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“He’s also a great dancer…but that’s my husband.”~ Amber Paulsen, Orcas Island
“Justin played a major role in the recent success of obtaining emergency funding for ferry service in the islands. He is clearly a team player who is willing to work the long haul for the citizens of this County. There is nothing flashy about Justin. He is simply a solid, hard-working family man who cares about community and public service.”~ Rhea Miller, Lopez Island | Former Council-Member
“We are so impressed with the hard work Justin has done for the County as chair of the Ferry Advisory Group working with the County Commission to get us to a point where the State has finally acknowledged the seriousness of the transportation woes faced by our islands and made $1.5 million dollars available to create an interim solution.Justin has also been a member of the group that brought us the invaluable water taxi service to save the day when the ferries go down.”~ Pegi Groundwater and Micheal Moss, Orcas Island
“Justin Paulsen has shown a thoughtful, respectful approach to preparing for this position. Justin will also bring authenticity, critical thinking, and a record of community service to the role. We endorse Justin Paulsen and believe he is the right choice to take San Juan County into the future.”
~ Current County Councilwomen Cindy Wolf & Christine Minney
“I’ve known Justin since he arrived in 2003 to help OPAL build affordable homes and workplaces on Orcas. Over the years, I’ve seen his deep dedication to our community, especially his commitment to helping those with little voice or influence.His broad-based, effective, and consistent work in our community helped him win the primaries on Orcas with the overwhelming support of the islanders who know him best.”~ Brian Ehrmantraut, Orcas Island
“Housing and wealth inequality are the areas I’m most passionate about. Justin Paulsen has a strong understanding of these challenges. Since I moved to the islands 4 years ago, Justin’s commitment to working on housing and supporting the working class has been apparent to me. As time has gone one he has demonstrated a strong unders of how these areas intersect with other issues such as climate change. I’m grateful for Justin’s clear critical thinking abilities and the way he takes things issue by issue. It’s time for the team sports in politics to stop, and I’m excited about a candidate that is so clearly capable of working with folks of all beliefs and backgrounds. Justin is the kind of candidate our community needs and I’m excited to endorse him.”
~ Amanda Lynn, San Juan Island
“The members of Orcas Tenants United believe that the best candidate to lead us into a more equitable, liveable future is Justin Paulsen, and we are excited to endorse him for the Seat #2 position in the upcoming election. Justin has proven himself as an advocate for working class people and the housing insecure. He really listens to the issues, and answers with honesty and humanity, a rare trait to find in a candidate running for office.”
~ Orcas Tenants United
“Justin has a long history of caring for and working diligently for the island community. His dedication to Orcas speaks for itself in his work with OPAL Community Land Trust, coaching youth sports, as a Park and Recreation Commissioner, Ferry Advisory Chair, and as a father and husband. I deeply appreciate Justin’s willingness to understand the many complex and necessary questions facing San Juan County right now.”~ Katherine Bryant Ingman Lopez Island
“Justin Paulsen has my full support in this November’s election for seat #2 on the San Juan County Council. I’ve known Justin for nearly 20 years and admire his tireless service to community as a builder, as a parent, as a coach, as an advocate for youth, as an Orcas Park & Recreation Commissioner and especially as a member of the Ferry Advisory Committee during this difficult chapter of ferry anxiety.”~ Suzanne Olsen, Orcas Island
“Governance is fundamentally about caring for people in a way that upholds their rights, promotes their well-being, and fosters a sense of community and belonging. At the core of effective governance lies a commitment to serving the needs of our community, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities, and safeguarding the dignity and rights of every individual. It means prioritizing the most vulnerable and marginalized folks, listening to their voices, and working towards solutions that promote inclusivity and equity. This is Justin Paulsen at his core.”~ Ed Andrews, Orcas Island
“Yes yes yes and YES! This amazing man has been such a light in my life all throughout my years growing up. He has received many texts and calls from me over the years — very out of the blue on how to get things done on the island. Whether it be where to buy wood, who to contact for Pride fundraising, when I have had ideas for events that need some grown up thinking behind them. He has always been there. He is an incredible advocate for affordable housing on the island, and early education. I trust Justin and his leadership, because I feel safe when he is around.”
~ Adia Hope Acacia Dolan, Orcas Island
“Trust (Justin is most supported by those who know him and the other candidate). Willingness to listen and work with two opposing sides to find common ground. Effective leadership in public service (e.g. his role in helping to get more funding for our local ferry service than originally planned).”
