Nelson throws in for county treasurer

Jana Mathia, Gazette Reporter | Jan 18, 20180

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Chris Nelson

Chris (Christina) Nelson of Endicott declared her intention to run for Whitman County treasurer Jan. 12.

“I see where additional improvements can be made or improvements to areas that haven’t been tackled yet,” she said.

County Treasurer Mark Clinton told the Gazette this week he intends to seek re-election. Clinton ran for the position unopposed in 2014.

Nelson has worked as the Whitman County IT Director since September 2009. She has worked in Washington county government for 20 years, having also worked at Island County and Cowlitz County.

“I’ve worked very closely with the treasurer’s department on a lot of initiatives,” she said.

Nelson stated that there is not anything wrong with the treasurer’s office now, but she sees ways it could be improved.

“I have kind of a slew of talents I bring to the table there,” she said.

One of her top priorities would be better cash handling and management, especially in regards to accuracy and accountability.

“We have to have the accuracy and we have to be accountable for every dollar that comes in and out,” she said.

Nelson sees a lack of leadership at the treasurer level and believes she has a better way of doing things. She wants to take things that the department has already been working on up to the next level.

After graduating from the University of Oklahoma, Nelson went into the Marine Corps. She was on active duty for eight years where she attained the rank of captain. While in the Marines, she was an administrative and personnel officer and was in charge of training.

“My professional life has been one of service,” she said.

Nelson worked in IT at Island and Cowlitz counties. While in those facilities, she worked closely with county treasurers. During the recession, her position at Cowlitz was eliminated. At the time, Whitman County was hiring an IT director and she made the move east.

“I’m very happy to be here,” she said.

Nelson made her first announcement to run for treasurer to a group of women in Endicott. She said they have been very supportive, and she wanted them to be the first to know. She is active at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Endicott and has been working in the community there.

Nelson has set up a Nelson for Treasurer Facebook page where she will post updates to her campaign. Already she has a team assembling to assist in her efforts.

Nelson’s main objective is to improve functions at the treasurer’s office.

“I want to be able to look anyone in the eye and say yes, I know exactly what’s happening with the money they’re putting in,” she said.