Mr. Layden, Proposition #1 is a GREAT idea for SeaTac, not a bad one!

As an avid political junkie over the last decade, observing, analyzing, and offering my opinion when asked, as the spouse of the Deputy Mayor, I felt it was imperative for all spouses of the Council to remain behind the scenes regarding the Change of Government until the SeaTac citizens voiced their opinions with their vote on November 3rd.

After watching in incredulity as the spouses of the Angle Lake Council members fight to keep their husband’s or wife’s super majority power base for the Angle Lake elite and their local Angle Lake political advisors, I feel compelled to speak out on behalf of the strong Mayor form of government.

FACT: 85% of Washington cities have selected the more economical Mayor/Council form of government. The average City Manager budget is $8 million more than the elected Mayor budget.

FACT: Corruption is not based on forms of government, but on the dishonesty and lack of integrity of the City Manager and/or official. It is the citizen elected mayor that actually prevents corruption. It separates the executive power from the legislative power.  Mr. Layden, it is insulting that you and your group believe that the citizens of SeaTac lack the intelligence to elect a Mayor with the commitment and experience to represent them rather than one that is corrupt and looking for power.

FACT: You CAN have both a powerful Mayor and Council. A strong elected Mayor and an elected Council will offer true checks and balances, giving greater transparency to the citizens.

FACT: Contrary to your claim, changing the form of government in SeaTac will not retard or delay city improvements nor disrupt current services. It WILL ensure that city improvements and services are equitable in all neighborhoods and for all citizens, and best of all, regardless of where they live.

As a 30-year resident, business owner, concerned citizen and taxpayer of SeaTac, I support the Change of Government.

A City Manager has no political power and does not represent us, but a strong Mayor and council elected by the citizens have the political power to represent us, who are the city! The citizens now pay two lobbyists $10,250 a month to represent the city.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg! What more needs to be said?

Aileen Fisher
SeaTac