Ben Winkelman

Occupation: Attorney and business owner

Relevant experience: Since 2008, I represented Ward 4, serving on the Public Safety and Law, Regulatory, Public Utilities, and Watershed Committees. I have been council president for a number of those years. For 12 years, I focused on fixing our aging roads, water, and sewer systems. I worked to maintain our parks and support new beautification projects around the city and I increased support for our small and large businesses. In addition I have varied business experience owning and operating several different types of businesses and in my career as an attorney since 2003. I have formed and led several large organizations and non-profit organizations in leadership roles.

1. What solutions can you see that are feasible for the city to address homelessness in Hoquiam?

Ensuring the police department has enough available resources to make early and regular contact with homeless persons. For those who wish to receive help then make effort to match them to available resources. Those who do not wish to receive help, officers should have regular contact and ensure lawful behavior just like any other citizen.

2. BHP’s proposed potash facility, if the company chooses to construct at the Port of Grays Harbor, could bring a significant amount of one-time cash into the city through permit fees and construction tax revenue. What would you consider to be the best use of that money?

The one time revenue should be leveraged as matching funds to those state and federal grants that require matching funds and are critical elements of our comprehensive plan. Freight mobility and river crossing safety concerns for both train and vehicle crossing should be assessed and incorporated into a freight mobility project to reduce congestion and safety hazards imposed by the project.

3. A study is nearing completion on potential consolidation of fire services between Aberdeen and Hoquiam. What are your views on service consolidation, for fire and in other areas, such as the potential of contracting with Aberdeen for wastewater services?

I have a favorable opinion of consolidation of services where both financially feasible and where services will be enhanced rather than eliminated or dramatically reduced. For example — recontracting with Aberdeen for wastewater services would be a timely consideration as the City of Hoquaim assesses our wastewater treatment infrastructure. I look forward to receipt of the consolidation study regarding consolidation of fire services and the discussions likely to follow.