Like many of our Woodinville neighbors, we’ve become increasingly concerned about the campaign methods employed by Democratic Woodinville and the candidates represented by this organization.  Our first indicator of concern was the unabashed mimicking of Democratic Party colors and language used in their campaign signage, signaling that they might actually be associated with the Democratic Party.  We’ve learned that they are NOT affiliated with the Democratic Party and per the Democratic Party’s statement, candidates did not even have the courtesy to meet with Party representatives to address concerns or share issues.  We have to wonder why the candidates felt the need to mimic an existing party rather than craft their own identify?  Is it coincidence, laziness, or a deliberate strategy to confuse voters?   

We subsequently learned that the organization and specifically, Jeff Lyons, the founding member, has spent nearly $200,000 on the campaign!  Historically, successful Woodinville candidates have spent only $10,000 on average.  We can’t help but wonder what is behind such fiscally irresponsible spending.  So, sure, the organization can spend whatever amount of funds they want on this local campaign, but what do they really stand for?   

As we’ve reviewed their candidate statements and website, we find lots of criticism for current city council actions and members, but no concrete plans for how candidates Lyons and Best will actually address the significant growth management and transportation issues faced by the city.  “No growth” may make a nice slogan, but it’s not a realistic city management plan.  When considering candidates for city council, we’re looking for forward thinking, fiscally responsible, community responsive individuals.  We’ve come to the conclusion that Lyons & Best have not demonstrated those qualities.  Thus, our votes will be going to candidates who have engaged in a politically responsible manner and who are moving forward beyond campaign hijinks.  We’ll be voting for Michelle Evans, Amber Wise, Sarah Arndt, and James Randolph and invite you to do the same. 
 
Kimberly & Cheri Briar, Woodinville 

Woodinville has seen a dramatic decrease in livability and sense of community in the last three years. Our city council majority has been the primary reason for this occurrence. 

In January, 2022, three individuals were elected who have continuously voted for whatever the current mayor wanted - 100% of the time. Sometimes this happened because of conversations held prior to the scheduled meeting - a violation of OPMA guidelines because other members of the council were not present to contribute to the discussion. A similar situation occurred when the mayor spoke first on an agenda item and then called for a vote without any discussion. Three of the Council majority, elected in 2022, have never shown any individual initiation; they simply follow the mayor’s lead.  

This same Council secured themselves a 67% raise early in their term by a less than honorable method. Raises should be voted on by the full council, after discussion, and at a regularly scheduled meeting, per OPMA guidelines. If approved, the raise takes effect the next time that person is elected. This process was circumvented by calling a “salary commission” to evaluate the raise request. Although several citizens volunteered for the salary commission, they were never called for an interview. Instead, a hand-picked group was chosen who already approved of the raise. The mayoral block all voted for the raise and it went into effect immediately. In some cities, the council has been threatened with a recall measure for such tactics. 

The current city Council majority has allowed developers to take over the planning process in Woodinville. Per the GMA (growth management act) guidelines, all Eastside King County cities must plan for an estimated increase in population. Woodinville is relatively small so our mandated increase is smaller than larger cities. The council majority is pushing for even more housing development even though we have already met GMA guidelines for the next several years. The Molbak’s site could become a 1300 unit monstrosity if the current council has their say. 

I’ve been in volunteer and elected leadership positions for over 30 years. I know bad governance and poor leadership when I see it. Re-elect Rachel Best-Campbell and vote for the challengers. Return Woodinville’s community spirit and bring back our quality of life. 

Gary Harris, former mayor, Woodinville 

 

As a 24-year resident of Woodinville, I’ve watched our city grow, change, and sometimes struggle to find its identity. What began as a quiet little community has transformed into a bustling destination and, unexpectedly, one of the state’s premier wine regions. Growth always comes with challenges—and with that, the need for thoughtful leadership that truly listens to its citizens.  

Over the years, I’ve attended several City Council meetings when I felt it was important for my voice to be heard. Last week, I attended the Woodinville Chamber’s candidate forum, where those running for Woodinville City Council were invited to share their perspectives on our city’s current state and future direction. 

