Camano Island resident Grant Shaw announces run for Island County Commissioner

Grant Shaw, a 30 year Camano Island resident known locally as a tireless community volunteer and pragmatic problem-solver, announced this week that he is running for Island County Commissioner as a Democrat, seeking to succeed Commissioner Janet St. Clair, who has said she will not seek another term.

Shaw said his decision to enter the race months ahead of the May filing week reflects both the urgency of the issues facing Island County and his commitment to giving voters — and potential supporters — clarity early in the election cycle. “Starting my campaign right now allows me to spend more time with the citizens of Island County on both islands and listen to their concerns so I can better serve them.”  

“Island County deserves steady, solutions-focused leadership,” Shaw said. “This is a pivotal moment for our communities, and I’m ready to step up and serve our citizens.” 

A Democrat like St. Clair, Shaw said he intends to build on the county’s recent progress while bringing what he describes as a “hands-on, get-it-done” approach to complex challenges. Over the years, Shaw has earned a reputation as a collaborative leader who works across differences to find common ground and move projects forward.

Shaw was previously honored with the Jeannie Ovenell Spirit Award by the Camano Island Chamber, recognizing individuals from Stanwood and Camano Island who demonstrate exceptional dedication and care for the community. He said the recognition reflects his belief that progress happens when neighbors work together.

His volunteer service includes work with the Freedom Park Association. Shaw first volunteered to help build the park’s playground in 2010 and joined the board in 2017, when the park faced possible foreclosure. He now serves as vice president. Working alongside fellow board members, volunteers, local businesses and donors, Shaw said the group was able to stabilize the park financially, make significant improvements, and preserve the private community park for years to come.

Shaw has also been active in local schools, serving as Utsalady Elementary Booster Club president and on the PTO board at Port Susan Middle School. He has actively supported Stanwood-Camano School District’s, including campaigning for levies and the bond for the new Stanwood High School and Church Creek Campus. As a father of two daughters, he said he understands the importance of a strong educational system and its broader impact on the community.

“I’ve always believed that if there’s a problem, you gather the right people, put your heads together, and solve it. I might not always have the solution but someone in the room might, ” Shaw said. “That’s how I’ve approached my volunteer work, and it’s how I would approach serving as county commissioner.”

Shaw said his campaign will focus on the county’s Growth Management Plan, protection of water resources, public safety, and support for emergency services. He said he believes that county leaders must examine issues from multiple perspectives, noting that decisions made today will shape the future of Camano Island and Island County for decades.

In addition to his volunteer work, Shaw has served as a Well Association president and has a background in Architecture and Construction, as well as a career managing multi-million-dollar retail budgets. He said that experience has prepared him to oversee county finances, infrastructure investments, and long-range planning.

Island County commissioners oversee county government operations, set policy and manage an annual budget that funds public safety, public works, public health and other essential services. The role also requires coordination with cities, state agencies, tribal governments and community partners.

Shaw said he plans to run a grassroots campaign focused on listening to residents throughout the county.

“Our county works best when leadership listens first,” he said. “I want to hear from families, small business owners, farmers, first responders, and retirees about what’s working — and what isn’t. My goal is to be a commissioner who is accessible, responsive, and accountable.”

The primary election is scheduled for August, with the general election in November. Candidate filing week in Washington state begins in May.

Residents interested in learning more can contact the campaign at ElectGrantShaw@gmail.com. Campaign website and social media information will be announced at a later date.

We decided to go with a unique approach very early in the process.

Instead of the typical candidate sign, I wanted something unique to represent me and some of the attributes I represent as a candidate for commissioner. The outdoors, especially crabbing, is a big part of our unique county. The idea of a crab logo quickly became a goal, representing Versatility navigating goals, Resourcefulness and Determination.

Fun and whimsical is also a goal of our unique crab logo, created by friend and artist Rob Kramer. I hope you enjoy the logo and the reading below. - Grant

Core Symbolic Meanings

Protection & Boundaries: The crab's exoskeleton serves as a natural armor, symbolizing the importance of setting healthy emotional boundaries to protect one's sensitive "inner core".

Adaptability: As creatures that thrive in both land and water, crabs represent versatility and the ability to navigate shifting environments with resourcefulness.

Non-Linear Progress: Their unique sideways gait encourages approaching goals from different angles. It suggests that the most effective path is not always a direct one.

Growth & Renewal: Through the process of molting, crabs symbolize transformation and rebirth—shedding old, limiting "shells" to allow for a newer, stronger self. 

Cultural & Astrological Significance

Zodiac (Cancer): The crab is the symbol for the sign of Cancer, ruled by the Moon. It reflects qualities of nurturing, domesticity, and intense emotional depth.

Chinese Culture: Crabs are often associated with success and high status, particularly in academic exams, because the Chinese word for a crab's shell (jia) also means "first" or "best". They can also represent harmony and good fortune.

Native American Traditions: In some coastal tribes, the crab is viewed as a symbol of self-reliance and survival.

Ancient Egypt: Crabs were occasionally linked to the goddess Isis, embodying her protective and nurturing nature.

The "Crab" as a Spirit Animal

When a crab appears as a spirit or power animal, it often brings these specific messages:

Strategic Retreat: It may be a signal to step back into your "shell" for a period of introspection and self-care.

Tenacity: It reminds you to stay focused and "pinch" onto your goals, refusing to let go until they are achieved.

Emotional Navigation: It encourages you to trust your intuition and flow with the natural "tides" of your life