by Ralph Nichols

Des Moines councilman Bob Sheckler was elected to a fourth consecutive term as mayor at the city council’s first meeting of the new year on Thursday, Jan. 7.

Councilman Dave Kaplan, who was re-elected to the council in the November election, was chosen as the city’s mayor pro tem.

Sheckler, who was elected on a 5-2 vote of council members, was nominated by Kaplan.

Scott Thomasson then nominated Matt Pina, who declined to be considered “for a variety of reasons.”

Newcomers Pina and Melissa Musser were sworn in and seated on the council at the start of the meeting.

After Pina stepped aside, Councilman Dan Sherman nominated Thomasson.

Voting for Sheckler were Kaplan, Musser and Pina, along with Councilwoman Carmen Scott and Sheckler. Sherman and Thomasson voted for Thomasson.

Kaplan was nominated by Scott, and Thomasson then nominated Musser. Sheckler, Kaplan, Pina and Scott voted for Kaplan, while voting for Musser were Sherman, Thomasson and Musser.

In recent years, Sheckler and Kaplan frequently have been on one side of a number of contentious issues, with Sherman and Thomasson on the other.

Assistant City Manager Lorri Ericson introduced Marion Yoshino, the city’s new economic development manager, to the council.

Yoshino, a Normandy Park City Council member, small business owner and 14-year resident in the area, will serve in this capacity on a pro bono basis.

“We have all witnessed the unfortunate recent closures of many of our small businesses,” Yoshino said. “It’s hard to see what’s going on around us.”

But, she continued, Des Moines has “the most spectacular beauty,” and noted the similarity here with waterfront settings in Bellingham and Kirkland where local businesses are doing relatively well even in the down economy.

“Our small businesses deserve this now,” Yoshino said. “If we all pull together we’re going to have a fantastic place.”

As if setting a new tone at the beginning of a new year, community activist and volunteer Brenda Anders, in the only comment from the public at the meeting, expressed support for the new council in its work ahead and declared, “I love Des Moines, Washington. This is a great place to work, a great place to live, a great place to play.”

Monday afternoon (Jan. 4th), the King County Council appointed former Seattle City Council President Jan Drago to fill the District 8 seat, taking over from when Dow Constantine became Executive.

Drago won by a unanimous vote after Rep. Joe McDermott’s election stalemated in a 4-4 tie and Councilman Larry Phillips suggested a vote for her.

There were four finalists for the position: McDermott; state Rep. Zack Hudgins, D-Tukwila; Drago; and Rep. Sharon Nelson, D-Maury Island.

Drago, who failed to make the general election for Seattle Mayor, claims that she will not run for re-election in November 2010.

At one time, four of the 11 original candidates for this vacancy were from this (Dr. Arun Jhaveri, Lucy Krakowiak; Kathleen Quong-Vermeire, and Shawn McEvoy), as well as two members of the original selection committee (Joan McGilton and Doug Osterman), but in the end none of our peeps got very far.

According to Drago’s Seattle City Council website bio:

Jan Drago has been a member of the Seattle City Council since January 1994, following her election in November 1993.

Prior to her election, she had been a small business owner (Haagen Dazs Ice Cream Shoppes franchise owner, (1980-1991) and a school teacher (1973-1978).

She is a graduate of Douglass College, Rutgers University (B.A., Psychology).

She and her husband Noel are the parents of four sons and two grandsons.

Here’s the council’s official press release:

The Metropolitan King County Council today gave its unanimous approval to the appointment of former Seattle City Council President Jan Drago to fill the vacancy created in County Council District 8 when Dow Constantine was sworn in as County Executive.

“I am honored to be selected to serve the people of District 8,” said Drago shortly after her swearing-in by Superior Court Presiding Judge Bruce Hilyer. “I look forward to working with the Council and the communities and neighborhoods that make up the district on the challenges that we face this year.”

Drago will act as a caretaker in District 8, serving until the certification of the Nov 2010 general election when the new Councilmember for the district will be sworn in.

“Jan Drago is an experienced public official and policy-maker, and I look forward to working with her,” said Council Chair Bob Ferguson.

“Jan will make a wonderful addition to the King County Council,” said council Vice Chair Jane Hague. “She knows the issues facing District 8 and will hit the ground running to serve her constituents well.”

“Jan Drago has a distinguished career serving our community, having been elected to serve Seattle residents four times,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips. “I am confident she will represent the citizens of District 8 well until they have the chance to elect their permanent representative this fall.”

“The residents of King County will benefit from Jan’s experience, especially when it comes to addressing the 2010 budget,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer.

Drago served on the Seattle City Council from 1994 through 2009, having served as Council President for four years and as Chair of the Council’s Budget Committee from 1999-2003. Drago, a graduate of Rutgers University, was a small business owner and school teacher prior to joining the Seattle City Council.

“I was looking for an independent minded person who could work with all of my colleagues,” said Councilmember Reagan Dunn. “With Jan Drago we get that and a wealth of local government experience as well. I’m pleased to welcome her and look forward to working with her between now and November.”

“Jan Drago is an experienced local leader and I look forward to welcoming her as a colleague on the King County Council,” said Councilmember Julia Patterson.

“I look forward to working with Jan Drago on the many complex issues facing King County, “ said Councilmember Larry Gossett.  “I am sure that Jan will serve her constituents well over the next 11 months.”

“All the candidates we considered were very qualified,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert. “We are fortunate to have such talented, informed leaders to choose from. After working with Councilmember Drago at the City of Seattle, I am confident that she can hit the ground running and offer her considerable government and business experience to the County. We appreciate her budget expertise and familiarity with the issues facing King County.”

Drago was selected out of the 11 applicants who applied to replace Constantine. All of the applicants were interviewed by a 12-member advisory committee of community leaders and elected officials who live or work in Council District 8. The advisory committee sent the Council Drago as well as the names of three other candidates:

·       Rep. Zack Hudgins—State Representative from the 11th District
·       Sen. Joe McDermott—State Senator from the 34th District
·       Rep. Sharon Nelson—State Representative from the 34th District

The committee stressed Drago’s proven ability in budget, transportation and labor matters, her strong regional relationships and the potential to strengthen partnerships with the city of Seattle because of her time on the city Council.

UPDATE 5:45pm 1/4/10: Late this afternoon, Councilmember Larry Phillips released this statement, chock full of political irony:

“I made it clear on December 14th with my vote for Senator Joe McDermott that I strongly support him as the best representative to fill the District 8 vacancy. He has an impressive show of support from the people of District 8, has demonstrated leadership as a state senator tackling many of the most pressing issues for our community, and is a historic choice as the first openly gay person to serve of the County Council. I hope to have the opportunity to serve alongside Senator McDermott this fall.

“The council deliberated for many hours over Senator McDermott’s appointment, but—despite having my vote and the vote of three of my colleagues—Senator McDermott was unable to garner the five votes on the Council needed to secure the appointment. Councilmember Jan Drago, who along with Senator McDermott was endorsed by a group of District 8 citizens who vetted the potential candidates, was supported by four other Councilmembers on December 14th while I remained loyal in my support of Senator McDermott.

“The Council has remained at an impasse for the three weeks that followed, with no end in sight. The bottom line is that four votes plus four votes equals zero representation for District 8, and that is unacceptable. It’s is time to end the impasse and end the disenfranchisement of District 8 citizens. They deserve representation as the Council begins taking up business in 2010.

“Councilmember Drago has been elected by the citizens of this community four times, has strong Democratic credentials, and is willing to represent District 8 as a caretaker until the November election. So although Senator McDermott remains my first choice to represent District 8, today I joined my colleagues in supporting Jan Drago for the District 8 appointment.”

Dear Blog Editor,

I would like to thank the voters of Des Moines for granting me another four years to represent our great city.

While Des Moines has struggled to overcome a number of adversities over the years, we are poised to build a bright future for all of our residents … one that reflects the values of our community, takes advantage of our ties to Puget Sound and our proximity to regional transportation facilities, and one that ensures a rational, sustainable level of city services for our residents.

I’ve been proud to serve as your City Councilmember for the past four years, and I’m looking forward with enthusiasm and energy to the next four years.

Thank you again!

Cordially,
Dave Kaplan
Des Moines City Councilmember

It was the battle of the incumbents in Des Moines with Councilman Dave Kaplan defeating Councilwoman Susan White in a landslide for City Council Position 7.

As of Thursday (Nov. 5th) afternoon’s release of the latest vote totals by King County Elections, Kaplan held a +19-point lead, with 59.42 percent (2,641 votes) to 40.02 percent (1,779 votes) over White.

“I’m proud and honored to have been granted another term to serve as your City Councilmember on the Des Moines City Council,” Kaplan told The Waterland Blog.

White was attending a conference out of town and could not be reached for comment.

In 2001, Kaplan was defeated after serving one term on the council – the same year that White was elected to the first of her two terms as councilwoman. Kaplan was elected again in 2005, but instead of seeking re-election to his Position 5 seat this year he opted to oppose White.

Matt Pina, with a current lead of 55.21 percent (2,448 votes) to 44.54 percent (1,975 votes) lead over political newcomer Anne Farmer, will succeed his father, Ed Pina, in City Council Position 1.

The senior Pina is retiring from the council. Earlier, Matt Pina also followed his father as a Highline School Board member.

“I’m happy where (the vote) is right now,” Pina said before Thursday’s vote total update. “It’s a good spot to be in.”

In the closest race this year, incumbent Councilwoman Carmen Scott held a 52.30 percent (2,270 votes) to 47.35 percent (2,055 votes) lead over Melissa Musser, another newcomer to Des Moines politics, for Position 5.

“Obviously, the votes are not all in yet, but I am already feeling very confident about the energy and commitment of our new council members and look forward to our developing a unified plan of cohesive solutions to downtown growth and vigor,” Scott said.

“Beyond that, I know we will all be focused on maintaining parks and recreation programs, finding new sources of revenue, containing expenses, encouraging development of the Port business park land, and redevelopment within Pacific Ridge,” she added.

“Thank you for your vote. I will serve you well.”

The third political newcomer this year, Melissa Musser, was unopposed in her bid for Council Position 5, which previously was held by Kaplan.

Mayor Bob Sheckler said of the election outcome, “I couldn’t be more pleased. When this economy turns around, Des Moines will be in a position to act quickly to further economic development. This is the council that will get us there.”

But the biggest news for many residents was not the results of City Council races but the outcome of Proposition 1, which will establish the Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District that will keep the Mt. Rainier Pool open for public use.

