The City of Des Moines is preparing for Nov. 7 – Election Day. The City Council has four open seats.

For Position 1, Anthony Martinelli is challenging incumbent, Mayor Matt Pina. JC Harris is running against incumbent Vic Pennington, who also serves as deputy mayor, for Position 3.

Melissa Musser, currently in Position 5, is not running for re-election. Traci Buxton and Harry Steinmetz are competing for her open seat. Dave Kaplan, Position 7, is also not running again. Chad Harper and Matt Mahoney are vying for the job.

At Westside Seattle, we asked candidates to answer a couple questions via email. We wanted to share their responses with you. 

MATT PINA

1. Why did you decide to run for the election?

The city was struggling financially and desperately needed to develop a vision and direction. I had been successful in my past service on the Highline School Board helping them to address many of the same issues. I have lived in Des Moines the majority of my life. It is a wonderful community that I am not willing to see fail.

In January 2016, I was selected as Mayor along with Vic Pennington as Deputy Mayor. That night we were told that Des Moines was 18 months from bankruptcy and the City Manager would be retiring in 8 months. This picture was not acceptable.

Under my leadership, with the partnership and joint commitment of the council, community and City administrative team we have changed the future of Des Moines. No stone was left unturned and all legal opportunities were reviewed. Our focus was to capture resources with as little impact to the City’s residents as possible. These have been difficult decisions, but had we not acted, Des Moines would have gone bankrupt.

This has been challenging, but the tides are changing positively.

This is part of what we have accomplished in the past 18 months.

· Passed a sustainable budget for the first time in over a decade – no longer looking at bankruptcy

· Ensured the structural revenue that supports City operations, Senior, Youth and Parks programs, and community support programs like the Des Moines Food Bank etc.

· Hired a new City Manager and restructured the city to a collective leadership model

· Added 6 new faces to our law enforcement team

· Joined the regional task force against violent crime

· Began a crime analytics program to aid in focused patrols

· Developed a new comprehensive policing model that is effectively reducing crime

· Established a nuisance abatement program to clean up derelict properties.

· Restarted the road paving program that has not been active in over a decade

· Worked with the Marina staff and tenants to address Marina finances, failing infrastructure and long term design issues (slips, floor layout etc.)

· Created a Citizens Aviation Advisory to address the challenges of living next to one of the fastest growing airports in the country, focusing on remediation before mitigation

· Created a Citizens Advisory Committee and focused on increasing City/Community communications

We have come a long way, but we are not there yet. I am running again to see that our progress continues and that we secure the livability, viability, sustainability and independence of the City of Des Moines for the long-term.

2. What do you think qualifies your for this position? How are your unique skills a good match for the job?

My education and certifications are as follows:

· Central Washington University, Seattle, WA - Bachelor of Science; Business Administration & Finance

· International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc. (ISC2) - Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Certificate/ID Number: 533403

· EC-Council – Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certification Number: ECC36187902869

· University of Washington, Seattle, WA - Data Communication Technologies Certification

· Seattle Pacific University\Boeing Computer Services, Tukwila, WA - Programming Technologies Certification

My community representation experience is as follows:

Mayor and Council Member, City of Des Moines, WA Elected 2009, Re-elected 2013

· 2016-Current Mayor

· 2012-15 Mayor ProTem/Deputy Mayor

· 2011-2016 Chair of Finance and Econ Committee

Board of Directors, Highline School District #401 Elected 1999, Re-Elected 2003, Retired 2007

· Board President 2004, 2007

· Board Vice President 2003, 2005, 2006

My experience with budgets, government requirements, revenues etc., along with long standing relationships/partnerships and a history of accomplishments is why I am uniquely qualified to serve. The City’s successes under my leadership over the past 18 months illustrate that I understand the issues, I’m willing to make difficult decisions and I genuinely care about representing those who elect me. Experience matters.

3. What are the most important issues facing Des Moines right now? How would you start to address them?

These are key issues that I have been addressing:

· Sustainability and protecting quality of life:

o Although we now have a sustainable budget (for the first time in over a decade) and are no longer looking at bankruptcy, we need to address the City’s aging (and in some cases failing) infrastructure. This council has reactivated a road paving program, addressed marina infrastructure issues, improved building maintenance and enhanced our parks.

Additionally, we have maintained our senior and youth service programs along with expanding our community services commitments.

The City is also active and often leads the discussions with SeaTac Airport, The FAA and other entities around addressing impacts to Des Moines Citizens due to our airport proximity.

