In the upcoming primary and general election, we need to perform our duty by voting for candidates who have the experience and the will to serve the changing and growing needs of our community. Simply checking a box and re-electing an incumbent is not always the best choice. I urge you to vote for Ramiro Valderrama for 45th Legislative District State House of Representatives.

In Olympia, he will deliver the knowledge, experience and ideas that he has successfully demonstrated to address some of our most important needs in:

Growth and environment balance: Our communities are growing very fast. It is time for Olympia to take a full review of the Growth Management Act (GMA) The GMA was written before newer cities began their rapid growth. Among the needs is that the GMA does not take into account the infrastructure and service deficit.

He also knows that we need to make sure we are also sensible to the environment while also protecting property owners. What it comes down to is “sustainable growth.” Growing our cities while being respectful to our environment and property owners.

Education: He believes in education choices for the children in the district. Eighty percent of our district voted for charter schools. He knows that there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to learning, we need to build upon the pupil’s strength.

Transportation: He believes that the 405 tolls are regressive and hinders true movement. He would work to eliminate those. He knows how smaller communities also need to develop cost effective and efficient local mass transportation

Please make sure you vote Valderrama — for our future.

Mike Grady

Sammamish