To be honest, I was disappointed—no, appalled—to see that several candidates simply didn’t show up. For those of us who took time out of our day to hear their ideas, their absence spoke volumes. It felt like a slap in the face to the residents who care deeply about where our city is headed. 

In contrast, those who did attend earned my respect. They showed up. They engaged. They listened. They cared enough to be part of the conversation and to face their potential constituents directly, answering questions without filters or pre-recorded statements. That matters as I actually met most of them for the first time that morning. 

I would never tell anyone how to vote—but I will say this: leadership begins with showing up. If a candidate can’t make time to meet with the people they hope to represent, how can we trust them to make time for us once elected? 

 When I cast my ballot this year, I’ll be voting for the people who proved—by their presence—that they care about this community and the people in it. 

Barry Long, Woodinville 

 

Being heard and represented at the city level often feels like a rarity. But here in Woodinville, I’ve recently seen something different and hopeful. 
 
I’ve been a resident of Woodinville for over 26 years and operate a small business here (Crown Bees). Until recently, I hadn’t felt a strong connection with our city’s leadership. That changed when Mayor Mike Millman hosted several Town Square meetings specifically for local business owners. He didn’t come alone. Alongside him were the City Manager and several council members. In those conversations, I felt heard. They listened, gave thoughtful feedback, and genuinely took our concerns to heart. 
 
At several Woodinville in the Park events this summer, I was struck by how approachable Council Members Michelle Evans, Sarah Arndt, and James Randolph were. I saw them walking through the crowds, more than once, talking with residents and listening. Twice I had questions, and both Michelle and Sarah made time for one-on-one conversations. They didn’t just nod and move on. They listened, engaged, and I felt they would carry those concerns forward. 
 
After attending a recent City Council meeting, I was heading to my car when James Randolph caught up with me to ask what I thought of the session. That led to a spontaneous and thoughtful conversation about local issues. I walked away from it impressed by his depth of understanding and clear commitment to doing the right thing for our community. 
 
At an Open Spaces meeting a few months ago, I happened to sit next to Sarah Arndt. I watched her closely, not only was she informed and engaged, but she took detailed notes, asked thoughtful questions, and left with a clear intention to report back. She struck me as someone deeply connected and sincerely invested. 
 
Lastly, I spoke with Michelle Evans at a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. I watched her engage with neighbors and local business owners with genuine enthusiasm. When I asked what fueled her passion for this town, she told me it was simple: this is where she wants to raise her kids, retire someday, and contribute to a community she loves. That kind of long-term commitment matters, and her passion is contagious. She has my vote. 
 
It’s easy to feel disconnected from local government, but these three council members; Michelle, Sarah, and James. are changing that. They are present. They listen. They care. And I believe they represent the kind of leadership that can help Woodinville thrive. 
I strongly recommend all three; Michelle Evans, Sarah Arndt, and James Randolph as thoughtful, committed representatives of our town. 

Dave Hunter, Woodinville 

As a 40-year resident, I’ve watched our city evolve—and not always for the better. The City Council’s recent decision to approve 1,300 new downtown units threatens to overwhelm our infrastructure and erode the charm that once defined our community. We’ve already met our Growth Management Act (GMA) requirements, so why push for more development? 

If additional housing is inevitable, let’s ensure it’s thoughtfully designed to benefit—not burden—our neighborhoods. We must also prioritize fiscal responsibility to avoid new taxes and manage growth wisely. 

This election is an opportunity to bring in fresh, independent voices—candidates who are moderate, non-partisan, and focused on solutions rather than party politics. I encourage you to consider Lyon, Best-Campbell, Amiri, and Hanson for City Council. Let’s change direction together. 

Julie Miller, Woodinville 

We’ve all seen too many leaders who speak first and listen later. Michelle Evans leads differently. She shows up in neighborhoods, listens in living rooms, and proactively visits businesses to understand issues. She absorbs input and feedback from across the community, then collaboratively crafts solutions that reflect who we are. 
 
