I have spent 18 years on the Redmond City Council and during that time I have come to realize just how critical the relationship between state government and local government really is. Virtually all powers of cities in Washington are derived from the state legislature.

Because of that relationship it is critical we have legislators who are true partners with cities in their districts. We are very fortunate in the 45th Legislative District to have Rep. Larry Springer, who has built a 10-year career in Olympia as a true champion for Washington’s cities. Maybe that is because Larry spent 11 years on the Kirkland City Council and four years as Kirkland’s Mayor. He clearly understands the struggles cities have faced the last several years and has been relentless in his support for increased revenue sharing between the state and local governments.

That is why Larry is endorsed by the mayors of Redmond, Sammamish, Woodinville, Kirkland and the Mayor Pro Tempore of Duvall.

Larry’s willingness to work across the political aisle is a skill most legislators say they have but few do.

You have only to look to the Seattle Times fifth consecutive endorsement of his campaign to realize they have recognized this all too rare trait.

”Springer’s deliberate style should be model of legislative demeanor. He has earned respect among Democratic and Republican colleagues in Olympia,” stated the Seattle Times in its endorsement.

Let’s re-elect Larry Springer who truly understands the issues facing cities all across Washington State.

Pat Vaché, Redmond