Chief of staff responds columnist Bob Roegner | Letter

I would like to respond to Mr. Roegner’s column which was published on Nov. 11. I have had the privilege of serving the citizens of Federal Way for the past 20 years, including eight years as Chief of Police and the past three years as Chief of Staff to the Mayor. I have continued serving long- past my retirement eligibility because I care deeply about the people of this community and feel I have something positive to contribute.

We all must be government watchdogs and hold public officials accountable for their actions. But it’s not healthy for our democracy, even at the local government level, to let unfounded complaints and allegations against public officials be used as tactics to smear for political advantage. The recent “charges” against me were independently investigated and deemed to be unfounded. The damage continues, as evidenced by Mr. Roegner’s column which continues to raise questions and doubt. These tactics foster distrust in government, distract public officials from their work, and make it harder to attract capable people to public service. I find it disheartening.

The city acted with integrity, and in the interests of its citizens, with regards to the Weyerhaeuser campus. We sought out and established a working relationship with Heartland which had been retained by Weyerhaeuser to market the campus. Advocating for the interests of the city, our citizens, and the importance of bringing jobs, economic development, and preserving the iconic nature of the Corporate Headquarters Building was the priority. Showcasing that the City as “open for business” and responsive to investment and development was the culture we wanted to convey.

Attracting responsible growth and development for our changing population and demographics is critical to establishing well-paying jobs and a solid future for Federal Way. The health of our schools, the development of our downtown, and ensuring safety and quality of life for our citizens are essential. Our efforts with the Performing Arts and Events Center, Town Square Park, future hotel development, bringing light rail to Federal Way, and the adaptive reuse and development of the former Weyerhaeuser campus are important for the future of Federal Way.

The city of Federal Way remains committed to following the law and process to insure appropriate development and that the vision and goals of the city and our citizens are met.

Brian J. Wilson, City of Federal Way chief of staff