Lake Stevens fills council vacancy left by Sam Low
Published 1:30 am Tuesday, December 27, 2016
LAKE STEVENS — Former city planning commissioner Gary Petershagen has been selected to fill the Lake Stevens City Council vacancy left by Sam Low.
Low was elected in November to serve a one-year term on the Snohomish County Council. He received 52.4 percent of the vote in a race against Hans Dunshee. Low joined the County Council at the end of November, which meant leaving the Lake Stevens City Council.
Lake Stevens Mayor John Spencer requested applications from people interested in filling the council position. Seven prospective members made it to interviews with the City Council on Tuesday. At that meeting, the council chose Petershagen to finish the last year of Low’s term.
Petershagen has served on the Lake Stevens Planning Commission for six years. His appointment to the City Council took effect immediately, interim city administrator Mary Swenson said.
In his letter of interest for the position, Petershagen said he wanted to serve on the council to “encourage balanced economic growth in order that the city can afford to foster a safe and prosperous community.”
He sells real estate and owns a small business that provides inspections and consulting for lenders. He’s also worked with the Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce, Marysville Noon Rotary, Snohomish County Economic Development Council and Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties.
“I feel that I can be a quick study on the issues facing the city as well as offering a fresh perspective,” he wrote.
Kari Bray: 425-339-3439; kbray@heraldnet.com.
