What will Tacoma ’s Transportation system look like in 20 years? Will our streetscape be dotted with streetcars, bike lanes, and working sidewalking next to walkable mixed-use communities? How will we manage our growth in a way that creates vibrant neighborhoods and urban centers? What transportation infrastructure and policies will be needed to keep our city moving and encourage smart development? What is the role of parking policy in the discussion? How will we pay for the transportation and land-use challenges that lie ahead? How will the city integrate its economic development and climate change goals with its land-use and transportation plan?

On Thursday, October 1st, Please Join Transportation Choices Coalition, The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber and an exciting group of co-hosting organizations for an evening lively debate as we pose these questions of this nature to the Tacoma City Council and Mayoral Candidates.

The forum is open to the public, and transportation related questions for the candidates can be submitted prior to the event to juliap@tacomachamber.org. For general event questions or media inquires contact Andrew Austin at Andrew@transportationchoices.org.

EVENT INFORMATION
When: Thursday, Oct 1st, 6:30-8:30pm
Where: Carwein Auditorium, UWT

Event Co-Hosts: Transportation Choices Coalition, The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, University of Washington Urban Studies Program, Futurewise, Cascade Bicycle Club, Tacoma Wheelman’s Bicycle Club, Tacoma Sun, Cascade Land Conservancy, and Exit 133.

In 2005, Washington State lawmakers responded to a long-time request from county auditors throughout the state – namely, a need for more money to archive documents for historic posterity. The solution came in the form of a new law — RCW 36.22.170 –- which established a filing surcharge for preservation of historical documents. Funds collected from the surcharge are distributed annually to counties.

The fund’s intent was twofold: allow cash-strapped counties more funding to manage documents; and promote historic preservation programs. Whether that has happened in Tacoma and Pierce County is uncertain.

The original house bill stated the money would “be used solely for ongoing preservation of historical documents of all county offices and departments and shall not be added to the county current expense fund.”

Unfortunately, it is difficult to apply strict “one-size-fits-all” guidelines to state laws. Language that could have explicitly directed the historic preservation portion of the funds into a dedicated account was not included. Instead, all funds were deposited into a general account. For over half a year, funds accumulated in a Pierce County account until a Dec. 28, 2005 memo from County Finance Director, Patrick Kenney was issued. In it, Kenney asked department heads for proposals on how to spend the money, adding, “There isn’t much definition as to what constitutes ‘promote historic preservation or historical purposes…’”

In response to Kenney’s request, a list of projects totaling $300,000 was compiled. The projects included:

– Display of historic staff photos and artifacts for the Sheriff’s Department ($10,000);
– Pierce County interactive history Web site” ($39,120);
– New historical photographic images ($60,000)

On April 18, 2006, Pierce County Council, with then-County Executive John W. Ladenburg’s blessing, approved resolution R2006-28, which authorized spending the money.

Fast-forward one year to fall of 2007, when an ad hoc committee formed by council member Tim Farrell met to put together a grant program using the new funds. The group was comprised of representatives from Historic Tacoma, Washington State Archives, Washington State History Museum, Tacoma Public Library, Tacoma Historical Society, Puyallup Library, City of Tacoma, along with Pierce County Historic Preservation Officer Julia Park.

A program was created. In April 2008, three years after the creation of the fund, a request for grant proposals were issued. The program hit a snag, however, when the county’s landmarks commission met behind closed doors to decide which proposals would be funded. The county was concerned the commission may have violated the Open Public Meetings Act. As a result, the commission issued a public notice and made funding recommendations in a public meeting.

Currently, Pierce County runs historic preservation activities using a part-time staff member. Although funding was established in the 2008 budget to add additional part-time staff, the county instead used this money in place of using general fund monies to fund its current staffing level. Furthermore, Pierce County is canceling a grant cycle for 2009, has cancelled funding for increased preservation staff, and directed historic preservation money to be used in the county’s general fund, which may be against state law.

Pierce County elected officials need to restore funding to the historic preservation program as guided by the advisory group and the State of Washington. A funding crisis is no reason to throw commitments to the community out the window. There are many individuals and volunteer organizations in recent years who have made it a priority to make historic preservation happen. Now is not the time for Pierce County officials to leave them high and dry. Historic Preservation contributes to economic development and a community’s sense of well-being. How we treat our past reflects on the value we place on our future.

Following the Money at Pierce County Timeline
July 2005: State lawmakers pass RCW 36.22.170 which sets aside funding for the preservation of historical documents and to promote historic preservation.

December 28, 2005: Finance Director, Patrick Kenney issues request for projects memo.
April 18, 2006: Pierce County adopts resolution spending $300,000 for “Historical Documents Program.”

