Election 2025: Local candidates in city races answer Frontiersman questionnaire

It is almost time for the local city elections in the Mat-Su, as Wasilla, Houston, and Palmer cities all have candidates running for city council. Palmer also has candidates vying for Mayor.

In an effort to provide voters with straightforward insights into the race, the candidates had the opportunity to answers five questions from the Frontiersman candidate questionnaire as part of our 2025 election coverage.

The survey, which asked candidates to provide their stances on a range of topics from what they view the top three issues are in their respective cities, to how to ensure all voices are being heard and offers a direct comparison of their priorities and visions.

Some answers were surprising in their agreement. For example, in Houston, the candidates who responded all cited a desire for transparency and open, respectful communication and listed road improvements as a top priority.

The questions the candidates were asked:

1. Why are you running for office and what motivated you to serve?

2. What is your professional and personal background and how has it prepared you to address the issues, policies, and budgets facing your community?

3. What are the top 3 issues facing your community and how do you plan to address them if elected?

4. How do you plan to work collaboratively with other members of the city council and the community to get things done?

5. What are your ideas to make sure every part of the community feels they are fairly and adequately represented?

We will publish the results of its candidate questionnaire on our website.

The Mat-Su Borough Assembly, Mat-Su School Board, and other election information will be covered later this month. Not all candidates replied. We have included every response that was submitted, though some were edited for space requirements. Responses are in alphabetical order.

City of Houston

Ron Bass

I believe Houston deserves strong community support and practical solutions. I am motivated by a desire to strengthen our town through kindness, cooperation, and action. One of my first goals is to establish a food bank, because no family should go without. I want to make sure our community has the resources and infrastructure it needs to thrive.

I am an entrepreneur, small business owner, father of two, and now a proud grandpa. Running businesses has taught me how to work within a budget, make tough decisions, and plan for growth. As a lifelong Alaskan, I understand the challenges our community faces and the importance of supporting one another. My background has prepared me to look for real solutions that are both practical and financially responsible.

Food security: I will work to create a Houston food bank so no one in our community goes hungry.

Energy access: Expanding natural gas to all residents will lower costs and make our community more sustainable.

Community support: We need to invest in programs that help families and young people succeed, while also supporting seniors and veterans.

I believe in respectful communication. Bullying or badmouthing each other does not build solutions. I will listen carefully, speak with kindness, and work to find common ground. By focusing on what unites us, we can make progress on the issues that matter most to Houston.

Every voice matters. I will make myself available, listen to concerns directly, and ensure that decisions are made with the whole community in mind—not just a few. My goal is for every resident to feel heard, respected, and supported, whether they live in the city center or on the outskirts.

David Childs

I’m running for reelection because I care deeply about the people of Houston and the future of our community. My motivation to serve has always come from a desire to give back to the place where I live and work, and to make sure that Houston continues to be a safe, welcoming, and forward-looking city. Over the years, I’ve seen the challenges and opportunities our residents face, and I believe that with steady leadership, open communication, and careful planning, we can continue building a strong foundation for growth while protecting the small-town values that make Houston special.

I have lived in the Mat-Su Valley for 37 years and spent 6 years in rural Alaska, which has given me a strong understanding of both the challenges and the opportunities our communities face. Professionally, I have served as a school teacher for 32 years, working with families and young people while learning how to listen, problem-solve, and plan for long-term success.

In addition, I ran a small business as a fishing boat captain, which taught me the importance of responsibility, budgeting, and making sound decisions under pressure. These experiences—both in the classroom and in business—have prepared me to approach city issues, policies, and budgets with a balance of practical knowledge, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to the people of Houston.

The top three issues facing Houston are natural gas expansion, improving our roads and infrastructure, and continuing to make Houston a place where people want to live, work, and raise families. Expanding natural gas is a priority because it will lower heating costs for residents and businesses while reducing our reliance on other fuels. Roads and infrastructure need steady investment so that we can improve safety, support local commerce, and prepare for future growth. Finally, I want to ensure Houston remains a community of choice by supporting safe neighborhoods, smart development, and opportunities that improve quality of life. By working with state and federal partners, securing funding, and engaging our residents in the decision-making process, I will keep moving these priorities forward in a responsible and transparent way.

