Each candidate for three 2025 Federal Way City Council primary races received a questionnaire with identical questions. Their answers are below and unedited. Ballots for the primaries were mailed out on July 16. The 2025 primary election is Aug. 5. The top two finishers for position 2 will advance to the general election. For positions 4 and 6, the two candidates for each race will automatically advance to the general election.

Federal Way City Council Position No. 2

Paul McDaniel (incumbent)

Q: Why are you running for this position?

A: As a small business owner, Iraq War veteran, and current City Councilmember, I love my community and truly believe in its future potential. I’m running to continue the work of building a safer, family-friendly city where people can live, work, and thrive. I want to expand affordable housing options, improve public safety, support working families, and ensure our city remains fiscally responsible.

Q: The city is awarded a blank check for $400,000 that you can spend on anything that would improve the city. What would you spend it on and why?

A: I’d allocate $150,000 as a maintenance fund for the capital needs of three of the city’s most significant assets, the Federal Way Community Center, Dumas Bay, and the PAEC. The Resident Artists Program, which provides free or reduced access to the arts for our residents, would receive $75,000. These two actions would help reduce the burden on the city’s General Fund.

Because I have personally witnessed the great benefit that the city’s Financial Freedom classes have had on almost 200 Federal Way residents, I would use $100,000 to continue the work of helping our neighbors become debt-free and on the way to building generational wealth.

The remaining money would be used to work with local organizations, churches, and developers to create land banks of private and city-owned properties to lower the barrier for first-time homeownership — especially when paired with the Financial Freedom classes.

Q: When you think about your potential constituents, how would you describe the biggest challenges or concerns they currently face?

A: Their cost of living is increasing while their local job opportunities are decreasing. I understand that public safety is also a concern, but the financial pressure most residents face on a day-to-day basis, primarily due to the increased costs of housing, food, childcare, gas, and other essentials, is a bigger challenge.

As an example, when I last checked, the average cost of a house in Federal Way was nearly $600,000, average rental costs are just shy of $2,000/month, and full-time childcare can exceed $1,000 a month. Meanwhile, the average per capita (per person) income of a Federal Way resident is around $45,000. Add to this the recent closure of Federal Way businesses, including Amazon Fresh, Joann’s, Party City, Safeway, and Advanced Auto Parts, among others, and it’s clear residents need access to affordable housing and family-wage jobs.

Q: What are some actions that Federal Way city leaders could take to better celebrate and serve all of the city’s many cultures and communities?

A: Two ideas come to mind, the first would be to increase our size, scope, and outreach for events we currently put on. An excellent example is the Diversity Commissions Community Festival, happening on August 9th from 12 PM to 6 PM at Town Square Park. By just expanding the size of the event space, we could provide an opportunity for more groups to join and share their unique heritage. The second would be to create partnerships with members of our local community to redevelop some of our parks into culturally based educational parks. A great example of this type of partnership is the newly opened Hanwoori Garden, where Korean heritage is celebrated and showcased, providing all residents with an opportunity to learn and enjoy that culture in a meaningful way. These types of parks could promote unity and pride in our diverse community.

Q: Please share a recent example of a time that you went outside of your comfort zone to stand up for what was right.

A: I will provide two examples, the first was during our 2025/2026 budget cycle when I made the motion to equip the police department with a mental health crisis professional. While some thought I was taking money away from the police department, what I was doing was providing the department with a new tool that could be used to address difficult situations that sometimes need a different approach.

The second is when I stood up for our youth who are struggling with addiction, by making a motion to pass a resolution in support of a youth-based treatment facility. While some thought the action was too quick, I acted to ensure the already built-out location would not be used by King County to create a crisis drop-off facility, where we would have little control or say, potentially making our current homelessness and open drug issues worse.

Q: Federal Way is about to enter a time of growth and development with the impending opening of the light rail. Why are you uniquely qualified to lead the city through this time of change?

A: I am uniquely qualified to help lead the city through these changes because, as your city councilmember, I’ve spent the last couple of years taking the opportunity to meet with and listen to residents, discussing the issues they currently face and their concerns about the new light rail. This insight will help me address those concerns by working with the city to fully staff the current Police substation located across the street from the light rail. I would also work to establish a dedicated patrol route that focuses on the Pacific Highway and the city’s core downtown area. If necessary, I’m willing to strongly push back against the county and state plans if I believe they do not have the best interests of our city at heart. I will work to grow and protect our city in a responsible manner.

