Fire District 5 has a contested commissioner seat. Dave Hauge faces off against Kevin Koski. Koski did not reply to multiple attempts for answers to a questionnaire. Here are Hauge’s responses:

Dave Hauge

Tell the readers about yourself.

Dave Hauge, I’m employed at Ascensus Specialties in Elma as a chemical operator. I served for one term from 2010 to 2016 as a commissioner for GHFD5 and did not pursue another term for personal reasons, but feel I can contribute now so I am working to obtain a commissioner position.

Why are you most qualified to be the Fire District 5 Position 3 commissioner?

I held the position of commissioner for a 6 year term. During that term I led special projects and prepared correspondence for the commission. I implemented a purchase order system to better manage expenditures. I was raised in a self-employed family and was a store manager for Dennis Company before my current career. As a former commissioner and being in business occupations, it has given me experience and knowledge. I am qualified to hold the position of Grays Harbor Fire District 5 Commissioner.

Do you have any goals you wish to achieve as commissioner?

I would like to see a disaster assistance program developed so the residents could go to a local location for help or to offer help in a major disaster. The emergency response system could be overwhelmed and the public may be on their own for a period of time. The community needs to have a plan in place so we can help our friends and neighbors.

What would you like to see change/stay the same with the commission?

The commission has had some bumps and bruises in the past but looking forward there are positive achievements in our future that the commission can accomplish. I would like to see consolidation or a Rural Fire Authority developed with our neighboring departments which would change the way our executive branch operates. I would welcome the formation of a new leadership group even if it eliminated the commissioners through consolidation and give our community better service, efficiency and sustainability.