For the Reporter

Rep. Drew Stokesbary, R-Auburn, has been recognized for his work in Olympia to preserve and improve fire services.

The Washington Fire Chiefs, a nonprofit association representing the fire department chiefs across the state, has selected Stokesbary as its 2018 Legislator of the Year and named him an “Honorary Fire Chief.”

The Washington Fire Chiefs specifically mentioned Stokesbary’s hard work, responsiveness, leadership and support of fire service issues.

“Our organization is privileged to recognize the leadership of Representative Stokesbary,” said Eric Robertson, administrator of Valley Regional Fire Authority and chair of the Washington Fire Chiefs’ legislative committee. “For several years, he has been there for the Fire Chiefs, listening carefully to our issues and advocating for stronger public safety measures.”

Robertson added, “Our job is to keep our communities safe and Rep. Stokesbary has become an important partner by leading the effort on passage on several important bills which help us. Whether it is leading the charge on initiatives to help firefighters in their jobs, or modernize our administrative statute to save taxpayers money, Rep. Stokesbary has listened, researched, and worked to get those bills passed.”

Stokesbary, who has represented the Auburn, Sumner, Bonney Lake and Enumclaw area in the House of Representatives since 2015, said he appreciated the recognition but was quick to acknowledge others.

“While I’m thankful for this award, I’m even more thankful for the devotion of the men and women of the fire service,” Stokesbary said. “Anything I accomplish in Olympia to increase public safety is only possible because these dedicated public servants show up for work every day, ready help our communities.”