Enatai resident and attorney Aaron Laing announced Monday his intention to run for Bellevue City Council in this November’s election.

On his campaign website, Laing cited his desire to find the optimal East Link light-rail alignment as his principal motivation for running. According to a press release, he helped form and serves as co-chair of the Enatai Neighborhood Association’s light-rail committee.

Laing stated a preference for the B7 route through South Bellevue that takes the route along I-90 and turns parallel to Interstate 405. He said he prefers this alignment because it provides the possibility of reaching out to the eastern parts of town as well as the cities of Issaquah and Snoqualmie.

“It’s important to me that this be done right the first time because we’re not going to have the money or the opportunity to do it again,” he said.

Laing also stated hesitancy about at-grade crossings and the potential closure of the South Bellevue Park and Ride during construction in Sound Transit’s favored alignment as reasons he prefers the B7.
Laing has not yet decided which seat he will run for.

Laing listed his desire to get a dedicated fire station downtown, and continued commitment from the city to make sure it isn’t over-taxing its residents in a difficult time economically as other primary issues for him.

Laing is a shareholder at the law firm Schwabe, Williamson and Wyatt, in the Seattle office. Since 2007, he has handled cases helping property owners navigate and abide by the rules and laws of development. He’s been recognized as a Washington Rising Star, a recognition given to top attorneys under the age of 40, or those who have less than 10 years experience. He has been involved in communities activities such as coaching a girls soccer team.