I read the recent article in the Redmond Reporter online at www.redmond-reporter.com regarding damage to my opponent’s signs and would like to set the record straight.

During my very first political campaign, Councilmember Richard Cole gave me some very good advice: NEVER touch an opponent’s sign, which my campaigns have heeded without exception.

As a recent newcomer to Redmond, and to the Pacific Northwest, my opponent may not have had the opportunity to see what our fall weather does to campaign signs, especially when they have been up for awhile.

I know I am carrying a small sledge hammer in my car to stay on top of putting mine back up. This fall, we have had wind, rain, hail and more wind — as well as enough sun to make the grass long enough for the city’s mowers to have made several passes this campaign season, mowing both grass and signs at the same time.

Like most of Redmond, I look forward to the night of Nov. 3 when my crew will fan out to remove my signs from our beautiful city within 48 hours.

All that being said, I think it is well past time to switch gears and have a robust discussion of the issues facing Redmond and who is best qualified and ready to lead.

This is a critical time in both the transportation and growth management and I am on the ground already doing that vital work. I renew my challenge to my opponent to engage in an open debate of the issues — any time, any place.

Kim Allen, Redmond City Councilmember, Position 4