Dedicated to the citizens of Mason County, Washington since 1886
Dedicated to the citizens of Mason County, Washington since 1886
City has $40M budget
Shelton Police Chief Carole Beason, left, talks to Shelton City Council member Kathy McDowell on April 25 at the Shelton Civic Center. McDowell said she is seeking re-election in November, while fellow council members James Boad and Deidre Peterson said they will not.
So, you want to serve on the Shelton City Council?
May 15 to 19 is the time to file for one of the three council positions open on the November election ballot. On April 25, about two dozen potential candidates attended a "City Government 101" presentation at the Shelton Civic Center to get a better understanding about the position, and how the city departments function.
Seven city officials gave presentations on their duties. Interim City Manager Mark Ziegler began by outlining some basics about the council. All seven members serve in at-large positions, not specific zones in the city. The council meets at 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of the month for regular meetings, the second and fourth Tuesdays for work and study sessions. Council members are paid $500 a month.
Ziegler explained that the council gives directions to the city manager, who administers the daily operations of city government. Every two years, the council selects a member to serve as mayor.
City Clerk Donna Nault explained she acts as a liaison between Shelton residents and their city government. Starting his second term, Municipal Court Judge Stephen Greer pointed out he was nominated by the city manager and approved by the city council.
Public Works Director Jay Harris referred to Shelton as "a city of hills." His department's duties include maintaining and operating two wastewater treatment plants and five wastewater lift stations. Finance director Mike Githens pointed out the city's 2023 budget is $40.4 million.
Ziegler, speaking as manager of the Parks and Recreation Department, said the department developed and maintains 32 acres of parks and 118 acres of trails and open space. Police Chief Carole Beason said her department has 19 full-time positions.
Two of the three Shelton City Council members whose four-year terms expire at the end of the year say they will not run for re-election.
Deidre Peterson and James Boad said they don't plan to seek new terms on the Nov. 7 ballot. Kathy McDowell, the longest serving member whose tenure stretches back to the three-member Shelton City Commission, said she plans to run for another term.
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