Since incumbent Andrew Phillips is not running for reelection, that means two newcomers will be facing off for Poulsbo City Council’s position 1 seat in the Nov. 7 general election, a four-year term.

Rick Eckert is a North Kitsap School District board member, serving since 2017, and he is the liaison to the city of Poulsbo. He has bachelor’s degrees in history and social science and has a certificate in Diversity Studies, the voters pamphlet states.

Zach Ellis has been an ophthalmic technician at various eyecare clinics, an English teacher in South Korea. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University.

Both candidates were asked two questions. What are the five biggest issues facing the city and what is your stance on them?

Eckert: I believe the No. 1 issue facing the city is fiscal sustainability. Poulsbo has been providing ever-increasing levels of service to North Kitsap for some time without expanding its financial resources. We need to figure out new steady, reliable revenue sources to continue to provide these desired, as well as needed, services and be able to expand them in the future without over-taxing residents.

Another important issue is considerate zoning planning to combat the dual issues of increased growth and to address our missing middle-type housing options like apartments and multiplex homes. How we grow should be a local decision and not imposed upon our city by Olympia. Due to recent law changes, we have a limited time to make those decisions before they are no longer subject to local control.

I also think that we need to improve public safety and community well-being. We need a city police force that is sufficient in size, training and resources to keep the city safe for residents, visitors and the additional 20,000 others who transit through it every day.

Paired with this, we need to increase the resources available for people dealing with mental health issues and chemical dependency as well as disabilities.

Ellis: 1) Environmental sustainability: Preserving our natural environment is crucial. I support the promotion of mixed green spaces, green building standards, and transitioning to renewable energy sources to reduce our carbon footprint. Initiatives like Fixit cafes and tool libraries can promote sustainability and community engagement. I’m dedicated to improving parks and green spaces to ensure they remain vibrant, accessible and ecologically responsible.

2) Safe streets and accessibility: Safety and accessibility are paramount in our thriving community. I propose initiatives such as pedestrian-activated crossing lights, strategically placed rumble strips, regular sidewalk maintenance, dedicated bike lanes, pedestrian-only zones and traffic cameras where needed. Enhancing visibility at blind intersections and developing urban trails will contribute to safer streets and sustainable transportation.

3) Inclusivity and safety: Creating a safe and inclusive community is a core vision of mine. I’ll work on improving community policing, promoting diversity and fighting discrimination. Additionally, addressing addiction and mental health concerns through increased city services is essential.

4) Fiscal responsibility: We must reduce waste and inefficiency in city operations. Public input and engagement for major projects will ensure transparency and accountability. Pursuing grants and partnerships can alleviate the financial burden on our city’s budget.

5) Housing availability: This crisis is a pressing concern. I propose collaborating with developers to establish affordable housing options in Poulsbo, including creative concepts like tiny home communities or repurposed shipping container dwellings. Addressing homelessness requires support for shelters and transitional housing programs, along with partnerships with neighboring cities.

Why should voters choose you over your opponent?

Eckert: I bring a wealth of experience to the role of city councilor. My “resume” includes 28 years as a husband, 24 years as a father, 20 years as a sailor, 15 years as a Poulsbo resident, six years as a school board director, and five years as school board liaison to the city. I have already attended nearly 150 council meetings including government-to-government meetings with the Suquamish Tribal Council and various council special committees.

My school board and military leadership experiences have prepared me in many ways for joining the council. I learned to listen to all sides of a situation and how to work collaboratively to make a decision that best meets the needs of those we were meant to serve. I have worked with and led people of every possible background. I understand that every solution must be analyzed not just for whether or not it will actually solve the problem, but what are the second- and third-order consequences of that solution.

I am an independent voice who will listen to all residents equally without regard for partisan or special interests. I am free of any conflicts or obligations that will prevent me from being present at the council every week; prepared, ready to represent my city, and committed to making the best possible decisions. I am proud to say that in six years on the school board, I have only missed one meeting and that was due to COVID. When I take on a responsibility, I give it my all and will do so for City Council.

Ellis: I am dedicated to working with the community and fellow council members to address major challenges and ensure a vibrant and prosperous future for Poulsbo. Together, we can make our city a great place to live, work and thrive.

I would like the voters to consider me over my opponent because I would bring a fresh and unique perspective to the table. At 32 years old, I represent a new generation of leaders, embodying the changing face of leadership. I openly identify as a gay man and face the daily challenges of narcolepsy.

Additionally, I’m a renter without children, have never owned property or a business, and haven’t previously held an elected position. These distinctive qualities provide me with a perspective that is different from those currently in office. With this fresh viewpoint, I aim to offer a diverse and innovative outlook to the City Council, filling a void in experiences that currently exist.