Election 2023: Candidates competing for four Port Orchard City Council positions

Eight candidates are running for four seats in the Port Orchard City Council in the November election. Mark Trenary, current city council member at-large, versus Wilbur Hart for Position 1. Eric Worden challenges incumbent John Clauson for Position 4. Heidi Fenton faces incumbent Cindy Lucarelli for Position 5. Kaylan Marie O’Connor and John Morrissey compete for the two-year At-Large position.

Position 5 was the only seat that went through the August primary, in which Fenton received 48.19% of the vote, Lucarelli got 46.13%, and Jessica Hallman, who didn't provide any information on the primary's voter's pamphlet, had 5.68%.

Clauson has served the city council for 40 years since he was appointed to the council in 1983. Lucarelli was elected for Position 5 in 2011 and has served the city council for over 11 years. Trenary defeated Shaun Williams in 2021's election to serve in the at-large position for two years.

In 2021, O'Connor challenged City Council incumbent Fred Chang for the four-term Position 6 and received 42.83% of the vote, versus Chang's 57.17%.

According to the voter's pamphlet, Hart has six years of commercial logging operations experience. Worden has served in Kitsap County Public Works since 1995. Fenton was a small business owner at Heidi’s Haven Daycare from 1989 to 2020. O’Connor has eight-year tenure with the Department of Defense. Morrissey is the General Manager at Kitsap RV and has 15 years of experience working in the banking industry at Kitsap Credit Union and US Bank.

The Kitsap Sun sent questions regarding the candidates' motivation to run for the city council and thoughts on the current and future Port Orchard. Below are responses to the questions posed to all candidates, in the order they will appear on ballots:

Port Orchard City Council-Position 1

Mark Trenary

Career experience: Current council person. Five years’ prior experience on the planning committee. Small business owner who also serves on several boards.

Q: Why are you running for City Council Position 1?

A: I am running for this 4-year position because as of January 1, 2024, I’ll be completing my first 2-year council term and I feel like there is still much work to be done. Two years ago, I ran for the 2-year position to get my feet wet. I was unsure that my responsibilities of running my own business along with my other community commitments would allow me the time to be as effective as I need to be. I’ve been able to create the necessary time in my schedule to be effective in all three capacities and continue to enjoy the experience of making a difference in our city.

Q: Some major development that could shape the future of Port Orchard includes Bethel and Sedgwick Corridor, Bay Street Improvements and a new community center. Do you agree with the directions the current city council is taking Port Orchard to in the long term, and why or why not? In addition, what are some other ways you would do in the city council to improve the everyday life and wellness of current and future Port Orchard residents as regional population growth is foreseeable?

A: I do agree with the direction the city and the council are taking regarding the future of Port Orchard. Growth has been happening, whether we like it or not. And it’s happening fast. I feel strongly that we need to be in front of this growth and provide control and direction. That is what the city is doing.

Continue to improve the communication between the city and our citizens, whether it be by using more surveys or by social media or direct mail, or a combination of all. Our citizens can and do help shape our city’s direction and have already told us they prioritize parks, improved traffic flow and safety.

Q: What are your top 3 priorities to work on in the city council if you win the election? How would you make efforts on your prioritized issues/projects during your 4-year tenure? Why are these issues critical to you, and why can you do better than your opponent on addressing these issues?

A: 1. Continue to push forward with the Bethel Avenue traffic flow improvements.

2. Improve communication between the city and its citizens. We are entering into a 5-to-7-year period of exciting construction improvements in our downtown corridor and it’s critical to keep our downtown businesses and citizens updated throughout this period.

3. Controlling cost increases to our citizens while continuing to improve the infrastructure. While I believe the city has done a tremendous job in making growth pay for itself, we still have a lot to do. There are many established areas of our city that are underserved and need improvements. Things like replacing the 20 + year old water meters and lines, installing better street lighting, laying sidewalks for improved safety or just a fresh topcoat of asphalt on the road surface. These improvements cost money. Getting things done without overtaxing our citizens is important to me and I will continue to focus on improvements versus cost control.

