Local Government Day was held on October 18, 2019 at the US Naval Undersea Museum in Keyport. The day was a thought-provoking look at Kitsap’s local governance and the intersection of local, federal, and tribal jurisdictions.
The day began with Board member Jennifer Yeaman (LK09) facilitating a discussion on Authenticity, the first of seven leadership capacities the class will discuss as part of our Positive Leadership curriculum. The theme of Authenticity was woven throughout the day with each of our presenters.
Our keynote speaker was Cary Bozeman, Port of Bremerton Commissioner and former mayor of Bellevue and Bremerton. Cary shared his personal reflection on the core values of leadership. Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Keyport Technical Director Dr. Martin Irvine shared the great impact of the Navy in Kitsap County and the innovative work being done at Keyport.
Heidi Scheibner (LK16) facilitated a discussion between Bremerton School Board Member John Hurley (LK16), South Kitsap Fire & Rescue Fire Commissioner Dusty Wiley, and Bremerton City Council President Eric Younger about being elected officials in Kitsap County and their choice to serve the public in this capacity.
Following lunch, the class enjoyed time in the U.S. Naval Undersea Museum and participated in an educational program with Education Specialist Valerie Johnson. The museum is one of ten Navy museums located throughout the country that interprets the Navy’s history and admission is free!
Continuing the elections discussion, Kitsap County Auditor Paul Andrews (LK14) enlightened the class on the election process in Kitsap County and the impressive efforts to make each election accessible and 100% accurate.
Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribal Counsel, Gina Beckwith (LK09), wrapped up the day by sharing with the class how County and Tribal governments work together. “S’Klallam” translates to “The Strong People.”
Thank you to the US Naval Undersea Museum for the wonderful venue and educational program, and Contract Management Services, a Division of Bremerton Housing Authority, for sponsoring the day.