Elections Database
Lakewood council position 2« Go back
Mike Brandstetter
Residence: Lakewood
Contact: 253-589-3055
E-mail: mbrandstetter@comcast.net
Occupation: Dean, Bates Technical College

Experience: TACID Board of Directors Since 2007 Tillicum American Lake Gardens Community Service Center Board of Directors 1999-2003 Toy Rescue Mission Board of Directors 2003-2005 Intercollege Relations Commission, Since 2003, Chair 2008-09 Council for Basic Skills Since 2005 Lakewood First Lions Club Since 1999

Education: MA, Organizational Leadership, Chapman University, 2007 BS, Business and Management, University of Maryland University College, 1988

Lakewood voters rejected a proposed ban on minicasinos last November, but the city has said it wants to wean itself off gambling tax revenue. Do you agree and if so, how would you do it?
In the long term, gambling is not consistent with the vision, or reality, of a liveable community. We should set a phase-out date four or five years in the future and begin incremental budget adjustments (less than 1% annually)to set aside gambling revenue. These set aside funds can be used to spread the fiscal impact over eight to ten years. This is viable as other general fund revenues will grow as our local economy recovers.

Tillicum is one of the city's most economically depressed neighborhoods, yet the city says it has untapped potential for redevelopment. Do you agree and if so, how would you suggest Tillicum be redeveloped?
Tillicum's good people, location, and infrastructure improvements present great potential for economic growth. Development priorities should be: Bringing services such as financial institutions, pharmacy, grocery and medical providers to this neighborhood; Assisting existing businesses to modernize and expand; Promoting construction of new affordable housing (We do not want to displace residents out of the community for the sake of redevelopment); and Attracting new businesses committed to being long-term community partners in the broadest sense.

Lakewood police reached a milestone with the opening of its new station last year. What should the police department's goals be moving forward?
It is imperative for the police department to sustain its high level of professionalism and community service. Becoming accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies should be a priority and standard. Proactive enforcement to counteract gang activity and involvement with community-based gang prevention programs should also be a departmental priority. We should continue to focus on police-community partnerships and communication to build mutual respect, enhance enforcement activities,and strengthen crime prevention efforts.

Personal Statement:
Respectful partnerships make strong communities. I will engage the community, listen, colloborate, and use my integrity, energy and experience developed as a soldier and educator to build them and make informed decisions. City government should focus equally on liveability and safety of our neighborhoods, viability of small businesses, and compatable new economic development. This vision prompted us to incorporate 13 years ago. I have that vision as a compass. I hope you share it.

Connie Coleman Lacadie
Residence: Lakewood
Contact: 253-906-1346
E-mail: cjlacadie@aol.com
Website: www.Vote4Connie.com

Experience: Clover Park School Board Director 1997-2009; Museum of Flight Education Leaders Advisory Board 2001-present; Lakewood City Sisters Association 2001-present; Lakewood Boys & Girls Club Advisory Board 2009-present; Lakewood YMCA Advisory Board 5yrs; OSPI SPED Advisory Council 2yrs; PTSA 1991-1997; Member of Lakewood First Lions, Dotha McCormick Guild, Civil Air Patrol, Women in Aviation; Volunteer at St. John Bosco

Education: Working on Associates degree

Lakewood voters rejected a proposed ban on minicasinos last November, but the city has said it wants to wean itself off gambling tax revenue. Do you agree and if so, how would you do it?
I think Lakewood City Council needs to focus on economic development. Retaining our existing businesses and finding innovative ways to attract new businesses will increase the city's tax revenues.

Tillicum is one of the city's most economically depressed neighborhoods, yet the city says it has untapped potential for redevelopment. Do you agree and if so, how would you suggest Tillicum be redeveloped?
Yes, I agree. Tillicum was long overdue for sewers. That project is now underway. I endorse the Tillicum Neighborhood Plan, as well as the master plan being developed with the Port of Tacoma for the industrial area of Woodbrook. These plans outline next steps for economic development, improved neighborhoods, and transportation issues that will improve and enhance this area.

Lakewood police reached a milestone with the opening of its new station last year. What should the police department's goals be moving forward?
Their first and foremost goal is to keep our city and our citizens safe. They have incorporated a new gang unit that is tackling that issue and getting results. As a candidate for City Council, I am committed to providing sufficient numbers of police on the street to ensure our city is safe and sufficient resources to ensure they are well trained and well fitted for the job we ask them to do 24/7.

Personal Statement:
I have the experience required to govern efficiently. I am committed to keeping our citizens at the forefront of any issue that comes before the council on public safety, economic development, education, transportation or other issues. I have the leadership skills and knowledge of our community to go to work immediately to help make Lakewood an even better community. I want to be a strong voice for our citizens.