BREMERTON — At the March 30 Kitsap Economic Development Alliance meeting, former Bremerton Mayor Patty Lent was in the spotlight once more as the organization presented her with quite a “humbling” honor: an economic development lifetime achievement award for the public sector.

“When I started growing up in my professional life here in Bremerton, there were a couple of mayors I got to know,” said KEDA Chair Monica Blackwood. “Cary Bozeman was one of them. Then along came Mayor Lent.

“I really admire the way that she brought positivity and her everlasting presence at anything and everything that was happening in our community.”

Blackwood said Lent had a presence at everything ranging from local schools to welcoming visitors to the city.

“She had always been at an event, at a gathering and all of that,” Blackwood said. “She just was always so positive and I really appreciate that, and I hope to carry that with me for the rest of my days.”

The 2016 chair of the KEDA board of directors, Steve Politakis, also spoke of the positivity Lent exudes.

“When I first joined the KEDA board, I knew of a lot of the people on the board, but I did not know them, per se,” Politakis said. “What struck me with Patty was her gracious demeanor, her smile and how she immediately made me feel very welcome and part of the team.”

He said that Lent was a patient and attentive listener, and was always willing to help get things done.

“She’s been a business owner, county commissioner, mayor …” he said. “And as mayor, she was incredibly passionate and dedicated. She pounded the table in regards to Bremerton.

“What I also appreciated was, she always got the bigger picture. She was a huge advocate and a fan of all parts of our county. She believed in the greater good of our county.”

Accepting the award, Lent said receiving it was quite a humbling “finale.”

“Everything I did in this community was a labor of love,” Lent said. “It will continue. Thank you for your love.

“Hopefully, I’ve given back to the community as much as you’ve given me.”

— Michelle Beahm is the online editor for the Kitsap News Group. She can be reached at mbeahm@soundpublishing.com.