6 days ago
SOAP LAKE MAYOR: Peter Sharp
Aug. 5—SOAP LAKE — As the current mayor of Soap Lake, Peter Sharp is running to continue as mayor with a vision to keep improving the quality of life for residents and enhancing community infrastructure, he said.
Sharp was running unopposed on the November ballot until City Council Member Karen Woodhouse opted to run against him last week as a write-in.
Sharp has a background in municipal leadership, bolstered by numerous certifications, including the Certificate of Municipal Leadership and Advanced Certificate of Municipal Leadership, awarded by the Association of Washington Cities.
"For the first time in Soap Lake since 2018, the city is financially on track," Sharp said. "We're creating sustainable revenue for the city and ensuring that employees receive the wages and benefits they deserve."
Sharp said his focus on fiscal responsibility and equitable treatment of municipal workers highlights a commitment to improving local governance while making the best use of taxpayers' dollars.
Affordable housing is a significant issue that Sharp is keen to address in his re-election campaign.
"I envision a Soap Lake where every family has access to secure, stable living conditions, which will enable them to thrive and contribute to our community's growth and diversity," he said.
Sharp said he believes that by developing strategies for affordable housing, the community can retain its residents and attract newcomers.
Active promotion and support of local businesses are also pivotal components of Sharp's plan, he said. He plans to leverage the unique character of Soap Lake to foster economic development.
"I will actively promote our local small businesses while working to attract new industries that are compatible with Soap Lake's character," he said.
Safety and security remain crucial priorities for Sharp, he said. As a proponent of community policing initiatives, he plans to foster trust and cooperation between law enforcement and residents.
"I am committed to collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to uphold and enhance the safety and security of Soap Lake for both residents and visitors," he said.
Sharp's plans extend beyond safety, aiming to significantly improve the city's infrastructure, including upgrading roads, modernizing utilities, and enhancing public spaces, he said.
"By improving accessibility and amenities, we can create a welcoming environment that draws people in and encourages them to explore all that Soap Lake has to offer," he said.
In an interview, he discussed his management style, describing it as hands-on and thorough.
"I act in the capacity of full-time mayor," he said.
This involvement encompasses grant writing, financial oversight and ensuring that community issues are addressed promptly. Sharp said his view is that a proactive and engaged leadership model fosters positive relations between the city administration and the community.
As for the challenges facing Soap Lake, Sharp acknowledged that previous practices have created obstacles for the city. He indicated a desire to separate council responsibilities from city operations to enhance governance.
"There cannot be overlap where council members involve themselves in day-to-day activities with city administration or public works," Sharp said.
Sharp's political background includes serving on the council and as mayor pro tempore for a short time before being appointed mayor. Although he said he does not come from a conventional political background, he has engaged extensively in professional development that equips him for municipal leadership roles. He believes his diverse experiences contribute to effective governance.
"If I don't know the answer, I'll be the first to tell you I don't know. But I will find out," Sharp said.
Sharp is the only listed candidate on the ballot this November; however, there is a write-in candidate.
"I am here for them. My only goal is to make Soap Lake a great place, to ensure that every resident has a voice, and to address their concerns," Sharp said. "My goal is to make Soap Lake great again."
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