Collaboration starts with respect and open communication. I believe every council member and community member brings a valuable perspective to the table, and the best decisions happen when we listen to one another and work toward common goals. My approach is to foster transparency, encourage healthy discussion, and keep the focus on what benefits Houston as a whole. By building consensus and maintaining trust, I am confident we can get things done for our community.

Making sure every part of our community feels fairly represented starts with listening. Houston is made up of people with different needs and perspectives, and it’s important that everyone has a seat at the table. I believe in open communication, making city government accessible, and being available to hear concerns directly from residents. By encouraging participation in public meetings, being transparent about decisions, and ensuring that policies reflect the needs of all neighborhoods and families, not just a few, we can build trust and make sure every voice is valued in shaping the future of our city.

Callie Courtney

I don’t think the community is heard. My point of view is of first-hand experience with being a business owner in town, and having difficulty with the city on a specific issue. I spoke in front of the council about this issue, and offered a solution to the problem, and even volunteered to carry out the solution at no cost to the city and it fell on deaf ears. Since then, this same issue has been met by many other new businesses in town. I fear that the negative impact that this issue has had will impede new businesses from wanting to set roots in Houston. Small businesses are the backbone of any community, and I feel we lack that respect from the city and lack of Chamber of Commerce.

Graduating from Iowa State University, owner of 2 Alaska businesses, and growing up as a hard-working farm kid, my background spreads over a huge array. I began my career as a livestock nutritionist working for companies such as Agri-King, Purina, and CHR- Hansen. I worked as part of farm management teams on 1,000-10,000 cow dairies, which were a collaboration and would meet, discuss issues the farms were facing, and work together to solve the problem, mitigate cost, and make the farm efficient, cows healthy and happy and ensure the staff needs met while keeping the finances healthy. This took a lot of brainstorming and ideas from everyone and thinking outside the box. I have always worked for the best interest of each farm, and would take that same experience with me to the council.

The priorities:

1. Roads

a. Go through the budget with a fine-tooth comb to see what is absolutely necessary for road maintenance.

b. Do we NEED all the equipment we have, or is some equipment more budget-friendly to rent occasionally?

c. Entertain the option of pricing out road maintenance for hire using other entities.

d. Using the new Houston city APP to streamline road maintenance.

2.) Community Involvement and Communication

a. Take residents’ concerns seriously, reach out to them, reply to emails, and have friendly open-door policies for phone calls and in-person conversations.

b. Encourage residents to come together to help our neighbors and community thrive.

c. Encourage more family-friendly events and get-togethers. These events could be as simple as a sledding day or pot luck.

3.) Government Transparency

a. If a member of the community asks a question, we answer them to the fullest.

b. I’d like a weekly video of the mayor report recapping what’s happening each week.

c. Have a positive experience at city hall and staff.

Communication is key-people may not interoperate your ideas or strategy like you do. Open communication and an open mind is part of working as a team. Making the community feel welcome and that their concerns are important. The council works for the residents.

The council should take every concern to heart. If a resident takes the time to write an email or speak at a meeting, that shows me, they are deeply concerned about the issue. Having written emails to the entire council and having a council member reply all, and tell the other members Do Not Reply doesn’t substantiate any confidences in the current council.

Dan Lewis

My motivation stems from living Houston's rural lifestyle—its space for self-reliance, access to outdoors, and strong neighborly independence—and seeing the need for straightforward governance that supports it: simple, transparent decisions that cut bureaucracy, prioritize essentials like well-maintained roads and fiscal responsibility with taxpayer dollars, and empower residents without unnecessary regulations.

I'm prepared to bring fresh ideas to council. Houston voters should choose me for practical priorities: safe roads using current revenues; strong property rights; enhanced public safety and emergency readiness; and a council that listens through resident input and monthly progress reports. In a small town like ours, government should work for us, not against our independent spirit—let's build on Houston's homesteading roots and outdoor heritage for sustainable growth.

