Editor’s Note: Cheryl Turner is a candidate for mayor of Cosmopolis. Candidate questionnaires from the other three candidates in the Primary Election appeared Saturday, but Turner’s wasn’t submitted until Sunday.

Cheryl Turner

Occupation: Customer Service Specialist with the office of the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.

Relevant experience: City of Cosmopolis Deputy Clerk and Finance Director 1996-2017. Served as Clerk of the Board for Cosmopolis’ mayor and city council, as well as the city’s Civil Service, Board of Adjustment, Planning Commission and the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board.

1. What are your views on the proposed construction of a new City Hall/Police Department/Court building for the city?

I support the proposed building. A new City Campus structure is desperately needed. Such a facility will house not only the police department, but also city hall and Cosmopolis’ municipal court. Having previously worked 21 years at City Hall, we worked diligently to secure, budget and repay the bonds used for construction and purchasing of the current fire facility. It’s time to take the next step in ensuring our infrastructure is keeping up with the growth and overall needs of the City, in addition to providing an appropriate, efficient and safe working environment for staff and as well as patrons.

2. What are your ideas for addressing infrastructure issues in Cosmopolis (streets, sidewalks, city staffing, etc.)?

Cosmopolis has excellent Public Works staff who regularly review the City’s needs relating to street and sidewalk maintenance. The City has been successful in receiving millions of dollars through State Surface Transportation funding for our downtown area. As Mayor, I will work with the City’s staff to seek local sources of funding while leveraging other regional dollars to bring further improvements to fruition. Existing city staff serves the citizens in an excellent manner and I would continue supporting the current employees wherever and however possible.

3. What would you consider to be the most pressing issue facing the next Mayor of Cosmopolis?

Financial stability is the most pressing issue. Having been employed by the City during the pulp mill closure and subsequent economic recession; building the City’s reserves and ensuring a strong financial future is paramount. As Mayor, I will work diligently with the city council and staff to plan and prioritize the ongoing needs of the City as we look forward to 2020 and beyond.