As a third generation life-long resident of Renton, I have personally witnessed the growth and consequential impact on the community in which I live. In recent years it has become painfully evident that Renton has become the one remaining waterfront city that does not carry with it the pride or prestige that our neighboring waterfront communities are attributed with — Newcastle, Medina, Kirkland, Bellevue just to name a few. Strong evidence to this is our new glorious development next door to Coulon choosing to market itself as “Seattle Southport” with no reference to its actual location being Renton. I am guilty myself (when asked where I live) of saying “Kennydale” or “near the Seahawk training facility.” Lets face it folks, Renton no longer paints the picture we want it to.

Renton is in dire need of change and the only way we can achieve change is to change the individuals we choose to represent us. Casting a vote is no different than hiring an individual to perform a job. I understand that Diane Dobson may not be the popular vote from within the current administration. She ruffles feathers from time to time and she doesn’t always conform to modern political policy and expectations. Diane isn’t looking to take office because she’s looking to make friends or lay ground work for a personal agenda or career in politics. Diane is looking to take office because she has spent a lifetime contributing countless hours to making Renton a better, safer, prouder place to live. As a citizen, one can only do so much. Despite all the contributions she has made, it is our job to give her a bigger voice, which will only be heard from a position on the council.

So as I cast my vote (or choose to hire), I choose Diane Dobson. Her track record and endless achievements speak for itself. Diane has no ulterior motives, she doesn’t own a business in Renton, doesn’t need the support of City Hall to further any personal agenda. Her motive is to simply make Renton a place to live where every resident can proudly say, “I’m from RENTON,” not “Seattle Southport,” not “South of Newcastle” and not “Rent-non.” Make no mistake, Diane will not be distracted by other personal interests, running a business or raising children; she is at a point in her life that allows her the time to make this a full-time commitment that every citizen will benefit from. I hope you take this into consideration and join me in choosing the most qualified candidate for City Council Position 2.

Lisa LaValley-Leighton

Renton