Former Highline School Board member Ed Pina distanced himself from political labels as he announced last week that he is a candidate for the Des Moines City Council.

"I'm neither ultra conservative nor ultra liberal," Pina declared. "I am not running with an agenda other than learning the facts on any issue and doing what is best for the residents of Des Moines."

Pina is running against first-term Councilwoman Maggie Steenrod and Robert Polwarth, who serves on the executive board of the 33rd District Democrats.

This is the only Des Moines council race that will be on September primary election ballot.

"I believe government exists to provide citizens with those critical services best provided by government," Pina added.

He promised to give priority to the police and to work closely with the fire, school, water, and library districts "to maintain and improved their services to our citizens," and to "maintain and improve streets, roads, and public transportation services to and within our city."

Pina praised efforts by the city and Port of Seattle to finalize plans for a mutually acceptable business park in Des Moines on the Port's former borrow site north of South 216th Street.

"I look forward to working with the rest of the City Council to maximize the Des Moines benefits and minimize adverse impacts," he said.

Among the challenges Pina said the city faces are the need "to capitalize on our marina and further develop its image as a waterfront community attractive to visitors and business.

"We need to become a 'place to go' for people and business. Also, we must expand such activities as our Waterland Parade and Festival."

Pina, a 38-year resident of Des Moines, served on both the school board for 12 years and the Des Moines Planning Commission, and was president of the Seattle King County Boys and Girls Clubs.

"I know how to work together with elected peers to find 'win-win' solutions that benefit our community," he said.