 Candidate For Ketchikan City Council 3-year term seat - Three seats open Published:
Name: Steve Williams Candidate For: City Council E-Mail Address: stevewilliams@kpunet.net About Yourself - Background: I am a life-long resident of Ketchikan. I have made our town a priority by working with local groups and coaching kids. I am a proud member of KRBD and have been on the board of our outstanding public radio station, and have been known to do a radio show or two. I have been cast in First City Player's productions, I have served on the Arts Council Board, the Ketchikan Visitor's Bureau board on two separated occasions. I have coach Special Olympics and youth basketball. I am the Roastmaster/Operations Manager for Raven's Brew Coffee. I know about coffee! My grandfather was Joe Williams, Sr., mayor of Saxman, and a community leader in his day. My father is Representative Bill Williams.
State at least 3 reasons why you are seeking a seat on this elected body. I am looking forward to finishing the work the council I have served with has started. For instance, I have been to Swan Lake and have seen the clearing which the Swan Lake-Tyee Lake intertie will be built. Ketchikan and all of Southeast Alaska needs clean, reliable electric power to grow and prosper.
Being 37 years old makes me the baby on the current city council, and I believe I have, and will continue to be a strong voice for young families in Ketchikan. Ketchikan has been very good to me. I know it sounds old-fashioned, but I want to give back to a community which has given me great opportunity.
Why should the voters elect or re-elect you? I believe I have done a good job for the people of Ketchikan on the City Council for the last three years. I have proven myself to be a good listener who will make the best decision based on information provided.
List local, regional and/or state-wide issues that you believe are a high priority and state your position on each. Ketchikan and all of Southeast Alaska needs clean, reliable electric power to grow and prosper. We need to make sure the Swan Lake-Tyee Lake intertie is completed. We need a new library. Judith Anglin and her staff have done a great job with what they have to work with, but it is crowded and does not offer appropriate space for meetings, workshops and books. We need a new library!
General Questions:
How do you determine your position on an issue? When I was elected to the council three years ago my father, Bill Williams, gave me the best advice. He said, "Steve, congratulations, you are a Ketchikan City Council member. Remember this when you are sitting in that chair, you are representing the people who elected you. Before you vote on a issue, no matter how big or small, get all the information you can. Ask your staff for their recommendation. Ask around. But before your vote, the question you have to ask is, what is in the best interest of the people I represent? Do not use your seat to forward your personal agenda, but always do what you think is best for Ketchikan, not what is in your best interest or easy." It is advice that has served me well over the last three years.
What would compel you to change your position? A well reasoned position, backed up with proven facts.
If a dozen people speak at a public meeting on a controversial agenda item with the majority of the speakers opposed and the minority for, how would this impact your ability to form a decision on what is best for the community? I was elected three years ago to make decisions for the people of our community. I have and will continue consider all relevant facts and testimony and will do what I believe is right for the people of Ketchikan.
Where would you most likely obtain more information on agenda items? I take staff recommendations. But I also listen to my fellow council members and I will often ask people who have a interest in the specific item.
Who would you most likely talk to prior to making a decision that affects the entire community? I listen to any one who has a position on the issue at hand. I often will speak with my friends and family about "tough issues."
How would you deal with people whose views oppose your beliefs who want to talk to you about an agenda item or issue? No differently than anyone else! I believe an elected official's first job is to listen to their constituents.
In a public meeting discussion, what would you likely do? I listen to other positions. I consider new information and will adapt my position accordingly.
How do others view you? I am patient. I take time to be interested in their concerns. I am reasonable and am confident in decisions I make.
Comments - Statement: I have enjoyed serving on the
Ketchikan City Council for the last three years, and I will continue
to be a positive voice on the council. I believe in community
involvement. I invest my time and money into causes/organizations
I believe in. I believe in Ketchikan. I am asking you to believe
in me. Become involved! Vote for the candidates of your choice
on October 1st.
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