Proposition 1 was sweeping to victory by a 62.86 percent to 37.14 percent margin. Had it not been approved, it is likely that the popular community swimming pool – used by beginning swimmers, swim teams and seniors – would have been closed due to lack of funding.

Elected as pool district commissioners were Gene Achziger, Eric Kasnick, Bernadette Barrett, Marty Martinson and Nancy Kuehnoel. All ran unopposed.

THANK YOU, DES MOINES!

One is not supposed to write with solid capital letters on the Internet because it is equated with shouting. But I am SHOUTING.

THANK YOU, DES MOINES, for recognizing that we need to stop legislating for our grandparents and start legislating for our grandchildren. By that I mean we need to stay focused on investing in the future, not obsessing with today.

On Tuesday, even in our down economy, the good people of Des Moines set aside haggling over taxes to pass Proposition 1. You created Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District to keep Mount Rainier Pool operating for generations to come. You responded to the message that we do some things right here in the “Waterland City.” And one of the best is our swim program, which, in addition to teaching tens of thousands of kids over the years to swim and be safe around water, gives those kids an opportunity to better themselves and better our community.

As one of your new pool commissioners, I’m fully aware of the need to pinch pennies and stretch dollars… and not just in these lean times. Continuing to do so will be necessary if we are to achieve my goal of seeing to it that every child in this community who wants to learn to swim will have an opportunity to do so.

I look with admiration at Pacific Middle School teacher Schell Ross who can pack Mount Rainier Pool on a Friday night with sixth, seventh and eighth graders who enjoy safe, supervised exercise rather than wandering the streets.

And who can not be inspired by 105-year-old Faith Callahan whose three-days-a-week regimen of low-impact water aerobics keeps her sprightly?

I was particularly struck during our campaign kick-off when Chris Burrage, just hours out of United States Marine Corps boot camp training, showed up, unannounced and in full-dress uniform. He wasn’t on the agenda and initially declined an invitation to speak. But he was moved by his remembrances of the role swimming at Mount Rainier Pool has played in his life. He spoke wistfully of those memories and what it meant to be a teenager growing up in Des Moines. He then exhorted the crowd to “fight to keep Mount Rainier Pool.”

And there was Ariana Kukors, who began swimming at Mount Rainier Pool as a 5-year-old and would go on this last summer to be crowned the fastest woman in the world in the 200m IM. She didn’t flinch a minute to break off from her training in Southern California for the US Olympics team to return home to urge voters to keep the pool open.

And you did.

So I, once again, just wanna shout: THANK YOU, DES MOINES!

Gene Achziger for
Save Our Swimming

UPDATE WED. 11/4/ 5pm: The second round of ballot returns has been released by King County Elections, and with between 28-30% of the votes counted, Dow Constantine still leads with 58%, Matt Pina with 55%, Carmen Scott with 53%, Dave Kaplan at 59% and 62% voting “Yes” on Proposition #1 (to save Mt. Rainier Pool).

Also, Initiative 1033 is still failing with 67% voting “No,” and R-71 is still passing with 67% “Yes.”

Here are the updated results culled from the King County Elections website as of 4:19pm Wed., 11/4/09:

KING COUNTY EXECUTIVE:

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters: 308,650 / 1,079,842 • 28.58%

• Susan Hutchison: 125,607 • 42.26%
• Dow Constantine: 171,006 • 57.53%
• Write-in: 621 • 0.21%

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters: 308,650 / 1079842 • 28.58%

Initiative Measure No. 1033:

• YES: 92,654 • 33.28%
• NO: 185,721 • 66.72%

Referendum Measure No. 71:

• APPROVED: 202,125 • 66.59%
• REJECTED: 101,403 • 33.41%

CITY OF DES MOINES:

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters: 4,021 / 15,291 • 26.30%

Council Position No. 1:

• Anne Farmer: 1,588 • 44.43%
• Matt Pina: 1,975 • 55.26%
• Write-in: 11 • 0.31%

Council Position No. 3:

• Melissa Ponder: 1,643 • 46.96%
• Carmen L. Scott: 1,841 • 52.62%
• Write-in: 15 • 0.43%

Council Position No. 5:

• Melissa Musser: 2,848 • 98.48%
• Write-in: 44 • 1.52%

Council Position No. 7:

• Dave Kaplan: 2,133 • 59.46%
• Susan White: 1,430 • 39.87%
• Write-in: 24 • 0.67%

Proposition No. 1:

• YES: 2,309 • 62.30%
• NO: 1,397 • 37.70%

Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District Commissioner Position No. 1 Interim term

• Gene Achziger: 2,603 • 98.30%
• Write-in: 45 • 1.70%

Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District Commissioner Position No. 2 Interim term

• Eric Kasnick: 2,549 • 98.49%
• Write-in: 39 • 1.51%

Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District Commissioner Position No. 3 Interim term

• Bernadette Barrett: 2,552 • 98.46%
• Write-in: 40 • 1.54%

Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District Commissioner Position No. 4 Interim term

• Marty Martinson: 2,543 • 98.53%
• Write-in: 38 • 1.47%

Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District Commissioner Position No. 5 Interim term

• Nancy N. Kuehnoel: 2,298 • 98.33%
• Write-in: 39 • 1.67%

SOUTH KING FIRE AND RESCUE:

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters: 14,732 / 69,240 •21.28%

Commissioner Position No. 2:

• Mark Freitas: 10,484 • 99.39%
• Write-in:  64 • 0.61%

Commissioner Position No. 3

• John Rickert: 7,521 • 63.98%
• J. Roger Hershey:  4,216  •  35.86%
• Write-in:   19 • 0.16%

KING COUNTY WATER DISTRICT NO. 54:

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters:     634     /     2128     29.79%

Commissioner Position No. 3

• Alli Larkin: 431 • 98.85%
• Write-in:  5 • 1.15%

CITY OF BURIEN:

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters: 5, 006 / 16,617 • 30.13%

Council Position No. 1:

• Sue Blazak: 1,981 • 44.83%
• Jack Block, Jr.: 2,413 • 54.61%
• Write-in: 25 • 0.57%

Council Position No. 3:

• Joan McGilton: 3,214 • 97.01%
• Write-in: 99 • 2.99%

Council Position No. 5:

• Rose Clark: 3,212 • 96.69%
• Write-in: 110 • 3.31%

Council Position No. 7:

• Brian Bennett: 3,363 • 98.22%
• Write-in: 61 • 1.78%

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters: 5,006 / 16,617 • 30.13%

Transportation Benefit District No. 1 Proposition No. 1:

• YES: 958 • 23.50%
• NO: 3,118 • 76.50%

CITY OF NORMANDY PARK:

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters: 1,553 / 4,676 • 33.21%

Council Position No. 2:

• Clarke Brant: 1,025 • 97.99%
• Write-in: 21 • 2.01%

Council Position No. 4:

• John L. Rankin: 972 • 96.05%
• Write-in: 40 • 3.95%

Council Position No. 6 short and full term:

• Marion Yoshino: 995 • 98.03%
• Write-in: 20 • 1.97%

Proposition No. 1:

• YES: 680 • 47.16%
• NO: 762 • 52.84%

HIGHLINE SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 401:

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters: 13,664 / 57,961 • 23.57%

Director District No. 2:

• Angelica M. Alvarez: 10,372 • 98.47%
• Write-in: 161 • 1.53%

Director District No. 3:

• Susan Goding: 10319 • 98.53%
• Write-in: 154 • 1.47%

KING COUNTY:

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters: 254,261 / 1,079,842 • 23.55%

Sheriff:

• Sue Rahr: 220,802 • 97.96%
• Write-in: 4,597 • 2.04%

Assessor unexpired 2-year term

• Graham Albertini: 52,192 • 20.91%
• Gene Lux: 12,175 • 4.88%
• Lloyd Hara: 82,864 • 33.20%
• Bob Rosenberger: 72,525 • 29.06%
• Bob Blanchard: 29,041 • 11.63%
• Write-in: 806 • 0.32%

Dear Editor –

It is election time again and there is confusion in the craft. So many good people, all wanting to serve the community and in as many different ways, have stood up to the scrutiny of voters. From each candidate comes a word or two that they know voters really want to hear or read about. The voter’s pamphlet lays open on our table and it is eagerly analyzed but rarely fully understood. So when you evaluate each individual and come up empty or undecided, it is time to look at all of the issues confronting us today, this year, and onwards.

A few very important items glare up as you read, line by line, all of the propositions and positions taken by the candidates. It becomes a choice, not so much of which person to vote for, but what they stand for. Proceeding down the list of issues, we are made, painfully aware, that our little city of Des Moines is running on empty when it comes to finances and action must be forthcoming to bail us out. This immediately begs the question:

“How long did it take us to get to such a sad, sorry state, and how much is the recession actually responsible for this?”

Instead of looking backward to find causes and assign blame, we need to decide how to get back on our feet and return to the proud existence that was once enjoyed by our fellow citizens. We find that two major items before us are; the need to maintain a suitable police presence and preserving parks and recreation facilities, both nearly on equal footing. Now, realistically, you can deny the good judgment of our chief of police Roger Baker and start carrying a sidearm while looking over your shoulder or you can argue strongly for holding onto what we have. The first priority that a city has toward its citizens is a comprehensive blanket of security. All else becomes secondary, especially when you see graffiti on walls and fences declaring “territorial rights”.

I would like to share my thoughts about what I think would make Des Moines a better more attractive destination and tourist Mecca:

• At the first opportunity there would be a closure of Marine View Drive one or two weekends a year for street vendors, rerouting traffic through 7th Avenue but only during the events.
• A small seafood shop like Ivar’s would be encouraged to set up down on the northern end of the marina.
• There would be a large gazebo erected where the “Big Catch” plaza is now for occasional entertainers and kid things.
• Our city leaders would begin selling the sizzle of Des Moines instead of the steak. Why not partner with a little east coast village as a “sister city” such as Nantucket or Provincetown?
• In the process we could also encourage a casino to open nearer to the marina and add to our revenue base.
• In the summer it seems that a water taxi visiting and bringing tourists is an ideal goal.

Many of these things depend on a little more leeway on the part of our permit and building staff and the ability of the new council to present a much more friendly face to prospective residents and businesses. Oh and why not lease the Des Moines Cinema to the parks and recreation department such as the one in Auburn?

Our city of Des Moines has promise; you candidates and incumbents need to make some promises that you can keep.