~ Chom Greacen, Lopez Island
“knowledgeable, authentic, compassionate”
~ Chris Greacen, Lopez Island
“…I believe my former colleagues deserve a champion. I hope you will join me in support of Justin’s candidacy.”
~ Ingrid Gabriel, San Juan County Council Clerk for 14 years, Now Retired
“Justin is a father, grandfather, foster parent, small business owner, builder, volunteer and public servant. He is a doer and an active problem solver. Justin not only built scores of OPAL homes, but he rolled up his sleeves and helped OPAL figure out how to bring costs down and still deliver a beautiful, quality home for local homebuyers.”
~ Julie Brunner, Orcas Island
“First, he has shown me repeatedly and increasingly, an ability to remain passionate about his ideas while trying to improve them by sincerely listening to others. Second, he has rich and diverse lived experience — as a foster parent and child advocate, in the service and construction industries from entry level to leadership, as an effective volunteer in vexing and critical areas such as housing, transportation, and addiction recovery. This lived experience anchors him and his values and it brings credibility to his policy proposals.”~ Jim Connell, Formerly of Orcas Island
“Through my business, I have been fortunate to work and meet with Justin Paulsen. Justin’s work at the state and local level on behalf of our community has brought significant attention and resources to San Juan County. I know Justin and his family to be active and engaged members of our agricultural community and supporters of 4H. They have dedicated their service to organizations that support and uplift working families across our entire county.”
~ Dr. Blake Guard, Guardian Veterinary Hospital, San Juan Island
“Justin Paulsen’s victory in the primary election on Orcas Island was by 9.5%. I trust my Orcas Island friends and neighbors who know these two local candidates best. I hope others will take the time to learn more about Justin Paulsen and not just vote for someone from the past because of name recognition. Our county government needs to be forward-thinking, not backward. We need creative, hard-working and community-minded county council members and I feel Justin embodies these qualities and more!”~ Debbi Fincher, San Juan Island
“I have been to several public meetings regarding big problems caused by a broken San Juan County Permit center. Justin got my attention when he spoke at these meetings. He is articulate, thoughtful, informed and energetic. I believe Justin would make an outstanding county councilor. He listens to various points of view and I believe his experience as a general contractor in these islands will be a great asset in county government. Justin has credible ‘skin in the game'”~ Mike Carlson, San Juan Island
“We need Justin’s fresh eyes plus depth of experience on the County Council!”
~ Greg Oaksen, Orcas Island
“One of the pressing issues facing our community has been the challenges with our ferry system. Justin has been a steadfast advocate, tirelessly working to ensure that our islands’ concerns are heard and addressed. His advocacy is a testament to his dedication and effectiveness as a representative for our community.”
~ Chelsie Guilford, Orcas Island
“I support Justin because we need a Council person who understands the needs of the residents of San Juan County and will stand up for their needs.”
~ Micheal Durland, Orcas Island
“Goooo Justin!!!! We are behind you !!!”
~ Rochelle and Cory Severson
“In addition to Justin’s public service, his wife, family, and household serve as a foundation of community, public service, and philanthropy. I am honored to know Justin Paulsen and to have his love, support, and care for myself and my family.”
~ Darrell Kirk, Orcas Island
“In my many years on island, I’ve observed Justin step up when the community is in need. He has made time for this even with a full and demanding life, never asking for recognition.”
~ Carol Anderson, Orcas Island
“Having known Justin and his family for almost as long as he has been on Orcas, I’ve always been impressed with their dedication to a cause ,their integrity, and community commitment.”
~ Jay Fowler, Orcas Island
“Justin has proven himself and his commitment to this community on so many levels for over two decades. I know him to be forthright, caring, always learning, open minded, realistic, a creative thinker, a good listener, a collaborator, and someone who walks his talk and can dialogue with many different kinds of people. He knows land use, government, and he knows the wide range of issues affecting our island communities. I don’t know how he juggles so many balls in the air, but I’m certain he is the best person for Council seat 2, and that he will do all he can to help our unique Island communities keep our middle class, rural character, and the quality of life that we want for islanders for generations to come. He doesn’t take things personally, which is a good trait for someone in a local government position. I feel he’s in the race for all the right reasons. I’m happy to add my name to the list of his supporters.”
~ B. Sadie Bailey, Orcas Island
“I recently served with Justin on the Ferry Advisory Committee and was continually impressed with his knowledge of and level of urgency for our vital ferry service. He is also very well acquainted with the many other issues confronting us.”
