By Kate Reardon
Herald writer
LAKE STEVENS — Sidewalks, downtown revitalization and making City Hall more accessible are on the minds of city council candidates in three contested races here facing off in the Nov. 6 general election.
Julie Estep is facing incumbent Jack Blackwell for Position 1.
Estep, 38, said she would work for a more accountable government. She said her issues include sidewalks, safety and city finances. Estep’s husband is council member Rich Estep, who is not up for re-election.
Blackwell, 70, is running for a third term. He said if re-elected he will focus on parks, transportation and fiscal responsibility.
For Position 2, Richard Maddalena is trying to unseat incumbent Neal Dooley.
Maddalena, a 51-year-old retired mechanical contractor, said additional sidewalks are needed in parks, and the city should focus on revitalization efforts downtown.
"I’ll demand City Hall make city business accessible to citizens," he said. "I’ll encourage public participation, while stressing our city council appreciate people’s views."
Dooley, 52, said he would concentrate on economic development. As revenue from the state decreases, the city needs to look at other sources such as grants and economic development to continue current levels of service.
"Times are getting tight for everybody," he said, adding that he would welcome the addition of some light industry, such as a software company, locating in the area.
For Position 7, Carlene Wagner is running against incumbent Glenn McLoughlin.
Wagner, 49, said she’s running because it’s time for new blood on the council.
"I think it’s nice to have a rotation," she said.
She also supports the idea of more sidewalks and believes the city needs to be more accountable to citizens and their tax dollars.
McLoughlin, 35, said he is running for re-election so he can continue work to improve public safety and making the city more attractive for residents.
"We need to continue to make sure the downtown core is not neglected," McLoughlin said.
He said he likes the idea of more sidewalks, but questions how the city would pay for them.
"I would have sidewalks up and down every road," he said. "Unfortunately, it costs money."
Candidates agreed any future annexations should be citizen-driven and supported.
Wagner’s husband, Larry, is running unopposed for Position 6. Larry Wagner, 46, said the city needs to be more responsible with taxpayer money.
"I watched about $78,000 go into studies that never went anywhere," he said.
Beginning in January, newly elected council members will earn $300 a month, as well as up to $200 more per month for extra meetings. Terms are for four years. The city’s population is more than 6,000 people.
You can call Herald Writer Kate Reardon at 425-339-3455
or send e-mail to reardon@heraldnet.com.
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