April 2, 2008: Behind the Times – Never mind the buildings. Can Pierce County restore its historic preservation program? An in-depth story by Todd Matthews on the county’s management of its historic preservation program.

April 2008: Pierce County announces the availability of the Pierce County Historic Preservation Grant Fund 2008 in the amount of $200,000.

July 24 2008: Pierce County Landmarks Commission will revisit preservation grant applications in public forum, The Tacoma Daily Index. Article on a closed door meeting by the landmarks commission to determine grant funding.

Sun: How did you vote (on the term limit resolution) and how did you arrive at your decision?
Lonergan: I voted against placing the extension of City Council term limits on the ballot. I did so because NO citizen came forward asking me to allow them to vote on this matter, and many told me they did not wish to spend tax money to put it on the ballot. While serving on the Appointments Committee, I noted that we had a dozen applicants to write the Voters’ Pamphlet statement against this proposition, and only one person applied to write the “pro” statement.

Sun: What are the advantages/disadvantages you see in repealing term limits?
Lonergan: Although it is possible to unseat an incumbent to win election to the City Council (I did it in 2001), it is difficult. Two terms is the limit for President of the United States, and it’s good enough for me.

Sun: Has your view on repealing term limits changed since passing the resolution?
Lonergan: My views have not changed. The one change in the Charter we should consider is to separate the two terms on the Council (actually 10 years, to allow for those appointed to fill out an unexpired term) from the two terms as Mayor. The Council is a possible place to look for potential Mayor, just as the U.S. Senate is a possible place to look for a President. So one should be able to run for Mayor after serving two terms on the Council.

All on the council were sent questionnaires. Only Mayor Baarsma and Councilman Lonergan responded.

See related story: Mayor Bill Baarsma Shares Thoughts on Term Limits

I voted no. The reason is that major charter changes should go through a formal review process as provided for in the charter. During the review, there are extensive public hearings conducted by a citizens committee. The committee reports back to the council as to its recommendations pro and con. The council can then place measures on the ballot with proper vetting. This measure had no public hearing and will cost taxpayers between $100-130,000 to be placed on the ballot as a special measure for Tacoma only. It has been over 50 years since substantive charter amendments have been placed on the ballot without a formal review process. Is this the way we should be amending our city “constitution” — I think not. Instead, this proposal should have been placed on the ballot in 2004 with the other proposed measures that came from the charter review committee. It could have been debated properly and appropriately. By the way, I was on the 1973 charter review commission that first proposed term limits. I voted against it then and I am not keen on the idea today. But, the proper procedures were not followed, in my view. When they are not, measures of this kind strike the appearance of being self serving. I am voting no for those reasons.

Mike Lonergan, candidate for Pierce County Executive

Editors Note: Below is Mike Lonergan’s responses sent to him from the Tacoma Sun.  All of the candidates were sent questionnaires.  Candidates Goings and Lonergan responded.

1) Jail releases

The media has reported that the Pierce County Jail currently releases nearly all of the people who have been arrested in Pierce county into downtown Tacoma even if they are arrested in Orting or a remote area of the county. Would you support a plan which would transport some or all of the jail releasees to the places where they were arrested or where they live when their sentence ends?

Answer: Yes, and in fact I have discussed this in my capacity as vice chair of Tacoma’s Public Safety & Human Services Committee. A more basic reform is to eliminate the court backlog that is causing the Pierce County Jail to be filled to capacity, without room for newly arrested persons, who are frequently brought in from outlying communities, photographed and fingerprinted, then released into Tacoma. Again, we are working to end this practice, and as County Executive I will see that it is corrected.

2) Growth Management

Question: Over the last 30 years, Pierce County has been know for suburban sprawl which has caused the loss of farmland, pollution, traffic congestion and disinvestment in Tacoma.

If you are elected, how will you address the effects of sprawl and growth management in Pierce County? How would that plan be different, if at all, from what is in place now?

Answer: I serve as chair of the 4-county Growth Management Policy Board. We have recently completed “VISION 2040″ a detailed 100 page plan to steer growth to urban mixed use centers, which are well connected by roads and transit, and which offer ample live/work opportunities. Implementing the plan won’t be easy, but as County Executive I will see that the growth of Pierce County is more orderly and does not create more congestion and costly demand for new infrastructure.

3) Pierce County Felon “Dumping Ground” Issues

Q: As you know, Tacoma and Pierce County have a disproportionate number of released felons placed by the Department of Corrections as described in the Tacoma City Club report: 30 Years of DOC in Pierce County. Was It Worth It?

If elected, what do you plan to do, if anything to reduce the number of felons placed in Tacoma and Pierce County? Do you agree that Tacoma and Pierce County should have no more than their pro-rata share based on population? How can the concentration of felons be reduced to its pro-rata share?

