Emilio Santiago is running for Mayor of Friday Harbor. With years of public service and a deep understanding of local laws and policy, Emilio knows how government works, and how it can work better for everyone.
This community is one in which individual people can make a huge difference in each others’ lives, which is why I am inspired to apply my passion, skills, and experience to serve as mayor of Friday Harbor.
MEET EMILIO
Emilio Santiago is an archaeologist and cartographer who fell in love with Friday Harbor when he arrived in 2017. With over a decade in cultural resource protection for agencies like the Forest Service and National Park Service, he brings a deep respect for people and place.
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He’s represented the island in the Stewardship Network, helped preserve local history with the San Juan Historical Society, and trained as a volunteer Wildland Firefighter. Emilio is focused on building partnerships that strengthen the island’s resilience and community spirit.
Why Emilio?
THE PLATFORM
Transparency
You deserve to know how your local government is working for you. But not everyone can make it to a town council meeting, or catch every announcement posted to a newspaper or website.
That’s why I plan to be available in a public space for anyone to come and meet me every other week.
You can check in on my progress on my campaign promises, hear about the latest developments on town council, or let me regale with you a story of the Friday Harbor of yore.​
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
As a town built and run by workers, we don’t have the option to waste the money we raise from residents.
That’s why we shouldn’t be wasting your hard-earned cash on frivolous lawsuits against our community partners such as the county or the Home Trust.
Last year, the town spent over $100,000 on these unnecessary legal battles. As mayor, I will prioritize repairing these crucial relationships.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
If you’re making under $100k a year, there aren’t many options for housing in Friday Harbor.
I plan to empower our community organizations such as the Home Trust and Homes for Islanders to build the housing our workers need to buy into our community.
We need to find solutions for future affordable housing projects that follow our county codes, while recognizing the unique challenges of island home construction.
After all, we don’t just want seasonal workers - we want workers who can buy a home and invest in our town.
Feeling motivated?
Here are 5 things you can to do help!
Donate toward campaign materials, outreach efforts, and upcoming events!
Volunteer
Sign up to help with events, canvassing, and more!
Pledge Support
Give your endorsement and vote for Emilio by August 5th!
Visit sanjuancountywa.gov/1225/Voter-Information to make sure your address is current -- or get registered now!
Check Your Voter Registration
Share on social media or in person to your friends who live in town, or request a poster!
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