There are three candidates who have filed for Westport City Council Position 1: Dennis Hall, Brylie Jarnes and incumbent Melissa Huerta.
The Daily World sent a questionnaire for the candidates to fill out ahead of the Aug. 3 primary. Below are Hall’s and Jarnes’ replies; Huerta did not respond.
Dennis Hall
Biography
Hall and his wife Sally settled in Westport after both retired two years ago. They lived in Treasure Valley of Idaho/Oregon. Dennis retired from the Idaho Power Company, then worked for 20 years as a trainer/consultant training electricians and engineers in electrical safety and compliance issues. A Vietnam veteran, Dennis is the father of three and grandfather of four. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Idaho and earned emergency substitute teaching credentials for Ocosta Schools.
Why did you decide to run this year?
Because I want to become involved in my new community. I have a lot to offer with team building, problem solving, and listening and writing skills.
What is the number issue facing Westport in the immediate future, and how would you tackle that issue?
The most pressing issue I see with Westport for the foreseeable future is how to keep the quaint, village feeling that attracts visitors, responds to the needs of the citizens, and at the same time balances the needs of public and private users of Westport’s resources.
How do you feel about the possibility of a Scottish links-style golf course at Westport Light State Park, as is currently being discussed?
Washington State Parks is considering a proposal of a golf course and a 30-40 room inn as part of overall development of Westport Light State Park introduced by Westport Golf LLC in 2019. As a non-golf playing citizen, I do not have a personal interest in the project. As a citizen of Westport, I have an interest in the impact of the proposed project on the environmental, economic, and employment issues of Westport.
Brylie Jarnes
Biography
I have lived in the city of Westport for nearly two years.
Why did you decide to run this year?
I want to stand up for the people of Westport by advocating for lower taxes and standing for jobs and small businesses.
What is the number issue facing Westport in the immediate future, and how would you tackle that issue?
A city government distant from the people and the problems they face. We need to be listening to our residents and small businesses, and not give most of our attention to out-of-town corporations and wealthy investors seeking to capitalize on Westport at the expense of residents.
How do you feel about the possibility of a Scottish links-style golf course at Westport Light State Park, as is currently being discussed?
I oppose the idea of a Scottish-links golf course, I think it would ruin our beautiful and pristine Westport Light State Park and would benefit out-of-town corporations more than residents. However, I think that the issue should be put up for referendum so that the residents can decide.
