Candidates vying for Pos. 4 on the Bothell City Council are James McNeal, the incumbent, and Matt Seymour, a real estate professional.
Seymour did not respond to the Reporter’s repeated attempts of contact.
How do you intend to support walkability and transportation in and around Bothell?
James McNeal: Our community has spoken with the passing of SafeStreets and Sidewalks. I will continue supporting development that allows for a vibrant and walkable Bothell in both King and Snohomish counties. I will continue working to make sure our voice is heard on a regional level with the transportation agencies.
How do you hope to support affordable and workforce housing within Bothell’s established neighborhoods?
McNeal: I will continue to work with local and regional leaders on programs that bring public and private partners together to create workforce and affordable housing. I will continue to raise awareness on the different forms of affordable housing needs such as youth and senior affordable housing as more seniors are living in place.
How will you support the city’s natural attractions, like the Shelton View Forest, for instance?
McNeal: I will continue volunteering and working alongside community groups to ensure future generations have these special places as we do today. I will continue raising awareness around finding opportunities for them to become self-sustaining in perpetuity for future generations to enjoy by working with regional leaders like I did on the former Wayne Golf Course.
How will you go about keeping Bothell’s character intact while also attending to necessary maintenance?
McNeal: Continue listening to the community and working to raise awareness on things that matter most to the community. It’s important to us here in Bothell and working with other leaders regionally to help ensure we receive funding on the important infrastructure and maintenance needs.
It’s important to understand we must work together on the things that make Bothell great. One council person cannot do it alone. Councilmembers must also work alongside other city, county and state leaders regionally to ensure Bothell’s voice is heard. It has been an honor serving the community the past four years and I look forward to continuing my work on behalf of the Bothell community and working with youth and seniors.