Answer: I have been in the forefront of Fair Share ever since my days as chair of the New Tacoma Neighborhood Council, i will continue to have a strong voice on this subject as Pierce County Executive, insisting that Bellevue and Everett take on work release and other DOC programs before any more come here. I will continue to work closely with Prosecutor Gerry Home and Senator Mike Carroll as I have in the past, to protect our citizens.

4) Elks Temple

Question: A great many Tacomans would like to see the Elks Temple restored. There have been plans discussed to possibly turn part of the building into a transit station.

What is your position on this issue? What plan would you support?

Answer: As vice chair of the Pierce Transit board, I voted in favor of an investigation of this possibility. The developer most interested has elected not to proceed (as has happened with other proposed uses for the Elks building, which offers unique challenges. Pierce Transit is in the midst of an exciting strategic initiative, which has many ideas on the table in addition to this one. I will support the most effective use of resources to provide quality and customer-friendly mass transit connecting all parts of the county—with downtown Tacoma an important hub of course.

5) Rebuilding Tacoma

Despite the progress made, Tacoma still has a large number of vacant lots, and empty and blighted buildings relative to other west coast cities. What role can you and Pierce County take, if you are re-elected, to support the rebuilding of downtown Tacoma and Tacoma’s mixed use centers.

Answer: Of course it is taking years to correct a decline that was decades in the making, but I believe the progress made with my support during seven years on the City Council speaks for itself. For years, Pierce County was part of the problem, doing nothing with its property from 13^th to 15^th on Pacific, which is now the outstanding Rainier Pacific building. I will be a County Executive (moreso than any other candidate) who recognizes the critical importance of continuing progress in downtown Tacoma.

6) Arts and Community

Q: What artistic events in Tacoma do you enjoy and which ones have you attended?

Answer: I am a past president of Tacoma Little Theatre, and always enjoy their plays—as well as those at Tacoma Musical Playhouse, Pantages and Rialto (I am a member of Broadway Center for the Performing Arts). I never miss Ethnic Fest, have enjoyed First Night many times, attend Grand Cinema, and also like such neighborhood events as Art on the Ave and Proctor Art Fest, where I am a volunteer.

7) Restoring Tacoma’s Streetcars

Q: Many Tacomans support restoring Tacoma’s streetcar system. Gas prices are now at record levels. Pierce County plays a large role in transportation systems in Tacoma. Do you support restoring the streetcar network in Tacoma? What steps would be needed to be taken to make this happen?

Answer: This is also on my agenda as vice chair of Pierce Transit I have been instrumental in bringing the City Manager together with the Pierce Transit leadership, because I believe this is the only way to make a streetcar network happen. Our board is looking closely at all possibilities for high-capacity transit on key routes in Tacoma and beyond.

VIII) Pollution Issues in Tacoma

Question: The City of Tacoma is currently failing the pollution criteria set by the State of Washington. What role can Pierce County play to reduce pollution in the city limits of Tacoma?

Answer: The truth is that Tacoma and Pierce County have greatly reduced air pollution in the past decade—coming a long way from the old “Aroma of Tacoma.” The reason for our non-compliance in particulates is because the Federal standard was made more restrictive. Following recommendations of the Green Ribbon Task Force we will continue to take all reasonable steps such as converting vehicle fuels, shore power hookups for ships, reducing train idling and traffic congestion

9) Crime Reduction Proposal by City Manager Eric Anderson

Question: City Manager Eric Anderson has set a goal to reduce crime in Tacoma by 50 percent in 14 months. Given the predominant role Pierce County plays on the criminal justice system, what steps will you support the County government in taking so that the City of Tacoma can succeed?

Answer: Again, I have been instrumental in many crime reduction efforts leading toward this goal as vice chair of the Public Safety & Human Services Committee. My work has included eliminating homeless encampments, limiting panhandling, alcohol impact areas, Community

Based Services, former board member of Safe Streets, youth violence reduction, and improved hiring, training and equipping of Police. Pierce County citizens and deputies have asked me to replicate many of these Tacoma efforts County-wide.and I will. Further, my leadership in ending the jail backlog by working with the Superior Court judges and administrators will make police work more effective throughout the County.

Editors Note: November elections are almost upon us.  Today, the Tacoma Sun posts questions submitted to Tim Farrell as well as his answers.

Questions to Tim Farrell,
Candidate for Pierce County Council District No 4.

1) Jail releases
Question: The media has reported that the Pierce County Jail currently releases nearly all of the people who have been arrested in Pierce County into downtown Tacoma even if they are arrested in Orting or a remote area of the county.  Would you support a plan which would transport some or all of the jail releases to the places where they were arrested or where they live when their sentence ends?

