Editor,

I am rising in support of Ronnie Wright for Mayor of Oak Harbor. His entire personal and professional life stands as a quiet example of excellence, responsibility, humility, and as a person of trust. He brings a lengthy history of ethical professionalism, meticulousness, and healthy sense of fairness. He has long held a position of trust in our community as a devoted and respected family man, CPA, and business owner.

I know there are many individuals and businesses on our island who absolutely trust him as a CPA, year after year, with the proper and fair handling of their financial affairs, be it state and federal tax filings, financial planning, trusts, retirement planning, and more. I know this for a fact, as I am now one of his clients. His help with my financial affairs has proven invaluable and I trust his advice implicitly.

Some time ago, I learned that Mr. Wright holds Enrolled Agent credentials from the IRS, and I was curious to know what that meant. I found out this is the highest credential IRS grants to a select few exceptionally well qualified tax professionals. It authorizes the holder to represent clients before the IRS, and getting one is a big deal. There are only 1300 Enrolled Agents in Washington State.

The lengthy application process to become an Enrolled Agent is administered by the IRS Office of Professional Responsibility. It involves a three-part comprehensive examination designed for the applicant to show they have sufficient expertise in the full array of tax matters. The process includes an inquiry into the applicant’s personal and professional conduct and a rigorous compliance check of the applicant’s past work. Only after the applicant successfully passes thru this process will the IRS grant the Enrolled Agent credential.

Knowing the stringent requirements the IRS places on obtaining an Enrolled Agent credential and the extensive vetting process Mr. Wright underwent in successfully doing so, as well as what I know about him as a person, provides ample validation of the fact that he is exceptionally well qualified to serve as mayor of our city. He has my vote and surely deserves yours.

Brian D. Peterson

Oak Harbor