Appointed incumbent Edmonds City Councilwoman Kristiana Johnson faces a challenge in the Nov. 5 general election from Randy Hayden, who had been one of the applicants for the position, when it became vacant last year. Hayden was an unsuccessful Republican candidate last year against Democratic state Rep. Cindy Ryu.
Here are introductory statements from the two candidates:
Randy Hayden
We all agree that Edmonds is a great place to live!
As a general contractor for 16 years, I have experience running every aspect of a business. Just like you, I always want to give value and receive value in return. Here are some of the issues I will focus on as your representative. I want our city to be safe as well as beautiful. Public safety is my top priority, benefiting everyone. To enjoy our city we need to feel safe in it, let’s rehire laid-off police officers. To do this we need to look where cuts can be made in our budget. I would propose eliminating health care benefits to the city council. It’s a part time job. I’m against proposals for taller more condensed buildings in downtown Edmonds. Growth needs to be carefully managed so it does not devalue our city center. We need to keep that small town feel that is so important to keep bringing in tourism to our city.
I will represent you with compassion and responsibility I ask for your vote. Endorsed by Michael Plunkett, last elected councilman to this position, Councilman Benjamin Goodman Lynnwood, Councilman Ken Klein Arlington, Councilman Rick Frostier SeaTac.
Kristiana Johnson
It has been an honor to serve on the Edmonds City Council since my appointment in June 2012. I am seeking to retain my position so that I can continue to serve the citizens of Edmonds. I love Edmonds, and have deep roots in the community. I treasure the small town that I have known all my life. We now face some key challenges and have to work together to resolve them.
What I bring to the Council is a wealth of knowledge and experience. As a professional, I have worked in city, county and state government as a transportation and growth management planner. I have a B.A. in political science from Washington State University and a M.A. in city and regional planning from Rutgers University. As a volunteer, I have served on the Edmonds Planning Board, Citizens’ Economic Development Commission and Citizens’ Transportation Advisory Committee.
My constituents and colleagues recognize that I am open-minded, thoughtful and collaborative. I listen to all positions and carefully study the issues to find solutions. I have been endorsed by many residents and public officials. Our City Council needs experienced, independent thinkers. I respectfully ask voters to retain me on the City Council.
Evan Smith can be reached at schsmith@frontier.com.
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