It is evidently a new position and by my estimation, there are no "inside candidates" wired to be the successful candidate — so apply!
If you are living in another state, be willing to move! Be flexible about your housing arrangements, since it is an expensive area to live in. Don't expect to live in the city of Kirkland. Likely 15 years ago I remember being told that there were "no" city employees who lived in Kirkland at that time.