Reception honors retiring state Senator Darlene Fairley

Senator Darlene Fairley, members of the LFP City Council, and guests

Senator Darlene Fairley, who is retiring January 11, 2011 after 16 years in the Washington State Senate, was honored with a reception by the Lake Forest Park City Council on November 18.

Sen. Darlene Fairley and LFP Police Chief Dennis Peterson

Deputy Mayor Dwight Thompson read a proclamation honoring Sen. Fairley (see story) and presented her with an etched vase with preserved flowers. He commented on how the Council could always depend on Sen. Fairley to help them and to watch out for the City's interests. He said she was always available and recalled more than one late night emergency meeting at her home.

King County Council Chair Bob Ferguson attended to honor Sen. Fairley

Councilmembers, city staff, and members of the public applauded the Senator.

Senator Fairley spoke briefly about her experience as a legislator from a small town citizen in the State Legislature and gave some parting words of advice. 

"I was a city councilmember for Lake Forest Park and understood the issues facing smaller towns. The legislature tends to be dominated by the needs of the big cities and can overlook the smaller areas. When I was making decisions as Chair of Government Operations and in Ways and Means, I was always sensitive to the needs of smaller towns. The man who is replacing me on the committee is from a large population center, so you are going to have to work a little harder to make sure your interests are represented."