Answer: Yes.  One other thing to mention, as many know, Pierce County uses a “special identification program” (SIP) which allows police departments and county sheriffs to arrest low level offenders, book them into the jail, and release them immediately with a court date.  In the past, we have “sipped” people in the rural parts of the county, brought them to the jail, and released them without a means to return to the places they were arrested at.  A proposal that is coming out of the Criminal Justice Task Force that I co-chair with Councilmember Dick Muri would set up a satellite booking station in Eastern Pierce County which would allow the SIP to occur closer to the offender’s residence, keep our cops on the streets instead of having to travel with the offender to the courthouse and back, and keep the soon to be released criminals out of downtown Tacoma.

2) Growth management

Question: Over the last 30 years, Pierce County has been known for suburban sprawl which has caused the loss of farmland, pollution, traffic congestion and disinvestment in Tacoma.

If you are re-elected, how will you address the effects of sprawl and growth management in Pierce County?  How would that plan be different, if at all, from what is in place now?

Answer: The price of gasoline will be the market driver for the future of unincorporated Pierce County.  The future of our county planning will involve making better use of one of our greatest, overlooked, assets – Pierce Transit.  By the use of incentives for smart growth and bringing in Pierce Transit into the planning process, we can start moving towards better growth patterns in the future, and work to redevelop the errors of the past.

A clear example of this is the proposed new Bus Rapid Transit Line to replace the southern leg of the Pierce Transit #1 line.  By integrating these plans into the Parkland Midland Spanaway Community Plan we can turn blighted 20th Century bad planning into 21st Century Pedestrian / Transit Orientated Development nodes.  It will require us to think out of the box and work collaboratively with the county, neighborhoods, developers, and local banks to make these discussions and dreams into a reality.

3)  Pierce County Felon “Dumping Ground” Issues

Question: As you know, Tacoma and Pierce County have a disproportionate number of released felons placed by the Department of Corrections as described in the Tacoma City Club report: 30 Years of DOC in Pierce County, Was It worth It?

If re-elected, what do you plan to do, if anything to reduce the number of felons placed in Tacoma and Pierce County?  Do you agree that Tacoma and Pierce County should have no more than their pro-rata share based on population?  How can the concentration of felons be reduced to its pro-rata share?

Answer: Keep the pressure on Olympia to make sure that this trend does not continue.  The overlooked aspect of the dumping involves the role of Western State Hospital.  When released from WSH, you can relocate wherever you may please.  In many cases, this means right to the outskirts of the hospital where the patient has made their home for the past few months or even years.  A full study of these impacts should be made by an independent researcher and the results forwarded to the legislature.  The goal for Pierce County being, of course, that we receive additional financial support from the Mental Health Division to care for these people, many of whom will need ongoing support throughout their lives.  At this time, our mental health system is underfunded, leaving counties to bear the burdens in our jails and emergency rooms.

As for the pro-rata share, I believe that Pierce County should take care of its own.  If your first conviction is in Pierce County, then we have the responsibility of caring for your needs – if not, then I don’t think the burden is ours to bear.  I also believe that group homes in our county should only be allowed to take Pierce County residents.  Work release and group homes, properly licensed and managed, can help lower the recidivism rate.  Left unchecked, they can become training grounds for a more experienced criminal.

4) Elks Temple

Question: A great many Tacomans would like to see the Elks Temple restored.  There have been plans discussed to possibly turn part of the building into a transit station.

What is your position on this issue?  What plan would you support?

Answer: I helped put the original idea together and I plan on still advocating for it.  A public-private partnership with Pierce Transit can help restore the building and make a “Grand Central Station” concept for Pierce Transit a reality.  However, financing ANY reconstruction of the Elks Temple will require Federal and State assistance.  If re-elected, I plan on working with state and federal elected leaders to continue to pursue this idea.

5) Rebuilding Tacoma

Question: Despite the progress made, Tacoma still has a large number of vacant lots, and empty and blighted buildings relative to other west coast cities.  What role can you and Pierce County take, if you are re-elected, to support the rebuilding of downtown Tacoma and Tacoma’s mixed use centers.

Answer: If the loss of the streetcar line was the worst mistake Tacoma has made in the last century, the urban renewal preference for parking lots over historic buildings remains a close second.  It is far more expensive to build new rather than redevelop the old.  But, well, it is what it is and we need to not let ourselves be frustrated by past mistakes, but rather to work together for a common vision for the future.  I would like to focus our efforts on the following:

1) Continue to partner with local agencies such as the United Way to provide birth to three early learning interventions.  I have also co-authored legislation with Councilmembers Goings and Gelman to expand our youth workforce training programs.  Any realtor will tell you, the two drawing points for any corporation to move into a community is the education of its workforce and the ability to get goods and services in and out of the region.
2) Bring the talent and resources of Pierce Transit into our land use decision making.  It is time we rely on transit as a key part of our solution rather than just giving it lip service.
3) Offer to partner with Tacoma on sharing data and resources to focus our efforts to attract key business sectors as highlighted in the Prosperity Partnership.
4) As a Pierce Transit Board Member and a Member of the American Public Transit Association, I plan on working with Tacoma to help make high capacity transit a reality in our downtown and our high population neighborhoods.