People call her pragmatic, grounded, steady, and approachable. She’s highly collaborative and when difficult decisions need to be made, she takes the time to understand all sides of the issue to make the best decision for Woodinville. 
 
I trust her because she doesn’t lead from an ideology, she is a neighbor that walks with us, side by side. In a crowded field of voices, I believe Michelle Evans is the one who cares about improving Woodinville for all of us. 
 
Sharon Ilstrup, Redmond, works in Woodinville 

I am writing to share my enthusiastic support for four exceptional candidates for Woodinville City Council: Michelle Evans, Sarah Arndt, James Randolph, and Amber Wise. 

As a resident of Woodinville for 14 years, I have seen how our aging infrastructure has affected daily life. Michelle Evans, Sarah Arndt, and James Randolph are leaders who take action for Woodinville residents. They don’t just talk about problems; they work to solve them. By collaborating across King County, Washington State, and even in Washington, D.C., they have helped secure more than $23 million in federal, state, and county grants to: upgrade roads, build safer sidewalks and trails, and improve the grid road network. These grants reduce reliance on local tax dollars for short-term fixes and fund critical infrastructure improvements that benefit the entire community. This is smart, forward-thinking leadership—investing in solutions that serve all of Woodinville for years to come. 

What truly distinguishes Evans, Arndt, Randolph, and Wise is their broad vision for the city, their collaborative spirit, and their openness to listening and adapting. They will represent all of Woodinville—not just the loudest voices or narrow interests. Each of them is approachable and willing to have a conversation with any resident to understand concerns and ideas. 

Conversely, recent City Council meetings have been marred by dysfunction, including a public outburst where Rachel Best-Campbell yelled “SHUT UP” at Mayor Millman (as reported by Fox 13) and a physical altercation involving Best-Campbell’s father and Councilmember Evans. This kind of behavior is unacceptable, has no place in local governance, and is intimidating residents from expressing their voice in opposition. 

In stark contrast, Evans, Arndt, Randolph, and Wise lead with integrity. They avoid personal attacks, set aside ego, and focus on collaboration and consensus to achieve real progress. Their broad endorsements from respected leaders, local organizations, and regional groups speak to their credibility and commitment to our community. 

 For these reasons, I urge Woodinville voters to support Michelle Evans, Sarah Arndt, James Randolph, and Amber Wise for City Council. They have proven they can deliver results and lead with respect and vision. 

Amanda Thompson, Woodinville 

 

I walk the trails in Woodinville every week with my dog, and every time I do, I’m reminded why I love living here: the trees, the quiet pockets of nature, and the feeling of being part of something green and alive. 
 
Michelle Evans, Sarah Arndt and James Randolph understand that protecting that feeling takes more than good intentions, it takes action. They’ve been fierce advocates for preserving Woodinville’s natural beauty, even as our city grows. 

They’ve also championed the expansion of the Wood Trails and EasTrail, opening up more access for residents to walk, bike, and connect with nature, not just downtown, but across neighborhoods. The city has also invested in pollinator gardens, protected tree canopy coverage, and planned new connections that allow families to enjoy our outdoors safely and sustainably. 

Michelle Evans, Sarah Arndt and James Randolph are pro–thoughtful growth, the kind that protects neighborhood character, making space for kids to roam under trees, not just walk past concrete walls. They see our green spaces not just as amenities, but as infrastructure, essential for public health, climate resilience, and the heart of our city’s identity. 

If you want leaders who prioritize clean air, safe paths, thriving trees, and habitat for future generations, Michelle Evans, Sarah Arndt and James Randolph are already doing the work. Let’s keep it going. 
 
Alice C. Hayes, Woodinville 

Going into the final weeks before our City Council elections I have a simple request.  Please stay focused on the issues facing our town.  Empty storefronts because rents are too high and foot traffic is too low and parking is too sparse.  Big developers building more housing without having to offer traffic solutions because the surrounding roads are under county and state jurisdiction.  These are challenging issues that I am very thankful we still have individuals willing to tackle them!  So let's move beyond the playground antics of putting up signs disparaging individual candidates.  Certainly don't break the law by removing a candidate's sign and do your neighbors the courtesy of removing your signs the day after the election.  Finally Mr. Mayor you have done so much good for this town, when given the opportunity, if you can't say something nice- don't say anything at all! 

