A look at Auburn mayoral candidate John T. Partridge

Work experience: Eighteen years as a small business owner: Partridge Insurance Agency.

Education: Auburn Senior High School, 1982; Multnomah Bible College, bachelor of science, 1997

Political experience: Auburn City Councilmember – Elected Jan. 1, 2010; Regional Law Safety Justice Committee – member since 2010 (chair 2013); National League of Cities Public Safety Crime Prevention – member since 2011

Community Service: Auburn Fire and Police – Chaplain 1997-2004; Auburn Noon Lions Club – member 2002-2012 (Past President); Auburn High School PTSA – Founders Award and Charter Treasurer; Washington Elementary PTSA – member Backstretch Chapel – board memberSons of Italy Lodge #1955 – member

Q & A

Q. Why are you running for this office?

A. We are standing at a key moment in the future of our city, a moment that calls for responsive leadership willing to listen to and serve the community. Four years ago, I was elected to the council. While I served, I learned the business of the city, brought fresh perspectives and gained understanding of its needs. I am ready and want to give Auburn the best third of my working career as your mayor.

Q. What are the top three problems facing the City of Auburn?

A. 1. Safety of our families and community

2. Securing funding for roads and walkways

3. Making sure your voice is heard

Q. And how are your abilities a good match for those problems?

A. In addition to my education and public service experience, I am a successful small business owner in the private sector. That role requires the ability to manage, serve, market, lead and ultimately produce results. To meet today’s challenges, we need a courageous, independent, innovative leader that is transparent, accountable, and trustworthy. This is what I will bring as mayor.

Q. What sets you apart from your opponents?

A. Entrenched leadership tends to rely on itself, it supports and defends decisions made in the past, forgets who they are here to serve, and resists change. As mayor, I believe my experience and fresh perspective will better serve the interests of the people of Auburn. I will listen to our citizens, council members and staff and make city government empower Auburn to succeed.

As a city councilmember, I demonstrated integrity and courage bringing fresh perspectives, accountability and balance to city government. After listening to the public and weighing all the facts, I stood alone and voted to maintain our local municipal court. When faced with sizable increases for diminished animal control services from King County, I led the effort to forge partnerships creating the Auburn Valley Humane Society. The result was better services, reduced costs, job creation and a premium animal shelter. I envision Auburn continuing to emerge as a destination for families and businesses. A vote for me is a vote for a better future for our community and its children. I am endorsed by your Valley Professional Fire Fighters.