I served as a citizen volunteer on the Development Standards Working Group which represented a cross-section of interests, all who worked hard for two years to develop a balanced and workable zoning regulation to replace the current interim zoning. Ed Tinsley always supported our efforts to develop regulations that were as fair as possible. Derek Brown has argued that zoning should not be used to protect the valley's water quality, that this is the responsibility of the state. His position would surprise county commissioners in Minnesota's lake country where they have used zoning for many years to establish setbacks from lakes and minimum lot sizes through zoning in an effort to protect water quality. Ed Tinsley has also proposed a septic system maintenance district to make sure that individual septic systems are operating properly in order to protect our ground water. This is a proven approach that has been effective all across the country. I am grateful for Ed Tinsley's efforts to protect the water quality of the Helena Valley aquifer through reasonable regulations. I hope county voters will agree that Ed Tinsley's foresight and leadership has earned him another term as county commissioner.

Dave Cole

6040 Ferry Drive