My wife and I chose Houston for the space and privacy we wanted, with enough room in our own yard and the kind of living that supports self-reliance. Outside of work, I spend my time hunting, fishing, flying paramotors, and training my black lab, Sami, embracing the outdoor life that defines our community.

Professionally, I work as a computer security consultant, helping organizations keep their systems secure and operational. Over the years, I've designed and built business solutions for higher education, financial services, banking, nonprofits, and state agencies, often taking scattered information and turning it into clear, workable solutions. I served in the U.S. Army as a linguist and electronics specialist, where I learned discipline, teamwork, and leadership.

This has prepared me to address Houston's issues, policies, and budgets by applying analytical skills to sort through complex data—like reviewing budgets to cut waste and seek grants for infrastructure without raising taxes. My consulting experience equips me to handle policies on roads (prioritizing maintenance with existing revenues) and illegal dumping (enforcing codes fairly through partnerships, such as resident-led cleanups with local organizations like community groups or environmental nonprofits). My experience prepares me to oversee administrative appointments and engage the community transparently, ensuring policies like road safety and fiscal responsibility reflect Houston’s rural values.

Houston's top issues are road maintenance, fiscal responsibility, and illegal dumping.

- Roads: Rough surfaces, potholes, and poor winter maintenance threaten safety. I’ll use current revenues to prioritize grading and plowing, following the 5-year plan’s focus on density and condition, with monthly progress updates.

- Fiscal responsibility: Limited funds require efficiency. I’ll cut waste, seek grants, and avoid new taxes until existing revenue is maximized for essentials like roads.

- Illegal dumping: Trash at Bear Paw and Zero Lakes harms health and pride. I’ll enforce codes with stricter penalties, add cameras, and support resident cleanups with local groups.

Disagreement drives productive government. My plan:

Listen respectfully to residents and council members, focusing on facts to find common ground - good people share values and can work toward solutions.

Encourage resident input at meetings and through listening sessions to inform decisions.

Support straightforward council actions on priorities like budgets and infrastructure, with proactive transparency to build trust in our small community.

To ensure fair representation in Houston:

Share a monthly newsletter with my views on council work, inviting feedback.

Encourage input at meetings, easing burden with direct outreach.

Commit to unbiased decisions for all voices, ensuring no favoritism - stepping aside if personal interests conflict.

City of Wasilla

Alina Rubeo

I am a lifelong resident and proud second-generation local of Wasilla. My deep commitment to our community is shared with my husband, Mike, and our four incredible children—Blaze and Storm, who are in high school, Ice in middle school, and Rain in elementary school—alongside our beloved dog, Breeze. Since 2019, I have dedicated myself to public service, starting as a Planning Commissioner and advancing to City Council Member in 2022. Most recently, I had the honor of being appointed Deputy Mayor by Mayor Ledford in November 2023. My motivation to run for office is deeply rooted in my desire to create a thriving environment for families and businesses, inspired by my own experiences growing up here. I am dedicated to fostering community well-being and ensuring that the voices of our residents are prioritized in all decision-making processes.

My commitment to Wasilla is not only a product of my public service but also enhanced by the genuine friendships and relationships I have built within the community. As a business owner since 2007, I have gained valuable insights into the local economy and the challenges our businesses face. My passion for Wasilla drives my involvement in coaching youth sports and teaching preschoolers since 2015, allowing me to connect with families and understand diverse perspectives. I am dedicated to the responsible use of tax dollars, focusing on the maintenance, repair, and expansion of essential water, sewer, and community wellness services, which are vital to our residents' quality of life.

Our community faces significant challenges, including aging infrastructure, congested roads, and the need for enhanced community wellness services, stemming from growth and inadequate maintenance plans. When elected, I will advocate vigorously for these issues, championing local businesses to stimulate growth and improve community wellness. By fostering partnerships and securing necessary resources, I aim to implement effective solutions that enhance the quality of life for all residents of Wasilla.

Collaboration is essential for effective governance. I plan to actively engage with fellow council members and community leaders, focusing on shared goals and fostering open communication. By developing initiatives that genuinely reflect the needs and desires of our citizens, we can work together to strengthen Wasilla. My approach will be inclusive, ensuring that all voices are heard as we collectively strive for a thriving community.

