In answers to questionnaires from the Chamber of Commerce, restaurateur Laurie Gere cites here business management and volunteer activities while incumbent Mayor Dean Maxwell cites his five terms at City Hall.
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"We maintain the lowest property tax rates of all cities in the county; balanced budgets each of the past 20 years, maintain strong reserves and achieved the city’s highest bond ratings ever," Maxwell said.
He added that the city has navigated the worst recession and economic collapse in Skagit County in 80 hers without cutting any services.
Gere said, "I have successfully steered my business—in an industry known for its high rate of failure-- through 32 years of economic ups and downs. I understand the business community and the difficulties facing the small business owner."
Gere promised a new approach to the Mayors job with what she called a "collaborative leadership stye" developed through years of community service.
The Chamber submitted questionnaires to all candidates and their responses are available on the Chamber's Web site.
Gere had a significant lead over Maxwell in the four-person primary race, leading with 46 percent of the vote, leading by 2,894 votes to Maxwell's 1,844 votes. Businessman Mitch Everton took 948 votes, while City council member Brian Geer won only 581 votes.
When it comes to setting priorities, Maxwell said his top priority is to provide Anacortes with as many opportunities as he can. He quoted the city's mission statement. "The mission of the City of Anacortes is to maintain and improve the quality of life reflecting community expectations through a focus on public participation and employees-mayor-council teamwork."
Gere said her top priority will be to "develop a community vision and strategic plan to guide us in our decisions." She added, "An essential part of any community visioning process is broad-based involvement of all the stakeholders in our City—citizens, the Port, schools, businesses and industries, marine representatives, social services—everyone."
The Chamber's questionnaire asked what each candidate would do to remove the perception of the anti-business climate in Anacortes.
Gere answered, "First, we need to make sure that our land-use code is clear and unambiguous. This will help both property owners and developers understand what is—and is not—allowed in different areas of the city. Clear rules and regulations prevent costly delays for both the city and developer and reduce the likelihood of costly litigation. "
Maxwell challenged the anti-business characterization, but suggested some people in town oppose change. "You can’t ignore problems, and you don’t have the luxury of listening to only the loudest voices; your job is to consider what is good and what is needed for the whole community."