Current Federal Way Council President and former State Representative Linda Kochmar is seeking re-election to the Federal Way City Council, Pos. 7, according to a March 27 announcement.

“As your former State Representative, former Federal Way Mayor, and current Federal Way Council President, I have served you, the citizens of the Federal Way, with integrity and dedication for over two decades,” Kochmar said in a statement.

“Politics has consistently been too divisive. I am running because I am deeply concerned about crime affecting our businesses and neighborhoods, drug addiction fueling our homeless population, and higher taxes burdening our families. We need affordable housing and job creation so we can live and work in our community. We must feel safe where we call home and where our children attend school.”

Kochmar added that “it been a privilege to serve the citizens of the Federal Way all these years, and it would be an honor to continue serving you.”

Some of Kochmar’s awards include Best City Leader elected by the readers of the Federal Way Mirror in 2008 and 2010; NCEA Distinguished Graduate; Soroptimist’s Woman of Distinction; Outstanding Legislator of the Year – State Water Association; and Washington State Woman of Excellence – NFL Women Legislators.

Kochmar is also a nationally certified risk manager.

According to Kochmar’s campaign announcement, she has “a proven track record of listening to the people of this community and acting responsibly on their behalf. She believes that strong leadership is needed in Olympia and that people need trustworthy leaders. And Linda is especially interested in providing an environment where small businesses can thrive because we all benefit when small businesses succeed.”

Kochmar said as a recognized strong leader, she would be honored to continue serving the citizens of the City of Federal Way as your city council member.

Kochmar’s campaign kick-off is from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 20, at Billy McHale’s Restaurant at 1320 South 314th Street in Federal Way.