Friends, neighbors –
Washington state has what’s called a “part-time legislature,” meaning that lawmakers head to Olympia for the legislative session for only part of the year. The other part of the year is for directly working in and connecting with community – my favorite part of the job!
This summer I’ve had the privilege of visiting folks in dozens of spots all around the district. Tap the image below to take a mini tour and see for yourself, or keep scrolling to read about three of the places we’ve been!
STOP #1: The Mustard Seed Project | This is an incredible organization in our community that promotes independent living and quality of life for seniors. I was proud to partner with them to secure funding for a future senior living center right across the street and have loved hosting community coffee hours here and stopping by to say hello. This summer, it was also my first stop during the Key Peninsula Two Waters Arts Alliance art walk!
STOP #2: Pendleton Place | Construction is underway on this incredible full-service housing project to serve neighbors struggling with homelessness, mental health challenges, and substance use. This 72-unit apartment will be staffed 24/7 so that folks get both the housing and the behavioral care they need. It was an honor to help champion funding for this project, and I’m especially grateful to work with Kitsap Mental Health Services to see this through!
STOP #3: Jerisich Dock | This beautiful public space by the water in Gig Harbor was where we had our first community coffee hour. It was great to connect with neighbors face to face and talk about everything from transportation solutions to healthcare affordability, K-12 improvements to housing. Want to join me for my next coffee hour? Find everything you need by tapping here!
As always, I am eager to hear from you about your priorities and to bring your thoughts and concerns with me to Olympia – your voice is with me in committee, in leadership meetings, on the Senate floor. Easy ways to reach me include Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter – where you can shoot me a message and follow along to see what we’re up to. You can also reach out anytime at 360-786-7650 or Emily.Randall@leg.wa.gov.
The more we hear from you, the better our work in Olympia can reflect our shared values and goals.
All my best,
