Getting elected to a public office is big business, especially in a year like 2008 that many people view as a “bellwether.” Although many candidates go outside the local economy for campaign related services, various local businesses such as print shops, mail houses and graphic design firms say they see a nice surge in volume around this time of the year during years that include presidential and gubernatorial elections especially. Several local business owners said they anticipate the rush, and they try to accommodate it by planning on it ahead of time.

What does it cost to get elected these days? It depends who you are, what you’re running for, and often, how important the seat is to one party or the other.

Locally, Sen. Derek Kilmer , beat a record when his campaign spent $425,249 in 2006 ; his campaign for the House, in 2004, earned the same honors in 2004, at $263, 527 raising the second-highest amount ever for the House.

Most candidates, however, have smaller target budgets, and some don’t even come close to raising this much while running for Legislature; local races, of course are a lot less expensive. This year, the campaigns range from a modest $5,000 expected by Kitsap County commissioner candidate Paul Nuchims to more than $200,000 that Rep. Larry Seaquist, running for reelection in the 26th District, expects to raise . “In a district like 26th, it takes that much money since it’s a swing district,” he said.

Tim Matthes, running for Jan Angel’s county commissioner spot, said his goal was $15,000 and by mid-July he was within about $3,000 of that goal. He describes his campaign as frugal: For example, he spent $200 on software to design his own brochure instead of paying for one and he’s reusing small-sign stakes recycled by other campaigns — saving as much as $800. He hired a consultant initially but realized he can’t afford one. He said fundraising has been the most difficult part of the campaign because he’s used to being self-sufficient, but said many people are sending donations even without being asked.

Fred Finn, running for the 35th Legislative District, hopes to bring in $100,000 by primary and $150,000 by November. He raised the most money for that seat, which has three other candidates. He’s already sent out a mailing to targeted voters. “This year’s particularly challenging, which is why I wanted to get the brochures out early,” he said.

Marlyn Jensen, hoping to unseat Seaquist, said the economic downturn is reflected on the fundraising. “People don’t have a lot of discretionary money right now,” she said. “It’s harder to raise money than ever. I take as little as $5 and $10.” Like Matthes, she’s finding ways to economize: She held her campaign kick-off at her home — serving hotdogs to the nearly 300 supporters who came.