Edmonds Beacon - Your Hometown News Source

State Rep. Strom Peterson, appointed to the Snohomish County Council in September, announced his campaign to retain the Council seat Thursday, May 4.

Peterson enters the campaign with endorsements from U.S. Congressman Rick Larsen, state Attorney General Bob Ferguson, and County Executive Dave Somers, among others.

Serving on the County Council for over six months, Peterson – in a news release – said he has "been focused on regional collaboration to strengthen our communities through economic development, improved public safety, and a shared vision for housing, transportation, and preservation solutions."

"I believe my experience at the local, state, and now county level gives me a unique perspective into the challenges and opportunities at every level," said Peterson, a former Edmonds City councilmember.

"It is my priority to ensure that policy innovations and improvements happening at the local level are improving decisions made at the state. I also want to advocate for every investment and opportunity available to neighbors across Snohomish County."

Rick Larsen, who represents Edmonds in the 2nd Congressional District, has endorsed Peterson's campaign: "Strom brings a valuable perspective as an elected leader, longtime small business owner, and environmental advocate.

"He has taken on complex challenges of safety, infrastructure, and environmental protections with thoughtfulness and conviction to get results for neighbors across our state."

"Strom Peterson has stepped up to lead on critical issues at Snohomish County, applying his experience in small business and public safety to build critical partnerships at the state and local levels," said Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers.

"Strom also shares my commitment to the recovery of salmon and the Puget Sound, and is a leader in protecting our water, air, and climate for future generations."

Peterson is also endorsed by County Councilmembers Meghan Dunn and Jared Mead, as well as former County Councilmember Stephanie Wright, now executive policy officer for Snohomish County; Treasurer Brian Sullivan; state Sens. Marko Liias, John Lovick, June Robinson, and Derek Stanford; state Reps. April Berg, Julio Cortes, Brandy Donaghy, Davina Duerr, Mary Fosse, Shelley Kloba, and Lillian Ortiz-Self.

Peterson serves on the Community Safety and Justice Committee, which oversees the Sheriff's Office, Corrections, Courts, and Human Services Department; the Community Transit Board; Aerospace Task Force; Puget Sound Regional Council Operations and Economic Development Committees; Housing Affordability Regional Task Force (HART); Conservation Futures Board; and WRIA 8 Salmon Recovery Council.

Peterson has lived in Edmonds since 2001 with his wife, Maria, and dog, Lulu.

He said he will continue to represent the 21st Legislative District.

More information: http://www.stromforsnohomish.com

See April 1 Beacon story: "Rep. Strom Peterson: State representative working double-time."