3 newcomers make their case for Bremerton City Council seat

Voters in Bremerton will choose between three first-time candidates for the District 3 City Council seat in the Aug. 5 primary election: Ash Black, Michael Simonds, and Christy Cammarata. The top two vote-getters will advance to the general election in November.

Incumbent Jeff Coughlin is running for Bremerton mayor.

Black serves on the board of The Roxy Theatre and is a contributor to The Kitsap Smokestack. Black also hosts “Afternoons with Ash” on BKAT and is the founder of BlackHeart Media, a storytelling platform focused on Kitsap communities. A graduate of Mary Grimes Education Center (1999), Black has studied film and media at Brookhaven and Olympic College (2021–2023). Black’s community service includes mentorship programs supporting at-risk youth and young fathers.

Simonds is the vice chairman of the Manette Neighborhood Coalition and a local real estate agent. He previously served in the U.S. Navy as a nuclear missile technician and worked as a prevention assistant with the Southern Tier AIDS Program. He studied genetics and medicine at SUNY Binghamton and Broome Community College, and later completed Navy training and real estate certification. This is his first campaign for public office.

Cammarata is a program manager in the Financial Services Division of the Washington State Health Care Authority. Her prior state government experience includes roles in emergency medical services, legal services, and child support enforcement. She has a bachelor’s degree from California State University, San Marcos and a paralegal certificate from National Paralegal College. Cammarata served as the coordination and planning director for the 2024 Bremerton Fire Department Santa Sleigh Ride.

(The following statements are from the voters pamphlet since none of the candidates responded to questions that were sent to them.)

Ash Black

I’m Ash Black, and I’m running for Bremerton City Council to bring practical, community-first leadership to City Hall. I’m not a career politician; I’m someone who grew up in a working-class family and has spent my life working directly with people, not politics. Over the years, I’ve helped build programs that support youth, from mentorship and education access to creating safe, inclusive spaces. I’ve worked alongside nonprofits and public agencies to strengthen community health and well-being. I’ve supported local businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs because a thriving Bremerton means investing in creativity, culture, and opportunity. Our city is at a crossroads. We need housing that real people can afford, not just market-rate developments. We need city infrastructure that supports recovery, safety, and equity. And we need to foster economic growth by uplifting local small businesses and artists who give our community its unique identity. I’m running because I believe City Hall should work for all of us, not just the few. I bring lived experience, empathy, and a collaborative spirit. I will listen. I will lead with integrity. And together, we will build a Bremerton that’s more affordable, more inclusive, and more connected for everyone who calls it home.

Michael Simonds

As a resident of Bremerton’s 3rd District, encompassing Manette and downtown, I’m committed to building a stronger, more vibrant community for all. My campaign centers on practical solutions, not empty promises. First, we need permitting reform. Our current system hinders small businesses, stifling growth and opportunity. I’ll push for streamlined processes, making it easier for entrepreneurs to establish and improve their businesses, ensuring they can thrive. Second, our approach to homelessness must shift. Simple harassment is not a solution. We need a compassionate, complex system that addresses the root causes, providing support and pathways to stability. Third, our parks and city infrastructure deserve thoughtful growth. I’ll advocate for responsible development that enhances our quality of life, protects our green spaces, and prioritizes pedestrian and bicycle safety, ensuring safe “last-mile” mobility. Finally, we must maximize the value of our city’s resources. Many programs, like pool passes and woodshop classes, are underutilized. I’ll work to increase accessibility and awareness, ensuring every resident can benefit from the services we invest in. Let’s make Bremerton a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Christy Cammarata

As a mother of three and proudly married for 17 years, I understand the daily challenges and priorities facing working families. I’m running to fill a critical gap on the city council, the absence of working parents with school-age children who are dedicated to helping Bremerton thrive without ego or personal gain. This perspective is essential to building a more inclusive, balanced, and effective local government. If elected, I bring 18 years of experience as a Washington State employee, with a background in budgeting and actuarial modeling for long-term financial forecasting. I have a proven record of responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars and a strong understanding of navigating complex state and federal regulations. My decision to run for city council isn’t driven by political ambition, but by a deep love for Bremerton and a genuine desire to serve its residents. I aim to lead with kindness, respect, and attentiveness. Having grown up in another military town, I understand the unique complexities of life in Bremerton and have a deep appreciation for our city’s rich history. I love Bremerton and am proud to ask for your vote to represent District 3. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected community.