With the City Council elections coming up this fall, two newcomers have thrown their hats into the ring.

During a Port Orchard Bay Street Association (POBSA) meeting March 21,Bek Ashby made an informal announcement she was running for City Council. She is seeking the Position 2 seat currently held by Carolyn Powers, who will retired after 26 years as a councilwoman.

Ashby, who serves as treasurer of the POBSA, said she would make a formal announcement at a later date. She also serves on the Shop SK First Committee on the Chamber of Commerce.

Earlier this week, Kim Punt announced she was running for Power’s seat also.

Punt said she is concerned about the direction the city is taking and the departure of several department heads.

She has been the owner of Alfred Interwest Insurance for the past 16 years. Punt is active within the community and also serves on several City committees.

Councilman Fred Chang held a re-election campaign kickoff March 21 at Cedar Cove Inn. He is currently in the Position 6 seat and serves as mayor pro tem.

For more information, check our website and read complete story in the March 29 issue of the Independent.