Martin Moore

Q: Why are you running for this position?

A: I’m running for Federal Way City Council Position 2 because this city gave me my start. As a child adopted from Bulgaria, I came here not knowing the language or culture—but Federal Way welcomed me. That experience shaped my belief in community and fueled my commitment to public service.

During my time on the Council from 2013 to 2021, I led efforts to make local government more transparent by launching an online budget dashboard and pushing to televise committee meetings. I also spearheaded the creation of a new sister city relationship with Rivne, Ukraine — recognizing the importance of global connection and honoring the immigrant roots shared by many in our community.

Public safety continues to be a priority, and I’m proud to have the endorsement of both our police and firefighters. I’ve supported adding more officers, raising pay, and ensuring they have the tools they need. I’m committed to building a thriving, inclusive city that uplifts every voice.

Q: The city is awarded a blank check for $400,000 that you can spend on anything that would improve the city. What would you spend it on and why?

If the City of Federal Way received a $400,000 blank check, I would view it as a tool to help mitigate the harm everyday residents are facing due to cuts to various assistance programs and services. I would set aside a portion of the funds to grow through a dedicated investment fund — allowing it to generate long-term returns supporting youth services.

I would first pilot a program to make the community center free for kids and teens during summer and winter breaks, while actively seeking sustainable funding to ensure its long-term future. This would give young people a safe, positive place to learn, play, and connect when school is out. I’d also provide direct funding to the MSC Food Bank, which has been—and will continue to be—severely impacted by the recent federal funding bill pushed by Trump and passed by Congress.

I’d invest in programs and capital improvement enhancements for senior residents. To ensure livability across all neighborhoods, I’d also invest in code enforcement staffing so the city can respond more effectively to resident concerns.

Q: When you think about your potential constituents, how would you describe the biggest challenges or concerns they currently face?

A: When I think about my potential constituents, I see a resilient community—but one that’s facing real challenges.

Families are paying more for groceries, gas, and rent, while critical safety nets are being pulled back. In Federal Way, the MSC Food Bank has seen a 20% spike in demand, yet lost 42% of its funding—forcing staff cuts and reduced service hours. That’s a local crisis. Seniors, working parents, and struggling families are being left with fewer resources and fewer places to turn.

While we can’t control what happens in D.C., local government can absolutely step in. We can partner with nonprofits, restore funding for essential human services, and support programs that directly respond to community needs. These are practical, local steps that make a real difference.

Federal Way should be a city where resilience is met with support, not silence—and that means having leaders at City Hall who are willing to speak up, listen, act, and stand with every resident.

Q: What are some actions that Federal Way city leaders could take to better celebrate and serve all of the city’s many cultures and communities?

A: As immigrant from Bulgaria, Federal Way gave me so many firsts, and it’s where I truly learned the power of belonging in a diverse community.

With over 100 languages and dialects spoken here, our diversity isn’t just something to celebrate—it’s our greatest strength. City leaders can do more to uplift that by continuing to invest in cultural events, the arts, language access programs, and immigrant and refugee services. We should also ensure our city commissions reflect the diversity of our community and work hand-in-hand with ethnic and faith-based organizations to shape inclusive policies. Even small actions—like displaying “Welcome to Federal Way” in multiple languages on the city’s electronic board off I-5—can help residents feel seen and valued.

When everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, Federal Way becomes a stronger, more united city for all of us.

Q: Please share a recent example of a time that you went outside of your comfort zone to stand up for what was right.

A: At first, I wasn’t comfortable taking a public stance on the issue of supervised heroin injection sites. It felt like a Seattle issue, not something that directly affected Federal Way at the time. But when King County began exploring possible locations and Federal Way was suddenly being mentioned as a potential site, I realized silence wasn’t an option.

