SOAP LAKE - Keith Hagglund is running for Soap Lake City Council position 6 because he believes the city needs to bring more small businesses into town.

"I have had two of my own businesses and with the economy in the doldrums it will take a lot of work to turn things around," he said. "However, a comprehensive plan has already been done and it needs to be implemented."

The city can improve the local economy by utilizing the plan, which was updated two years ago, Hagglund said.

The major challenge for next year's council will be to determine how to improve things in the city without new taxation, which Hagglund is firmly against. He does believe there is grant money available for capital improvement projects, however.

Hagglund's priorities when spending city money center on replacing sewer and water lines and paving streets and sidewalks. He thinks the city should steer clear of expensive projects involving taxpayer dollars, although he supports any project that might bring more people to town, including the Lava Lamp.

Hagglund's goals for the position include encouraging the council to become more open to suggestions from the public, cutting costs through better planning and reducing crime.

"Reducing crime is at the top of my list," he said.

The city council should help improve living conditions in Soap Lake by working to reduce home invasions and following up on any arrests of drug dealers, he added.

If elected, Hagglund would to examine the possibility of bringing paper and plastics recycling to Soap Lake citizens, as well as look at how the budget can be better prepared.

When asked why people should vote for him, Hagglund said he has lived in Soap Lake for more than five years and is a strong proponent of improving the city.