· Public Safety:

o This council has added six additional police officers, implemented technological enhancements as workforce multipliers (working smarter with the resources we have), approved the city’s participation in a regional S.W.A.T. team and dedicated a detective to the Regional Violent Crimes Task Force focusing on the elimination of gang activities in South King County.

· Development of the city’s business base:

o I carefully consider and consult with businesses when a policy is suggested. It is important that I understand all sides of an issue. A recent example was a former City Manager’s proposal for a water/sewer utility tax at 11%. I listened to the citizens, businesses and the utilities. There was no appetite for a tax, but a franchise agreement would be considered. I personally worked with my elected utility counterparts as well as their administration and legal teams to develop a franchise agreement. The rate was at 6%, but all entities received benefit in the agreement saving the businesses and taxpayers significant cost. This was completed within 120 days and passed by all the involved councils and boards.

We are also in discussions with our local college and skills centers to encourage working training and certification programs.

Additionally, we are working with property owners throughout the city to encourage redevelopment that will be more inviting to new businesses.

· Community Engagement and Understanding:

o We have added several new communications strategies and supportive positions including a Director of Communications

o Created a Citizens Advisory Committee

o Improved content within the City Currents publication

o Provide comprehensive State of the City presentations and Community Roundtable discussions to groups and organizations

4. Why should voters choose you?

I am a long term resident, representative and champion of the Des Moines/Highline Community. My work has consistently been focused on community betterment and improved quality of life. My efforts have resulted in improved and stable budgets, new construction and city investment, economic growth, increased public safety, effective leadership with airport challenges and job creation.

I understand and value the role of business in providing the fuel for the economic engine that will provide us with long-term sustainability through consistent, structural revenue.

The City of Des Moines is about issues. We need to focus on fiscal solvency through economic development with emphasis on quality of life.

We are a city for ALL its residents.

Again Experience matters!

ANTHONY MARTINELLI

1. Why did you decide to run for the election?

I love Des Moines. I've lived in the city since I was 11, and I'm proudly raising two kids here. We're a great city, but there's a lot we can improve upon.

I'm running for city council because I believe that with a fresh set of ideas and a forward-thinking approach, we can become even greater without sacrificing any of our positive features.

Ideas like requiring tenants to be given at least a 60-day notice when their rent is going to be increased, giving families on a budget more time to plan, or look for a new place if need be.

Ideas like establishing a municipal broadband system, which would not only be a source of revenue for the city, but would offer residents a cheaper and faster option for high-speed internet. This would treat internet as a public utility, and end the near-monopoly held by Xfinity and CenturyLink.

And ideas like changing city policy to allow voters to choose their own mayor (currently the mayor is appointed by the city council), giving voters more control over their city government. I'm advocating for a system that makes the mayor a permanent, elected position, while retaining current restrictions such as a lack of veto power.

I also believe we can do a much better job in regards to public safety. We need to do everything in our power to increase funding for our police department, and make sure we seriously address the city's rise in crime, especially mail theft. This includes finding new sources of revenue to expand the police force (for example, a 5% citywide marijuana tax would result in roughly $500k in new revenue, allowing for the hiring of multiple new officers).

Finally, I'm running for city council to help improve transparency in our city government, which up until this point has been lacking.

2. What do you think qualifies your for this position? How are your unique skills a good match for the job?

As a member of this community for the majority of my life, as someone who has been actively involved in the political process for years, and as someone who has the energy and enthusiasm to fervently work towards positive change, I feel I'm uniquely suited for the position of city council.

I've previously served as a campaign manager and staffer for King County Councilmember Dave Upthegrove, where I was able to closely examine what it takes to be an effective lawmaker and leader. I also spent years working as the communication director for a nonprofit political committee, a position in which I worked closely with numerous lawmakers at all levels of government, and personally authored legislation. In addition, I've been a unanimously elected Precinct Committee Officer (PCO) since 2012.

3. What are the most important issues facing Des Moines right now? How would you start to address them?

Sadly Des Moines has experienced a recent increase in crime. This is particularly true in regards to mail theft and vehicle break ins. We need to swiftly increase our police presence, and put a larger focus on these issues. Our police are doing a great job, but lack the resources needed to keep the city as safe as it could be.

An increase in the number of individuals and families in poverty is also a large and important issue. To help address this I support raising the minimum wage, helping to ensure that everyone has a reasonable wage. I also support increasing affordable housing, and as mentioned in a previous question, I support establishing a municipal broadband system; this would especially help those who are low-income by greatly decreasing the cost of what has become a necessity in our society.

