2022 Candidates
On behalf of its members, the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce invited all candidates complete a Chamber Questionnaire and share their positions on business, economic, and political issues important to our region. The Federal Way Chamber is nonpartisan and does not endorse candidates.
DISTRICT 30 CANDIDATE QUESTIONNAIRE, 2022
Senate
Name: info@claireforsenate.com
Education: I attended Washington State University where I received a Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition/Child and Family Studies. I then got my Masters of Arts in Home Economics/Adult Education from the University of Northern Colorado.
Current mailing address: 31811 Pacific Hwy S, Ste B #288, Federal Way
Telephone: 206.501.5772
Email: info@claireforsenate.com
Website: claireforsenate.com
Section 2: Business and Economic Issues
A talent pipeline is a critical component to a resilient business community. Washington State is experiencing significant workforce issues in the post-COVID economic climate. How will you address the need of Washington State, and particularly Federal Way, businesses for a skilled and trained workforce?
As a lifetime educator and the vice-chair of the Senate Committee on K-12 Education and Early Learning, I have devoted my career to providing education and opportunity from the earliest stages of life. By supporting our young people from the very beginning, I believe that we build pathways to acquire skills and training that ultimately serve as a direct talent pipeline into our workforce. This support also extends well beyond the benefits of early learning. Through providing quality child care that is accessible and affordable, we enable parents to participate in the workforce and expand the talent pool for businesses in our community. We took a massive stride towards this goal in the passage of the Fair Start for Kids Act in 2021 (E2SSB 5237). In addition, we are currently working to create more apprenticeship programs and career and technical training opportunities for students and workers pursuing careers in the trades. Throughout all this work, I strive to fight racial and economic disparities in education and access to opportunities to ensure that our talent pipelines reflect the future we want to build.
The Chamber’s 2022 Sector Data report noted the economic impact of six Department of Commerce focus industries for job growth. Which of those six do you think should be the focus of strategic business attraction for Greater Federal Way? Please explain why.
When I think about economic development, I do so with three goals in mind. First, I believe that economic growth should allow people in our community to live where they work. Second, I believe that diversity in development, i.e. prioritizing growth in a variety of industries, promotes economic resilience and leaves us less vulnerable to shifts in any one industry. Finally, I measure our success by the opportunities we provide to the entirety of our workforce. I am proud of the investments we’ve directed towards the Maritime industry with the establishment of the Maritime High School, towards the ICT industry by supporting education in computer science, and more, but at the end of the day, I am not an economist. Whether in Maritime, ICT, Agribusiness, or any other area of economic growth, I will continue to look to experts like my partners at the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce for the best way to allocate resources and leverage connections to build a healthy and vibrant economy that serves all residents of the 30th Legislative District.
Do you support the Chamber’s vision of Federal Way as the hub for collaborative economic development in the Central and South Puget Sound region? Why or why not?
I do. At the nexus of Pierce and King county and the South Sound region as a whole, Federal Way is ideally located to serve as a hub for collaborative development. In addition, this kind of collaborative advancement is well suited to improve the lives of citizens of the 30th LD through diverse and inclusive economic growth. Finally, I believe that our communities should be empowered to live where they work and work where they live. By developing Federal Way as a hub for economic development in the Central and South Puget Sound region, we can empower our community members to do this.
Section 3: Community Questions
Retail theft and public safety is a major concern in communities across Washington. One of the most common ways thieves sell stolen goods is online. Do you support or oppose legislation requiring high-volume third-party internet platforms to disclose basic information to provide transparency to both consumers and law enforcement such as is contained in the INFORM Act (HB 1614)? Why or Why not?
Retail theft and public safety is absolutely a major concern for our community, and I wholly support legislation increasing transparency on third party internet platforms. I co-sponsored the Senate companion bill (SB 5533) to the INFORM act and I will continue to work with our partners in the law enforcement and business communities to address these issues.
Homelessness continues to be a national and state-wide issue impacting businesses and their communities. Who do you believe should be addressing the issue of homelessness and how?
I believe that a mixed delivery of services is crucial to our success in addressing the homelessness crisis. If we rely on just one organization to address housing insecurity, we risk falling into one-size-fits-all solutions that do not meet all of our needs. I currently sit on the FUSION Advisory Council, which aids FUSION in their mission to provide housing and support services to families experiencing homelessness in our community. By owning and operating 20 transitional housing units and the Pete Andersen Fusion Family Center in Federal Way, a 90-Bed emergency shelter for families with minor children in their care, FUSION has been instrumental in addressing the issues faced by families. At the same time, we also need to be addressing the needs of veterans, elders, those experiencing substance use disorder, and more. I will continue to support cross-sector, cross-system supports to meet the needs of our businesses and communities.
Section 4: Political Engagement
What elected offices have you held and how has that experience prepared you for the Legislature?
As the current State Senator of the 30th LD, Director on the Federal Way School Board for 8 years, and a career education professional, I have a depth and breadth of knowledge, experience and expertise when it comes to working for children and families. It is these very children and families I work with every day in the community that have inspired me to run for State Senate. I see so many issues intersecting across racial, economic, and social barriers that prevent people from living their happiest, healthiest lives. I have spent my life working to help children and families get access to education and opportunity, and for too long I’ve seen our State Senate mired in gridlock due to partisanship and excuses. I am running to continue my work for the families of our region—who need leaders focused on helping all people, uniting communities, and investing in our children and our future. My approach will continue to be what it has always been: focusing on the needs of people, not parties and special interests.
