EDITOR’S NOTE: Since our founding in 2008, The Tukwila Blog has allowed residents running for local office one free post for when they announce their candidacy:
This week, Tosh Sharp announced he will run for Tukwila City Council in the 2021 election.
Sharp is a journeyman lineman and IBEW 77 member who works alongside crews to restore power during storms. He is now asking “to be responsible for ensuring accountability from city leadership and supporting Tukwila’s residents.”
Here’s more from an announcement:
“Tukwila deserves leaders who embrace what makes this place special and put neighbors above politics,” said Tosh. “I’m running for City Council to be that voice – someone who will work hard every day for first-rate city services, opportunity for all, and the quality of life that makes Tukwila great.”
Tosh, a working dad and longtime union member, plans to focus on the day-to-day challenges facing residents and taxpayers, including accessible city programs, housing affordability, traffic congestion, and parks and the environment. Tosh also hopes to support an equitable recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic for workers, small businesses, and Tukwila’s most vulnerable, including specific outreach for veterans, immigrants, and communities of color.
“With so many neighbors struggling to make ends meet, our city must be responsive to their needs,” said Tosh. “If elected, I’ll lead with community values, focused on addressing the lasting challenges of the pandemic and working to create a city where everyone can thrive. By forging strong community partnerships, making smart budget decisions and investments, and strengthening our customer-service oriented approach, Tukwila can grow new jobs and set an example for the region as a cutting-edge city government.”
Tosh is also committed to addressing police reform and ensuring better public safety outcomes, drawing on his experience as a member of citizen boards overseeing local police. He currently serves on the Community Oriented Policing Citizens Advisory Board and as a Civil Service Commissioner.
“There’s no more visible and prominent city agency than our police department,” said Tosh. “To better protect public safety, we must build trust between law enforcement and the community. I will be a steadfast advocate for needed and innovative reforms that will ensure accountability, increase transparency, and keep our communities safe and vibrant.”
Tosh begins his campaign with the support and endorsement of his union IBEW 77, a strong validation of his commitment to working families.
Tosh is the proud father of a soon-to-be 3-year old and lives in Tukwila’s Riverton neighborhood. He is a regular volunteer at the Tukwila Pantry Food Bank.
Learn more at ToshForTukwila.com.
I serve on our neighborhood HOA board with Tosh. If my experience of working alongside him is any indication of his ability to lead, then he will make an outstanding Tukwila City Council Member! He has the ability to see a multifaceted problem, boil it down to its essential parts and create an action plan. He is a respectful listener when neighborhood issues arise and he can logically explain how decisions are made, even if unpopular. He is honest, motivated and committed to our city and I have no doubt that Tukwila will be extraordinarily well served by Tosh Sharp. Plus his son is adorable!!