I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every resident feels that their voice matters. By encouraging participation in local initiatives and actively seeking diverse perspectives in decision-making processes, I aim to create a sense of belonging and representation for all community members. Together, we can ensure that every part of Wasilla is heard and valued in our collective journey forward.

Mark Schmidt

I am running for Wasilla City Council to better Wasilla. I want the best for Wasilla and the community. I feel I can be instrumental in improving our city ordinances making Wasilla a better place to live, run businesses and raise families.

I have lived in Wasilla since moving to Alaska over 20 years ago. Raising my family here in this community drives me to keep Wasilla running strong. I was raised in a small town somewhat like Wasilla and graduated College of Southern Idaho with high honors. I manage Kendall Ford of Wasilla service department and have been there about 17 years. My experience there has taught me how to manage people and make smart financial decisions.

I was raised with strong Christian values and will bring this everywhere I go. I am a conservative republican that loves all Alaska offers. Like many of you I share the love of hunting and fishing and raising my family in a safe community.

Some of the concerns for Wasilla are improving our water and sewer facilities including expanding our water treatment facility. We also need to make improvements on our city parks to keep our children of the community safe. Recently passing new work contracts for our police officers will bring strong candidates to fill our cities shortage of officers.

I am currently filling a spot on the Council vacated by Mr. Johnson who was unfortunately faced with some medical issues that, thankfully, he was successful getting though and will be rejoining the Council this fall. When appointed late spring I hit the ground running and jumped right in on approving the budget. Then we tackled phase 1 of revisions to Title 16.

After being elected I will continue to serve the city making smart sensible decisions to make Wasilla the best city to live, run businesses and raise families in.

City of Palmer

John Alcantra

After serving on the City Council for three years I was asked by several friends and neighbors if I would consider running for Mayor to provide experienced, ethical leadership for Palmer. My wife Rosetta and I have raised our family here, and now with only one child at home, we feel I have the time to commit to this expanded leadership position.

I am currently employed as the Outreach Coordinator for the Don Young Alaska Job Corps Center in Palmer. I have held this position for seven years, but I have a diverse background including 12 years as a government relations director, a decade in emergency management and time as a project manager and financial advisor. I have a lifetime of experience and network to offer my hometown of Palmer.

My three years on City Council has given me insight to Palmer’s healthy financial condition and to the budget processes.

Completing the Library, Infrastructure needs (roads) and restoring public confidence in the city of Palmer.

I will continue to look for necessary resources at every level to complete our needed projects. I will listen to constituents And fellow council members and always return phone calls and emails

By communicating rapidly, repetitively and positively with all members of council. No favorites and no silo building. Listen and discuss the future always.

I will have dedicated time to listen and meet with constituents outside of the regularly scheduled council meetings. People know me and they know they will always receive an answer and my best effort in solving their issue.

Sherry Carrington

I love Palmer. I think it is a truly unique community. I would love to have an opportunity to be a part of holding on to our heritage and history that are important to our community’s foundation and its story.

I also see there has to be growth in every community that wants to thrive, and ensure our children and grandchildren's story is strong, full of opportunities and adventure.

I have raised 4 children in Alaska. I've owned and operated 2 businesses doing custom sewing, dressmaking, and alterations.

Moving to Palmer in 2003 after getting married, I started a small business, custom sewing dressmaking and alterations and offered sewing instruction, lessons and sewing camps.

In 2014, I was co-founder and worked as ED for a nonprofit Connect Palmer, working with individuals and families providing practical needs assistance. I retired May 2024.

My top priority is bringing our community together. We are truly a diverse community with very different ideals and opinions. Like everyone, I have opinions and concerns, some ideas on what I think is the best way to address them. I also have the desire and will strive to communicate with community in mind.

I know there will be those who see these concerns and solutions differently, but they’re an important part of our community, not an enemy needing to be vanquished, but listened to, communicated with and respected. It doesn't mean I'll change my ideals, but I can choose to value yours and be respectful and civil.

There's a lot of great things going on in our community. The job the City Council has been voted in to do is important, and how we do the work of the city and how we treat people in the process of doing that work is equally important.