- Pat Nardo

[EDITOR'S NOTE: Have something you'd like to say? Then email us a Letter to the Editor by clicking here, and pending our review, we'll most likely post it. You can also leave a Comment below...]

The citizens of Des Moines have an opportunity this election to stand with tradition and stand with their children, seniors and community.

It was 41 years ago that the people of King County approved the Forward Thrust measure to build 16 pools across the county so that our children could be taught to swim and combat the grim statistics which, even today, record that nine Americans drown every day – three of them children. Today, many of those pools have closed, victims of communities that just don’t care enough.

Over the last two months of campaigning, I’ve heard time and again from the city council candidates about how bad things are here in Des Moines. But I’m here to report about something that’s right with our community: the job that’s being done at Mount Rainier Pool.

Since Mount Rainier Pool finally opened its doors in 1975, tens of thousands of kids have learned to swim, to perform CPR and learned lifesaving skills that keep them, and all of us safer here in the “Waterland City.”

Teaching kids to swim is the No. 1 priority, but there’s so much more. Seniors and the infirm are maintaining their mobility and lengthening their lives through low-impact water aerobics programs. Faith Callahan last week celebrated her 105th birthday and attributes her continued good health to her three-days-a-week regimen at the pool.

Our high school and swim clubs are producing some of the best swimmers in the state – young athletes who go on to represent us at the collegiate, national and international levels. Remember that the fastest woman in the world in the 200m IM, Ariana Kukors, practices at Mount Rainier Pool. The best men’s 200 fly swimmer in the Big Ten, Scott Rice of the University of Wisconsin, only a few years ago led the Mount Rainier Rams to three consecutive 3A state championships.

We have numerous young servicemen and women who credit their physical fitness and leadership skills to time spent at Mount Rainier Pool. US Marines Christopher Sharpe and Christopher Burrage both sing high praise for their association with youth programs at the pool.

And how remarkable is it that once a month Pacific Middle School kids fill the pool for safe, supervised water activities on Friday nights?

This hasn’t happened by accident. It’s happened because this community cares about its young people. It cares about its seniors. And even now, during the current hard economic times, this community understands that preserving these opportunities is well worth the approximately $1 per week, per household, it will take to keep Mount Rainier Pool open for this and future generations. That’s it, for the average homeowner, a buck a week.

You’ve done good Des Moines. Let’s keep up the tradition! Vote YES! on Prop. 1.

Gene Achziger, for
Save Our Swimming

[EDITOR'S NOTE: Have something you'd like to say? Then email us a Letter to the Editor by clicking here, and pending our review, we'll most likely post it.]

This is the final installment in our online Des Moines City Council Candidates Forum series, today featuring the two only candidate vying for Position #5: Melissa Musser.

As before, we have made no alterations to her text, so the words used are purely hers, including any typos or other errors.

1. What is the primary objective you hope to accomplish for Des Moines if you are elected to the council? What qualifies you to lead this effort?

MELISSA MUSSER: My primary objective as a new City Council person for the City of Des Moines is to improve the stymied growth of our community that has occurred during the past few years. By that I mean, it’s the same “stuff”… different day. The lack of effective communication and meaningful partnerships between the City and her neighbors, Des Moines and the Port and between the council members themselves prevents any positive change from happening in Des Moines. By reading the Waterland Blog during the last two weeks alone, it has become abundantly clear the residents are asking, “What has the council actually accomplished?” Before the council can revise zoning and permitting parameters to encourage residential and commercial growth, before downtown can be revitalized or budget woes be solved, the council members have to put aside their own personal agendas and do what is best for this city.

My qualifications include years spent as a trainer both in my professional career and then as a Service Specialist with Washington State PTA. My current career as a manager of Community Associations and my common sense approach to problem solving provide me with the skill set needed to come to the table, listen with an open mind and weigh the pros and cons of an issue. I decided to run for city council because I wanted to represent the working families with kids. I bring a viewpoint to the council that it has been lacking for some time.

2. Des Moines tax revenue is down sharply, as reflected in the budget-cutting process for 2010. What will you do to increase revenue for the city without negatively impacting city residents and businesses?

MM: When you look up Des Moines on Wikipedia, it states, “The city has been the subject to land buyouts because of noise from aircraft landing or taking off from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport three kilometers to the north of Des Moines.”

With the stigma of land buy-outs and aircraft noise the Council has an even bigger challenge of attracting new business to our city while lifting up the businesses that are still toughing it out. Don’t make it so hard for those developers who want to improve our city and actually have the money to do so. The Waterland Blog ran a story clear back in June about the All Star Sports Bar in the building previously occupied by the Chinese restaurant. It was their goal to have their doors open in time for football. It’s nearly November- and they have yet to serve a single customer. It is revenue lost to not only the business owners but the city.

The time for finger pointing and excuses is over. Let’s recognize and support the business owners who are elevating our city, and hold those who don’t accountable. The council needs to decide what its vision for this city is once and for all, support and listen to our Planning Commission volunteers, give the Planning, Building, and Public Works department clear and concise direction and build a revenue base for this community that is built on new business, growth and retail sales.

3. Business activity downtown remains sluggish. What will you do to position the city to encourage increased business activity and development downtown?

MM: Development Downtown… that’s the hot topic of the campaign isn’t it? The problem with the current Council and Downtown development is that the Council hasn’t even decided how to define Downtown. I recently attended a Saturday study session that the community was invited to attend and give comment. Attendance at this meeting was low, besides me, others present consisted of Matt Pina, Mel Ponder, and two business owners. At this meeting it was said, “We have seven council people and seven different visions of downtown.” It hadn’t even been decided WHERE downtown was.  Midrise, residential, open spaces, Burien Town Square, Kent Station, no change, big change, sleepy bedroom town, waterfront oasis; these are all “visions” that have been shared with me during this campaign. One reason why new business doesn’t want to come to Des Moines is the fact that the city can’t decide what the future looks like.

What I will do to position the City towards positive growth is to push the 2010 council to come to consensus on downtown development. Money has been spent, time has been wasted; it’s time for the city to make a cohesive plan for the next, five, ten, twenty years then put in place the infrastructure needed to make its vision a reality. Will it be easy?  No. But meaningful growth cannot take place in this city until the decision makers can agree. Hold the current businesses accountable and make it easier to maintain appealing, safe and inviting properties. What new business wants to move in next to a dilapidated property?

The FAA and the Port grant money to Highline Public Schools projects that require sound mitigation. What type of support can we push for from the Port to encourage growth from developers and business owners? Again, I’m stuck on that Wikipedia blurb.

4. Should Des Moines promote itself as a tourist destination? If yes, what should the city do (e.g., encourage development of bed-and-breakfasts, Puget Sound tour boat cruises from the Marina, summer salmon bakes)? If no, why not?

MM: This self-styled “quaint Maritime Village” is a favorite destination for people all over the world. This is a city that has preserved its history but also has many events that make this a vibrant community with incredible scenery, galleries, upscale shops, restaurants, beautiful gardens and many recreational activities.”  Ah… if only this description was for Des Moines. Sadly, it’s for Gig Harbor. I was struck by Gig Harbor because on bright sunny days, my husband and his friends get in a boat in Des Moines and leave to go to Gig Harbor where they can pull up to a dock, enjoy lunch at the Tides Tavern, sit and visit with friends and plan their next trip to Gig Harbor. Winthrop has their Western theme.  Leavenworth is a Bavarian Village whose Oktoberfest and Christmas tree lighting infuse the community with tourist dollars each year. The Yakima Valley embraced its agriculture and topography and has encouraged a thriving wine business and tourist industry.

Yes, in my opinion Des Moines should promote itself as a tourist destination. With its parks, history, proximity to the waterfront and beautiful views, we are a tourist destination suffering from the same blight as our business plan- we don’t have one.  Once again, our city suffers from a lack of a common vision. The council needs to empower a community-based committee of volunteers to develop a tourism based business plan and not spend thousands of dollars on a “think-tank” like other municipalities have done. One time “events” like Waterland are wonderfully well received, but they barely break even. We need these types of events to draw people into a thriving, attractive, clean and safe waterfront town, then keep them coming back because we offer something more. We’re missing our something more.

5. Do you support development of Waterview Crossing and Des Moines Creek Business Park? If yes, what will you do to position the city to help these projects move forward? If no, why not?

MM: I support the development of the Pacific Ridge and the “buy-out” area of Des Moines. The Waterview Crossing development looks good on paper. Beautiful marketing material can be found at the developer’s web site; 1600 residential units, live/work space, office space and an aesthetically appealing plan. Again, on paper- it should all work. Close to the airport, easy freeway access and conveniently located near Highline Community College and transit. But it doesn’t work, in my opinion. Apartments designed with the goal of one day turning them into condominiums, minimal parking, hotel space mixed with senior housing and over 300 one bedroom or smaller live spaces planned (ear marked as “short term rentals”) has this professional multi-family community manager questioning if the developer really “gets” Des Moines. From what I have gleaned, the city really wants this project to work. They want it to revitalize the area and clean up crime. Some current council members have made questionable decisions, held closed door meetings and may have had their judgment clouded in an effort to have a shiny new “Library, Social Space and Business Center”. I support Multi-Family Tax incentives if they are given to builders who are committed to the city; not developers with projects that will end up sitting empty. We have enough apartments in Des Moines, especially “short term rentals”. It’s a topic I’m passionate about and not one I can sum up in the 300 words or less I’m given for each question.

The Des Moines Creek Business Park area needs development. It’s empty space that invites crime and devalues the area. It comes back to finding a way to work productively with the Port. They own the land, we own the roads. I support retail “big box” stores, but I would not support a Wal-Mart.

Remember, the deadline to mail your ballots in is Tuesday, Nov. 3rd.

If you’d like to review all our Online Candidate Forums, here are the links:

• Position #7: Dave Kaplan vs Susan White
• Position #3: Melissa Ponder vs Carmen Scott
• Position #1: Anne Farmer vs Matt Pina

This is the third in our online Des Moines City Council Candidates Forum series, today featuring the two candidates vying for Position #7: challenger incumbent (in Pos. #5) Dave Kaplan vs incumbent Susan White.

As before, we have made no alterations to their text, so the words used are purely theirs, including any typos or other errors.

Each candidate is identified by their names and headshots, then initials:

1. What is the primary objective you hope to accomplish for Des Moines if you are elected to the council? What qualifies you to lead this effort?

