I am honored to have been appointed to the city council to fill the remaining term of councilmember Robyn Denson who was elected to the Pierce County Council.  

I recently retired as Chief of Staff of the Washington State Department of Corrections after serving for 8 years. I have a total of 18 years of public service and 25 years in the private sector.  When I was notified by a neighbor that this position was open, I jumped at the chance to give back to his beautiful community.

I moved to Gig Harbor approximately 5 years ago to find a community where we could walk to local shops, restaurants, cultural events, and build a community of friends. We love the parks, trees, rich maritime and indigenous people’s history.

I believe most issues can be solved by up front rich stakeholder engagement, strong data, studying best practice research, respectful debate, and listening and seeking to understand diverse points of view. Measuring and reviewing data and stakeholder input along the way to see if goals are being met, or if changes are needed is key to sustainable policy that benefit all of our residents.

As with other cities, we have many challenges and opportunities we must face, such as, climate change, affordable housing, economic viability, growth, maintaining our small-town charm, safety, and equity.  

I am fortunate to live in Gig Harbor with my wife and dog, and to work with dedicated staff, mayor, councilmembers, and volunteers. Gig Harbor has a rich and vibrant history. I want to make sure we continue to leave that same legacy.

Serving with grace, dignity, honor, and compassion. - Julie