How does your campaign engage with the community (i.e., local office, door-to-door, Town Hall meetings, phone calls, emails), and how has the pandemic impacted your engagement? Do you plan to continue the same involvement if elected?
Representing my district well requires hearing from people in my community. I have lived in the 30th LD since 1999, and being part of this community is what helps me represent it well. On the campaign trail, me, my campaign manager Marshall, and dozens of volunteers have been knocking on doors and talking to voters – we are well on our way to our goal of 50,000 doors! After the election, I am committed to keeping channels of communication open so constituents can reach my office with their concerns. I have always maintained an open door policy, because I know that quality legislation comes from the people I serve. I also believe that community events and forums present invaluable opportunities for me to hear from constituents.
Does your campaign use local District 30 businesses in the production of marketing collateral? Why or why not?
Yes! We have invested in advertising in the Federal Way Mirror and other local outlets to reach voters in our district. Some of our campaign materials such as signs are printed in union shops that have capacity outside the district.
Section 5: Campaign Activity and Finance
What are your primary sources of funding? Please note the top five (5) business contributors within District 30 and the top five (5) business contributors outside of District 30. Please also note the top five (5) individuals within District 30 and the top five (5) individuals outside of District 30.
I am honored to have maximum contributions from over 75 individuals, organizations, and businesses. Some of my top business contributors from outside the 30th include Gilead Services, Kroger, Amazon, Royal Punjab Management Group 3, and BECU. While I do not have donations from businesses located in the 30th LD, I have received donations from organizations within the district such as LiUNA Local 242, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, and PSE SEIU 1948. From individuals inside the district, a few of my top contributors are Jeff Holden, Denise Yun, Elizabeth Olhsson, Kelly Evans, and Karl Igloi. From outside the 30th, some of my top donors are Cynthia Sears, Suzanne King, Muhammad Nazir, Patricia Wendler, and Matthew Bergman.
A full list of my contributions can be found on the PDC: https://www.pdc.wa.gov/political-disclosure-reporting-data/browse-search-data/candidates/1092/contributions
Please share your major endorsements from the South Sound region (This scope should include the surrounding South King area in addition to Federal Way itself).
I am proud to be endorsed by leaders across South King County including:
Mike Pellicioti, Washington State Treasurer
Jamila Taylor, State Representative 30th LD
Jesse Johnson, State Representative 30th LD
Tracy Eide, Former State Senator
Larry Brown, Auburn City Council Member
Lydia Assefa-Dawson Federal Way City Council Member
Gene Achziger, Des Moines City Council Member
Melissa Stuart, City of Renton Council Member
Bryan Yambe, Deputy Mayor-Fife
Kristin Ang Commissioner, Port Tacoma
Luckisha Phillips, FWPS School Board Director
Trudy Davis, FWPS School Board Director
South King County Professional Firefighters
LiUNA Local 242
A full list of my endorsements can be found at https://www.claireforsenate.com/endorsements/
Have you contracted with a firm or individual to manage your campaign? If so, please provide the name and address of the firm/ individual.
My campaign manager is Marshall Casebeer (1908 N Oakes St, Tacoma WA, marshall@claireforsenate.com).
I am also working with Northwest Passage Consulting (105 South main St #332, Seattle, WA 98104)
Name: Linda Louise Kochmar
Education: BA Degree
Current mailing address: PO Box 3676 Federal Way WA 98063-3676
Telephone: 2536400469
Email: LKochmar1@aol.com
Website: LindaKochmar.com
Business and Economic Issues
A talent pipeline is a critical component to a resilient business community. Washington State is experiencing significant workforce issues in the post-COVID economic climate. How will you address the need of Washington State, and particularly Federal Way, businesses for a skilled and trained workforce?
By emphasizing retraining for those who wish to change careers. The HUB should provide the opportunity for this as well as apprenticeship programs through LNI.
The Chamber’s 2022 Sector Data report noted the economic impact of six Department of Commerce focus industries for job growth. Which of those six do you think should be the focus of strategic business attraction for Greater Federal Way? Please explain why.
Healthcare. A Professor from UW stated that the city should build on technology in the healthcare industry for positive growth and to improve the city's average family income.
Do you support the Chamber’s vision of Federal Way as the hub for collaborative economic development in the Central and South Puget Sound region? Why or why not?
Of course. The chamber understands the importance of business opportunities and workforce development. I think it would be important to develop our retail sector.
Community Questions
Retail theft and public safety is a major concern in communities across Washington. One of the most common ways thieves sell stolen goods is online. Do you support or oppose legislation requiring high-volume third-party internet platforms to disclose basic information to provide transparency to both consumers and law enforcement such as is contained in the INFORM Act (HB 1614)? Why or Why not?
High Volume third party sellers absolutely need to provide banking, contact, and tax information so that their transactions are transparent and law enforcement can provide protection for consumers.
Homelessness continues to be a national and state-wide issue impacting businesses and their communities. Who do you believe should be addressing the issue of homelessness and how?
It is estimated that 90% of the homeless in our region are drug addicted, which is also a cause for mental illness. The state needs to provide money and programs for treatment beds and programs.
Political Engagement
What elected offices have you held and how has that experience prepared you for the Legislature?
Federal Way Councilmember, Mayor, and State Representative
How does your campaign engage with the community (i.e., local office, door-to-door, Town Hall meetings, phone calls, emails), and how has the pandemic impacted your engagement? Do you plan to continue the same involvement if elected?
