As in years past, AIA Seattle sent questionnaires to the state and federal candidates running for office in 2010. The purpose of sending the questionnaire is twofold. First, we want to educate candidates as to our key issues—green building, sustainability, the economy, urban planning and of course, great design. Second, we want to hear the candidates' thoughts on said issues so our members can make educated voting decisions. View the 2010 AIA Seattle Candidate Questionnaire here (pdf).

Before reading the candidates' responses, here are a few examples of issues AIA Seattle has worked to effect change on several key issues:

• We are opposed to an elevated structure to replace the crumbling Alaskan Way Viaduct and to instead use this opportunity of a lifetime to revitalize our city and region by providing a beautiful, high-functioning waterfront space for all to enjoy. Our members serve on the stakeholder committees that are helping move this effort forward and meet regularly with elected and other public officials. View our Waterfront Guiding Principles.
• In 2009, AIA Seattle, along with our colleagues in AIA Washington Council (who lobby the State Legislature), successfully helped pass the Efficiency First legislation, which will will produce 70 percent more efficient construction in all new homes and commercial buildings by 2031. We are continuing to fight for these new rules as they have been delayed as a result of political battles in Olympia.
• AIA Seattle supported smart policy regarding harvesting of rainwater, and adopted a position to allow rooftop rainwater storage as a "reasonable use" not subject to the permit process of RCW 90.03. As a result, the director of the Department of Ecology adopted AIA Seattle's position as a director's rule. This is a great step toward sustainable water management in the built environment.

Questions about AIA Seattle's advocacy efforts? Contact Stephanie Pure

WA STATE CANDIDATES

Sarah Sanoy-Wright
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 11 - Position 1

Art Coday
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 32 - Position 1

Cindy Ryu
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 32 - Position 1

Gary Gagliardi
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 32 - Position 2

Joe Fitzgibbon
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 34 - Position 2

Mike Heavey
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 34 - Position 2

John Stafford
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 37 - Position 2

Judy Clibborn
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 41 - Position 2

Kevin Haistings
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 45 - Position 1

Larry Springer
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 45 - Position 2

Ross Hunter
State Representative, Legislative Dist No. 48 - Position 1

FEDERAL CANDIDATES

John Carmack
United States Representative, Congressional District No. 2

Jay Inslee
United States Representative, Congressional District No. 1

Diana McGinness
United States Representative, Congressional District No. 1

David Schirle
United States Representative, Congressional District No. 1

Bob Jeffers-Schroder
United States Representative, Congressional District No. 7

Jim McDermott
United States Representative, Congressional District No. 7

Caleb Love Mardini
United States Representative, Congressional District No. 8

John Orlinski
United States Representative, Congressional District No. 8