Election forum 5 p.m. today

Today, April 27, at 5 p.m Shelter Bay Community residents can attend a Zoom candidates forum to evaluate seven candidates running to fill three positions on their board of directors. Elections are May 21, during the annual membership meeting.

Board members have been criticized for their decisions to protect Director Steve Swigert after he clearcut trees in the community’s Rainbow Park in September 2020, improving his property’s view of the Swinomish Channel. The board paid the Swinomish Tribe a $92,513 fine and penalty after indemnifying him.

Running for reelection is Louise Kari. challengers are Nancy Shimeall, Dan McCaughan, Stu Gustafson, Brad Vorhees, Judy Kontos and Joe Harper. The three highest vote getters win.

The Rainbow Action Committee, a residents’ group, is insisting on accountability, members emailed the Weekly News. The group has organized to educate the community and replace board members. They may host a forum, too.

The elected board members take their positions July 1.