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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Holmes touts his record as leader


Holmes
 (The Spokesman-Review)

After 22 years in Rathdrum, the last four as a city councilman, Vic Holmes is vying to become the community’s next mayor.

He’s running on his “proven leadership” skills, which he said are a testament to his dedication and involvement in the city.

Holmes has served as a member of the Kootenai Metropolitan Planning Organization, former president and vice president of the Rathdrum Chamber of Commerce, vice president of the Rathdrum Lion’s Club, a member of the Rathdrum revitalization and future land use committee, an elected official on the GEM Community Board, and a participant in Rathdrum Days, December D-lights activities and the Fall Heritage Festival.

He owns and manages Rathdrum-based Eagle Garage Doors. For years, he’s coached and been a referee for youth football, basketball and Little League.

If elected, Holmes said he’d encourage further growth in and around Rathdrum.

“Someday, and hopefully soon, we’ll have all the services that make us self-supporting,” he said.

Before that can happen, Rathdrum’s infrastructure needs to be improved and enlarged, he said.

“We need to start planning now, and we’ve got to put some money away for building infrastructure. City Hall is fairly close to capacity and the Police Department (headquarters) is at capacity,” he said.

Still, he said he’d keep an eye on the city budget.

“We need to do a better job clarifying where the money is spent for taxpayers,” Holmes said.

To increase understanding between residents and the city, Holmes said he’d hold a series of workshops where city staff could outline their department’s mission, accomplishments and operational obstacles.

Holmes said his strength lies in his ability to build consensus.

“I think I’m the one candidate who’s proven to have a level head and can (align) different ideas so we can come to common ground,” he said.