The End Of The Trail

Like you, I have received my ballot for the November 5 General Election.  I hope you take the time to exercise your right to vote.

As readers of this blog know, I am a candidate for Position 5, Lakewood City Council.  Over the past 5 plus months, I have had the opportunity to meet with, talk to and learn from many of you as I have sought to win your support.

I have earned the endorsements of The News Tribune, Lakewood City Council member Helen McGovern-Pilant, the Master Builders Association of Pierce County, the Tacoma Pierce County Association of Realtors and the International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 1488.

But most important, I have sought to earn your support.

My messaging has been clear and consistent and a recap follows:

I want to see and will work for an economically viable Lakewood.  This means that the city manager and the city council will work to maintain a welcoming business climate. It also means that city officials and council members are accountable for expenditures. Your tax dollars must be used wisely, and I pledge to do that.

Strong relations with Joint Base Lewis-McChord are vital to the city’s continued growth. I will work with fellow council members to maintain and further this bond.

I believe there is a moral obligation to help the less fortunate.  My thoughts as your city council member will reflect this as we address economically driven issues.

Public safety, parks and recreation and educational opportunities will be maintained in a sensible and fiscally responsible manner.

And last, I will listen to you.  Your thoughts matter; I will listen and learn. 

Lakewood faces a number of challenges as we move forward toward 2014.  I will work in a collaborative and open manner with fellow council members in addressing these concerns.  I will ask questions; I will not settle for conformity; I will represent you and your interests.

I ask for your support and vote.

Thank you.