Palmer is indeed a unique community. But we have struggled, like the rest of world, on how communicate with respect and civility. When there are disagreements that we feel passionate about, it is easy to allow emotions and personality differences to become a driving force. I’ve had some personal experience with this topic. It is easy to put professionalism and respect in the back seat, but we must keep respect and civility at the forefront.

The ethics code for the city states that council should be respectful and civil. They "should conduct deliberations with civility and refrain from abusive conduct, personal charges or verbal attacks upon the character or motives of other council." Communications on all platforms would serve better if it reflected the respect and civility we would like to be shown.

Our best is to engage one another with respect and quickly resolve any personal offenses that effect our ability to serve our community well.

Communication is so important. I think it is so unfortunate we have replaced many human interactions with an app or relying heavily on social media for information, much of what is found there is often misleading, only partial truths, or complete fantasy.

Reach out to people you may have questions for or concerns about. Show up at the meetings, reach out to the council members. Our public process for doing business allows for community input, I believe all the council members what to hear what the community has to say.

Alison Collins

I am running for City Council because I care about the community of Palmer and want to see our city working together in a spirit of cooperation to preserve those things about the community that we love, and to plan for the future of Palmer in a way that will continue to make Palmer a delight for residents and visitors. As a Council Member, Palmer residents can count on me to maintain a level head, to consider difficult issues thoughtfully and rationally, and to work respectfully with City Council members, Palmer residents, and city employees.

I am a long-time Palmer resident with a love for the Palmer community. I enjoyed growing up in Palmer. I graduated from Palmer High School, left Alaska for college and law school, and then returned to Alaska for work and have been here ever since. I have chosen to raise my own family in Palmer because of the unique experiences and opportunities this community provides. I have worked as an Assistant District Attorney for the State of Alaska. I have also worked for the State of Alaska as a contract mediator. I am currently working as an attorney for Dalrymple Law, P.C. in Palmer. To pay my way through college and law school, I worked as a Wildland Firefighter, track laborer for the Alaska Railroad Corporation, food server, Alaska State Troopers intern, property manager, cashier, swim instructor, Washington D.C. intern, legal research assistant and law school teaching assistant.

One of my top priorities is getting the new Palmer Public Library built as soon as possible. I will assist in accomplishing this goal by encouraging the Council to act quickly and decisively on any additional items related to the building of the library that require a Council vote. Another of my top priorities is to work with Council partners in creating a plan for our city that accommodates the growth occurring in and around Palmer, while preserving the qualities that make Palmer a unique community. Finally, I will advocate within the City Council for local government and leadership to work cooperatively and respectfully together to accomplish those things Palmer residents expect us to be able to accomplish as their representatives.

I value and practice a civil and respectful exchange of ideas. As a mediator, I learned to become comfortable sitting with conflict and became skilled at being able to see through conflicts to identify common values and goals. By identifying common values and goals, agreement can frequently be reached on challenging issues. I will bring these skills with me to City Council and will be committed to working with other members of the Council, as well as the public, to achieve our shared goals.

I will listen to and consider ideas for Palmer’s growth and development regardless of where those ideas come from. When it comes to decision making for Palmer, my only interest is in adding to the good that already exists here. I am not driven by a particular political agenda or affiliation with any other group.

Jim Cooper

The City needs positive leadership. The Council has been reactive and not proactive. We need to reestablish the people's trust and confidence. Being a current Councilman and former Mayor, I bring the experience and leadership required to “right the ship”, get us on the right course and move the City forward.

Over 35 years of being a public servant, 26 years in the Coast Guard and 9+ years in Community service: past president Palmer Chamber, past president Alaska Municipal League, past Planning and Zoning Commissioner, past (and current) Councilman, former Palmer Mayor and former small business owner. I have a Master's Degree in governmental finance, have lived in Palmer 30 years and am very familiar with city issues and budgets.

1) We have to regain the trust and confidence of the people. Our council has been reactive for too long. 2) Need to establish a list of one/three/five year projects so the Council and City Manager can focus on moving the City forward and 3) Annexation, to protect the downtown core area and residents, annexation is required. It provides for rules/regulations/zoning and reduces fire service area and road service area fees.