Wilbur Hart

Wilbur Hard didn't provide answers to the questions after multiple requests.

Port Orchard City Council-Position 4

Eric Worden

Career experience: Nearly 30 years in Public Works serving the community. I volunteer on Boards and committees, currently Civil Service Committee.

Q: Why are you running for City Council Position 4?

A: I’ve lived in Port Orchard for 45 years. I am heavily involved in my community and I listen intently to its concerns. While I respect many who sit on council, I offer alternative solutions to the needs of our community. I have a combination of experience that accompanies my inviting personality, which allows for engaged and enlightened interactions with citizens. City Council has seven seats, yet very few are approachable. Nearly three decades working in Public Works has made me a natural leader with experience in customer relations, knowledge in the utility field, communication within departments, teamwork, and team building. I know the importance of proper infrastructure and planning. I work in a field which holds developers accountable, and it requires local government to be held to the same standard. Working well with the community to problem solve their concerns is my job. It’s what I take pride in more than anything else. The City of Port Orchard has a need for a person with these professional experiences and characteristics. If elected I plan on making myself available one Saturday a month for “Coffee with a Councilman”, where I will be personally on hand to listen to community members’ concerns.

Q: Some major development that could shape the future of Port Orchard includes Bethel and Sedgwick Corridor, Bay Street Improvements and a new community center. Do you agree with the directions the current city council is taking Port Orchard to in the long term, and why or why not? In addition, what are some other ways you would do in the city council to improve the everyday life and wellness of current and future Port Orchard residents as regional population growth is foreseeable?

A: I have seen growth, lack of growth, and quickly escalating growth. Years back candidates were asked what needs to be done to increase Port Orchard growth. Current members responses, then, are not a reflection of what’s happening today. They’ve been helping write policies and enact comprehensive plans that contradict its previous stances. Instead, we have a council shocked by growth and caught off guard. Recently, McCormick Woods Development put up 100s of homes with no water considerations. Sudden growth was a “surprise” to the city, homeowners, and developers, yet nothing gets platted or permitted without going through the city. Why wasn’t this put in place ahead of time?  In 2009-2011 the city incorporated McCormick Woods, Fred Meyer, Walmart, and Safeway. With added large tax bases, there’s a responsibility of managing roads and communities. The McCormick water issues and traffic logs throughout Bethel and Stetson Heights were developed with little oversight where ecology had to get involved because of poor planning by the mayor and council. The city is pumping out permits and not planning infrastructure. The receipts are all there on elected officials. If elected I hope to be held to the same standard.

Q: What are your top 3 priorities to work on in the city council if you win the election? How would you make efforts on your prioritized issues/projects during your 4-year tenure? Why are these issues critical to you, and why can you do better than your opponent on addressing these issues?

A: After many conversations, my concerns are shared by the majority. I believe infrastructure before development, improving the city’s basic appearance, and staying engaged with our community members.

Infrastructure would be a matter of importance by writing and enforcing policy. Before a development or commercial property comes, the infrastructure will be in place. For example, on Blueberry Rd we currently have four large neighborhoods in place or being built and an apartment complex going up. After they developed or permitted the area, the city council passed sales tax increase to cover traffic mitigation. This is backwards.

Improving the basic appearance of the city needs to be prioritized. Drive through the city and you see the filth, overgrown vegetation, destroyed concrete curbing, neglected stripping, and a lack of basic needs. We must improve these areas to improve pride. The current message the city is sending is “it’s not a priority”.

The city has my opponent’s name all over it for nearly 40 years. The city has a low standard for appearance, lacks infrastructure for growth, and zero community engagement. Gig Harbor and Poulsbo show their pride. Where’s ours? I want to make Port Orchard a destination, one we are proud of.

John Clauson

Career experience: Over 40 years at Kitsap Transit and as a City Council member, served on numerous committees and boards.

Q: Why are you running for City Council Position 4?

A: I'm running for City Council Position 4 because of my deep roots in Port Orchard and my unwavering commitment. Having lived here my whole life, I've seen the city change, and I want to contribute meaningfully.

Port Orchard is where my family thrives. Two of my three children and three of my four grandchildren call it home, showing our strong connection.

