January 17, 2008

Schmick draws key committee appointment

Just days before the Legislature convened Monday for the 2008 session in Olympia, 9th District Rep. Joe Schmick received confirmation that he had been appointed to a coveted seat on the House Appropriations Committee.

It is a rare accomplishment for a freshman lawmaker to advance so quickly to the powerful budget-writing panel, but caucus leaders said Schmick made a persuasive case when he met with them to discuss his committee priorities.

In announcing Schmick’s assignment, House Republican Leader Richard DeBolt said the Colfax freshman brings energy, commitment and valuable real-life experience to the caucus.

“Equally important,” he said, “Joe has the work ethic that’s essential for Appropriations, which is one of the most demanding committee jobs in the Legislature. Our leadership team has a lot of confidence in him.”

Schmick also will serve on the Higher Education and Local Government committees, both of which, he said, deal with policy and issues that are important to his district.

“I look forward to the opportunities my committee assignments provide to focus on critical areas of public policy,” he added.

During the Legislature’s opening-day ceremonies, Schmick was chosen by Speaker Frank Chopp to be part of the two-member House delegation that carried the message to the governor that the House was organized and ready to do business.

“It was a pleasure to have a role in the traditional exchange of greetings that accompany the start of a new session,” Schmick remarked. “Our visit with the governor was short but collegial, and hopefully sets the stage for productive accomplishments.”

Schmick took time to enjoy the day’s ceremonial events, but was clearly anxious to get to work.

“I am grateful for the privilege of representing the citizens of our district, and it is one of the greatest honors of my life,” he said. “There are some tough political realities here, but I believe it’s not only possible but imperative to find common ground on controversial issues. We have an important job to do, and I don’t intend to get mired down in partisan differences.”

The 49-year-old Schmick, a farmer and small business owner, was appointed to his House seat Nov. 26, succeeding David Buri, who resigned to take a position at Eastern Washington University.