There is only one contested race in the Bainbridge Island Metro Park District for the Nov. 7 general election.

Tom Goodlin

I value our parks as a core element of quality of life on Bainbridge Island and support parkland development and robust programming to increase availability and utilization. I aim to encourage and support a more active, healthy, and engaged community through improving park infrastructure, expanding land holding and access, and furthering utilization and recreational opportunities. I have volunteered throughout my 25 years on Bainbridge, including on the Land Trust board, other nonprofit boards, and now two years as an elected park district commissioner.

Leading up to my 2021 election, I met with many park user groups and individuals to become informed on their ideas and concerns for the park district. I continue this very informative practice of listening to constituents’ opinions. The three top priorities I hear are to increase transparency for park district actions, expand trail access and implement facility improvements.

As commissioner, I’ve advocated for strong community outreach by staff in planning projects such as the Strawberry Hill bike park, skatepark, dog park, and potential lighted turf fields. I have been involved in trails planning and expanding the trails network; and I have advocated measured development at Sakai Park that includes a picnic shelter, playground and long-sought tennis downtown courts.

When Sakai Park improvements are complete next year, then Battle Point Park pickleball facilities can be expanded to 12 courts to meet surging needs. Excitingly, we are moving ahead with adding nine acres to Strawberry Hill Park, with other opportunities for parkland expansion on the horizon.

Melissa Timme

Hello, I’m Melissa Timme, mom of three school-aged children and a local business owner. I’m running for parks commissioner on Bainbridge Island because our community deserves a voice that represents the many needs of a disparate constituency.

Currently, our parks and recreation department lacks adequate representation for the many young families who enthusiastically engage in its programs. I understand the unique needs and interests of families like mine, who rely on our parks and recreational offerings.

While the pool is an important resource for the community, there are many issues that also need to be addressed in a fiscally responsible way. I’m not a single-issue candidate. My approach to serving our community will be informed by a commitment to data-driven decision-making, and active public engagement. I’ll work to ensure that our decisions consider the needs and values of all residents.

Last, I believe my ability to move issues through the decision-making process efficiently makes me uniquely qualified for this role. Too often, concerns languish for months or years. My leadership style is characterized by curiosity, active listening, direct communication and discipline. Sometimes a “no” is better than years of “maybe.”

Thank you for considering me as your parks commissioner. I look forward to working together for a stronger and more vibrant Bainbridge Island community.