Lynn McGrew, Woodinville 

 

Non-partisan city councils are founded on a simple but powerful principle: that we can rise above party interests to serve the whole community. The idea was that representatives would focus on local needs and practical solutions. Attending local council meetings, I have unfortunately witnessed informal factions and a deficit in democracy. The divisions breed antagonism, obscure the reasoning behind decisions, and make it harder for the council to deliver on its original promise of unity and fairness. 

It's only natural that like-minded people find common ground. That's part of how teamwork happens. But on our council, and developing around our council, those natural alliances seem to have hardened into closed circles. Information flows selectively, often shared within these groups while others are left out. It feels like some council members often coordinate decisions through private avenues; public meetings are in danger of becoming mere performance. Open debate has given way to guarded exchanges, and secretive competition has replaced the spirit of cooperation. The council, meant to deliberate in the open, now seems to make its real decisions in conversations the public never sees. 

The consequences of this pattern affects residents throughout the region. Our incorporated city represents only a portion of the people affected by its decisions. Many residents in unincorporated areas depend on city policies but lack a formal voice in governance. That makes transparency, communication, and accountability even more necessary. When only small circles share information, the wider community cannot engage in, or influence decisions that directly affect their lives. 

Still, there is reason for optimism. The council should respond (and often does) when citizens speak up at meetings and demand answers. Attending meetings, speaking during public comment, and writing to representatives may seem small, but these actions remind elected officials whom they serve. This kind of participation takes effort, but it also imposes the necessary oversight that keeps democracy healthy. 

At the very least, please show up to vote. Local elections rarely draw crowds, yet the officials you elect set tax rates, approve development projects, fund schools and police, and decide which roads get repaired. Support candidates who pledge independence, who consult all members before proposing policy rather than working only with their faction.  

Choose representatives who value openness over loyalty to any group. Our community deserves a council that listens to everyone, and that begins with citizens who refuse to remain passive. 

Alison Farmer, Woodinville 

The results of the primary are in, and while I won’t be advancing to the general election for Woodinville City Council, I want to thank everyone who supported, challenged, and believed in this campaign. 
 
From the beginning, this wasn’t about a title—it was about standing up for the values that make Woodinville a place worth fighting for: affordable housing, responsible development, and transparent leadership. We sparked meaningful conversations and built a coalition of neighbors who believe in a future that includes everyone. 
 
I’m proud of what we accomplished, and I’m even prouder to support candidates who are continuing that work. 
 
For Position 3, I endorse both Rachel Best-Campbell and Amber Wise. They’ve shown a deep commitment to community-centered planning and inclusive policymaking. I believe either would bring thoughtful, grounded leadership to the Council. 
 
That said, it’s important to acknowledge a gap in representation. Based on public records, none of the current councilmembers—or any of the remaining candidates—rent their primary residence. As someone who does, I brought a lived perspective to housing policy that’s missing from our city’s leadership. Renters make up a significant part of Woodinville, and their voices deserve a seat at the table. 
 
I encourage voters to look closely at each candidate’s record—especially those who have consistently advocated for housing solutions that reflect our city’s needs and who prioritize civic engagement. OneWoodinville’s election guide is a great resource for understanding where candidates stand. 
 
This campaign may be over, but the work continues. I’ll keep showing up, speaking out, and advocating for the issues that brought us together. Because Woodinville’s future deserves leaders—and residents—who care deeply, listen closely, and act with integrity. 
 
Onward, Woodinville.  

Brandon Finley, Woodinville 

We’re stronger when everyone belongs, whether you’re a longtime Woodinvillian or newly arrived, renter or homeowner, young or senior. 
 
Michelle Evans has made inclusion a foundational priority: breaking down barriers, pushing for accessibility, embracing diverse voices, and ensuring our public processes reflect all of Woodinville, not just the loudest. 
 
