Congratulating Rob Gelder

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my sincerest congratulations and to wish a hearty farewell to one of my constituents and friends, Rob Gelder. Rob is leaving his post as Kitsap County Commissioner to work as assistant county manager for Thurston County.

After receiving a degree in political science from the University of Rochester in 1988, Rob relocated to the Pacific Northwest in January of 1990. Commissioner Gelder worked for Group Health Cooperative for over eight years, before joining Hopelink and then the Washington Health Foundation. With over a decade in senior leadership and executive management, he moved to Poulsbo to become part of the leadership team of Martha & Mary.

Rob was first appointed to Kitsap County's Board of Commissioners in 2011 and just celebrated 12 years of service to the residents of Kitsap County.

Commissioner Gelder has been an active member of the Kitsap community and has been involved with the Poulsbo Historical Society, Jewelbox Theatre, Poulsbo Rotary Club, and Hospice of Kitsap County. Rob is also a member of the State Council on Aging as well as the board of the Washington State Association of Counties.

He has been integral in creating a positive culture of collaboration between the various jurisdictions, elected officials, and staff for which our region has benefited.

Some of the Commissioner's accomplishments over his time in office include making the Kingston Village Green community center a reality, partnering with Coffee Oasis to expand into the Kingston community, adding over 4,000 acres of public open space for community enjoyment, and partnering with the Suquamish Tribe to create the Port Madison Dialogues.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor today to recognize Rob's dedication and service to Kitsap County. He has been a great friend and partner to me. His leadership and commitment to the community have never wavered. He has made a tremendous difference in Kitsap County and throughout the state of Washington. His service to our community is greatly appreciated and will be long remembered. We wish him all the best on his next endeavor.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source