On Monday morning, local businessman Jim Berrios announced his intention to run for mayor of Kent. An active member of the community, Berrios is currently the president of the Kent School Board and the owner of the Golden Steer restaurant on East Hill.
He’ll be running against incumbent Suzette Cooke, who has indicated her interest in serving for another term.
“I didn’t make this decision lightly,” Berrios stated in a press release. “But Kent needs strong, determined, and collaborative leadership right now, and with a sound business background, I’m ready to get to work.”
Berrios and his wife, Suzanne, bought the Golden Steer in 1999. Since that time, they’ve turned the restaurant into a local meeting place, hosting meetings for Kent’s service clubs, donating to schools and charities, and hosting a Thanksgiving meal for the needy. The Berrioses have been recognized through a variety of awards locally, statewide, and nationally.
Before buying the restaurant, Berrios was senior director of operations for Denny’s, where he worked his way up from night-shift cook to managing a half-billion-dollar budget and more than 20,000 employees.
Berrios has been especially involved in education issues, chairing the 2006 Kent school levy campaign before being elected to the school board in 2007. His colleagues on the board elected him board president last year.
“Jim’s leadership has been critical in guiding the Kent School District through a challenging time,” said His commitment to engaging the community and tackling hard problems head-on has helped put the District on sounder financial footing,” said School Board Vice-President Chris Davies.
Berrios said voters should consider a candidate’s business and civic experience when electing the mayor.
“Our city government needs to engage the community, provide quality service, and be accountable for results,” Berrios said. “I have a track record of doing exactly that.”
The Berrioses have lived in Kent for 16 years. Their three children all attended Kent public schools.
Berrios is planning a campaign kickoff at the Golden Steer from 6-8 p.m. June 8,. Guests can RSVP by calling 253-852-1144.
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