After being appointed by Mayor Dave Weiser as one of three Civil Service Commissioners, I have had the honor and privilege to serve one of the most professional police departments in Washington state, the men and women of the Marysville Police Department. During my nine-year tenure as a civil service commissioner, I have been rewarded with friendships that will remain fondly in my memory for years to come. One could not ask for more. I believe that we have accomplished much during those years and it is my reward to think that I have made a positive difference to all I’ve had the privilege to serve.

Fond memories of participating in the Citizens Academy, raising funds for the K-9 programs, the baseball team and Special Olympics are among the highlights of our achievements.

Working together, we developed new Civil Service Rules, set the stage to screen and appoint the best public safety candidates possible to round out the department ranks. Although we were not able to achieve all that we set out to accomplish, I feel good about the endeavors undertaken that did become reality. After all, it takes a lot to kill a good idea, especially one based on sound logic and natural progression.

I have also had the opportunity to work with two outstanding Police Chiefs. Each one possessing sound vision and a solid respect for the organization that they lead. One thing I quickly discovered is the way that the Commanders, Lieutenants and Sergeants support the department mission along with the women and men that they work with.

There have been promotions designed to strengthen the department structure and though these positions are few, it does not diminish the talent, professionalism and dedication of those professionals who must wait for another day. With the rate in which the city is expanding, more promotions are sure to be on the horizon in the future.

I will say again, that the officers and staff of the Marysville Police Department are some of the finest professional people I know.

In today’s world you have to be factual and methodical in order to deal effectively with the variety of cultures and personalities that you interact with each day. Please keep up the excellent work you do for all the people in Marysville, as I know you will. You bring great dedication, unselfishness, commitment and sacrifice to help make our land free. It has one of the best parts of my life to serve as one of your Civil Service Commissioners. I remain your friend.

I wish the best to you and your love ones, who remain loyally at your side.