Showing posts with label candidates. Show all posts
Showing posts with label candidates. Show all posts

Ronald Wastewater District Commissioner Pos #3 Candidate statement

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Incumbent Laura Mork is running unopposed for Ronald Wastewater District, Commissioner Pos #3


Laura Mork

It was an honor to be appointed to Ronald Wastewater’s Commission position #3 in 2017. I have been working hard to represent the rate payers since then, and would appreciate your vote. 

As a 4th generation Washingtonian and 23 year Shoreline resident, I am committed to serving our community. I volunteered with the PTA while my two children attended Shoreline Public Schools, and am now serving as Vice Chair on the City of Shoreline Planning Commission as well as Secretary at the Ronald Wastewater commission.

I am a Chemical Engineer, and have worked diligently on energy conservation, environmental protection, and sustainability issues, as part of business infrastructure support management and planning for my day job for several decades now. This expertise will be helpful to manage new demands on our wastewater system as Shoreline continues to grow. 

We all depend on our community infrastructure, and I am passionate about keeping our city clean and safe through good wastewater management, as the removal of sewage is arguably one of the most important elements a city relies on being handled well, and at a reasonable cost.

I believe that quality infrastructure is the basis for superior community life, whether it be wastewater removal, sidewalks, well thought out zoning, roads, parks, schools, etc. Our parents and grandparents invested in establishing the basic infrastructure that has been set up for us. It is our turn now to upgrade it, as appropriate, for the new realities of life for our children and grandchildren.


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Ronald Wastewater District, Commissioner Position 2 Candidate statement

Friday, November 1, 2019

Gretchen Atkinson
Ronald Wastewater District, Commissioner Position 2 incumbent Gretchen Atkinson is running unopposed for reelection. 

Her campaign statement follows.

Gretchen is a long time Shoreline Resident and community Volunteer. She has served as a Ronald Commissioner for the past 6 years of which 4 have been as President of the Board. 

Gretchen is dedicated to community service and is an active community leader. She is married and has 2 grown daughters that attended Shoreline Schools. 

Her volunteering includes PTA, including 4 years as President, Chairman Council of Neighborhoods, North City Business Association President, Shoreline Chamber of Commerce Board, Sound Transit Committee, Shoreline Emergency Management Council and is an active CERT member.

Gretchen is the recipient of the Golden Acorn, Shoreline Chamber Business of the year, and Kiwanis Everyday Hero Award.

"My goals for Ronald are to keep improving the infrastructure especially in areas of high root intrusion where backups occur. Providing adequate flow capacity in Shoreline's high growth areas is a worry. Making sure the district has the money for repairs without burdening the rate payers is a constant concern. Promoting a culture of trust and respect. And finally creating a smooth transition for the final assumption by the city."



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Shoreline School Board, Director District 5 Candidate statements

The seat for Shoreline School Board, Director District 5 is open. Sara Betnel and Joe Cunningham are vying for the position. Their statements follow:


Sara Betnel
Sara Betnel

I love this community and care deeply about creating a place where all our children thrive.

A long-time resident of Shoreline (and now Lake Forest Park), I’m the parent of 2nd and 5th graders who’ve attended the Children’s Center (now Edwin Pratt ELC), Cascade K-8, and Brookside. A proud graduate of public schools (Woodinville HS and UW) with an MFA in Theatre Education, I have worked for over 20 years to advance the mission of nonprofits, community foundations, and businesses doing good in the world; most recently as the sole proprietor of Reveal Communications.

I’ve been an active education advocate for many years across the District and State (with Washington’s Paramount Duty and as PTA Legislative Chair for the District) working to achieve full funding for public schools, supporting staff, and forwarding efforts to help our most vulnerable students and families.

As a parent, I’ve seen how challenging it is for students and families to be informed of and included in Board decisions. As an educator, I understand the challenges our educators face serving each child’s unique needs in an ever-changing, underfunded educational landscape. As a business owner, I know the importance of clear goals for effective budget and operational management.

I am running to make the Board more transparent, proactive, responsive, and accountable; one that builds relationships throughout the District to enable community-informed decision-making that will help us move forward on addressing gaps in equity, lowering class sizes, supporting staff, creating inclusive learning environments, establishing mental and behavioral health supports, and being ready for our area’s coming growth.

I am honored to have received the endorsement of the SEA and SESPA (our educators’ unions), Equal Rights Washington, as well as many local leaders and families in the District.

I invite you to contact me and would be grateful for your vote. https://www.sara4shorelineschools.com/


Joe Cunningham
Joe Cunningham

Education’s always been an important part of my life. My Dad was a School Superintendent and my Mom was a music teacher. I was raised on Native American reservations (Standing Rock, Pine Ridge, Fort Peck) and in Central America. I grew up around the need to improve equal access to education, working together to create equitable outcomes for all children. I raised my kids in the Shoreline schools. My daughter attends Shorecrest. My son who has autism, graduated from Shorecrest on the Dean’s List, and currently attends college. I am a member of Shoreline Special Needs PTSA, and other PTAs.

From my eight years at Kindering, a local nonprofit dedicated to early interventions for students with developmental delays, I helped decrease the need for costly special education services by 41%, resulting in better educational results for these students.

As a former policy analyst for King County, I have the practical experience it takes to look at the whole picture and run a school district for everybody’s benefit. I can set a budget, improve curriculum and make sure the schools implement policy the right way.

My priority is to ensure every kid has access to the academic and supportive programs kids need to succeed. I will invest in inclusion, social emotional learning and restorative justice integration, ensure equitable and accessible Highly Capable programs, and implement the “Since Time Memorial” curriculum to meet the needs of our diversifying student population.

As board members, we must communicate and be transparent. I will listen, and do more to include educators, staff, parents, and community members in decisions that will impact them.

My endorsements: Senator Jesse Salomon, Representatives Cindy Ryu, Lauren Davis, Javier Valdez and Gerry Pollet, County Councilmember Rod Dembowski, former Representative Ruth Kagi and former Shoreline Mayor Shari Winstead and many other leaders.

https://www.electjoecunningham.com/



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Shoreline School Board Director District 1 Candidate statements

Michael Jacobs, incumbent School Board President, is challenged by Meghan Jernigan for Shoreline School Board Director District 1. Their statements follow.

Michael Jacobs
Michael Jacobs

My wife and I graduated from Shorewood High School and our four children are products of the Shoreline School District. When we started our family, we wanted to be here in Shoreline so our kids could be raised in this community and educated in our schools. I am passionately committed to the Shoreline District and am honored to be the current President of the School Board.

During my tenure on the Board we have:

  • Achieved financial stability and negotiated competitive contracts with staff
  • Constructed two new High Schools, Parkwood Elementary and the Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center
  • Two new middle schools are under construction
  • Hired a Director of Equity and Family Engagement
  • Placed Equity leads in each of the Schools
  • Implemented race and equity policies, which include LGBTQ polices and protections, and are training staff and students on the policies
  • Installed solar power on Parkwood and will be installing solar on the new middle schools when completed
  • Implemented composting programs in the District
  • Hired a Coordinator to oversee and implement our reduce, reuse and recycle policies
  • Made early education more accessible and inclusive for all students

Our Schools are consistently ranked nationally and in the top tier of the state. Our kids consistently out-perform the state averages by a significant margin. We are producing exceptional lifelong learners.

However, we are not resting on our laurels. When the new middle schools open, we will be implementing Honors for all students in middle school. We have revised HiCap testing and identification to make HiCap more inclusive for all students. We have implemented policies and procedures to remove institutional barriers and level the playing field for all of our kids. I would like to continue this important work so that ALL of our students receive a world class education.

michaelpjacobs.com


Meghan Jernigan
Meghan Jernigan

Hello! I’m Meghan Jernigan, and I am running for Shoreline School Board, Director District 1. My husband Josh and I have two children who attend Shoreline Public Schools and we live in the Meridian Park neighborhood. I’ve spent the past few years serving as the PTSA Board Secretary, listening to and learning from our educators, administrators and families across the district. I’m honored to have the endorsement of the Shoreline Education Association, and I am respectfully asking for your vote.

We have so much to be proud of in our district, and I’m grateful to current and past board members for their dedicated community service. But Shoreline schools face emerging challenges that require our most creative thinking.

In recent years, poor strategic planning resulted in a multi-year disruption of our kindergarten program, burdening our district families, increasing the district’s costs for busing, and putting more cars on the road. Shoreline’s growth in housing and future light rail will require a school board that is engaged in generational planning to ensure access to a network of neighborhood schools for those to come.

While progress has been made, our district experiences persistent opportunity gaps across academic performance, graduation rates, participation in sports and placement in our highly capable programs. As a Native woman raising two children in the district, these gaps are at the center of our experience. We need diverse voices and ideas at the table to unlock our district’s full potential and meet the educational needs of all our students.

I believe public health approaches offer the richest opportunities for improving educational outcomes. As a Staff Scientist at WSU, I will draw upon my public health background as a framework for communication, priority setting, and fostering successful student environments. I would be honored to represent you and advance a shared vision for our district’s growth.

http://www.jernigan4board.com/



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City of Shoreline, Council Position 4 Candidate statements

Doris McConnell, incumbent councilmember and deputy mayor is facing a challenge from David Chen for City of Shoreline, Council Position 4. Their statements follow.


David Chen
David Chen

As a graduate of Shorecrest High School, father of three young children in the Echo Lake neighborhood, and son of Chinese immigrants living in Lake Forest Park, I understand first-hand the needs of Shoreline’s students, seniors, and working families. I have spent my career working on issues of equity, access, and helping those in need. As an attorney, I began my career promoting civil rights and have served for the last decade on the board of directors with direct services providers that support our homeless neighbors with Vision House and the Dale Turner YMCA.

I will bring new pragmatic solutions, partnerships, and strategic thinking to City Hall through increasing the diversity of housing options in Shoreline’s rezone areas, making strategic investments in public art, parks, trails, and gathering spaces to improve our business districts and supporting new small business investment by streamlining the planning and permitting process and increasing access to short-term municipal parking and state disability spots. Through strategic decision making, we can increase the number of businesses in the city, reduce the tax burden on our renters and homeowners in Shoreline, and make our communities more walkable.

Shoreline’s greatest asset is its community. I will hold working groups with immigrant, minority, LGBTQ, and business leaders to talk about ways the city can be more supportive, agile, and responsive. I am proud to have taken a stand and staying true to my values by leaving my job when the organization made a change I couldn’t agree with, even as the sole provider for my family of five.

I am honored to be endorsed by our city, county, and state Democratic leadership, including King County Executive Dow Constantine, Representative Cindy Ryu, Representative Lauren Davis, Mayor Will Hall, and Councilmember Keith McGlashan. I respectfully ask for your vote. More at Electdavidchen.com


Doris McConnell
Doris McConnell

It’s been an honor to serve Shoreline as a councilwoman and Deputy Mayor. Previously, I served for decades on various Shoreline PTAs. This leadership earned me two Golden Acorn Awards. My work on the Council has led to important roles in the National League of Cities and Sound Cities Association. I have developed positive relationships with leaders across all levels of government that allow me to effectively advocate for Shoreline. I am also past President of the Asian Pacific American Municipal Officials.

In my time on the Council, I have endeavored to increase economic development and improve services for our residents while maintaining our sense of community. Our region has seen rapid growth and we need careful planning and smart development in order to capitalize on the benefits of this growth without losing Shoreline’s identity or overwhelming our infrastructure. I have the experience to make sure we get these decisions right as Shoreline grows.
 
I am the candidate of choice of the County Democratic Party and Fuse Washington recommends me because of my experience. I have worked hard to protect Shoreline’s parks and green spaces, and have been a fierce advocate for increased social services. My record of service to Shoreline and my experience as an entrepreneur and business owner prove that I can keep projects on time and on budget. You have put your trust in me in the past and I take that responsibility seriously. I make it a point to see every issue from all sides and make time for anyone with a question or concern. I humbly ask for your vote.
 
Endorsements: King County and 32nd Democrats, Sierra Club, National Women’s Political Caucus, Washington Bikes, King County Council Chair Dembowski, Shoreline Councilmembers Chang, Robertson, and Scully, Tom McCormick, Jeanne and Larry Monger, Ginny Scantlebury and more.



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Shoreline City Council Position 6 Candidate statement

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

In Shoreline City Council, Position 6, Betsy Robertson is running to win the seat she was appointed to in January. She is being challenged by Luis Berbesi, who did not respond.


Betsy Robertson
Betsy Robertson

It was an honor to be appointed to Shoreline’s City Council in January and I have been working hard to represent our city since. My background is in journalism and community relations for humanitarian and philanthropic organizations. I have championed causes including civic engagement, hunger, and large-scale disaster relief, and now I love being able to serve the community my family calls home.

My involvement in Shoreline began as a volunteer with the Parks Board, protecting the green spaces, programs, and resources our city offers. I co-chair the multicultural family event at Ridgecrest Elementary School and regularly volunteer with our PTA.

As a councilmember I continue to advocate for green spaces and was instrumental in giving voters a choice for parks this November. It will always be a top priority for me to protect access to parks and outdoor recreation for generations to come.

As the only council member living East of I-5, development is impacting my neighborhood. I am an advocate for smart growth and transit-oriented development. As density increases around current and future transit hubs, we should build walkable neighborhoods with easy access to restaurants and services. With careful and proper planning, I believe we can create affordable housing, provide safe access to transit, protect our single-family neighborhoods and preserve the tree canopy.

It has been a challenging and exciting experience serving the people of Shoreline and I would be honored to serve you for another four years. I humbly ask for your vote.

ENDORSEMENTS: 32nd District Democrats; Shoreline Firefighters; King County Young Democrats; Sierra Club; National Women’s Political Caucus; Aerospace Machinists; Democratic Municipals Officials; Rep. Lauren Davis, King County Council Member Rod Dembowski; Shoreline Council Members Chang, McConnell, McGlashan, Roberts, and Scully; Snohomish City Councilmember Jason Sanders, Burien Mayor Jimmy Matta and many more!



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Lake Forest Park City Council Position 6 Candidate statements

Lake Forest Park City Council Pos #6 Incumbent Tom French and his challenger Tracy Furutani submitted these statements.


Tom French
Tom French

Dear Neighbors,

I have been here in LFP for more than 50 years- I grew up here and attended Brookside, Kellogg and Shorecrest, and then off to the UW. I deeply value the character of LFP and our small town way of life.

My position on growth, and particularly Town Center, is that I do not support anything close to what is allowed under the current 2005 code. If housing were to be in the mix I would only consider up to 150-300 units, if and only if, there is considerable public benefit, including a permanent home for the Commons and the Farmer’s Market.

Further, I sponsored and guided passage in September of the moratorium on development at Town Center to ensure the community and the Planning Commission had adequate time to weigh in and to help revise the existing code.

I am extremely outspoken about the safety issues on our streets. I advocated for and was successful in getting the first new sidewalk in more than 30 years in LFP built 2015 between the bus stops at Town Center.

This fall I have introduced comprehensive examination of our local speed limit laws to help ensure additional safety for all pedestrians and cyclists. The proposal includes several key measures, including a reduction of speed limits throughout the city.

I wrote and passed our comprehensive plastics ordinance, which has been labeled the “best in the state” by Zero Waste Washington. I care deeply for the environment and have supported as a top priority many other environmental measures to help keep LFP green and reverse decades of environmental decline.

If you have any questions about my position on any issue facing our community please feel free to reach out to me and I would be happy to meet.

With respect,
Tom French


Tracy Furutani

Tracy Furutani

I want to thank all of the Lake Forest Park residents who reached out and talked to me over the course of this campaign. It's proven to me that there are caring and passionate people throughout our city, and this can only bode well for the future.

I'm running because I want to see more resident involvement and representation in city issues for this is the only way we will build a city that represents us, the people who live here. 

I believe I can accomplish this through regularly scheduled office hours, reinstitution of the Citizen Academy, and the resurrection of resident-based city commissions. 

I've gotten a strong sense of Lake Forest Park values that I would represent. To put it simply, we care about the environment and each other. 

We have some major events coming, such as the new parking garage and the Town Center redevelopment. We can either let those things happen to us, or take a more active hand in it -- together. The first step is to vote on or by Tuesday, November 5. Again, a sincere thank you!



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Lake Forest Park City Council, Position 4 Candidate statement

Lake Forest Park City Council Pos # 4 incumbent Phillippa Kassover is running for re-election. The person who filed against her is not campaigning other than a statement in the voters' pamphlet.


Phillippa Kassover
Phillippa Kassover

I am seeking a second term to continue representing community values and priorities on the city council and throughout the region.

From the beginning, our city’s vision was to preserve the health and natural beauty of our forest, streams and wetlands. Like many of you, this is why we chose Lake Forest Park for our home. 

I have worked to keep LFP a model city for environmental protection by supporting our comprehensive tree ordinance; a great plastics reduction regulation; the removal of all fish barriers in our creeks; and the acquisition of Five Acre Woods and Brookside Park. The next steps are to continue park improvements and adopt a Climate Action Plan for our city to build on this legacy and preserve a healthy ecosystem for future generations.

My goal is to keep LFP a thriving, welcoming place for all, with safer streets and highways. As your councilmember I have advocated with state, county, and transit agencies to improve transit options and access for commuters and transit riders of all ages and abilities, and am working to make our streets safer for schoolchildren and all who walk and bike in our city. I support and am proud of our local Police Department and the excellent and respectful service they provide our community.

Finally, I want to ensure right-sized and environmentally sensitive redevelopment of our Town Center. Our region’s housing crisis demands responsible actions from cities and counties. In Lake Forest Park, this means making choices that serve the needs of all generations while also sustaining our natural environment. Because our Town Center lies at the bottom of a key watershed and aquifer, any new development must respect this vulnerable fish and wildlife habitat which feeds our lakes and ultimately Puget Sound.

Let’s work together toward a great future for LFP!



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City of Lake Forest Park: Position #2 Candidate statements

For Lake Forest Park City Council Pos #2, incumbent Deputy Mayor Catherine Stanford is challenged by Lorri Bodi. Their statements follow:


Catherine Stanford
Catherine Stanford

As a thirty-year LFP community volunteer, I am grateful for the privilege to serve the citizens of Lake Forest Park as your council member. We made significant progress as a city council in the last 4 years and accomplished a targeted work plan with direction to the city:
  • Parks: We added 2 new parks, and adopted our Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails plan to access grants and prioritize maintenance;
  • Streams: A comprehensive culvert plan for Lion and McAleer creeks and started reclaiming and restoring our creeks;
  • Safe Streets: Safe Streets plan with prioritized projects to deliver safer travel for cars and people on our local connections;
  • Safe Highways: Developed a formal plan and preferences to guide how the state DOT and other partners use and improve the highways that go through our community;
  • Town Center: Adopted a vision statement for Town Center created and guided by the input of LFP citizens. This vision is the guiding foundation for land use codes for the Town Center. The council sent the vision to the Planning Commission to see if any changes are required to the existing land use code to achieve the vision of LFP. 
In the coming four years I am committed to:
  • Support development only if it is consistent with the vision of our city and that is supported by the community;
  • Ensure a permanent, viable location for Third Place Commons and LFP’s Farmers Market;
  • Continue to deliver on environmental values in salmon recovery and tree canopy;
  • Ensure our children are safe and thrive in our community.
Life-long Democrat with the sole endorsements of the 46th Legislative District and King County Democrats; Atty General Bob Ferguson; King County Council Rod Dembowski; Senator David Frockt; former Representative Ruth Kagi; LFP Council Phillips and Resha; and former LFP Council Ed Sterner.

Lorri Bodi

Lorri Bodi

Lorri Bodi is an environmental attorney and executive manager seeking your vote and support for Lake Forest Park City Council Position 2. She is running against a 12-year incumbent because it’s time for a change, to bring a new voice and fresh perspectives to City Council.

Lorri is concerned that decisions our City makes in the next few years on growth, transit, traffic, and environmental conservation will affect our quality of life for decades to come. Yet City processes and proposals lately have been rushed and hard to follow, blocking out community input just when it’s most needed.

Lorri believes in LFP as a great place to live. She wants to give back to our community drawing on her decades of public service and her pragmatic legal, environmental, and management skills. Lorri raised her family here and has been a consistent supporter of our schools and neighborhoods, speaking out at Council meetings, public hearings, and community meetings. She has a strong track record of collaboration and communication, bringing diverse communities, agencies, and tribes together; managing complex budgets; and getting things done.

Lorri will work to preserve our quality of life; support balanced (not overwhelming) growth and affordable housing city-wide; conserve our streams and green spaces; advocate for transit and traffic mitigation and pedestrian safety; and use our financial resources wisely. She will listen to you directly (not through expensive consultants) and represent your interests, bringing a new voice and better solutions to our City Council

Bodi4LFP is a grassroots campaign staffed by volunteers. Lorri has reached out in dozens of coffees and neighborhood meetings and rung hundreds of doorbells to hear what’s on your mind. She is endorsed by seven former Council members, the National Women’s Political Caucus, and over 160 of your neighbors and friends.

LFP Values + Experience = Better Solutions www.Bodi4LFP.com Bodi4LFP@gmail.com


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City of Shoreline: Council Position #2 candidate statements

Shoreline City Council Pos #2 Incumbent Keith Scully and challenger Vivian Collica have provided the following statements.


Keith Scully
Keith Scully

In my first council term, I’ve listened carefully to our citizens and worked hard to improve life in Shoreline by increasing sidewalk repairs and new construction, removing barriers to small-business success, and promoting affordable housing. 

I’ve fought for increased tree protections, against unnecessary expenses like an oversized maintenance facility, and to make Shoreline a place that welcomes everyone.

I’m seeking re-election to a second term because there’s still much to be done. I’m working with regional leaders on a thoughtful, cost-effective program to address homelessness. That effort is about bringing accountability to how your county tax dollars are spent and coordinating regional efforts — without diverting Shoreline’s resources outside of the city—so we focus on programs that really work.

I will continue to work to keep crime rates low and to make sure mental health and other crises end peacefully. Our Shoreline Police Department is a pioneer in the RADAR program, which uses mental health professionals as well as police officers during mental health emergencies.

We’re growing rapidly. Finding ways to accommodate that growth without sacrificing the convenience and community that drew all of us here is our biggest challenge. I’m a strong supporter of tree protections, parks, and open space. I believe we need to continue to encourage transit ridership, sidewalks, and other means of getting around without needing to drive. But I also acknowledge that most of us will own a car for the near and probably far future and accordingly support keeping parking available and our roads well-maintained.

I’m honored to have broad community support, including the Sierra Club, Democratic party organizations, Shoreline’s Firefighter’s and Police Officers’ Guilds, AG Ferguson, Councilmember Dembowski, Senators Salomon and Chase, Representative Ryu, Shoreline councilmembers, and, most importantly, so many fellow Shoreline residents who encouraged me to run for a second term.


Vivian Collica
Vivian Collica

The strategy to gain revenue by adding density is flawed, adding cost and depleting the budget. Homeowners are overburdened. Our Department of Economic Development is understaffed, leaving businesses under supported. The City cannot afford additional officers, repairs, nor educators. Traffic, parking worsens, crime escalates along with Property, Sales, Business Taxes, and Car Tabs. Council’s moving to join Seattle on homelessness.

Developers, the largest contributors to Growth impacts, are exempt from paying property tax for 12 years! Their agreements to bring in new, accessible businesses, not enforced, resulting in lost jobs, convenience and sales revenue. They’re excused from providing adequate parking. The apartments aren’t affordable. Millions of dollars have been wasted trying to acquire Point Wells from Snohomish County, for more, resource draining development.

Promoting local business with sensible zoning, grouping restaurants or adding attractive features like fountains, and holding interesting events, can attract both residents to stay and spend money in town, and lure in local visitors. We shouldn’t let food trucks from Ballard compete with our struggling businesses. Let’s invite local shops to pitch tents at Cromwell Park, or the Jazz Walk to sell goods, make money, and get exposure, building their customer base. A pop-up pet park along Midvale showcasing Mudbay, a 4th of July Parade, highlighting Grinders, Streetzeria, Sultan Gyro, or Shari’s Pies or a fireworks display would attract tourists, boosting our economy.

Relying heavily on homeowners to fund the budget worsens homelessness. Let’s give empty nesters a 10% tax break on property tax to rent out affordable rooms, like developers, reducing cost to the City and opening shelter space for more serious cases. We shouldn’t absorb KC’s problem, but can handle it on a local level, maintaining control of our city.

Vote for Common Sense Solutions


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Ronald Wastewater Commissioner: Statement from Craig Degginger

Monday, October 28, 2019

Incumbent Craig Degginger is running unopposed for his position as Ronald Wastewater District Commissioner Pos #4. His statement follows.


Craig Degginger, Commissioner
Ronald Wastewater District

Thank you for the opportunity to serve on the Ronald Wastewater District Board of Commissioners. I was appointed to the board in June 2019.

I am committed to ensuring that Ronald continues to provide the quality of service at a reasonable cost that ratepayers have come to expect over the last 70 years. Ronald is maintaining and upgrading its infrastructure as our community grows.

Our Shoreline community is undergoing a transformation not seen in this area in decades, with light rail service scheduled to begin in five years and a number of large multi-family developments under construction or in the planning stages. It will be a busy time for the RWD to handle these requests for new service and to ensure the infrastructure is adequate. The Board of Commissioners plays an important role in reviewing capital projects to enhance the system capacity and maintain the expected level of service.

Current litigation continues around the assumption by the city and future service to that portion that of the Ronald district that lies in Snohomish County. It is incumbent on the commissioners to act in the best interest of the ratepayers as it works with the city to complete the assumption of the utility.

My family has lived in Shoreline since 1990 and our daughter graduated from Shoreline Schools. I bring to the Ronald Wastewater Board 37 years of experience in communications, including 20 years in the government sector, and the past 13 years in K-12 education. I previously worked as a community journalist.

My past volunteer service includes the City of Shoreline Economic Development Advisory Committee, which advised the city as it created an economic development plan, the Shoreline Back to School Consortium and the King County Fair Board.



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Shoreline Fire Commissioner: Statement from Kimberly Fischer

Thursday, October 24, 2019


Incumbent Kimberly Fischer is running virtually unopposed to continue in her position as Shoreline Fire Commissioner Pos #2. Her statement follows.

Kim Fischer
Shoreline Fire Commissioner #2
During the past several months I have attempted to personally say hello to as many of our citizens as time would allow. For those who do not know me:

Education: Shoreline High School and College
Occupation and Elected Experience: Shoreline Fire Commissioner

Your dedicated Fire Commissioner since 2014, I have and will continue to ensure that Shoreline Fire Department has the resources necessary to fully protect and quickly respond in our community, strategically developing long range planning to address growth and increased demands for service, while striving to continue delivering the highest quality of emergency service for our citizens and visitors.

Our Commissioner team is currently exploring the possibilities for joint opportunities with our neighboring fire departments to better serve our areas, as it has always been my personal and teams’ goal to provide the best cost effective service to the residents in our community.

A lifelong resident of Shoreline, I attended school, college, raised a family, worked and recently retired all here in Shoreline.

I am a dedicated, active community volunteer: as a Shoreline CERT (Citizens Emergency Response Team), and for over 35 years with Shoreline Fire Department in activities such as: Shoreline Christmas, Firefighter’s Stair Climb for Leukemia, Easter egg hunt at Richmond Beach, Team Shoreline Fire at Relay for Life, Christmas morning taking Santa on the fire engine throughout Shoreline, Shoreline Fire Open House, Strawberry Festival.

Memberships include: Currently holding a Director position on the executive board King County Fire Commissioner’s Association - Washington Fire Commissioner’s Association.

I am honored to be endorsed by our Shoreline Firefighters, Local 1760

And mutually supported by my fellow commissioner team.

I respectfully ask for your vote so that I may continue to serve our community as your Shoreline Fire Commissioner.



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Statement released by Friends of Keith Scully for Shoreline City Council Pos 2

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Keith Scully
Statement released by Friends of Keith Scully for Shoreline City Council Position 2:

Dear voters of Shoreline,

As you probably know, I am currently running for reelection to the Shoreline City Council, position number 2. You may have recently seen a mailer from my campaign sharing with you why I am running.

Even though we had a team of people and several versions, our final mailer inadvertently left off the sponsorship information that tells voters who is paying for political advertising. The mailer was paid for by my campaign. It should have said “Paid for by Friends of Keith Scully PO Box 23026 Seattle, WA, 98102.”

Openness and transparency in our political process is vitally important to me. All of our donor information is available at the Washington PDC’s website, including the cost of the mailing and the individuals and organizations who donated to help pay for it. I hope that if you have additional questions, or just want to let me know any of your thoughts about how we can make Shoreline a better place, you will contact me at 206-446-5491 or via email at keithscully2001@yahoo.com.

Thank you for your understanding, and I again apologize for the error.

Keith Scully



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North City Water Commissioner running unopposed

Thursday, October 17, 2019

In the only North City Water District commissioner position on the ballot, incumbent Patty Hale is running unopposed. The water district serves the west side of Lake Forest Park and the east side of Shoreline. The position was not included in any of the candidate forums.



Patty Hale
2019 General Election Candidate Statement
Patty Hale
Special Purpose District, North City Water District, Position 2


I was appointed as a North City Water District Commissioner in January of 2019. I am running to retain my seat so that I may continue to fulfill the North City Water District’s mission of providing high quality affordable drinking water. I’m dedicated to managing our water supply, maintaining infrastructure and providing conservation education.

As a Shoreline resident since 1982, I have over 27 years of community leadership experience with local organizations – including the Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association, Shoreline Council of Neighborhoods, Shoreline Police Department, King County Parks Commission and the Shoreline Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Board.

Strategic planning is a critical piece of our current work at the North City Water District. We are preparing for new growth with the siting of two Light Rail Stations and increased density in our service area. My extensive community involvement will be an asset in communicating perspectives with local and regional partnerships and issues of importance to the District, while also addressing the needs of our current customers.

Through the American Water Works Association and Washington Association of Sewer and Water Districts, I am taking continuing education to help me to better serve our District with confidence and a clear understanding of water management.

Respectfully, I ask for your vote so I may continue serve as your Water Commissioner utilizing new skills, past experience and my commitment to our community. I encourage your engagement.



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On the ballot: parks, city councils, school board

Friday, July 19, 2019

There are two parks levies to vote upon this year.

One county measure on this primary ballot and one Shoreline measure in the November election.

The King County Parks measure is basically a replacement levy, good for six years. It covers the whole county, but there is some money in it for Shoreline. Note that no one could be found to write a statement against it.

In the November election, Shoreline voters will be asked to fund a new recreation / swim center with some funding for parks. Shoreline is currently recruiting people to write pro and con statements for the voters' pamphlet. (see previous article)

For those who are looking for the candidate information we have published, here are the links:

Candidate statements: Shoreline School Board

Candidate statements: Shoreline City Council

Candidate statements: Lake Forest Park City Council

The top two candidates in each race will go to the general election.

Information about candidates can always be found by going to the webpage, and clicking "candidates" under Features in the first column. Don't go back too far - it has every candidate on whom we have ever published information.



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Candidate statements: Shoreline School Board

Sunday, July 14, 2019

There are three school board positions (District Directors) in the 2019 election: Districts 1, 4, and 5. Position 1 has two candidates: incumbent Michael Jacobs and challenger Meghan Jernigan. They will face off in the November general election.

Position 4 incumbent Dick Nicholson has withdrawn from the race, leaving challenger Rebeca Rivera as the sole candidate / winner.

Position 5, the open seat vacated by the retirement of Dick Potter, has three candidates: Joe Cunningham, Sara Betnel, and Mike Dee McMullin. This race is in the primary election. The top two candidates will advance to the general election.


The School Board primary candidates were asked to respond to the following questions:

Why do you want to be on the school board? Once you are on the board, how would you gather information from parents and the greater community in order to inform your decisions?

JOE CUNNINGHAM

My life is devoted to advocating for early-childhood learning and equal access to education. Raised by two public school teachers on Native American reservations in Central America allowed me to understand that education is unequable.

I have lived in Shoreline for 20 years, with two children who attended public school. I served as a parent advocate helping families understand developmental needs and how to change policy. Raising a son with autism, I worked with the Shoreline School’s to achieve success. I want families to receive the same positive outcomes.

Throughout my career, I cut through bureaucracies at local, state, regional level; working directly for elected officials, Children's Campaign Fund, and Arc of King County.

I will increase parent involvement. Active steps will include conference calls, listening sessions, cooperation with agencies, and online/social media outreach.

We have to redefine involvement to accommodate families' time. I’ll start by listening to you.

Website: www.electjoecunningham.com/
Email: joe@electjoecunningham.com


SARA BETNEL

I love this community and care deeply about creating a place where all our children thrive. We have a great school district for many, but not for all.

As a parent actively involved in our children’s classrooms and schools, I have seen how difficult it is for families to be informed about, and included in, decisions being made - leaving many students under-served.

Through conversations with students, parents, and educators across the District, I’ve learned how inequities exist between and within our schools - further impacting some of our most vulnerable students.

I want to join the School Board to create a more transparent, inclusive, and equitable District for all.

As a voice for our community, I will:
  • be available for personal conversations.
  • actively invite input from all.
  • attend student, PTA/school, and community meetings.
  • hold listening sessions to hear family/community concerns.

I would love to hear from you!

Website: www.sara4shorelineschools.com
Email: sara@sara4shorelineschools.com


MIKE DEE MCMULLIN

Website: MikeDSchoolBoard5.weebly.com/

No statement submitted



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Candidate statements: Shoreline City Council

Saturday, July 13, 2019

The Shoreline City Council has three positions on the 2019 ballot.

In Council Position 2 incumbent Keith Scully is faced by challenger Vivian Collica. In Position 6, Betsy Robertson, who was appointed to the council to fill the vacancy when Jesse Salomon was elected to the state legislature, will need to run for the position she is currently filling. She faces Luis Berbesi. These races will be on the November ballot.

In Council Position 4, incumbent Doris McConnell faces two challengers: David Chen and Ginny Scantlebury. With three candidates, this race is in the primary. The top two will face off in the general election.

The candidates in the primary were asked to answer the following question:

Provide a statement of less than 150 words about why you want to be a city councilmember and what skills and strengths you bring to the council.

Candidates are listed in the order they appear on the King County elections website.


DAVID CHEN

I am running for City Council because I have a vision for Shoreline as a vibrant, diverse, and resilient city with a strong sense of identity and dynamic neighborhood centers with diverse small businesses.

As a Shorecrest graduate, attorney for a local nonprofit, and father of three living in Echo Lake, I am committed to our community. Serving as board president of Vision House, a local organization helping homeless mothers and children secure permanent housing, I know how to address substance abuse, mental health, and homelessness with case management and wraparound social services.

My priorities are improving public safety, walkability, housing affordability, community gathering spaces, parking, and access to early education. It’s time for new, working solutions that will move Shoreline forward to a better future.

Endorsements: Shoreline Mayors Will Hall, Shari Winstead, Keith McGlashan; our Democratic state legislators Senator Jesse Salomon, Representatives Lauren Davis, Cindy Ryu, and Ruth Kagi.

Website: www.electdavidchen.com/
Email: david@electdavidchen.com


DORIS McCONNELL

I have served the people of Shoreline since 1996 when I started on the PTA. I was elected to the Shoreline City Council in 2008. I have built hundreds of close professional relationships throughout King County and beyond. It has been one of the greatest experiences of my life and I am ready to serve the people of Shoreline for four more years.

With my business experience, I know what entrepreneurs need to succeed. As treasurer and Vice-President for numerous PTA organizations, I know how to plan a budget and enact successful new programs. As Deputy Mayor, I have put in the hours to protect our homes, parks, and public facilities.

I have the experience to ensure that Shoreline feels like the Shoreline we fell in love with as we face rapid growth. You have put your faith in me three times; I believe I have earned a fourth.

Website: www.reelectdorismcconnell.com
Email: Doris@reelectdorismcconnell.com


GINNY SCANTLEBURY

I am running for City Council to protect and preserve this wonderful city we all enjoy. I plan to do this by: helping to solve petty crime and homeless issues, improve customer service, transparency and fiscal responsibility. I especially want to strengthen local neighborhoods in order to grow our evolving city. In doing this, I will listen to what every neighborhood needs and champion community-driven development.

I believe what I have learned by serving on 5 different homeowner boards in the past 25 years has helped me with many diverse groups. I have lived in Shoreline with my family since 1981 and have volunteered during many of those years. I was Syre PTA President, Hillwood Soccer Coach, Richmond Little League softball coach and now am serving on the Shoreline-LFP Senior Center board as its Vice President. During the past 30 years I have been in sales and marketing.

Website: www.ginnyforshoreline.org/ 
Email: ginnyforshoreline@gmail.com



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Candidate statements: Lake Forest Park City Council

Friday, July 12, 2019

The Lake Forest Park City Council has three positions on the 2019 ballot.


In Council Position 2 Deputy Mayor Catherine Stanford is faced by challenger Lorri Bodi. Incumbent Phillippa Kassover, in Position 4, faces Brett Newsham. These races will be on the November ballot.

In Council Position 6, incumbent Tom French faces Justin Johnson and Tracy Furutani. With three candidates, this race is in the primary. The top two will face off in the general election.

The candidates in the primary were asked to answer the following question:

What do you think is the greatest challenge facing Lake Forest Park and what skills do you bring to the council to help meet these challenges?


TOM FRENCH

The biggest challenge we face in our city is the preservation of our natural environment and the small town character of LFP.

As a 50-year resident and as a City Council member, I have worked collaboratively with our citizens to improve our city code to ensure the preservation of our park-like setting and small town atmosphere.

I have advocated steadfastly for balanced improvements to our town center that are reflective of the community’s vision, which has been consistent for decades.

With the strong support of the community, I authored and guided passage of one of Washington’s most comprehensive plastics ordinances.

I also advocated for and helped facilitate the acquisition of more than seven acres of pristine natural forest to preserve for future generations.

Working together as neighbors, we can improve and ensure the preservation of our natural environment and community values to keep the “forest” in Lake Forest Park."

Website: www.electtomfrench.com/
Email: electtomfrench@gmail.com


JUSTIN JOHNSON


Email: jfjohnson12@gmail.com

Candidate did not respond



TRACY FURUTANI

I have asked many residents, "What brought you to Lake Forest Park?" They’ve said the wildlife, green spaces, streams, the non-urban nature of the close-knit community.

LFP is facing significant changes: ST-3, Town Center redesign, and additional traffic that will affect all our lives. "What do we want LFP to look like in the future?” This question is important because we have the ability to grow our city into the future we want to see if we work together as a community and government utilizing inclusive, transparent communication.

As a geologist, I have taught science and climate change issues for 25 years. Along with my experience as a business owner and union officer, I have the skills to represent our community and lead us toward a sustainable future that maintains our community values.

Change is inevitable. How we change is not. We can make a difference.

Join our campaign: tracyforlfp.org
Email: tracy@tracyforlfp.com




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Campaign kickoff Saturday for school board candidate Sara Betnel

Friday, June 28, 2019

Sara Betnel, candidate for School Board
Join Sara Betnel, community and schools advocate, this Saturday, June 29, 2019 at her campaign kickoff at Hamlin Park Picnic Shelter to hear from the candidate about, and discuss, issues that matter to you.

Sara, a longtime resident of Shoreline (and now Lake Forest Park) with two elementary age children, has been an active community advocate with District PTA, the School Board, and the State Legislature for many years; working to achieve full funding for the school district, lowering class sizes, increasing equity in district policies and practices, supporting diversity in the curriculum and staff to reflect the community being served, and leading efforts to help the most vulnerable students and families.

As a working mother and educator, Sara knows how being involved in our children’s education is one of the most important ways we help them be their best selves and achieve personal success.

As the Legislative Chair for PTA Council, which serves the entire district, Sara has seen and experienced how difficult it is for students and parents to be informed and participate in the decisions that impact their daily lives. 

Through her deep relationships across the District, she has witnessed where inequities persist for our lower income families, students with disabilities, and communities of color and has worked to address these with local leadership at all levels. 

And, in conversation with current students, she has learned how their lived experience in our schools is not matching up with the expectations set by District policies and goals.

“I love this community and Shoreline Schools deeply” Sara said. “As a board member I will be a voice for transparency, inclusion, and equity, ensuring the people we serve are the first we hear from and consider when making decisions.”

With a background in education and the arts, Sara has been a communications professional for over 20 years, working to advance the mission of national nonprofits, community foundations, and businesses doing good in the world, most recently as the sole proprietor of Reveal Communications. 

She has taught at the elementary and college level and is married to a life-long educator who teaches math and science at a local high school. 

In addition to her advocacy work, she has been involved in empowering youth through coaching a youth soccer team for the last three years, supporting youth advocacy by shepherding a group of elementary age children through the process of getting legislation in front of local council and state representatives, and facilitating community action by a group of students in response to a national issue.

“Shoreline Schools are some of the best in the state. Even so, we have places where students are underserved and under-supported, which it is time to address. I am ready to help our community be heard and work with the District to make the promise of its mission to serve all students a reality.”



To learn more and share about your experience with Shoreline Schools, visit sara4shorelineschools.com and meet Sara at her Kickoff Event.

WHEN: Saturday, June 29th - 10am-1pm

WHERE: Hamlin Park Picnic Shelter, 16006 15th Ave NE, Shoreline 98155

INFO: The kickoff is a family friendly event where Shoreline Schools students, families, and concerned community are invited to come together to share our experiences, priorities, and hopes for our children and Shoreline Schools.

RSVP: sara@sara4shorelineschools.com or on Facebook



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