To the Editor:
I have known Jennifer Swanson for 20 years. She is a thoughtful, inclusive leader who brings people with diverse opinions together to find solutions.
Jennifer has a proven record of public service and strong relationships throughout the county. She served 11 years on the school board and later led as superintendent through COVID. During that challenging time, she balanced the needs of students, teachers, staff, families and the broader community, making difficult decisions amid competing priorities. She did so with grace, confidence and compassion.
Jennifer continues to champion islanders’ needs as chair of the ferry advisory committee. As co-founder of the Shaw Island Community Land Trust, she worked with established land-trust leaders to address affordable housing. She also serves on the teacher housing finance committee and library educational committee, substitutes at the school and is a graduate of Leadership San Juans.
Recognizing the importance of connection, Jennifer established Brown Bag Lunches to bring islanders together for informal conversations. These gatherings create space for mutual respect, understanding and collaboration before problems arise.
Throughout her campaign, Jennifer has listened and learned across all the islands, meeting with residents, county employees and stakeholders and attending county council meetings. She is committed to a positive campaign and to hearing the concerns of the people she hopes to represent.
Jennifer is kind and conscientious, willing to make difficult decisions while seeking long-term solutions. She is committed to representing the entire district and remaining accessible to its communities.
I am confident Jennifer will bring thoughtfulness, compassion and a collaborative spirit to county leadership as she helps navigate the choppy waters ahead. Vote for Jennifer for San Juan County council.
—Amber Borner, Shaw Island; Oct. 12, 2026