Business ownership: Cooke can’t have it both ways

I am in disbelief at the story published in the Kent Reporter’s online version on Monday, Oct. 26, entitled: “Business related to Kent Mayor Suzette Cooke files for bankruptcy.”

There seem to be some differences in the story published here, and the comments Mayor Cooke stated at the October 15 Scenic Hill Neighborhood Council candidates forum hosted at the Senior Center.

I, along with all the others in attendance at the above-mentioned debates, HEARD Mayor Cooke state (and I quote): “I, too, own a successful business in Kent.” This statement was made in rebuttal to a statement made by her opponent, Jim Berrios, regarding the budget issues, and how the City’s budget should be run in a business-like manner.

Why is she now claiming that she is NOT an owner of the business? Is it because she doesn’t want the bankruptcy, and obvious mis-handling of ESP’s finances, to affect her campaign? If she in fact, as stated in the article, found out that she was not an owner of the business after her husband’s death, why did she state in the candidates forum that she was? To make her look good? To boost her self image? To deceive voters? Something doesn’t add up here — The bankruptcy was filed Oct. 9, and she was aware of it’s being filed. The forum was held on Oct. 15 – six days later. How could she stand up there and brag about owning the business when she now states she doesn’t?

As far as her not changing the voters’ pamphlet, I propose that she had time to change the voters’ pamphlet just like all other candidates did (or could have). It is HER duty to ensure that the voter’s pamphlet is correct. Again, misinformation for what reason?

I’m also surprised (or maybe not) that her only concern in the article seems to be that this bankruptcy filing doesn’t harm her campaign or the public’s image of her. How about the small businesses in our own community who are being financially hurt because of this business mismanagement? How about all the taxes and associated fees that are due to the State of Washington – some of which would come back to OUR city as revenue? The city that she touts as HER CITY is suffering!

I believe that this continued misrepresentation of the facts is a part of her tactic to deceive the voters through “smoke and mirrors” tactics, and that the real truth will, unfortunately, be evident long after it’s too late.

Michele Campbell

Kent