Kelley O’Connor to run for the 2nd County Council Position in the November General Election

 

Kelly O’Connor Candidate for County Council District 2

Elected Experience: Not a career politician.

Other Professional Experience:

Current: 10 years serving Whatcom County in emergency medicine as a Firefighter/EMT, and dispatcher. Past: United States Track and Field Level 1 Coach, Junior Olympics Team Development Program.

Education:

Bachelor’s of Science in Healthcare Management and Leadership, Bellevue College Premed coursework for Physician’s Assistant graduate program.

AAS Degree, 6 Time National All-American Student Athlete at Central Arizona College

FEMA, Incident Management, MPIC Certifications

Community Service:

VP of Fundraising for Parkview Elementary School

Volunteer Firefighter/EMT Whatcom County District 14

Statement:

Whatcom County is changing. We need respectful representatives who can and will create solutions for our diverse population.

I have never been political, but as a working mother and full-time student in Bellingham, I am empathetic to the current challenges within our community. Rising home prices and limited childcare are persistent hurdles that impede upward mobility and make Whatcom County inaccessible to many families. Nobody should be squeezed out because of poor leadership and lack of vision.

After a decade of service in emergency medicine, I have personally witnessed deficits in the county’s crisis management infrastructure. The lack of adequate mental health resources has resulted in poor patient outcomes as well as overextended and costly emergency and judicial systems. The Council acting as the Health Board currently lacks members with knowledge in healthcare, emergency response, or incident management operations.

Let us reduce tension and conflict by respecting each other so we can have conversations that promote unified action in solving our problems together. An important component of great leadership is showing respect and listening to everyone.  I am running for Council because I believe in our community and know there is a better way to work together.  I support our teachers, healthcare workers, and organized labor.  I support sustainable strategies that preserve our natural resources.  I remain an avid runner, equestrian, and outdoor enthusiast here in the County where I adventure with my daughter daily.  I would appreciate your vote.

https://www.facebook.com/VoteKelleyOConnor