I'm genuinely interested in shaping our community's future, ensuring it's a place for families like mine. I want great schools, safe neighborhoods, and diverse opportunities.

I'm driven by the desire to give back to the community that has given my family so much. With my experience and dedication, I aim to guide our city toward a bright future, preserving its unique character and spirit.

Q: Some major development that could shape the future of Port Orchard includes Bethel and Sedgwick Corridor, Bay Street Improvements and a new community center. Do you agree with the directions the current city council is taking Port Orchard to in the long term, and why or why not? In addition, what are some other ways you would do in the city council to improve the everyday life and wellness of current and future Port Orchard residents as regional population growth is foreseeable?

A: In my role on the Port Orchard City Council, I support our city's direction. I've worked with dedicated council members, a capable mayor, and our committed city staff, making positive strides for Port Orchard.

I back major projects shaping our city's future, like Bethel & Sedgwick Corridor improvements, Bay Street enhancements, a new community center and library. These projects are vital for:

Economic Growth: Bethel & Sedgwick Corridor improvements boost business access and reduce traffic, benefiting our economy and residents.

Downtown Revitalization: Bay Street upgrades enhance our downtown, attracting residents and visitors, promoting community engagement and commerce.

Community Well-being: A new community center and library fosters a sense of community, offering recreational activities and gatherings for all ages.

As regional growth looms, the City Council must proactively address our residents' needs. Here are steps to improve life and wellness:

Affordable Housing: Ensure affordable housing options for all residents.

Sustainable Transportation: Promote sustainable transit, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and cycling facilities.

Quality Education: Collaborate with local schools for top-tier education.

Environmental Stewardship: Implement eco-friendly policies to preserve our surroundings and encourage clean energy alternatives.

Community Engagement: Foster active community involvement, encouraging residents in local decisions and events.

Q: What are your top 3 priorities to work on in the city council if you win the election? How would you make efforts on your prioritized issues/projects during your 4-year tenure? Why are these issues critical to you, and why can you do better than your opponent on addressing these issues?

A: My top three priorities as a City Council member, if re-elected, reflect my commitment to Port Orchard's well-being:

Community Engagement: My first priority is to listen to the community's voice. Open channels like town hall meetings and online forums will ensure residents' input is heard and shape our city's future.

Smart Growth: I'll advocate for responsible growth, ensuring it pays for its impacts, like traffic improvements and parks.

Downtown Revitalization: Our downtown is vital. I'll work on streetscape improvements, community center investments, utility upgrades, public spaces, traffic flow, and pedestrian pathways.

These issues matter because they impact our residents' daily lives and Port Orchard's sustainability. My love for this city drives my commitment to community engagement. My experience and leadership on the City Council, along with a transportation-focused background, uniquely position me to address smart growth and infrastructure challenges. I've a history of collaborative success.

In conclusion, my priorities align with Port Orchard residents' needs. I'm committed to listening, smart growth, and enhancing our downtown and overall quality of life. My experience, dedication, and collaborative approach make me the best candidate to lead Port Orchard into a prosperous future.

Port Orchard City Council-Position 5

Heidi Fenton

Career experience: 30 years experience owning my own daycare business. Serve my community through volunteering and being a member of Rotary.

Q: Why are you running for City Council Position 5?

A: I believe, I am the best choice to be elected for City Council. I do not buy into ‘experience matters’, as we know prior ‘experience’ does not always mean good ‘experience’. I am not a politician, but rather someone who wishes to be a civil servant, a voice. I am a fresh set of eyes and perspective to a council I believe has lost its way and I will bring honesty and transparency back to our city council and make decisions that put the community first. I believe in service above self and want to instill that culture into our local governance.

Q: Some major development that could shape the future of Port Orchard includes Bethel and Sedgwick Corridor, Bay Street Improvements and a new community center. Do you agree with the directions the current city council is taking Port Orchard to in the long term, and why or why not? In addition, what are some other ways you would do in the city council to improve the everyday life and wellness of current and future Port Orchard residents as regional population growth is foreseeable?

