I've always believed that the best way to make an informed decision is to hear directly from the people asking for your vote.In this episode of On the Record™, I sit down with Michelle Gipson, who is running for Thurston County Commissioner, for a long-form conversation about her life, leadership, and vision for Thurston County.Michelle shares her journey from immigrating from Jamaica to building a life in Thurston County, raising a family, serving on the North Thurston Public Schools Board of Directors, and working in nonprofit leadership. We also discuss housing affordability, homelessness, county budgeting, public safety, environmental stewardship, leadership, and what she hopes to accomplish if elected.My goal with On the Record™ isn't to tell you who to vote for. My goal is to create a space where candidates can have real conversations so voters can hear directly from them and make their own informed decisions.In this episode we discuss:Michelle's journey from Jamaica to Thurston CountyHer background in nonprofit leadership and public serviceServing on the North Thurston School BoardHousing affordability and homelessnessCounty budgeting and difficult leadership decisionsPublic safety and county governmentEnvironmental concerns and responsible growthLeadership philosophyWhy she's running for Thurston County CommissionerEvery candidate on the ballot for this office was offered the same opportunity to participate in On the Record™.If you enjoy these conversations, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share this episode. An informed community starts with informed conversations.Connect with Michelle Gipsonhttps://www.michellegipson.com