I had to step outside my comfort zone and take a stand—loudly and clearly. I led the effort to pass a resolution opposing heroin injection sites in Federal Way. It wasn’t easy, and it meant challenging some powerful narratives—but I knew it was the right thing to do for our families, our neighborhoods, and our future. That experience taught me that even when an issue feels distant, real leadership means stepping up before it lands at your doorstep—and being willing to fight for your community when it matters most.

Q: Federal Way is about to enter a time of growth and development with the impending opening of the light rail. Why are you uniquely qualified to lead the city through this time of change?

A: If you’ve seen my yard signs, you’ve probably noticed the Sound Transit light rail on them—and that’s intentional. The arrival of light rail in 2026 is one of the most transformational moments in Federal Way’s history. It represents opportunity—but also the need for strong, experienced leadership that can guide this growth in a way that benefits everyone.

I’ve served on the City Council before, and during my time I focused on economic development, infrastructure, and policies that prepared us for this very moment. I worked across the aisle to bring in new businesses, improve public safety, and push for transparency in how we spend public dollars. What sets me apart is that I’m not new to this work—I’ve already laid the groundwork.

As someone who’s both lived the immigrant experience and understands the challenges working families face, I know how important it is that we get this right. Light rail can connect our residents to opportunity—but only if we lead with intention, equity, and a plan. That’s exactly what I bring to the table.

Nathan Orth

Q: Why are you running for this position?

A: I am fired up about housing. I’ve talked to quite a few homeowners recently while knocking on doors and when it comes up, recent home buyers express that they feel lucky to have found a house. Isn’t that wild? Feeling lucky to have one of our most basic needs met is incredibly upsetting to me because it tells me that society is failing to see and address that need.

I am tired of the same problems in our city never being fully addressed. I believe that my unique experience in operations, where issues need to be solved quickly and efficiently not just endlessly discussed, will help finally make some real progress.

Q: The city is awarded a blank check for $400,000 that you can spend on anything that would improve the city. What would you spend it on and why?

A: I would take advantage of the recent middle housing bill to find somewhere for the city to build housing and sell it to first time home buyer(s) a little above cost. After that sale I would take any funds received to build more housing and grow that fund to build more and more housing. My hope is to stabilize the housing market to a point where it stops outpacing inflation and wage growth by leaps and bounds every year.

My plan to non-magically find this same funding is for Federal Way to stop blocking the sale of cannabis. Currently people who use cannabis in its various forms are either going to one of the giant stores along the city border and paying their sin tax into one of our neighboring cities coffers or worse propping up the illicit sales market.

Q: When you think about your potential constituents, how would you describe the biggest challenges or concerns they currently face?

A: The people I’ve spoken with in Federal Way consistently raise concerns about rising costs, crime, growing homelessness, and open public drug-use. These aren’t abstract issues. They are things we see as we drive through our neighborhoods. There may be differences of opinion about how to solve these issues but there’s a clear shared desire for action and accountability.

I personally believe that housing and specifically housing costs has a knock-on effect on all of these issues which is why I put so much emphasis on building housing. The pressure exerted on the working class by soaring costs, especially housing costs is becoming too much and can cause some to crack and make bad choices. Anything we can do to relieve that pressure helps steer society back in the direction where we all benefit.

Q: What are some actions that Federal Way city leaders could take to better celebrate and serve all of the city’s many cultures and communities?

A: I think Federal Way does a pretty good job with representation but honestly as another cis-white dude I am not the best judge of what is or is not being represented equally. The city has a diversity commission and I would rely on their expertise to find any gaps we might have and their advice on how to tackle them.

One possibility is with the city taking on running the local farmers market we have the opportunity to use some of the farmers market event days to celebrate and elevate specific cultures and communities. This would maybe help with expanding and diversifying the number of vendors who show up and encourage more folks to show up throughout the season as well.

Q: Please share a recent example of a time that you went outside of your comfort zone to stand up for what was right.

A: I was excited to join over a thousand of our fellow citizens on No Kings Day June 14th, celebrating America’s dignified rejection of monarchs and those who would act like them. It was my first protest and stepping into that space was outside of my comfort zone. But it was the right thing to do.

The energy of that day was reinvigorating. People marching with signs, drivers honking in support, neighbors coming together with a shared sense of purpose. Standing up for what we all know in our hearts is right. It reminded me that real democracy lives in the willingness of everyday people to stand up and speak out.

