SNOHOMISH — Two candidates are vying for the City Council seat being vacated by Karen Guzak, a former mayor and active business owner who is ready to pass the torch after 12 years in elected office.
Guzak endorsed Judith Kuleta, who is running against Elizabeth Larsen.
The nonpartisan position is for four years. The Tribune asked candidates questions by email, and here are their responses:
What background do you bring to the city council seat and how will that guide your actions as a councilmember?
Kuleta: My years in the fire service taught me to be a team player and despite personal and/or professional differences, we all worked together to achieve the goal, which in this case, is making the City of Snohomish a great place to live. My varied careers — public safety, nursing, education and private sector work — (gave) me the ability to understand and work with a wide variety of people and ideas. I take an interdisciplinary approach to teamwork.
My years as a fire chief gave me the skills to work in the public light and be responsive to their needs and wants. I can step back and take the “long view” in regards to planning and vision. Over the years I have served on numerous boards and commissions. I will use these skill sets to interact with local commissions and citizen advisory committees.
Larsen: I have 20 years of experience working in the planning field as a consultant and public employee. I spent five years as a consultant working for both private and public clients on infrastructure, private developments, and the protection of natural resources. I have four years of experience working for Snohomish County Planning and Development Services where I reviewed single family, subdivision, and commercial developments for compliance with Snohomish County code.
I have worked for Snohomish County Public Works for 10 years acquiring local, state, and federal permits for county infrastructure projects. I have experience in project management, efficient use of public funds, government policy, planning and development and environmental permitting. I believe the most important thing I have learned through my work in government is how to serve the public interest.
What are the three top priorities for the city of Snohomish, in the next four years’ time?
Kuleta: Top three priorities: 1. Fiscal Responsibility/Economic Development. Continue to work on reduction of sewer/ water bills. Economic Growth. Responsible growth so City of Snohomish budget will continue to be healthy. Continue to set aside money for downturn in economy. 2. Environment. Increase tree canopies, continue to make this a walkable city with Second Street focusing on pedestrian safety. Encourage reduction of single-use plastics. Zero emissions for city vehicles on the deadline set by the city.
Larsen: Making sure Snohomish keeps its small town character for the next 4 years and beyond is a priority. Homelessness and opioid use has had an impact on communities in Snohomish County, including the city of Snohomish. We need to make sure we are continuing to address these issues. Traffic and access to parking downtown have been a challenge and I hope to work with city staff, residents, and local businesses to help provide solutions.
How will you address homelessness and housing affordability in the city?
Kuleta: Collaborate with Housing Hope, Affordable Housing Group and other organizations within Snohomish County to provide services to those in need. There is a need for more affordable housing in the City of Snohomish. Work with Community Resources Office (of the) Sheriff’s Department and additional resources in the City of Everett to provide assistance to those who want to break the cycle of addiction.
Larsen: I believe that prevention through public outreach is very important. A majority of individuals are either transitionally or episodically homeless and would benefit from local services which provide referrals for housing, utility assistance, mental health services, assistance finding and obtaining employment. Homeless Student Stability Program grants (HSSeP) are available to school districts through the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction to help students experiencing homelessness. I also support affordable housing.
Describe your leadership style and how that will contribute to a council role.
Kuleta: My style is collaborative and I believe in empowering others; identifying strengths on the team and allowing them to utilize their strengths to the greatest degree possible. Developing an atmosphere that is collaborative and based on trust. Bringing out the best in each other and knowing when to get out of the way.
Larsen: I have a democratic leadership style. I believe in listening to input from all stakeholders and allowing them to participate in the decision making process. I believe in the free exchange of ideas and encourage discussion. Based on my experience in government, I have found that the public is a great source of information and knowledge. The more people are allowed to give input, the better a project or proposal will be.
What do you hope to see for Snohomish, and how will you contribute to that vision?
Kuleta: Continue to build off of (the) small town atmosphere and ensure growth meets the small town criteria. Work with the Economic Development team for responsible growth. Partner with public and private organizations on affordable housing initiatives/projects. Look for additional resources on affordable housing. Find ways to complete the river walk trail from Cady Park to Pilchuk Julia Landing/park. Work with city and the county of Snohomish to address traffic challenges.
Larsen: My vision for Snohomish includes maintaining our small town character, supporting a strong and diverse economy, and enhancing the recreational and scenic amenities unique to Snohomish.
I hope to contribute to this vision by encouraging a culture that supports the arts, recreation, tourism, and local farming.
I will support actions that attract and retain our unique small businesses and encourage development that maintains our unique and diverse neighborhoods.
