[October 15th, 2008]

Carla Piluso

A career cop with a heart or a dealmaker who’s adept on the local economy? We’re giddy that East Multnomah County can choose between two qualified candidates, and that both are strong women who would bring proven skills to the board.

Their experience and enthusiasm are refreshing after eight years under Commissioner Lonnie Roberts, infamous for his lackadaisical work ethic and chummy nonchalance. Thankfully, Roberts is term-limited into retirement.

In the race to replace him, we give the nod to Gresham Police Chief Carla Piluso over Diane McKeel, executive director of the West Columbia Gorge Chamber of Commerce.

Piluso is a 29-year cop who’s also served for 12 years on the board of Human Solutions, a nonprofit that works with the homeless. She has experience that nicely dovetails with the county’s two main missions—running jails and providing social services.

McKeel’s campaign snagged an impressive list of endorsements. But at the top of that list is Roberts, whom McKeel says has “worked very hard for East County.” Really? Where Roberts failed to close the deal on legacy projects like a library in Troutdale and an East County Justice Center, Piluso’s skill set gives her the best chance to finish the job.

Video of WW endorsement interview (thanks to Portland Community Media)