Centralia City Councilwoman Barri Allen has announced that she will run for Mayor in next year’s April nonpartisan elections. Current Mayor Bryan Kuder has also confirmed he has decided not to run.
Allen made the announcement after Monday night’s city council meeting where she served as Mayor Protem.
“I care about this community. I have three grandchildren that live here, and my family all have business here. I love this community and I think it’s growing in a really good direction. I want to keep that direction going the same way it has been. It’s just a passion of mine to continue what we are doing.”
And Allen says that is following the city’s comprehensive plan and working for more housing, businesses, walking trails, and additional residents to enjoy what the city has to offer. Allen grew up in Centralia and at her parent's business Jerry’s Bar and Grill. She left Centralia, but then decided to return and is now CFO of her sister’s business Hollywood Hair.
“You really do appreciate it much more when you come back and realize just how good this community is for each other. Its tight-knit, but most of the people that I know want it to grow. They want it to be a great place, and I just love being associated with those people. It makes my life happy.”
Allen is currently completing a four year term as city councilman. Councilman Izzy Fontenez has confirmed he will run for another four year. Tommy Henegan who was appointed to complete a two year term has also announced he will run for the other four year term.
The incumbents in Salem say they are still considering seeking another term. They are Mayor Nic Farley and councilman Craig Morton and Royce Bringwald.
Petitions for the positions are available at the Salem and Centralia City Clerk offices. The filing period for nominating petitions is not until October ahead of the April elections.