I have been deeply involved in the Federal Way community for over 25 years through the Federal Way Council as a councilmember and as a State Representative. I will continue to be fully involved in helping our community.
Does your campaign use local District 30 businesses in the production of marketing collateral? Why or why not?
Yes, as possible. We've used mail copies and more at Dash Point extensively.
Campaign Activity and Finance
What are your primary sources of funding? Please note the top five (5) business contributors within District 30 and the top five (5) business contributors outside of District 30. Please also note the top five (5) individuals within District 30 and the top five (5) individuals outside of District 30.
Business within 30th District: Jim Ross, Rick Koch, Mark Freitas, John Goodman, Lowell Cantrell. Business outside 30th: Assoc. General Contractors, WA Assoc. of Realtors, National Federation of Independent Businesses, WA Food Industry, Assoc. Building Contractors of WA. Individuals within 30th District: Jack Dovey, Tom Heunisch, Dr. Peter Shelley, Harold Nyberg, Myong Lee. Individuals outside 30th District: George Rowley, Jr., Kemper Freeman, Senator John Braun, Senator Chris Gildon, Senator Mike Padden
Please share your major endorsements from the South Sound region (This scope should include the surrounding South King area in addition to Federal Way itself).
Pierce Co Exec Bruce Danneier, Rep. JT Wilcox, KC Councilmembrer Regan Dunn, Pierce Co Councilmember Hans Zeiger, Senator Lynda Wilson, Jim Ferrell, Mayor Dave Hill, Mayor Dick Muri, Rep. Drew MacEwen, Mayor Jim Ferrell, DM Susan Honda, CM Jack Dovey, CM Jack Walsh, CM Erica Norton, School Board Quentin Morris, WACOPS, SRCC, Mainstream Republicans, WA Assoc. of Realtors, NFIB, FPIW
ave you contracted with a firm or individual to manage your campaign? If so, please provide the name and address of the firm/ individual.
Justin Matheson, Axiom Strategies, 471 Valley View Lane, Brinnon, WA 98320,
Position 1: House of Representatives
Name: Rep. Jamila E. Taylor
Education: JD, University of Oregon School of Law
Current mailing address: PO Box 3996, Federal Way, WA 98063
Telephone: 206-486-5493
Email: info@electjamilataylor.com
Website: https://www.electjamilataylor.com
Business and Economic Issues
A talent pipeline is a critical component to a resilient business community. Washington State is experiencing significant workforce issues in the post-COVID economic climate. How will you address the need of Washington State, and particularly Federal Way, businesses for a skilled and trained workforce?
As a legislator and a community advocate, I have witnessed how much our state’s workforce has shifted due to the post-COVID economic climate, but also recent living expenses rapidly increases and lack of training available for young people. In order to address the needs of Washington state I believe we must focus on increasing wages and benefits for workers, and increasing opportunities for apprenticeship programs. The pandemic has posed new challenges to meeting basic needs for hundreds of Washingtonians, and changed availability of quality education and training programs. I support laws like the Davis-Bacon Act that utilize our tax dollars to protect workers and their families by establishing prevailing wage laws, laws which ensure that workers receive fair compensation for their labor. I am committed to continuing to uphold prevailing wage laws and continuing to ensure Washington’s workers receive fair and competitive wages. Additionally, I strongly support apprenticeships and the expansion of these programs to open up construction labor to those who seek it. I have seen apprenticeships help court-involved youth become positively involved in the community. I support efforts to expand apprenticeships to help a larger and more diverse group of people, including our Veterans. Apprenticeship programs must be strengthened and supported by elected officials. I have prioritized this goal within the legislature, co-sponsoring initiatives such as House Bill 1504, which increased the investment in workforce education, and am excited to continue prioritizing apprenticeship program utilization and workforce education issues.
The Chamber’s 2022 Sector Data report noted the economic impact of six Department of Commerce focus industries for job growth. Which of those six do you think should be the focus of strategic business attraction for Greater Federal Way? Please explain why.
The state’s population growth is still expected to rise, and Federal Way is in the top 20 fastest growing cities in Washington. The strategic focus could prioritize the Information and communication economic sector since it experienced 16% growth (2015-2020). The types of commercial properties available in the 30th may suit this sector very well. If the region can concentrate on expanding transportation oriented housing near light rail on 320th, new residents looking for condos, local retail, and entertainment in our 320th economic center, may have great options for long term residency. The secondary priority could be the Healthcare industry. This sector is the second largest in the district. South King county residents are aging and will need more health care services. The potential attraction of 30th district residents to enter stable, high-paying jobs in our region will continue to increase as we close the health-sector labor shortage. Lastly, the district has the potential to continue the growth in the construction industry and outperform the national average for employees in an area of this size as investments for infrastructure repair and redevelopment are deployed in this region. The 30th District has incredible talent ready to be tapped in this region.
Do you support the Chamber’s vision of Federal Way as the hub for collaborative economic development in the Central and South Puget Sound region? Why or why not?
Absolutely, I am a firm believer in the Chamber’s vision of Federal Way and will be a strong advocate for collaborative, economic development in our region. This is why I sponsored $700,000 in the state budget to support the work of the Federal Way Chamber. We have a thriving and vibrant population in Federal Way but have also been hit hard by the pandemic and the two years of recovery we have been in. Having a centralized, community-driven way to build economic empowerment is something I greatly believe in, and the residents of the 30th would greatly benefit from it. I am strongly committed to supporting the Chamber, and working with Chamber members who also understand our community and what we need to bolster Federal Way’s economy.
