Thursday, October 2, 2008

Candidates Spar Over Issues

A lively debate was held between the candidates for Pierce County Executive. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber hosted the four candidates -- Pierce County Council Member Shawn Bunney, Pierce County Council Member Calvin Goings, Tacoma City Council Member Mike Lonergan and Pierce County Auditor Pat McCarthy -- for a 90 minute debate concerning business issues.

Moderated by Mike Weinman, the candidates were asked about broader county issues, like transportation and the budget, as well as the Business Climate Agenda. The audience, comprised of more than 100 business leaders, heard the candidates discuss the need for completing SR 167 and the Cross Base Highway. All agreed Pierce County needs to ensure it receives its fair share of regional funding.

On the issue of the Business Climate Agenda, the candidates spoke about maintaining no-net loss of industrial lands, protecting the military installations against encroachment and enhancing tourism.

Some of the quotes heard from the candidates during the debate:

"[Under my leadership], Pierce County will be a model of open government, a model of accountability and a model for a healthy community." - Council Member Bunney

"We need leadership with vision to look beyond the horizon into the tomorrow." - Council Member Goings

"For me, it's about people, not things." - Council Member Lonergan

"People make promises, I believe in making a difference." - Auditor McCarthy

No comments:

Post a Comment