By now, most of you know that I will be resigning at the end of June to begin a new chapter of public service as U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell’s State Director. While this was a very difficult decision, in reality it’s a wonderful opportunity to continue to serve Kitsap County in a new and exciting way.

I’ve been truly honored and humbled to serve as your commissioner these past 10 years, and as I reflect on our challenges, changes and accomplishments, I count the blessings bestowed on me by your help and support.

Together, we have formed community councils to improve the communication and relationships between the North End and county government offices in Port Orchard. Kingston set forth the first design standards and Suquamish created the first community plan in the county. Your dedicated involvement has been essential in bringing new parks, better road improvements and enhanced relationships that have improved the quality of life in our neighborhoods.

Being involved in your government requires time, commitment and effort. As we look at Hansville, Kingston and our other neighborhoods, I hope that you will agree the time you’ve spent is a good investment. Without your voice and participation − and without your community speaking with one voice − the folks at the county cannot know your priorities in allocating our scarce resources.

My involvement in state and national county associations has given me a true appreciation of the quality workforce we have. The men and women who work for Kitsap County are an incredible group of dedicated public servants, and I offer my heartfelt gratitude and thanks for their hard work.

We should be proud that Kitsap is a national leader in a number of programs that other counties around the country only aspire to provide.

From the road crew to the personnel department, from solid waste to parks, the people that work for Kitsap are responsible for providing our fine quality of life. Next time you are waiting in traffic and the flagger on the road project asks you to stop so they can make your road better, give him or her a big smile and a wave.

Nothing happens without good partnerships and in Kitsap we partner well. Over the years the elected officials in our county have dedicated themselves to work collaboratively to improve our quality of life. Our city councils, mayors, tribal chairs and community groups have worked through differences of opinions; coming together to make big projects a reality. The revitalization of Bremerton and the long awaited widening of Highway 305 are just two examples. I am fortunate to have been able to work with such a fantastic group of local officials.

Although I will be working in Seattle and across the state, I am not leaving Kitsap. I will continue to live in Poulsbo and look forward to seeing you in the grocery store, the park and at community events. All of the accomplishments that we’ve enjoyed over the past decade are the result of your help, support and hard work.

Thank you for allowing me to be part of your community team!