Jeff Rugan

A candidate for Spokane City Council, northwest district, City of Spokane in the 2019 Washington Primary Election, Aug. 6

Party: No party

Age: 43

City: Spokane, WA

Occupation: Commercial account manager for the job recruiting firm Express Employment Professionals

His words:  "“It’s very important to me, that my kids, and future city leaders grow up in that same kind of wholesome, family friendly environment that I did. Spokane is still a very compassionate city." 

His pitch: Professional experience helping Spokane residents find jobs will help Rugan, a first-time candidate, address the poverty that is driving a part of the city’s homelessness problem, he says. That includes working with those who live on the streets to determine what’s behind their living situation, whether it be addiction or short-term financial instability. Rugan also favors an increased police presence downtown, including a new downtown precinct, to discourage illegal behavior in public.

Work experience: Marketing Director for a dental firm; Radio Promotions for Capitol Records; Post Production for television and film in Hollywood.

Education: Completed coursework toward an associates degree at the Art Institute in Seattle. Graduated from Mead High School in 2000.

Political experience: Member of the Spokane Salary Review commission, the civilian panel that determines pay for elected officials. First run for political office.

Family: One son, and many brothers who grew up in Mead. 

Neighborhood: Audobon/Downriver