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

Candidate Statement – Ellyn Saunders, LFP City Council Position 4

Sunday, July 9, 2023

Ellyn Saunders, candidate for
Lake Forest Park City Council
Candidate Statement – Ellyn Saunders, LFP City Council Position 4

Dear friends, neighbors, and residents of Lake Forest Park,

I am running for city council because of my respect, love, and passion for our community and the amazing city in which we live. 

When elected, I will make it my priority to listen to your ideas and concerns, be a strong and effective voice, and be your representative to the city government, and echo our needs to the region and state.

I have demonstrated these strengths throughout my 25-year career as a registered nurse and as a mom. I am eager to bring these skills to benefit the residents of this city I am proud to call home.

  • I will be a strong voice for safer roads and parks for everyone.
  • I believe we must preserve and manage our city’s vision for clean and healthy air and water.
  • I am deeply concerned that the next generation may not be able to afford to live here in the future.
  • I will collaborate with local officials and housing experts to help find solutions for safe, affordable, and equitable housing.

During my career, it has always been a privilege to advocate for patients, assisting them to achieve goals and better quality of life. I ask you for your support and your vote to allow me the opportunity to represent you, be your advocate, and help meet the goals and visions for our beautiful city.

- Ellyn

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Lake Forest Park candidates tour LFP well field

Saturday, June 17, 2023

The well field's large water tank
Photo by Maris Abelson

By Maris Abelson

Candidates for Lake Forest Park City Council and Mayor toured the LFP Water District well field on Wednesday. The site is the source of drinking water for about 2,400 residents in Lake Forest Park and available for firefighting purposes.

Alan Kerley, the water district’s general manager, led the group around the recently completed pump house equipped with a reinforced roof which can withstand falling trees.

He described the function and provenance of the wells and tanks, emphasizing the district’s focus on preserving landmark trees, removing invasive plants, and restoring native ones. He then took everyone on a stroll along the upper pedestrian trail that skirts the well field.

Water district manager Alan Kerley discusses the history of the well field.
Photo by Dan Benson

Water District Commission members Dave Hammond, Eli Zehner, and Bill Donahue provided additional information about the history of the water system.

“We have a heck of a good water district, and they have really educated people that care about the environment,” said Paula Goode, candidate for Council Position 6.

Lorri Bodi, who is running unopposed for Position 2 said, "The District team does an impressive job conserving our water resources, our trees, our wetlands, and our wildlife. And the water they supply to our community is untreated, pure, and award-winning.”

For Ellyn Saunders, a long-time LFP resident and candidate for Position 4, it was a first opportunity to view the well field. “I knew that they were up here, but I had no idea how magnificent this is, how fortunate we are to have such pure water, and the work that goes into it,” she said.

Hiking the Upper Train
Photo by Sally Yamasaki

LFP Mayoral candidate Tom French (who had recently toured the well field with fellow councilmember Tracy Furutani), looks forward to a continued close-working relationship with the water board and district management.

Learn about the LFP Water District at its website


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Lake Forest Park: multiple candidates for open council seats and contested Mayoral race

Monday, May 22, 2023


At the close of the filing period on Friday, May 19, 2023, it appears that Lake Forest Park is in for a lively election season.

Long-time councilmember Tom French has left his council position to challenge incumbent mayor Jeff Johnson.

Vying for his council seat #6 are;

Phillippa Kassover has chosen to retire from her council seat (see previous article

Candidates who have filed for her seat #4 are:

Incumbent Lorri Bodi in position #2 has no challengers. Barring a vigorous and unlikely write-in candidate, she has effectively been re-elected to her seat. Her statement was previously published.

Races with more than two candidates will be in a primary in August with the top two advancing to the general election in November.

Residents can check their registration information at My Voter Information

--Diane Hettrick


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Politics: LFP Mayor Jeff Johnson to run for reelection

Sunday, May 14, 2023

LFP Mayor Jeff Johnson
Lake Forest Park looks a little different than it did 12 years ago, and we’ve accomplished quite a bit. But there’s still a bit more to get done, and I’d like to see a few things through to completion.

Therefore, I’m excited to seek your votes one last time for Mayor of Lake Forest Park.

Working together, we’ve gotten a lot done in my two terms as mayor.
  • Our city has several new parks, including Five Acre Woods, Brookside Park, a reimagined Eagle Scout Park, and our exciting new future waterfront park.
  • We’ve made Lake Forest Park one of the top five safest cities in the State of Washington (according to several surveys).
  • We’ve added crucial culverts on Lyon and McAleer Creeks to improve water quality, flood mitigation, and fish passage.
  • We’ve assembled an excellent new leadership team, making it possible to survive COVID with no layoffs and minimal service disruption. (I would like to thank the entire staff for their sacrifice and dedication to the city with their willingness to take furlough days.)
  • Through the unpredictable economic landscape of the past few years, the city has maintained stable finances.
  • With our commitment to the environment, we created a new environmental task force, park board, and tree board.

