FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Tom Nelson announces candidacy for Thurston County Treasurer

Tom Nelson today announced his candidacy for Thurston County Treasurer, saying “I will bring my private sector financial experience to the Treasurer’s office, working for all citizens with great integrity, honesty and efficiency.” Tom will run as a Republican.

“I plan to use my education and business knowledge to bring innovation and efficiency to the financial sector of our local government.  I grew up in Thurston County and it is important for me to see our community continue as a quality place to live, work and raise a family,” Nelson added.

Tom lived most of his life in Thurston County.  He is actively involved as a community leader.  He is a member of the Rotary Club of Lacey serving as the Public Relations Chair, and serves as the Treasurer for his Homeowners Association.  He served as a member of the Olympia School District Facility Advisory Committee, a former Scoutmaster, and a youth leader of his church.  Tom is an instructor and coordinator of the AARP Tax-Aide program at the Olympia Senior Center, and also works as an adjunct professor at Saint Martin’s University teaching finance.  Tom works as a Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer for Thurston First Bank in Olympia.  Early in his banking career, Tom was President of Young Credit Professionals, a club of young bankers within the nationwide Risk Management Association.

Tom graduated from North Thurston High School in 1991 then received a Bachelor of Science with a double major in Business Management and French Language.  He later earned an MBA from Brigham Young University, placing in the top tier of his class.

Tom and his wife Liz have been married 14 years and have four children.  Tom’s father is Thomas L. Nelson, the mayor of Lacey.

“The Treasurer’s role is to maintain public trust.  The public should know the county’s money is in good hands.  The office has been well run and has a talented staff.  My goal as County Treasurer is to build upon those successes.  I will be sharing my ideas during the course of the campaign,” Nelson continued.

“If elected, I will work with all county departments, school districts, fire districts and other local entities who utilize county services.  I will be a consensus builder.  While technically a partisan elected office, I view my role as a non-partisan official, working for the good of Thurston County,” Nelson concluded.