Bremerton City Council candidates' forum

Bremerton City Council candidates were asked what actions in their track record proved they will make the best decisions for the citizens of Bremerton if they are elected. The responses have not been edited.

Council District 1

Wayne Olsen

A LISTENER: Having district meetings every other month and by talking to individuals within my area, I have been able to vote on major issues that reflect their thoughts and wishes.

A TEAM PLAYER: Not only working as a team player within the council but with other entities such as our county commissioners, other city mayors, Bremerton port commissioners and many others to make our city a better place to live and work.

A COUNCIL MEMBER: Working with the citizens in making Bremerton a revitalized and financially sound City.

Brad Gehring

I have, in the past, been a representative for several groups. This has given me experience in soliciting input, gathering information and making accurate decisions.

Recently, I have visited virtually every residence in District one. If I was

unable to speak with the occupants directly, I have left my home and

business phone numbers and my e-mail address. This shows my desire and

commitment to actively communicate. I want to hear the views, concerns,

suggestions and yes, the concerns and complaints of all. I want to be the

voice of the people of district one in our city government.

Council District 2

Leonard Anderson

Understand Community - resident of Bremerton for 35 Years

Understand Puget Sound Naval Shipyard - Recently retired (as Chief Engineer) after 32 years of employment

Understand Schools - served as an elected board member on the Bremerton

School Board for 16 years. Involved in the building and remodel of the

city's schools

Experienced in successfully working in a council system setting to obtain

best solution for problems. Experience gained during service on the School

Board

Understand the tax laws and codes of the State of Washington as they relate to local governments

Cecil McConnell

My background consists of 20 years in the Navy, 15 years as a business owner, with 20 years as a computer programmer and analyst, and 8 years on the City Council.

That experience with my knowledge of the City Charter, the laws of Bremerton and the state of Washington has prepared me to serve the citizens of Bremerton.

My track record is one of serving the citizens by listening to them and being watchful of their monies while improving the status of the city.

Listening to the citizens if one of my most valuable tools.

Council District 4

Wendy Priest

I've shown my commitment to the City and my three goals:

Beautify and preserve our City while making sure quality, safe neighborhoods are part of Bremerton's revitalization. Took a dismal storefront downtown and made an attractive display for a campaign office where on Halloween will have activities and treats for kids. Chair a committee exploring opportunities for public art in the City.

Support public participation. City Comprehensive Plan, serve on City Services and Housing Committees, member of Leadership Kitsap, husband is a teacher at Bremerton High School.

Attend economic development conferences, work in Bremerton, support our businesses by using them!

Ed Rollman

I have been an active, positive, accessible leader on our city the past four years: hired a renowned long term planner/designer who put together a strategic plan which led to our city's economic rebirth/renewal, created 669 new jobs, will create stirring parks and a historic museum which will bring in new businesses,sustain older businesses, give us all cultural gathering places downtown and build up our sales tax revenues which will lead to lower property taxes and feed stronger police/fire departments,streets. My being against regressive taxes, and being a husband, father, family man help balance and round me out."

Council District 6

Dianne Robinson

The actions in my track records are my 25 years experiences in the Federal Government services, my participation in community services, and my achievements that I have received for working with people from all diversified backgrounds. I have received over 20 awards of appreciation, and recognition for outstanding services here in the Bremerton community, and the State of Washington. My interactions with citizens, and taking time to listen to their needs, concerns, and involvement will also prove that I will make the best decision for citizens in the City of Bremerton. As council member I will work for the citizens.

Robert McConkey

We all want prosperity for Bremerton and that is our goal! My track record includes a strong educational background with a Master's degree (with honors) in Business Administration and many years of experience as a successful small business owner and working in the community. I believe the citizen's of Bremerton deserve the best representation possible, good stewardship of their money and a City Government that we can all be proud of. I will work for all the people of my district, make professional and informed decisions and work to make Bremerton the best that it can be.

Council District 8

Will Maupin

I have worked on several committees involved in the effort to revitalize

downtown Bremerton. I believe this is the most important effort for the

City at this point in our history.

I have worked with the Bremerton Housing Authority on a plan to decentralize the low income housing from the Westpark housing area. I have also been instrumental in a cooperative effort between the City, the School District and the Housing Authority to develop a long range plan to locate a new West Bremerton middle school, to revitalize the Anderson Cove area and to provide replacement housing for Westpark residents.

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