The Federal Way Mirror bugged prominent city and community officials for their 2017 New Year’s resolutions. Some were personal (lose weight), while others looked toward making Federal Way a better place. All are a reminder that a new year is the opportunity for a fresh start.

Mayor Jim Ferrell

“1. Bring new businesses to Federal Way that will create jobs for our residents; 2. Ensure that Federal Way is a safe city; 3. See the successful grand opening of our Performing Arts and Events Center (is it too much to ask that Paul McCartney is our opening act??); 4. Lose a few pounds…; 5. Get two consecutive positive columns by Bob Roegner!; and 6. Finally meet Mr. Federal Way!”

Councilwoman Susan Honda

“I do not usually do New Year’s resolutions, so this has been a bit difficult, but I do have one: This year, besides exercising more, eating less and solving as many issues in Federal Way as possible, I will try to visit one new business each week.”

Councilman Mark Koppang

“I made a resolution years ago not to wait until the new year to make a resolution that can serve me now. However, in the spirit of [this] article here are some light-hearted resolutions I can pass on (to the Mirror): 1. Say “That’s the way I roll” in at least one council report; 2. Not buy anything advertised on a late-night infomercial unless I can’t live without it! 3. Fill up my gas tank before the low-fuel warning light comes on.”

Councilwoman Dini Duclos

“I have decided to cut down on my dark-chocolate eating. So the 2-pound box my nephew sent me for Christmas should last until June. (Fat chance of that!).”

Councilman Martin Moore

“My new year resolutions are to work towards the following: Empower and work with the public to achieve greater financial transparency; work with the Violence Prevention Coalition to address the root causes of crime; collaborate with like-minded organizations to combat drug-related violence; continue to advocate for the most vulnerable in our community through building a stronger economy for Federal Way; get back to working out; be a good husband to my beautiful wife, Sarah; and laugh more. In closing, 2016 challenged us in many ways, and, in response, our community has grown closer together. In 2017, we’ll take action to find solutions.”

Councilwoman Lydia Assefa-Dawson

“In 2017, I want to continue doing what I’m doing, but with more intention, diligence, compassion and inclusion. I want to reach more people and get to hear their stories, concerns and what we can do collectively for a better Federal Way. More importantly, I want to spend more time visiting friends and family over coffee, travel, read, and the highlight of it all will be to celebrate my two sons graduations in May. So, if you are up for coffee (or tea), please contact me. I’ll be glad to meet you.”

Police Chief Andy Hwang

“With renewing of my annual membership at the Federal Way Community Center, my goal is to “stay fit and healthy” and improve my physical well-being by exercising more often and eating healthy food. Secondly, seek opportunities to meet new interesting people in the community by networking.

This will allow me to have fun and, at the same time, gain some new knowledge from interesting people, and (spend) less time staying hunched over the computer. Lastly, learn to be more patient and learn to find joy in the little things and not allow challenges or problems to bring me down.”

Superintendent Tammy Campbell

“If I were to make a resolution for 2017-18, it would be to exercise more, read more, laugh more and be the best me I can be. ”

School board member Claire Wilson

“My resolution for 2017 is to remain steadfast in my commitment and resolve towards social justice and educational racial equity for the community of Federal Way and beyond. Tall order? Yes! Worth it? Most definitely!”

School board member Hiroshi Eto

“My resolution will be to write more letters to the Mirror than last year.”

Todd Beamer High School Athletic Director Tim Kuykendall

“My New Year’s resolution is to finish a book I am writing.”

Fire Chief Al Church

“Happy almost-New Year. My resolution is more organizational in nature:

‘We will meet the ever-changing and expanding needs of our community’s emergency services, with a focus on being community oriented and responsive.

We have a number of retirements occurring in 2017 and 2018, with a younger cadre of firefighters and leaders ascending throughout our fire department.

We resolve to maintain and enhance our services, with the focus on our community being our prime motivating factor.”

Rep.-elect Mike Pellicciotti

“I resolve to watching my Gonzaga Bulldogs finally play in a Final Four this year!”

Happy New Year from the Mirror!