Des Moines has also been lacking in establishing community unity. This can be helped by working to establish one, or several, centralized, multi-activity community centers, by increasing funding for Parks, Recreation & Senior Services, and by enhancing the business climate.

4. Why should voters choose you?

I of course have my views and ideas regarding what it will take to improve our city, some of which I've already mentioned . But more importantly, if elected to the city council I will make sure to always listen to the opinions and ideas of my constituents. I will hold consistent office hours throughout the week, and will personally respond to all calls and e-mails, allowing anyone to connect with me and share their views. I think this type of community-to-leadership connection has been lacking thus far in our city, and with your support I hope to change that.

JC HARRIS

1. Why did you decide to run for the election?

Des Moines is a beautiful city that has lost its way. To its credit, the current govt. has turned the city's terrible finances around. But it has done so largely by partnering with the Port of Seattle, even though the Port is the prime cause of the pollution, low property values and severe poverty we are now experiencing. We need to move -away- from our relationships with the Port and again focus on making Des Moines a great place to raise a family, run a small business and to visit, shop, explore and enjoy.

2. What do you think qualifies your for this position? How are your unique skills a good match for the job?

I have run small businesses and I understand the needs of the typical employer in our area. I also worked as a software engineer, designing large management systems for Fortune 500 logistics. I understanding accounting and how to work with large institutions like the Port Of Seattle. Also, most people do not full appreciate the -time- it takes to do the job of council member. I am semi-retired and I have the -time- to do the job properly.

3. What are the most important issues facing Des Moines right now? How would you start to address them?

1. We must work to reduce the number of flights from Sea-Tac Airport over Des Moines now. There is simply no more important long-term issue for our residents, businesses and the environment. The over-use of the airport in the past decade has given residents some of the highest cancer rates in the entire nation and depressed property values in a city with one of the most beautiful footprints in the entire region. The noise and pollution make it hard to attract the kinds of businesses, residents and visitors we should be recruiting. Worst of all, the Port of Seattle has ambitious plans to actually increase this pace of growth. This is creating a vicious circle that will further encourage the industrialization of Des Moines. We are rapidly heading towards a future where the city has a wonderful balance sheet, but where no one but the poorest actually want to live. That is a ridiculous waste of one of the most beautiful places in Puget Sound.

The city can address this by lobbying the Port for a cap on daily flights, re-balancing runway use to provide daily quiet times as we used to take for granted and a curfew at night so residents can get some sleep.

2. Diversifying the city’s revenue stream. The current government has adopted a strategy of partnering with the airport and encouraging airport-related businesses to locate in Des Moines. This is creating a mono-culture and a vicious circle. As more of the city’s structural revenue depends on the airport, the less it will become possible to limit flights. This strategy means that we are dependent for our survival on a system that actually makes our residents sick!

Instead, we should be actively working to recruit small businesses that are based on our Marina, our great location and the assets of our college.

3. Long-term city planning. For far too long, we have simply let developers decide how and what would be built in Des Moines, with little regard for the needs of residents and making the city a place with a long-term future. In the last few years the city has rescinded ordinances which required builders to provide noise insulation and which protected neighborhood from poor landlords on rental properties, eliminated the position of code enforcement officer and allowed developers to build without regard for existing homeowners. We now have a situation where most children are not within walking distance of a park.

We should engage residents, urban planners as well as developers to maintain the city’s unique character. These discussions should focus on renovating and connecting our downtown with the Marina and building new parks so that all residents and children live within walking distance of a great place to gather and play. Part of this strategy should be to attract residents who work in the Seattle and Eastside tech hubs but who have been priced out of those housing markets.

4. Crime due to mental health and addiction issues. The vast majority of people sent to the SCORE facility have a mental health or addiction component; chronic issues that jails are not designed to handle. We cannot arrest our way out of this problem. Unfortunately, the state has dropped the ball on both these issues and left cities to fend for themselves.

I would work to develop regional partnerships to build the -right- kinds of programs and facilities to combat these chronic problems. And together, we need to actively lobby the State Legislature to develop a new large-scale center for the treatment of drug and mental health issues.

5. We need to dramatically improve participation from residents. Less than 30% of eligible residents voted in the last election and the average age of those voters was almost 52! This is unacceptable for a functioning democracy. Very few residents engage with the city unless they absolutely have to. I run into so many talented residents who do not contribute either because they are unaware of opportunities to serve or because they feel their input is neither needed nor wanted. We must reverse that trend.