A: It is crucial that roads and infrastructure match up with our growth, we need to make sure that a design is implemented in the right way. Safety for pedestrians and emergency vehicles that need to maneuver around the roundabouts is vitally important. Are we only doing roundabouts, because perhaps widening road lanes could also be beneficial.

A community center will be an asset for our community, especially if it provides new jobs, more people coming downtown and bringing in more revenue for the city, as well as enhancing our community.

Local businesses must be heard. I believe City Council must do a better job of communicating and connecting with local businesses. I believe I can be a bridge to do this, including having a successful conclusion to the Annapolis walkway, a much needed downtown asset.

We need to all work together for the betterment of our citizens in this regard. This begins with understanding and listening to the needs of our people, such as housing needs and adequacy, common city assets such as parks, schools and our downtown waterfront areas. These are important aspects to the quality of life for our residents.

Q: What are your top 3 priorities to work on in the city council if you win the election? How would you make efforts on your prioritized issues/projects during your 4-year tenure? Why are these issues critical to you, and why can you do better than your opponent on addressing these issues?

A: First and foremost, my priorities will be developed as I listen and respond to my constituents' concerns and needs.

As I sit here now, my top priority is repairing roads that need to be addressed for safety concerns.

Secondly, homelessness and adequate mental health services need improvement. We need to collaborate effectively with public agencies focused on these needs for our community.

Thirdly, it is overdue to finish our Annapolis pathway, we have dilapidated buildings along the waterfront which need to be addressed sooner than later to finish this project adequately for the homeowners and businesses along that pathway.

I am and will continue to be visible to our community, and to our local businesses. I am connected with businesses and with restaurant owners in our downtown, and I listen and am proactive to implement their voices that will help our city thrive. I truly stand to represent the people’s voice…..This is why I will be a better council member than my opponent.

Cindy Lucarelli

Career experience: I have a proven track record of experience with 29 years of business ownership and 12 years on the Council.

Q: Why are you running for City Council Position 5?

A: Having served on the Port Orchard City Council for nearly three terms, I have delivered on my commitment of time and service to our citizens. Currently, I am Chair of Utilities, the Sewer Advisory and The Festival of Chimes & Lights committees, requiring that we meet regularly, outside of council meetings, to stay informed and determine the priorities regarding issues within those realms. At present there are a number of important Utility capital projects in the works in which I have invested time and effort; and am looking forward to seeing each to fruition.

As Chair of the Festival of Chimes & Lights, I set the schedule, and with staff and the committee, organize the events that take place during the festival. This, in itself, is nearly a part time job during the busier months of the year. If you have experienced the Festival of Chimes & Lights, you know it is an annual holiday celebration that showcases local talent and the beauty of our natural setting.

That said, I have the experience and track record of delivering results to our city and citizens year after year.

Q: Some major development that could shape the future of Port Orchard includes Bethel and Sedgwick Corridor, Bay Street Improvements and a new community center. Do you agree with the directions the current city council is taking Port Orchard to in the long term, and why or why not? In addition, what are some other ways you would do in the city council to improve the everyday life and wellness of current and future Port Orchard residents as regional population growth is foreseeable?

A: Yes, I do agree with the direction we are taking to plan for the future of Port Orchard, as I was personally involved in that process. The Council guidelines, written during a council retreat, speak of honoring the past but planning for the future. We have spent years planning for future growth including which areas are most suitable for commercial, residential and recreational growth, taking into consideration the terrain and transportation corridors. The city boundaries may only expand as defined by our Urban Growth Area. The addition of the new Community Event Center will be a huge draw for our downtown and is one of several additions/improvements set to revitalize our waterfront.

Following closely will be a new bank building, adding an additional 50 jobs, and a public plaza that will allow our citizens to enjoy the beauty of our natural location.

Regarding improvements to the wellness of residents, we are looking to promote more medical facilities, shopping and recreational opportunities in the future. Many residents shop outside of our area, and it would serve us well to have some of these amenities closer to home. Supply and demand determine much of this, but we see opportunities expanding.

