Throwing it back to where it all began—with this photo of Ryan and me early on in our journey together. And then fast forward to this last December, when we had a spontaneous “meet cute” all over again in a little shop in Honolulu.
Ryan was chaperoning the CHS band trip that Sean was on and had some downtime to go shopping. I was traveling separately with my Dad and Taylor and squeezed in a bit of shopping myself. Somehow, we both ended up in the same shop at the same time! Ryan surprised me with virgin piña coladas since I was just two weeks post-surgery, and we spent a wonderful time catching up and swapping travel stories.
My love for Ryan runs deep, and I’m forever grateful for his unwavering support in everything I do—through every twist and turn of this journey.
Celebrating 19 years of love, partnership, and teamwork tonight at the Summerstage concert. Here’s to many more memories and to the incredible community that makes moments like these possible.
When people ask what my background is—it’s definitely not a straight line, but every step has shaped where I am today.
I graduated from Western Washington University with a degree in Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology (what used to be called Biology with emphasis in Zoology!) and a minor in Humanities. My college years were full of exploration—both in the classroom and out in the field—studying everything from marine mammals and population genetics to Shakespeare and Japanese art history. It was a blend of science, culture, and curiosity that shaped how I see the world.
After college, I jumped headfirst into environmental education at Cougar Mountain Zoo, leading tours, managing volunteers, and developing programs that helped connect people—especially kids—with wildlife and conservation. I actually started there as an intern, but quickly discovered that my real strength wasn’t just in the science—it was in helping people understand it. I found so much purpose in making complex ideas accessible and engaging, especially for young learners. I loved the hands-on work and the chance to make learning come alive.
As Education Coordinator, I also found deep fulfillment in community outreach—supporting interns, planning events, and building partnerships. I’ve always believed in the power of collaboration to make good things happen. During that time, I also stayed active as a volunteer docent at Woodland Park Zoo, continuing to share my love of science and conservation with the public.
After being married a few years, my husband and I decided we were ready to start a family. That led me to a more flexible role at Microsoft, managing their Patent Incentive Program. It allowed me to stay professionally engaged while creating more space for family life.
Each chapter of my journey—from science to education to tech—has been guided by a love of learning, connection, and creativity. That same spirit continues to guide me in public service, where I believe thoughtful communication, transparency, and a people-first mindset are essential to leadership.
When people ask me what’s on my agenda as Mayor, my top priority is clear: finish the big capital projects that matter to our community.
One of the biggest investments our city will make in the coming years is the development of a new Civic Campus—a consolidated space for City Hall, police, and community services.
Right now, city functions are spread across aging buildings with limited accessibility and no room for growth. We’ve already seen the benefits of investing in our facilities—remodeling the Wastewater Treatment Plant Office improved access and efficiency for staff and the public alike. A new Civic Campus would build on that momentum: bringing key services under one roof, improving daily operations, and creating a welcoming, accessible space for everyone. It would also free up critically needed Main Street commercial space for local businesses.
I’ve been participating in the City Facilities Site Selection Group meetings, a foundational step to developing formal recommendations on the best pathways forward. This work is critical—not just for creating much-needed space for our staff and emergency operations, but for designing a community asset we can all use and enjoy.
The Civic Campus isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about people. This will be a versatile new community space—a place to host events, bring neighbors together, and pump more energy into the economic heart of Duvall.
It’s a major project—and a long-term one. That means careful planning, public input, and responsible funding strategies will be critical every step of the way. We need a design that reflects our small-town character while preparing us for the future. I’m committed to ensuring this project stays transparent, community-driven, and fiscally sound—and that it truly serves Duvall for generations to come.
Today we celebrate the values that make our country strong—freedom, community, and a deep love for the place we call home.
I’m grateful every day to live in a town that embodies those values so well. Whether you’re watching fireworks, joining a neighborhood BBQ, or enjoying the parade down in Carnation, I hope your day is filled with pride in Duvall and in each other.
Democracy isn’t passive. It’s something we must build, protect, and renew—together.
I believe local government can be a model for that renewal.
In our small city, we still have the power to listen, to work across differences, and to put community ahead of partisanship. It may not be flashy, but it’s where real change starts.
So today, I’m not just celebrating our independence—I’m recommitting to the responsibility it asks of us. To keep showing up. To keep striving. To keep believing that the work of building a future that’s worthy of the next generation is still ours to do – together.
Throwback Thursday to those chilly mornings hauling trees for our local Scouts during their annual Christmas Tree Pickup!
My kids have been part of Troop 745 and Pack 568—and over the years, they’ve helped haul a lot of trees! Driving the vehicle was the easy part—watching these Scouts work together, hustle up driveways, and make it fun was the real highlight. Duvall is lucky to have such dedicated young leaders (and parents!) keeping this beloved tradition going strong.
This annual effort is such a great example of what makes Duvall special: neighbors pitching in, Scouts learning the value of service, and a community that shows up for each other—even in the cold!
Thanks to everyone who supported the Scouts and helped recycle your trees the green way!
Amy McHenry for Duvall Mayor 