Part 2: Council candidates answer questions - Edmonds Beacon
This is part 2 of the Beacon’s Q&A with the candidates running for Position 3 on Edmonds City Council.
The Aug. 5 primary election will determine the two candidates moving on to the Nov. 4 general election. Two City Council seats are already set. Glena Krull and incumbent Chris Eck will advance to the general election for Position 1, as the top two finishers automatically qualify. Also moving on are challenger Jessica Bachmann and incumbent Will Chen for Position 2.
Council President Neil Tibbott is vacating his Position 3 seat, which has three candidates. They are Joseph Ademofe, Erika Barnett, and Alex Newman.
The Beacon supplied the same questions to each candidate, with a limit of 150 words per answer. We are listing their replies in alphabetical order according to last name.
Edmond Beacon: What do you see as the top 3 priorities for the City, and why?
Joseph Ademofe: First, elected officials and City staff should ensure the rebuilding of trust between them and residents. By mending such a relationship, it would boost residents’ civic engagement levels. Second, it is imperative for the levy lid lift proposition to be enacted to resolve the fiscal emergency confronting us. Furthermore, it would be helpful to generate funds from non-property tax revenue. Third, diversification of our revenue streams should be the ultimate priority of our overall objective.
This financial crisis did not start yesterday or last year, but over a decade ago. As a result, we shouldn’t anticipate resolving it instantaneously, but gradually. It will take some years before this plan comes to fruition. That is, transitioning from decades of a budget-based tax to a rate-based tax revenue will take time. If we are patient enough to let the process take its course, it will be beneficial to our economy in the long run.
Erika Barnett: Public safety and livability: I want a community where families feel safe and supported. That means strong emergency services, mental health resources, and walkable streets.
Fiscal responsibility: I’ve managed large corporate budgets and small-business payroll.
I’ll work to fix inefficiencies and make every dollar go further.
Smart, sustainable growth: Growth is inevitable. We need to guide it in a way that protects Edmonds’ charm, respects the environment, and maintains infrastructure.
This work isn’t just about politics or policy – it’s about people. Putting people at the center of every decision means understanding where our money goes and what we’re getting for it.
It means fixing inefficiencies rather than slashing services, and seeking outside funding to ease the burden on residents. It also means listening, being transparent, and bringing the community into the process. Edmonds deserves leadership that’s kind, practical, inclusive, and focused on the future.
Alex Newman: 1. Protecting public services and public safety, including our emergency response abilities. Everyone deserves safe neighborhoods and quick, effective responses to crime and medical emergencies.
2. Increasing affordability to make Edmonds livable for seniors in fixed incomes and working families. No one should be priced out of their home, especially not those who want to age in place without leaving their community behind.
3. Protecting our environment to keep our parks public, preserve our unique ecosystems, and reduce our carbon output. I’ve seen when communities give up their public lands and don’t take the impacts of climate change seriously, they can lose everything.
Beacon: What is your age? Do you presently work? City Council requires a significant time commitment – typically full meetings or committee meetings every week – as well as reading prep prior to meetings. How will this fit in with your other commitments?
Joseph Ademofe: I am 40 years old and employed full time. The City Council commitment would not conflict with my other obligations. I have built my schedule in a way that allows me to be available for this commitment.
Barnett: I’m 52. I co-own Salish Sea Brewing Company and serve in a flexible leadership role, which gives me the capacity to fully commit to council responsibilities. I’ve already adjusted my schedule to make this work a top priority. In addition to running a business, I’ve helped lead community-wide economic and civic efforts, including supporting local nonprofits like the Foundation for Edmonds School District, the Boys and Girls Club, and others. I’m ready to serve in a way that reflects both professional discipline and deep community care.
Newman: I’m 26 and serve as executive director of the American Red Cross serving Northwest Washington. My role has prepared me to manage complex commitments with professionalism and focus. I’m fully ready to dedicate the time and experience needed to serve on City Council.
Beacon: Feel free, if you wish, to provide anything else – family, hobbies, etc.
Barnett: I’m a longtime Edmonds resident, a mom of two, and a dedicated community volunteer. Through our business, we’ve hosted fundraisers for school arts programs, supported local nonprofits, and opened our doors for civic and cultural events.
My background in business development taught me how to build partnerships, attract investment, and expand opportunities – skills I believe are critically needed as Edmonds looks for creative ways to strengthen our economy beyond raising taxes. I know what it means to invest in people and place – and I’ll bring that same commitment to City Hall.
Newman: My partner Abbey and I are proud of Edmonds every day because of our parks, natural beauty, and strong sense of community. In my spare time, I read lots of books, cook for friends, serve on the board for the Emergency Food and Shelter Program of Snohomish County, and volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters. I’m committed to service, accountability, and working hard for a city that has given so much to me.