This fall’s local elections have been some of the most active and complex in recent memory, and your TCAR Government Affairs Committee has been hard at work making sure housing issues and property rights stay front and center.
This year, interviews were offered to every candidate running for city-council or mayoral seats in Pasco, Kennewick, West Richland, and Richland. Each conversation focused squarely on issues that matter most to REALTORS® and the communities they serve:
Although these races are non-partisan, and the endorsements themselves likely span a wide range on the political spectrum, the committee stayed anchored to a single standard: support strong leaders who will positively impact housing and community development.
A First for West Richland
In TCAR’s history, the association has rarely weighed in on West Richland elections. But with the Lewis & Clark Ranch master-planned community on the horizon and steady population growth reshaping the city’s infrastructure needs, the committee believed it was time to engage.
Balancing new development with the small-town charm that residents value most became a key discussion point. After careful interviews and deliberation, the committee endorsed Braden Sloughter, Nancy Aldrich, and David Cole for City Council, and Fred Brink for Mayor: four individuals the committee believes are best equipped to manage West Richland’s next chapter responsibly.
A Challenger Slate in Richland
In Richland, the committee chose a slate of challengers for this cycle: Kyle Saltz, Pat Holten, and Donald Landsman. Mr. Landsman’s tragic passing during the campaign was deeply felt by everyone involved, but his name will still appear on the November ballot. Should he win posthumously, the Richland City Council will appoint a replacement to serve his term.
The committee felt it was important to honor Mr. Landsman’s values, his focus on sound planning, and his advocacy for housing opportunities. TCAR also reaffirmed support for incumbent Ryan Whitten, citing his strong track record on housing policy during his last term.
Continuing Strength in Pasco and Kennewick
In Pasco, TCAR endorsed incumbents Melissa Blasdel and Leo Perales, both of whom have demonstrated consistent leadership on housing and growth management.
In Kennewick, the committee issued a single endorsement: Brad Klippert for City Council. His emphasis on pragmatic budgeting and property-rights protections aligned well with the association’s advocacy priorities.
Staying True to Mission
Every endorsement this cycle, whether for a challenger or an incumbent, came after hours of volunteer work, research, and respectful debate by your Government Affairs Committee. Their goal was never to back a party or ideology, but to evaluate which candidates are most likely to help communities thrive through sound housing policy.
As ballots arrive, TCAR encourages members to vote, return their ballots early, and share information about these local housing champions with friends, family, and neighbors.
The local leaders we elect this fall will help set the tone for zoning, permitting, and development decisions that shape our region’s housing supply for years to come. Your vote, and your voice, truly matter.