In addition, my “Coffee with the Mayor” meet-ups, nights out against crime with our police force, and all the events we’ve brought back, like Picnic in the Park, Battle of the Bands, and Pet Parade, have blessed me with the opportunity to meet and get to know so many of you.

But there’s still much to do:
  • Complete more upstream culverts, including Ballinger Way and 35th.
  • Design and build the future waterfront park, giving all citizens a chance to enjoy Lake Washington.
  • We have many important decisions to make, including how to fund: road and park maintenance, our outstanding police department, and sidewalks.

Lake Forest Park has more challenges ahead, including minimizing the impact of Sound Transit, state zoning pressures, and how to remain safe and compassionate during these challenging times of rising crime, drug use, and homelessness. With so many wishes and wants from our diverse citizen base, there aren’t always solutions, but often compromises.

Our city remains a destination for people and families seeking a safe and friendly place to live, and I’d like to thank all of the people who have volunteered, run for office, and participated in making this the home it is for all of us.

Thank you for allowing me to serve. Let’s continue working together to move this city forward.

Mayor Jeff Johnson


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Politics: Lorri Bodi announces for LFP Council

Tuesday, May 2, 2023

Lorri Bodi
Greetings Lake Forest Park Neighbors,

I’m excited to let you know I am seeking re-election to Lake Forest Park City Council Position 2. It’s been my privilege to represent you as your Councilmember for the last three and a half years, through the pandemic and beyond. 

I will be filing for re-election in May, and seeking your votes in November.

I care deeply about our small city, and there is still work I would like to do for the future of LFP. I raised my family here and have been a consistent supporter of our community and schools. 

I would like to continue to use my knowledge and public service experience – as an environmental attorney, negotiator, manager, and government executive -- to give back to LFP.

As your Council representative for the last few years, I have delivered on my commitments to you. I have worked with our citizen groups, collaborated with my fellow Council members and the City Administration, and stayed transparent and connected with the community. I have spearheaded or advocated – and voted for:
  • enhanced streams, green spaces, parks, and trees
  • housing diversity and flexibility for seniors and young families
  • public safety improvements and police reforms
  • updated zoning to guide balanced growth (especially at Town Center and in critical areas)
  • wise use of our financial resources to maintain essential services
  • affordable housing incentives for future multi-family construction
  • progress toward a Climate Action Plan for LFP
I would like to continue to hear from you and work to preserve our quality of life, support balanced growth and transit, conserve our environment, and keep LFP welcoming, safe, and affordable.

I look forward to seeing you at the Commons, the Farmers Market, and other community events, and I welcome your comments and suggestions. Please spread the word and vote for me on November 7, so I can continue to represent your interests and be a Your Voice on City Council.

Warm wishes,
Follow Bodi4LFP|Facebook


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King County hosting online workshops for people interested in running for local offices, April 15 and April 24

Thursday, April 13, 2023

Photo by Michael Carruth on Unsplash
King County is hosting several online candidate workshops providing information about filing for office in King County including submitting local voter’s pamphlet information, voter lists and data management, campaign sign regulations, and basic public disclosure information from the Public Disclosure Commission. 

Workshops are on Saturday, April 15 from 11am to 1pm and Monday, April 24, 2023 from 3pm to 5pm.

Candidate registration with King County starts May 14 and ends May 19. Information about candidacy and running for office is available from the King County Elections Home Page. In addition, candidates must register with the Public Disclosure Commission. Link to key dates with the PDC.

City of Shoreline City Council Elections November 2023


Three (3) City Council positions are up for election/re-election in November 2023: Positions 2, 4, and 6. Candidates must follow the guidelines and registration dates as posted by King County (see above).

As the City's governing body, Shoreline's seven elected part-time City Councilmembers establish City policies and laws, adopt an annual budget, approve appropriations, contract for services and grant franchises.

City Councilmembers serve staggered four-year terms; roughly half the Council is up for election every two years. All Councilmembers are "at-large" meaning that they serve the City as a whole as opposed to a specific district.

The mayor is a councilmember, elected by the council. The mayor sets the agenda for council meetings and represents the city on formal occasions.

City of Lake Forest Park Mayor and Council Elections November 2023


The Mayor and three (3) Lake Forest Park City Council positions are up for election/re-election in November 2023: Positions 2, 4, and 6. Candidates must follow the guidelines and registration dates as posted by King County (see above).

The Mayor and seven City Councilmembers are part-time, non-partisan elected officials who serve four-year terms. Municipal elections are held in November of odd-numbered years and terms are staggered so that no more than four positions are up for election every two years. All Councilmembers are elected "at-large," meaning they serve the City as a whole, as opposed to a specific district.

Unlike Shoreline, LFP has a Mayor/Council form of government.

The City Council is the legislative body of the City.  It enacts laws and regulations, establishes policy direction for the City, establishes tax and fee rates, adopts an annual budget, grants franchises, approves contracts for services, and payment of all City moneys.

The mayor is the executive branch of the city government, elected directly by the voters of Lake Forest Park for a four year term. The City of Lake Forest Park has a strong-mayor form of municipal government in which the mayor has the administrative authority to prepare and administer the budget, appoint a City Administrator, and appoint and dismiss department heads.


