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President O'Malley noted Ms. Grdina's unique experiences and asked her to speak more about dealing with disputes, especially those amongst neighbors. Ms. Grdina stated that through her experiences as an attorney and campaigner she has come to understand that most people want to be heard. She was able to acquire soft skills while putting herself through law school working at bars and restaurants. By listening to people's complaints, she can get to the root of the problem and resolve issues in a non-confrontational format. In closing remarks, Ms. Grdina thanked Council for the opportunity, noting her father's passing at the beginning of this January. Her father dedicated much of his life to bettering the lives of others and she expressed a desire to continue to do so in hers as well. Tom Einhouse Interview Candidate Tom Einhouse made an opening statement highlighting the various professional and civic experiences and skills he would bring with him to the role including service on the Planning Commission, Board of Education, and Board of Zoning Appeals. He remarked that he has gained insight into the community and has had experience working with diverse groups over the years. He expressed a desire to take the lessons from the past and apply them to the future, work collaboratively with others and get things done. In response to a question from Councilmember Rader about what cities should do to become more sustainable, Mr. Einhouse discussed the City's stock of historic century homes and how sustainability and historic preservation can go together. He also spoke about transportation, recycling, renewable energy and parks and recreation. He expressed concern that sustainable energy is such a small part of the national economy and expressed interest in bringing it more to the forefront locally. In response to a question from Vice President Litten asking if he will run for re-election if appointed to the seat and what he believes Council's priorities should be, Mr. Einhouse responded that he is planning to run for the at-large seat. He identified sustainable budgets and economic development as priorities for Council as well as the proposed new community center at Cove church and the goals of Live Well Lakewood. In response to a question by Vice President Litten asking about his role in the budgeting process with the school board, Mr. Einhouse replied that school board members could only make sound decisions based on good information from the Treasurer. Board members would have to give direction about the type of information they needed and always understand the forecast. In response to a question from Councilmember Neff asking him what unique qualities he would bring to the body of Council, Mr. Einhouse identified his ability diverse background together and apply it. Additionally, he pointed to his skills in communications, having empathy, and a vision about what is right for the future of Lakewood. Councilmember Bullock applauded Mr. Einhouse for his professional successes at Playhouse Square and asked him to weigh in on the City's cycling infrastructure. 5