The Municipal League of King CountyFormer Metropolitan King County Councilwoman Julia Patterson in April as the 2014 Public Official of the Year.
“During my time in public office, I always tried to do what was right for South County communities,” said Patterson, whose District 5 included parts of Kent. “The Municipal League is known for its non-partisan and rigorous standards and I am truly honored to receive the recognition.”
Patterson became involved in local politics when she felt that the county was ignoring the needs of her community. With other residents, she led the city of SeaTac incorporation effort. In 1989, she was elected as a founding member of the new City Council. Patterson went on to serve in the state House and Senate, and served for 12 years on the County Council.
“Julia worked every day as a strong advocate for South King County,” said King County Councilman Dave Upthegrove, who replaced Patterson as the District 5 representative. “I am proud to call her my friend and mentor and am delighted that the Municipal chose to honor Julia with this award.”
During her career, Patterson served in leadership positions on a number of boards in the region including Chair of the King County Board of Health, Chair of the King County Council and Vice Chair of the Sound Transit Board of Directors. She is a board member on the Valley Medical Board of Trustees and the Matt Griffin YMCA Board of Directors. Patterson also served as a member of the Health Steering Committee and as a representative on the Large Urban Counties Caucus for the National Association of Counties (NACo).
In a March 10 letter from the King County Council, Patterson’s former colleagues congratulated her for this achievement and recognized her regional leadership.
“Not only were you a leader here at the County Council, but you also took regional leadership roles as a board member of Sound Transit and Chair of the Puget Sound Regional Council’s Transportation Policy Board,” according to the letter. “Your actions and leadership demonstrated both your dedication to South King County and the region.”
Patterson will receive the 2014 Public Official of the Year award during the Municipal League’s April 3 Civics Awards dinner. For more information go to munileague.org.
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