~ Howie Rosenfeld, San Juan Island | Former Council-Member, Former FAC Chair
“I am happy to support Justin Paulsen for County Council. I have known him for over 20 years. He cares deeply for this community and those in it. He is constantly looking for ways to show that support from coaching youth sports to voicing concerns on the ferry advisory board to leading fundraising for at risk kids in our community and abroad. He always seems up for a well educated, civil and productive political debate. I am confident he will take each of our causes to heart and accurately represent our community. I fully support his run for San Juan County Council.”
~ Shannon Rishel, San Juan Island
“We need leaders like Justin who will work to address the problems we face today, like transportation and affordable housing, while never losing sight of why we love the islands and focusing on what we need to protect and strengthen for the future.”
~ Pegi Groundwater, Orcas Island
“Justin shows up. I’ve known Justin for years but it was through coaching basketball together that we really became friends. There are the more public aspects such as doing whatever needed to be done for the community during covid, his long time involvement in sports and OIPRD or working tirelessly to find a solution to ferry issues last fall during the fair which ultimately lead to the creation of the water taxi service (and hopefully a more expanded community offering at some point). What goes unseen is the things done every day. I have no idea where he finds the time for everything but I’ve never heard him say no if asked for help. From helping the community during freezes and frozen pipes to lending a hand whenever needed. For the past few years he has served on the Ferry Advisory Committee and worked tirelessly to advocate for our “highway”. Justin will be a great addition at the county level and I have no doubt he’ll bring that same level of commitment, energy and knowledge to this position as well.”
~ Mike Connell, Orcas Island
“Justin has been a thoughtful and proactive ferry advisory committee member and strong advocate on the WSF Schedule Task Force. He listens well, searches for a wide variety of input and is kind!”
~ Katherine Bryant Ingman, Lopez Island
“I’m supporting Justin Paulsen for SJC Council. Justin is communicative and has represented us well in positions serving the residents of our county. Justin is open to hearing ideas from all voices. He especially wants efficient and effective government for the needs of the people who live on Orcas year round.”
~ Neris Palunas, Orcas Island
“My husband and I are supporting Paulsen for County Commissioner. Great ideas—gets things done—lots of community involvement.”
~ Janet and Richard Wright, San Juan Island
“I know Justin as a tireless community advocate, who’s past actions have brought many positive changes to our community. Easily approachable, a good listener, critical thinker and generator of practical ideas. With our joint volunteer work at Community Water Taxi, he has proven invaluable with complex issues, the hard realities of resources, and wise political insights to make serious progress and proposals. He is engaged in all economic strata of our community and can represent the average citizen in a uniquely powerful way.
For someone not in government (yet), I don’t know anyone who knows as much about how government works and how to get things done as Justin Paulsen. Your vote is well spent in his direction.”
~ Thomas Bridge, Crane Island
“As someone who has taught technical team management at the UW, I am especially sensitive to leadership style and substance and Justin succeeds quite well in a natural and easy-going manner.”
~ David Robison, San Juan Island
“Justin is my go to in a crisis person. I’ve had both his sons in my class and every time something is needed, Justin is there. Need a driver? There he is! Pipes burst in the classroom on Christmas break during Covid (while he had Covid!) clear everyone out and he is there with fans and water vacuums. Not all students can pay for field trip, Justin and Amber pick up the slack! Can’t get a reservation for the bus off island, Justin’s on the phone trying to make reservations. Justin has been invaluable as a parent and now as a friend. I so appreciate his work on ferries, youth sports, playground rebuild, fixing everything and lately making breakfast for my whole class during a sleepover. This man is amazing and I am lucky to call him friend! He will work as hard for our island as he does for everything else!! He has my vote!!!”
~ Shannon Quishenberry, Orcas Island
“I’m glad Justin is running for Council this election cycle, and I think he’s the best candidate for this incredibly important position. Justin and his family have a great sense of the challenges working island families face, and he’s the best candidate to help meet those challenges. His work chairing the Ferry Advisory Committee has produced meaningful results in a very difficult situation, and he and his family have been incredible advocates for the working class for numerous years. I believe he’ll continue to be an excellent advocate as a Councilman.”
~ David Gaible, Orcas Island
“Justin has a sharp 10,000 foot perspective on our county as well as a good boots-on-the-ground view. I found his ideas and his listening skills to be excellent. He gets my support.”
~ Joseph Greene, Lopez Island
“I was so happy to hear that Justin was running for council. Justin takes the time to understand all sides of an issue before making a decision. He openly shares these learnings with the community so we can all better understand. Over the years, he has tirelessly worked to help improve the lives of islanders by stepping up to work with WSF along with other community issues. I strongly support Justin Paulsen for San Juan County Council Seat #2.”