Q: Federal Way is about to enter a time of growth and development with the impending opening of the light rail. Why are you uniquely qualified to lead the city through this time of change?

A: My background in operations is built on delivering measurable outcomes, not just ideas. I know how to build systems that work and turn plans into action. That is the kind of leadership that Federal Way needs right now.

I think we’ve all seen the fliers from current city leadership celebrating our zombiemall and the stroad it rode in on and frankly I don’t see the will or leadership in place to fix what could be a real city center. We need mixed use zoning tightly packed around the light rail. We need to find ways to encourage businesses with good jobs to set up here in the city. We need training programs in place to harden our community against impending AI related job losses. And we need leadership that actually sees these issues so it can address them.

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Federal Way City Council Position No. 4

Federal Way City Council Position 4 candidate Melissa Hamilton. Courtesy photo

Melissa Hamilton

Q: Why are you running for this position?

A: I’m running for City Council to keep Federal Way centered on opportunity by ensuring safe neighborhoods, protecting housing affordability, and promoting economic development while investing in our community’s future. I’ve spent my life in public service, and I know how important it is to have leaders who are connected, informed, and committed to real solutions. I’ve been showing up to city hall meetings for several years, listening to what residents care about most, whether it’s public safety, the cost of living, or the condition of our downtown. We need steady, thoughtful leadership that reflects the values of our community and focuses on meaningful forward progress. I bring a background in local government, experience on city commissions, and a deep commitment to community service serving the people of Federal Way. I’m ready to get to work on day one to help move our city forward.

Q: The city is awarded a blank check for $400,000 that you can spend on anything that would improve the city. What would you spend it on and why?

A: A $400,000 unrestricted check would be a welcome opportunity to invest in our city. While most progress is built on consistent, responsible budgeting, one-time funding can make a meaningful difference when used wisely. If given the chance, I would advocate for efforts that support small businesses and invest in our youth. That could include grants to help local businesses revitalize their storefronts or mentorship and leadership programs for young people. I believe these areas create long-term value and strengthen the fabric of our city. Whether funding is limited or unexpected, my approach is the same. Use every dollar to support safe neighborhoods, a strong local economy, and real opportunity for the residents of Federal Way. As a councilmember, I’ll focus on community-driven investments that reflect our values and move Federal Way forward in a fiscally responsible and sustainable way.

Q: When you think about your potential constituents, how would you describe the biggest challenges or concerns they currently face?

A: I’ve spent the last several years listening to people in our community, at city council meetings, community gatherings, and through personal conversations. The concerns I hear most often are about public safety and affordability. People want to feel safe in their homes and around town. Public safety is the fundamental responsibility of local government so it’s no surprise that it’s consistently top of mind. I also hear frustration about the rising cost of living and doing business. Families are feeling the financial squeeze. These aren’t abstract policy issues, but rather everyday realities. As a councilmember, I’ll stay focused on the issues that matter most: making our city safer, protecting housing affordability by increasing supply and keeping taxes low, and supporting a strong local economy. I believe the best solutions come from listening first, then taking action that’s practical and responsive to the needs of the people we serve.

Q: What are some actions that Federal Way city leaders could take to better celebrate and serve all of the city’s many cultures and communities?

A: Federal Way is proud to be a community made up of many cultures and backgrounds, and city leaders have an opportunity to strengthen that diversity by focusing on shared opportunities and what unites us. When a local minority-owned Halal grocery store was vandalized, I showed up the next morning to help clean up and speak with the owner about how we can support our small businesses and create a safer, more welcoming downtown for everyone. This is the kind of leadership you can expect from me. Supporting and celebrating diverse communities also means showing up for people and ensuring all residents feel heard and valued. Outreach that listens and responds is key. By making city services accessible and creating opportunities for residents to succeed, we don’t just celebrate our diversity, we live it. Building a stronger, more connected Federal Way starts with respect and support for every corner of our community.

Q: Please share a recent example of a time that you went outside of your comfort zone to stand up for what was right.

