Edmonds Beacon - Your Hometown News Source

Former Edmonds City Council member and current 21st District Rep. Strom Peterson has been selected to fill a vacant seat on the Snohomish County Council.

Peterson, 54, was chosen over Esperance resident and Edmonds School District legislative representative Carin Chase, 58; and public defender Colin McMahon, 36, a Lynnwood resident.

The position pays $126,571 annually.

The District 3 seat vacated by Stephanie Wright serves Edmonds, Woodway, Lynnwood, and parts of unincorporated Snohomish County. Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers recently hired Wright as executive policy officer for the County, a position created in the 2022 budget.

Peterson, seeking reelection to his State House seat in the November general election, has said he will continue to campaign in advance of the November general election.

"It was an incredibly difficult decision to choose the newest representative for County Council District 3," said Council Chair Megan Dunn. "Councilmember Stephanie Wright leaves a tremendous legacy and I have confidence that Councilmember Peterson's depth of experience will serve our county well."

"I had the opportunity to learn about Strom's work ethic when I served in the state house alongside him," said Council Vice-Chair Jared Mead.

"Strom's commitment to his community is second to none and he has consistently made protecting our environment one of his top priorities throughout his entire career, dating back to when he passed the first plastic bag ban in Washington as an Edmonds City Councilmember. I am proud of my vote to appoint Strom, and I am excited to get another opportunity to call him my colleague."

Peterson will serve on the council for a one-year term before an election is held in November 2023.

"I want to congratulate Strom on his appointment to the County Council," said Councilmember Nehring. "I look forward to working with Councilmember Peterson on the key issues facing Snohomish County residents. I think Strom will serve the residents of District 3 well."

The County Council adopts and enacts ordinances, resolutions, and motions; levies taxes; appropriates revenue; and adopts budgets for the county.

The council confirms nominations to county boards and commissions and has concurrent authority with the county executive to nominate members to the Snohomish County Planning Commission.

The council also appoints the hearing examiner.