Community Questions
Retail theft and public safety is a major concern in communities across Washington. One of the most common ways thieves sell stolen goods is online. Do you support or oppose legislation requiring high-volume third-party internet platforms to disclose basic information to provide transparency to both consumers and law enforcement such as is contained in the INFORM Act (HB 1614)? Why or Why not?
Yes, public safety issues have harmed many members of our community and advancing bills addressing crime prevention is one of my top priorities. I will support legislation that requires this disclosure, so long as it is not disclosing private information. While I strongly believe in data transparency, I also believe in the right for each Washingtonian to feel safe, and thus ensuring that addresses, social security numbers, etc. remain solely in the hands of them as the consumer.
Homelessness continues to be a national and state-wide issue impacting businesses and their communities. Who do you believe should be addressing the issue of homelessness and how?
I believe solving homelessness will need a joint effort between the legislature and communities who understand their neighborhoods and are feeling the weight of the unhoused crisis. I am a strong advocate that we must expand options for affordable housing. In addition to serving as the Vice Chair of the Housing, Human Services and Veterans Committee within the State Legislature, my prior work as a nonprofit director, a small business owner, landlord, and the manager of a complex household budget have uniquely prepared me with the tools to address the housing and homelessness crisis facing Washington. I understand the pressures families in our community are under, and the need to maximize resources and deliver services efficiently. In Olympia I am fighting to ensure every family -- regardless of employment status and income -- can keep a roof over their head and access critical services. The root causes of homelessness are complex and often interconnected. From lagging wages, domestic violence, substance use, mental illness to the lack of market rate housing, the response to housing shortage in our region requires thoughtful policy-making. In the legislature, I supported targeted housing-related resources for landlords, tenants, first-time home buyers, seniors and those with developmental disabilities.
Political Engagement
What elected offices have you held and how has that experience prepared you for the Legislature?
I was elected 30th State Representative in 2020. In my first term I have become vice chair of the Housing, Human Services & Veterans Committee and chair of the Legislative Black Caucus. My interests as a legislator are informed by the values of education and public instilled in me by my family, and I am honored to seek re-election in the 30th district. You can review my legislative accomplishments via https://www.electjamilataylor.com/first-term/. Serving the community through leadership has always been at the core of my work ethic. I began my commitment to community involvement as a Girl Scout. From my first board directorship in 1994 for the American Red Cross of Lane County, Oregon to my work on the Federal Way Human Service Commission concluding in 2020, I have served in countless formal and informal leadership positions. Each experience introduced me to a new area of work in policy and community organizing work and taught me what life would be like if we had an informed politician, who understands all the organizations that support one's community, run for office. This served as my pillar to continue advocacy as a legislator to Olympia.
How does your campaign engage with the community (i.e., local office, door-to-door, Town Hall meetings, phone calls, emails), and how has the pandemic impacted your engagement? Do you plan to continue the same involvement if elected?
While the pandemic had greatly shifted the way I could directly communicate with constituents, I was proud to hold virtual town halls alongside other leaders of the 30th district, to directly hear what was impacting our community and the thoughts constituents wanted to share. As of recently, I’ve been able to attend community events, such as the student-led Inaugural Federal Way Block Party, Farmer’s Market, the Fourth of July Red, White & Blues Festival. I plan to expand the number of events I attend. The Visit Federal Way website (https://visitfw.org/) has been very helpful for finding more events. These community events have been my favorite part of the campaign and getting to see the people of Federal Way face to face, and build connections and partnerships that I plan to carry into office again after my re-election. My campaign also canvasses door-to-door, hosts phone banks and connects with community via social media. As long as it is safe to do so, I plan to continue the same involvement I currently have, as it is the best way for me to be the voice of my community.
Does your campaign use local District 30 businesses in the production of marketing collateral? Why or why not?
Yes! I am proud to have collaborated and marketed my campaign in the 30th district--I have marketed my campaign in the Federal Way Mirror and other local news outlets. My printing has been done in Seattle at union-led printing organizations. In addition to the marketing collateral, I support many Federal Way small businesses with my events, meetings, and fundraisers. The campaign has sponsored events hosted at the Federal Way Performing Arts Center that had hundreds of attendees.
Campaign Activity and Finance
What are your primary sources of funding? Please note the top five (5) business contributors within District 30 and the top five (5) business contributors outside of District 30. Please also note the top five (5) individuals within District 30 and the top five (5) individuals outside of District 30.
I am honored to have received over 65 maximum contributions to my campaign from individuals and organizations that share my values. A full list of my contributions can be found on the PDC: https://www.pdc.wa.gov/political-disclosure-reporting-data/browse-search-data/candidates/93356/contributions
Top 5 in district (businesses)
Davita
Top 5 out of district (businesses)
Northwest Credit Union Association
Gilead Sciences
Seattle / King County Building Trades Association
DAA Northwest
Washington Beverage Association
Top 5 in district (individuals)
Quintard Taylor
Carolyn Taylor
Cynthia Ricks-Maccottan
Saudia Abdullah
Madelyn Grayson
Top 5 out of district (individuals)
Ellen Ferguson
Michelle Dotson
Tali Rausch
Brian Jacobson
Jacqueline Howard
Please share your major endorsements from the South Sound region (This scope should include the surrounding South King area in addition to Federal Way itself).