We can correct these problems by improving the way we communicate with the community at large. We can improve the city’s web site, social media and print communications and speed permitting; that’s the easy part. But more than that, we must also create more and better opportunities for residents and small business to engage with the city. We need to dramatically increase the number of public meetings to provide residents and small businesses the opportunity to be heard -before- big decisions are made.

4. Why should voters choose you?

I've lived in Des Moines for thirteen years and been an active participant in city politics for almost the entire time. I -know- Des Moines. I know the needs of small businesses that do not feel well supported and bogged down with paperwork, slow permitting and fees. I know what families want and how to properly showcase the city to the young families we should be courting from the North and East Side. I will be a tireless advocate for the city against the over-use of the airport which has caused so much damage to our city. And unlike some council members, I fully appreciate the time and effort it takes to do this job well. I am committed to doing that work and making Des Moines safer, cleaner and more inviting for residents, businesses and visitors.

VIC PENNINGTON

1. Why did you decide to run for re-election?

This council has been through a lot during the last four years. The direction of the city has changed from rapidly moving toward bankruptcy to a stable and sustainable city. This took the establishment of partnerships, community group engagement along with hard work and focus we have created the foundation for a long-term viability and city independence while maintaining the positive and livable waterfront community we all value.

This level of work must continue, I’m running for a second term to continue the vitally important work of bringing our city back to sustainable and long-term health. Building now so future councils, city leaders and citizens will not be in the same difficult situation.

As we continue our mission I will focus on updating ordinances and zoning while evaluating opportunities that will create both a sustainable future and reduce the financial weight on the city’s residents. To do this effectively we’ve had and will continue to have many conversations with the community, local businesses, property owners, real estate brokers, government representatives, continuing to listen and learn. The result is updated zoning and building codes making it easier and more cost effective for businesses, property owners and citizens to maintain and update their investments.

2. How are your unique skills a good match for the job? Why have you been an asset to the council so far?

I am a Proud Member of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), I am a Charter Member and Union Organizer of Des Moines Professional Fire Fighters Local 3396. I am currently Active Retired Member of IAFF Local 2024. I bring to the council 43 years of political and government experience as I am the Assistant Fire Chief for South King Fire & Rescue serving the Cities of Des Moines, Federal Way, Unincorporated King County and under contract areas of Cities of Auburn and Normandy Park.

I began my involvement in local politics over 25 years ago when I Recruited James A. Fossos to run for Fire Commissioner.

I began my personal political activism when I was elected in 2011 as a Water Commissioner for King County Water District 54 As a Water Commissioner, I supported the installation of large water main upgrade through Des Moines allowing for adequate fire flow to support the development of additional residential and commercial construction.

In 2013 I was elected to the Des Moines City Council. As a member of the Finance and Economic Development Committee and as a Council Member and Deputy Mayor I have been very active

changing zoning, making sensible development fees and forwarding ordinances that support the development of business, affordable and market rate housing; I bring a unique prospective to this council relative to the street level social needs, public safety needs and lack of social equities that most people don’t see or are just unaware to the level it occurs in their community. I have worked to make Des Moines a desirable community to live in, do business both in and with.

3. What are the most important issues facing Des Moines right now? How would you start to address them?

1. (1)  The most important issue facing Des Moines is the continued financial sustainable assuring the continued existence of the City of Des Moines. As a member of the Council leadership team I have, and will continue working with the City administration to maximize efficiency through reorganizing functions in the city and reduce redundancies. We have more diversified revenues, increased safety and a good start to long term financial sustainability I will continue to monitor these revenue streams to ensure there is not wasteful spending and that our new revenues become stable and consistent. Building an economic base now so future council, city leaders and citizens will not be in the same difficult situation.

2. (2)  Continue to promote business development including the redevelopment of the Pacific Ridge Marina District, and the Marina Floor. I will continue to support housing projects like the Adriana Senior Apartments in the Marina District creating a neighborhood and community draw to our downtown business district helping to develop an increasing local demand for goods and services.

3. (3)  As a member of the Finance and Economic Development Committee, I reviewed several ordinance procedures to make it easier for individuals and business to invest in and upgrade their homes and business. With a result of helping to increase the value of their homes, business and making Des Moines a highly desirable city to work, play live and conduct business in.

