#amymchenryforduvall – Page 2 – Amy McHenry for Duvall Mayor

Keeping Duvall’s Police Department Local

July 21, 2025July 23, 2025 amymcforduvall

The idea of police regionalization has been brought up in past City Council meetings. While regional partnerships can make sense in certain sectors—like our Fire District, which has been a successful and beneficial collaboration—I do not support regionalizing our police services.

Maintaining our own police department is about more than just cost. While some cities may see temporary savings when contracting out, those savings are often short-lived. Many are now experiencing steep increases in contract costs—and with far less local control.

But beyond the financials, what matters most is trust, relationships, and responsiveness. Our officers are not just public servants—they’re part of the Duvall community. I’ve seen them model a respectful, community-centered approach to policing that reflects the values we hold dear: integrity, accountability, and service.

As a parent, I’ve seen this connection in ways that truly stick with families. My kids still talk about the time they got “arrested” (all in fun!) at National Night Out, and the day our lieutenant played frisbee with them at a community picnic. Those small moments build familiarity, trust, and a sense of safety. My oldest—now a student at Cedarcrest High School—appreciates the presence of our School Resource Officer. That early connection with youth is vital to maintaining strong community relationships.

I believe a majority of the City Council shares this view, and for good reason. Our community values having officers who know our streets, know our neighbors, and are committed to keeping Duvall safe in a way that reflects our values.

Let’s keep it that way.

Fiscal Sustainability

July 13, 2025October 28, 2025 amymcforduvall

As we plan for Duvall’s future, strong financial stewardship will continue to matter more than ever.

Over the years, our city has navigated tight budgets, rising costs, and growing demands on local services. City staff and leaders have worked hard to keep things running smoothly — and that effort deserves real recognition. I’m committed to honoring what’s been done — but also to taking a hard look at what’s not working, and driving the changes our community expects and deserves.

Fiscal responsibility isn’t just about spending less — it’s about being thoughtful with every dollar, communicating clearly, and investing in long-term solutions that serve the whole city.

If elected Mayor, I will:

• Prioritize sustainable, transparent budgeting

• Focus on long-term planning over short-term fixes

• Communicate clearly about where funds are going and why

• Make room for the things that matter most to Duvall — from infrastructure to public safety to parks and recreation

I look forward to working closely with our City Council, dedicated staff, and engaged community to keep Duvall moving forward with a shared commitment to transparency, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility.

We don’t need to wait for a crisis to make improvements. Real progress comes from thoughtful, intentional changes — grounded in listening, planning, and a shared belief that we can always do better for the people we serve.

This photo is from a Main Street building that recently got a makeover—and I love when businesses, while customizing for their needs, choose to preserve historic elements for everyone to enjoy. It keeps our community’s character alive!

Why am I running for Mayor?

July 12, 2025July 15, 2025 amymcforduvall

This is the top question I’ve been getting recently, and I want to share the answer here too in case we haven’t had a chance to speak yet: Why am I Running for Mayor?

This community means everything to me. Duvall is where I’m raising my family, where I’ve built friendships, and where I’ve spent the last 8 years listening, learning, and working hard on City Council to make thoughtful decisions for our future.

I’m running for mayor because I care deeply about the people who live here—and I believe our city needs steady, experienced, and compassionate leadership as we navigate what’s next.

I want to protect what we love most about Duvall, while making sure we’re planning wisely and responsibly. That means keeping our city safe and financially sound, improving how we serve residents, and working in partnership with our community every step of the way.

This isn’t about politics for me—it’s about service. And I’m ready to keep showing up, doing the work, and leading with heart.

Thanks for being part of this with me.

A Little Bit About Me

June 21, 2025 amymcforduvall

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.