During Monday night’s City Council meeting, I was honored to receive the Advanced Certificate of Municipal Leadership (ACML) from the Association of Washington Cities (AWC). This recognition reflects not just a milestone in my service, but an ongoing commitment to growth, learning, and leadership in local government.

The ACML builds on the Certificate of Municipal Leadership I earned in 2023. To qualify, I completed more than 70 hours of advanced training covering a wide range of topics, including roles and legal responsibilities, public sector resource management, community planning and development, effective local leadership, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The trainings that I appreciated the most included workshops on housing policy, infrastructure, climate action, budgeting, and community engagement, all focused on strengthening how I serve and respond to the people I represent.

To complete the advanced certification, I also met AWC’s community service requirement, which asks elected officials to step beyond their formal roles and contribute meaningfully to the broader civic landscape. I’ve done this in several ways, including serving on King County regional committees and councils, and through my work with the Issaquah Alps Trails Club, where I’ve helped support local conservation and expand access to outdoor recreation.

I’ve always believed that good governance begins with preparation, and that learning doesn’t stop once you’re elected. From housing and transportation to public engagement and budgeting, these trainings continue to shape how I approach my work on the Renton City Council and how I’ll continue to lead if elected to the King County Council.

I’m grateful to AWC for investing in the development of local leaders and deeply thankful to the Renton community for the opportunity to keep growing and serving in this role.

In service,

Ryan