The incumbent mayor and his supporters have cited his experience in office as a reason to vote for him. Following his initial appointment to council, he served four years on city council during which time he nominated himself for a two-year stint as council president. With only four years of council experience, he ran for mayor in November 2015, winning against an unseasoned candidate.

Shannon Williamson has served six years on city council, four of those as council president. She is now ready to put that experience and knowledge to work in the mayor’s office.

Audacious truly describes the writers who have suggested that Shannon drop out of the race even while some privately acknowledge she is the better candidate of the two. They are afraid a split vote will elect Ken Lawrence.

It’s a nonpartisan position. There could be a dozen candidates running. Who could be so presumptive as to suggest who should or shouldn’t run? That decision is made when ballots are cast. Anyone who thinks Shannon’s supporters would vote for Rognstad if she were not on the ballot, are fooling themselves.

As Sandpoint’s city clerk for 24 years, I worked with seven different mayors. The three best of them had no experience on city council. They were smart, ethical, and used common sense to solve problems — traits I feel Shannon shares.

Shannon is committed to representing everyone, not just those who hold views identical to hers. Elect Shannon Williamson, mayor, on Nov. 5.

HELEN NEWTON

Sandpoint