Issues & Priorities
Mason County faces real challenges that demand honest, well-informed leadership. Karen Sullivan has studied these issues carefully and brings a financial professional's rigor to every one of them. Click on any issue below to read her detailed position and proposals.
Public Safety
Mason County's sheriff's office operates with just 0.87 deputies per 1,000 residents — well below the state and national average. Karen will work to address critical staffing shortages, strengthen MACECOM 911 dispatch, and ensure our emergency services can protect every corner of the county's 1,051 square miles.
Only 5-7 deputies cover the entire county at any given time
Housing & Homelessness
With median home values at $432,400 and rental vacancy near zero, Mason County families are being priced out. Karen supports a balanced approach: removing barriers to new construction, supporting workforce housing programs, and funding proven homelessness interventions — without driving up costs for existing residents.
28% of residents are housing cost-burdened
Infrastructure & Broadband
Nearly half of Mason County homes still lack fiber broadband, and our roads and bridges need sustained investment. Karen will champion broadband expansion through Mason PUD 3 partnerships, pursue state and federal infrastructure grants, and prioritize the road maintenance projects that keep our communities connected.
51.4% of homes have fiber — nearly half still don't
Fiscal Responsibility
As a financial advisor, Karen knows that every public dollar comes from a neighbor's paycheck. She will bring professional financial discipline to the county's $184 million budget — transparent reporting, long-range planning, and the courage to make tough budget decisions based on data rather than politics.
$184 million total county budget demands careful stewardship
Economic Growth & Jobs
Mason County's unemployment rate of 6.2% exceeds both the state and national averages. With government accounting for one-third of all jobs, we need to diversify. Karen will support the Economic Development Council, address the childcare shortage that blocks workforce participation, and create conditions for small businesses to thrive.
6.2% unemployment — above state and national averages
Environment & Conservation
Hood Canal's dissolved oxygen levels have plummeted, threatening marine life and the shellfish economy. Over 26,000 aging septic systems contribute to water quality problems. Karen supports science-based environmental protection, salmon recovery partnerships, and practical solutions to the septic system crisis.
26,000+ onsite sewage systems, many 20+ years old
Growth Management
Mason County recently adopted its 2025-2045 Comprehensive Plan, but implementation is where the real work begins. With development pressure increasing from the Puget Sound metro area, Karen will ensure growth is managed responsibly — protecting rural character while providing infrastructure for communities like Belfair that are poised to grow.
New Comprehensive Plan covers 2025-2045 — implementation is key
Health
Mason County has just one primary care physician for every 3,590 residents — three times worse than the state average. Karen will advocate for expanded healthcare access, mental health services, and support for the rural hospitals and clinics that serve our community.
3,590:1 patient-to-physician ratio vs. 1,180:1 statewide
Cross-Cutting Themes
These principles apply to every issue Karen will tackle as commissioner.
Fiscal Discipline in Every Decision
Every policy proposal Karen supports must answer the question: how do we pay for it? With DNR timber revenue under threat and service demands growing, the next commissioner cannot afford to make promises without a plan. Karen's financial background ensures that budget realities are part of every conversation.
Tribal Partnership
The Squaxin Island Tribe and Skokomish Indian Tribe are Mason County's largest employers and essential partners in everything from economic development to salmon recovery. Karen is committed to strengthening these cooperative relationships.
Data-Driven Decisions
Karen believes that good policy starts with good data. She will ensure that county decisions are informed by current research, community input, and transparent analysis — not political pressure or outdated assumptions.
Want to Discuss These Issues?
Karen wants to hear your perspective on the challenges facing Mason County. Reach out, attend a community event, or share your thoughts on what matters most.
Paid for by Committee for Karen Sullivan District 3