Mukilteo needs new council member

Published 10:45 pm Tuesday, January 8, 2008

MUKILTEO — A newly appointed member of the Legislature has stepped down from his position on the Mukilteo City Council.

Marko Liias, who was named to the House of Representatives this week, resigned from the council so he could focus on his new office. His resignation was effective as of Tuesday.

“My service on the City Council will always be the foundation to what I accomplish in public life,” said Liias, who took office in Mukilteo in January 2006. “It was the best experience anyone could have to learn the ropes.”

Liias replaces Brian Sullivan in the 21st District, which ­includes Mukilteo, Edmonds, Lynnwood and portions of Mountlake Terrace and Everett. Sullivan left the seat following his election to the Snohomish County Council.

As recently as last week, Liias had considered keeping his council seat in Mukilteo until after the council had voted on whether to tear down or renovate the Rosehill Community Center.

By Monday — when the Snohomish County Council voted Liias to the Legislature — he decided he would rather focus on one position.

“The City Council needs someone who can be full-time and devote themselves to the responsibility,” said Liias, who consulted with Mayor Joe Marine and City Council President Jennifer Gregerson on his decision. “I just wouldn’t be doing justice to it any longer. We will work together on the legislative issues, so it’s not that I’m going away.”

Mukilteo residents have until Jan. 28 to apply for the open seat. The City Council plans to interview applicants on Feb. 11, and to swear in a Liias’ replacement Feb. 19.

Mukilteo resident Pat Kessler, who ran unsuccessfully for City Council in the November election, said she plans to apply for the open council seat.

“My interest in becoming a part of the City Council is the same now as it was when I ran for office,” Kessler said.

For Liias to resign from the City Council and focus on his state duties was the correct choice, Marine said.

Marine was in an identical situation in 2001, when he gave up his seat on the Mukilteo City Council to serve the House in the 21st Legislative District. It’s a long drive from Mukilteo to Olympia, and both roles require attending many meetings, Marine said.

Also, Liias needs time to acquaint himself with other important issues in the 21st District, Marine said.

“He’s done a lot of good work in Mukilteo, and we’re sorry to lose him,” he said. “The way we see it is we’re just gaining another good voice in Olympia. We’re proud and happy that he’s able to make that move.”

Liias plans to seek re-­election to the 21st District this fall.

“I could not have planned it out this way,” Liias said. “I’m tremendously humbled to be in this position, and I know it’s a big responsibility.”

Reporter Scott Pesznecker: 425-339-3436 or spesznecker@heraldnet.com.