King County Local Voters Pamphlet

Rich Crispo -

I want to increase the involvement of our residents in decisions affecting Newcastle. Many recent City Council actions have had minimal public input. Council decisions regarding a new City Logo and signage, budget priorities, elimination of funds for trails and open space, and a vision that more closely resembles downtown Bellevue than our current bedroom community are among them.

I want to see better expenditure control and accountability, more citizen input on major issues, enhancing the integration of Newcastle and nature through open space and trails, review of the downtown plan, and establishment of positive relations with downtown businesses and property owners.

I retired from Boeing after 28 years. I have managed yearly budgets in excess of $100M and directed organizations over 750 strong. I am currently active with the Newcastle Trails and Weed Warriors, Newcastle Chamber of Commerce, Director of my HOA, and a frequent contributor at Council meetings.

Larry Betsch -

The people who lead our city need to work together making crucial decisions impacting us all. I believe good government should listen and respond to the needs of our families, neighborhoods, and our current and future business partners with effective communication and strong leadership.

Now is the time to strengthen the financial condition of Newcastle. We must start budgeting by prioritizing spending in order to more efficiently allocate and measure the utilization of our limited tax resources. As a financial controller, I will bring the needed experience to the council and the leadership to work towards strengthening Newcastle’s financial future.

As we move forward from our current economic environment we must ensure that our development process is streamlined, nimble, and provides incentives for potential development that increases the tax base and protects our unique Newcastle community. I respectfully request your vote and will work each day to validate your trust.

Karin Blakley -

As a long-time Newcastle resident, community leader, UW graduate and mom, I have both a commitment to our area and the skills to serve you well. My 25 years of business experience, most recently in management and finance, provides the fiscal know-how I will need to develop a responsible city budget in these tough times. Leadership roles on the boards of numerous nonprofits in areas such as transportation, education and disabilities, provides me with a broad perspective that will help with other city issues as well. During my professional life, I have learned that to achieve success you must establish a vision and work collaboratively to achieve that vision. I will use that same formula for success to enhance the livability of our city, encourage a vibrant downtown retail center, and maintain fiscal responsibility. I look forward to serving the residents of Newcastle.