EDMONDS — Edmonds Mayor Gary Haakenson is claiming victory in his bid to be the city’s top elected official for an unprecedented third term.
Haakenson, co-founder of Everett-based Zumiez Inc., held a sizable lead late Tuesday over City Councilwoman Mauri Moore in the race for Edmonds mayor.
For Haakenson, the polling results are an affirmation of the job he has done in office.
“I’m humbled to become the only three-term mayor in the history of Edmonds,” said Haakenson, who held an election-night party at a city restaurant. “I thank the voters of Edmonds for their support and the affirmation of the work of my staff and I over the last eight years. Together, we look forward to the next four years.”
If Haakenson’s lead holds, he will face the task of finding new revenue for the city of 40,560 — the second-largest city in Snohomish County. Over the years, revenues have stagnated while expenses have climbed.
The mayor is paid an annual salary of $101,400. The city has 271 full-time employees and a budget of $70.6 million.
Moore spent the evening with her supporters, taking down campaign signs. She said she was thankful for the chance during her campaign to discuss the need for better long-term financial planning at City Hall.
“It’s not over of course yet, but I certainly have had fun in this campaign and believe I have brought a lot of issues to light,” Moore said. “I had a wonderful public discussion with the people of Edmonds.”
In the Edmonds City Council races, two incumbent councilmen were in close races with a pair of challengers.
Councilman Dave Orvis held a thin lead over Strom Peterson, owner of The Resident Cheesemonger, in the race for Council Position 7. Stephen Bernheim, a lawyer, held a small lead over Councilman Richard Marin in the Council Position 6 race.
In the race for Council Position 5 — the seat currently held by Moore — business owner D.J. Wilson was leading Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, a state Department of Social and Health Services employee.
City Council President Peggy Pritchard Olson ran unopposed for re-election.
Reporter Scott Pesznecker: 425-339-3436 or spesznecker@heraldnet.com.
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