Tell us about your background and how it qualifies you to serve on the city council.
I have been an engineer for more than 20 years. Engineers are, by their nature, problem solvers. I’ve been trying to solve Bremerton’s problems since before you voted me into office, and I will continue to do so whether the voters re-elect me or not.
What is the single most pressing issue in your district? What have you done, and what will you do, to address that issue?
In January, the District which has been solely Manette will change into being half-East and half-West. As anyone who went to East and West High would tell you, there are still some contentious issues. Last term, the most pressing issue was building a physical bridge across the narrows that was good for both sides. My most pressing issue will be to bridge the narrows between Manette and Evergreen Park. But I have confidence that neighbors on both sides can work together.
If elected, what will be your top three priorities as a member of the city council?
1) Bring in new jobs to Bremerton by increasing training and education
2) Keep current Automobile Ferry Funs and add Passenger-only Fast Ferry Service
3)Empower Neighborhoods to keep Bremerton feeling like home
Why are you the better candidate in this election? Why should voters choose you?
I have developed good relationships with other communities and the State Legislature and I hope to use that to help Bremerton on Ferries, Infrastructure, Social Programs, and Higher Education. My opponent tends to work only on tourism and while that can be a good thing, it is not the only thing that will make a Better Bremerton.
If you could change one thing about the City of Bremerton with the flick of a switch, what would it be and why?
Enough money from the state to get our roads, streets, parks, and schools fully maintained. We used to have it, but for the past decade it’s been getting less and less and we cannot keep up with the resources we have. We can’t properly keep up the Gateway Area, and the sidewalks, and the streets. We’re coming out the recession and we’ll need to make sure the Legislature keeps localities in mind.
What would your pitch be to a business owner considering a move to Bremerton?
Bremerton has a very dedicated workforce and the training facilities ready to give you the people you need to get the job done right the first time, from manufacturing, marine trades to aerospace.
What is your position on the proposed charter amendment that would allow the council to meet in Kitsap County, but outside of the Bremerton city limits?
We are trying to get together with Port Orchard and the Port of Bremerton to work on a combined economic development plan, and it would be more convenient if we could meet outside, so I would say “Yes”. However, if it fails, Mayor Matthis is an understanding man and knows how these things go and I am sure he’ll spend the extra time and money to go around Gorst.