A: Standing up for what’s right isn’t outside my comfort zone, it’s what strong leaders do. One example is when I spoke up against policies that were making our city less safe, even when it meant challenging popular political narratives. While some were committed to supporting laws like the 2021 police pursuit restrictions, I was hearing a very different story from our residents, law enforcement officers, and small business owners. They were telling me those changes were tying officers’ hands and allowing dangerous individuals to evade accountability. Speaking out wasn’t politically convenient, especially when some leaders adamantly stood by those policies, but I also knew I couldn’t stay silent. I believe public safety isn’t a partisan issue. It’s a community issue. I chose to stand with those whose lives and livelihoods were being impacted, and I’ll continue to fight for balanced, common-sense policies that keep our neighborhoods and downtown safe.

Q: Federal Way is about to enter a time of growth and development with the impending opening of the light rail. Why are you uniquely qualified to lead the city through this time of change?

A: With light rail on the way, Federal Way is entering a pivotal time of change that brings both opportunity and new challenges, and we need leadership that is ready for it. I’ve built strong relationships with public safety leaders, housing industry experts, and small business advocates because I believe collaboration is key to meeting this moment. I’m proud to have the endorsement of the Affordable Housing Council of the Master Builders and our local law enforcement community. With more people expected to call Federal Way home, we must plan to ensure housing supply keeps pace, small businesses are prepared, and public safety remains a top priority. We cannot rely on one-size-fits-all policies from Olympia. Local voices must guide local decisions. I’m focused on practical, community-first solutions that reflect what makes Federal Way unique. This is a critical moment, and I’m ready to lead our city forward with trust, experience, and commitment.

Federal Way City Council Position 4 candidate Tammy Dziak. Courtesy photo

Tammy Dziak

Q: Why are you running for this position?

A: I’m running for position 4 because I care deeply about the city and the people who call it home. As we face challenges like rising housing costs, public safety concerns and hopelessness, I believe our city deserves a leader who truly listens, understands the community and can bring people together to find real workable solutions. I have the connections, creativity and determination to make Federal Way safer, welcoming and vibrant for everyone. I have lived here for 38 years. This city has given me so much over the years and I want to give back by using my experience, my voice and my passion to ensure that Federal Way moves forward with integrity and care. I want to represent the everyday people of our city, families, seniors, business owners and young people to make sure that the needs of and hopes are at the center of every decision we make

Q: The city is awarded a blank check for $400,000 that you can spend on anything that would improve the city. What would you spend it on and why?

A: Public Safety. I recommend improving the lighting and installing additional cameras in areas with elevated crime rates. I believe we need to provide funding that works to prevent youth violence. Additionally, we must provide our first responders with more training, resources and safety gear.

Q: When you think about your potential constituents, how would you describe the biggest challenges or concerns they currently face?

A: I want to be the voice of the citizens of Federal Way. Before making the final decision to represent them on the City Council, it made sense to ask what mattered most and was I qualified to make the changes. Yes, I am and here are the top concerns. Crime and Public Safety, Housing Affordability, Homelessness

Q: What are some actions that Federal Way city leaders could take to better celebrate and serve all the city’s many cultures and communities?

A: I have often said how fortunate we are to live in a community so diversified. When I grew up I did not get the pleasure of being surrounded by the diversity we are privileged to live in now. Our children and grandchildren are so fortunate to be able to be around other cultures and understand them and learn about them. I would like to see our city Host a multi-cultural festival. We should acknowledge and observe important dates to other communities as well as what we do now for instance an indigenous people’s day Diwali, Jamhuri etc.

Q: Please share a recent example of a time that you went outside of your comfort zone to stand up for what was right.

A: I was at a bank, and I believed that the elderly lady that was there with, what I felt was someone trying to scam her out of money, I stepped in and asked the two if I could be of help. The man told me to mind my own business. When the elderly lady looked at me, I could see that she was crying for help. That is when I stepped in and went to a bank manager and told them I had suspicions of her being financially exploited. I told the bank manager about my experience working with seniors and my close relationship with Adult Protective Services. Thankfully he took me seriously. As it turned out this was a grandson forcing her to give him money. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get the ending results of what exactly happened

Q: Federal Way is about to enter a time of growth and development with the impending opening of the light rail. Why are you uniquely qualified to lead the city through this time of change?

