Author: amymcforduvall

A Little Bit About Me

amymcforduvall

Since our very first dog, Scout, I’ve loved dog training. Scout made it easy—bright, enthusiastic, and always up for agility courses (his favorite!). Then came Schatze, a rescue German Shepherd with a very different outlook—she preferred sprinting through Meadowbrook Farm and joyfully rolling in elk droppings. Let’s just say I had to level up quickly.

That learning curve shaped me not just as a trainer, but as a person. In early 2020, after losing our last beloved pup, we welcomed Joren into our lives. He’s full of energy, loves tricks and nose work, and keeps me constantly learning. Focused, curious, and always game for more—he’s a challenge, but a blast to train.

This lifelong passion has taught me the value of clear communication, patience, and meeting others where they are—skills I bring to my work in public service every day. Success, whether with dogs or in city leadership, comes from consistency, adaptability, and a whole lot of encouragement… and sometimes treats.

🎥 Enjoy this clip of Joren in action! It may look effortless, but it’s the result of years of steady effort. Just like progress in our city, what you see on the surface is only part of the story.

The Big Issues: Affordable Housing

amymcforduvall

Housing affordability touches everything—who can live here, who can stay here, whether our local businesses can find employees, and whether our kids, teachers, and first responders can build their futures in Duvall.

I’ve heard from:

• Longtime residents being priced out of their homes.

• Young families who want to stay but can’t find anything within their budget.

• Seniors hoping to downsize but finding no options that meet their needs.

We need more housing choices—not just more houses. That means:

• Supporting a mix of housing types—townhomes, cottages, senior-friendly units, and apartments in the right places.

• Ensuring new development aligns with our small-town character while creating opportunities for working families.

• Partnering with nonprofits and regional agencies to preserve affordability and invest in long-term solutions.

• Making it easier for residents to age in place or welcome extended family through accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

We can’t solve the housing crisis alone—but we can lead with compassion, creativity, and common sense. I’m committed to policies that keep Duvall a place where people of all ages and incomes can live, work, and thrive.

📸 Last year’s Sno Valley Senior Center ribbon cutting for their Carnation Senior Apartments project—a model for how thoughtful planning and partnerships can create the right housing in the right places.

Throwback Thursday

amymcforduvall

Throwback Thursday to one of my favorite chapters—my time as an education docent at Woodland Park Zoo 🐾

Before starting our family, I spent much of my free time volunteering at the zoo, helping visitors connect with wildlife and the wonder of the natural world. Whether answering curious questions about ocelots or sharing fun giraffe facts, I loved being part of those “aha!” moments—for kids and adults.

In 2007, I had the special assignment of Tiger Cub Watch with Hadiah, a young Sumatran tiger. It was unforgettable—crowd control, visitor education, and nonstop vigilance to keep both Hadiah and the public safe. She drew huge crowds, and our job was to protect her space and help others respectfully experience wildlife. It was one of the most memorable (and adorable) roles I’ve ever had.

That time at the zoo shaped values I still carry: curiosity, lifelong learning, and the power of community connection. A single conversation can shift someone’s view of the world—and I’ve never forgotten that.

SCA Nominating Committee

amymcforduvall

Building Regional Power for Small Cities Like Duvall

Since 2023, I’ve had the honor of serving on the Sound Cities Association (SCA) Nominating Committee—the group responsible for recommending which city leaders from across King County serve on regional boards and committees.

Why does this matter for Duvall?

Because representation matters. From transportation and public health to housing and climate policy, these regional boards make decisions that directly impact our community. I’ve worked to ensure that appointments reflect diverse voices, balanced geography, and the real needs of smaller cities like ours.

One of my proudest accomplishments: helping get more Snoqualmie Valley leaders onto key regional boards—including a Carnation City Councilmember appointed to a regional growth board where our valley hadn’t been as well represented in the past. Our communities matter, and we deserve a seat at every table where decisions are being made.

It’s behind-the-scenes work—but it’s how we make sure Duvall isn’t left behind.

USCG Birthday

amymcforduvall

Happy Birthday to the United States Coast Guard! ⚓️

Today, we honor 235 years of dedication, service, and sacrifice.

This photo is of my dad during his time in the US Coast Guard. His service—and the values it instilled—shaped the way I approach leadership: with integrity, resilience, and a commitment to something greater than myself.

To all who have served and continue to serve in the US Coast Guard, thank you for rescuing those in crisis, keeping ports safe, and standing watch through every storm.

Thank you for showing up every day to do the hard, necessary work. Semper Paratus—Always Ready.