The Vashon Park District is seeking to fill the board vacancy left by former commissioner Scott Harvey, who resigned last month over differences stemming from a staff wage increase plan.

At last week’s board meeting, board members and those who attended shared their thoughts of who they would like to see serve.

“I thought it would be good if we could get someone with financial acumen on the board,” said commissioner Karen Gardner of the open position at the June 26 meeting. Executive Director Elaine Ott-Rocheford added that she was inquiring with possible qualified candidates about filling the role but that no one has formally applied.

Commissioner Bob McMahon echoed their remarks, speaking to his own business background in describing the ideal new commissioner.

“I think we don’t necessarily want to look for a [certified public accountant] but I do think we want to look for someone with a business background,” he said.

Recent park district meetings have seen an increase in public comment, and among those who attended, a discussion was raised about advertising for the position and the need for fresh thinking as well as encouraging younger applicants to seek a term.

Gardner acknowledged the valuable perspective that a younger board member could bring but prioritized candidate background as well as a willingness to collaborate and get to work.

“I think I can say for all of us that we didn’t come in to support a single sport,” she said, hoping that the next commissioner will be supportive of the community at large. “It would be nice to have someone who wasn’t fractious. In an uncivil age, it would be welcome.”

The park district board has 90 days from the time Ott-Rocheford sent notice of the vacancy to King County, which she made on the morning of June 14. Their deadline to fill the position is Sept. 14.

People who are interested should contact Ott-Rocheford at the park district at 206-463-9602.