Candidates square off for second open seat on Lake Forest Park Council

Introductory statements from candidates for an open seat on the LFP City Council

Alan Kiest and John Resha will meet in the November general election for the Lake Forest Park City Council position that Councilman Bob Lee now holds.

Here are introductory statements from the two candidates:

Alan Kiest

Alan Kiest

I am running for LFP City Council because residents need a strong voice as we face increased pressures to change our neighborhoods. We need an experienced Councilmember with a long-term perspective who can marry our past with our future. With years of experience, I will continue to stand up for our citizens and help to build up City financial reserves.

Our citizens are asking their elected officials to support the strong qualities of our neighborhoods, not threaten them. They only want redevelopment where it makes sense to those who will live next to it.

It is critical we find workable solutions within a budget that fits our small community. My Master of Public Administration degree from UW has enabled me to craft skillful budget choices that protect core services. As a former United Way Board member I know that government is most effective when it works in partnership with volunteers.

I will work to ensure a City Hall that is inclusive, responsive, and practical so that our gem of a City thrives for generations. I do not accept money from groups with business before the City so you can be confident I will always put the interests of residents first.

Email:   lfpforrest@yahoo.com

Website:  http://www.alankiest.com/

John Resha

John Resha

I’m running for Lake Forest Park City Council because my family and I believe in the future of our City. As your Councilman I will prioritize the issues that most impact people’s lives:

Mobility and Traffic: Congestion on Bothell Way and neighborhood cut-through traffic is on the rise at the same time Metro is proposing to cut our local transit service, I will work to keep our neighborhoods safe, while giving our residents the most choices for how we travel and connect.

Transparent and Accountable City Government: I will insist upon better engagement with citizens around what is being considered and the crucial decisions affecting our City.

Responsible Government Spending: As a nationally recognized government-efficiency expert with a proven record of saving millions of dollars for King County, I know how to deliver on the priorities of our community.

Endorsed by the Teamsters, Machinists, Painters and Allied Trades, SEIU, King County Labor Council, the 46th District Democrats, Executive Dow Constantine, Councilmember Rod Dembowski, four sitting LFP Councilmembers and dozens of residents and local leaders.

I offer you an independent, regionally respected voice, proven leadership, and a commitment to community engagement to address today’s challenges with an open mind.

Email:   john@johnresha.com

Website:   www.johnresha.com