DAVE KAPLAN: The primary objective I hope to accomplish for Des Moines when I’m reelected is to continue the steps we’ve been taking to make our budgets sustainable into the future, to focus on bringing in new revenues to the city by expanding our business base through necessary revisions in our City Code and making infrastructure improvements, and for maintaining those services that make Des Moines a great place to live.

I’m qualified to lead this effort because I’ve already been helping to take the lead on these issues as an incumbent Des Moines City Councilmember.  We have made a lot of progress, and I don’t want to see that progress halted because of those who oppose change.

SUSAN WHITE: Positive economic development for downtown, finish the historical rehabilitation of our historical Beach Park District, continue to make Des Moines a business friendly environment to attract new business, jobs and affordable housing.

I have eight years of experience on the Des Moines City Council and have produced positive results for the city in spite of difficult economic times.  I brought $220,000 through my efforts in Washington DC with our representatives to commence our Historic District in Beach Park.  Then was able to raise $2M more as well.  The auditorium will be open next year.

2. Des Moines tax revenue is down sharply, as reflected in the budget-cutting process for 2010. What will you do to increase revenue for the city without negatively impacting city residents and businesses?

DK: My intent is to first prioritize how and where we spend on City services.  Rather than adjusting the same budget from year to year to year, we need to actually start from scratch, determine what is important, and then whether or not we have the revenues to provide all of the services we do (or if there are better ways to provide them).  Then and only then would I consider tax increases.  The cuts and revenue increases necessary to submit a balanced budget for 2010 will negatively impact city residents and businesses.  There is no way around it.  We must close a gap of $2 million between revenues and projected spending levels, out of an approximately $18 million budget.  That is the short term.  The long-term solution is to grow our business revenues by providing incentives for businesses to locate in Des Moines rather than elsewhere.  Only long-term solutions will fix our long-term problems, and our gap between on-going revenues and on-going expenses requires an on-going solution.

SW: Unfortunately (and Des Moines is not alone in this budget crisis) we have had to cut some positions, furlough days and ultimately I think we will be looking at combining services perhaps with other cities.

3. Business activity downtown remains sluggish. What will you do to position the city to encourage increased business activity and development downtown?

DK: To better position ourselves we need to do a number of things.  We need to ensure that the infrastructure is in place to support business and make it thrive — water, electricity, sidewalks, traffic flow, parking, and connectivity with the marina.  We need to streamline our permitting system by investing in the correct technologies that are user-friendly and self-driven.  We need to review our zoning code to determine whether small adjustments in signage, building heights, or other areas may make our downtown more attractive as a place to locate and invest.  And we must partner with other resources (Highline Community College, as an example) to help find ways to promote and support businesses that choose to locate in Des Moines.  Without a local chamber of commerce or effective advocate for our businesses, downtown will not succeed.

SW: I currently chair South King County Economic Development Initiative (SKCEDI) which is a partnership with our neighboring cities working on a Business Attraction Program and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC).  We must continue to position ourselves to encourage new business for downtown, Pacific Ridge and keep working on the Des Moines Creek Business Park.

4. Should Des Moines promote itself as a tourist destination? If yes, what should the city do (e.g., encourage development of bed-and-breakfasts, Puget Sound tour boat cruises from the Marina, summer salmon bakes)? If no, why not?

DK: Yes!  Des Moines has a beautiful public presence on Puget Sound.  Our marina, downtown and Des Moines Beach Park and perfectly located to bring people to town.  We should encourage development of small hotels and beds & breakfasts.  We should encourage restaurants, antique shops, bakeries, and artistic shops to locate here.  Summertime boat service from Seattle to Des Moines makes sense, but has to be thought out carefully (the passenger-only ferries were proposed to be used for commuters only and would not be used for tourism purposes — that is one of the reasons I opposed them).  If our residents won’t spend their money in Des Moines, we need to find a way to bring that revenue to Des Moines.  Tourism is one of those ways.

SW: Of course!  We have a Marina, roughly six miles of shoreline and a wonderful city.  I support Water Transportation, specifically passenger only ferries and certainly support the idea of a nice hotel downtown . . . more restaurants, more shops . . . Once the Beach Park is finished we will hopefully contract with a professional management company to bring people into Des Moines via water transportation.

5. Do you support development of Waterview Crossing and Des Moines Creek Business Park? If yes, what will you do to position the city to help these projects move forward? If no, why not?

DK: Yes, I’ve supported Waterview Crossing (I voted for the development agreement in November 2007), and I’m a strong supporter of the Des Moines Creek Business Park. I think we need to take advantage of what limited commercially zoned land we have in Des Moines (downtown, the business park, and Pacific Highway) and encourage businesses to invest in Des Moines.  I’ve supported a number of changes to make redevelopment of Pacific Ridge more likely, including adoption of a Multi-Family Tax Exemption, waiver of some traffic impact fees, and the underlying zoning which provides for taller buildings on a stretch of land badly in need of redevelopment.  The Des Moines Creek Business Park has a great deal of potential, as do some surrounding properties, and we need to make certain that impacts from that development is well-managed.  Part of that is continuing to make progress on our Gateway transportation project for S. 216th Street and 24th Avenue S.  As chair of the Public Safety & Transportation Committee, I’ve worked and will continue to work to keep the project moving forward.

SW: Yes, I support both.  The economy will need to move forward but I believe the City is well positioned now after all the work that has been done on these projects to move forward.

Coming up next, the candidate for Position #5: Melissa Musser.

This is the second in our online Des Moines City Council Candidates Forum series, today featuring the two candidates vying for Position #3: challenger Melissa Ponder vs incumbent Carmen Scott.

As before, we have made no alterations to their text, so the words used are purely theirs, including any typos or other errors.

Each candidate is identified by their names and headshots, then initials:

1. What is the primary objective you hope to accomplish for Des Moines if you are elected to the council? What qualifies you to lead this effort?

MELISSA PONDER: We need to improve our financial situation in order to be able to provide services citizens say they want.  In order to accomplish this, we need a council that will act more collaboratively.  Unanimous agreement is not always necessary, but a healthy goal oriented working environment is critical to serving the people of Des Moines. An example of my ability to listen, work collaboratively, and work towards solutions is demonstrated by the fact that I was nominated by and elected by fellow Commissioners on the King County Civil Rights Commission to serve as Chairperson for two terms.  These skills are going to be required in these tough economic times in order to find broadly supported solutions to the city’s problems.

As Program Coordinator of the REACH Diabetes Program at International Community Health Services, I was responsible for supervision of the $130,000 budget, as well as for the community based research data collection, evaluation, and reporting involved with the project.

I also have an understanding of the small business person as I have the benefit of running my own photography business which means I have to negotiate the landscape of taxes, licenses, etc. that all businesses must travel. I am a quick learner, hard worker, and strongly believe that community as a whole can make a great impact. I genuinely believe the City Council should be representative of and accountable to the people of Des Moines.

CARMEN SCOTT: My primary objective is to hasten our city’s recovery from this economic recession, and put us on a sound financial footing.  To identify and make use of the most accurate and effective methods of understanding and resolving each of our most urgent issues.  This means communication, cooperation, reaching out and listening, resolving differences, and working cohesively towards achievable goals.

I have been a very successful business woman for three decades, particularly skilled in analyzing property values, and understanding the factors that affect the desirability of homes, neighborhoods and communities. Starting in 1978, I served 10 years on the Des Moines Planning Commission. In 1988, My work was instrumental in securing a State Historical designation for Covenant Beach Historic District.  I am  a board member of the Des Moines Legacy Foundation, which raises funds to sustain critical programs and activities benefitting at-risk youth, family and seniors.  I am a city historian, and board member of the Des Moines Historical Society.  As an effective member of  the current Des Moines City Council, I have earned respect, and a reputation for doing my homework, and arriving at sound logical conclusions.  I am proud to be endorsed by those who have served beside me and know me well, including our current Mayor, two former Mayors, and the majority of our current council.

2. Des Moines tax revenue is down sharply, as reflected in the budget-cutting process for 2010. What will you do to increase revenue for the city without negatively impacting city residents and businesses?

MP: Des Moines tax revenue is down sharply, as reflected in the budget-cutting process for 2010. What will you do to increase revenue for the city without negatively impacting city residents and businesses?

One of the few things that all council members and candidates seem to agree upon is that the best opportunity for revenue is the Des Moines Creek Business Park area (which has already been zoned as such). We need to pursue possible state tax incentives that will not also require us to give up needed city tax revenues, in order to get developers and businesses back to the table.  We need to actively seek input from community members and our neighbor cities about what kinds of businesses they would like to attract (or avoid). While proceeding with that measure, the council may need to have a retreat or two early in 2010 specifically aimed at strategic planning, so that we can hear everyone’s ideas.  Budget issues need to be a yearlong process right now, not just a couple of months in the fall.

CS: I am going to cover my ideas for new revenue in the three topics that follow this one.   Increased revenue sources usually take months to start accumulating, and even longer To actually be available for use.   In the meantime, we need to hold off on any expenditures that are not urgently needed.

I am scheduled to meet at Highline College, to discuss greater cooperative efforts between the city and the college.  It may be that a way can be found for students to gain college credit for real-world work experience with the city, in an area related to the degree they are pursuing.    Other organizations and individuals can be approached, to help build, repair, replace or adopt small parks or playgrounds or facilities, even If only to keep them clean, mowed and open.

3. Business activity downtown remains sluggish. What will you do to position the city to encourage increased business activity and development downtown?

MP: Business activity across the country is sluggish and we are not immune to national/global economic problems.  It will help to get the Des Moines Creek Business Park up and running as that will also be one of, if not our most, significant employment centers and all those workers may want to come down to the waterfront area for lunch or a break.  The city can make sure that infrastructure is in place for new projects downtown.  While the Business Park could become our primary new revenue generator, I see the downtown as providing locals and visitors with services including restaurants, legal, medical, food shopping, specialty shops, businesses that might provide a place for youth/teens to hang out, etc.  It seems unlikely that the downtown will ever look exactly like or serve all the same functions as it did decades ago and it is time to re-think the contemporary function of a downtown in a small city that is part of a larger metropolitan area.

