A joint Kenai and Soldotna Chamber luncheon on Wednesday housed a forum between two candidates for Kenai Peninsula Borough Mayor, Linda Farnsworth-Hutchings and incumbent Charlie Pierce.
The Mayor was asked what he has done to help lead the borough out of the COVID-19 public health emergency: “I was the individual that took the lead in March, following the Governor reducing some of his mandates, I was out on the streets the very next day saying that I believe we’re all essential. I don’t believe one business is more important than the other. I believe we’re open for business, and I believe that’s the best way to save our businesses, is to continue to keep government out and off of the backs of the individuals in the way of taxation and the growth of government. Our real jobs are created in the private sector.”
Farnsworth-Hutchings was asked what ideas she has to improve the economy for the next few years: “This is something each community is very invested in – getting back to work. They are getting back to work by social distancing and being respectful of others. I think that there are so many opportunities that could be enhanced that have been left by the wayside, and I would hope to be able to handle that.”
Mayor Pierce commented on the issues he could have handled differently over the past three years as mayor: “Maybe having more time, opportunity to evaluate conditions and circumstances, and gathering better information, would have created better outcomes, but I would say – overall – I have been up to the task. I have enjoyed the opportunities, the variety, and the daily exchange of ideas and processes and I have certainly learned along the way. I will continue to do that.”
Farnsworth-Hutchings says she would handle things “completely differently,” pushing for improved support throughout the entire administration, referring to other jobs she has had where the manager and employees were able to get along to collaborate effectively.
The two found some common ground when it came to taxation, such as with regards to seasonal non-prepared food items. Both addressed complaints about the taxes by reflecting upon the necessity of those funds, as well as the idea that those most impacted by the taxes should already be eligible for state and federal food support programs that exempt them from those taxes.
When asked about the arrival of a COVID-19 vaccination, Mayor Pierce said he is confident in the Office of Emergency Management to keep residents aware of the steps to take when a vaccination arrives. Farnsworth-Hutchings made it a point to declare that she would not seek to declare it mandatory for residents to be vaccinated.
In their closing remarks, Mayor Pierce led with the message that “if it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” Farnsworth-Hutchings referenced the lifestyle of homesteaders, saying she wants to see a similar style of leadership in the Kenai Peninsula Borough.
