After Bob Sternoff resigned from his Position 2 seat on the Kirkland City Council in March, the council was forced to make a quick decision to appoint a new council member by April 16.

Graham Laing is one of 17 candidates vying for the seat.

Background: Laing has lived in Kirkland for 25 years, born and reared. He acquired a certificate in business management, marketing and logistics at the Costco Junior College in 2003.

Laing works at AT&T where he works with small business owners to improve efficiencies and help them grow.

Reasons for running: Laing said he will bring a fresh perspective to Kirkland. He said he will utilize his extensive community knowledge and business savvy to ensure Kirkland’s future.

Top issues facing the city: Laing said there needs to be more community outreach through the city’s Work Program to ensure all guidelines are met. He also believes the Downtown Strategic Plan hasn’t progressed in all areas and that the council needs to better monitor and assess those areas, specifically concerning pedestrian features and ensuring success for a small business economy.

In addition, Laing said if chosen, he will “protect the community through best practices, ensuring we meet or exceed the highest environmental standard possible, including involvement with the King County Flood Control Zone District (Regional Watershed) Advisory Board project.”

For more information, visit Laing’s Facebook page