Whatcom County Council District 4 candidate Q&A: Mark Stremler and Kathy Kershner

The Northern Light asked Whatcom County Council District 4 candidates why they are running for the seat in the November 7 general election. The District 4 position is a four-year term that represents all of Whatcom County. The candidates provided written responses to the questions.

Mark Stremler

Mark Stremler works for Whatcom County Public Works Department and previously owned Stremler Dairy as well as worked as a general contractor. He graduated from Lynden Christian High School.

Q: If elected, what are your top three priorities for your first year and how will you accomplish those?

After hearing from many folks across District 4, my top priorities for the first year directly reflect their concerns. I’ll advocate for public safety by supporting our law enforcement with the resources they deserve and making sure our communities and families are secure. I’ll scrutinize any proposed increase in taxes which would increase government and reduce freedom. I’ll advocate for water users. Adjudication or settlement will increase the cost of living and make it harder to farm in Whatcom County. As a fourth-generation Whatcom dairy farmer for two decades, I understand the importance of agriculture both to Whatcom’s economy and to our way of life in District 4.

Q: What sets you apart as the best person to serve this position?

I’ve lived and worked in Whatcom County my entire life. My wife, Shari, and I have been married for over 40 years, and have raised our family in District 4 – my whole life is here, which is why I’ve been endorsed by dozens of local businesses and hundreds of citizens who understand the need for real life experience to solve the challenges facing our county today. Recently, I heard councilmember Ben Elenbaas say, "If you pay attention to the council, you will often see the votes are 6 to 1." I’m committed to being your voice on county council that advocates for the conservative interests of District 4.

Q: Where would you like to see funding prioritized in the Whatcom County budget?

One of my top priorities for the Whatcom County budget is to ensure we’re funding what the county is mandated to fund. I’d prioritize increasing resources for law enforcement, funding flood mitigation efforts and building a comprehensive new jail. I’d also work to ensure our county government doesn't continue to add unnecessary tax burdens at a time when folks are already struggling to get by or find affordable housing.

Kathy Kershner

Kathy Kershner is finishing her second term on Whatcom County Council. She is a retired U.S. Navy officer and earned her bachelor’s degree in family resources from the University of Hawaii.

Q: If re-elected, what are your top three priorities for your first year and how will you accomplish those?

I am proud of the work I have done on the county council to bring a reasonable, cost-effective proposal to the voters to help us build a new jail and provide an array of services for people suffering with mental health issues and drug abuse.

The cost of living for young families with children is affecting business as it is difficult to find and hire employees because housing and childcare are too expensive.

Finally, we must support law enforcement and put in place policies to stop the deadly drug fentanyl from entering our community and taking the lives of our loved ones. 

Q: What sets you apart as the best person to serve this position?

My eight years of real experience as a council member have earned me a deep understanding of what’s at stake for District 4. I am the chair of the Finance and Administrative Committee and the Public Works and Health Committee. I serve on the Business and Commerce Advisory Board, Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board, Northwest Regional Council, Whatcom Council of Governments, Washington State Association of Counties, Aging Well Whatcom Committee, and the Public Health Advisory Board. 

Being an effective council member requires building far-reaching, respectful, real relationships and solving real problems. I’m proud to be supported by leaders such as Sheriff Elfo and Mayor Korthuis. During my tenure I have led the funding effort for Lighthouse Mission, put more deputy sheriffs on the street, funding food banks and ensured District 4 small town and rural values were incorporated into decisions.

Q: Where would you like to see funding prioritized in the Whatcom County budget?

I would like to see more funding going to programs and services that support our senior population in Whatcom County. We need to be anticipating the “Silver Wave” and ensuring we are making decisions that will serve us all as we age with regards to housing, support, services, medical care, transportation and quality of life.