Karl Wilkinson (R)

Personal

Married, six children. Lifelong resident of Spokane County. Longtime Boy Scout leader.

Employment

Marine Corps, 1968-89. Schoolteacher in East Valley School District, 1974-78. Realtor, 1978 to present (currently general sales manager at Janek Co. of Spokane). Professional mediator, 1996 to present.

Education

Bachelor of arts degree in education, Eastern Washington University.

Political history

Served on East Valley School Board for 15 years.

Issues

Bring accountability, predictability and balance to county government. Create incentives to encourage responsible growth. Streamline building permit process. Improve morale among county staff. Open communication between county and city government and other local jurisdictions. Establish a task force on child abuse prevention.

Finances

Raised about $59,000 through Sept. 13, including $12,000 from Marsha and Bernard Daines and $10,000 in cash and in-kind contributions from the Spokane Home Builders Association.

Quote

“I don’t get passionate about roads. Roads are important, of course, but it’s much easier for me to get passionate about people. Teach people the correct principles and let them govern themselves. Give them the tools they need, let them know they’re going to be held accountable, then let them go to it.”