CS: Downtown Des Moines  has enormous potential.  The first and easiest way to increase business development downtown  is to extend to 2011, the reduced parking requirements for new businesses, (which expires at the end of 2009).  The next easy step is to put signage on the roads leading to downtown, so that people know they can use 7th avenue too.  Another help would be to have walking maps available in stores and restaurants, the marina, and in kiosks at each end of downtown. (Rotary has plans for kiosks).  Larger improvements would include water main replacements, bringing pressure up to fire flow requirements. Lack of adequate fire flow has halted new buildings that would have been built before the recession began.  A major limitation for growth on Marine View Drive is its designation as  State Highway 509.  The rules for State Highways create major problems for using it as a main business street.

Council must make it a priority to find a way to reach agreement on concepts for downtown planning and building heights.

4. Should Des Moines promote itself as a tourist destination? If yes, what should the city do (e.g., encourage development of bed-and-breakfasts, Puget Sound tour boat cruises from the Marina, summer salmon bakes)? If no, why not?

MP: Most towns have something that would interest tourists.  Des Moines has the Marina and Des Moines Creek Beach Park (which will soon sport a great fully paved walking/biking trail), Redondo Boardwalk, and Saltwater State Park.  The Field House is also a well known historic structure which the city has wisely maintained.  The Beach Park will have fully refurbished structures which can be a center for both civic activity and tourism.  Who wouldn’t want to spend a day in such a beautiful location?  I think our city is in a good situation to promote these amenities as they come on line.

CS: A modest investment in marketing could bring a very real and very fast return on investment.  Our town has been the “BAD” example used in Economic Development &Tourism seminars ever since Booth Gardner was governor.(1988)   “ Fantastic Views, rugged mountains, a wonderful walkable marina and fishing pier, a great variety of restaurants, a historic beach park, easy access from an interstate freeway, International Airport and 6000+ hotel rooms within 15 minutes by car.”  And they don’t bring those spendable dollars into Des Moines.  They don’t even know Des Moines is there. Many of my clients (business travelers) have stayed in local hotels over the years, and will ask “where can I buy a good bottle of wine and flowers for dinner at my new bosses house”  or “steaks for his barbecue”   or  “ Really? A marina! Can I jog there? Saltwater? Rugged Mountains?  Restaurant overlooking it all? Really?  Where is it?  I didn’t see a brochure at the hotel.”

A Tourist, today, is more likely to say “We planned our trip on the Washington State Tourism website.  Saw lots of neat waterfront towns, didn’t notice Des Moines”  (That’s because Des Moines has never made it a priority to develop its State Tourism site).      And don’t forget we could also promote  Redondo, Salty’s, The MaST Aquarium, fishing pier, boardwalk.

People who think we have nothing to offer, don’t know what they are talking about!    I have been promoting Des Moines for years in Note Cards, Calendars, and  in tourism magazines.  We need to get our act together and put our town on the map.

5. Do you support development of Waterview Crossing and Des Moines Creek Business Park? If yes, what will you do to position the city to help these projects move forward? If no, why not?

MP: Just as the Business Park has a primary role for revenue generation and the downtown has a primary role for providing services to the locals, the Pacific Ridge area has been zoned as a location for the density increases required under the Growth Management Act.  Light rail and employment centers will themselves increase the viability of residential projects in Pacific Ridge. I understand that developing the Pacific Ridge area for density will have the least disruption to the rest of the city and is ideally situated near transportation services, including future light rail, as well as employment opportunities at the proposed Business Park. I struggle with the idea of displacing current residents, not having available and comparable alternatives within Des Moines to which they might relocate. Currently, the city is not required to provide relocation assistance to those residents. I would like to see that the city finds ways to provide assistance to the residents. The timing of these projects is more dependent on factors not under the control of any local government.  I believe that our current focus should be on the Business Park for revenue generation which may then spur interest in the residential development on Pacific Ridge, just at the time that the light rail planning process focuses on South King County.

CS: I support redevelopment of both Pacific Ridge (a blighted & crime ridden area) and the Des Moines Creek Business Park, as well as any other well-thought-out endeavor that would create a sustained increase in city revenue and the overall betterment of Des Moines.

If or when Waterview Crossing is built, it is likely to be the first large redevelopment project within Pacific Ridge` It is currently a mobile home park of about 90 households on about 6 acres, with frontage on the east side of Highway 99.  Sunway Services, represented by Matthew Chan entered into a negotiated development agreement with the city of Des Moines on November 15th 2007. This agreement was passed by a unanimous vote of the council.  Sunway Services undoubtedly will determine When the economy will support starting the first phase of  their project. The residents of the mobile home park are entitled by law, to one year’s notice to vacate.  Council has not received any information to indicate that such notice has been implemented.

The Des Moines Creek 89 acre Business Park was slated to begin development the summer of 2009.  The developer withdrew in 2008 after the economy became worse than anticipated, and the Port was not willing to discuss contract renegotiations.  Our City Manager has indicated that some Port commissioners seem to be more willing to listen now, and it may be feasible to reopen discussion.

I have requested that all due diligence be put into talks with both parties, and see if the project can be revitalized.  If the developer is not interested, it is pertinent to determine exactly why, and to see if the decision can be turned around. If not, then it would seem worthwhile to ask the port to check back with the ten developers who were not previously selected, and see if any of them retains an interest in the project.  If all possible efforts fail to stimulate any interest, if it becomes likely that several years will pass before supply and demand correct themselves, then I would question the wisdom of prioritizing money into road improvements for that project any sooner than is warranted.

Coming up next, the candidates for Position #7: Dave Kaplan vs Susan White.

The Des Moines City Council voted unanimously at their Oct. 8th meeting to oppose Initiative 1033 on the November 3rd ballot.

I-1033 would limit the annual growth in revenue that cities, counties and the state could use to provide services under a formula based on inflation and population growth. Revenue from both taxes and fees above that limit would be used to reduce property taxes the following year.

The resolution adopted by the Council said “the initiative will undermine the ability of the state, counties and cities to provide services to constituents.”

It continued, “the effect of the limitation is exacerbated during the recession, as the Initiative does not address the impacts of a recovery following and an economic downturn.”

City Manager Tony Piasecki said a fiscal analysis indicates that under I-1033, Des Moines would lose almost $1 million over the next four to five years.

In less than two years, the City already has experienced a decline in revenue of almost $3 million, Piasecki noted. As a result, Council reduced 2009 general fund expenditures by over $1 million. Another round of cuts totaling about $2 million now must be made to balance the 2010 budget.

Mayor Bob Sheckler said, “Typically as a Council we don’t take positions on ballot issues, but we made an exception in this instance.

“One of our greatest concerns is that I-1033 doesn’t take into account the fluctuations in revenue that smaller cities experience,” he said.

“For example, revenue from a large development, including permit fees, sales taxes and utility taxes, may have to be used to reduce property taxes citywide rather than to pay for the additional services required by that development.”

In case you missed the various Des Moines City Council Candidates Forums, we here at The Waterland Blog have gone to the trouble of creating our own online forum which consists of answers to five relevant questions we emailed to each candidate.

Here are the answers from the candidates for Position #1 – Anne Farmer and Matt Pina. Please note that we have made no alterations to their text, so the words used is purely theirs, including any typos or other errors.

Each candidate is identified by their names and headshots, then initials:

1. What is the primary objective you hope to accomplish for Des Moines if you are elected to the council?  What qualifies you to lead this effort?

ANNE FARMER: The primary objective I have for Des Moines is to return cash flow to the community in the form of tax revenue.  This means becoming business friendly as quickly as possible while maintaining funding for essential public services such as police and parks/recreation.  Increased tax revenue will give the city the support it needs to pay for essentials such as parks/recreation as well as pay for upgrades to the marina and other areas that attract visitors to our community.  The whole idea is to make Des Moines a safe and attractive place for businesses, residents, and visitors.

I am qualified to lead this effort due to my experience in sales, marketing, and business development.  I also have a Master Degree in Business Administration.  In the past I worked as a Director of Corporate Development where I was responsible for making failing businesses either profitable or marketable to be sold to large corporations.  Currently, I work in a sales capacity for a large pharmaceutical company. This translates well to running a city because I am highly accustomed to dealing with government regulations.  I also have major responsibility for generating revenue and managing a budget for which I must account for every penny spent.  These skills are essential for handling Des Moines current budgeting crisis.  I feel that my background has prepared me well for this and will also help lead the effort to promote Des Moines as a destination.

MATT PINA: My main objective as a Des Moines Councilman is to focus on the city’s revitalization and redevelopment. This doesn’t mean that we should overlook the primary responsibilities of public safety, transportation and public services. What it does mean is that the council needs to work together with the community to develop a vision for the future that we can work toward. Once the vision is established, plans will need to be made, issues identified and efforts prioritized. To ensure accountability, the council will need to identify a project manager or Economic Development Manager that will oversee the effort and provide frequent community/council progress reports.

My background in finance, business, quality assurance and project management will help as the council provides direction, feedback and leadership oversight with this process. My experience and relationships in government will help as we address the many challenges that are likely to arise during this process and look for ways to solve each issue.

2. Des Moines tax revenue is down sharply, as reflected in the budget-cutting process for 2010. What will you do to increase revenue for the city without negatively impacting city residents and businesses?

AF: Not only is tax revenue down, Des Moines ranks lowest in the State of Washington for cities with populations over 20,000.  Des Moines is not business friendly, and the city needs to take action to attract investors, builders, and business owners.  To make this happen we need buy in from the council members as well as a strategic marketing plan to promote the city as business friendly.

First of all it starts with the City Council as a whole making the tough decisions that need to be made rather than spend 4 more years arguing about how to do it.  Secondly, we need to remove the roadblocks in the permitting process as well as reduce permitting costs.  Even though permits generate revenue, the city is going to have to give up something to get something.  Third, I would like to work directly with developers and current building owners to make adjustments to zoning and height restrictions.  As it stands right now, Des Moines is incredibly expensive for both commercial and residential developers to build in.   We need to make the process easy and affordable as well as provide incentives such as the option to build an extra 10ft in height on certain parcels.

All of these adjustments if done correctly can be made with little impact to residents and businesses.  Minor adjustments to height restrictions downtown will make it easier for developers to build attractive residential/commercial buildings near the water.   Also,  updated buildings will attract more local businesses to move here.  With regards to the other commercial areas of Des Moines, expediting improvements to zoning and permitting will also make it easier for large retailers such as Costco or Home Depot to move into Des Moines rather than continue to locate themselves just outside city limits.

MP: The long term solution to resolving the city’s budget challenges rests on the development of the city’s business base. In the short term the city must partner with its existing businesses and help to promote them along with the other assets Des Moines has to offer.  I will consider opportunities from corporate sponsors as a way to generate revenue and help with park maintenance and facility support.