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Candidate forum July 8: Lake Forest Park is in a different state Legislative District

Thursday, June 30, 2022

Lake Forest Park has been redistricted into the 1st Legislative District (state). The 1st district includes Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, Bothell, Kirkland.

It is in both King and Snohomish counties. Lake Forest Park remains in the 7th Congressional district (congress).

The change will take effect after the November elections. The legislature will go into session in January 2023. 

The current 1st LD Washington state representatives are Davina Duerr and Shelley Kloba, both of whom are running again for state legislature. They will be on the primary ballot. Senator Derek Stanford's current term is not up, so is not on the ballot this year.

The League of Women Voters of Snohomish County is hosting a virtual candidate forum.

Date: Friday, July 8, 6:30 - 7:30pm

How to watch: Join us on our YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/lwvsnohomishcounty

In addition to the 1st LD (Legislative District) representatives, the US Senate, Congressional district 7 and the Secretary of State will be on the ballot.

The primary ballots should be arriving in your mailbox around July 15. Your completed ballot should be returned by August 2, 2022. You can drop your completed ballot in the mail or in a ballot box such as the one which will be at LFP City Hall.



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New Lake Forest Park councilmembers

Saturday, November 6, 2021

New LFP Councilmembers Lebo, Furutani, Goldman

King County had counted 566,291 ballots by the end of day Friday, November 5, 2021. 

With only 36,000 ballots to count for all of King County, there will be little movement in Lake Forest Park elections. Daily updates will be issued until the election is certified on November 23, 2021.

Voter turnout across the county was 40.58%.

New councilmembers as of January 1, 2022:
  • Tracy Furutani
  • Jon Lebo
  • Larry Goldman
They will join Semra Riddle, Phillippa Kassover, Lorri Bodi, and Tom French

The current council serves until the end of 2021.

Prop 1 for parks and sidewalks was soundly defeated. The most common concern expressed was that it was a perpetual tax.

Funding sidewalks and parks is expected to be high on the list for the 2022 council.


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Election updates Wednesday November 3, 2021 - Lake Forest Park City Council and Prop 1

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Goldman (left) and Sanford (right) are within 76 votes of each other as of Wednesday
for Lake Forest Park Council Position No. 7

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

One council race was never in contention as Semra Riddle ran for another term. Council Position No. 7 is a nail-biter with Larry Goldman leading Paul Sanford by 76 votes.

Furutani leads Larson and Lebo leads Angelis.

Prop. 1 for parks and sidewalks, is failing badly.

City of Lake Forest Park
Registered Voters: 10,364

Council Position No. 1
  • Semra Riddle - winner*

Council Position No. 3
  • Stephanie Angelis  983
  • Jon Lebo              1884

Council Position No. 5
  • Tracy Furutani    1,605
  • Maddy Larson    1,281

Council Position No. 7
  • Larry Goldman   1,477
  • Paul Sanford       1,401

Proposition No. 1 (Parks and Sidewalks)
  • YES                  1,041
  • NO                    2,119

*running unopposed



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Turn in your ballot before 8pm on Tuesday - resources and warnings

Sunday, October 31, 2021

READ THIS and FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

By Diane Hettrick

Your ballots are due before Tuesday, November 2, 2021 at 8pm.

You can mail them in if you verify that they will be postmarked before that time.

There is a Vote Center in Kenmore if you need to register or need assistance. Article here.

Best to put the in an election drop box. They are all over King county and there are three locally.

  1. Lake Forest Park City Hall - there is one right next to City Hall in Town Center, intersection of Ballinger and Bothell Way.
  2. Shoreline Library - in the parking lot - library is located on the corner of NE 175th and 5th NE.
  3. Shoreline Park n Ride - in the northeast corner where there is a little park / rain garden. Across from Cats Exclusive and the old Rat City / Mattress World building.
Sign the outside of the ballot envelope. 
  • Provide an email or phone number in case they can't read your signature.
  • Answer the phone or respond to emails from the elections division. 
  • If they can't "cure" your ballot with the missing or illegible signature it won't be counted. 
You must get your ballot in the drop box before 8pm.
  • If you hand your ballot to an election worker at the drop box even one minute after 8pm - they will take it but it will not be counted.
  • If you get to the drop box after 8pm - laying your ballot on top of the drop box will not get it counted.
Vote
  • Even if a candidate is running unopposed, they still deserve your support
Don't vote
  • If you are uninformed about a candidate or other measure - don't vote. 
  • Skip that one and move on to something you know about.
You can find information about local candidates and measures on our site
  • Important note - this will be a mix of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park
  • It will also have past elections
  • Candidates here - scroll down
  • Candidate forums here - scroll down


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Shoreline Council candidates respond to community questions

Thursday, October 28, 2021

L-R Laura Mork, John Ramsdell, Eben Pobee
Candidates for Shoreline City Council

By Pam Cross

The ballots have been received in the mail and it’s time to vote. Are you familiar with the uncontested candidates (other than Chris Roberts since he is currently a Councilmember)? 

