Cheney candidates speak
More than 100 residents gathered in Cheney on Oct. 19 to hear candidates for City Council offices and the mayor’s position.
A spirit of affability prevailed in the Wren Pierson Building as all contenders agreed on the importance of valuing input from the community. Each, in slightly different words, repeated that refrain.
Mayor’s race
Two-term Mayor Amy Jo Sooy spoke of considerable achievements on her watch.
“My main goal is to improve our economic base so we can provide for our community through managed growth instead of increasing taxes,” she said. She noted the challenges brought about by statewide initiatives and of improving city services with less funding.
Challenger Allan Gainer cited his education and experience in business management. Gainer also stressed his positive outlook and ability to work with people.
“Just ask my employees at Tree of Knowledge bookstore,” he said.
He complimented Sooy on her success in working with Eastern Washington University on various projects.
City Council Position 7
Tom Trulove, campaigning for City Council Position 7, was the veteran politician of the group, with many years of state, regional and local offices, including a nine-year stint as Cheney mayor from 1978 to 1986.
He listed five key issues: Listen to the community’s priorities, increase revenues, economic development, emphasize single-family development and keep the “crown jewel” – the light department.
Trulove’s opponent, Tim Gainer (Allan Gainer’s brother) spoke of his 20-year business experience in the Cheney community. He agreed that the city “must keep the light department and stop a 9 percent increase in billing.”
He also suggested the creation of a community recreation center.
City Council Position 4
Incumbent Teresa Overhauser will be West Plains Chamber of Commerce president next year. She pressed for economic development by recruiting large industry and small retail businesses.
“My council role is to study, to question, to listen thoughtfully and … make uncomfortable decisions that I know cannot satisfy everyone,” she said.
Her challenger, John Dyer, was not present.
City Council Position 3
Jim Wallingford, running for Position 3, is a detective for the Cheney Police Department. He spoke of the need for more police officers, reminding the audience the police force has grown by only one person in 20 years, despite Cheney’s growth.
Position 3 incumbent Michael McKeehan said he leads by seeking opportunities to maintain essential and desired services.
“I am an ardent supporter of the park programs for children and adults,” he said. He noted that during his tenure Cheney has maintained police and fire services without the cuts faced by neighboring cities.
He has been active as a school coach and teacher and served on the Planning Commission.
The third candidate for Position 3, EWU student Ray Gawenit, was not present.