4. (4)  I voted for the City to move forward to create an Aviation Advisory Committee. We have worked actively to defend our City from the adverse impacts of Sea-Tac airport expansion. I was working and living in the in Des Moines during the Third Runway fight; I now am in a role that can influence and fight for the Port of Seattle to address the noise, frequency of flights and health impacts they are now creating with their proposed expansion. I am proud to have been able to help facilitate a meeting between “Quiet Skies Des Moines” and City of Des Moines leadership. This was a very productive meeting that opened communication and provided guidance as to roles of Quiet Skies Des Moines and city leadership.

4. Why should voters choose you?
January of 2016 was a defining moment in time for the City of Des Moines;

• A leadership change occurred in the city I became Deputy Mayor and Matt Pina became Mayor.

• The council was informed the city would be bankrupt by August of 2017

• City Manager Tony Piasecki announced his retirement effective August 2016.

  As your Deputy Mayor I went to work with Mayor Pina and then Assistant City Manager and now City Manager Matthias;

• Finding several new sustainable revenue streams

• Working with City Council members they implement changes over the course of the

  next eleven (11) months that stimulated and support’s economic development and

  stopped the downward spiral of the City.

• Today in 2017 our city is on a soiled financial footing:

  The results of this leadership:

  • The change of in direction from a city that was rapidly moving toward bankruptcy to a stable and sustainable city.

  • A balanced budget, for the first time in over 10 years that includes financial reserves at levels required by the Washington State Auditor’s Office.

  • No use of one-time money for ongoing operating costs.

  • Economic development bringing thousands of new jobs to Des Moines that will increase the retail and dining sector of the City

  • Police Patrol Teams funded to full strength with four new faces in our Police department.

Implementation of policing technology and crime analysis to make our police more efficient and to get bigger bang for the buck for our police resources. Establishing stronger partnership and interagency agreements with neighboring and regional police assets to address crime across the board. Enhancing our Emergency management capacity through increased training and partnerships with other emergency management resources

Improving our ability to deliver excellent quality of life programs through our Parks and Recreation Services and Senior Center.
Initiating a Road Paving program for the first time in over ten years. Establishing a Citizen’s Advisory Committee to make certain that “your voices are heard!”

Hired a new City Manager committed to efficient and smart use of tax payer dollars by creating new efficiencies through the budget process and reorganization of the city administration.
Implementation of long-term budget forecasting to assure the City stay on a sustainable financial trajectory.

Effective and solvent outcomes in labor contract negotiations.

I’m not here
hard work and to continue to be part of the leadership team that was willing to weather the storm and help guide council’s successes during the hardest of times

I’m running to continue the vitally important work of bringing our city back to sustainable and long-term health. Building now so future councils, city leaders and citizens will not be in the same difficult situation.

As we continue our work of building long-term sustainable health I will focus on updating ordinances and zoning while evaluating opportunities that will create both a sustainable future and reduce the financial weight on the city’s residents. To do this effectively we’ve had and will continue to have many conversations with the community, local businesses, property owners, real estate brokers, government representatives, continuing to listen and learn. The result is updated zoning and building codes making it easier and more cost effective for businesses, property owners and citizens to maintain and update their investments. 

TRACI BUXTON

1. Why did I decide to run for election:

I am running for election because I love this city and I want to see it not only become healthy, but thrive as a charming destination in our region.

In order to do this, our city needs good citizen leaders who are passionate about this community, able to communicate thoughtfully, capable of careful and impartial research, and who have the fortitude to stand for what is right.  

I am that kind of leader!  

2. What qualifies me for this position and why am I a good match for the job:

I have lived in this community for 35 years.  I began by taking a position as a resident manager for a 60-unit residential property in 1982 as a newlywed, with my husband.  I have been immersed in successful property management, real estate investment and office administration since that time.  Along the way, I have also gained valuable experience:

• in the hospitality industry,

• in the insurance industry,

• as a fitness professional,

• as a mental health professional,

• as a retailer,

• in non-profit development,

• in the hospitality industry, and

• as a contractor.

These experiences give me a broad base of business experience to bring to the table as a councilmember.

3. What are the most important issues facing Des Moines right now and how would I address them:

The most important issue facing Des Moines right now is not globally most important, but it is the most essential component of our CIty's future sustainability, fiscal health, and vibrant economy;  and that is economic development - with a goal of creating a destination community.  

We address this in several ways:

• Engage the businesses and community to discover desires, get input about solutions, retrieve feedback about impacts of differing ideas and solutions

• Address derelict properties through engaging with landlords, negotiating solutions, code amendment and enforcement, and negotiating control through purchase, sale and lease agreements.

