Matthew Tirman is running for the South Ward, District 3 seat on the Bainbridge Island City Council. His opponent is Theodore “Ted” Jones.
Name: Matthew Tirman
Campaign website: www.tirmanforbainbridge.com
Education: BS, Political Science, East Carolina University/ MA, International Relations, Lancaster University, UK
Professional experience: Chief Commercial Officer, PlanetRisk; Technology and consulting business owner; Speechwriter to US Military leadership & Environmental Advocate with USPIRG.
Q&A with Matthew Tirman
Council District 3, South Ward
1. Should building height restrictions be loosened in downtown Winslow to provide for greater density and affordable housing units?
Our affordable housing ordinance is broken and height restrictions are the least of our concerns. Due to weak density and affordable housing unit requirements, less than 5 affordable units (not including Ferncliff) have been built since 2010. I would support Inclusionary zoning in Winslow, amending our building codes, and limiting sprawl need to be the cornerstone of a revised housing ordinance. I also remain opposed to the development of the Suzuki property on numerous grounds.
2. Do you support the construction of a parking garage for downtown visitors, shoppers and workers? How should it be financed?
I look forward to the results of the downtown study; however, I do not believe a parking garage is necessary. Fiscal responsibility is at the core of my campaign, and I believe that if an Infrastructure ballot measure is put to voters it should focus on expanding non-motorized transport and safety enhancements as well as working with Kitsap Transit on expanding public transportation, not a parking structure that would put more cars on the road.
3. The scope and cost of the new police station have increased since it last went to a public vote. Should the newest proposal again go before voters for approval?
I am fully in support of a new facility for our police. I am, however, dismayed at the 144% price increase from the previous estimate and am equally concerned about unknown land acquisition cost. The City must reduce the cost and any proposal should go before voters, not a Councilmanic bond. Presently, Bainbridge Island residents have too little trust in City Council to allow for a seven-member vote on a multimillion-dollar debt issuance.
4. Many islanders have been shocked and saddened by the loss of trees, animal habitat and vegetation in the Highway 305 scenic corridor as construction has started on the first leg of the Sound to Olympics Trail. A growing number of islanders are concerned about future phases. Should the extension of the trail along the highway to Agate Passage go to a public vote?
I believe the proposed bridge over 305 is not the best use of taxpayer funds and am in favor of continuing the Sound to Olympics Trail, dependent on regional and federal fund availability. Once it crosses to the West side of 305, I would recommend it be narrowed and designed to minimize tree removal and keep more within the natural environment. Understanding the design, full costs, and scope is critical to maintaining public support.
5. Many council committee meetings are not open to the public. Should they be? Explain.
With the exception of the ad hoc Cultural Committee and state allowed executive sessions, I believe most meetings have been public and should remain so. Disconcerting is the lack of transparency into individual Councilmember votes and views. I would pledge to post each vote I take and post my views on the currently available Councilmember Blog on the City’s website, which has sadly been updated only twice in the past four years.
6. Complete this sentence: I will consider myself an effective council member if I …
Remain true to the reasons I ran. I, like many Islanders, am dissatisfied with the entrenched notions that occupy many current Council seats. We need representation from different walks of life, bringing new perspectives and are not predisposed to niche interests. I will fight for greater fiscal responsibility, expand dense affordable housing options, and work to protect our natural environment. Council needs to be transparent and accountable to residents. I promise to do just that.