I will also explore partnerships with fellow cities and government entities to see if there are other opportunities that make sense and help ease the cost of certain operations. Additionally, I will look for ways to increase efficiencies through automation and process improvements. Sample ideas might include an automated building permit process that will minimize the staff and effort required to process each request. Another idea is to look for and incorporate the  use of workforce multipliers like internet ready police vehicles, providing instant access to offender records and in-car remote visibility of high-crime hot spots. Finally, I will look for opportunities with Stimulus Funds and other pro development initiatives that may help to address capital infrastructure

3. Business activity downtown remains sluggish.  What will you do to position the city to encourage increased business activity and development downtown?

AF: As I mentioned in the question above, this all starts with making our commercial areas attractive to investors, builders, and business owners.  We need a strategic marketing plan as well as definable goals to accomplish these improvements.  Downtown Des Moines, can not be properly marketed until the council removes all of the roadblocks to development as well as clean up criminal activity in the area.  No matter what direction you drive in to our city, you are greeted with an unsafe feeling.  This is not only disconcerting for people who live here but also people who shop and visit here.  Des Moines is a prime location for retail businesses if we market it properly and make it easy to build here.  We are next to the water, 8 minutes from the airport, 20 minutes from Seattle or Tacoma, and easily accessible from the freeway.  Each day, thousands of cars pass through town on Marine View Dr and Pacific Hwy.  We need to give people a reason to stop, get out of the car, and open their wallets.

If the council can move forward from this mess and start working together, we can take action now and start attracting new businesses right away.

MP: Community celebrations, activities and events help to attract people to the town and create the buzz “that something’s happening in Des Moines”.  When the city sanctions a local event, the council needs to do so stating a “Des Moines first” mandate. This means that if there are food and beverage opportunities at an event, preference will be given to bids from local merchants.

I see partnership opportunities with the Highline College media and marketing programs to promote Des Moines businesses both within the community and in the surrounding areas. This will create both business and learning opportunities.

An initiative to communicate to local community about how much their sales tax contributes to the finances of the town will help to create awareness and encourage a “shop in Des Moines” attitude.

We need to engage in dialogue with the local merchants to make sure we understand what it is about business in Des Moines that is working and what isn’t. The council needs to understand their issues and make necessary changes to ensuring that we are both business friendly and competitive with the other cities in this area.

Finally, we need to reach out to successful businesses in surrounding areas and ask them to consider expanding into our city. This will help to decrease vacancies while increasing both community draw and revenue.

4. Should Des Moines promote itself as a tourist destination? If yes, what should the city do (e.g., encourage development of bed-and-breakfasts, Puget Sound tour boat cruises from the Marina, summer salmon bakes)?  If no, why not?

AF: The city should absolutely promote itself as a tourist destination.  However, that likely won’t be able to happen until the business community is brought back.  The combination of a run down city with little retail shopping coupled with crime ridden streets lacks any desirability to tourists.  If we can get the city back on track, bring back tax revenue and clean up the crime there will be plenty of money for promotion of Des Moines as a destination.  As I mentioned above, Des Moines is located in a prime location for all of this.

MP: We need to promote Des Moines as a local destination (shopping, dining, view walks, etc). However, I don’t know if all the examples given are reasonable considerations.  I believe the community supports events like car shows, salmon bakes and summer concerts. I don’t know if they will support Puget Sound tour boats. This option requires much more thought and consideration. Is our marina equipped to support these vessels without costly infrastructure development?  Additionally, (other than going to Anthony’s) what do we have at the marina for tourists (without land transportation) to do when they arrive? It’s a possibility, but it will take some discussion.  We need to work through the ideas and identify those that are a best fit for the city. We definitely need to improve the connection from the marina to downtown.

Des Moines is really a diamond in the rough, we just need to work together to help it shine.

5.  Do you support development of Waterview Crossing and Des Moines Creek Business Park? If yes, what will you do to position the city to help these projects move forward?  If no, why not?

AF: I support development of all commercial areas in Des Moines.  However, the projects must be prioritized and the council must agree on a vision for each area.  These projects have been debated and talked about for too long and it should be the council’s responsibility to set a realistic goal for development.  I would like to see Des Moines resemble Edmonds or Kirkland. These are smaller cities that have several different commercial areas.  Each city has a quaint waterfront filled with local businesses, restaurants and bars, followed by larger commercial areas near the freeway that cater to big box stores like Costco as well as office parks.  I think we need to look at what these two cities have done grow their commercial areas and model our vision after them.  It is absolutely possible for small towns to have a successful business community no matter how bad the economy is.

MP: It is clear that Des Moines needs to develop a business park in the 90 acre Port of Seattle buyout area. It will create jobs and the help to provide necessary, long-term contributions to the city’s budget. There have been many discussions and plans for how to do this. I believe the process even got to the point of developer selection before the downturn in the economy. I will use my position on the council to partner with others to get this effort restarted and moving forward again.

Hopefully this little Q&A will help you to decide on whom to vote for in the Nov. 3rd election.

Coming up next, the candidates for Position #3: Carmen Scott vs Melissa Ponder.

Police chiefs from King and Snohomish counties voiced their concerns at a press conference in Burien Wednesday morning (Oct. 21) about potential impacts of Initiative 1033 on public safety – especially in smaller cities.

But they stopped short of opposing the revenue-limiting ballot measure. Public officials are prohibited by state law from campaigning for or against ballot proposals as well as candidates.

Instead, said Scott Kimerer, Burien police chief and chairman of the King County Police Chiefs Association (KCPCA), “People have a right to make their own decisions on how to vote. But they need to be informed….

“We are encouraging citizens to ask their city governments what effect I-1033 would have on their ability to provide services if it is successful.”

Kimerer and Des Moines Police Chief Roger Baker represented Highline cities at the press conference.

I-1033 would limit future growth in the revenue cities, counties and the state could take in, based on annual growth in inflation and population. Revenues above the limit would be used to reduce property taxes.

“Already reeling from tough economic times that have seen 15 to 20 percent reductions in revenues, the financial analysis indicates that police services, many of which have already experienced budget cuts this year, could be further restricted to the point of struggling to meet the needs of their citizens’ public safety concerns,” Kimerer said.

“Police budgets generally represent half or more of cities’ general fund expenditures,” he added. And there has been “a 30 percent drop in cities’ anticipated enrollment of new hires in the (state) police academy” in Burien.

The impact of I-1033, if approved in the November election, Kimerer said in response to a question, also could delay North Highline annexation by Burien, which now is expected to take place in late March. Residents of the southern part of the unincorporated area voted 56 percent to 44 percent in August to become part of the city.

Burien City Manager Mike Martin, who attended the press conference, concurred with Kimerer’s assessment.

“If people want less government, they will get less government,” Martin said. “There will be fewer departments and less people (police officers) on the street.”

Kimmerer said “the easily discernable impacts of I-1033 can be found by examining the general funds and budgets of the 82 percent of suburban cities in King County having a population of fewer than 50,000. These cities function with a small margin to provide all the needed services and are very transparent in their budget process and revenues.”

Statewide, 94 percent of all cities have populations less than 50,000.

Marysville Police Chief Rick Smith, chairman of the Snohomish County Police Chiefs and Sheriffs Association, said his department experienced sharp cuts due to the recession this year. Further cuts, should I-1033 pass, “could impair our ability to provide services to our city….

“The whole criminal justice system (including prosecutors, courts and jails) would be impacted, maybe significantly,” Smith said. “We just don’t know. The bottom line is for citizens to ask officials what impact 1033 would have on their city.”

Any cuts in the budgets of local law enforcement agencies “minimizes our response,” he added.

One problem with I-1033, said one police chief who spoke on condition of anonymity, is that it “targets state government, large counties and large cities” without taking into account the different circumstances of smaller cities and counties.

by Mark Neuman

Seven candidates for the Des Moines City Council, including incumbents and newcomers, met last night (Tues. Oct 13) at a public event sponsored by the North Hill Community Club.

Event organizers set the ground rules at the outset, asking the approximately 70 attendees to refrain from debating with the candidates during the forum.

“This is a ‘get aquatinted’ event,” said host Don Riecks. “If anyone has a wish to speak up about a candidate, you’re welcome to take it outside.”

It was cold and rainy Tuesday night, and from this reporter’s perspective everyone appeared to stay indoors.

The North Hill Community Club is located in a residential area just east of 1st Avenue South in north Des Moines.

Incumbent Carmen Scott, running for re-election to Position 3, took a portion of her allotted ten minutes to praise fellow council member David Kaplan, who is running for Position 7 against another current council member, Susan White. This prompted host Riecks to interject a request for all candidates to refrain from endorsing any other candidate during the forum.

Scott, a longtime Des Moines resident, is completing her second term on the council. She emphasized her years of life and business experience.

“Being experienced and mature has value,” Scott said. “I miss the downtown we used to have. We need to remove the hurdles that get in the way of business.”

Melissa Ponder, challenging Scott for Position 3, emphasized her 18 years of residence in the Zenith area of Des Moines. Ponder and her husband have four children.

“We need to demystify the process of government. We need to increase our human services budget,” Ponder said. “The council as it stands now is not unified on the future of Des Moines. We need to be thinking 20 to 25 years into the future.

“I’m new to politics, but I am a quick learner,” Ponder said. “I bring with me no allegiance to any special interests.”

Matt Pina and Anne Farmer are running against each other for Position 1. Neither are incumbents. Both spoke of their respective business experience and understanding of complex budgetary issues.

Farmer has worked for several years as director of business development for a pharmaceutical company.

“I know what it takes to manage a budget,” Farmer said. “I have to account for every penny. I have to report to the Food and Drug Administration.

“I will not cut the police budget,” Farmer said.  “I want to see a more aggressive approach to dealing with crime. We need to consider bringing in red light (traffic) cameras. Those cameras can be donated for free. They can generate revenue overnight.

“I’d like to see some height restrictions near the marina taken away,” she said.

Pina is a longtime employee of Alaska Airlines in the Information Technology area.

“We need to make the marina pedestrian friendly,” Pina said. “Also, Pacific Ridge takes an inordinate amount of our police resources. We need to re-develop Pacific Ridge,” he said, referring to the eastern portion of Des Moines through which runs Pacific Highway South.

“Maybe a Costco or a Home Depot should be brought in to the potential business park area near 216th,” he said. “I have a passion for Des Moines.”