Tacoma and Pierce County can make a beautiful partnership in recruiting and retaining family wage jobs.  We have been successful in the past and I look forward to a brighter future.

6) Arts and Community

You often visit Frost Park on Fridays at noon in downtown Tacoma in the weekly “Chalk Offs” at 9th and Pacific Avenue  Have you ever had any inclination to submit a chalk entry?  What type or art or antiques do you find yourself drawn to?

Answer: Considering the quality of art that is made at the Chalk-off and the lack of quality of anything I can contribute, I think I will just stick to legislating and watching the professionals.  =)

As far as the stuff laying about the house – I own a vintage 1891 home first occupied by State Senator Charles Claypool.  He was elected to represent Tacoma in the legislature from 1892-1896.  The home had been a rental for years and underwent a disastrous remodel in 1951 which removed most of its character.  I’ve spent the past four years trying to restore it.  The home is decorated with vintage local items and northwest art as is my office.  I am partial to Tacoma artist Joseph John Englehart and own several of his paintings.

7) Restoring Tacoma’s Streetcars

Question: Many Tacomans support restoring Tacoma’s streetcar system.  Gas prices are now at record levels.  Pierce County plays a large role in transportation systems in Tacoma.  Do you support restoring the streetcar network in Tacoma?  What steps would be needed to be taken to make this happen?

Answer: I live on K Street and outside my home; you can still see where the original street car line used to traverse the North Slope Neighborhood.  The streetcars were removed in 1938 and replaced with a bus system that was later taken over by Pierce Transit.  I believe that we can eventually rebuild a streetcar line; however, it will take some time, and a lot of good planning to make sure we run the lines where they will be most effective to foster redevelopment of Tacoma and serve the most people.

The challenge for the line will be two fold – where can we place it given the engineering constraints of a city being built into a hillside and, second, the large costs associated with building a system that can really serve a large segment of the Tacoma population.  In addition, the time it will take to implement the program could be up to 40 years.  In order to speed up the process and perhaps give Tacomans a taste of what these lines will look like much sooner, perhaps we need to take a step by step approach.

Any system route will have to be tested first – perhaps with a special high tech bus service with Bus Rapid Transit Features such as a dedicated lane and signalization preferences.  It would essentially be a Streetcar without the streetcar.  Once the transit routes are established and we redevelop around these lines, the final phase, actual streetcar placement, can replace the BRT lines with a permanent, fixed streetcar system.

VIII) Pollution Issues in Tacoma

Question: The City of Tacoma is currently failing the pollution criteria set by the State of Washington. What role can Pierce County play to reduce pollution in the city limits of Tacoma?

Answer: Good question – I believe that the answer is in how we work effectively as a region.  First, the Prosperity Partnership *a consortium of business and government in the tri-county area* has identified green jobs as a potential source of economic growth.  By working with Tacoma, we can devise incentives for “green energy” businesses to start up and locate in Pierce County.

As a member of the Pierce Transit Board of Commissioners, I believe having a comprehensive transit system that gets commuters out of our cars and into high capacity transit will go a long way toward reducing pollution in our city.

9) Crime Reduction Proposal by City Manager Eric Anderson

Question: City Manager Eric Anderson has set a goal to reduce crime in Tacoma by 50 percent in 14 months.  Given the predominant role Pierce County plays on the criminal justice system, what steps will you support the County government in taking so that the City of Tacoma can succeed?

Answer: As the co-chairman of the Criminal Justice Task Force, I can assist in several ways:

1) In Pierce County, recent studies show that 20% of the people account for 40% of the arrests.  There is a large “frequent flier” contingent of homeless residents who would benefit from a housing first program much like we have in the City of Tacoma.  By reducing the number of these people on the arrest records, we can free up jail, courtroom space, and law enforcement time to crack down harder on the other problems Tacoma is facing.
2) By making some efficiency changes on how our courts manage their caseloads, we can move people through the system faster.  This is fair for both offenders *remember, justice delayed is justice denied* and for keeping the jail open to take more of the offenders that we are “sipping” and releasing early and holding them.  It’s a much better disincentive to criminals to know that there is no longer a “jail lottery” and that if they get picked up for an offense, they are going to spend time in jail.
3) Continuing to work with the City and keep the doors open for suggestions and assistance where they feel they need it.

Additional Resources

Tim Farrell Web site

Melon Interview with Tim Farrell

Editors Note: November elections are almost upon us.  Today, the Tacoma Sun posts questions submitted to Calvin Goings as well as his answers.    There are three other candidates in the Pierce County Executive race.

