Candidate Profile: Don Persson

Full name: Donald Richard Persson

Employer: Retired/ Renton City Council member

Born: in Seattle July 24, 1942

Live: 538 Renton Ave. So for 14 years

Married to: Vicky Persson

Children: one daughter, son in law & grand daughter

Education:  two year degree from Green River College, Graduate of F.B.I. National Academy

Military: Army 1964 to 1966 Honorable Discharge

Memberships: Member/ Past President  Renton Rotary,  Washington Chapter of F.B.I. National Academy Associates, Founding Board member/President of Renton River Days ,  Founding  board member of Communities in Schools of Renton, Founding member of Renton Police Officers Guild

Note: Renton Citizen of the Year & awarded Renton Police Departments,  Meritorious Service Award

Bankruptcy:  Never filed bankruptcy as a business or personal

Criminal history:  Never charged or convicted of any crime

Campaign Information

Web site: http://www.electdonpersson.com/

Email address: dvpersson@yahoo.com

Phone: (425) 271-6935

Campaign Manager:  Randy Corman

Phone: (425) 271-6913

Previous Elected Office

Elected to Renton City Council in 2000, 2004, 2008

Other campaigns:  Ran for Renton School Board in 1990, did not win

This Campaign:

What is the primary reason you are running for this office?

Through strong fiscal policies and by making difficult budget cuts, the city has been successful at preserving vital services for our citizens despite a workforce reduction of nearly 14% and millions of dollars in cost reductions. I want to continue working with city administrators to assure that the city remains financially stable as we work through several more years of challenging times.

What will be your top three priorities if you get elected and why?

My top three priorities include economic development to promote more local jobs and revitalization of the Highlands; public safety and financial stability.

Renton is positioned well for new development and business recruitment as the economy begins to improve. And I’m committed to see that we continue our efforts to revitalize the Highlands community. A good deal of private investment has already been made in the area and plans are underway to construct a new, state-of-the-art library in the community in conjunction with redevelopment plans for Sunset Terrace.

As a former police officer, I’m totally supportive of the city’s commitment to reduce crime and make our citizens feel safer throughout our city. It’s important that the council continue to provide the resources necessary to support the current enforcement efforts.

And in terms of financial stability, it’s important that we continue to find new ways of providing services while operating with fewer dollars. Like our local business owners and residents, we need to operate within in financial means, while exploring new ways of improving the quality of life for our citizens.

What sets you apart from the other candidate?

I have spent over 40 years in Renton, serving as a police officer and a longtime community volunteer. I work with many of the local service clubs in helping those less fortunate in our community, and have a complete understanding of the things that make our city a better place to live and raise a family. I also have the experience in local government that provides me with the insight to work effectively with other council members as we make important decisions that impact the future of our city.

How much money do you expect to your campaign to spend on this election?

$10,000