Chris Stearns is running for Auburn City Council Position No. 1. Stearns is running unopposed
Auburn Symphony Orchestra:
“As Auburn continues to grow, what role do you think local arts organizations can play in this ever-changing community?”
The local arts are vital to our community and improve our lives, our relationships, and the economy.
Valley Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1352:
“With the increase of low income/affordable housing in Auburn, there is a steady increase in the number of EMS calls that the VRFA responds to. How do you propose the VRFA deal with the increase in emergency and non-emergency calls for service to this population?”
I am not sure what this question is implying. That low income Auburn residents, or those who live in affordable housing are calling EMS in disproportionate numbers? That may be the case but I am also sure that there is a reason that should be examined. Or it simply may not be the case.
Green River College President, Dr. Suzanne Johnson:
“The Mayor’s Task Force addressing “strong education, strong careers, and strong communities” is focused on building a “leak-proof” K-12 to College to Career pathway for Auburn students. The vision of this task force is “to build a community where all residents can successfully participate in the workforce, achieve economic stability, raise a family, and be a part of the fabric of Algona, Auburn, and Pacific. We will build a regional education to career pipeline that is a community-wide effort uniting education, cities, the business community, community-based organizations, and citizens where 100% of businesses choose to remain in the Cities and 100% of prospective employers choose our cities.” What will you do to build the necessary relationships and structures between city government, business, K-12 and Higher-Ed to support the task force and meet this goal?”
I am fortunate enough to have attended, high school, college, and law school and support the Task Force’s efforts to create a pathway for Auburn students. And I am proud that our daughters graduated from Auburn High School and that our youngest has enrolled at the University of Washington in Seattle. We have to do better by our children. They are our hope and our future and our most precious resource. I will work while serving on the Council to improve the workforce and educational opportunities for our Auburn students.
Auburn Area Schools:
“What is your vision for helping connect students in the local workforce?”
I’d like to see the City work with students to introduce them to technical education, to the sciences, and to apprenticeship programs operated by unions that lead to well-paying, career-oriented jobs.
Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce:
“What is your stance on a city-imposed B/O taxes and other related business only taxes?”
Our approach to taxes should be based on solid research, evidence, science, and data as well as listening to the voices of our constituents.
Auburn Spiritual Leaders:
“What does it mean to promote the life and dignity of every human person?”
To be fair and non-judgmental to all, to be a good servant, a good listener, and to respect the choices and character of all of our fellow people.
Auburn Spiritual Leaders:
“Do you evaluate the treatment of the poor and vulnerable as the benchmark of how successful the city is?”
I believe that how we treat the poor, the underrepresented, and the vulnerable is a true measure of our character as a City.
Auburn High School Key Club:
“How can we support and empower homeless youth out of homelessness and what do you see the role of students/youth is in accomplishing this goal?”
Finding housing is the most important start. I wholeheartedly support the City’s existing efforts to create housing options for youth and was honored to attend the groundbreaking of the new home that the City is partnering with the YMCA and Nexus on.
Auburn Food Bank:
“How will you support Auburn’s social safety net programs as a city council member?”
I will bring the perspective of a Native American parent, of someone who spent a few years in the LA County foster care system, and of being the former Chair of the Seattle Human Rights Commission. I hope that our City will continue to invest in programs that work and elevate all of our lives.
Auburn Food Bank:
“The city of Auburn provides 1% of its general fund dollars to human services programs. What is your position on the city’s use of that money?”
I believe that the City has been a good steward of its money and I am grateful to the Mayor and the Council for their good work on funding important human services programs.
Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce:
“Define “Partnership” and give us an example of a partnership you think exemplifies your definition?”
A good partnership brings out the best in each of us and makes us stronger and more faithful. The best one I can think of is the lifelong one I have with my wife and friend, Pamela.
Check out other candidate responses to these questions here. Other election questionnaires can be found in our Vote 2019 section.