Summary

King County Executive Dow Constantine and Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers issued the following joint statement after the Washington State Senate voted not to confirm Lynn Peterson as the state transportation secretary.

Story

We, the Executives of King and Snohomish counties, give our unqualified support to Lynn Peterson, the Washington State Director of Transportation. She has been a strong leader both for the people of Washington State and for our counties. She has been a true partner for us as we work to improve our transportation systems. We believe it is a grave mistake for the State Senate to overturn the Washington State Governor's appointment for exclusively political reasons. We believe the Senate should reverse its decision. At a time of great need in Washington, we can't afford to have our transportation system derailed by politics.

King County

Last year, King County worked with Secretary Peterson to assemble and approve a bi-partisan transportation package benefiting communities across this state, and authorizing adequate funding for the Sound Transit ST3 ballot issue. Secretary Peterson and WSDOT were also actively working with King County to share operating facilities and increase efficiencies for the maintenance and operation of County bridges and roads. It is surprising and disappointing that Secretary Peterson was dismissed summarily on a straight party line vote with just hours of notice to her and her many supporters.

"I want to thank Secretary Peterson for her service to the people of Washington state. Both WSDOT and the Sound Transit Board of Directors will greatly miss her analytical mind and collaborative spirit," said King County Executive Dow Constantine.

Snohomish County

After the SR 530 slide, Lynn worked very hard to ensure that Snohomish County was able to recover as quickly as possible, and she personally invested enormous time and energy to do everything possible to help those communities most affected by the slide. She stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us in our time of need.

"Lynn Peterson represents the best kind of public servant: selfless, smart, and ready to roll up her sleeves and get the job done. She has been a great partner for Snohomish County. When we were in greatest need, she was there to lend her expertise and support. Our state has been fortunate to have her at the helm," said Dave Somers, Snohomish County Executive.

For more information

Chad Lewis, King County Executive Office, 206-263-1250
Kent Patton, Snohomish County Executive Office, 425-388-3883