The Kitsap News Group endorses the following candidates in contested races in the Nov. 8 general election. The endorsements are made based on interviews with the candidates, information gathered at candidate and issues forums and Q&As with the candidates.

Kitsap County Commissioner, District 2: We see no reason to replace County Commissioner Charlotte Garrido. She has good ideas to improve the efficiency in Public Works, Parks, Human Services and Department of Community Development’s response to constituent needs. She makes land-use decisions knowing that “people have to live with those decisions a long time.” She’s worked to improve the county’s codes related to agriculture, and wants to improve the ability of smaller growers to get their produce to market. She supports establishing zoning for tiny houses as a source of affordable housing.

Garrido is a knowledgeable public servant who operates in a nonpartisan fashion. She is thoughtful, approachable and a quick study. Re-elect Garrido.

23rd District State Representative, Position 1: Re-elect state Rep. Sherry Appleton. She had a formidable challenger in Loretta Byrnes, but Appleton shows a depth of understanding of issues and challenges that Byrnes does not. Appleton has good ideas on how to reform our tax structure (without establishing a state income tax, by the way) in order to free up funding for basic education. She also supports more access to early childhood education and community college. She’s worked hard to improve access to mental health care and chemical dependency treatment, protect victims of sex crimes, ensure school children are fed, and to protect older residents. Let’s keep her working for all of us.

6th Congressional District: U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer, D-Bremerton, has served our district well since his first day on the job, working for legislation that benefits defense, veterans and job creation. He’s also committed to changing the tone in the nation’s capital. He’s one of several members of the House from both parties who are committed to working across the aisle to identify issues on which both sides can agree, and accomplishing those. We are going to need that commitment to bipartisanship in a Congress that is so bitterly divided. Re-elect Kilmer.

Kitsap Public Utility District Commissioner: Elect Debbi Lester. We like John Armstrong and appreciate all that he has accomplished in his 24 years as a public utility district commissioner — he’s served the district and its constituents well. But Lester brings a fresh perspective. She will bring new ideas to the management of our water resources, to ensure we are able to meet the needs of a growing Kitsap.