Meet the candidates

Mayoral candidates Steve Peterson and Wendy Van Orman will debate at 7:30 p.m. nest Thursday at Liberty Lake Elementary School. The event is open to the public.

Steve Peterson

Age: 57

Occupation: Pharmaceutical sales for Aventis, Mayor of Liberty Lake

Political experience: Elected in 2001 and re-elected in 2003.

Notable: Describes himself as a “centrist Republican fiscal conservative” who is “progressive in exploring new solutions and ideas to provide public services to ensure our community and region are sustainable in the future.”

Wendy Van Orman

Age: 47

Occupation: Office manager, Quality Hardwood Floors, Inc.

Political experience: Has served on Liberty Lake City Council since 2000, including membership on numerous city committees (finance, community development, public safety, etc.)

Notable: Says the city has become a vibrant, growing young city with trees, walking paths and open space, a robust business community and growing schools. Neighborhoods and a connected community are important, as are maintaining low taxes, open spaces and “opportunities to work, play and live in this Norman Rockwell community.”