For full list, go to: https://www.electjamilataylor.com/endorsements2020/
Newspapers: Seattle Times, Seattle Medium and The Stranger
Organizations:
30th District Democrats
Alliance for Gun Responsibility
American Federation of Teachers Washington, AFL-CIO
ARNPs United of Washington State
Asian Pacific Islander Americans for Civic Empowerment
ATU 587
Children’s Campaign Fund
Democrats for Diversity and Inclusion
Filipino-American Political Action Group of Washington
Grandmothers Against Gun Violence Gun Sense Candidate Recognition
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 751
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers
International Longshore and Warehouse Union
International Union of Operating Engineers Local 612
Iron Workers Local Union 86
King County Democrats
LiUNA Local 242
Metropolitan Democratic Club of Seattle
National Association of Social Workers
National Women’s Political Caucus of Washington
Office and Professional Employees International Union 8
OneAmerica Votes
Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates
Pro Choice WA
Puget Sound Pilots
Retired Public Employees Council of Washington
Seattle/King County Building & Construction Trades Council
Sierra Club
SEIU 775, 925 and 1199NW
South King County Professional Firefighters Local 2024
Teamsters Joint Council 28
Transportation for Washington
UFCW 3000
Washington Bikes
Washington Conservation of Voters
Washington Education Association
Washington Federation of State Employees – AFSCME
Washington Housing Alliance Action Fund
Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO
Washington State Nurses Association PAC
Washington State Building & Construction Trades Council
Endorsements and support earned from: councilmembers of Auburn, Black Diamond, Des Moines, Kent, King County, Renton, Redmond, and Tukwila; several South King County State Legislators and Port Commissioners, Congressman Adam Smith; and State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti, among other community leaders.
Have you contracted with a firm or individual to manage your campaign? If so, please provide the name and address of the firm/ individual.
Northwest Passage Consulting (NWP)
Erin Schultz
erin@nwpconsulting.com
Name: Casey Jones
Education: Masters
Current mailing address: 1911 SW Campus Dr #468, Federal Way, WA 98023
Telephone: 253-349-1150
Email: friendsofcaseyjones@comcast.net
Website: www.friendsofcaseyjones.com
Business and Economic Issues
A talent pipeline is a critical component to a resilient business community. Washington State is experiencing significant workforce issues in the post-COVID economic climate. How will you address the need of Washington State, and particularly Federal Way, businesses for a skilled and trained workforce?
I would establish or support legislation that expands partnerships between high schools, colleges, universities, and the business community. Students need more opportunities for job training in the fields in which they are interested. These partnerships should include programs in which students can receive instruction and training that allows them to gain workplace experiences. Students should also be able to receive certificates or license that would allow them to immediately enter the workforce upon completion or graduation. Businesses in our community can also partner with schools for placement, internships, and specific training to meet certain job requirements. The Puget Sound Skills Center should be expanded to accommodate the growth or needs of certain job positions. They cannot currently handle the capacity to support the amount of interest in attending classes. I would allocate more funding to advance academics, workforce training, and to remove certain barriers or speed bumps that prevent people from using the programs. The barriers can include English proficiency, child care, and other family obligations. The focus should be on jobs and skills that are forecasted to be needed in the soon-to-arrive future.
The Chamber’s 2022 Sector Data report noted the economic impact of six Department of Commerce focus industries for job growth. Which of those six do you think should be the focus of strategic business attraction for Greater Federal Way? Please explain why.
We are fortunate to have major aerospace industry in our area but I don't believe aerospace should be the main focus. I see additional important focus points in the areas of communication/IT and healthcare. Both of these are on the "STRONG AND ADVANCING" sides of the growth forecast. As we incorporate more and more IT into our lives, there is more and more need to advance IT development on several IT/communications fronts such as hardware, software, support, networking, and cloud data. For healthcare, there is a shortage of healthcare workers. People are living longer, the baby boomers are aging, and positions at all levels of healthcare are going unfilled.
Do you support the Chamber’s vision of Federal Way as the hub for collaborative economic development in the Central and South Puget Sound region? Why or why not?
Yes I support this endeavor. With advances in transportation like light rail, our workforce is even more regionalized that it was previously. Federal Way is centrally located and can be conduit through which other regions can collaborate.
Community Questions
Retail theft and public safety is a major concern in communities across Washington. One of the most common ways thieves sell stolen goods is online. Do you support or oppose legislation requiring high-volume third-party internet platforms to disclose basic information to provide transparency to both consumers and law enforcement such as is contained in the INFORM Act (HB 1614)? Why or Why not?
Organized retail theft should be confronted at several levels. Police departments need to work with retailers to curb theft and to have accountability for those who steal. The police department should also take their investigations further and look past the theft portions of the crimes. They should look at where the thieves take the stolen products. Many thieves are drug-impacted and have other issues through which criminal enterprises can take advantage of them. In addition to the thieves themselves, law enforcement should focus on the trafficking of the stolen goods and seek accountability for those who profit from the stolen goods and from vulnerable people. I would support legislation like HB1614 but I also want to make sure that the legislation would not put an undue burden on stores and sellers.
Homelessness continues to be a national and state-wide issue impacting businesses and their communities. Who do you believe should be addressing the issue of homelessness and how?
