Deputy Mayor John Palmer

John was re-elected to a third term representing District 2 beginning January 1, 2020. He  was chosen by his fellow Councilmembers to serve as Deputy Mayor for 2020 and 2021 after having served as mayor for 2018 and 2019. His current term ends on December 31, 2023.

Dedication

John is dedicated to making Puyallup a great place to live, work, and play by promoting smart development, building community, protecting our neighborhoods and town character, and ensuring a safe healthy city. John's top priority is public safety. One of his other priorities is building parks, trails, and recreational facilities for our families to enjoy for generations. He believes in a strong collaborative decision-making process for our city.

Background

John and his family have lived in the Puyallup area for over for 25 years. John grew up in Pullman, Washington and graduated from Pullman High School in 1980. He went to WSU and received a Bachelor’s in Science and minor in Economics in 1985. He was elected to the Student Council at WSU his senior year and was a professional rafting guide on Idaho’s Salmon River in the 1980s. John earned his Master’s in Public Administration at the UW's Dan Evans School of Public Affairs in 1991.

Employment

John currently works for the Environmental Protection Agency[1] in Seattle and is a regular commuter on the Sounder Train. He has worked for the agency for over 30 years in multiple programs and offices and is currently a Senior Policy Advisor. 

Public Service

Prior to serving on the Council, John served on Puyallup’s Planning Commission from 2008-2011 and was elected Chair of the Commission for three years. He was a Puyallup Herald guest columnist in 2007. He has also been a youth sports coach for fast-pitch and soccer.

[1] As a Councilmember, John is serving in his personal capacity and does not represent the EPA.

Employment

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