Josh Penner

Josh Penner was born in Seattle, Washington. Penner's career experience includes working as an entrepreneur. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Penner earned a graduate degree from Harvard University and a bachelor's degree from St. Martin's University in 2009.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am Josh Penner, the current Mayor of Orting, Washington, and a dedicated public servant with a strong commitment to community development and public safety. I grew up in Bonney Lake, graduated from Sumner High School, married my high school sweetheart, and volunteered for the Marine Corps, serving in Iraq. As Mayor, I have focused on enhancing the quality of life for our residents through numerous initiatives, including public safety improvements, disaster preparedness, and fiscal responsibility. My leadership has strengthened our police and fire services, supported local businesses, and promoted job creation. I have prioritized infrastructure upgrades and long-term sustainability, ensuring Orting is well-equipped for the future.

With a pragmatic approach to governance, I believe in practical solutions and engagement. I have a proven track record of balancing fiscal responsibility with addressing community needs. My approach to governance emphasizes transparency, citizen involvement, and open communication.

Now, as I run for the state legislature in Washington's 31st Legislative District, I aim to bring my experience and dedication to a broader stage. My campaign focuses on key issues that I can uniquely address: public safety, infrastructure improvements, education, and sustainable economic development. I am committed to building practical solutions that benefit all residents of our district.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

As Mayor of Orting, I have demonstrated effective leadership by balancing budgets, enhancing public safety, and supporting a fast-growing community while upholding our core values of hard work, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement. My record of practical solutions and collaboration with both parties showcases my dedication to building a safer, stronger community. I will bring this same commitment and proven leadership to the state legislature to represent you effectively.I am deeply committed to fostering a robust local economy that provides ample opportunities for job creation and business growth. By supporting small businesses, attracting new investments, and creating a business-friendly environment, I aim to promote economic prosperity for all residents. My approach emphasizes predictability, communication, and excellent customer service to ensure a thriving economy. I will work to bring these principles to the state legislature to drive sustainable economic growth and create jobs for our community.I believe that a strong education system is vital for the success of our communities. I am committed to adequately funding schools, supporting teachers, and providing quality education to break the cycle of poverty and encourage entrepreneurship. Additionally, ensuring public safety is a top priority. I have a proven track record of improving public safety and disaster preparedness as Mayor. In the state legislature, I will continue to advocate for both quality education and robust public safety measures to create a secure and prosperous future for our community.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Public Safety

Ensuring the safety and security of our communities is a top priority. I am committed to supporting law enforcement, enhancing disaster preparedness, and implementing policies that reduce crime.

Infrastructure and Sustainability

Investing in infrastructure is crucial for sustainable growth. I will focus on improving roads, utilities, and public transportation, while advocating for practices that protect our environment and enhance resilience against natural disasters.

Local Empowerment and Governance

Local communities should have the power to make decisions that reflect their unique needs. I will empower local governments, promote citizen involvement, and ensure transparency and accountability in governance.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity and Accountability

Honesty, transparency, and a strong moral compass are essential. Elected officials must be trustworthy and take responsibility for their actions and decisions.

Empathy and Community Focus

Understanding and addressing the needs and concerns of constituents is crucial. Empathy helps officials connect with and effectively serve their communities.

Commitment to Practical Solutions

A practical approach to problem-solving is vital. Elected officials should focus on finding workable solutions and be willing to collaborate across party lines.

Vision and Leadership

Having a clear and forward-thinking vision for the future helps in setting goals and developing policies that promote long-term prosperity and well-being. Strong leadership skills, including the ability to inspire and motivate others, make informed decisions, and guide the community toward shared goals, are crucial for an effective elected official.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

As a prospective lawmaker, my primary responsibility will be to develop, debate, and vote on legislation that addresses the needs and concerns of both my constituents and the state. I am committed to crafting laws that reflect the best interests of the community, ensuring that policies are not only effective but also equitable. Budget oversight is a crucial part of this role, where I will strive to allocate state funds responsibly, balancing fiscal responsibility with the necessity of meeting community needs.

Advocating for my constituents' interests is at the heart of my duties. This means actively representing their concerns in legislative debates and decision-making processes. I am dedicated to providing support and resources to help constituents navigate state services and address their issues effectively.

Public safety will be a top priority, and I will work to support laws and initiatives that enhance safety, bolster law enforcement, and improve disaster preparedness. I am passionate about advocating for policies that foster economic growth, create jobs, and support local businesses, ensuring a robust and thriving economy. Improving and maintaining essential infrastructure, such as roads, utilities, and public transportation, is vital for sustainable community development. Additionally, I am committed to ensuring adequate funding and support for schools, teachers, and students to provide quality education that empowers future generations.

Effective communication with constituents is essential. I will maintain open lines of communication through town halls, newsletters, and social media to keep the community informed and engaged. Encouraging and facilitating citizen participation in the legislative process and community decision-making will be a priority, ensuring that their voices are heard and considered.