Homelessness should be addressed through coordination with different groups. Service groups need to focus on wrap-around services for the homeless who truly are "down on their luck". Mental health professionals must focus on the the portion of homelessness that is caused by debilitating mental disease. Law enforcement, the judicial system, and drug-treatment centers should focus on those people who are homeless because of drug abuse. When our legislature failed to properly address the Washington State Supreme Court's decision in the Blake matter, our communities began to suffer even more. I would establish legislation to make hard drugs like methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl felonies again. I would add drug-treatment as mandatory to all convictions. This is not currently happening because of the legalization of hard drugs. Our communities are suffering and people are dying because current legislation restrictions do not allow law enforcement to actually enforce the current drug laws.
Political Engagement
What elected offices have you held and how has that experience prepared you for the Legislature?
I am new to politics and have never held an elected position. I became interested in politics when I was young I was a page for the House of Representatives and for the Senate and I later earned a bachelor's degree in political science. I have been a law enforcement officer for 28 years and began my campaign with the intent to reform the recent legislative changes that prohibited officers from doing their jobs.
How does your campaign engage with the community (i.e., local office, door-to-door, Town Hall meetings, phone calls, emails), and how has the pandemic impacted your engagement? Do you plan to continue the same involvement if elected?
We have an office in Federal Way and I have been going door-to-door in the communities that make-up the 30th Legislative District. I routinely take phone calls from people who have questions. The pandemic has impacted my engagement in that I carry a mask when meeting people in-person and I use social distancing to minimize exposure. I will continue to engage with the community after I am elected.
Does your campaign use local District 30 businesses in the production of marketing collateral? Why or why not?
For printed materials, I engage with a Thomas Jefferson High School graduate who has multiple store locations in the region. For public meeting locations, my team uses local businesses and restaurants. I schedule lobbyist meetings at local restaurants and coffee shops. Our office is in Federal Way and we use materials bought in Federal Way.
Campaign Activity and Finance
What are your primary sources of funding? Please note the top five (5) business contributors within District 30 and the top five (5) business contributors outside of District 30. Please also note the top five (5) individuals within District 30 and the top five (5) individuals outside of District 30.
I have received funds from Washington Business Properties Association, Kemper Holdings, Washington Food Industry Association, Georgia-Pacific, Associated Builders and Contractors or Washington, Northwest Dairymen's, Brian Heywood, and Alyssa Petrie from outside of the district. Carolyn Hoover, Craig and Anna Patrick, Bob and Susan Strong, Larry Huisinga, Steve and Pat Gentry, and Jim Ross are some of the many supporters from within the district.
Please share your major endorsements from the South Sound region (This scope should include the surrounding South King area in addition to Federal Way itself).
Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs, Federal Way Police Officers Guild, Federal Way Police Lieutenants Association, King County Police Officers Guild, Puget Sound Police Mangers Association, Des Moines Police Guild, Stand Up Federal Way
Have you contracted with a firm or individual to manage your campaign? If so, please provide the name and address of the firm/ individual.
I have hired Leo Cantillo as my manager. His phone number is 201-359-7518. 1911 SW Campus Drive #468, Federal Way, WA 98023
Position 2: House of Representatives
Name: Kristine Reeves
Education: Diploma: Moses Lake High School, BA: Washington State University, MA: Gonzaga University
Current mailing address: PO Box 26332, Federal Way, WA 98093
Telephone: 360-359-1910
Email: electkristinereeves@gmail.com
Website: kristinereeves.com
Business and Economic Issues
A talent pipeline is a critical component to a resilient business community. Washington State is experiencing significant workforce issues in the post-COVID economic climate. How will you address the need of Washington State, and particularly Federal Way, businesses for a skilled and trained workforce?
In building a workforce pipeline that meets the needs of our community, we must look first to our schools and partner to provide educational opportunities that meet the needs of our students and our educators, programs such as apprenticeships and skilled trades. We must also build upon the work we have done to advance STEM education with an eye on growing the tech workforce Washington is so well known for with partners like Microsoft and Amazon. I am particularly interested in building a clean tech and advanced manufacturing hub in partnership with the Weyerhauser campus and IRG as a path to creating career pathways into the environmental sciences and natural resources space, growing our clean tech workforce to be thinking about the technologies of the future that will help protect the planet and combat climate change, and will give Federal Way and South King County a business recruitment, retention, and expansion brand that can help us grow our workforce needs with innovation in mind.
The Chamber’s 2022 Sector Data report noted the economic impact of six Department of Commerce focus industries for job growth. Which of those six do you think should be the focus of strategic business attraction for Greater Federal Way? Please explain why.
Recognizing that life sciences makes the most sense given our large healthcare workforce, I will continue to support efforts to maintain and grow this sector. However, I am particularly interested in growing our clean tech and advanced manufacturing workforce to meet the needs of the future and see this as a path to economic opportunity nestled between the Port of Seattle and the Port of Tacoma, sitting in the shadow of some of the largest global tech firms in the world, and surrounded by the beauty of our region, we can become a suburban anchor for this growth potential. In a post-pandemic world, the need for more US manufacturing has become evident with disrupted supply chains and increased demand in the market. While not listed on the report, providing logistics and transportation solutions also seems an important role for our communities to play a part in supporting. Finally, I'd welcome the opportunity for South King County to build out a tourism portfolio as we prepare to be the terminus of the Sound Transit light rail for the next 5-7 years.
Do you support the Chamber’s vision of Federal Way as the hub for collaborative economic development in the Central and South Puget Sound region? Why or why not?
Yes. As the largest city in the South Sound, and often left behind by the regional economic development organizations, creating a South Sound hub for our community that recognizes we are not Seattle nor Tacoma, and is focused on meeting the needs of our communities first will help us drive a more equitable and inclusive economic development strategy.
