Montesano mayor registers with state to raise money for re-election

Mayor Vini Samuel sends out release saying she’s seeking re-election.

Montesano Mayor Vini Samuel is preparing to run for re-election.

She has filed paperwork with the state Public Disclosure Commission to start a re-election campaign. According to the PDC website, Samuel has agreed to not raise more than $5,000.

“I think we’re just hitting our stride in terms of fixing the roads, building sidewalks and forming partnerships with local businesses and non-profits,” Samuel said, according to a release she sent out Tuesday.

She served on the city council for eight years, including time as mayor pro tem, and has lived in Montesano and worked as an attorney in the county since 1997.

If she wins a second term, Samuel said she’ll focus on things that will last: new construction projects and new partnerships.

“We need a long-term plan for fixing and replacing streets and sidewalks,” Samuel said. “The eastern and western entrances to town need a face lift to match the beautiful new main entrance.”

The first day the Grays Harbor County Auditor’s Office can receive a declaration to run for mayor of Montesano or other office on the November ballot is April 29. In-person candidate filing begins May 13. The last day for all candidates to file for office is May 17.