1) Jail releases

The media has reported that the Pierce County Jail currently releases nearly all of the people who have been arrested in Pierce County into downtown Tacoma even if they are arrested in Orting or a remote area of the county.  Would you support a plan which would transport some or all of the jail releases to the places where they were arrested or where they live when their sentence ends?

Answer

Yes.

2) Growth management

Over the last 30 years, Pierce County has been known for suburban sprawl which has caused the loss of farmland, pollution, traffic congestion and disinvestment in Tacoma.

If you are elected, how will you address the effects of sprawl and growth management in Pierce County?  How would that plan be different, if at all, from what is in place now?

Answer:

For decades, Pierce County operated under an ‘anything goes, anytime, anywhere’ mind set.  For the past several years as a County Councilmember, I have been an outspoken supporter of reversing these poor decisions.

As Executive, I will continue to be a leader on farmland preservation, creation of new trails and open space preserves, and encouraging transit oriented development.  That is why I have laid out a bold Sustainability Plan for Tacoma and Pierce County (CalvinGoings.org/sustainability).  Due to my unwavering support of smart land use planning, I am pleased to have the sole endorsements of the Sierra Club and Washington Conservation Voters.

3)  Pierce County Felon “Dumping Ground” Issues

As you know, Tacoma and Pierce County have a disproportionate number of released felons placed by the Department of Corrections as described in the Tacoma City Club report: 30 Years of DOC in Pierce County, Was It Worth It?

If elected, what do you plan to do, if anything to reduce the number of felons placed in Tacoma and Pierce County?  Do you agree that Tacoma and Pierce County should have no more than their pro-rata share based on population?  How can the concentration of felons be reduced to its pro-rata share?

Answer:

For too long Tacoma has been a dumping ground for criminals.  As Executive, I will stop the state from continually exporting dangerous offenders to our community.  That is why I am proud to be the only candidate for Executive with the collective endorsements of our local police officers, sheriff’s deputies, corrections officers, and troopers.

We must also work to prevent crime from happening in the first place.  That is why I have laid out a specific crime prevention and law enforcement plan.  As Executive, my ‘Safe Pierce Plan’ (CalvinGoings.org/safe) will focus on winning strategies to keep our neighbors safe.

4) Elks Temple

A great many Tacoma’s would like to see the Elks Temple restored.  There have been plans discussed to possibly turn part of the building into a transit station.

What is your position on this issue?  What plan would you support?

Answer:

I support this plan.  Downtown Tacoma is the heart and soul of Pierce County.  I fully support ensuring the continued renaissance of Tacoma.  Many people in Tacoma often wonder how County land use decisions impact their lives in the city.

If the County continues to allow for lateral sprawl type development all the way out to Mt. Rainier, downtown urban areas will never be able to reach their full potential.  Additionally, services such as transit will be stretched too thin out to the suburbs to ever make transit oriented developments in downtown a functioning reality.

5) Rebuilding Tacoma

Despite the progress made, Tacoma still has a large number of vacant lots, and empty and blighted buildings relative to other west coast cities.  What role can you and Pierce County take, if you are re-elected, to support the rebuilding of downtown Tacoma and Tacoma’s mixed use centers.

Answer:

As stated above, decisions made by Piece County have a direct impact on the quality of life in the City of Tacoma.  As Executive, I will hold the line on sprawl in the County.  It makes no sense that in Tacoma some elementary schools may be closed due to declining enrollment, however, in Puyallup and Spanaway we can’t build schools fast enough.

Future growth should be focused where urban amenities such as schools, roads, and utilities already exist.  However, we must also require that higher density development be top quality that incorporates open space and public amenities, and is built with existing neighborhoods in mind.

6) Arts and Community

What artistic events in Tacoma do you enjoy and which ones have you attended?

Answer:

My family very much enjoys the diversity of downtown Tacoma’s art scene.  I am pleased to be a supporter and patron of the Broadway Center.  Additionally, I believe government does have a vital role to play in supporting a thriving arts community.  That is why I have led the effort to have Pierce County support the Theatre District, Arts Funds, and First Night.  Arts are key to a vibrant city core, and a bustling city core is key to long term and sustainable economic development.

7) Restoring Tacoma’s Streetcars

Many Tacomans support restoring Tacoma’s streetcar system.  Gas prices are now at record levels.  Pierce County plays a large role in transportation systems in Tacoma.  Do you support restoring the streetcar network in Tacoma?  What steps would be needed to be taken to make this happen?

Answer:

Yes.  As County Executive I will have seats on both the Sound Transit and Pierce Transit Boards of Commissioners.  I fully support a joint effort among Sound Transit, the City of Tacoma, and Pierce Transit to construct a street car network as a viable alternative to traffic congestion.

