Leadership Kitsap takes over the Governor’s Conference Room
State Government Day was held February 5, 2016 in Olympia. The Class of 2016 began their day at the Washington State Department of Transportation, where they received a summary of the challenges of state transportation from Roger Millar, Deputy Secretary of Transportation. The morning also included a visit to the Insurance Commissioner’s Office where Deputy Insurance Commissioner for Policy and Legislative Affairs Jason Siems shared an overview of the department and the several bills the department was currently working to pass.
Lunch was held in the Senate Rules Room in the Lieutenant Governor’s Office. The class was joined by State Senator Christine Rolfes from the 23rd District, and State Representatives Sherry Appleton, Drew Hansen, and Drew MacEwen from the 23rd and 35th Districts.
Lunch with Representative Drew Hansen (23rd District)
The leaders explored a variety of challenges and opportunities regarding state issues affecting Kitsap County, including jobs, education, public safety, and transportation. During lunch, it was hinted that there could be “fireworks” in the Senate later in the day.
Cameras rolled into the Senate Chambers. From the Gallery, the class watched the heated debate in the Senate over the confirmation of the Secretary of Transportation. The 21-25 vote, which caught Senate Democrats and the governor’s office by surprise, ousted Transportation Secretary Lynn Peterson from office!
Tour of the Temple of Justice with Supreme Court Justice Mary Fairhurst
Another highlight of the day was a tour of the Temple of Justice, led by Justice Mary Fairhurst. Justice Fairhurst gave a historical tutorial of the judicial system and how it works in Washington State. One participant shared that the day, “made government feel very accessible.”
Thank you to our State Government Day Sponsor: Port Madison Enterprises. Transportation provided by Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort.