Mayor Katherine Ross announced today that she will seek re-election to continue building on the progress achieved during her first term as the Mayor of Snoqualmie. A longtime resident, former City Councilmember, and respected community leader, Ross emphasized her commitment to public safety, infrastructure, affordability, and responsive government.
“Serving as mayor of Snoqualmie has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Ross said. “We have made real, measurable progress over the past four years, and I’m running for re-election to continue that momentum—with a clear focus on protecting what makes Snoqualmie special and delivering results that matter to our residents. But our work isn’t finished. From ensuring public safety to managing growth responsibly, I’m running again to keep delivering results that matter to our residents.”
Mayor Ross brings 20 years of business management experience and a long-standing record of community service, including leadership roles as Board President of Encompass—a regional nonprofit supporting children and families—and as President of the Snoqualmie Library Board following the opening of the city’s new library.
Accomplishments During Mayor Ross’s First Term Include:
Strengthened Public Safety: Passed a voter-approved public safety levy, enabling the city to maintain essential police and fire department staffing, invest in new equipment, and expand training. Advanced accreditation efforts for the police department and achieved re-accreditation for the fire department.
Achieved full staffing in the police department, leading to faster response times, a stronger presence in neighborhoods, and—combined with legislative changes—resulting in a 10% reduction in crime in 2024. Snoqualmie maintained its ranking as one of Washington’s safest cities.
Negotiated two labor contracts: Provided competitive wages, entry-level opportunities, and professional growth—reducing overtime by 30% in 2024, with further savings expected in 2025 supporting workforce retention and operational efficiency.
Invested in Community Amenities: Delivered capital projects such as a new splash park, all-inclusive park, citywide playground replacement program, and final design of the Community Center expansion with aquatics project.
Modernized City Government: Implemented the Munis ERP system to streamline operations, improve transparency, and enhance customer service.
Balanced Smart Growth with Housing Solutions: Ensured growth aligns with the city’s actual land capacity and protected critical environmental areas, Mayor Ross successfully reduced Snoqualmie’s housing growth target from 1,500 to 719 units—while advancing affordable and workforce housing solutions to serve families, seniors, and workforce.
Improved Infrastructure: Secured a $5 million state grant to repave Snoqualmie Parkway—completed under budget—saving residents from bearing the cost, and submitted a request to transfer long-term maintenance responsibility to WSDOT to further reduce future expenses for the city.
Mayor Ross says the next four years will build on this solid foundation, with continued focus on:
Enhance Emergency Preparedness: Activate the Emergency Operations Center, increase wildfire readiness, and reactivate the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program to strengthen the city’s ability to respond to emergencies and protect residents.
Complete Major Community Projects: Break ground on the Community Center expansion and the River Trail and continue investing in critical infrastructure and public facilities to meet the needs of our community.
Grow the Local Economy: Support local business growth and retention, improve workforce access, and promote long-term economic sustainability through strategic initiatives —such as the Mill Site development, NWR Roundhouse, Model Train Museum— that will keep Snoqualmie strong and resilient.
Advance Affordable and Workforce Housing Efforts: Expand more affordable and workforce housing options to better serve families, seniors, and local workforce.
Ensure Fiscal Sustainability and Operational Efficiency: Advance financial sustainability by aligning services with resident needs, modernizing operations through Munis system, strengthening internal controls, updating financial procedures, and leveraging regional partnerships and grants to enhance service while maintaining a balanced budget.
Strengthen Environmental Stewardship: Expand trail networks, launch water conservation projects, and develop a new Climate Element for the Comprehensive Plan to protect natural resources and prepare for a sustainable future.
Champion Inclusive Community Planning: Lead Snoqualmie’s first-ever Strategic Plan with robust engagement from residents, local businesses, and community stakeholders to shape a shared vision for our city’s future.
Mayor Ross said her focus will remain on delivering practical, forward-looking solutions that enhance the quality of life for all residents.
“I care deeply about this city—about our families, residents, small businesses, and our shared future,” Mayor Ross said. “With your support, I will continue to lead with integrity, energy, and focus —and ensure that Snoqualmie remains a community where people want to live, work, and stay for generations.”
For more information about Mayor Ross’s campaign and to get involved, please visit MayorRossForSnoqualmie.com or contact info@MayorRossForSnoqualmie.com.
-Information provided by Mayor Ross for Snoqualmie
