Marshall running for re-election for county commisioner

RITZVILLE – John N. Marshall is running for re-election as Adams County Commissioner District No. 1.

Marshall, who has made Ritzville his home since 1985, has been in the position for two terms, almost eight years. He said he is running because he does not want to leave the county without experienced leadership. With one commissioner about to retire and another one in office just two years, Marshall said he feels an obligation to stay, in order to maintain some continuity.

"The COVID-19 pandemic accentuates the need for continuity of leadership as your commissioners are taking every possible step to safeguard every citizen of Adams County, while preserving our economy and quality of life," Marshall said.

Marshall said accomplishments over the last eight years are significant.

He said accomplishments include raising wages to competitive levels for courthouse, public works and sheriff's department employees.

"I have successfully attracted three major economic development projects that will generate nearly $4 million in new tax revenue by 2022," Marshall said. Those include the McCain USA expansion in Othello; and the Adams-Nielsen Solar Farm in Lind and Rattlesnake Flat Wind Farm which will generate much-needed tax revenue.

"These funds will support local schools, hospitals, parks and recreation, roads, fire departments, and emergency medical services," Marshall said.

He said many road and safety improvements have been done, including work on Hills, Marcellus and Deal Roads; Hartwig Crossing and Hooper Store bridges and the roundabout at Bob's Corner.

During his service, Adams County passed the Law and Justice Sales Tax, making it possible to hire two new road deputies, plus additional jailers and dispatchers.

"I have been an active member of the Washington State Association of Counties, advocating for Adams County and all its communities, and lobbying state legislators in Olympia on your behalf. This effort helped bring more than $40 million to Adams County for water and irrigation projects," Marshall said.

Locally, he serves on the Eastern Washington Council of Governments, Columbia River Caucus, Adams County Development Council, Aging and Adult Care, Parents Against Illegal Drugs and Adams County Mosquito Control Board. He is the chairman of the Quadco Transportation Board.

"I'm very proud of the things I've done while I've been commissioner, even the small things. I've raised the county's donations to the three senior centers from $2,500 to $12,500 yearly. And I've raised the county's donation to Adams County Pet Rescue to $50,000 per year," Marshall said.

"I encouraged and supported the $100,000 donation to the new fabrication lab at Big Bend Community College, as the school supports all of Adams County. I've testified in front of the UTC (Utility and Transportation Commission) about utility rates. I testified in front of Washington State Parks about property owner rights and have testified in front of Washington State legislative committees about rural broadband, marijuana, revenue and water."