Jay Patrick

As a 24-year former city councilor, and now as an observer from the outside, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of a crucial reality: the voice of the people is invaluable! Unfortunately, this voice does not seem to be heard unless a topic fills the council chambers multiple times. The concerns of the citizens seem too often delegated to the city manager, where those concerns risk fading away.

My decision to run for city council is rooted in several key priorities that are essential for the future of Redmond.

Common-sense decision making: We must prioritize common-sense decision making that truly benefits the citizens of Redmond. Transparency, accountability and fiscal responsibility should be at the forefront of our city management. We need more community meetings where we can sit down with residents, listen, interact and collaboratively figure out solutions. Understanding why we are headed in a particular direction is critical — even if we don’t always agree, we must strive to understand one another.

Public safety: Public safety is another major concern. We must protect our first responders as they work to safeguard our community. Additionally, Redmond must be a strong partner in the CORE3 project — a statewide training facility for first responders. This facility, a state-funded project planned for construction in Redmond, will fulfill a significant need for first responders across the state, particularly those east of the Cascades.

Long-term planning: Long-term planning is essential for the continued growth and success of Redmond. Several key projects need to be completed on time and within budget. The Wetlands Sewer Project is crucial for updating our sewer system, ensuring it serves us well into the future. We have outgrown our current police station, the new facility under construction will last for 30-plus years. Similarly, the expansion of our airport is vital for meeting Redmond’s needs as we look to the future. Completing these projects on time and within budget is critical for our city.

Strategic growth: Strategic growth is also a priority. In the Northwest part of our city, 700 homes are being built, yet there is no adequate infrastructure — such as adequate roads — to support this development. For example, 19th Street, which was never designed to handle such heavy traffic, is currently the only route for residents of these new homes to travel south to and through Redmond’s core. Additionally, the intersection of Highway 126 and 35th Street, where the new Parks and Recreation community center is being constructed, urgently needs a stoplight. This safety measure was discussed over two years ago during my time on the council and must be implemented before the center opens to ensure the safety of our community.

Finally, Redmond must embrace strategic growth. The phrase “affordable growth” often overlooks the reality that affordability is a significant challenge in today’s market. The 40 acres of land that the county generously gave to the city in northeast Redmond should be developed with a mix of housing options. We need to create housing that people can realistically afford, without relying on unsustainable government subsidies. Expecting a family of four with average Redmond wages to afford a $450,000 house is simply unrealistic. Instead, we need to focus on responsible, ethical, and safe growth strategies that benefit our entire community.

A request for your vote: I am asking for your vote to represent your interests in building our community. We need to steer Redmond in the right direction, ensuring we don’t lose our way in the challenges of the modern world. Together, we can follow an ethical, responsible and safe path that leads to a brighter future.

Vote for Jay Patrick.