John Lovick, former state legislator and Washington State Trooper, was named Snohomish County’s fourth county executive Monday following a unanimous vote by the County Council.
Lovick, serving as Snohomish County Sheriff for the previous five years, immediately relinquished his position in law enforcement, embracing the new role bestowed upon him.
“I am honored by the confidence you’ve placed in me,” he told Council members. “I am deeply humbled to be your new Snohomish County Executive.”
Lovick spoke briefly to the several hundred employees and residents who attended the vote and swearing-in ceremony, talking about the need to continue the hard work county employees do every day.
“Tremendous work is done every day by our employees. They are the ambassadors and foot soldiers of this county,” he said. “I pledge to serve as county executive with respect, commitment and pride, but above all, I will serve with integrity.”
County Council Chair Stephanie Wright applauded Lovick on his appointment.
“We look forward to working with Executive John Lovick and his team,” she said. “This is a new day in Snohomish County and working collaboratively on transportation, aerospace and economic development issues, we can continue to strengthen our community and make Snohomish County the best place to raise a family and start a business.”
Lovick first served in office as a Mill Creek City Council member from 1993 to 1998, serving as mayor pro tempore during his final year.
He went on to serve the 44th Legislative District in the state House of Representatives until 2007 and then ran successfully for Snohomish County Sheriff in 2007.
His law enforcement experience is long-measured, working with the Washington State Patrol from 1974 to 2004, retiring with the rank of sergeant.
He was named Trooper of the Year in 1992 by the state patrol and Sheriff of the Year in 2009 by the Washington State Crime Prevention Association.
Lovick also served his country as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Coast Guard Reserves.
“This is a wonderful place to live work and play,” he said. “We will continue to make it even better.”
Lovick and his wife, Karen, live in Mill Creek.
