By Friends of Will | Press Release
Edmonds, Wash., February 28, 2021 – Will Chen, Edmonds resident and business owner, has formally announced his intent to run for Edmonds City Council Position 2.
Chen’s decision to run is motivated by a desire and commitment to add diversity, passion and practical experience to the council at a time when communities and businesses across the nation are struggling to address socio-systemic inequities and financial hardships from the impacts of the pandemic. He will focus on connecting with and serving ALL members of the Edmonds community regardless of background, political party preference or socio-economic standing.
“Edmonds is a culturally rich community and more ethnically diverse than folks might realize. While our diversity is a strength, the truth is, we have neighbors who need help to access city services, secure housing and address food insecurity and be engaged in the civic process. I believe I am uniquely qualified to represent these issues and act as a voice for those who often get overlooked,” said Chen.
A CPA and Hwy 99 business owner, Will Chen has the practical experience necessary to evaluate the wants and needs of the community and the financial experience necessary to ensure that the city remains fiscally responsible in addressing those needs.
When elected, Will Chen would break the political “glass ceiling” by being the first first-generation Chinese American to serve on the Edmonds City Council.
Councilmember Vivian Olson agrees. “His candidacy makes Edmonds’ government relevant to a population that has not previously engaged.”
She endorses Will Chen’s candidacy with excitement, saying he checks all of the boxes: good judgment, independence, and ability to unify.
She continues, “With the Hwy 99 revitalization project front and center, it will be of great value to have Will, a Hwy 99-adjacent resident and business owner, on Edmonds City Council.”
Olson also points out that Chen is an experienced accountant and auditor, able to offer invaluable expertise on the finance committee and during the all-important budget process.
Former U.S. Congressman and Edmonds resident Brian Baird has also endorsed Chen, saying “I know Will is the kind of person who will represent all of Edmonds, listen, and do his utmost to make sure Edmonds remains the special community we all love and care for.”
As part of the “Friends of Will” campaign, Chen will be hosting a variety of opportunities for citizens and business owners to come together to connect and work collaboratively to address the complex issues facing the Edmonds community.
To find out more about these efforts and about Will, please visit the campaign website at www.friendsofwill.org or email Friendsofwill21@gmail.com.
The “Friends of Will” Campaign will be hosting a Campaign Kickoff Event on Thursday, March 4, 2021 at 7pm. Registration for the event can be found by visiting: https://tinyurl.com/friendsofwill.
Author: Mario Lotmore