Integrity and accountability are fundamental principles I will uphold as a lawmaker.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Others like me, with similar backgrounds, will one day see themselves doing greater things than I was able to.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

First one I remember was watching George Bush (Sr) get sworn-in via a very poor reception tv in my first grade classroom. It was 1989 - and he seemed ancient to me at the time.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

KFC - Cook in Puyallup - then in Bonney Lake when that store opened. About a year later I helped the local Godfatehr's Pizza open and worked there for the better part of ten years - delivering Pizzas while oging to college.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I've always liked DUNE. The political intrigue. The romance. The Sci-Fi. The Fantasy. The Thriller. It's got everything. And what I really appreciate is that when you read Frank Herbert's early drafts of the book, it changed so much through the writing process. You really get a feel for the artisitc process when you dig into a favorite piece of art.

Bonus, my daughter and I love Dune Park in Tacoma.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Duncan Idaho, of course.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

I believe that the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be characterized by collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to serving the best interests of the citizens. Here’s what that relationship should entail:

Collaboration and Cooperation

The governor and the state legislature should work together as partners in governance. This involves regular communication, joint problem-solving, and a willingness to find common ground on key issues. By collaborating effectively, they can create comprehensive policies that address the state’s needs and challenges.

Mutual Respect

Both the governor and the legislature must respect each other’s roles and responsibilities. The governor, as the executive leader, implements and enforces laws, while the legislature creates and passes those laws. Recognizing and valuing each other’s contributions fosters a more productive working relationship.

Open Communication

Regular and open communication is crucial for a healthy relationship. The governor and legislative leaders should meet frequently to discuss priorities, share information, and coordinate efforts. This transparency helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that both branches are aligned in their goals.

Checks and Balances

A system of checks and balances is essential to maintain accountability and prevent the concentration of power. The legislature should provide oversight of the executive branch, while the governor should have the ability to veto legislation if necessary. This balance ensures that both branches remain accountable to the people they serve.

Shared Commitment to Public Service

Both the governor and the legislature should be united by a common goal: serving the best interests of the state’s citizens. This shared commitment should guide their actions and decisions, encouraging them to put aside differences and work together for the greater good.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Housing affordability is a pressing issue across Washington State. Rapid population growth has driven up housing costs, making it difficult for many residents to find affordable homes. The rising cost of living has also contributed to an increase in homelessness. Addressing these issues requires increasing the supply of housing. Policies that streamline the permitting process and incentivize the development of diverse housing options are essential.

Infrastructure

Improving infrastructure is crucial for supporting Washington’s growing population and economy. The state’s roads, bridges, and utilities need significant investment to ensure they can handle current and future demands. Addressing traffic congestion, particularly in my district, is vital for maintaining economic productivity and quality of life. Additionally, ensuring the resilience of infrastructure against natural disasters, such as earthquakes and flooding, is essential for public safety. Strategic investments in infrastructure will support long-term growth and sustainability.

Economic Growth and Job Creation

Sustaining economic growth and creating jobs across diverse sectors are key priorities for Washington State. While the tech industry thrives in areas like Seattle, other regions need economic diversification to ensure balanced growth. Supporting small businesses, fostering innovation, and providing workforce training will be crucial components of this strategy. Ensuring that all regions of the state benefit from economic development efforts will help reduce disparities and promote statewide prosperity.

Education Outcomes

Improving education outcomes is fundamental to Washington’s long-term success. Ensuring that schools are adequately funded, decisions are made locally, and that teachers are supported is essential for providing quality education.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

yes.

What committees interest you?

Transportation

Transportation is a vital area that directly impacts economic growth, public safety, and quality of life. As Mayor of Orting, I have seen firsthand the importance of maintaining and improving infrastructure to support a growing community. I am passionate about ensuring road safety, addressing congestion issues, and advocating for sustainable infrastructure solutions that enhance connectivity and support economic development.

Finance

Finance is at the core of effective governance. My experience in balancing budgets and ensuring fiscal responsibility as Mayor has prepared me to contribute to the Finance Committee. I am committed to the responsible allocation of state funds, promoting transparency, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently to meet community needs. My goal is to support policies that foster economic growth, create jobs, and maintain a balanced and sustainable budget.

Local Government

Local Government is where policies directly touch the lives of citizens. My extensive experience in local governance, including serving as Mayor and Councilmember, has given me a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by local communities. I am passionate about empowering local governments, promoting citizen involvement, and ensuring that state policies support the unique needs of each community. On this committee, I would advocate for initiatives that enhance local governance, improve public services, and foster community development.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe that financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental principles essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring effective governance.

Financial transparency involves making government budgets accessible and understandable to the public, providing clear explanations of how funds are allocated and spent. This openness allows citizens to see exactly where their tax dollars are going, fostering trust and accountability.

Government accountability means elected officials and public servants are answerable to the people they serve. Ethical conduct is a cornerstone of this accountability. Officials must adhere to the highest standards of ethics and integrity, making decisions based on the public good and avoiding conflicts of interest. Transparency in decision-making is also vital, allowing for public input and scrutiny. Holding public meetings and providing detailed explanations for policy decisions help ensure that government actions reflect the will and best interests of the people.

Josh Penner did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2020 Candidate Connection survey.