Skip Priest and Jim Ferrell are the finalists to run for mayor in the November general election. Linda Kochmar and Mike Park conceded most graciously in the editorial pages Aug. 21. Obviously, we will need their assistance with the new mayor. It will be difficult to pick the best candidate for the mayor’s job. Skip and Jim bring vast knowledge and experience in order to develop the resources necessary to run this city.

Skip and Jim will run the city without the extra $100,000-plus expense of another city manager. The other candidates needed a city manager. I think they can also make the tough decisions to balance the budget.

As for the 45-story condo towers moving forward: The value of this project is totally flawed for our city at this time. I really hope the current city council does not push on with this project. Further, my understanding is, it is to be financed primarily by off-shore dollars.

Previously the city was unable to find a major developer to build this high-rise 45-story project. Subsequently the city applied and received a special federal grant for financing the project. They wanted to move forward without a thorough understanding of the project infrastructure to make it successful. The caveat for the project includes a “green card” for persons living in another country to enter the USA with an investment $500,000. The money is designated to finance the towers.

Finally, we need new industry and jobs and further development of our core business, including community shared necessities. I will be focused attentively to see how Skip and Jim play out each of their visions in the next couple of months, prior to my final vote.

Neil Corbin, Federal Way