Three candidates for Snoqualmie mayor discussed their vision for the city July 17 in a public forum hosted by the SnoValley Chamber of Commerce.

The candidates — Mayor Katherine Ross, former Snoqualmie City Councilmember Jim Mayhew and Snoqualmie resident Marcus Johnson — took turns answering pre-written questions given by moderator Nathan Sherfey, co-owner of Remlinger Farms.

Candidate Matt Mullvain was unable to attend the forum due to a previously scheduled event.

About 80 people attended the event in the Mount Si High School Auditorium, according to Kelly Coughlin, CEO of the SnoValley Chamber. Based on past years, she says thousands more people will watch a recording of the debate posted online.

The event’s format was somewhat similar to a debate, but there was no dedicated time for rebuttals. After each candidate took their three minutes to answer the given question, the moderator would move on to the next one.

However, some rebuttals were given. If candidates wanted to clarify something, they were able to do so in their next response or closing remarks, regardless of the question currently at hand.

There were six questions, each covering a different topic: budget and fiscal health; community and regional partnerships; affordable housing; the community center expansion and new pool; economic development; and public safety.

In her opening statement, Ross said Snoqualmie was struggling when she took office in 2021.

“Nearly one-third of our city positions were vacant, systems were outdated and residents did not feel heard,” she said. “We got to work and delivered results.”

Ross said, under her leadership, Snoqualmie has modernized its operations, restored city staffing and improved transparency with residents. Crime is down 10%, she said, and the city has one of its most high-performing teams in years.

Mayhew and Johnson, however, said they are running in part because they don’t believe residents are getting the transparency or accountability they deserve.

“I believe Snoqualmie’s future should be shaped by its residents, not by any one person,” Mayhew said. “Too much is now kept from view, and collaboration has declined. Many issues are discussed in closed door sessions that result in single-option outcomes.”

To see the full forum, visit “City of Snoqualmie Mayoral Candidate Forum Debate 2025” on YouTube.