Chris Reichley and Kelly Jiang are running for position 2 on Issaquah City Council in the November 2025 general election. The two candidates answered a series of questions in the fall 2025 issue of Community Connect magazine.
Ballots will be sent in the mail Oct. 17. Be sure to vote by Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 8 p.m.
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Introduce yourself.
Chris – My name is Chris Reichley. Born and raised in Southern California, I’ve proudly called Issaquah home for the past 11 years. My wife, Amy, and I have been happily married for 23 years and are raising two wonderful daughters, Megan (21) and Madison (17), along with our beloved cats, Lola and Cheeto. Growing up in a small business family instilled in me a strong work ethic, integrity, and a deep commitment to community.
Kelly – I’m Kelly Jiang, your newest City Councilmember here in Issaquah. Since moving to Issaquah 5 years ago, I’ve been engaged in a wide variety of community groups, including as President of the Issaquah Alps Trails Club (IATC), member of the Mayor’s Strategic Plan Taskforce in 2024, and Chair of the Leafline Trails Coalition. I was appointed to fill a vacancy on the City Council in February 2025, and I look forward to continuing to serve you.
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What inspired you to run for Issaquah City Council, and what’s your top priority if elected?
Chris – I’m running for City Council to help protect what makes Issaquah special while taking a proactive approach to the challenges ahead. After 11 years here, raising a family and volunteering in the community, I want to give back in a bigger way. My top priority is preserving our quality of life by focusing on public safety, smart infrastructure, and managing growth in a way that keeps Issaquah safe, livable, and connected.
Kelly – Through my work with IATC, I’ve worked with and learned from the leaders who have shaped Issaquah to be what it is today, with vast open spaces like Grand Ridge Park conserved next to higher-density neighborhoods like the Issaquah Highlands. My top priority as your city councilmember would be to continue Issaquah’s leadership in balancing development with environmental conservation, ensuring our growth maintains our beloved open spaces while providing affordable housing for our community.
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What leadership qualities do you bring that make you the right choice for this position?
Chris – With over 20 years of leadership, management, and financial experience, I bring a steady and results-driven approach to serving Issaquah. I’ve served as Chair of the City’s Economic Vitality Commission for the past five years, serve on the Kiwanis Club board, and am Treasurer and Trustee for the Issaquah Highlands Council and Vice Chair of the City’s Strategic Plan Task Force. I am committed to listening carefully, collaborating openly, and working diligently to deliver thoughtful solutions that reflect our community’s values.
Kelly – As your city councilmember, I bring a listening ear, strong work ethic, and creative problem-solving ability. I hear your concerns about affordability, traffic, and public safety. I’m committed to finding real solutions for Front Street and SR 900, and to ensuring our community remains a safe place to raise a family. And, I’ll ask tough questions to ensure that we can be proud of what we’ve done in 20, 50, and 100 years.
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In your view, what’s the most important step the city should take to build resilience against emergencies and keep our community safe?
Chris – The most important step Issaquah can take to build resilience is to proactively strengthen our infrastructure and emergency preparedness. This means investing in our first responders, upgrading communication systems, and empowering residents with the knowledge to stay prepared. I am proud to be endorsed by Local IAFF 1762, the International Association of Fire Fighters, which reflects my deep commitment to supporting those who protect our community. By working together, city services and residents can create a safer, stronger Issaquah ready for whatever comes.
Kelly – The city must develop resilience strategies for all emergencies, including wildfires, extreme heat, storms, and floods. Wildfire: Issaquah should work with land managers, like WA DNR, to improve forest health and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires. Extreme heat / storms: Issaquah should invest in community resilience centers and ensure community members know how to access them. Flood resilience: Issaquah and King County should continue purchasing land to restore floodplains, which reduces flooding downstream in Issaquah.
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How will you keep residents engaged in city decisions and ensure their voices are heard?
Chris – Staying connected to city decisions and making sure every resident’s voice is heard isn’t just a promise—it’s how I lead. I live and work in Issaquah as the Community Branch Manager at Harborstone Credit Union, and through my volunteer work on local boards and commissions, I’ve become deeply connected with our local small businesses, city staff, local city leaders, community leaders, and everyday residents. I listen to understand, take a truly collaborative approach, and make it a priority to show up for my community.
Kelly – On Council, I plan to work with neighborhood organizations, like Highlands Council, to conduct listening sessions and learn more about your concerns. I’ll continue to publish a blog at kellyjiang.com that explains city council happenings in digestible, accessible terms. I’ve knocked over 1,000 doors throughout my campaign, and spoken to hundreds of you about your priorities for Issaquah. Your input is invaluable as I make decisions that shape the future of our city.
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What was the first thing that made you fall in love with Issaquah?
Chris – The first thing that made me fall in love with Issaquah was its genuine small-town feel, a place where community connection and a welcoming spirit created a true sense of belonging. I still remember the first time we visited: a band was playing at the Shell Station, community members were walking around with smiles, and the restaurants were vibrant and full of life. I am committed to advocating for fostering this unique character and quality of life.
Kelly – The wonderful trail network of the Issaquah Alps made me fall in love in Issaquah. After moving back to the area in 2019, the Issaquah trails are where I found my community. I started the Issaquah Alps Trail Running Club post-pandemic in 2021, which has grown to dozens of members that run and hike together every week, and we just celebrated our 200th run / potluck in August!
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Salmon or Sasquatch?
Chris – Sasquatch
Kelly – Salmon
Candidate statements not edited by Highlands Council.
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah Mayor
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah City Council, Position 5
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah City Council, Position 6
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah School Board, Director District 2
- Meet the candidates running for Issaquah School Board, Director District 4
- Meet the candidates running for Washington State Senate, District 5
As published in fall 2025 issue of Community Connect magazine >>>
