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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Adam Smith

A candidate for Spokane Valley City Council, position 3, City of Spokane Valley in the 2019 Washington Primary Election, Aug. 6

Age: 35

Education: Graduated from West Valley High School in 2007. Attended Eastern Washington University majoring in business administration for two years, but did not complete a degree. Attended the District 9 fire academy. Has certifications in wildland firefighting, hazardous chemicals and emergency medical response. 

Political experience: Ran unsuccessfully for Spokane Valley City Council in 2019 and 2021. 

Work experience: Owns Smash Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with locations in Spokane Valley, Deer Park and Airway Heights. Worked as a firefighter for Spokane County Fire District 4 for nine years and Spokane County Fire District 10 for two years. Worked for J&J Plumbing for seven years. Has fought MMA on ESPN and around the U.S. and Canada. Coached a team of MMA fighters. Worked in customer service at Best Buy and worked the front desk at the Historic Davenport Hotel.

Family: Single

Fundraising: None as of July 5. 

Contact information

Race Results

Candidate Votes Pct
Arne Woodard 6,843 43.81%
Lance Gurel 3,993 25.56%
Al (Albert) Merkel 3,460 22.15%
Adam Smith 1,325 8.48%

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Control of Spokane Valley City Council a top issue for two of Councilman Arne Woodard’s primary challengers

Two candidates hoping to unseat conservative Spokane Valley City Councilman Arne Woodard say their goal is to shift the balance of power on the council. Former government contract negotiator Al Merkel and accountant Lance Gurel said they more often agree with more moderate members of the council, Brandi Peetz, Ben Wick and Linda Thompson.