NOOKSACK - Peter Lubetich is running against incumbent Nooksack City Councilman Daniel Bennett for his seat this November.

Both candidates agree that a merger between Everson and Nooksack isn't really feasible and that maintaining the small-town character of the city is a priority.

Here are their ideas on other issues facing the city, excerpted from their responses to a questionnaire from The Bellingham Herald.

What are your hopes for growth in Nooksack?

Bennett: "I personally am not interested in bringing huge growth to our city. I have seen large growth in many cities, including some in our county and have not liked the results. I believe people live in our city because if its size and the character and values that come with a smaller community.

"With that said, I understand we are faced with the issue of growth. I believe it is an issue that needs to be done responsibly in a way that our community does not lose its values and character."

Lubetich: "My hopes for Nooksack is to grow as a family community. For several years our growth has been residential not commercial. Commercial growth will eventually occur, however will require monitoring as not to downgrade our way of life in this small community area. While commercial growth may increase revenue for our City, it will also increase noise, traffic, and general safety. I am not opposed to commercial growth, but would prefer smaller retail venues rather than large."

What are other big issues facing the city?

Bennett: "One of the biggest issues facing Nooksack is its aging water lines. Many of the 50-plus year old lines are made of metal and, as a result, are deteriorating. Others are smaller then they should be. There is concern that if these smaller lines experience too large of a draw they will collapse, such as when the fire department puts out a large fire."

Lubetich: "Upcoming issues facing the City of Nooksack in the current economy are budgets that reflect our city priorities. There are many critical issues including managing growth and development, protecting our neighborhoods, preserving open space, and maintaining our roads due to development. It is important that these issues are prioritized and fiscally responsible."

RELATED LINKS

For more responses from these candidates, go online to bellinghamherald.com/elections. There you'll also find Q and A's from candidates in other races, recent articles on local races and election-related headlines from around the state and country.