Tom Hodgson will run this November to retain his seat on the Kirkland City Council. He is vying for Position 7 along with John Smiley.

A longtime Kirkland resident and community-builder, Hodgson has worked for nearly 20 years bringing neighbors, businesses and schools together to preserve and enhance Kirkland’s unique character. 

His vision for Kirkland is to retain the qualities that make it the desirable place it is today.

“Development must be balanced and guided to enhance our valued quality of life. Our Comprehensive Plan and zoning codes must be observed and enforced to provide both residents and developers fair and predictable regulations,” says Hodgson.

As chair of the Council Housing Committee, he has worked to encourage construction of affordable housing. He supports alternative housing options such as cottages and mixed-use developments. One of his first actions as a council member was to fight for housing incentives for redevelopment in commercial areas.

Hodgson said, “This is a win-win, with developers maximizing return on investment and the city gaining efficient and affordable housing options.”

He believes transportation alternatives will help ease Kirkland’s traffic concerns. Hodgson is an avid bike rider and commuter and supports the completion of our non-motorized street grid.

“Safe alternatives to single-occupancy car trips is critical to working our way out of our traffic mess.”

He was a champion of the pedestrian freeway overpass at 100th street and Kirkland’s new Complete Streets Ordinance that includes pedestrian and bike facilities on all new road projects. He also served on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Rail Corridor Advisory Committee representing Kirkland. He is a strong voice for converting the abandoned rail line into a regional multi-use trail for recreation and bike commuters. 

Connecting neighbors with businesses, Hodgson served on the Totem Lake Task force and has supported redevelopment of Totem Lake Mall. 

“Totem Lake has a tremendous amount of revenue-generating potential for businesses. Developed appropriately, it can bring unique retail that will serve local consumers in exciting ways – a nice way to bridge economic vitality with valuable services for the community, ” says Hodgson. “Economic development will help pay the bills for Kirkland’s high level of service but can’t be an end in itself. Strong families are the best investment the city can make for its future. Encouraging local retail will provide the services families need and a strong revenue base for city services.”

“Kirkland is a city with great natural amenities and exciting possibilities. I have the experience, leadership and balance to ensure that Kirkland realizes its economic potential while preserving its livable character,” Tom maintains.

Hodgson runs again with support from the community including Kirkland Firefighters, Kirkland neighborhood leaders, and Kirkland City Police.