I don’t live within city limits, but I work, shop and volunteer here, and I care deeply about this community. When I reached out with concerns, Michelle didn’t ask where I lived; she listened with respect, offered context, and followed up. That kind of responsiveness is rare. 
 
She knows that the community doesn’t stop at a city line. It’s built through relationships, engagement, empathy, and showing up for one another. 
 
In a time when division is easy, Michelle chooses bridges over boundaries. If you want a Woodinville where your voice means something, no matter your home address, please vote for Michelle Evans. 
 
Mavis Feasel, Redmond 

I have known Sarah Arndt for over ten years; five years as a member of Open Space Commission and one term as city council member. When I worked with Sarah, I could always depend on her being honest and congenial both on social occasions as well as on city related matters. During any city related deliberations, I often find her to be looking for solutions that encompass all sides. This characteristic is a rarity in this day and age. We in Woodinville need city leaders with integrity and decency like Sarah. 

Roy Ghazimorad, Woodinville 

The King County Executive election is an opportunity for voters to affirm the policies of managed growth within the cities and suburbs. The more experienced candidate, Claudia Balducci speaks in support of managed growth, but her support for commercial expansion of wineries and breweries in the Sammamish Valley calls into question that commitment. 

King County Voters approved our Farmland Preservation Program 45 years ago and Washington implemented the Growth Management Act 35 years ago to contain our cities and suburbs and protect the beautiful and productive farms, fields and forests surrounding us. Farmland preservation has kept both the Sammamish and Snoqualmie River Valleys available for a wide array of agricultural ventures and trails along the rivers that make our life here so enjoyable. Growth management has kept eastern King County cities and suburbs from sprawling into the rural areas that extend out to the foothills of the Cascades. 

The leaders who brought us these foundations of managed growth have mostly retired or passed from the scene, but their policies have endured. Their legacy includes compact cities with densities high enough to allow public transit. As a result, we can spend less on roads, and more on parks and salmon recovery. We still have working farms close enough for city-dwelling farmers and farmers’ markets. And we have air and water clean enough to support salmon and farms. Now we need to choose leaders who will preserve these good policies for the coming decades. We need leaders who have demonstrated they will manage growth and create thriving cities within the confines of the urban growth boundary. 

The financial forces for sprawl are strong and hard to resist. An example in recent years is the tremendous growth of winery and brewery retail and entertainment venues in the Sammamish Valley between Redmond and Woodinville. Winery, brewery and distillery investors saw a huge opportunity and lobbied for rules to use protected farmland and rural areas for manufacturing, tasting rooms and event centers throughout rural King County.  

King County Executive Dow Constantine drafted legislation to allow the new uses. The local community, including farmers and environmentalists, as well as many state and regional organizations objected but after nearly two years of extensive hearings, the King County Council under Claudia Balducci’s leadership passed the ordinance on a 5-4 vote in December 2019 to allow the above commercial uses on protected farmland and rural lands. Balducci’s early co-sponsorship of the legislation led to passage. 

Community groups appealed first to the Growth Management Hearings Board and eventually all the way to the WA Supreme Court, which in a final 2024 decision upheld all the violations found by the Growth Management Hearings Board. After spending millions of taxpayer dollars on a legal case, the County removed wineries, breweries, and distilleries as permitted uses on rural and agricultural land. 

This example illustrates the strong special interest and financial pressures for commercial development. Properly located, development can be both a commercial win and a public good. However, if allowed to intrude on protected farmland and rural open spaces, wildlife habitats and watersheds, sprawl can cause harmful environmental degradation and drive up the cost of farmland out of reach of farmers. Sprawl fundamentally increases the need to spend public tax dollars on costly infrastructure (roads, sewer hookup, etc.) in far-flung parts of the County, thus draining cities of needed dollars for public infrastructure and services. Infrastructure and services can be delivered most affordably in dense cities, which allow us to handle expected growth most cost effectively overall. Farmland, watersheds, open spaces and forests must be protected to provide all citizens of the county food security, clean water, and access to open spaces for physical and mental health. 

