Rick Almberg knows how to make a splash.
The Oak Harbor councilman made his announcement that he will seek reelection surrounded by members of his campaign committee at a strategically chosen site downtown.
He said the spot, next to the Windjammer Park sign, can be seen as the epicenter of the issues he is focused on as a councilman.
It’s near to the site of the future wastewater treatment plant, a giant project that he wants to continue to help guide to a successful completion at a cost that is affordable to the community.
It’s just down the road from the Island Transit transfer station; as a councilman, he was picked as chairman of the Island Transit board as the agency rebuilds its budget and the public trust.
It’s also next to banking centers; he said he wants to “continue to promote sound financial policies to ensure stable city services today and into the future.”
Almberg said his continued involvement in the wastewater treatment plant and Island Transit will help ensure a smooth transition as both issues move forward.
“Rick’s a guy who starts a job and finishes a job,” said Joe Mosolino, chairman of Almberg’s reelection campaign.
Almberg said he made the announcement of his candidacy early because of rumors that he wouldn’t seek a third term. He said he expects to have a challenger but hasn’t heard of any potential candidates yet.
It’s likely to be a lively election season with many local seats up for grabs.
Councilman Bob Severns was the first to jump into the ring when he announced his run for mayor two weeks ago. Mayor Scott Dudley said he will likely seek reelection.
The seats currently held by Councilwomen Tara Hizon and Beth Munns will be on the ballot. Neither has announced whether they will run again.
Big changes are also coming to Coupeville.
Mayor Nancy Conard said she isn’t seeking reelection after 20 years at the town’s helm.
Molly Hughes and Bob Clay, both longtime members of the town council, said they aren’t running for their seats. Councilwoman Jackie Henderson is also up for reelection but hasn’t announced her intentions.
The seats held by two members of the Whidbey General Hospital board, Georgie Gardner and Nancy Fey, will be on the ballot.
All five positions on the North Whidbey Park and Recreation board, which has gone through strife in recent years, will also be on the ballot.
Three seats on the Oak Harbor School board, two seats on the Coupeville school board, two on the Port of Coupeville, one on North Whidbey Fire and Rescue board and one on Central Whidbey Fire board will also appear on the ballot, along with various positions on cemetery districts, water districts and sewer districts.
