Tom For Mayor of Astoria
Prepared to Listen Ready to Lead
I believe good decisions begin with doing the homework and listening to the people the decisions affect. With eight years of previous experience serving on the Astoria City Council, I understand our city government's structure and its processes. I understand the importance of coming to the table prepared. My approach is collaborative: understanding the facts of the matter, listening to varying perspectives, looking for common ground, and working together toward practical solutions for Astoria.
Why I'm Running
I lived in Astoria as a child, and have been a north coast resident much of my life. For the last 20 years, I've lived in Astoria. My wife and I love it here. We want this town to be the best it can possibly be. I believe in civic engagement. It’s an important part of my life. It’s gratifying to be an active part of the community … work hard … be a positive influence. Our accomplishments lift us all up. Float all boats! My record of involvement in the community speaks for itself.
My 8 year tenure on City Council was recent enough that I can hit the ground running. I’ve kept up on Port of Astoria issues, as well.
I want the City of Astoria to serve Astorians well. There are some problems now that with some work, can be made better … make it easier for people who need things from the City to get the job done. I want to address these things, do the work, get these things ironed out.
I want more Astorians to understand what the City does for them, which is a lot, and feel satisfied and even proud of the City’s accomplishments. I can see that currently, the City’s accomplishments are not fully understood by Astorians.
I do my homework, read the codes, attend meetings, find out what’s being done in other communities about given problems, and I listen to what others think. I dig into the weeds, analyzing the information, and make decisions based on the facts. This is how I work, no matter what I’m doing.
I have the time and freedom to do this work. I’m fortunate enough to be retired, and in great health. I know that doing a great job at being Mayor of Astoria will take a lot of time.
What are your concerns?
Meet the Candidate
My wife Liz and I are avid sailors and divers. We love being outside.. We travel when we can, and we love coming home. Our Labradoodle Ursa puts up with us . I'm the father of 2 great kids, Dan and Elyse. I'm step-father to 3 more great kids, Nicki, Amery and Arlyn.
Qualifications
Public & Community Service
Astoria City Council, 8 years
2017-2024
Astoria Yacht Club Board, 12 years
John Day River Water Board,
4 years
Port of Astoria - Finance Committee, current
Astoria Yacht Club - Commodore, current
Friends of the Astoria Column Board, current
KMUN Programmer - Tom’s Random Jazz Sampler, current
Business & Professional Experience
Retired:
Small, local business owner
Quality Tools, Inc.
Cormorant Construction, LLC
Previous:
Makita, Regional Service Manager
Skil Power Tools, Service Center Manager
How I Lead
Prepared, research-driven, collaborative, facilitator, able to work with differing viewpoints to find common ground. I will always keep my own council. I will not have special interest groups or individuals directing me behind closed doors. I want to hear from everyone, serve everyone. Everyone. I also understand that I will not make all Astorians happy at all times. I can take it.
Campaign Platform
My platform is simple. Continue to make Astoria a better place to live, for everyone. Improve livability, business and other working environments. I will work with the City Manager at every opportunity to improve City services. Click Platform at the top of the page for more details.
Listening to Astoria
I'm listening to residents across Astoria about what is working, what needs attention, and where the City should focus its efforts. As those conversations continue, my priorities will be grounded in what I learn from doing the research, my experiences, and what I hear from the community. For these reasons, this webpage is likely to evolve during this campaign. Please stay in touch.