MOSES LAKE - James Liebrecht wants to win position 6 on the Moses Lake City Council to return to serving the local community.

"I believe my beliefs are conservative and are shared by many in Moses Lake," he said. "I want to be a voice for them."

Liebrecht served one term as city councilman and five years on the city planning commission giving him the necessary skills to make good decisions, he said. A small business owner for nearly 30 years, he understands the ramifications of taxes and the importance of good service.

If elected he would work to shore up the police and fire departments, making sure they're well equipped to perform efficiently and safely, he said.

"Our parks and recreation budget is amongst the largest. I want to make sure our police and fire get the same amount of attention," he said.

Police, fire and water/sewer are the most important services the city provides, Liebrecht said, calling all other services "frosting on the cake," which can't be funded at the expense of core needs.

"What responsible person spends all his money on a vacation only to come home to a foreclosed house?" he said.

Major challenges Liebrecht foresees for the Moses Lake Council include getting citizens involved in local government and convincing them they can make a difference.

"I want to listen to them and represent them," he said. "It is important to get the information in a timely manner, to equip my decisions with knowledge."

When asked whether the city should provide sewer service to the Grant County Fairgrounds, Liebrecht said when the county is interested in city sewer services they will make it known. Until then the city has no say.

Any annexation of the Larson housing area has to first be requested by Larson residents, Liebrecht said. With the present state of the economy he would oppose annexation, he said, as the cost would be a burden to city taxpayers.

As far as city code enforcement, Liebrecht said all violations should be dealt with, even if there has been no complaint.

"If a code enforcement officer sees an issue that is a danger without notification from a citizen, it should be addressed as well," he said.

People should cast their vote for Liebrecht because he has proven his steadfastness and will continue to do so, he said.

"I have no agenda except to serve the people of Moses Lake. I want to listen, whether it is good or bad. I believe everyone has a right to view their opinion. I will listen and not cut them off mid-sentence. They have a right to be heard."