Traci Granbois filed to run for Position No. 7 on the Mercer Island City Council in November’s general election.

Granbois, a licensed patent attorney and member of the Town Center stakeholder group, said that Mercer Island is “a gem uniquely situated between two large metropolises.”

“Let’s focus on our strengths and enhance the values that we hold so dear,” she wrote in a statement.

Granbois will run against Darren Gold and incumbent Debbie Bertlin in the only race that will have a primary election.

“Islanders deserve a choice. It’s only when two candidates contest an office that Islanders get a full airing of the issues, including incumbent explanations of their decisions,” she said. “All Islanders benefit when fresh ideas and energy are engaged.”

Granbois said that the continued success of Mercer Island is dependent upon fiscal responsibility and “living within our means.”

“I grew up on Mercer Island and returned to start a family because of the fantastic quality of life, schools, and sense of community,” she said. “I have deeps roots in the community and as a new mother, I am passionate about the Island’s continued success.”

Granbois is the daughter of James and Doris Cassan, who run Dollar Development Co. and developed The Mercer apartment building.

“I am very proud of my parents and how much they care about Mercer Island. They have shown me the value of community service and hard work, but more than anything they are loving parents and doting grandparents,” she said.

Important issues for Granbois include continuing to resist tolling on I-90 and building trust in government through open and transparent policies.

“I am running to preserve and enhance our quality of life – excellent schools, great parks and safe communities,” she said.

Granbois earned a B.A.S. in Systems Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, a law degree from Pepperdine University and a master’s in taxation from the University of Washington. She is also a certified yoga instructor and a participant in Paws on Patrol.