• Engage partners in the design, feasibility and finance of community, private and partnership projects (buildings or features) that enhance our City and attract new businesses and partners.

• Work to encourage attractive and accessible buildings and community features that create synergy through connecting our parks, businesses and Marina - especially in our downtown/Marina core.

• Work with interested partners in streamlining our planning and permitting processes to create affordability.

Secondly, community safety is the key to peace.  Creating safety in our community is manifold:

• It is essential to stand behind our Police and Firefighters and ensure they feel supported and able to do their job well with the equipment and team they need.

• Engage and encourage citizens to connect and become active participants in protecting our neighborhoods through on-line communities as well as organizations like Blockwatch.

• In addition, creating safety is not only the job of our protectors, but also the task of agencies that provide education and transitional services to those coming out of lives that participate in crime.  Not only can our city offer financial support to some of these agencies, but it would be wise to continue to engage with, encourage, and create and multi-city network of non-profit human service agencies.  An organized network would reduce futility and create more efficient assistance to those in transition.

• Thirdly, the protection of environment is also an essential element of safety.  Which brings me to the last item I will address:  The environment.

Sustainability in a city is a function of the environment every bit as much as it is the budget.  Our city has a few environmental challenges:

• We are encumbered with sound pollution because of SeaTac Airport.  It will be a continual challenge to press the Port of Seattle and the FAA to regulate flights to a liveable level, limit or simply eliminate cargo over our city, place a curfew on passenger flight activity, and plan for another airport.

• We are threatened with air pollution because of the Sea Tac Airport and our research will be ongoing in an effort to request for mitigation.

• Our urban tree canopy is continually threatened by different forms of development and economic progress.  It would be wise to create policy that not only mitigates for lost canopy, but works to create new canopy as we move forward.

4. Why should voters choose me?

I have the life, business, and real estate experience that will be essential in the coming years as our city moves forward in revitalization efforts to create a sustainable destination community.  The real estate piece is particularly valuable as the council is losing its real estate expertise when Melissa Musser retires her seat.

In addition, I am a genuine political moderate with a love for the truth and best solutions regardless of a party line.   Along with integrity, I also have a temperament that appreciates de-escalation, and I am committed to minimize polarization which can have an effect on our community and its ability to move forward.

HARRY STEINMETZ

1.Why did you decide to run for the election?

My decision to run for the Des Moines City Council was two-fold. First, the current Council has made a number of decisions that I disagreed with and these decisions seemed to be disconnected from the neighborhoods that were effected by those decisions. Fundamentally, the council’s decision’s to put a methadone clinic and an involuntary commitment facility 600 feet from my sons elementary school made me want to get involved. I started attending council meetings and gained a much deeper understanding how the city was being run and decided I could help make the city better. Second, the incumbent for position 5, Mellissa Musser, decided not to run for reelection and asked me to run for her seat.

2. What do you think qualifies your for this position? How are your unique skills a good match for the job?

I have been an attorney for 27 years. I have worked in government and in the private sector. As a former prosecutor and the Staff Counsel to the Washington State Senate Judiciary Committee, I have tremendous experience in criminal justice issues and understand how to keep the community safe. I have been the Managing Partner of my law firm for 14 years and understand the fundamentals of budgeting and running a business. I have been active in the Bar Association and have been involved in improving the courts including having been appointed by the Pierce County Council to the Criminal Justice Taskforce and was invited by the Superior Court Judges to participate in their Judicial Management Initiative which reduced the backlog in the court by over 10,000 cases. I have been a member of the Joint Legislative Taskforce on Domestic Violence and worked with other members on coordinating the various protective orders to assure continuity throughout the system.

I also worked for the Washington Association of Housing and Services for the Aging representing the interests of not-for-profit senior housing and long-term care providers including Westly Homes and Judson Park in Des Moines. As the Director of Government Relations, I was the association’s representative in the legislature dealing with legislation regarding the Medicaid payment system, staffing requirements and resident safety. I was actively involved in regulatory issues issues with DSHS including an complete re-write of the regulations governing Assisted Living Providers.

I know how to work with a large and diverse groups to come to an solution that everyone can accept. Further, I understand what government can and can’t do well. I believe I bring an wealth of experience and level of professionalism that can benefit the council as well as the citizens of Des Moines.

