The Seattle Athenaeum welcomed District 7 City Councilmember Andrew Lewis and challenger Bob Kettle for a conversation hosted by their founder, David Brewster, last Friday.
The Seattle Athenaeum welcomed District 7 City Councilmember Andrew Lewis and challenger Bob Kettle for a conversation hosted by their founder, David Brewster, last Friday.
The event focused on issues facing Pike Place Market and the surrounding downtown area. After a quick introduction, Brewster asked for their favorite spots at the market.
Lewis said Maximilien Restaurant — for lunch and the view — has a special place in his heart and he also enjoys the occasional cask beer from White Horse Tavern.
Kettle said, “Piroshky Piroshky!”
They discussed the possibility of closing the market to cars and adding the streetcar that would connect to other parts of the city. Kettle insists that the market’s master plan is working, Lewis said they must work with the stakeholders.
Brewster won applause from the crowd when he said, “I think the streetcar would ruin 1st Ave.”
There was further debate about safety and how the city would help the workers and residents feel safe at the market. Lewis explained steps the city had taken to combat drug use and successfully relocate our unhoused neighbors, while Kettle blamed the current council for creating a permissive environment.
Kettle apologized for not having all of the answers because he wasn’t a politician yet. To which Lewis replied, “You don’t become one when you step on the dais, I think you’re a politician now.”