Community Questions
Retail theft and public safety is a major concern in communities across Washington. One of the most common ways thieves sell stolen goods is online. Do you support or oppose legislation requiring high-volume third-party internet platforms to disclose basic information to provide transparency to both consumers and law enforcement such as is contained in the INFORM Act (HB 1614)? Why or Why not?
Yes. As someone who has stood in several stores in our community, at different times, and watched people steal knowing full well that the staff and the law enforcement community are hindered by what they can do to prevent it, we must find other avenues to cut off illegal activities that hurt our small businesses. Transparency and accountability are key elements of ensuring a legal marketplace in our state that doesn't advantage criminals over business owners.
Homelessness continues to be a national and state-wide issue impacting businesses and their communities. Who do you believe should be addressing the issue of homelessness and how?
As someone who has successfully brough millions of dollars to our community to address homelessness, only to watch our city council put housing development bans out, watched them use the resources we brought to provide homeless shelter support to put people on busses and send them somewhere else, I have come to realize that our city council has the primary responsibility for helping address this challenge. They are who permits housing developments, homeless shelters, and oversees law enforcement in their execution of how we interact with homeless folks. As someone who has personally experienced homelessness in my teens due to my mother's drug addiction, I have seen firsthand how people, particularly families, and children can fall into homelessness due to no fault of their own, yet I am watching a community criminalize the outcome of a housing market and an economy that isn't working for everyone.
We need a city council willing to partner with the state in addressing this challenge, willing to recognize these are our neighbors and the way we treat them says more about us than it does about them. I am committed to partnering with the city council to solve this challenge in our community but we must do it with empathy and compassion and consider the ecosystem causing the problem, not just the outcome.
Political Engagement
What elected offices have you held and how has that experience prepared you for the Legislature?
I have served as the State Representative for this district from 2017-2019. I currently serve as a Washington State Gambling Commissioner, and have held elected offices within board memberships I have held. These roles have all taught me the power of keeping an open door, and open mind, and a willingness to recognize that there is power in multiple perspectives, not just my own. I believe in seeking understanding and working to build solutions that solve people's problems, but that in solving those problems we think critically about the systems we are building and the impact those systems have on working families.
How does your campaign engage with the community (i.e., local office, door-to-door, Town Hall meetings, phone calls, emails), and how has the pandemic impacted your engagement? Do you plan to continue the same involvement if elected?
I strongly believe that you cannot represent a community you are not actively engaged with. It is important to me and to my campaign that we are talking to our neighbors about what matters most to them and their families and that we are working to center them in the public policy work and problem-solving we are doing. Our campaign hosts monthly "Coffee with Kristine" events where we have open "office hours" to talk about whatever folks want to discuss. We also do door-to-door contacts, host forums with experts in specific topic areas such as education or economics. We do one-on-one coffees with constituents to discuss their concerns, and meet with local community leaders and elected officials to learn more about what they are hearing from their neighbors. We do "Small Business Saturdays" where we will visit local businesses to try new things and learn more about how our community is growing then highlight their business across our social media platforms. I have an open door, and open mind, and a willingness to connect with anyone regarding their shared focus on making Federal Way and South King County a better community for us all.
Does your campaign use local District 30 businesses in the production of marketing collateral? Why or why not?
Yes. We work to provide locally sourced material in support of our local businesses.
Campaign Activity and Finance
What are your primary sources of funding? Please note the top five (5) business contributors within District 30 and the top five (5) business contributors outside of District 30. Please also note the top five (5) individuals within District 30 and the top five (5) individuals outside of District 30.
Top 5 Business in LD30:
+ MES Solutions
+ Laborers Local 242
+ Public School Employees PAC
+ Washington Education Association PAC
+ Homestreet Bank
Top 5 Business out LD30:
+ Regence
+ Puyallup Tribe Of Indians
+ Weidner Property Management
+ Boeing Employees Credit Union
+ Green Diamond Resource PAC
Top 5 Individual in LD30:
+ Paula Sardinas, President Big Brothers Big Sisters South Sound
+ Renae Seam, Meta
+ Robert Armstrong, Retired
+ Steve & Ann Mayer, Educators
+ Susan White, Retired
+ Gene Achziger
Top 5 Individual out LD30:
+ Bill Stauffacher, Steilacoom
+ Brian Bonlender, Seattle
+Jeff Bjornstad, Arizona
Please share your major endorsements from the South Sound region (This scope should include the surrounding South King area in addition to Federal Way itself).
Mayor Ferrell, School Board Director Phillips, Mayor Backus, Former Councilmember Martin Moore, Renae Seam, Former State Representative Mike Pellicciotti, County Assessor Wilson, Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz, County Executive Dow Constantine, Washington State Labor Council, Federal Way Education Association.
Have you contracted with a firm or individual to manage your campaign? If so, please provide the name and address of the firm/ individual.
My Campaign Manager is Federal Way native, Bryan Yambe. My campaign consultant is SeaTac based WinPower Strategies led by John Wyble.
Name: Ashli Tagoai
Education: BA, Boston University; JD, Seattle University School of Law
Current mailing address: PO Box 1292, Milton, WA 98354
Telephone: 253-217-1462
Email: ashli@ashli4wa.com
Website: https://www.ashli4wa.com/
Business and Economic Issues
A talent pipeline is a critical component to a resilient business community. Washington State is experiencing significant workforce issues in the post-COVID economic climate. How will you address the need of Washington State, and particularly Federal Way, businesses for a skilled and trained workforce?
