SNOHOMISH — City Councilman Randy Hamlin will leave office by Aug. 4, ending a tenure with the city that included four years as mayor.
Increasing work responsibilities and a desire to spend time with his family led to the decision, Hamlin said.
“There’s no way I can commit to the time the position requires,” he said. “I felt that it would be the right time to step aside.”
Hamlin, 47, broke the news to his fellow council members Tuesday night, surprising some. He ran unopposed for re-election in November, winning his second four-year term to the council.
Mayor Karen Guzak on Wednesday praised his time in office.
“I saw him as a moderating force and a leader with integrity,” she said.
Hamlin said he had no regrets about seeking re-election in November. At the time, he didn’t realize his work responsibilities were ramping up.
He now travels to Asia, Europe and throughout the United States as vice president of research and development for Philips Healthcare.
He also wanted to spend more time with his family. His sons, ages 12, 14 and 17, play sports. He didn’t want to miss their basketball and football games.
City Manager Larry Bauman said he understands Hamlin’s reasoning, but is sorry to see him go. Hamlin brought a level-headed intelligence to debates on community policy, Bauman said.
“It’s a loss to our community and to our City Council to lose a valued leader, which he is,” Bauman said.
The council appoints one of its own to serve as mayor, allowing that person to lead the body and act as its spokesman. Hamlin held the title from 2006 to 2009.
He didn’t seek another term as mayor this year, in part because of family and work obligations.
He intends to stay on the council until Aug. 4, giving the city time to find his replacement. The city is gathering applications for the role and may appoint his successor on Aug. 10 at a special meeting.
Andy Rathbun: 425-339-3455; arathbun@heraldnet.com.
How to apply
The city is accepting applications now for Councilman Randy Hamlin’s seat. Applicants must be registered voters who have lived in Snohomish for at least one year. Application forms are due Aug. 4 by 4 p.m. and are available at www.ci.snohomish.wa.us, by calling 360-282-3155, or by picking one up at City Hall, 116 Union Ave.
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