Mercer Island’s next primary election is just around the corner on August 4th. Learn more about City Council and School Board candidates below. The top two vote earners will appear on November general election ballot.
The following candidate information is available in the King County Official Local Voters Pamphlet:
Candidates for the Mercer Island City Council – Position No. 7
Darren Gold
Education: J.D., M.S. Computer Science, UC Davis; B.A. Economics, B.S. Engineering Mathematics and Statistics, UC Berkeley
Occupation: Patent Portfolio Manager, The Boeing Company
Statement:
My family moved to Mercer Island two years ago. We chose Mercer Island because, for those that choose to make it home, it offers an unmatched quality of life. We love the Farmers Market and picking summer blackberries. The schools are exceptional. The parks are beautiful and child friendly.
Our leaders must protect our community’s quality of life and stand up to outside interests. Without our leaders’ vigilance, Mercer Island’s special qualities will be permanently lost. I will protect our quality of life. Change is inevitable, and when managed wisely and sustainably, it can be beneficial.
My campaign therefore focuses on managing town center and population growth wisely, growing small business, improving zoning codes, funding schools properly, sustaining open space for future generations, protecting islanders from tolling I-90, guaranteeing proper compensation for regional impacts to Mercer Island and shielding Mercer Island from becoming a regional transit hub. Join me.
For more information:
8429 SE 39TH ST
MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040
[email protected]
Traci Granbois
Education: B.A.S. Systems Engineering, University of Pennsylvania; Law Degree, Pepperdine University; Master in Law, Taxation, UW
Occupation: Contract attorney, licensed in WA and CA. Licensed patent attorney.
Statement:
I grew up on Mercer Island and returned to start a family because of the fantastic quality of life, schools, and sense of community. I have deep roots in the community and as a new mother, I am passionate about preserving the Island’s special character.
We are a gem, uniquely situated between two large metropolises. Let’s focus on our strengths and enhance the values that we hold so dear.
Our continued success is dependent upon fiscal responsibility and living within our means. We need to prioritize accordingly. The threat of tolling persists. I will remain vigilant in resisting tolling, at all levels of policy making.
Trust in government is only earned through open and transparent policies. I support government transparency as the only way to conduct the peoples’ business. It would be my honor to serve as your council member.
I humbly ask for your support and vote. Thank you.
For more information:
8440 SE 82ND STREET
MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040
(206) 920-6775
[email protected]
Debbie Bertlin
Education: MIHS; Stanford University, BA Sociology, MA Sociology, Comparative Economics; University Sussex, MA East European History
Occupation: Microsoft Enterprise Strategy, Operations Lead; 25 years international technology sales
Statement:
I have been honored to serve as your Council member since 2011. As part of a multi-generational Mercer Island family, I appreciate the importance of continuing Island traditions while ensuring quality of life for future generations.
I bring extensive community experience, proven partnership with our education community, and leadership in working with regional organizations. I have consistently, effectively promoted an Island-wide perspective. During my term, I advanced Island safety with a south end Fire Station, held off I-90 tolling, implemented the Island’s first accessible playground at Luther Burbank, and supported fully-funding school counselors. I will continue to engage with community members as we address future challenges and opportunities, including revising Town Center development strategies; improving access to transit, parking and multi-modal transportation; modernizing our utility infrastructure; and preserving our parks and open spaces.
I look forward to continuing my constructive, effective approach to City issues. Thank you for your support.
For more information:
PO BOX 1534
MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040
(206) 245-8003
[email protected]
Candidates for the Mercer Island School District – Position No. 3
Adrienne Rohrich
Education: B.S. Chemistry from The University of Arizona; Ph.D. Physical Chemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Occupation: Manager of Instrumentation Facility and scientist at University of Washington
Statement:
Mercer Island schools are great, but we can improve them. As a scientist, I advocate for a strong math curriculum and an evidence-based science curriculum. As a proud band mom, I advocate for the arts in our schools. With nearly 20 years experience teaching students K-12 and at the university level, I have a unique perspective on the learning experience.
My children attended elementary and middle school in another school district and have attended elementary, middle, and high school on Mercer Island. I bring the valuable perspective of having children who attended school in different districts and knowledge of what we do well and what we do not in comparison. In addition, I parent students in the E2, IEP/504, and honors programs.
If I am elected to the school board, I will find creative solutions for improvement with finite resources and make decisions based in evidence.
For more information:
2836 78TH AVE SE, #405
MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040
(206) 681-0915
[email protected]
Bill Hochberg
Education: MIHS; BA, University of Puget Sound; JD, University of Washington
Occupation: Attorney assisting injured persons and workers
Statement:
As a long-time resident of Mercer Island, a community volunteer and product of our world-class schools, I am proud to raise my daughters here. Annie attends IMS and Sarah is at Lakeridge. I will work to meet the needs of all the students on the Island and have our schools remain outstanding.
I have been active in Island issues beginning with the Recycling Center, as Chair of the Park Board and helping pass our park bond, and as a member of the MI school levy/bond committees.
There are several critical issues facing the school district: school construction, impact fees, and selecting the next superintendent. Moreover, the funding of basic education for our schools requires vigilance from our Board members to ensure MI schools do not suffer from a poorly devised state plan. I have the experience to work effectively on these issues.
Endorsed by both Representatives Senn and Clibborn
For more information:
7683 SE 27TH STREET, BOX 147
MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040
(206) 380-5664
[email protected]
Tracy Drinkwater
Education: Bachelor’s in Economics, UCSB; MBA, Thunderbird School of International Management; Master’s in Teaching, Seattle University
Occupation: Educational Consultant and Tutor (self-employed)
Statement:
As a resident of Mercer Island for 15 years and the parent/step-parent of 3 children with unique learning styles, I appreciate the outstanding educational environment of our community. My interest in serving on the School Board is driven by a passion for quality education for all students.
My background is in business, technology and education. I am a former Math and Special Education teacher at Mercer Island Middle School, a current Educational Consultant, the Chair of MI Youth and Family Services Communities That Care Coalition, and community volunteer. My experience and insight would all bring a valuable perspective to our School Board.
I am someone who strives for excellence, is open to community input, and will advocate for Mercer Island Schools at the local and state level. It would be an honor to serve as a member of our School Board. Please visit my website at www.drinkwater4schools.org for more information.
For more information:
PO BOX 282
MERCER ISLAND, WA 98040
(206) 579-5818
[email protected]