Preparing a skilled and trained workforce begins in K-12 schools and continues in post-high school education whether that be in a trade program or higher education. Currently, Federal Way public schools have 84% of students failing math and 70% of students failing English. As a legislator, I will work to ensure that the achievement rates in public schools improve because we cannot expect to have a skilled workforce when 18-year-old students are leaving high school with extremely low literacy and a lack of basic math skills.
The Chamber’s 2022 Sector Data report noted the economic impact of six Department of Commerce focus industries for job growth. Which of those six do you think should be the focus of strategic business attraction for Greater Federal Way? Please explain why.
I believe the focus should be growing jobs in the retail and hospitality industry. The 2021 data shows that Federal Way had 687 jobs in this area compared to 6,281 in Seattle and 1,072 in Tacoma. When you're down on 320th, it is clear that the City's economy relies on this industry. The earnings for jobs in this industry are higher than in Seattle and Tacoma, so pay and wages are not the issue. Many large retail and hospitality companies have left Federal Way in recent years, and I believe that is largely due to anti-business regulations, and increased crime.
Do you support the Chamber’s vision of Federal Way as the hub for collaborative economic development in the Central and South Puget Sound region? Why or why not?
Yes, I support the Chamber's vision of Federal Way as the hub for collaborative economic development because it is the primary commuter city between Seattle and Tacoma along the I-5 corridor.
Community Questions
Retail theft and public safety is a major concern in communities across Washington. One of the most common ways thieves sell stolen goods is online. Do you support or oppose legislation requiring high-volume third-party internet platforms to disclose basic information to provide transparency to both consumers and law enforcement such as is contained in the INFORM Act (HB 1614)? Why or Why not?
Yes, I support legislation that requires high-volume third-party internet platforms to disclose basic information as is contained in the INFORM Act. If a third-party seller has a legitimate business selling goods on platforms like Ebay, Amazon, Poshmark, etc., then the seller should have no issue disclosing information to the platform, and I believe most third-party sellers would understand how requiring sellers to disclose this information will help legitimize the business of third-party resale. This requirement should act as a deterrent for thieves, and I believe it is a good policy.
Homelessness continues to be a national and state-wide issue impacting businesses and their communities. Who do you believe should be addressing the issue of homelessness and how?
I believe many of those in the homeless community struggle with mental health and/or addiction. First, it is the job of the legislature to prioritize mental health services, and drugs and alcohol rehabilitation in the state budget. State legislators must work with the local elected officials in-District to determine: 1) where to create rehabilitation centers for mental health and addiction; 2) who will staff the centers; and 3) how people will be supported after they leave the rehab centers. The plan must be well-executed because we cannot continue on a path of throwing money at the homeless crisis and expecting it to end.
Political Engagement
What elected offices have you held and how has that experience prepared you for the Legislature?
I am a first-time candidate for political office. But, a lack of legislative experience does not equal a lack of success. I have negotiation skills as an attorney, and I know how to work collaboratively to reach a common goal. Also, as an attorney I understand how to draft legislation so that it will achieve the result you want it to. So often bills are drafted poorly, and the legislator does not understand the unintended consequence of doing so. I will bring a fresh perspective to the legislature to work on issues that our state has faced for many years, but that incumbent legislators have been unable to solve.
How does your campaign engage with the community (i.e., local office, door-to-door, Town Hall meetings, phone calls, emails), and how has the pandemic impacted your engagement? Do you plan to continue the same involvement if elected?
I have been knocking on constituent doors personally at least five days per week. I believe that as a first-time candidate, direct voter contact is extremely important. The pandemic has not affected my ability to knock on doors this election cycle, and I plan to continue meeting voters one-on-one if elected.
Does your campaign use local District 30 businesses in the production of marketing collateral? Why or why not?
No, I have not used local 30th District businesses for production of marketing collateral because my campaign consultant works with larger print shops to keep the cost per piece down as much as possible. As it stands, I will have ordered 25K pieces of doorbell literature by the general election. Since my campaign has relied on individual contributions, it is important to keep costs down so that the money can stretch further, and my message can get out to more voters.
Campaign Activity and Finance
What are your primary sources of funding? Please note the top five (5) business contributors within District 30 and the top five (5) business contributors outside of District 30. Please also note the top five (5) individuals within District 30 and the top five (5) individuals outside of District 30.
Business In-District: None
Business Outside: 1) Rental Housing Assoc. WA; 2) Concerned Taxpayers of WA; 3) WA Collectors Assoc.; 4) Manufactured Housing Communities of WA; 5) WA Business Properties Assoc.
Individuals In-District: 1) Terrence Thomas 2) Melissa Canfield; 3) Erin Martin; 4) Kimberli and Elia Tagoai; 5) Dusti Pigg.
Individuals Outside: 1) Brian Heywood; 2) George Petrie; 3) Alyssa Petrie; 4) Steve Gordon; 5) John Goodman.
Please share your major endorsements from the South Sound region (This scope should include the surrounding South King area in addition to Federal Way itself).
Stand Up Federal Way, National Federation of Independent Business Washington, Concerned Taxpayers of WA
Have you contracted with a firm or individual to manage your campaign? If so, please provide the name and address of the firm/ individual.
Majority Strategies, 12854 Kenan Dr #145, Jacksonville, FL 32258
