Summary

Newest member of the Council to build on legacy of “effective leadership in District 8”

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After being sworn in today as its newest member, Metropolitan King County Councilmember Joe McDermott said he is looking forward to meeting the needs of his constituents in the face of the challenges facing King County.

“We must work together to provide meaningful and efficient government services with an eye to the future. We cannot let today's economic crisis keep us from meeting our commitments in regional planning, environmental stewardship and public safety,” McDermott said. “As I join the Council, I will work hard to effectively advocate for the needs and values of the 8th Council District.”

McDermott received the Oath of Office from Clerk of the Council Anne Noris after the results of the November 2 general election were certified this morning, a day later than originally planned due to inclement weather. McDermott replaces Councilmember Jan Drago, who was appointed to the position after the resignation of former Councilmember Dow Constantine, who was elected King County Executive in 2009.

“I am honored the voters of the 8th Council District chose me to serve them in a position that has a long legacy of strong, effective leadership,” said McDermott.

McDermott has been a member of the Legislature since 2000, serving seven years in the state House before being appointed to the state Senate in 2007. He was Senior Budget Analyst with the Seattle School District and has worked for former Pierce County Prosecuting Attorney John Ladenburg. McDermott has a Master of Public Administration from the University of Washington's Evans School of Public Affairs and holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science from Gonzaga University.

McDermott will finish Constantine’s unexpired term, which runs through 2011.