Volunteers were treated to a home-cooked meal by Public Works Director Eric LaFrance who served dinner with other members of the city’s leadership team. The city invited volunteers who have served over the past year on the Economic Vitality and Town Center Task Force, Arts Advisory Commission, Civil Service Commission, Planning Commission, Recreation and Parks Advisory Commission (RPAC), and Neighborhood Parks Improvement Subcommittee (NPIS).
Mayor Kyoko Matsumoto Wright, City Councilmembers and City Manager Scott Hugill thanked all the volunteers for their service. City officials shared the top highlights and achievements from the past year as well as stories about some of the long-term volunteers.
Recreation and Parks Commissioner Keith Edholm was recognized as the longest continuous serving board and commission member, having served on the RPAC since 1994. With nearly 25 consecutive years on the commission, it was noted that he and his wife Carol have been at nearly every park clean up and major city event during that time. Kathy Tuura was recognized for 20 years of service as a representative of the NPIS. She represents Veterans Memorial Park and it was noted that Kathy is often seen contributing at city meetings and events.
Community Relations Director Virginia Olsen and Parks Superintendent Ken Courtmanch highlighted the effort of volunteers to transform Bicentennial Park over the past decade to include building a trail and raising grant funds to pave it. “Our volunteers not only come with ideas to improve our community, they show up and they recruit others,” stated Olsen. “Now the city regularly sees scout groups, student groups, Premera volunteers, church groups, parents and seniors all helping out to build community. It’s amazing!”
Any groups or individuals that are interested in volunteering, please contact Community Relations Director Virginia Olsen at (425) 744-6206 or cityhall@ci.mlt.wa.us.
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