Melissa Timme
2025 Candidate for Bainbridge Island Parks and Recreation Commission
2025 Candidate for Bainbridge Island Parks and Recreation Commission
I am Melissa Timme. I am a long time resident and fixture in the parks and recreation community. As a mother of three school aged children, my family participates in a multitude of programs, camps, classes, and sports. As such, I bring a lived experience of the benefits and opportunities for change in the Bainbridge Island Parks District.
I value all programs and recreational offerings, as well as sustainable and fair park development. As a business owner, I know that this can only be achieved through careful stewardship of public funding.
I am a natural leader and consummate convener, who ensures that all voices are heard and respected, no matter the context. I believe that a diversity of perspectives leads to truly innovative solutions.
I have direct experience and a deep understanding of what programs benefit families and the community at large. I bring a fresh perspective that is relevant to the community now, as well as ensure a bright future and thriving community where everyone can enjoy all our island has to offer.
I chose to raise my kids on Bainbridge for many reasons including the abundance of recreation options available and the lovely parks for everyone to enjoy. I'm choosing to run for the Parks Board because I want to help ensure that all that brought and kept me here can be there for all Bainbridge residents for many generations to come.
Jackie Chang
Bill Schilling
Krysta Barton
Cheryl Besser
Adam Rabinowitz
Izumi Garland
Don Sickle
Tom Kelly
Lindsey Brady
Heidi Zwicker
Domingo Fortney
Connie Tang
Erin Phillips
Clay Roberts
Tamzin Boyce
Steve Larson
Christiane Baker
Matthew McCurdy
John Shea
Tina Guldhammer Frei
Jon Hussey
Robin Jelinek
Janet Usellis
Dave Jelinek
Philip Hutcherson
Gene Smith
Jenny Conaty
Robert Craighead
Kelly Foster
Andrew Raleigh
Connie Ballou
Neal McCulloch
Gregory Kaneb
Kathy Clifford
Stuart Snipper
Lindsey Lang
Melissa Bang-Knudsen
Dick Walpole
Jonathan Thwaites
Sherri Wilson
Steve Bailey
Jacqui Hedstrom
Phil Brock
Brian Krueger
Cheryl Tetlow
Kate Pippinger
David Maron
Questions from the community:
It's an important topic to consider. Currently, Bainbridge Island has lighting at various locations, including the High School, Strawberry Hill (primarily for football), and at Woodward. The situation at Battlepoint merits careful consideration due to concerns from neighboring residents and the potential impact on the observatory.
I acknowledge the need for well-lit facilities, especially during the short winter days when children are in school until nearly dark. Modern lighting technology offers better control to minimize light spill and skyglow. An upgrade may be due at Strawberry Hill, and any new lighting installation would require permits from the city.
In the end, the decision should involve community input and a thorough analysis of data. The existing agreement between the Parks and the city regarding lights at Battlepoint presents an opportunity, but I believe a balanced approach, guided by comprehensive information, is essential before taking a definitive stance on the matter.
Thank you for reaching out and for considering me as a candidate for the Parks Board. I truly appreciate your interest in the future of our community's parks and recreation programs. First, I want to acknowledge how much the current Parks Board has accomplished. Their dedication has helped create the incredible parks system we all enjoy. I’m not running to replace that work — I’m running to build on it, and to bring a fresh, family-centered perspective to the table.
As a “young-ish” mom raising three kids here, I see every day how vital our parks and programs are to Bainbridge life — from playgrounds and trails to the courts where we all connect, play, and recharge. I want to help make sure those spaces continue to grow, adapt, and stay accessible for everyone — kids, families, and seniors alike.
Here’s what I’ll bring to the Parks Board:
A community-driven approach — I believe in listening, collaborating, and making decisions that reflect the voices of all Bainbridge residents.
Representation for active families — We need a seat at the table for families and younger generations who use these spaces daily.
A focus on sustainability — Let’s expand and maintain our parks with an eye toward environmental responsibility and long-term health.
Support for innovation and inclusion — Whether it’s new trails, playgrounds, or recreation facilities, I’ll advocate for projects that strengthen community connections.
From the pool rehabilitation to the trail network expansions, our Parks Department has exciting projects underway. I’m running because I want to help guide these efforts thoughtfully — balancing growth, recreation, and conservation for the future of our island.
This isn’t about politics. It’s about people — our community, our parks, and the joy that comes from being outside together.
I’d be honored to earn your vote this November. Let’s keep Bainbridge a place where everyone can play, connect, and thrive.