To accomplish #1, the Council needs to work together, put aside personal, religious, political biases -focus on #2. We may disagree on items/issues but listening to all sides and taking in the differences of opinions before making a decision is crucial. Annexation is a process which requires some thought but we need to move quickly on that as it can be a time consuming process.

The Council will not always agree on every issue - the key component in accomplishing goals is listen to the thoughts/viewpoints of everyone and combine that with yours before making a decision. The community, including the business community, needs to be heard as well. I propose a monthly meeting with the business owners to understand the issues facing them. There also needs to be an opportunity for the community to be heard -open door policy, meeting with people, interacting at events are but a few of the ways to listen to their concerns.

Again, meeting with the business owners, going to community events, listening to and responding to phone calls, emails – just be available. Having a weekly or bi-weekly “coffee klatch” where community members can come and express opinions or concerns and listen to the latest information from the Mayor.

Cachet Garrett

I’m running for Mayor because I know that I am Chosen, called to lead at high levels, called into “Politics” not as a politician, but as an empowered and emboldened leader for the People; homegrown and in pursuit of self-mastery as well as the excellence of others. I exist simply to uplift humankind, beginning with making a local impact through a revolution of love and compassionate leadership. I’m a master communicator and will initiate the conversations needed in organized forums.

With a focus on healing and unification, I will invoke change in the environment towards health and wholeness, vibrancy and thriving, and love and healing. With a passion and a boldness that characterizes the best of leadership, I understand in my bones what the people need right now--a leader who seeks to uplift, inspire, encourage, and ensure that Palmer’s meeting their needs.

I’m committed to the study of Human Communication and human behavior, and have grown an open-mind through lifelong learning, world travel, and the pursuit of self-mastery and the empowerment of others. It has been a journey of pressing in, fine-tuning my abilities as a servant-leader, and growing my understanding of the laws of nature, the universal laws, and God’s law.

The top three issues include:

1. Rapidly incoming financial changes in how things are structured municipally. Federal cuts will trickle down very quickly, ensuring financial chaos if we don’t plan. Palmer’s financial future is precarious at present and it’s time to gather a crew of expertly qualified people to research and advise how to prepare rather than reactively responding with little empowerment.

2. Community morale—people are discouraged at the political environment in Palmer, and it’s extended to the businesses. “Politics” has become a dirty word and needs to be reframed as “our very lives.” I seek to embolden our community to come out of offense at and apathy to “politics” and come into a place of advocacy over our lives and to participate in the public processes.

3. Much needed infrastructure updates. These issues are easy to address. I don’t understand the delinquency in the rectification of our street issues, but will tackle it immediately for the safety of our community.

I plan to work collaboratively with the Council and community to get things done through full and robust implementation of my skills as a facilitator and director with widespread dialogue in a way that has not been done before.

“A team that plays together stays together.” I plan to bring humor and play into the Council. I respect them all, but enough already. The younger members of the Council need open hearts and mentorship in how to be the best leaders they can be from the older members of the Council. I also believe that a team that prays together stays together. I’d like the council members to see each other always as fellow humans first, as neighbors and friends, not enemies.

To ensure all our fairly, adequately represented: LOVE them, go to them, hear them with the ears of my heart, see them through eyes of compassion, and work to develop them and encourage them in their greatness. Remain an unaffiliated, non-partisan leader leading with loving-kindness, with empathy and genuine care about the hearts, minds, and bodies—the holistic health—of the people I serve.

Carolina Graver

I am running for the same reason I was appointed to the council in January 2021- to amplify the voices of my constituents and ensure government transparency and prosperity. Local policies determine our day-to-day lives, not to mention the effect they have downstream and at a national level. I come with valuable experience, renewed energy, focus on public safety and excellence in communication among the council, city staff, and constituents, and to bring unity and community back to citizens and businesses.