Q: What are your top 3 priorities to work on in the city council if you win the election? How would you make efforts on your prioritized issues/projects during your 4-year tenure? Why are these issues critical to you, and why can you do better than your opponent on addressing these issues?

A: 1. Supporting Law Enforcement:We must continue to support our police department so we can attract and retain qualified officers,  as well as revise legislative decisions that limit police pursuits. Providing necessary equipment and fair salaries are key to this effort. I have a track record of making law enforcement a priority.

2. Solving Transportation Issues:To ease congestion roundabout designs are now being planned for the intersections at Lincoln/Mitchell, Salmonberry/Bethel and Blueberry/Bethel. To afford this infrastructure investment, this work will be done in segments. Transportation plans are continually worked on, as is a constant search for funds. During my years on the council, I have repeatedly supported solutions for our transportation issues, one example being the completion of the Tremont Corridor.

3. Managing Utility Issues:Managing our water and sewer resources is extremely expensive and complex. A major concern in dealing with these expenses is not to overburden the citizens and yet still run the utility. Developers are required to absorb new developmental costs, but challenges remain in aging infrastructure and government mandates. I’ve been an advocate of the water rights needed to move forward with use of what will be our primary city well.

Port Orchard City Council – At-Large (2 years)

Kaylan O’Connor

Kaylan O'Connor didn't provide answers to the questions after multiple requests.

John Morrissey

Career experience: Kitsap RV General Manager. Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce chairman. Port Orchard city’s representative for the Kitsap Public Facilities District.

Q: Why are you running for City Council At-large?

A: I am running for city council because I want to make a difference for our city, our families, and our future. I imagine most people are like me…they want a flourishing community. They want clean, usable spaces like parks, trails, and roads. They want a healthy business community with options on where to spend their time and money. Over the past years, I’ve spent time raising my family, building my career, and working with leaders from all walks of life here in Kitsap. I’d like to put my experience to work for Port Orchard.

I want to provide transparent, approachable, and communicative leadership that will represent you in our local government. When it comes to distributing your tax dollars, I’ll be referring to the voice of my community. The key to responsible spending is to understand the needs of the constituents.

Port Orchard is a growing community. I want to ensure we bring new resources and thoughtful planning to our future growth as a community. My experience working with leaders throughout our footprint demonstrates my ability to build consensus and lead through any challenges facing our community. I am committed to supporting our city and enhancing our quality of life.

Q: Some major development that could shape the future of Port Orchard includes Bethel and Sedgwick Corridor, Bay Street Improvements and a new community center. Do you agree with the directions the current city council is taking Port Orchard to in the long term, and why or why not? In addition, what are some other ways you would do in the city council to improve the everyday life and wellness of current and future Port Orchard residents as regional population growth is foreseeable?

A: By and large, I believe that Port Orchard is moving in the right direction. We know that over 4,500 new housing units are slated to be built within the next 10 years. This will essentially double the population of our city. We must proactively and sustainably plan for this growth. We must ensure that we balance this growth in people, cars, infrastructure, etc. As a board member of the Kitsap Public Facilities District (the organization providing the largest chunk of funding for the Port Orchard Community Events Center), I am thrilled to see the Community and Events Center coming to Port Orchard. A small $12 million dollar investment has led to more than $165 million in investment in our downtown core. We need to continue to improve infrastructure and our downtown core.

Q: What are your top 3 priorities to work on in the city council if you win the election? How would you make efforts on your prioritized issues/projects during your 2-year tenure? Why are these issues critical to you, and why can you do better than your opponent on addressing these issues?

A: My top 3 priorities are to continue investing in our downtown core, setting the stage for long-term sustainable growth, and addressing affordable housing and homelessness. For our downtown core, I've already been part of bringing our community and events center to fruition with the KPFD and serving on the steering committee. Additionally, I've been part of the process to bring a Main Street Program to downtown Bremerton. I'd like to help bring that to Port Orchard as well. I will bring thoughtful leadership to our growth. We must balance our growth moving forward, as we need more housing, but not at the expense of all our existing taxpayers.

This article originally appeared on Kitsap Sun: Election 2023: Candidates up for four Port Orchard City Council seats