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Phone
4063810885
Email
ingthwy@gmail.com
Town where you live
Shelton
Experience (300 characters max)
While I have no previous city government experience, I have been a resident of Shelton since 2018. I am a community member, hospital volunteer, faith community leader, father, husband, and public servant.
In my role as pastor of a local church (Faith Lutheran--ELCA), I have formal and informal conversations with people every day. Interacting with people is what I do best! As a member of the city council, I would make myself available before, during, and after council meetings and city events, like the Arts Walk and Bite of Shelton. I would also make it a point to visit local businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.
I am not an expert on environmental issues. It is our duty to the next generation to try and leave the place in better shape than when we got here. At the same time, we need to figure out ways to create more affordable housing and sustainable small businesses. Shelton’s location is one of our greatest assets. We should leverage and lean into showcasing what a beautiful place this is. And the city leadership should prioritize being good stewards of the land, the water, and the people we serve.
Over the years I have served on numerous community, church, education, and hospital boards and committees. I am a volunteer chaplain at Mason Health. Most recently, in my role as pastor of Faith Lutheran Church, I have been hosting a monthly networking luncheon for area non-profits. Faith has also begun staging a monthly resource fair (Hope Plaza) to bring direct medical and social services to vulnerable and underserved populations. It is my conviction and commitment that caring for the “widow, orphan, and foreigner” is what churches and people are supposed to do.
Housing is a crucial issue in Shelton and Mason County. Through Faith's ministry to and with people in need, I talk to people experiencing houselessness and food insecurity on a regular basis. These are our neighbors, and they are struggling to raise their kids, afford rent, keep a job, stay healthy, and participate in public life. The city needs to collaborate with the County, non-profit organizations (Community Lifeline, Crossroads), and churches to look at what has been done, what is needed, and then to actively devise a plan for emergency, short-term, and affordable housing solutions in Shelton. There is no quick fix. This issue requires the imagination, cooperation, and commitment of all city leaders, business owners, and citizens, regardless of political leanings. We need to include our Spanish-language and Indigenous neighbors in this conversation as well.
I guess I’m old school: I envision a Shelton that is for all people. A community of neighbors who take care of each other and the planet. A town that embraces ethnic and cultural diversity, supports local businesses, treats one another with dignity and respect, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. A city that strives to find the balance between embracing growth and honoring our past. A city that is known for its willingness to tackle tough issues, work together, and come up with creative solutions. I believe that is the kind of community we can all call home.
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