Former Councilmember Joe Lopez announces bid for At-Large Seat

Joe Lopez, who was previously appointed to represent District 1 on the Tacoma City Council in 2014, announced today that he is running for the at-large seat, position 7. Councilmember David Boe, who currently holds the position, announced he is not running for a second term. 

In describing his priorities for office, Lopez emphasized restoring infrastructure and improving quality of life in the City’s neighborhoods.

“Our first priority needs to be livability,” Lopez explained, adding that “we need to avoid unnecessary new programs and expenditures that drive up the City budget and divert resources from core City functions like roads and transportation.”

Continued Lopez: “People choose Tacoma for affordable housing, vibrant neighborhoods, and great public services.  As the economy improves, we have an opportunity to improve core services and make Tacoma an even better place.”

During his tenure on City Council representing West Tacoma, Lopez gained a reputation as a pragmatic problem solver with an ability to work with people on all sides of an issue.  In his run for an at-large position, he emphasized his dedication to basic services like public safety.

“In every neighborhood I visit, I hear that the City needs to do more to address quality-of-life concerns like crime,” Lopez explained.  “Through careful budgeting and strategic cost control, our Fire and Police Departments have done a great job of protecting the city. But we can’t fall behind.  Things are getting better – and now it’s time to plan for the future.”

Concluded Lopez: “The wonderful thing about Tacoma is that it’s a very diverse city of neighborhoods, and Tacoma needs an advocate who can bring those neighborhood concerns together and articulate a citywide vision.  That’s the work I’m excited to do on City Council – for all of Tacoma.”

Joe and his wife Evelyn own a business in Hilltop and live in the West End.