(The Center Square) – Snohomish County Council Chair Nate Nehring has announced his campaign for reelection.
Nehring represents Snohomish County District 1, which includes the cities of Marysville, Arlington, Stanwood and Granite Falls.
Nehring was first elected in 2017 when he was 21 years old. He was then reelected in 2021, receiving more than 70% of the vote.
During his time as a county council member, Nehring has consistently voted in opposition to tax increases and emphasized fiscal responsibility.
Most recently, Nehring asked his fellow council members to reject a proposed property tax hike of 8% to the county’s general property tax levy.
Ultimately, the Snohomish County Council approved a property tax increase of 4%.
Nehring’s history of fiscal responsibility also includes his help to build up the county’s rainy day fund from $25,000 in 2017 to $13.9 million currently.
“During my time in office, I have prioritized balanced budgets with no tax increases, supporting public safety, and fostering family-wage jobs in Snohomish County,” Nehring said during his campaign announcement on Monday. “I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving the residents of District 1 for the next four years.”
If reelected, Nehring said he will continue to oppose tax increases, and instead identify areas where the county can save costs and be more efficient with tax dollars.
In the case of public safety, Nehring proposes a “carrot-and-stick approach” to addressing the issue. This means funding for an increased number of treatment beds and programs for people with behavioral health issues, but also a justice system that holds people accountable.
Nehring’s campaign also focuses on expanding workforce development opportunities throughout Snohomish County to foster a thriving local economy.
Nehring is running as a Republican candidate and has received over 200 endorsements from Snohomish County and Washington leaders, including former U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert, Washington State Senate GOP Leader John Braun, Arlington Mayor Don Vanney Jr., Snohomish County Prosecutor Jason Cummings and and Snohomish County GOP Chair Bill Cooper.