3. What are the most important issues facing Des Moines right now? How would you start to address them?

First, Des Moines needs to assure that the development of the Marina and the downtown core are coordinated and benefit each other. In conjunction with the development of businesses along Pacific Highway that will provide a broader tax base to better provide parks and police for the citizens of Des Moines.

Secondly, the City needs to practice sustainable budgeting. For many years, the City would fill budget holes with one time money that was not sustainable in the following year. With low reserves, this created an annual budget crisis and, as a result, the city was under the constant threat of receivership by the State Auditor’s office. Last year the Council finally passed a sustainable budget and I will vote to continue that practice in the future. Des Moines has one of the lowest per capita tax revenues for a city over 10,000 in the state and we need to expand the tax base to bring it up. This will allow the City to better improve the livability of Des Moines for all it’s citizens.

Thirdly, the city needs to be more transparent and open with the decision making process. The City needs to improve its communication and needs to be more inclusive in it’s process.

4. Why should voters choose you?

The voters should chose me because I have the experience and qualifications to be effective on the City Council. I understand that that part of running the city is being able to effectively negotiate with our neighbors and the Port of Seattle. My background means I don’t have to learn on the job.

Additionally, my vision of the future of Des Moines is that development need to happen while retaining the small town feel of the city. I think we should look to Edmonds, Gig Harbor and Poulsbo for examples of how to successfully develop a small town with a beautiful marina. Further, we need to avoid trying to create an urban feel by emulating Seattle landmarks. Des Moines needs to retain its own identity.

We need to make sure that the City is open and affordable to all. South King County is becoming more diverse and we to be open to include all our residents in the operating of the City and consistently reach out to them. We have a great future ahead of us and everyone needs to share in that future.

5. Could you please provide a high resolution photo to run with the article ?

CHAD HARPER

1. Why did you decide to run for the election? I decided to run for the Des Moines City Council because I felt I had a track record of getting things done for our community through my community involvement, and I felt like it was time for someone who isn’t beholden to the status quo to help lead our city.

2. What do you think qualifies your for this position? How are your unique skills a good match for the job? I was proud to co-chair last year’s successful school bond which will result in a brand new elementary school in Des Moines. I’ve been a member of the Des Moines Human Services Commission for nearly 2 years, and we’ve made great strides in providing funding to services that residents of our community depend on. And I’ve been a Trustee for the Highline Schools Foundation. As council members, we have to listen to diverse points of view and come up with consensus on the best way to move forward in a way that benefits the most people while still being responsible with taxpayer money. That’s exactly what my community service has been about.

3. What are the most important issues facing Des Moines right now? How would you start to address them? The most important issue is that our fellow citizens feel disconnected from their government. We can start to bring new people and ideas into the decision-making process by having town hall meetings in different parts of the city. We should meet people where they are - not expect them to always come to us. The other issues are public safety and the marina redevelopment. It’s time to move forward on redeveloping the marina to bring new revenue to our city so that we can fully fund our police department. People have the right to feel safe in their homes, and I don’t get the feeling from voters that they do.

4. Why should voters choose you? I think my record of community involvement and the fact I’m the only candidate in my race with track record of getting results for the people of Des Moines sets me apart from my opponent. Plus, it’s time for new voices to be at the table who aren’t part of the status quo in our city. I’ve lived in this community longer than my opponent, and I’m familiar with the stakeholders and other civic leaders to hit the ground running on Day 1. I’m proud that many of those people have endorsed my campaign such as Congressman Adam Smith, County Executive Dow Constantine, KC Sheriff John Urquardt, our state legislators, school board members, teachers, business owners, and leaders from across South King County.

MATT MAHONEY

My name is Matt Mahoney and I am a candidate for Des Moines City Council Position 7. Since my wife Beverly (Bev) and I made the decision to run for office in December of 2016 we have dedicated ourselves to getting to know our city and our neighbors by building relationships. This has been an incredible process and we have found the Des Moines community and its people to be amazing. We have been welcomed with open arms and are very thankful and happy to be here. We are very fortunate to be part of this great city and thank you all!

Who am I?

I am:

• A Washington Native
• A US Army Veteran
• A Former Fire Commissioner PCFD #26 and Volunteer Firefighter
• A member of the Des Moines Citizen’s Advisory Committee
• A trustee at our North Hill Community Club
• An avid scuba diver and love the access to the shorelines of our city
• A father to 4 children and 4 grandchildren
• An active volunteer in the community along with my wife Bev
• A Nordstrom employee as a merchant for nearly 20 years. Prior to that I worked at a Native American Fireworks Wholesaler (Salish Fireworks) and Crystal Mountain Ski Resort
• Very passionate about the city of Des Moines!

