There are several local city council races in the upcoming primary election. With so many candidates to go through, The Daily World sent questionnaires to those in races with three or more candidates to help voters make a decision on Aug. 3.
Hoquiam’s Ward 4, Position 7 election features three candidates: Incumbent Greg Grun and challengers Joseph Marchie and Jamie Brand. Here are theirresponses in the order they were received.
Joseph Marchie
Biography
Born and raised in Hoquiam, I am a 1998 graduate of Hoquiam High School. My first job after graduation was summer help for the city of Hoquiam Street Department. I then spent two years in the Americorps program with the city of Hoquiam. In December 2000 I enlisted in the Marine Corps. I deployed four times overseas in support of Iraq and Afghanistan. I finally left the Marines in February 2014 to go to school and to pursue my passion of martial arts, primarily Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I received my black belt in 2018 and opened my Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in neighboring Aberdeen.
Why did you decide to run this year?
I didn’t want to be another talking head on social media. I could’ve sat back and complained without any action, but I want to work with the community and learn how this town operates.
What is the number one issue facing Hoquiam in the immediate future, and how would you tackle that issue?
I feel like our utility rates are creating a barrier for entry into our great city. People do not want to be bothered with the size of that bill and they will start to leave. The rates are set to go up yearly for the next four years.
The city is currently involved in developing a downtown revitalization plan. What do you feel should be a priority within that plan?
I am extremely excited about this! I would like to see a lower speed limit through downtown as we try to increase the amount of foot traffic for our small businesses.
Greg Grun
Biography
I have resided in Hoquiam for all of my 67 years. I graduated from Hoquiam High School, Grays Harbor College, and the Washington State University School of Pharmacy. As a pharmacy student I interned at Crown Drug. After graduation from the School of Pharmacy, I became an owner of Crown Drug and operated the store for 40 years, which closed in 2020. I am currently employed as a pharmacist at Grays Harbor Community Hospital.
Why did you decide to run this year?
As a current Hoquiam City Councilman, I want to be reelected so I can continue working on the projects that I have been a part of; for example, the building of levees that will prevent flooding in Hoquiam and Aberdeen, which when completed will eliminate the need for flood insurance for the city’s citizens.
What is the number one issue facing Hoquiam in the immediate future, and how would you tackle that issue?
I feel an important issue facing Hoquiam is mental health and substance abuse. The city is on the right track by recently hiring and funding a mental health navigator who immediately connects individuals with community resources. As a councilman, I support this step and would help with the development of further programs, resources and staff to address this issue.
The city is currently involved in developing a downtown revitalization plan. What do you feel should be a priority within that plan?
I think the development of the waterfront should be the main priority of the downtown revitalization.
The Hoquiam Beautification Team (HBT) with its many volunteers has already begun improvement of the waterfront and surrounding streets with potted flowers, hanging baskets, and seasonal decor.
Ideas and support from HBT’s volunteers and other citizens could be a huge asset to the revitalization’s success.
Jamie Brand
Biography
Before my family and I moved here in 2006, I was medically retired from the U.S. Army, and I was the head of the family volunteer program for one of my husband’s Marine Corps units. I then helped build the family volunteer program for two National Guard units, while my husband was deployed to Iraq. I graduated from Grays Harbor College in 2011. I have worked at the 7th Street Theatre since 2008. I now own The Grill Sergeant in downtown Hoquiam, a proud veteran /woman-owned business. Currently in my spare time I am on the Aberdeen Museum Board as I wish to see this historic landmark with all of its stories to be preserved for our future generations.
Why did you decide to run this year?
I want to contribute to our city on a larger scale more than just than just my small corner. I have been involved with local politics and attending council meetings for years and felt the time had come for my voice to be heard on a wider scale. I love the area and want it to be something everyone can call home and be “Hoqu-I-Am proud.”
What is the number one issue facing Hoquiam in the immediate future, and how would you tackle that issue?
Lack of parking. I watch businesses every day park in front of another business to leave parking open in front of their place. A parking structure on the one lot the city owns would help all of the businesses in the area.
The city is currently involved in developing a downtown revitalization plan. What do you feel should be a priority within that plan?
Utilizing the buildings that are currently empty or only partially occupied. Fix and repair the structures we have before worrying about adding new buildings.
