Educator and youth advocate Jesse Johnson announced Wednesday his campaign for Federal Way City Council. Johnson intends to challenge incumbent Bob Celski for Position 2.

“Our city has seen unprecedented change and growth in the last several years,” Johnson said in a press release. “It’s time that we had a robust conversation about the future of Federal Way, and I believe we need new voices at the table to lead our city through the challenges we face now and the opportunities that lay ahead.”

A Federal Way resident for more than 20 years, Johnson has seen the impacts that growth, economic booms and busts, and safety concerns have had on the community.

According to his release, Johnson’s priorities include balancing growth, density and strong community values; building safe, family friendly communities; and developing a local economy that retains local graduates, attracts new employers and bolsters small business. Additionally, he looks to promote strong housing and transportation options and provide access to high-quality education and support, partnering with school districts and state legislators to deliver results for students.

Johnson is currently a family and community engagement specialist in South King County, developing programs to increase awareness around post-secondary options and build families’ capacity to navigate the school system.

He has served as an educator and mentor at public schools in the region, worked to increase diversity with his alma mater, the University of Washington, and earned his master’s in education with a certification in program administration.

Johnson has also worked for Congressman Adam Smith and former state Sen. Tracey Eide.