Why am I running for office?

1. To continue supporting the work of our current council ensuring our city remain on the path of sustainability by building a strong business base – This is the honest way to meet the needs of our city.
2. Revitalization of the Downtown in conjunction with the Marina, Redondo and the use of our commercial property on Pacific Highway – Realizing the vision we all know our city will be. Creating a great economic engine that provide sustainable revenues sources, living wage jobs and opportunities for our residents to thrive and enjoy our community.
3. Support the needs of our 9 Des Moines Neighborhoods (Central Des Moines, Marina District, North Central, North Hill, Pacific Ridge, Redondo, South Des Moines, Woodmont and Zenith. – Improved City Services, Infrastructure Improvements, Public Safety, Crime Prevention, Parks and Recreation, and Airport issues.
4. Build Community – Connect our diverse population together thru community activities, meeting places and relationship building.

Who Endorses my candidacy?

• 6 Current City Councilmembers – Pina, Kaplan, Musser, Back, Bangs, and Pennington.
• Our Local Des Moines Police Officers Guild
• Our South King County Professional Firefighters Local #2024
• The Affordable Housing Council thru the Master Builders Association
• Our South King County Real Estate Professionals
• Our Central Puget Sound Carpenters Local 30
• A large number of Des Moines Businesses
• A formidable contingent of Des Moines Residents (see all at bottom of this letter)

Why cast your vote for Matt Mahoney for Des Moines City Council Position 7?

4 Reasons: Knowledge, Experience, Maturity and Commitment:

Knowledge: Understanding the city and its challenges, and the history behind it!

1. A life time of learnings, experiences and applications down a well-traveled life path.
2. I attend all the community meetings where I listen, learn and participate in discussions concerning our issues, our history, our culture, and most importantly our future.
3. I research our city continually. For example, on the light rail commute into Seattle I would often be caught reading the Des Moines Comprehensive Plan, Capital Improvement Projects, reviewing the budget or studying our history.
4. I spend time with key leaders and citizens throughout the community, discussing various points of view concerning our city.

Experience: This background prepares me to execute thought out, purposed and decisive duties!

1. I have 30 years of business experience – I have a record of growing business, reducing costs, budgeting and coaching and mentoring talent from all walks of life.
2. A background in development where environmental concerns are involved, i.e. 25-year development plan in conjunction with the US Forest Service and environmental firms for improvements such as the new Gondola and Upper Mountain Lodge while at Crystal Mountain. This experience provides insight to similar challenges we face while tying the Marina to our downtown and along with other development in our community.
3. Leadership – Learned Confidence by listening, connecting, being informed and influencing others.
4. Customer Centric Focus – As a Nordstrom employee, I understand and demonstrate the value of serving the customer and can translate that understanding into practical ways for our city to better service our businesses and citizens.

Maturity: Level headed, wisdom based common sense!

1. Composed and Honorable Conduct
2. Good Decision-Making Skills
3. Effective and absent of overreaction
4. Honest and Transparent
5. A get it done philosophy

Commitment: Demonstration of active engagement in the community over time

1. I attend City Council meetings, missed two in past 2 years.
2. I show up and participate at community meetingof every type – Marina meetings, Pool meetings, Port and Airport forums, etc.
3. Bev and I attend every community gathering we possibly can, i.e. Charity Events, Parades, Art Walks, Music events and so much more.
4. I often speak in public forums of our concerns as residents – effects of the airport, crime, mail theft, traffic, safety concerns, etc.

During this campaign, Bev and I take the relationships that we’ve built with this city and many of our residents very seriously and we want to continue those relationships because together we can realize Des Moines bright future So, I humbly ask for the opportunity to be part of the leadership that will steer our city’s future. From a beautiful and quaint Redondo, thru a lush tree filled Woodmont down the path that takes us to our unique Zenith, South and Central Des Moines neighborhoods to a diverse and opportunistic Pacific Highway into our new Business Park (North Des Moines) up to North Hill and ending in our revitalized down town connected to our Marina, we will be the city to be envied!

If hard work, common sense, action and integrity are what you look for in a candidate, then I submit myself as someone who is committed to be that candidate.

Vote for Matt Mahoney for Des Moines City Position 7 this November 7th!

Be sure to visit my website at www.mattmahoney4desmoines.org