Everett, Wash.
Published: Wednesday, November 7, 2007

A high-rise tribute to a leader who stands tall

 It is entirely appropriate that the tallest building on the Snohomish County government campus will carry the name of a man who for 12 years led the county with a spirit of compassion, collaboration and cooperation.

The County Council's unanimous vote Monday to name the eight-story county administration building after former Executive Bob Drewel was a heartfelt gesture to a man who set the standard here for civil and productive political discourse.

Republican council member John Koster said it best Monday when he told Drewel, a Democrat, that "When I think of 'statesman,' I think of Bob Drewel."

The Robert J. Drewel Building, the centerpiece of a major campus redevelopment that took place on Drewel's watch, will be formally dedicated early next year.

Monday's action came as a complete surprise to Drewel, quite an accomplishment given his reputation for being "in the know" on all things political. Behind the scenes, he was a bridge-builder who quietly made a positive difference in countless citizens' lives. He also led Snohomish County's emergence from the shadow of its larger neighbor to the south, establishing the county as a force that was willing and able to contribute to regional progress but wouldn't be ignored.

Since leaving office at the end of 2003 because of term limits, he has continued building regional cooperation as executive director the Puget Sound Regional Council. There, as the principal force behind the Prosperity Partnership, a successful public/private venture dedicated to maximizing economic opportunities for the region and all its citizens, he continues to lead with vision, savvy and the energy of someone half his age.

Bob Drewel's contributions to Snohomish County and the Puget Sound region will stand for years to come -- at least as long as the building that will bear his name.
© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA