President’s Corner | By Chad Eiken, AICP 

I hope you are all finding time to enjoy the summer weather and explore the best places that the Pacific Northwest has to offer. To say the least, I feel fortunate during this time of year to have found my way here from the Midwest over 30 years ago!

I’m pleased to report that this past month the Board of Directors adopted new Rules of Professional Conduct and Procedures which were developed to ensure that APA WA events – whether in person or virtual – create a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment free of discrimination and harassment in any form, for everyone. The policy, which is modeled on National APA’s policy, outlines prohibited conduct at APA WA training events and functions, and procedures for following up on complaints of any violation of the policy. All attendees of APA WA-affiliated events (including those hosted by Sections) will be asked to acknowledge that they have read and agree to abide by the Rules of Conduct. Read the full Code of Conduct here.

We are still looking for volunteers who are willing to serve on any of our 15 committees (yes, there’s definitely one for you!). The time commitment is minimal, but your involvement will help make APA WA even more effective and you will be rewarded with new contacts and a sense of accomplishment in giving back to the planning profession!

To volunteer, please complete the APA WA volunteer interest form here.

Work continues on planning the 2025 APA WA Annual Conference in Tacoma (October 8-10), and I look forward to seeing you there for three action-packed days of learning, inspiration, and socializing. More details on the conference can be found in the article by Nancy Eklund, this year’s Conference Committee Co-Chair.