~ Jenice Meek, Orcas Island
“I am pleased to offer my full support for Justin Paulsen for County Council seat #2. As a small business owner, community member, and parent, Justin’s dedication to our island community is unmatched. His involvement in various committees, community initiatives and volunteering in numerous organizations showcases his engagement and commitment to serving the people of San Juan County. Justin’s leadership skills are evident in his innate ability to listen, bringing people from diverse perspectives together to find solutions to critical issues facing our community. His passion for preserving our environment, supporting our working-class foundation, and ensuring a bright future for our children is exactly what we need in a County Councilperson. Common challenges such as transportation, housing, medical access, education, childcare, and alternative energy, Justin has proven time and time again that he is dedicated to representing the voices of all islanders. His track record of service and his ability to engage with the community make him the ideal candidate for County Council. I encourage you to join me in supporting Justin in the upcoming election. Together, we can make San Juan County an even better place for all residents.”
~ Clark Cundy, Orcas Island
“Justin, this letter is to you really as well as to the community. I believe you are the best candidate for Orcas County Council representative. Since you are not a new islander (here since 2003) I believe you have the best understanding of what Orcas and its population need. In listening to the last candidate interviews at the Senior Center I was struck by your in-depth understanding and knowledge of the considerations and questions that are in need of attention for Orcas and for San Juan County. These considerations include preparations for clean water sources and future electricity needs opined recently by OPALCO. I was also impressed with your concern for all of our residents through your involvement daily in volunteer opportunities. Your website is informative as to past and present goals that you have reached and those that you would like to accomplish in the future. I would personally feel very comfortable with you as our county council person, including the promise of a more open communication with our communities.”
~ Joanne Cundy, Orcas Island
“I’ve known Justin for more than 20 years and have seen his drive, dedication, openness, integrity and decency spread from his business and family interests to those of our entire community from running the equestrian events at the County Fair, to commissioner of Parks and Recreation, to sitting on the Board of Orcas Family Health and to chairing the Ferry Advisory Committee. If you haven’t met Justin yet, you are in for a treat as you get to know him. His service as a Councilor will set a standard for community service that will not be surpassed. I most strongly endorse Justin Paulsen for the position of Councilor, Seat 2.”
~ David Meek, Orcas Island
“When I was sitting in Government class back in high school, I had a rose-colored picture in my head of what a representative would be. Someone authentic, compassionate, and knowledgeable, with their finger on the pulse of the community they serve. Someone I could turn to and count on to track down answers and initiate positive change. That is Justin Paulsen to me, without a doubt.”
~ Rebecca McDowell, Orcas Island
“The first time I heard Justin Paulsen speak, I was thoroughly impressed with his ideas, his dedication to the working families of these islands, and his extensive community-minded engagement in working towards solutions to our County issues. His idea to have 5 or so pre-approved stock ADU building plans for quick permitting = Brilliant! His work as the Ferry Advisory Committee Chair and on the Community Water Taxi Initiative = True Leader. What comes through when I hear and read his words = Generosity, Authenticity, and Integrity. If you’re on the fence of who to vote for SJCC #2 council member, fill in the block next to Justin’s name.”
~ Stephanie Prima, San Juan Island
“He has the skills. He walks the talk. He considers all opinions before making a decision.”
~ Sandy Playa, San Juan Island
“The man we need for the rough times ahead.”
~ Winnie Adams, Orcas/Waldron Island
“By far the best person for the job”
~ Bob Gamble, Orcas/Waldron Island
“I appreciate his commitment to solutions for issues affecting all islanders, including transportation and building.”
~ Rebecca Gamble, Orcas/Waldron Island
“I have seen how hard Justin works for the coummunity, empowered only as a citizen. I can’t wait for him to be my representative on Council. Justin will take us from the path we’re on, to the path we SHOULD be on with care and respect for all islands and islanders.”
~ Keith Light, Orcas Island
~ Andrea Cohen, Orcas Island
~ Nancy Greene, Lopez Island
~ Dianna Hoffman, Orcas Island
~ Dawn Light, Orcas Island
~ Darcy Miller, Orcas Island
~ Allan Rosato, Orcas Island
~ Marsha Segualt, Orcas Island
~ Stephen Schrader, Orcas Island
~ Jamie Stephens, Former County Councilman, Lopez Island
~ Andy Wickstrand, Orcas Island
~ Ken Wood, Orcas Island
Justin is running, but it takes all of us to get him elected. If you feel compelled to help, contribute, or just give us some encouragement, please reach out to us!
Show your support for our campaign by giving Justin an endorsement and we’ll put it on the site.