Campaign sign alterations, bickering and even physical altercations – these are all signs that the Kirkland City Council election campaign is heating up.

But they shouldn’t be.

Campaigns should be civil. Instead, Kirkland politics are getting dirty. And real ugly.

There have been reports that someone is putting false firefighter endorsement tags on candidates’ signs. Others are taking candidates signs down or blocking them with other signs.

A police report even noted a disturbance over campaign signs in north Rose Hill on Sept. 30. Two of the parties involved were campaigning for a council candidate and allegedly saw a third party remove signs.

A physical altercation ensued and police found both sides equally responsible, the report continued.

An election should be won fair and square, with no dirty politics involved. It is not only uncivil, but it makes a mockery of our city.

Cut it out.

The better – and more civil – way to go is to attend a candidate forum, ask candidates questions or engage in a robust discussion.

There are three issues of the Kirkland Reporter printed edition left before the Nov. 8 general election. However, ballots will go out next week.

This means, if you have something to say about a council candidate, you should submit a letter by 5 p.m. Monday if you want to see it published in the Oct. 21 printed issue when your words will make the most impact.

We encourage you to submit civil letters to: letters@kirklandreporter.com You may also mail them to: 11630 Slater Ave. N.E., Suite 8/9, Kirkland, WA 98034.