The Mirror’s July 3 edition asks a question of all the mayor candidates: “What steps are needed to stimulate the city’s economy?” It was interesting reading, but unfortunately, I was unable to determine a direct answer or even a remote answer on what this city needs from the comments noted. The answers by all candidates appeared to be: “Same old stuff – different day!”
Are the candidates holding back or do we actually have a candidate that can step up to the plate and think “outside the box?” It seems to me, we need a visionary mayor with the resources to lead a team and get things accomplished.
The city needs to resolve a projected estimated deficit of $4.5 million in 2011-12. This city can no longer support more companies/stores leaving town, higher crime rates and the lack of serious cultural needs. We must utilize forward thinking to assure that our city is a pleasant and safe community to work and play. The mayor needs to, importantly, focus on innovative options to promote the economic development needed to get out of this crisis. To get there rapidly, the mayor must quickly develop a “steering committee” to encourage Fortune 500 type companies with deep pockets and large significant numbers of employees to settle in our city.
It is no secret that other smaller cities and states across our nation have developed the skills necessary to bring in major companies for expansion plans and relocation to their communities. We need a strong tenacious mayor with the knowledge, skills and political ability to get the job done here! There must be things like strong city/state stimulus packages to encourage large corporations to settle here. Creative ideas like tax breaks, special financing, providing land and new construction help are necessary to create long and successful business relationships. The best part will follow with a rush of small business, new construction, hotels, restaurants and stores to support the new infrastructure.
I would think someone with the background and political experience like Skip Priest could possibility solve the economic shortfall. On the other hand, I also think about Jim Ferrell. Jim appears to have the determination of a pit-bull and might be the right one for the mayor’s job.
Neil Corbin, Federal Way
