It's very difficult to express in 200 words how qualified I believe Kelli Linville is for the position of mayor of Bellingham.

For many years, when she was a state representative, I worked with her on the Department of Natural Resources landscape plan.

For those who don't remember, that was the state plan to clear cut and build logging roads on unstable slopes in our drinking water supply.

Together, with thousands of Bellingham residents, Kelli's sincere efforts and understanding helped pass two rounds of history-making legislation to preserve the Lake Whatcom watershed. I believe the legislation that stopped the Austin Creek timber sale never would have passed without her steadfast determination to do what her constituents asked of her.

Kelli also worked diligently with her constituents after the Olympic Pipeline disaster killed three young people. She supported our efforts to replace the Olympic Pipeline through Kulshan Middle School property. Olympic's smart pig testing failed and blew thousands of gallons of water onto the school yard.

Those are only two of the issues out of many she has supported in her political career.

Unlike many politicians, I believe she truly cares about the health and welfare of the people of Whatcom County. Vote for Kelli for mayor. She deserves your vote.

Linda Marrom

Bellingham