WHEREAS, 2017 marks the conclusion of a 27-year career in local government marked by a commitment to community, investment and infrastructure, and ethical leadership; and

WHEREAS, Councilmember Wagner has demonstrated a commitment to regional governance through positions on six boards and committees including the Puget Sound Regional Council Transportation Policy Board, the Puyallup River Watershed Forum, the Pierce County Regional Council, and the Valley Regional Fire Authority among others; and

WHEREAS, Prior to a career in local government, Councilmember Wagner graduated from Washington State University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and went on to earn a Master of Science Degree in Engineering from Santa Clara University; and

WHEREAS, Following his education, Councilmember Wagner enjoyed a successful 45-year career as an engineer working for companies such as IBM, the Tally Corporation, and the Weyerhaeuser Company; and

WHEREAS, Despite a busy work schedule and commitment to local government, Councilmember Wagner and his wife Kay raised four children during their 40 years of marriage; and

WHEREAS, Not only did his lifelong hobby for building things motivate his choice to become an engineer, but it also focused his agenda as a city councilmember towards building infrastructure and relationships; and

WHEREAS, Councilmember Wagner's most memorable accomplishments as a local leader are: Completing a grade separation of the railroad that is an integral part of Auburn's economy, building a stronger relationship with the Muckleshoot Tribe and the City of Auburn, championing the construction of the Auburn Community Center at Les Gove Park, and promoting the arts through the Auburn Performing Arts Center and the Auburn Art Commission's Public Art Program; and

WHEREAS, Councilmember Wagner has said that despite Auburn's population increasing from 25,000 to 80,000 residents during his tenure, the leadership of the Auburn City Council created a city that never lost touch of its small town feel;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize Councilmember Rich Wagner for his 27 years of service as a leader and promoter of the City of Auburn, and wish him the greatest success in his future endeavors.