Due to COVID, there wasn’t really an opportunity to hear more from the candidates, other than the environmental forum held by Save Shoreline Trees (Shoreline council candidates discuss the environment). 

These are questions that residents would likely have asked the candidates if there had been an opportunity. Questions and answers were provided separately so no comment is in response to another Candidate. The answers have been edited for brevity.

Are you vaccinated against COVID-19 and do you support a vaccine mandate for people who work for the City of Shoreline?

Eben Pobee, Laura Mork, and John Ramsdell are fully vaccinated and support the vaccine mandate for employees and volunteers.

Are you happy with current development along Aurora?

All candidates expressed general satisfaction, although John Ramsdell stated he is not happy that residents in these developments do not have adequate access to public open space.

Laura Mork commented that development along major arterials is important. Rapid Ride provides easy transportation, potentially reducing the number of miles driven in single occupant cars.

Are you happy with the Shoreline Police Department? Do you think we need more police officers?

John Ramsdell says he has had very positive interaction with the Shoreline PD while partnering with them on crisis calls when he was employed by Evergreen Hospital as a geriatric mental health crisis clinician. He also advocates for “always on” body cams and embedding mental health professionals on the force. 

No one saw an immediate need for increasing the size of the police department.

Do you think Shoreline should have another Enhanced Shelter?

Laura Mork: Each community needs to take action to assist vulnerable, homeless people, but no one community should be the only to provide these services.

John Ramsdell: I am encouraged by citizen reports during Council meetings that the current shelter is working well. If the same model is implemented and the current shelter continues to succeed, I would support a second shelter on Aurora.

Eben Pobee: I think an internal and external assessment should be conducted for the current one. After a detailed report has been reviewed, than an informed decision can be made. The decision needs to be made with the interest of the City and its residents at heart.

How do you feel about the King Co. Homeless Authority map plans to make Seattle’s Lake City Way “part of Shoreline”? And why do you think they are doing that?

Geographically it makes sense.

I can only assume the KCHA is trying to consolidate resources until the program is fully developed. 

Currently multifamily buildings being developed in the station areas offer studios and 1 and 2 bedroom options. Do you think multifamily buildings should have a 3-bedroom option?

John Ramsdell: Yes. The current 1&2 bedroom options are not affordable. This is particularly relevant to how affordable rates are determined in the current multi-family tax exemption (MFTE) program that incentivizes developers to set aside a certain number of units as affordable. The current formula that determines affordable rates in Shoreline is based on King County data. Because the rental data from Seattle and Bellevue are used in this calculation, “affordable” rental rates in the new apartment buildings on Aurora and elsewhere are essentially market rate, when comparing data in rentcafe.comand the City’s MFTE website. 

Laura Mork: On the Planning Commission, we have been told that city staff has received input from developers that 3 bedrooms are not economically viable for them to build. As a child, I lived for a year in a 3-bedroom apartment, so I am familiar with the concept. If this is an issue that is important to the community, the City should study this issue in more detail, and understand input from all sides of the issue. I do know that there are many creative building types being explored nationwide, and in Shoreline, in response to housing questions. 

Eben Pobee: I totally concur that multi-family buildings should have a 3-bedroom option as it may have some compelling benefits compared to what is currently offered for studios and 1&2-bedroom options. The flexibility to lower individual costs for students and/or individuals and the practicality of using one bedroom as an office for someone working remotely can only be achieved if we have a 3-bedroom option.

Are you in favor of our current residential zoning laws or would you like to see more multi-family buildings in the current residential areas?

Eben Pobee: I think the current residential zoning laws are very definitive, however, I do believe that we will have to make decisions to meet the needs of our residents. A lot of discussions need to happen for such a decision to be made, of course, with experts involved as well as community member involvement. 

John Ramsdell: I favor zoning incentives that encourage increased density on transit corridors, reducing our carbon footprint while preserving our neighborhoods. There is no reason that I can think of to up-zone residential areas that are not directly on transit corridors. Shoreline’s neighborhoods are what make our city so livable and attractive.

Laura Mork: This past year, the Planning Commission and the City Council had presentations regarding changes to the current codes that might provide additional options for “housing in the middle”. It is my understanding that city staff are studying this issue in more detail. Any specific change to these codes will include extensive opportunities for public participation, both at the Planning Commission and at the City Council, which I will be listening to the pro’s and con’s closely. 

Although running unopposed, these candidates will appreciate your support. 
Remember to vote by November 2nd.


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LFP Prop 1 in The Urbanist

Waterfront Park photo courtesy Windermere Real Estate

Lake Forest Park's Prop 1, on the current ballot, is getting some regional attention. 

This article was recently published in The Urbanist Magazine: "Lake Forest Park Ballot Measure Would Increase Park Access and Fund Safer Streets."

Read it HERE.



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Lake Forest Park council candidates answer questions at Third Place Commons candidate forum October 7

Monday, October 25, 2021

Both the candidate forum and the Prop 1 forum
are available online
By Pam Cross

On Thursday, October 7, 2021 Third Place Commons presented the Lake Forest Park City Council Candidate Forum, in partnership with the League of Women Voters - Seattle/King County. 

All seven candidates for the four city council positions participated, and shared their thoughts on a wide variety of topics including Prop 1, increasing affordable housing options, and the future of Town Center.

The forum was moderated by Chelsea Jordan from the League of Women Voters - Seattle / King County.

The candidates did not receive the questions beforehand and were given from 1 to 2 minutes to respond. The candidates were randomly called on so that no one had an advantage.

What three things would you do to improve or deepen a safe and strong community?

The most frequently mentioned was improving accessibility through a comprehensive sidewalk plan starting with the areas around schools. The cut-through traffic has to be addressed using traffic calming methods. The City needs to be more walkable and bikeable and needs more street lights.

Candidates expressed a need for expanded services to complement the RADAR program for those who need mental health assistance or suffer from domestic violence. There is potential funding for a North End crisis center that would provide the immediate help that RADAR cannot provide.

It was pointed out that local control of the Police and Fire Departments requires proper funding; we should pay attention to what the Northshore FD is planning; and gathering places are important and needed in LFP.

Other items that were raised included the need for cooling/warming stations because of the more extreme weather caused by Climate Change, increasing neighborhood involvement through a Neighborhood Watch program, and a locking mailboxes program partly subsidized by City.

The LFP Council has placed a property tax levy on the Nov Ballot to fund improvements for sidewalks, pedestrians and bicycles, parks increasing taxes $.59/1,000.

What is your position on Prop 1 and what would you do to support it if passes, and what are your thoughts on supporting parks if it does not pass?


The candidates were generally in support of Prop 1 with one dissenting view.

Maddy Larson (Position 5) put it this way: this is a complicated issue. Everybody wants it, but the mechanism is frustrating to voters that there’s not more specificity in what it would fund. And it does not have a time limit to end this tax. We need to start somewhere - we need to start making progress on these infrastructure issues. I will work with Council to make sure the funds are spent with a community voice present, projects are clearly planned and budgeted, and that we make meaningful progress. If it doesn’t pass, we will have to find another funding source.

All of the candidates commented that funding was the area of most concern. They recognized that we need to make the investments and until we have some money to invest, no bank is going to bond us. Right now interest rates are low.

No one likes to raise taxes for the sake of raising taxes without compelling justification. These are the things voters support. There are very good safeguards built into Prop 1 so that funds will go into designated account and will be used only for pedestrian safety and parks. It can’t be raided for general purpose expenditures.

Semra Riddle (Position 1), who is currently on the Council and running unopposed, supports Prop 1. Resolution 1810 spells out how the funds will be spent. The money can’t be spent until there’s an implementation plan. Council is working on the implementation plan right now which requires work by staff, public outreach, and a public hearing as part of the normal process. We have tried other funding sources in the past for safe routes to schools and we have missed the mark every time. And these projects we’ve asked for are basically shovel ready. They’re just not big enough to rise to the top. If it doesn’t pass, we’re really going to have to think about how we’re coming back with a smaller levy because going out for grants and State money hasn’t been successful for these types of projects.

The dissenting opinion came from candidate Jon Lebo (Position 3).

I’m a strong supporter of parks, sidewalks and safety but I think we’re a bit premature. I have years of experience managing construction projects in the public sector. We’ve always put together a very detailed list of priorities and we’ve gone through a funding cycle and we have looked at sources, costs, and budget. I will vote no because I don’t think they’ve outlined enough detail in the priorities, the costs, and what they really want to achieve. There are many ways to provide safe access. The implementation plan should have been developed before going to the voters. You need to go to the voters with a strong program of what you’re going to do, and how you’re going to do it.

The next question: What is your vision for the future of Town Center Third Place Commons, and how would you achieve that?

Larry Goldman (Position 7) stated that the zoning regulations are a reasonable compromise by bringing in some residential with some affordable housing, but not so much that it overwhelms the infrastructure. We still need space for our Farmers Market, and community gathering spaces like we have now. There will be more opportunities for public input so we can balance affordable housing with a community focused center.

Other candidates mentioned that it’s a sensitive area because of the watershed. Some would like to see Town Center as a model for sustainable building, with lots of social services placed there, housing, and retail, and room for community gatherings. Use of solar, wind, and zero net carbon emissions are some ideas to model what we want to see in the rest of the community. The visibility to people outside the community lets them see what LFP is about. Our community wants a vibrant retail space with the character and feel of LFP. We need what is appropriate for LFP meaning low scale buildings, methods that improve the environment, more walkability - a place where people want to go. We need to find a developer that will do that.

A member of the audience asked: What concrete steps would you take about all of the noisy and racing cars?

All candidates agree that this is a big issue and needs to be a priority. It is critical to address this because it is in every neighborhood. We need to provide education in high schools and consider lobbying the state legislature for support in things like allowed signage.

Paul Sanford (Position 7) This is a big one. I think you have to start with police enforcement. We have a strong police force today but they are limited in where they can get and how quickly they can get there. I think we need to put together a special hotline or special conduit forum so people can directly contact a response at all hours of the day. A lot of concerns to address. We can look at cameras, and temporary calming traffic measures to disrupt these activities.

Tracy Furutani (Position 5). Agrees that data gathering is important and neighbors are the best way to get the information. We need one central repository to identify the area and emphasize those areas. We also have to decide whether this is local problem or a regional problem. If it’s regional, let’s partner with our neighbor cities to work on roads that lead into LFP.

Others pointed out that there are a couple of areas that are all known for racing. They are ripe for speed bumps - even temporary ones that are less expensive. Maybe the neighborhood would be willing to contribute to city funds. Let’s consider using inexpensive deterrents such as speed bumps, reducing the speed limits citywide, signage

In response to an audience question about affordable housing, the candidates supported ADUs because they provide a gentle increase in density. They also reduce the likelihood of loss of tree canopy. Another suggestion was cluster housing.

There were other questions from the audience as well as closing statements from the candidates. 

View the entire candidate forum HERE



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Lake Forest Park Council Candidate John Lebo

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Ballots were mailed October 16, 2021 for the November 2 general election.

Jon Lebo is running for council position 3, currently held by John Wright, who is retiring at the end of his term. Lebo's opponent is Stephanie Angelis

Jon Lebo
Jon's statement

Hi, I am Jon Lebo, I am running for Lake Forest Park City Council Position Number 3.

I am running because I want to make a positive contribution to people’s lives in Lake Forest Park.

Over these past several months, I have had the opportunity to talk with many of you as I walked around the diverse neighborhoods of Lake Forest Park. 

It is exciting to hear all the reasons why you love living in Lake Forest Park. I heard themes about what makes Lake Forest Park special - the forest and streams, the shared values of your neighbors and the community feeling in the neighborhoods.

I also heard your concerns about cars racing through the neighborhoods, the lack of sidewalks, the lack of lake access, concerns about housing opportunities, and homelessness in our community.

Together, I think we can work to find practical solutions to these issues. I bring my passion for Lake Forest Park, my energy, experience and practical common-sense approach to the council to make sure we are addressing your needs and spending your money wisely.

A little about me. I grew up here, attending Shoreline public schools starting with kindergarten at Lake Forest Park Elementary and graduating from Shorecrest High School. Go Scots!

Twelve years ago, I moved back to Lake Forest Park to raise our family and enjoy the amenities and character of the community.

I am an architect and project leader with 33-years’ experience in civic planning, design, and construction management.

I served as a volunteer member of the Lake Forest Park Planning Commission for 7 years, 3 as chair. I heard your concerns and opposed the developer desired 7-story apartment buildings in the Town Center. 

I worked collaboratively with the commission members to recommend to the council we retain the existing building height limits, improving open space, environmental, sustainability, and affordable housing requirements as part of the new Town Center code, and the council agreed.

Together, let’s continue to make Lake Forest Park the place where we, our children and our grandchildren all want to live, work, and play.

On November 2, vote for Jon Lebo, Lake Forest Park City Council Position number 3.

Thank you.

www.lebo4lfp.com

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Lake Forest Park Council Candidate Stephanie Angelis

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

Ballots were mailed October 16, 2021 for the November 2 general election.

Stephanie Angelis is running for council position 3, currently held by John Wright, who is retiring at the end of his term. Larson's opponent is Jon Lebo.

Stephanie Angelis
Stephanie's statement:

I am very excited to represent and serve the diverse populace of Lake Forest Park on our amicable City Council. Through ongoing community engagement opportunities I’ve received some amazing feedback and learned just how much residents care about the administration of this City we share. Please  remember that local elections matter because they impact people’s lives most directly. I hope to receive your vote as I conclude the campaign! 

As a child I was fortunate to attend Shoreline public schools, Parkwood and Einstein, graduate from both Shorewood and Shoreline Community College and culminate with an undergraduate environmental degree from the University of Washington. 

I have spent the bulk of my life in the surrounding community, enjoying parks and visiting the streams. I have worked directly with disenfranchised folks, spoken for unheard communities and advocated for needed changes for safety successfully. I have volunteered for almost ten years in community leadership and spent four years directly helping and advocating for those in most need. 

Out of college I performed energy efficiency  outreach for residents all over the state representing  utility programs. I was able to lead our team to exceed rebate uptake goals and expectations. My love for community education and connection has only grown with time. My service and commitment to our Lake Forest Park community deepen as we develop a shared future and verbalize the ethics of our little town together. 

The following will be my priorities in office:
  • Listen and Engage with Community Members 
  • Form a Strong Climate Action Plan to Support Vulnerable People from Extreme Weather 
  • Implement Required Regional Transitional Homeless Housing
  • Support our Parks, Sidewalks and Street Safety - Please Vote Yes on Prop 1!
Encourage Affordable Housing while Maintaining Environmental Ethics, Aesthetic and Sustainability Goals 

Please always feel free to share your comments with me online, by phone or in person. Hope you’ll join me at the final Parks Meetup and Talk events listed below! 

I hope to have your vote on November 2nd

✅ Stephanie Angelis, Lake Forest Park City Council Position 3. Thank You!

  • Parks Meetup and Talk - optional work party - 5 Acre Woods 10/23/21 10am-1pm
  • Halloween - please contact directly- 10/31/21

Stephanie@AngelisForLFP.com



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Lake Forest Park Council Candidate Tracy Furutani

Monday, October 18, 2021

Ballots were mailed October 16, 2021 for the November 2 general election.

Tracy Furutani is running for council position 5, currently held by Mark Phillips, who is retiring at the end of his term. Furutani's opponent is Maddy Larson.

Tracy Furutani
Tracy's statement

Dear fellow LFP residents,

Running for City Council and meeting so many people in our town has deepened my respect for the community in which we live. I am grateful to all of the people working on my community campaign, and to all of the new people I met who shared their ideas.

As a community you expressed your love of our natural environment, schools, small town feel, and sense of community and in this, I have found we are more alike in what we want than different. In order to sustain what we desire we will need to address the town center re-development, cut-through traffic, lack of affordable housing, better bus access, safe streets and walkways, and the climate crisis.

All of this is do-able, but it will require us as a community and City council to improve our communication which builds understanding and transparency. I want to establish new ways to improve communication so that citizens can have a dialog, not just our current 3-minute moment in council meetings. Communication between council and community is crucial as the council starts working on sidewalks and parks, affordable housing, and climate change mitigation all while keeping within our financial means.

Speaking of climate change, to meet King County’s goal of 50% greenhouse-gas reduction in 9 years, LFP needs a climate action plan. With my PhD in Geology and 25 years of teaching about the climate at North Seattle College, I have the skills that can be used to create this plan.

Interactions with our community, whether it has been through my volunteer work or on the campaign trail, has given me a greater appreciation of the talented, untapped resource of the residents of LFP, as well as the assurance that we as a community have the best interests for our environment and creating a safe, equitable town.

I am ready to work to represent your voices and together build a sustainable place to live for now and for future generations.

tracy4lfpcouncil@gmail.com
https://tracyforlfp5.com

Endorsements:

46th Democrats; LFP councilmembers Mark Phillips, Tom French, and Phillippa Kassover; Anne Stadler, Tony Angell, Lee Rolfe, Luanne Brown, George and Betsy Piano, Norman Lieberman, Jeff Jensen, Dana Campbell, Sara Betnel, Marty Ross, Sarah Phillips, Ken Kassover, Julie Hungar, Anne Udaloy, Linda and Ross Baarslag-Benson, Connie and Byron Barnes, David and Jean Farkas, Regina Fletcher, Nancy and Rob Graves, Armand Micheline, Brian and Ellyn Saunders, Maris Abelson, Amanda Royal, Sally Yamasaki, Dan Benson and many more...



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LFP Forums are now online


Watch the Lake Forest Park Prop 1 and City Council Candidate Forums On-Demand

Need help making your decisions on this year’s ballot? Third Place Commons can help.

On Thursday, October 7, 2021 Third Place Commons presented the Lake Forest Park City Council Candidate Forum. All seven candidates for four positions participated and shared their thoughts on a wide variety of topics including Prop 1, increasing affordable housing options, and the future of town center.

On Saturday, October 16th, Third Place Commons presented the Lake Forest Park Prop 1 Pro and Con Forum. The forum included presentations by both the Pro Committee (“Yes for Sidewalks, Safe Streets and Parks Campaign”) and the Con Committee (“Neighbors for a Sustainable LFP"), after which both sides fielded questions from the opposing side and the audience.

Both events were presented in partnership with the League of Women Voters to bring these important nonpartisan events to our local community.

Third Place Commons also gratefully acknowledges community members Mike Dee of the Lake Forest Park Citizens’ Commission and Anne Stadler for their help in putting together the Prop 1 Forum, which would not have happened without their support and partnership.

Now both forums are available to watch on demand on the Third Place Commons YouTube channel. Watch the forums here.

To get information about other upcoming events, including live music on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and Civic Saturday on October 30th, visit the Third Place Commons online calendar.

Third Place Commons – a community supported 501(c)3 nonprofit organization – has been building real community in the heart of Lake Forest Park for over 20 years. In addition to presenting its largest program, the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market, Third Place Commons now also fosters real community in digital space with TPC At Home programs.



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Lake Forest Park Council Candidate Paul Sanford

Saturday, October 16, 2021

Ballots have been mailed and should be arriving soon for the November 2 general election.

Paul Sanford is running for council position 7, currently held by John Resha, who is retiring at the end of his term. Sanford's opponent is Larry Goldman.

Paul Sanford
Paul's statement

My name is Paul Sanford and I’m running for Lake Forest Park City Council Position 7.

The council is like a team, and in January with incumbent retirements, 40% of the council will consist of new members. Additionally, a new council will be forming for the first time in the pandemic era.

When I reflected on those two dynamics, I immediately thought, “I can help with that.” For over 20 years I’ve worked in the technology industry. Every quarter, I build solutions across global teams, incorporate diverse opinions to reach consensus, deliver and monitor results, and report back to our stakeholders. 