If Councilmember Balducci had accepted the Supreme Court’s decision as valid, it would have been instructive to the King County Council and would have reinforced managed growth principles. But Ms. Balducci has defended the County’s lawsuit and has argued against the Court’s decision, which means either that Ms. Balducci does not understand the GMA or she does not think that the Growth Management Act prevents commercial activities like tasting rooms and event centers on protected farmland and in the rural areas.  

This calls into question whether Claudia Balducci is the right candidate to manage growth in King County or whether she will again bend to pressure to accommodate growth beyond the line set in law. Voters will get the chance to decide in November’s general election. 

We both opposed the legislation over the many years it was debated on the King County Council and supported the legal challenges through 2024. 

Ken Albinger, former 45th Democrats District Chair 2015-18 and Legislative Action Chair 2019-25, Woodinville 

Susan Boundy-Sanders, former Woodinville City Councilmember 2009-2021, Woodinville  

I have worked alongside Robin Campbell on quality improvement work for EvergreenHealth. Robin doesn't hesitate to take on tough issues to improve and maintain the highest level of quality outcomes for EvergreenHealth patients. He is able to draw from his vast experience in effective corporate leadership, as well as his service on multiple Board of Directors to help shape and guide a successful future for EvergreenHealth.  As a current Commissioner, Robin provides insight and passion to his work, always placing the health of patients and the community as his top priority. 

I encourage you to join me in voting for Robin Campbell for King County Public Hospital District #2, position #5.  He will continue his proven leadership and insightful guidance to maintain EvergreenHealth as one of the top Hospitals in the nation. 

Don Briggs, Pharmacy Director (Retired), EvergreenHealth, Kenmore 

I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for Snohomish County Superior Court Judge Karen Moore for the Court of Appeals. At a time when our judicial system faces complex challenges, it is imperative that we elect judges of integrity, intelligence, and fairness. I’ve known Karen for close to 30 years – ever since our daughters became friends in preschool. I know Karen exemplifies these qualities and will serve on the appellate court with distinction. 
 
Karen has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to justice and fairness throughout her legal career. Her experience as a prosecutor and family law attorney has given her a broad perspective and an unwavering respect for the rights and needs of individuals and families. As a resident of this community, I value the importance of having judges who will listen carefully, weigh facts thoughtfully, and apply the law fairly to everyone. Karen has shown a remarkable ability to do just that. She is also a trustworthy and compassionate friend, and her ability to see humanity in every situation inspires my confidence in her ability to serve on the appellate court. 
 
Our appellate court plays a vital role in safeguarding justice and ensuring the fair application of the law. I know Karen will approach every case with an open mind, a keen intellect, and a commitment to upholding the law and the principles upon which our legal system is founded. 
 
I urge you to support Judge Karen Moore for the Court of Appeals. Let’s elect a judge who will honor the trust we place in them and work diligently to protect the rights of all. 
 
Debbie Scodeller Warfield 

We are writing to express our support for Judge Karen Moore for the Court of Appeals. As former law clerks who have had the privilege of working directly with Judge Moore, we have observed her unwavering dedication to justice and her steadfast commitment to fairness in every aspect of her work. 
 
Judge Moore demonstrates respect and empathy toward all individuals who appear before her. She listens attentively and patiently, carefully weighs the facts, and applies the law fairly and impartially. In challenging circumstances, Judge Moore remained true to her values, making decisions grounded in fairness and justice rather than personal influence or external pressure. 
 
While working with her, Judge Moore always fostered an environment of professionalism and collegiality. She encouraged open dialogue, welcomed diverse perspectives, asked for our feedback, and supported our growth and development as lawyers. Judge Moore freely shared the knowledge she gained from decades of trial work, and her mentorship directly contributed to our successes today in our legal careers. 
 
Judge Moore’s extensive experience and genuine passion for justice is what we, as lawyers, want in our appellate judges. We are confident that Judge Moore will serve our community with distinction and honor on the Court of Appeals, and we ask you to vote for her on November 4. 
 
Respectfully, 
Zarish Khan 
Kelly Wilson