VIII) Pollution Issues in Tacoma

The City of Tacoma is currently failing the pollution criteria set by the State of Washington. What role can Pierce County play to reduce pollution in the city limits of Tacoma?

Answer:

The County Executive sits on the Puget Sound Clear Agency Board. This is the regional entity charged with addressing air pollution.  As Executive, I will deal with this very real issue head on.  We cannot pretend there is not a problem, or blame the problem on Tacoma’s south end as some have attempted to do.  Only by being honest and direct about our challenges can we address this issue.

9) Crime Reduction Proposal by City Manager Eric Anderson

City Manager Eric Anderson has set a goal to reduce crime in Tacoma by 50 percent in 14 months.  Given the predominant role Pierce County plays on the criminal justice system, what steps will you support the County government in taking so that the City of Tacoma can succeed?

Answer:

I fully support the City’s efforts to cut crime.  The County must be a willing and full partner in this effort.  That is why in my ‘Safe Pierce Plan’ I have called for the creation of regional task forces to deal with some of our most chronic challenges.

These regional efforts made up of police from Tacoma, Lakewood, and Pierce County would constitute a sustained proactive effort to deal with drugs, gangs, and prostitution.  I will also champion the efforts to support wining prevention programs like Safe Streets, and work to improve our failing 911 dispatch system.

More information on Goings:

Calvin Goings Web Site

Calvin Goings Interview by the Melon Online

Calvin Goings in Weekly Volcano

Calvin Goings Pierce County Council Web site

Ken Paulson, candidate for Pierce County Council District #4

Editors Note: November elections are almost upon us.  Today, the Tacoma Sun posts questions submitted to Ken Paulson who is running for Pierce County District No. 4.  His opponent is Tim Farrell, the incumbent.

Pierce County District No. 4 is especially important for Tacoma as it includes downtown Tacoma.

1) Jail releases

The media has reported that the Pierce County Jail currently releases nearly all of the people who have been arrested in Pierce county into downtown Tacoma even if they are arrested in Orting or a remote area of the county.  Would you support a plan which would transport some or all of the jail releasees to the places where they were arrested or where they live when their sentence ends?

Answer:  I am for this.  I would suggest offering incentives, such as being released a day or two early, if family, relatives or friends were responsible for picking up the released offender and providing the transportation instead of Pierce County footing the transportation bill.
2) Growth management

Over the last 30 years, Pierce County has been know for suburban sprawl which has caused the loss of farmland, pollution, traffic congestion and disinvestment in Tacoma.

If you are elected, how will you address the effects of sprawl and growth management in Pierce County?  How would that plan be different, if at all, from what is in place now?

Answer:  We can’t undo what has already happened.  Therefore we must move forward.  With the high price of fuel, people may no longer want to live in the far regions of Pierce County unless their place of employment is located nearby.
People with large lots in Pierce County should be able to short-plat and have a building site(s) in their back yard.  This would increase the density where there are already houses.  Community plans need to be re-evaluated for addressing the community’s specific needs.

3)  Pierce County Felon “Dumping Ground” Issues

As you know, Tacoma and Pierce County have a disproportionate number of released felons placed by the Department of Corrections as described in the Tacoma City Club report: 30 Years of DOC in Pierce County, Was It Worth It?

If elected, what do you plan to do, if anything to reduce the number of felons placed in Tacoma and Pierce County?  Do you agree that Tacoma and Pierce County should have no more than their pro-rata share based on population?  How can the concentration of felons be reduced to its pro-rata share?

Answer:  I absolutely believe that Tacoma and Pierce County should not have more than their pro-rata share of released felons.  Why should Tacoma and Pierce County be the dumping ground?  They should be required to be located in the county of offense.  I would advocate for this to happen.

Boundary of Pierce County District 4

4) Elks Temple

A great many Tacomans would like to see the Elks Temple restored.  There have been plans discussed to possibly turn part of the building into a transit station.

What is your position on this issue?  What plan would you support?

Answer:  It is not the mandate, function or responsibility of Pierce Transit to restore the Elks Temple.  If they didn’t plan the transit station correctly the first time, are we having the same people plan the next transit station and ending up with same results?

5) Rebuilding Tacoma

Despite the progress made, Tacoma still has a large number of vacant lots, and empty and blighted buildings relative to other west coast cities.  What role can you and Pierce County take, if you are re-elected, to support the rebuilding of downtown Tacoma and Tacoma’s mixed use centers.

Answer:  Downtown Tacoma has a great potential future.  I would gladly work with the City of Tacoma to attract new businesses and retain the existing business.  However, right now, and into the near future, money is going to be really tight for Pierce County.  In fact, most likely there will be employment reductions.  If this requires Pierce County General Fund budget money, there will be a line-up of requests.

