Who is Lara Lant and Why is she running?

Great Questions!

Who am I?

I am a lifelong resident and dedicated public servant with deep connections to every corner of the Bainbridge Island community. I raised two children here, both of whom attended Bainbridge public schools (just like me - Go Spartans!) and have spent much of my professional life serving the island through a wide range of roles — from operating a community water system to working as a city planner at City Hall.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from Central Washington University, I have spent over 14 years working for the City of Bainbridge Island in administrative, permitting, and planning roles. My hands-on work gave me deep insight into how our city functions — and where it can do better. I’ve also managed permitting for large-scale telecommunication projects across multiple jurisdictions, gaining expertise in utility coordination, government process, and stakeholder management.

My leadership extends beyond city work. As a longtime union representative with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), I led contract negotiations, represented staff in dispute resolution, and advocated for workplace equity. My eight years of union leadership taught me how to bring people together, navigate complex systems, and stand up for fairness and transparency.

I actively volunteer as an environmental and emergency response advocate, contributing my time to Bainbridge Prepares and Sustainable Bainbridge, among others. My experience across public service, infrastructure, labor, and environmental initiatives makes me uniquely prepared to represent all sectors of our community.

Why am I running for Council

Bainbridge Island is unique in so many ways — but at its heart, it’s still a small town. We know each other. We live, work, and play together. While we may not always agree on how to address the issues we face, we all want the same things: safer, simpler, and more enriched lives, supported by a responsive and responsible local government.

I’m running for City Council because I believe in the power of small steps to shape a better future. In uncertain times, we need steady leadership that keeps essential services strong, plans wisely for infrastructure needs, protects our natural resources, believes that diversity creates a stronger community, and ensures that no neighbor is left behind. I support compassionate, practical action to address housing insecurity, food access, and emergency preparedness — and I believe these efforts must be deeply rooted in community values.

Having worked inside City Hall for over a decade, I know how local government works — and where it needs to improve. I’ve seen firsthand the importance of listening carefully, communicating clearly, and following through. I will bring resourcefulness, transparency, and respect to every conversation and every decision.

As we navigate growth, climate challenges, and evolving state and federal mandates, we must stay grounded in what makes Bainbridge special. That means balancing change with preservation, and making sure every voice is heard.

I’m ready to do the work because I care deeply about this island and everyone who calls it home.