Statements from Lynnwood mayoral candidates
Published 11:05 pm Tuesday, October 13, 2009
I’ve asked the two candidates for Lynnwood mayor to state their cases to voters.
Both incumbent Mayor Don Gough and his general election challenger, City Councilman Jim Smith, wrote statements about why voters should choose them.
Gough and Smith qualified for the November ballot by finishing 1-2 in the August primary, ahead of Councilwoman Lisa Utter and Councilman Loren Simmonds.
Here is Gough’s statement:
“Being your mayor and #1 primary winner is an honor. My first responsibility is Lynnwood’s financial stability using tough financial and budget policies, and living within our means.
“Positive Changes for Lynnwood: Our Community Investment Plan includes: Senior Center expansion; new traffic management center; Olympic View Drive improvements; neighborhood traffic calming projects; multiple park improvements including renovation of our 32-year-old Recreation Center. We’re planning necessary fire, police and other public safety facilities.
“We mobilized over 500 citizens developing our adopted future city vision. Freedom, opportunity and security are values I’m committed to use in leading and governing our city.
“The next necessary step is building business plans for each department which combine vision, goals and a real long-term six-year budget.
“I was elected in 2005 to get things done through practical solutions guided by principles and common sense. Thank you for your continued support and vote.”
Here is Smith’s statement:
“This is no time to be wasting $80,000 on an ‘image ‘makeover’ for the city of Lynnwood, especially when public safety is being cut, and Lynnwood taxes are going up. I promise to stop the out-of-control spending, which has added to your tax bill.
“This campaign will highlight three emergent needs:
Ÿ fiscal responsibility using the priorities of government;
Ÿ treating our employees with respect;
Ÿ working cooperatively with other jurisdictions.
“I’ve been endorsed by nearly all city mayors in South County, as well as Tina Robert-Martinez, former Lynnwood mayor. They know the value of working together. We must build relationships, not strain them, if we are going to successfully work through these tough times.
“Our families have to live within their means; so should our city. We need to bring back common-sense government to City Hall. I promise to do that!
“I would appreciate your vote.”
Zambrano-Smith contest
If Mountlake Terrace Councilman John Zambrano’s beats fellow Councilman Jerry Smith in November, Zambrano’s current seat would be vacant.
One observer told me recently that he expects Zambrano to nominate Smith to fill the vacancy should Zambrano beat Smith.
Evan Smith can be reached at schsmith@verizon.net.
