I recently had the opportunity to respond to a question from the Duvall Chamber of Commerce Mayoral Candidate Forum, though it was cancelled, I wanted to share my answer here.
Q: Why should Duvall’s small business owners and residents trust you to lead the city through its next chapter — and how will your approach ensure that Duvall remains both economically vibrant and deeply connected as a community?
My answer: Trust is earned, not given, and for me, trust starts with three things: listening, consistency, and results.
Over the past eight years on City Council, I’ve worked hard to build that trust by showing up, being transparent, and following through on what I say I’ll do. Whether it’s at a council meeting, a neighborhood event, or just talking with someone at the coffee shop downtown, I make a point to listen — really listen — to what people are experiencing and what they need from their local government.
What sets me apart is that I don’t approach this work from a distance. I live the same realities as everyone else in Duvall. I’m a parent navigating school drop-offs and morning traffic on Main Street. I’m a small business owner who understands how much time, heart, and personal investment it takes to make a local business thrive. And I’m a neighbor who cares deeply about the kind of community we’re building together, one that stays welcoming, connected, and true to its small-town roots even as we grow.
As mayor, my approach will be about steady, practical leadership. That means keeping our city financially stable, managing growth responsibly, and making decisions based on what’s best for the long-term health of Duvall, not just the short-term headlines.
Economically, that begins with supporting our small businesses, which are the backbone of our local economy and the heartbeat of our downtown. I want to make it easier to do business in Duvall by simplifying permits, modernizing how people access information and city services, and creating clearer communication between business owners and City Hall. I also plan to bring our business community, the Chamber, and City staff together regularly through a Small Business Roundtable, so we’re not just reacting to challenges, but working side by side to find solutions.
At the same time, we need to look ahead by making smart investments in infrastructure, safe transportation options, and reliable services that keep Duvall moving. When we plan well, we don’t just solve today’s problems — we set ourselves up for success for the next generation. But a vibrant city isn’t built only on economics; it’s built on connection. That’s something I care deeply about. I want residents to feel empowered and involved in shaping the city’s direction. One of my goals is to launch Civic 101 workshops, informal classes where residents can learn how city government really works, how to advocate effectively, and how to get involved in local decision-making. Because good government doesn’t happen to people, it happens with people.
Ultimately, I want Duvall to remain not just a place where people live, but a community where people belong. That takes leadership that’s accessible, responsive, and grounded in the values that make this city special — kindness, accountability, and collaboration.
So when I talk about leading Duvall through its next chapter, what I really mean is continuing the work of bringing people together, listening first, being transparent about challenges, and leading with heart. Because that’s how we’ll keep Duvall both economically strong and deeply connected as a community.
Amy McHenry for Duvall Mayor 