MOSES LAKE - Grant County PUD Position 2 candidates Patti Paris

and Dale Walker discussed their qualifications at a public forum

Tuesday.

The candidates spoke for about 40 minutes. During the forum,

candidates laid out their differences for the public.

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MOSES LAKE - Grant County PUD Position 2 candidates Patti Paris and Dale Walker discussed their qualifications at a public forum Tuesday.

The candidates spoke for about 40 minutes. During the forum, candidates laid out their differences for the public.

Both candidates pointed out their experience with the PUD.

Paris highlighted her 10 years of experience in accounting. She has worked as a chief financial officer with Columbia Colstor for the past 10 years. Before that, she was an accountant at the PUD.

She said she believed her strong accounting background will help get the PUD's budget back on track.

"I was very involved in the fiber optic program, I have great insiders' knowledge on workings of the PUD system," she said.

Walker pointed to the numerous boards he served on in the past six years.

He is currently a member of the Grant County Planning Commission and serves on the Board of Directors of the Grant County Economic Development Council.

Both candidates shared different opinions when an audience member asked them how they planned to bring the commission board together to make sound decisions.

"Our commission board has been controversial throughout the 10 years I was with them. I think the only way we can bring the commission together is if we come to a consensus decision after we have considered diverse opinions," answered Paris.

Walker related his board membership experience to answer the question.

"After six years of experience, I've already established working with the commission. I will try to bring some calm to some of the sessions," said Walker.

While both candidates acknowledged their respect for the other running mate, one major difference between the candidates is the expansion of fiber optic access in Grant County.

Paris said she believes fiber optic expansion should be based on where the demand is greatest.

"Fiber optic costs a lot of money, and we should leave it to customers who want to pay for fiber optic," she said.

On the other hand, Walker discussed the idea of offering fiber optic for everyone.

"We have an obligation to serve all customers equally. Some people may have to pay for more depending where they live, but they deserve fiber optic too," said Walker.

But both candidates agree that the county is correct in investing in fiber optic.

Position two is currently held by Greg Hansen, who is not seeking re-election.