A: I am deeply connected to Federal Way with 38 years of building relationships culturally and generationally. I am a problem solver who can make brave well thought out decisions to move us forward. I am not afraid. I see the bigger picture, the need to balance growth with affordability, public safety with compassion and progress while preserving what makes Federal Way feel like home and makes us proud of our city.

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Federal Way City Council Position No. 6

Federal Way City Council Position 6 candidate Jack Dovey. Courtesy photo

Jack Dovey (incumbent)

Q: Why are you running for this position?

A: I am running because I have 18 years of service over the last 30 years, serving as a Federal way Council Member. I have been thru the good times and the bad times when the City had to lay people off. I have chaired and served on the Land Use and Transportation committee for 18 years and have the experience which is critical as the council continues to work on ways to offer affordable housing for sale in our city. The Council needs to continue working with developers and making sure they understand Federal Way wants more quality homes at lower purchase prices for the buyers. I was elected the Mayor of Federal Way in 2008 and understand how to work efficiently for the citizens of Federal Way and the businesses. In addition to understanding what a city council person’s role is in the city, I understand how to run a multi million dollar business which was started in 1985. I believe for the next 4 years it is more important to have a competent experienced council member than a new individual who needs to learn how things work.

Q: The city is awarded a blank check for $400,000 that you can spend on anything that would improve the city. What would you spend it on and why?

A: I would allocate the $ 400,000.00 as follows:

a. continue funding the Bob Towne Financial Freedom classes, which has graduated 176 Federal Way residents, who have reduced their debts by almost $ 200,000 dollars. These free classes have helped Federal Way citizens become more educated in how to manage money and reduce household debt. Funding would be $ 100.000 for 2025.

b. I would hire an additional permit reviewer/planner in the Community Development department of Federal Way. This funding will reduce the time to get a permit in Federal Way. The funding would be $ 100,000.00

c. I would set aside seed money for a group to develop a second cultural park like the new Korean Park near Pather Lake part. The set aside would be $ 50,000.

d. I would fund an afternoon Friday drop in program for Federal Way students to drop into at the Young life house, the Federal Way Community Center, and the Boys and Girls Club. The funding would be $ 100,000.00 to pay for admission and programs.

e. I would fund the continued study to determine if a Community Market would succeed in Federal Way. The amount of funding would be $ 40,000.00

d. I would prepare for a July 4, 2025 parade in Federal Way. Funding would be $ 10,000.00

Q: When you think about your potential constituents, how would you describe the biggest challenges or concerns they currently face?

A: Today many of the of the people living in Federal Way, including my family are concerned about the increased costs to live in Washington. I believe the City needs to continue offering first class services with out raising taxes. The City needs to always to provide exceptional police services, which is always our number one responsibility. The Federal Way Council needs to not raise taxes and not be temped to vote for new higher taxes which were passed by the State Legislature.

Q: What are some actions that Federal Way city leaders could take to better celebrate and serve all of the city’s many cultures and communities?

A: Celebrating our many cultures is very important activity to accomplish in Federal Way. I would like to encourage additional cultural parks like then new Korean Park located at Panther Lake. The city needs to set aside 6 additional parcel like the new Korean Park for other cultural groups to plan and build parks like the one just completed. The first park I suggest we build is a Flag Pavillion where city flag raising can occur. The next 5 small cultural parks would be offered any cultural group that would work with the parks department to design, fund raise and build a culturally themed park. I believe these parks would also draw tourists to our city.

Q: Please share a recent example of a time that you went outside of your comfort zone to stand up for what was right.

I always do my best to stand up for what is right. However when making a decison that someone does not agree with may make them think you did not do what was right. I am not afraid to be the one that questions why a decison is being made that may not be needed or has not completly been thought out. I am not afraid to vote for or against something that others do not beleive should pass or fail.

Q: Federal Way is about to enter a time of growth and development with the impending opening of the light rail. Why are you uniquely qualified to lead the city through this time of change?

