Montesano City Council incumbent Tyler Trimble had been challenged at the beginning of the election season, however his challenger has dropped out to the race. Raymond Meyers will appear on the ballot but he has withdrawn from the election due to health concerns. He is asking voters to not vote for him.
Tell the voters about your background, both personal and professional:
Trimble: I am a lifelong resident of Montesano. Graduate of Montesano High School, Grays Harbor College and hold a Business Administration Degree from City University. I currently am the event’s and operations coordinator for Tumwater Valley Golf Course in Tumwater and I officiate collegiate basketball.
What should the city’s priorities be during budgeting?
Trimble: The number-one priority that the city should be looking at during budgeting is our general fund reserves and how the city will maintain or increase our revenues. The current city council is adopting a financial policy that sets what we will maintain to cover at least 90 days worth of expenditures. Just about two years ago we were faced with a dire need to reorganize our spending of the general fund as we were projected to have a negative fund balance. We, as citizens and taxpayers to our city, should never have a negative fund balance and should hold the council accountable to live within the means of the city. Thankfully, we were able to restructure some positions and have gained ground back in our general fund. The current city council also made a forest purchase this past year using some general fund allocation, meaning when forestland is harvested in the future, the general fund will see a benefit in revenue. If we are able to maintain these levels in our general fund, the city can then address the maintenance and repair of our city infrastructure. Although we never want to see increase in our utility bills or additional taxes, a very in-depth look on how to finance and afford good city streets is needed.
What are the biggest issues facing the city?
Trimble: The biggest issues facing the city are our economic development and generating revenue. The way we generate revenue is to have strong economic development in our city. Now, that doesn’t mean we need to get crazy and go find large retailers or the alike because we all like Montesano for being Montesano. But sometimes we need to think outside of the box and allow for some change and growth for the good for all.
How do you feel you would get along with the current administration?
Trimble: I would continue to get along with current administration in an extremely positive manner. While we may have differing opinions on some issues, it creates a very healthy environment where you are able to have your opinion without being disrespected for that opinion. There are a lot of good things happening for our city and if we continue down the path we are going we will see great things.
