| On Monday night, we officially welcomed our newest councilmember, Pat Clerget. Many of you likely know Pat already. His family has been farming in the valley for generations, and he served his career here at the City of Sumner in our Public Works Shops. I appreciate his willingness to serve, same for all who applied. It’s not an easy job. Representing the various needs and sometimes competing wishes of thousands of people takes courage. Last week, I also participated in the legislative process at the State level, joining Chief Moericke in favor of I-2113, which reestablished police pursuits back to their previous policy before the 2021 legislation restricted officers. This was a key request of Sumner’s 2024 Legislative Agenda, and I’m so pleased to see it pass both the State Senate and House. Because this bill was brought forward by an initiative of the people, it does not need the governor’s signature and goes into effect 90 days after the session ends this week. It’s good for people to get involved, whether at the State or City level. For the City, watch our upcoming agendas, not just for the Council meeting itself but also at Council committee meetings. There’s no public comment in committees, but you can still listen as a topic is forming early and share any ideas or concerns with the committee’s councilmembers by email or phone. That’s much more effective than giving comment right before the final vote is taken. Sometimes, I get asked to let people know when something “important” will be on the agenda. It’s all important, or we wouldn’t be taking time with it. So, every time we post an agenda, we are letting you know. Your role is to watch the topics and decide what’s important to you. That answer will be different for each person. Go ahead – give it a try! Mayor Kathy Hayden |
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