Voter Pamphlet Preview

 Here is a draft of my candidate statement to be included in the voter pamplet that will be mailed next month. I am limited to 325 words. Suggestions and comments welcome!

PART ONE: REQUIRED INFORMATION

OCCUPATION:

 

Teacher

OCCUPATIONAL BACKGROUND: 

Director of Religious Education/Pastoral Associate, 1985-1998; Director, Columbia County CASA, 2000-2001; Elementary Public School Teacher, 2000-Present

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Cheyenne Central High School, Conception Seminary College, BA Philosophy; St. Thomas Theological Seminary, MDiv; George Fox University, MAT

PRIOR GOVERNMENTAL EXPERIENCE

St. Helens School District Board of Directors, City of St. Helens Budget Committee, City of St. Helens Library Board

PART TWO: OPTIONAL INFORMATION

I am a 28-year resident of St. Helens.

I am independent. I did not accept financial contributions and did not seek endorsements.

As an educator, I believe in looking at issues from multiple perspectives. I will give thoughtful consideration to all opinions and viewpoints on issues that come before the Council.

City councilors are public servants. If elected, I will direct my monthly councilor’s stipend to an account to establish a foundation for environmental education and preservation and restoration of natural areas in St. Helens.

My priorities are to:

    1. Continue the work of the City to improve systems and procedures assuring accountability

and transparency in city council practice and decisions regarding the use of city finances

and resources. 

    2. Promote planned economic growth that provides for sustainable growth, family wage

jobs, and a supportive tax base.

    3. Ensure that the development of the waterfront, Boise White Paper property, and the

repurposing of the wastewater treatment lagoon is done with as much community input as possible and to ensure that the development is done in ways that protect the safety and health of our residents and the environment. 

   4. Continue to examine what changes can be made in the structure and practice of our city government to ensure that all residents feel welcome and empowered to participate in all aspects of city life and governance.

For more information go to Facebook: “Patrick Birkle for St. Helens City Council, Position 2”, Instagram “birkleforcitycouncil” and my blog at birkleforcitycouncil.blogspot.com/.