Lisa Byers, executive director of OPAL Community Land Trust, has filed to be a candidate for the San Juan County Council from District 2, Orcas and Waldron Islands. Byers’ decision to run for office after 17 years at the helm of OPAL is based on wanting to “help our community thrive into the future. I love Orcas and believe that I have the experience and perspective to serve the county well.”

“Lisa’s acumen and business sense have helped build OPAL from a novice nonprofit into a nationally preeminent provider of permanently affordable housing,” said Allen Smith, OPAL board president,”

Byers attributes her “balanced, pragmatic approach” to her experiences managing organizations whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities.

“My particular strength and satisfaction comes from crafting solutions that stand the test of time through inclusive, open and creative conversation,” she added.

Byers has a bachelor’s degree from Vassar College, and a Masters in Business Administration in public and nonprofit management from Boston University. She has lived on Orcas Island since 1994. Together with her partner, Laurie Gallo, she has helped raise two daughters, graduates of the Orcas Island School District, who are now in college and graduate school.

“I look forward to listening to and learning from voters on all the islands,” said Byers.

For more info about the campaign at lisabyers.org.