The job has changed since voters last cast their ballots in November.

The three candidates elected to the council on April 23 will have expanded duties, executive as well as legislative, and earn nearly twice as much as their predecessors.

It’s with this expanded role in mind, and with a nod to balance among the three, that the Journal, along with its sister papers, the Weekly and Sounder, endorse Rick Hughes, Jamie Stephens and Lovel Pratt in their respective races.

Lovel Pratt sees the big picture and works tirelessly. Her service to the community, including championing the Brickworks project and leading the coal port EIS scoping effort, demonstrates she understands how the county operates and that she will put full commitment into her work. We like the fresh perspective Jarman has on some thorny issues the county faces, but with the changing nature of the council position, we believe Pratt has the edge.

It’s a shame that Hughes and Lisa Byers can’t serve together on the council. That, we’d endorse. But in the end, we like both the diversity of Hughes’ background and his inventiveness. His commitment to the community is well-documented. What’s more, he’s thoughtful, conscientious and an independent thinker; Hughes by a nose.

Jamie Stephens brought a long, accomplished list of community involvement along with him when he was elected to the council two years ago.From the Port to the Family Resource Center to Fisherman Bay Water Association to the Land Trust, Stephens has — been there, done that.

In this race, he’s the man.