Who’s running? Kent City Council candidates look to survive primary election

Ten Kent City Council candidates are vying on the Aug. 6 primary ballot to be among the six who advance to the Nov. 5 general election.

The two candidates in each of the three council races with the most votes will advance. Here is a look at the candidates for each position:

POSITION NO. 1

• Marli Larimer

Statement: “I’m running to retain my seat because we have more work to do on the issues that matter to Kent – public safety, homelessness, affordable housing, workforce development, code enforcement and more.”

Note: Incumbent. Council appointed her in 2018 to replace Tina Budell, who resigned to move to a new job in Chicago.

Funds raised: $7,936.

• Todd Minor

Statement: “I will fight for public safety, parks, fair taxes, responsible community development, job creation and homelessness solutions.”

Note: City Parks and Recreation Commission member.

Funds raised: Plans to raise and spend less than $5,000 (no contributions report required).

• Elizabeth T. Peang

Statement: “In my view, the lack of affordable housing and the rising crime rate are barriers for the success of the community. My priority will be to lead the council towards business strategies which provide long-term sustainable funding solutions.”

Note: Ran for City Council in 2017 but failed to advance out of the primary for a seat won by Satwinder Kaur.

Funds raised: No contributions reported.

POSITION NO. 3

• Hira Singh Bhullar

Statement: “Kent needs to have good transportation infrastructure, be environmentally concerned and continue efforts to reduce homelessness. Good fiscal management is a must, while continuing to invest in effective youth programs. Public safety is a high priority and using new technologies can improve services.”

Note: One of eight finalists to fill Budell’s vacant council seat in 2018. Lost a 2015 council race against Budell.

Funds raised: $29,851.

• Sara Franklin

Statement: “It is important that we invest in public safety, protect our open spaces and serve vulnerable populations in our community. But we must do it while balancing our budget and without major tax increases that will hurt our residents.”

Note: One of eight finalists to fill Budell’s vacant council seat in 2018.

Funds raised: $5,550.

• Les Thomas

Statement: “Challenges facing our council include traffic congestion; homelessness; and budget constraints while lessening the tax burden for all citizens.”

Note: Incumbent in 16th year, seeking fifth four-year term.

Funds raised: No reports filed.

POSITION NO. 7

• Awale A. Farah

Statement: “I will prioritize economic development, transportation, public safety and affordable housing.”

Note: Endorsed by Dennis Higgins, current Kent City Council member who decided not to run for this seat.

Funds raised: $27,392.

• Barry Fudenski

Statement: “Key issues I want to address: increasing public transportation to Seattle/Tacoma, supporting programs assisting homelessness, elderly, veterans, plus fair and equitable taxing of homeowners and business.”

Note: Served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force.

Funds raised: Plans to raise and spend less than $5,000 (no contributions report required).

• Ron Johnson

Statement: “I will work with the mayor and City Council to keep property taxes low, manage a prioritized budget and promote services that reflect the values of our community.”

Note: Lost a August 2017 City Council primary race for the position won by Toni Troutner.

Funds raised: Plans to raise and spend less than $5,000 (no contributions report required).

• Zandria Michaud

Statement: “The people of Kent deserve clean, beautiful parks and a safe and vibrant community. Crime prevention means not only investing in our police but also in our youth and creating a clear homelessness strategy.”

Note: One of eight finalists to fill Budell’s vacant council seat in 2018. City Parks and Recreation Commission member.

Funds raised: Plans to raise and spend less than $5,000 (no contributions report required).

ALSO: Residents can view video statements from each candidate about why they are running on the city of Kent website at kentwa.gov/city-hall/kent-tv21. …

Incumbent Bill Boyce, in his eighth year on council, will be challenged by Mizan Rahman on the Nov. 5 ballot since they are the only two candidates for that position.

Candidate statements in the article are from the King County Elections website or the candidate’s website. The funds raised amounts are from the state Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) at pdc.wa.gov.

King County Elections will mail ballots this week. Voters can place ballots in 24-hour drop boxes throughout the county (Kentridge High School or Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent) or mail the ballot (no stamp required). Ballots must be put in drop boxes by 8 p.m. election day or postmarked by Aug. 6.