I grew up in Wasilla, have lived in Palmer for ten years, and been on the council for almost 4 years, and am currently one of the longest-standing councilmembers. I grew up working at my family's Italian deli/market, have worked and managed various family-owned businesses here over the years, and currently own and run a small business with my husband. I’ve seen the changes that growth brings - the good, the bad, and the ugly - in our state, and committed to keeping Palmer the best and safest place in Alaska.

1. Growth. Palmer is experiencing growing pains. The conflict of growth/expansion vs. tradition/nostalgia doesn't have to end by ditching one in pursuit of the other. Thoughtful input from citizens, businesses, and visitors will keep tradition alive and thriving, while open to change and expansion. I support thoughtful annexing new land into the city, with appropriate community input to manage that growth well and enhance our city services.

2. Uninformed and uninvolved citizens. If you’re a registered voter inside the city limits, it’s your responsibility and privilege to vote, be informed, and involved! Only 7% of registered voters participated in last year's election. Social media posts may reach many, but showing up to a meeting speaks volumes to officials.

3. Third, public safety. I've traveled the world enough to know that Palmer is a wonderful place to live. At the same time, it is far too easy to take that for granted and things can take a turn for the worse quickly. From safe streets to disaster preparation and supporting our first responders, I have and will continue to prioritize legislation and code updates that improve quality of life and safety.

I have been able to work with city staff and members of our community on the design process for the new library as well as other projects within the city.

I do my best to keep an open mind, take opposing thoughts into consideration, and look at the facts instead of letting emotional arguments cloud my judgement. Disagreements must be handled in a healthy and productive manner. Keeping cool behind the dais as well as behind the keyboard is a must. I’m not afraid to share my thoughts and preferences on an issue, but won’t resort to personal attacks or inappropriate comments to make a point. Ultimately, the council should be able to work together and remain professional even through intense disagreement, remaining cordial both during and after discussion.

I would love to increase voter turnout. I encourage citizens of Palmer as well as the greater Palmer area to attend or watch our council meetings to remain informed and make their voices heard. My email and phone number are available to anyone who has a question, comment, or complaint.

Joshua Tudor

I want the city that I love grow and be a better place. I started serving on Planning and Zoning and moved into City Council, so I have a long history of service to Palmer. I’ve lived here for 18 years and had a business here for 12. I want my children to see Palmer the same way I do, as a vibrant, welcoming, growing city in Alaska. We live in the most beautiful place on earth and I want to help showcase that to the world. I want Palmer to be place where people can buy a house, raise a family, and have good paying jobs.

I run a small business in downtown Palmer and an MBA which has helped a lot in dealing with complex issues. The best approach is to look at things from an analytical approach. Finding the facts and seeing what the actual data shows. My history of strategic planning and leadership, and having been president of various nonprofits and businesses has helped with that. The best thing is to have a plan, work towards those goals, and adjust the plan as needed as the environment changes.

The top issue is we need to update our comprehensive plan and focus on growing Palmer. We need a strategic vision for the future that we can work together to achieve. Updating the plan, working with the MSB and the State will lead to more success with getting the support we need to GROW.

Another issue is lack of city council training. I successfully got council member training done this year and believe this needs to be done annually. We’ve had members make mistakes, accuse each other of violating the Open Meetings Act, and not understand the code of ethics. We cannot expect new members to know how to do their job without training.

Another issue is growing the number of affordable housing and number of businesses to provide good paying jobs. We need to ensure that we are attracting affordable housing for young families who will call Palmer home and that the city is the best place to live in Alaska.

I always work to be a uniter; when it comes to votes on difficult issues, sometimes I align with certain members, and sometimes it’s with others. It all depends on the issue. We need council to focus on what’s best for the city. I believe in community working together to make Palmer better, and city government can work more closely with volunteer organizations to better support community events and instill a sense of community pride in Palmer.

We need to expand our city’s social media presence to keep residents informed on what’s happening. I don’t like hearing that a big vote happened at city council but people had little to no knowledge of it. I want to ensure that people who come to our meetings feel welcomed and represented. As Mayor, I will attend more groups and give updates on what the city is doing and encourage civic engagement. I also want to ensure that our city website is easy to follow and use. Not a lot of people go to meetings, so we need to go to them through community outreach, using social media, and the city website to go to them.