I write in support of Scott Murphy for Everett City Council. Comments by his opponent Jackie Minchew at an Oct. 15 candidates forum illustrate an important difference in their views.
Minchew took a cavalier attitude toward Boeing and said that, if elected, he would not focus on supporting Boeing. He would allow other leaders in the state to focus on Boeing. This is in effect abdicating his responsibility as a councilman.
In contrast, Murphy said it’s up to the city council to help make Everett the kind of city where Boeing wants to do business. In particular, he noted that having the next generation 777X sited in Everett would create an important hinge point for the city’s economic future. Murphy’s plan is to also attract small and medium-sized businesses by supporting regional transportation improvements, limited regional air service at Paine Field and WSU’s expansion at Everett Community College.
Minchew would focus on strengthening local businesses already here to prevent Everett from becoming too reliant on Boeing. What is the criteria Minchew is focusing on for strengthening Everett local businesses? Hello! Is Minchew aware that Boeing is already the largest employer in the city? Kimberly Clark shut down in 2012 and over 700 employees lost their family-wage jobs. It would be catastrophic for Everett if Boeing started leaving piece by piece.
I would rather have a leader with business experience. Scott Murphy knows how to set goals and has the ability to forecast future needs and expenditures.
Sharon Nelson
Everett
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