David Kaplan and Susan White are each running for a third term on the council. One will win. One will lose.

White spoke of her lobbying in the nation’s capital to bring back to Des Moines over $200,000 for Beach Park projects.

“We need change on the Des Moines city council,” White said toward the end of her ten minutes. “Give new candidates an opportunity.”

Kaplan said “This election is about leadership. We need to remove the burden of taxes from property owners. We have never taken a root look at our budget. We need to change the way we budget.

“We need to tie the marina to downtown,” Kaplan said. “The marina feels walled off.”

Melissa Musser, who is running unopposed for Position 5, also spoke, joking good-naturedly about being given only one minute to speak.

On a more serious note Musser told attendees “North Hill residents will be represented (by me), not overlooked.”

The General Election is Tuesday, November 3.

Highline Community College’s student government will be hosting the next Des Moines City Council Candidates Forum on Monday, Oct. 19th from 2:30pm to 3:30pm in Building 7 on their main campus.

As election day (Tues., Nov. 3rd) draws nearer, things are heating up in the Waterland City, so this should be a lively forum.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Des Moines City Council Candidates Forum

WHEN: Monday, October 19th, from 2:30pm – 3:30pm

WHERE: Highline Community College’s main campus, Building 7. The campus is located midway between Seattle and Tacoma at South 240th Street and Pacific Highway South (Highway 99); address: 2400 S. 240th Street, Des Moines, WA 98198.

COST: FREE and open to the public

INFO: The forum will be a moderated question and answer session to introduce the Des Moines City Council candidates and their platforms followed by a town-hall style question and answer session with the audience.

SPONSORED BY: Associated Students of Highline Community College

Last week the Waterland Blog sat down with our latest Advertiser Carmen Scott, to learn of her goals in representing you for the next four years. Carmen is a current Des Moines councilmember, running for re-election to City Council Position #3.

Carmen told The Waterland Blog:

“Anyone who wants to effectively represent the best interests of 30,000 people needs the knowledge, skills, and judgment to arrive at sound logical conclusions, articulate their position well, and earn the agreement of enough other council members to be on the prevailing side of decisions. I am effective, respected, and deeply aware of the importance of the decisions we make on behalf of our community.

“As a successful business woman, I developed and honed my analytical skills, particularly in understanding property values and factors that affect desirability of neighborhoods and communities. I love a challenge, have always needed to learn and excel. Seattle Magazine has named me (twice) as a 5 star winner of their Real Estate “Best in Client Satisfaction” award. When the people of Des Moines elected me, YOU became my clients. I will never waver in my dedication to your best interests.

“I believe that a balanced life must include service to your community, Over the last four years I have gradually moved from a business career, to full-time community service. Now serving as a Board member of the Des Moines Legacy Foundation and of the Des Moines Historical Society.”

Carmen’s “time to give back” actually started in 1978, and continues through today:

• Des Moines Planning Commissioner (1978 – 1988)
• City Council (1988 – 1991)
• Earned State Historic Register recognition of Covenant Beach Historic District – (1988)
• Des Moines representative on the Regional Transportation committee (1989 – 1991)
• Waterland events photographer (1989 – 2004)
• Board member of the Des Moines Legacy Foundation, a charitable organization founded to raise funds to sustain critical programs and activities benefitting youth, family and seniors in Des Moines (2004 – present)
• Very involved in research and documentation leading to placement of Covenant Beach Historic Camp on the National Historic Register (2005 – 2006)
• Des Moines City Council (2006 – present)
• Created Des Moines Note Cards as a fund raiser for the Legacy Foundation. At the Farmer’s Market almost every Saturday with 60+ Des Moines Note Card scenes . (2006 – present)
• Commits each August to creating a Des Moines Calendar for the community, and as a fundraiser for the Legacy Foundation (2005, 2009, 2010) (2010 on sale now $5.00 each, Farmer’s Market)

As a councilmember, Carmen has spent the last four years serving on the Municipal Facilities Committee, the Finance and Economic Development Committee, council liaison to the Farmers Market Board of Directors, the Des Moines 50th birthday committee, where she created and donated historical displays for a number of events, and helped to organize and arrange video interviews of people who have been important to our city over the last 50 years.

Briefly, from Carmen’s campaign platform:

THE BUDGET:
I will not vote to sell the marina. I will not close down the parks and recreation programs. I have opened discussion on ways to enhance revenue options and look for opportuni- ties to encourage renewed interest in development of the 89 acre business park (a victim of the economic downturn). We are looking at very painful budget decisions over the next few years. Experience and in-depth knowledge are essentials for sound decisions and a sustainable recovery.

POLICE and PUBLIC SAFETY:
Public Safety is essential, a number one priority. I worked for passage of the Levy Lid Lift, have provided materials to assist with police department recruiting and have appreciated their participation in my community calendar projects.

DOWNTOWN:
Many good businesses and services have disappeared from downtown Des Moines over the years. Those which depend on discretionary spending are now facing very tough times. Some of the problems bear directly on transportation decisions made 18 years ago, and carried out in 1993. I am a strong voice for healthy growth, and aware of the complex factors that must be resolved.

PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS:
As a member of the Municipal Facilities committee, (and as a mother whose children practically lived at the fieldhouse as they were growing up) I am deter- mined that we be good stewards of the land and facilities entrusted to our care. Many of our citizens are struggling financially. I believe it is our responsibility to see to it that city parks stay open and recreational and senior programs remain available at a time when they are most needed.

Carmen never runs out of energy when it comes to helping Des Moines, through her efforts on the Council and her commitment to the community.

“Your vote in this election is vital to how you will be represented in the next four years. I would be honored to serve you again.” said Carmen.

by Bob Sheckler
Mayor, City of Des Moines

November’s election for three City Council members comes at a critical time in Des Moines. First and foremost, our city faces a $2 million revenue shortfall. By the time the Council members elected in November take office in January, the 2010 budget will have been adopted.

The new Council must deal with multiple impacts from sharp budget cuts that, by law, must be made by Dec. 31 – and with a struggling business community buffeted hard by the lingering recession.

This is why, for the first time ever as mayor, I find it of major importance to endorse publicly the candidates who, I believe, can best serve Des Moines during these hard times and will best guide Des Moines to a brighter future.

Having observed two of these candidates during my six years as presiding officer of the council, and having observed all candidates on the ballot at every campaign forum held during the last two weeks, I endorse strongly:

• Matt Pina for Position 1
• Carmen Scott for Position 3
• Dave Kaplan for Position 7

As City Council members, both Carmen and Dave do their homework, study the issues, and make reasoned and deliberate decisions – based on logic rather than emotion – to provide a local government that enhances the safety, quality of life, and economic well-being of all our citizens and businesses. As a past Highline School Board member, Matt has shown that he will bring the same kind of advocacy for our city to the next Council.

And, from the perspective of a presiding officer, I would have done exactly what Councilman Dave Kaplan did – run against Councilwoman Susan White in her bid for re-election. On too many occasions she comes unprepared to Council meetings. She also has jeopardized the City several times by stating her opinions during public hearings before all testimony has been received. Des Moines both needs and deserves better.

Councilwoman Carmen Scott has a breadth and depth of proven experience that is difficult to find on a council in a city this size. By contrast, her opponent had no actual experience before running for City Council – and has seemed inept when it comes to city issues in her answers at candidate forums.

Matt Pina has incredible experience from his years on the Highline School Board. It is obvious at the candidate forums that he understands the critical issues facing our city and comes prepared – essential attributes for a council member. On the other hand, his opponent, too, is lacking in actual public experience and awareness of the issues.

One only would have had to listen to these people during candidate forums in the past two weeks, when the contrasting qualities of the candidates have become readily apparent.

It is important to note, again, that the next City Council will deal not with “window dressing” and “feel good” issues. The recession that has impacted every state, county and city has stalled plans for development of several projects, large and small, in Des Moines, and depressed local economic growth. As a city, we now must continue to plan for new development, new growth, and renewed economic vitality.

Regrettably, some in our community – council members, candidates, and citizens – do not share this vision. They cling to a “no-growth, status quo” attitude that, if allowed to expand, would relegate Des Moines to second-class status, thereby diminishing the quality of life for all residents and downgrading the economy for our local businesses.

Dave, Carmen and Matt, however, are leaders we can count on to help us weather this economic crisis and move into a better future, not by looking behind as some would prefer to do, but by always looking ahead and moving the city forward.

[EDITOR'S NOTE: Have something you'd like to say? Then email us a Letter to the Editor by clicking here, and pending our review, we'll most likely post it.]

[EDITOR'S NOTE: The following is a Guest Editorial by Des Moines resident Greg Fox:]

by Greg Fox

With the recent public outcry that the city has no money and needs new development downtown, the question that many (including several councilmembers which is a bit puzzling) have asked is:

WHY IS THERE NO NEW DEVELOPMENT?

I believe there are a number of reasons why – let’s look at a few:

1. LACK OF WATER:
   Water District 54 supplies the water to the downtown area. After years of lying (as in not telling the truth) it was discovered that the water district has done no upgrades to its water system for some time. They have continually told the city and the fire department that water is not a problem (they still stand by that statement), but, in fact, there is a definite lack of water. The fire department has made the statement that if there were a major fire downtown, the fire department could possibly suck the water lines dry and collapse the system. Kind of scary if you really think about it. In order to build in the area, the buildings have to be a much higher fire rated construction (read that as more expensive-at least 50% more cost than if there were enough water). The city has known this for some time now (years). This was discussed by the council several times, but to no avail. It was put on the back burner before the last election and since there is no new development planned, it is not now an issue.
2. NO POWER:
   Puget Sound Energy supplies the electricity to the area. Much of the downtown area has only single phase power available. What this means is that the equipment (elevators, lights, heaters, air conditioners etc…) in the buildings is not as efficient (and costs more to operate) and the equipment is much more expensive (or not available) than if three phase power were there. PSE has said that it would cost approximately $100,000 to upgrade the electrical grid in the downtown area and they were not going to pay for it.
3. CITY REQUIREMENTS:
   The city zoning regulations allow for only a maximum of three stories above grade in the downtown area (a council person lives just above the downtown area and is insistent that the rules be enforced to the letter as he does not want his view of the sound impeded). The zoning code also requires that the buildings are to be mixed use (the bottom floor is commercial and the upper floors are residential with parking underground). Then there are those pesky noise reduction requirements (such as special sound reducing glass which is at least 50% more costly than normal glass) that the FAA requires and is strictly enforced by the building department.