A: I have run a business and have a very good understanding about land use and transportation. My college degree was in Geography and Transportation. I understand the how transportation systems work. To multiply the likely success of the light rail coming to Federal Way, the City Councill needs to make it simpler to build housing and businesses close to the transit center. The City also needs to work with Sound Transit and Metro to build a better transportation feeder system for the Federal Way neighborhoods to get to the new transit center. For the last 10 years I have worked with transit authorities around the nation assisting in building their communication systems so the transit groups could provide more services to the neighborhoods. My knowledge and working experience will be helpful in working with Metro and Sound Transit as they work with Federal way to improve mobility to the transit center. I do not have to be taught how the systems work and I know what questions to ask to get what Federal Way is going to need.

Federal Way City Council Position 6 candidate Les Sessoms. Courtesy photo

Les Sessoms

Q: Why are you running for this position?

A: I’m running for Federal Way City Council, Position 6, because I believe in Federal Way’s potential to be a thriving, safe, and inclusive city for everyone. We are not managing our growth very well, and we need change. As a long-time Twin Lakes resident, husband, and professional with decades of experience in higher education, career development, and workforce development, I’ve spent my career helping people build better futures, and I want to do the same for our city.

I understand the challenges Federal Way families face: rising housing costs, economic uncertainty, and feeling unheard by City Hall. But I also see incredible opportunities. Together, we can grow our local economy, support small businesses, create good-paying jobs, and strengthen public safety while building trust and transparency.

Federal Way deserves leadership that listens, acts, and delivers results. Let’s work together to build a stronger, safer, and more connected community for our families.

Q: The city is awarded a blank check for $400,000 that you can spend on anything that would improve the city. What would you spend it on and why?

A: I would spend the money on launching a small business and entrepreneur incubator ($150k) because I know small businesses are the backbone of Federal Way’s economy. More business means more local jobs, more tax revenue, and better services. Next, I would spend $150k to expand mental health and homelessness outreach because these issues impact and strain public safety resources. It will take leadership to harness the resources that we already have and improve them! Finally, I would spend $100k on creating a youth career and apprenticeship hub. I believe we must prepare young people for in-demand careers that will strengthen our future workforce, which will keep talent in Federal Way and provide them positive alternatives to crime and unemployment. I believe in youth engagement!

Q: When you think about your potential constituents, how would you describe the biggest challenges or concerns they currently face?

A: The people of Federal Way face high inflation for many basic necessities like food and transportation. Many contend with job uncertainty while having their healthcare or Medicare or Medicaid cut. Having experienced a job layoff several years ago, I know from firsthand experience that it creates anxiety. I also know from talking with seniors that they face unreliable public transportation options to help them get to medical appointments or to the grocery store. Our young adults are facing the threat of poor job prospects. They need access to good-paying, livable wage jobs and business incubators that can help them launch small businesses.

Q: What are some actions that Federal Way city leaders could take to better celebrate and serve all of the city’s many cultures and communities?

A: As a Black man with Ojibwe ancestry. I would like to institute a Land Acknowledgment tradition before every meeting to highlight the fact that the city of Federal Way sits on land once owned by the Puyallup Tribe. The City could also make proclamations on a more consistent basis that go beyond performative gestures. The Diversity Commission needs to be recognized and be saluted for its hard work and empowered to do even more. They could help sponsor groups and community organizations that seek to build community and cultural awareness. Recognizing the legacy of John Conna, a Black man who was one of the founders of Federal Way, with the new Conna Park and the establishment of Hanwoori Park, were both good efforts. We need more!

Q: Please share a recent example of a time that you went outside of your comfort zone to stand up for what was right.

A: I believe that compassionate actions speak louder than words. Recently, I intervened when a man was loudly berating an elderly woman and told him to back off and stop bullying. Because I don’t like to see people go hungry, I bought a meal for a woman who was panhandling outside of a local restaurant on Pac Highway.

Q: Federal Way is about to enter a time of growth and development with the impending opening of the light rail. Why are you uniquely qualified to lead the city through this time of change?

A: I have lived in Federal Way for about 25 years and use public transportation to and from my job in Seattle almost every day, so I know the importance of light rail and its impact on our downtown core. With a master’s degree in organizational leadership, I can bring a progressive leadership style to the city council to manage this growth. My professional experience will enable me to collaborate and work in a team-oriented fashion to make progress in establishing a stable economic base in Federal Way. We can grow our local economy, support small businesses, create good-paying jobs, and strengthen public safety to make our downtown district more pedestrian-friendly and accessible.