My specialty is in accomplishing and scaling projects that have been on the wish-list for a long time but have never been completed.

Let’s get things done. As a father of two Kellogg Middle Schoolers who previously attended Brookside, I am committed to providing safe, walkable streets for everyone. I also want to prioritize park improvements including developing lake front access. I will leverage my business expertise and MBA to ensure the city successfully navigates complex financing instruments to accomplish these goals, while keeping the city on solid financial footing overall.

I have heard from you that you want the council to preserve the character of Lake Forest Park and our green heritage. You also want to be sure that all voices in our community are heard. You want to keep our neighborhoods safe and thriving. You want the council to be responsible stewards with the tax dollars the city receives. I share those priorities and will work toward those on the council.

I understand why Lake Forest Park is unique. When I saw Lake Forest Park, I thought to myself, “I’ve found what I had as a kid growing up in a small town in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.”

The green oasis that we have here is truly special. My wife, Carrie, and I moved to LFP so that our sons could have a similar experience.

I am asking for your vote so that I can work for you and your family on the city council. Let’s move LFP forward together!

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Paul Sanford
paulforlfp@gmail.com | www.paulforlfp.com



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CORRECTION: John Ramsdell's position on the Shoreline tree canopy was misstated

Friday, October 15, 2021

John Ramsdell, Shoreline council candidate
In our recent coverage of the environmental candidate forum for Shoreline City Council (Shoreline City Council candidates discuss the environment) John Ramsdell's position on the preservation of Shoreline's tree canopy was misquoted.

I was quoted as saying "Mr. Ramsdell said the City talks about a zero reduction in tree canopy, but acknowledged, regretfully, that’s probably not possible". 
Rather I recall saying that "...the City talks about a zero reduction in tree canopy, but acknowledged, regretfully, that’s not happening. 
I recall mentioning that I reviewed Shoreline's large tree removal policy that requires a permit for removing trees over 30 inches in diameter. I suggested that reviewing the permitting process would be an important step to preserve our old-growth trees. I also recall that Chris reiterated my idea at looking at the permitting process.

Ramsdell is running unopposed for position #1. His previous opponent, David Chen, is still on the ballot; however, he has withdrawn and moved to Portland, Oregon for a job.



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Lake Forest Park Council Candidate Maddy Larson

Ballots will be mailed October 16, 2021 for the November 2 general election.

Maddy Larson is running for council position 5, currently held by Mark Phillips, who is retiring at the end of his term. Larson's opponent is Tracy Furutani.


Maddy Larson
Maddy's statement

Dear LFP Residents,

I have appreciated the time so many of you have taken over the last few months to Zoom, talk on your doorsteps, email, meet over coffee, and walk together to share your insights and concerns about our community.

I’ve been moved by the love you have of our little city – and I share in those sentiments. It’s my sole motivation for running for LFP City Council. 

I’ve listened as you expressed your desire for sensible policies and plans that address speeding and increase pedestrian safety throughout our community – especially for getting our children to school and ourselves to public transportation. With similar conviction you, also, shared your desire for sound policies that improve our natural environment, climate resiliency, public safety, parks, and housing. On all counts, I’ve heard you loud and clear.

There wasn’t one neighbor who didn’t worry about the many pressures and demands that continue to come our way. In the face of these realities, you deserve a representative who will guide and manage these changes in ways that improve our environment and quality of life. That’s my vision for our city. 

As someone who has served the public in many roles -- as a science educator, non-profit leader, and volunteer Planning Commission member -- I know how to communicate, collaborate, and get things done. If you elect me to our city council, I will continue to reach out and listen to you as your representative. 

You can count on me to:

• Work with you to build on LFP’s legacy for the future. Together, we can ensure LFP continues to be a welcoming community and an exemplar of environmental sustainability and stewardship.

• Support balanced growth in scale with our small city, including affordable housing city-wide. I have a proven track-record when it comes to innovative, not bigger, city-wide development solutions.

• Actively protect and enhance our community assets, the things that make LFP unique: our community gathering places at Town Center and in our parks; our green spaces and trees; and our streams and lakefront.

• Commit to using our financial resources wisely, including managing our public services with efficiency.

• Advocate for safe walkways and traffic mitigation that reduce speeding and cut-through traffic in our neighborhoods.

This kind of leadership and stewardship will not only ensure LFP remains an amazing place for us to live – it will allow us to leave a positive legacy for future generations.

Maddylarson4lfp@gmail.com

https://www.maddy4lfp.com

MADDY IS ENDORSED BY: Current LFP City Councilmembers Lorri Bodi and John Wright, former LFP City Councilmembers Don Fiene and Jack Tonkin; All LFP Planning Commissioners; Council Candidates Paul Sanford and Jon Lebo; Community Leaders Mamie Bolender, Tyson Greer, Jim Halliday, Kim Josund, Barbara Sharkey, Randi Sibonga; AND MANY MORE OF YOUR LFP NEIGHBORS.



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