What all of this means is that the cost of construction is much higher than in Seattle or other adjacent communities. The developers know this and go somewhere that is more builder friendly and less expensive to build. Thus no new development!

There is no easy or inexpensive or fast fix to this dilemma. What the city needs to do is take the water away from District 54 and give to another water district that will upgrade the system (this has been explored and another water system was willing and capable of upgrading the water lines). They also need to get PSE into action and install a new system capable of meeting future demands.

Also, ease up on the zoning requirements. Many developers have stated that one or two additional stories would make the difference between being economically viable or not.

Is the view more important? Or the loss of parks and rec and other city services?

You decide, it’s your city!

[EDITOR'S NOTE: The Waterland Blog strives to serve the community of Des Moines by posting frequently-updated, relevant news stories, events and other information, as well as serve as a Forum for civil discussion amongst its residents. It is in this spirit that we encourage our Readers to email us their own stories or "guest editorials," and as long as they meet our standards and are not libelous, we'll post them. Readers are also encouraged to leave Comments below each story. Thanks for your continued support!]

The next Candidates Forum for Des Moines City Council will be Tuesday night, Oct. 13th at 7pm at the North Hill Community Club, located at 20827 3rd Ave South.

This will be the next opportunity to ask questions of each candidate, and all residents are invited.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Des Moines City Council Candidates Forum

WHEN: Tuesday, Oct. 13th at 7pm

WHERE: North Hill Community Club, located at 20827 3rd Ave South in Des Moines.

INFO: According to NHCC Board of Trustees member Amy Bergstrom:

“This coming Tuesday, (10/13) at 7pm, we will be hosting a political night.

We’ve invited the members of the Des Moines City council and those running for seats on the council to a debate and question and answer from the public.”

Story by Janet Grella
Photos by Scott Schaefer

On a warm and sunny fall Friday afternoon in Des Moines, nearly 400 people rallied at the Mt. Rainier pool for a SOS (Save our Swimming) meeting, complete with one of the world’s fastest women swimmers, Ariana Kukors, along with one of the oldest, Des Moines’ own 104-year old Faith Callahan.

What do these two women have in common? They both train at the Mt. Rainier Pool. To honor them, Mayor Bob Sheckler presented them with certificates commemorating their achievements.

After the appropriate speeches and acknowledgments, Ken Spencer, pool manager and coach for King Contry Aquatics took to the pool, fully clothed as part of an impromptu fundraiser.

USMC private and pool supporter Chris Burrage told the audience that he credits “my father and the Mt. Rainier pool for making me what I am today.” Chris has just returned home to Des Moines from boot camp. “Every community deserves a pool, and this community will fight for this pool,” he added, to roars of approval from the crowd.

Willie Salmond, Jr., chairperson for the committee to Save Our Swimming, told The Waterland Blog that beginning Saturday (Oct. 10th), volunteers will start doorbelling and distributing literature about the pool and their cause.

The audience of both young and old enjoyed an old fashioned BBQ outside, while there was an open swim for anyone who wanted to take a dip.

One banner said it all, for the supporters of SOS:

If Prop. #1 doesn’t pass, the pool will close forever on December 31.

Here’s a photo slideshow by Scott Schaefer of the event:

Click to View Scott Schaefer’s Photo Slideshow

Incumbent Des Moines council members jousted with challengers at a candidates’ forum Wednesday afternoon (Oct. 7th) at the city’s Senior Activity Center.

Despite their stated differences, however, all voiced a common theme on one point: the city needs to attract more businesses, both downtown and along Pacific Highway, to minimize the burden to the taxpayers of Des Moines.

Councilman Dave Kaplan, who is running for a third term – this year for Position 7 against Councilwoman Susan White, who also is seeking election to a third term – began the discussion with a question:

“Is the city better off now than it was four years ago?” His answer was “Yes!” But, Kaplan added, “The city is at a crossroads. We need to build the business base.” To solve the 2010 budget crisis facing Des Moines, Kaplan called for “prioritizing how we spend money.”

His priorities include public safety, transportation and the “living community” (parks and the Mt. Rainier Pool).

White acknowledged the $2 million budget shortfall facing Des Moines in 2010, but said she is “not in favor of cutting parks and rec” to balance the budget. White has been a long-time advocate of senior services and the senior community. She also took a leadership role in getting funding for the city to preserve historic Beach Park.

During “these tough economic times,” White advocates “pulling together for the good of the community, both council and volunteers.”

In another contested race, newcomer Melissa Ponder is running against incumbent Carmen Scott for Position 3.

Ponder told the more-than 100 people in attendance, “Community as a whole can make a difference,” and that “Council needs to make a sense of community.”

Scott told the audience “I thought Tony was using ‘Shock & Awe’ (tactics) just to be certain that no one failed to understand the seriousness of the additional $2 million dollar shortfall.”

She recommended that Des Moines “re-opens discussion on the business park (south of the airport), see that downtown is healthy,” and “overcome reasons that downtown isn’t working.”

Former Highline School Board member Matt Pina and Anne Farmer are running in the city’s other contested council race for Position 1.

Pina said he stands on his record from two terms on the school board, where he represented 100,000 people and helped oversee a $500 million dollar budget, and the appropriate responsibilities that came with this charge.

Pina voiced his “commitment to and passion for the community of Des Moines.” He wants to make “Des Moines business friendly to minimize the burden to the taxpayer. Our current business base is not sufficient to support the need of the community.”

Farmer stated her campaign slogan as “Out with the old (Des Moines) and in with the new (Des Moines).”  She advocates more police, and in some cases, more aggressive police, and cited the drug and gang problems that are moving off Pacific Highway South and into the neighborhoods.

She also ”supports an aggressive approach in attracting business to Des Moines, including incentives for new businesses and changing the height restrictions downtown.”  With a masters degree in business, Farmer would like to “run the city more like a business than a charity.”

Melissa Musser, running unopposed for Position 5, said, “My heart sank over the news of Parks and Rec. We need to find a solution to keep parks open for everyone.” She stated that there is a “lack of common vision on the (current) city council.”

One audience member later questioned Kaplan’s “collegiality towards White” in his last-minute move from running against Musser to running against White.

Kaplan responded that he’d “rather serve with Melissa than Susan.”

White then countered that “Kaplan switched positions to run against me in the last 15 minutes. There was no reason he should have done it. He knew about my husband fighting cancer and my daughter in the hospital for two months (prior to delivering healthy twin boys).”

Publisher/Editor Scott Schaefer captured this photo slideshow of the event:

Click to View Scott Schaefer’s Photo Slideshow

On Wednesday(Oct. 7th)  at the Candidate’s Forum at the Des Moines Senior Activity Center, Mayor Bob Sheckler had the following to say with regards to the proposal put forth Tuesday by Tony Piasecki, City Manager of Des Moines:

“It is the city manager’s responsibility to give options, and it is up the council to take action on them.

People need to be cautious about their response.

It was not recommended that any senior services would be cut. But there are numerous other things that can be done. For instance, a Park District can be created. We can sell concessions at the parks to create a revenue stream. We can look to the outside for a third party to run the sports programs.

The council only now is looking at options.”

As Des Moines apparently has a $2 million shortfall, these options will be discussed starting tomorrow and will continue every Thursday in October at city council meetings.

Incumbent candidates speaking at the forum who came out in opposition to cutting Parks services included Carmen Scott and Susan White.

“I am in shock and awe on the parks story,” said Carmen Scott. “I’m in total support of parks, recreation and seniors,” she added.

White said that the option to cut the park and rec budget “is a bit of a reckless decision. Parks and Rec has a budget of $1.1 million, and it brings in $800,000. I will not be in favor of cutting Parks and Rec.”

So…what do YOU think about this issue? Please take our poll or post a Comment below…

Welcome our latest Advertiser to The Waterland Blog – Melissa Ponder for City Council.

Here’s her info:

The best way to find a solution is to ask questions. As her name implies, Melissa Ponder, is asking questions. How can we connect the entire Des Moines community with city government? How can we maintain small town values in our ever growing city? How can we come up with a stable and structurally sound budget? How can we be creative in serving both our current and our future Des Moines businesses? How can we maintain fairness, integrity, and transparency in our city government? How can we demystify the city council and all it does?

Melissa Ponder is a candidate for Des Moines City Council, Position 3. She has lived in the Zenith area of Des Moines for 18 years and is a registered small business owner with the City of Des Moines.

Ms. Ponder wants to engage you, the resident, and keep you abreast of public hearings – especially on issues that will affect your community in the near and distant future. She believes that a community such as Des Moines can make a great impact. Representation should speak on behalf of and be accountable to you, the people of Des Moines. She will work with a focus on public safety, health, economic sustainability and broadened outreach to the diverse population that makes our city special.

Ms Ponder has been active in community work since her undergraduate days at The Evergreen State College in Olympia. She graduated with a Liberal Arts degree focused on Multicultural and Women’s Studies, Student Development, and Visual Communications.  Among her various volunteer experiences, she has worked with Des Moines Elementary School; Pacific Middle School;   Kikaha O Ke Kai Outrigger Canoe Club-Community Health Education Program Advisor; Asian and Pacific Islander Coalition Against Tobacco; Lokahi Ohana O Hawai`i; Highline Public Schools Superintendent’s Advisory Council on Cultural Competency & Academic Achievement; Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep.

Her work in the past has focused on diabetes and other health disparities and organizational development & educational equity. She is currently serving her second term on the King County Civil Rights Commission for District 5 and served as the Civil Rights Commission Chair for two years. Photography is both a hobby and current part-time profession of hers, as well as a tool she has been able to use to expand her volunteer service in other capacities. As with many, most of her time is devoted to her family, who are all paddlers in the South King County based outrigger canoe club-Kikaha O Ke Kai,as well as training and playing with our dog Chuva.

Ms. Ponder and her husband Vance Bader (a Boeing employee for over 20 years) are the proud parents of four children, including twins in college (Washington State University and University of Hawai`i-Hilo) and two under the age of 11 (Des Moines and Parkside Elementary Schools). She is the second of three daughters to a career army veteran father from Senath, Missouri and first generation Korean American mother from northern Korea, via Seoul.  Born and raised in a military family, her multicultural background, participatory education and work experience have strongly influenced who she is today.

Melissa Ponder would greatly appreciate your support in the November 3 election. If you have any questions or concerns you would like to share, or if you would like to donate to her campaign, please feel free to contact her through her website http://melfordesmoines.com.

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