Strom Peterson, an Edmonds business owner, has announced his intention to run for a council seat in the 2007 election.
Peterson, 38, said he has not yet decided for what position he will run. “We first want to get out the message of what we’re for, and don’t want to get bogged down with what we’re against.”
Incumbents Richard Marin and Dave Orvis already have announced their intentions to run for another term.
The owner of The Resident Cheesemonger said his decision to run for office is rooted in frustration with the City Council’s “micro-managing” of growth, as evidenced by its recent decision to deny developer Bob Gregg’s plan to refurbish the Old Milltown shopping center. Gregg has appealed the decision in Snohomish County Superior Court and filed a claim for damages against the city because of the decision.
“The City Council has a responsibility to protect the interests of the city and its citizens,” Peterson said. “Getting the city sued does not protect the city’s interests.
“Edmonds is the second-largest city in Snohomish County, but City Council actions have not reflected the needs and wants of a thriving, multi-faceted community,” said Peterson, who finished third in a three-way 2005 Council race that returned incumbent Michael Plunkett to office. “This election is not about building heights,” he emphasized, adding that the Council already has decided upon height limits downtown. “The city needs leadership with a broader vision for all of Edmonds.”
Regional transportation issues and making Edmonds a leader in energy-conservation measures, he said, will be among his priorities as a councilman.
Peterson and his wife, Maria, have lived in Edmonds for six years. He has served as president of the Downtown Edmonds Merchants Association and is a board member of the Greater Edmonds Chamber of Commerce.
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