6) Arts and Community

What artistic events in Tacoma do you enjoy and which ones have you attended?

Answer:  I have attended the 6th Avenue Arts Festival and the Proctor Arts Fair.  My wife enjoys the arts and people – and I enjoy my wife, so we attend these together.

7) Restoring Tacoma’s Streetcars

Many Tacomans support restoring Tacoma’s streetcar system.  Gas prices are now at record levels.  Pierce County plays a large role in transportation systems in Tacoma.  Do you support restoring the streetcar network in Tacoma?  What steps would need to be taken to make this happen?

Answer:  This is public vote issue.  My opinion is that buses are more versatile and able to accommodate more transportation needs.

VIII) Pollution Issues in Tacoma

The City of Tacoma is currently failing the pollution criteria set by the State of Washington. What role can Pierce County play to reduce pollution in the city limits of Tacoma?

Answer:  I don’t have an answer to this, but will listen to ideas and plans.

9) Crime Reduction Proposal by City Manager Eric Anderson

City Manager Eric Anderson has set a goal to reduce crime in Tacoma by 50 percent in 14 months.  Given the predominant role Pierce County plays on the criminal justice system, what steps will you support the County government in taking so that the City of Tacoma can succeed?

Answer:  I would advocate for harsher penalties for predators, rapists, and other life-demeaning acts of violence.  Another thought could be for both Tacoma and Pierce County to send illegal immigrants back to their country of origin as police and the criminal justice system encounter them.

But what do we know about them? Will they do anything to help the many needs Tacoma has?

If elected which candidate can obtain something meaningful like reduce suburban sprawl, help to rebuild Tacoma and reduce the disproportionate number of felons being place in Tacoma and in Pierce County?

Tacoma is located in Pierce County

Its true. Tacoma cannot get away from the tremendous influence Pierce County government has on the city. The county runs the jail and is in the best position to hold the line on the number of felons being placed in the county and in Tacoma.

Appropriately infilling and rebuilding the city also depends on Pierce County getting suburban sprawl under control.

Here are the questions sent to Ken Paulson and Tim Farrell, candidates for Pierce County Council District No 4.

We will post the responses when they come in.

Do you see any that we missed?

Tim Ferrell

Ken Paulson

1) Jail releases

The media has reported that the Pierce County Jail currently releases nearly all of the people who have been arrested in Pierce county into downtown Tacoma even if they are arrested in Orting or a remote area of the county. Would you support a plan which would transport some or all of the jail releasees to the places where they were arrested or where they live when their sentence ends?

Answer:

2) Growth management

Over the last 30 years, Pierce County has been know for suburban sprawl which has caused the loss of farmland, pollution, traffic congestion and disinvestment in Tacoma.

If you are re-elected, how will you address the effects of sprawl and growth management in Pierce County? How would that plan be different, if at all, from what is in place now?

Answer:

3) Pierce County Felon “Dumping Ground” Issues

As you know, Tacoma and Pierce County have a disproportionate number of released felons placed by the Department of Corrections as described in the Tacoma City Club report: 30 Years of DOC in Pierce County, Was It Worth It?

If re-elected, what do you plan to do, if anything to reduce the number of felons placed in Tacoma and Pierce County? Do you agree that Tacoma and Pierce County should have no more than their pro-rata share based on population? How can the concentration of felons be reduced to its pro-rata share?

Answer:

4) Elks Temple

A great many Tacomans would like to see the Elks Temple restored. There have been plans discussed to possibly turn part of the building into a transit station.

What is your position on this issue? What plan would you support?

Answer:

5) Rebuilding Tacoma

Despite the progress made, Tacoma still has a large number of vacant lots, and empty and blighted buildings relative to other west coast cities. What role can you and Pierce County take, if you are re-elected, to support the rebuilding of downtown Tacoma and Tacoma’s mixed use centers.

Answer:

6) Restoring Tacoma’s Streetcars

Many Tacomans support restoring Tacoma’s streetcar system. Gas prices are now at record levels. Pierce County plays a large role in transportation systems in Tacoma. Do you support restoring the streetcar network in Tacoma? What steps would be needed to be taken to make this happen?

Answer:

7) Pollution Issues in Tacoma

The City of Tacoma is currently failing the pollution criteria set by the State of Washington. What role can Pierce County play to reduce pollution in the city limits of Tacoma?

Answer:

VIII) Crime Reduction Proposal by City Manager Eric Anderson

City Manager Eric Anderson has set a goal to reduce crime in Tacoma by 50 percent in 14 months. Given the predominant role Pierce County plays on the criminal justice system, what steps will you support the County government in taking so that the City of Tacoma can succeed?

Answer:

Reference: The End of Suburbia (The Entire Movie)