On February 2nd, King County Executive Ron Sims posted a statement on the county website regarding his appointment to HUD, and calling for a "caretaker" Executive to serve out the remainder of 2009.

I recommend Steve Hammond for that position.

To quote Sims, "This interim Executive should be a person of unquestioned experience, stature and integrity who has no intention of running in the November 2009 election. There are many in our community that could be trusted with such stewardship."
Steve Hammond is unquestionably the person for the job. He has all the qualifications suggested by Sims. He was a King County Councilmember. He understands the inner workings of the Council, the county, and has the commitment to take care of the business of the citizens of King County without a political agenda. He can get the job done with integrity and experience. He is a reasonable man who can work well with both council members and staff.

Ron Sims wants his replacement to come from the Legislature. We don't need an Olympia insider for this position. We need an Executive who wants what's best for King County, as well a relationship with those who represent us in Olympia. We need Steve Hammond.

Please join me in calling for Steve to step up for us and in insisting that the King County Council appoint the best person for the job, Steve Hammond.