Issue statement from Lynnwood mayoral candidate Nicola Smith

LYNNWOOD — Nicola Smith is challenging incumbent Lynnwood Mayor Don Gough in the Nov. 5 general election.

Edmonds Community College administrator Smith led Gough in a four-candidate August primary, with 28 percent of the vote to 26 percent for Gough.

Both candidates were asked for their statements on campaign issues. Smith returned this one; Gough has not responded.

Nicola Smith

An award winning administrator for Edmonds Community College, I am an experienced public servant. Doorbelling and meeting citizens at my Civic Engagement tent has expanded my understanding of the issues facing the city.

Management: I want top talent to do the jobs we pay for and I will act as a catalyst for a renewed energy and culture of enthusiasm toward serving the citizens. I am an advocate of best practices with constant review.

Building Community: Where is the heart of Lynnwood? Why not parades and festivals; more spaces where people can congregate; celebrating our diversity? I applaud the efforts of the Parks Department to start a Farmer’s Market.

Lynnwood’s Place in Snohomish County: We need to get back to the table to strengthen our position within Snohomish County and its regional plans for growth and prosperity.

Economic Development: By honoring heritage, preserving good neighborhoods, and embracing efforts to develop projects such as the Lynnwood City Center, we will attract desirable new types of commerce to Lynnwood.

Growth: City development policies need to include affordable housing, functional public spaces, safe places for families, and stabilization of our city population.

Education: A strong community values and encourages education.

Evan Smith can be reached at schsmith@frontier.com.

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