It was the summer of 2020, and I had just stepped into my role as a newly appointed member of the Mukilteo City Council. That season was a whirlwind — I was learning the ropes of public service while launching my first campaign to retain the seat I had just been entrusted with.
As someone who’s always valued independence, I decided to run my campaign on my own rather than hiring a political consultant. Political insiders told me, “You need a consultant or a campaign manager.” But I’d already learned from experience — having run a countywide race in 2018 — that authenticity, not polish, is what connects with people. I knew how to win an election by doing what mattered most: showing up and listening.
So, I built my website, designed my own glossy two-sided brochure, and hit the streets. Day after day, I knocked on doors throughout Mukilteo, not just to share my vision, but to hear directly from the people who make our city what it is.
One afternoon, I came upon a nautically themed home — its clean lines and lighthouse charm caught my eye. It felt like a symbol of Mukilteo itself: proud, welcoming, and full of character. I knocked, prepared to deliver my quick campaign pitch and move on to the next house.
But this time, something different happened.
The door opened, and a kind-eyed woman greeted me with warmth. From the first few moments of conversation, I could tell she wasn’t just being polite — she was deeply engaged. She asked thoughtful, challenging questions about city issues and our shared future. What was supposed to be a two-minute doorstep exchange turned into a twenty-minute conversation about community, service, and values.
Her curiosity was matched only by her sincerity. When she told me she already knew who I was and appreciated the work I was doing, I was humbled. Before I left, she graciously allowed me to place a campaign sign in her yard. I walked away that day feeling grounded — reminded that this work isn’t about politics. It’s about people, and the meaningful connections that sustain our democracy.
That woman was Ilona Van Duser.
Since that day, Ilona and I have remained in touch. Over the years, I’ve watched her transform from an engaged resident to an active civic leader. When she began attending council meetings regularly, I sensed that same spark I’d seen on her front porch. Over coffee, she shared that she was nearing retirement and wanted to give more back to her city. I saw her potential immediately.
From then on, we met often — discussing city policy, the role of government, and the art of navigating public life with grace and integrity. Ilona absorbed information eagerly, asked wise questions, and always arrived at her own thoughtful conclusions. She didn’t just listen; she learned, she reflected, and she grew. I came to admire her deeply — her intellect, her compassion, and her sense of responsibility to the community she has called home for more than 25 years.
Today, Ilona Van Duser stands as a candidate for Mukilteo City Council, Position 1 — and I couldn’t be prouder to support her.
She represents everything we should want in a public servant: humility, courage, patience, and wisdom. She approaches problems with a calm, analytical mind and listens with genuine care before making decisions. She shows up, consistently, for the people of Mukilteo — not for recognition, but because she truly loves this city.
That’s why I am wholeheartedly endorsing Ilona Van Duser for Mukilteo City Council, Position 1.
I believe in her vision, her integrity, and her heart for service. Ilona embodies the kind of leadership that builds trust and bridges divides — leadership that listens before it speaks and acts with the community in mind.
I invite every resident of Mukilteo to join me in supporting Ilona. Let’s ensure our council continues to reflect the diverse voices, compassion, and shared values that make our city shine. Please vote for Ilona Van Duser for Mukilteo City Council.
Louis Harris, Mukilteo City Councilman, Position 1
COMMENTARY DISCLAIMER: The views and comments expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lynnwood Times nor any of its affiliates.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
