Kenai City Counci

I have served on the city council for the last 12 years and have a strong background in local issues having lived here for 22 years. I am the proud father of two Kenai High School graduates and currently have a freshman at the high school. I am a Certified Public Accountant and commercial fish in Cook Inlet with my kids every summer.

The issue that I feel is most important to the City of Kenai in the next three years is that of the Kenai River. The Kenai River has been very good to the City of Kenai. Years ago, the Kenai River Special Management Area was created. This put a large section of the Kenai River and adjacent land under the jurisdiction of the Division of Natural Resources.

The City of Kenai fought hard to be excluded from this area; the reason being that we, the city, were best qualified to take care of the river that runs through our city. As a compromise, the section below the Warren Ames Bridge was excluded from the Management Area.

Since that time, we have seen things happen both inside and outside the Management Area that directly impact the City of Kenai. Increased number of boats on the river, dipnet fishery, hydrocarbons and Mother Nature have all caused the city and residents of the city to react. We have not been able to react positively.

While given the responsibility of taking care of the river below the Warren Ames Bridge, the city finds itself with limited tools to address the problems and issues that come before us. We have looked at zoning changes and new ordinances in an attempt to react to the issues before us. It is a complicated situation we find ourselves in.

I believe it is imperative that the City of Kenai take the lead in promoting both the health of the Kenai River and ensuring that the local residents have quality access to the river. I do not agree with state mandated fisheries and regulations which result in the displacement of local residents

The City of Kenai is here because of the Kenai River. The local native tribes knew a good thing when they settled here hundreds of years ago. Quality of life is why people stay here.

Other industries play a vital role in the city's economic health, and keeping the Kenai River healthy and accessible will be good for all.

If re-elected, I will continue to work for the City of Kenai. The city and its residents come first.

I would appreciate your vote.