Association of Washington Cities (AWC) Conference

This week I attended the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) Annual Conference in the beautiful Tri-Cities!

It’s been a full week of connecting with city leaders from across the state, diving into sessions on many of the issues that matter most to Duvall—like affordable housing, public safety, infrastructure, strengthening small city economies and so much more.

One of the best parts of this conference is the opportunity to hear what’s working (and not working) in other communities. These conversations with regional leaders help us bring back fresh ideas and avoid pitfalls others have already experienced.

From touring local projects to learning from experts in the field, I’m proud to be representing Duvall and making sure our voice is part of the statewide conversation.

As I campaign to be Duvall’s next mayor, I’m actively learning, listening, and building the relationships we need to make progress. From talking with mayors of similar-sized cities to learning from statewide experts, I’m bringing back practical ideas and inspiration for what’s possible in Duvall.

This campaign is about forward-thinking leadership rooted in real community values—and I’m excited to continue showing up for Duvall, both at home and at the tables where decisions are being made.

#fortheloveofduvall#duvallwa#VoteAmy

Parks

Parks Are More Than Just Green Spaces! In Duvall, our parks are where memories are made—birthday parties at Big Rock, taking your dog for a stroll through McCormick, quiet moments on a bench by the river or watching your kids explore the playground at Taylor Park.

But these spaces don’t take care of themselves.

As your next Mayor, I’ll prioritize investments in our parks—ensuring they stay clean, safe, and accessible for all. That means maintaining what we have, improving amenities, and making sure every neighborhood has access to green space close to home. Let’s protect the places that bring us together.

What’s your favorite park in Duvall—or your favorite memory in one?

#DuvallParks#ForTheLoveOfDuvall#CommunityFirst#VoteAmyMcHenry

A Little Bit About Me

When people ask where I’m from, I usually smile and say, “How much time do you have?”

I was born in Central Washington, but as a kid growing up with a Coast Guard dad, we moved every few years—bouncing between Washington and Florida four times! One of the most memorable places we lived was West Seattle, where my dad served as the caretaker of the Alki Lighthouse. If you ever visit, check out the two houses at the front—we lived in the one on the right!

We moved back to Central Washington when my grandmother was diagnosed with terminal cancer to spend as much time with her as possible. My grandparents owned a cattle ranch in Ellensburg, and we settled nearby while I finished school in the tiny town of Kittitas, where my graduating class had just 28 people.

So many folks I meet in Duvall share a similar story—growing up in a small town, drawn here because this place feels like home. I feel it too. That’s part of what makes Duvall so special. Even those coming from bigger cities are falling in love with the charm of a community where everyone waves, and strangers quickly become friends.

Small Acts of Kindness

A while ago, I was walking through town and noticed something sweet—soda cans filled with flowers, tucked onto shop steps, windowsills, and benches. No names, no fanfare—just quiet little love notes to the community.

It’s the kind of gesture that makes you pause and smile.

It’s these small acts of kindness, the unspoken care between neighbors, that make Duvall feel like home. As a candidate for mayor, that’s the spirit I want to nurture and protect—a town where people still look out for each other, where beauty shows up in the simplest ways.

Let’s keep that heart alive in Duvall.

Throwback Thursday

Throwback Thursday to one of my favorite Duvall traditions — Light Up Duvall!

Every November—rain or shine—volunteers bundle up, grab ladders and light strands, and head out early on a Saturday morning to line Main Street with holiday cheer. It’s that small-town magic in action—neighbors coming together to bring warmth and sparkle to our city just in time for the season.

For us, it started with our two young kids, thinking we could tackle just one of the bigger trees. Now, all these years later, those boys are taller than me—and they’re the ones climbing the ladder while I hand them the strands!

Huge thanks to everyone who helps make this event shine brighter each year. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of community spirit.