Conrad Lee is making Bellevue a better place, every day and for the last 16 years as one of Bellevue’s hardest working City Council members. This is not a political promise but a proven record of accomplishment.

Conrad and I first met on a Bellevue transportation committee in 1990 – and both of us served eight years on Bellevue’s Transportation Commission before Mr. Lee was elected to his first term on the City Council. This experience is what – in this economy – we must have.

With tax revenues steadily declining, we must retain those who have extensive budget experience and those who have “held the line” on property tax increases in our city. As a 25-year Bellevue taxpayer and a commercial Realtor who understands property values, the diligent work of Mr. Lee and the council has resulted in Bellevue citizens enjoying one of the lowest and fairest tax bases in the region.

On the light rail controversy Mr. Lee’s position is that when light rail does come to the Eastside we have to do it right the “first time,” as there will be no second chance. There can be no question that this position is the most prudent and cost effective approach for Bellevue’s citizens.

His opponent for Position 2 has inaccurately stated that he opposes light rail – and I, for one, know this to be untrue, as Mr. Lee’s position is based on continuing input from our citizens and, most importantly, stringent oversight of both the process and ultimate costs.

Without a doubt, the citizens of Bellevue must keep this committed, experienced public servant on Bellevue’s City Council. He continues to be a proven advocate for our citizens, our neighborhoods – and our community. The “best candidate” for Position 2 is already serving us – Conrad Lee. At this critical time, experience does count!

David M. Elliott, Bellevue