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March 13, 2026

"Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after the other."

-- Walter Elliot --

My response to allegations made in failed recall petition

If you've read the Auburn Reporter this morning, you've already seen the story -- I have responded in detail to allegations made against me in a failed recall petition in February. These allegations were serious and pointed, and most importantly, they were false. In addition to the Auburn Reporter story, I wanted to share my full statement on the topic, which you can read below -- I consider this matter closed, and I don't intend to make any further statements on this incident.

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Four months ago, the voters of Auburn overwhelmingly chose steady leadership, experience, and results in a fair, democratic election. This recall attempt sought to undermine that democratic decision with recycled allegations, distortions of past events, and claims that have already been publicly addressed and reconciled. 

Let me be clear: I have never used my office for personal gain, never granted unwarranted privileges, and never interfered in any criminal investigation. Allegations suggesting otherwise are false. The structure and oversight of the Auburn Police Department, and the City’s independent processes, exist precisely to prevent the kind of interference alleged. I take these rules seriously, and I follow them judiciously. 

The claim that I used my official position as Mayor to secure special privileges for my benefit is false. When I took office in January 2014, there were certain benefits in place for the Mayor that included 100% payout for both accrued vacation and sick leave at the end of my time in office. At the end of their respective terms, Mayor Booth received full payout of his vacation and a portion of his sick leave accruals, and Mayor Lewis received full payout of both his vacation and sick leave accruals – per the Auburn City Code (ACC) then in effect. In 2023, the Council discussed changing those benefits. I did seek legal counsel to ensure that my rights and benefits were not being denied. In the middle of my term in June of 2023, ultimately, the Council and I resolved our collective concerns, and the Council updated the ACC regarding what future mayors and I will be eligible to receive in compensation that is not salary. Salaries of the Mayor and Councilmembers will continue to be set by Auburn’s Independent Salary Commission.  

The accusations tied to past criminal cases, including references to former officer Jeff Nelson and the unfortunate and tragic death of Jesse Sarey, mischaracterize both my role and the legal realities of those cases. Court proceedings and prosecutorial decisions are handled through the judicial system and the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, not the Mayor’s Office. The City of Auburn respects and follows all decisions made by the jury in this case and has followed all state and court laws and procedures. 

With respect to Joshua Obadiah Headley, I have already publicly acknowledged that – knowing what I know now – I would not draft the letter again, and I regret doing so. I am human, and I make mistakes, but when I know better, I do better. I had no contact with him during his incarceration or since his release, nor has any department at the City of Auburn. We have not employed him nor worked with him since his release. The draft letter that is public record is just that – a draft. I did not use my mayoral position to request the judge to consider treatment for Mr. Headley. Even though his attorney asked for my statement, it was never submitted to the court. To continue weaponizing that situation for political purposes does nothing to support victims or strengthen our community. There was never any coordinated messaging after the fact, and there still isn’t – again, this was proven by follow-up records requests, which showed no conspiracy. 

This recall petition was reviewed through the legal process in King County Superior Court, as it should be. I am thankful that when the facts were evaluated, this effort was recognized for what it was: a political grievance masquerading as ethical concerns. Finding no factual or legal sufficiency, the Court dismissed the petition charges with prejudice. 

Auburn deserves serious leadership focused on public safety, economic stability, infrastructure, and community well-being – not ongoing campaign-season theatrics.  

Anyone who knows me knows how much I prefer to let the work speak for itself rather than leading by press conference – there’s just no way to square spending this much time responding to these ridiculous allegations as a good use of taxpayer money. I would prefer to focus on issues that affect all of Auburn, such as housing and food affordability, crime, education, access to enrichment, and more.  

I welcome all criticisms, no matter how harsh or blunt – but I will always push back when the narrative does not fit the facts. It’s OK to not like me or the decisions I’ve made – it’s not OK to distort the truth and present opinions as reality. My integrity is everything to me. The recall petition recently filed by Ronnie Morgan III was a politically motivated effort rooted in the disappointment of a failed campaign, not in facts, ethics violations, or misconduct. He even emailed me to tell me he was going to file, although in his words, “…the complaint doesn’t hold much weight…” 

I remain fully committed to serving this city with integrity, transparency, and accountability, as I have throughout my time in office, and I will continue to do so over the next four years.  

The voters spoke clearly in November. I intend to honor that trust by continuing the work for this community. 

Snnnnooooowwwwww

It snowed! Like much of the region, Auburn experienced a few hours of continuous snowfall Friday morning, which should be turning into rain. The National Weather Service predicts any accumulated snow or slush will continue to melt as the temperatures rise this afternoon.

If conditions worsen, please follow the City of Auburn on Facebook! That is where we will continue to post relevant, verified information. 

Snow will continue to fall a bit tonight heading into tomorrow, especially in higher elevations! The perfect excuse to head up to the mountains and snowshoe or ski (or snowboard).

There is warming shelter space in Auburn and surrounding areas for those who need it

As temperatures continue to hover around freezing and the region experiences intermittent snowfall and rain, the Sundown Overnight Shelter in Auburn will transition to also serve as an overnight warming shelter.

📅 Friday, March 13 - Sunday, March 15
⏰ 9 p.m. - 7 a.m.
📍 Sundown Overnight Shelter | 2806 Auburn Way N.

• Residents can also view additional info at King County Severe Weather Shelter Information.
• There are links to resources on the City of Auburn website.

Pink, power, and a whole lot of heart

If you’re looking for a fun night out in Auburn, I encourage you to check out Legally Blonde The Musical, opening this Friday and running through March 22. Presented by the Auburn Community Players, this high-energy production features a talented cast of 34 performers, lively choreography, and plenty of humor and heart as Elle Woods proves that believing in yourself can take you anywhere!

Community theater is such an important part of Auburn’s arts scene. It brings people together, showcases incredible local talent, and reminds us that creativity and storytelling thrive right here in our city. Shows like this take months of dedication from performers, directors, and volunteers, and I’m grateful for the passion they bring to Auburn’s cultural life. If you can, grab a ticket and support these amazing local performers -- you might even leave inspired to perfect your own “bend and snap!”

NOTE: Friday, March 13's show is CANCELLED due to inclement weather.

📅 Saturday, March 14 - Sunday, March 15
⏰ Various times
📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St.
💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Spots are still open for our Spring Community Emergency Response Team class!

One of the best ways we can look out for one another in Auburn is by being prepared, especially when emergencies happen. That’s why I’m excited to share that registration is now open for our next Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class!

CERT training gives everyday residents the tools and confidence to help themselves, their families, and their neighbors during and after disasters. From basic first aid to disaster response and team coordination, this free course helps turn concern into action.

Classes will meet Wednesday evenings from April 29 through June 13, 2026, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Auburn Emergency Operations Center. Participants will also take part in two Saturday drills on May 23 and June 13 to practice real-world skills.

(Click photo to view video)

Graduates receive a backpack filled with safety gear -- including a hard hat, reflective vest, goggles, and more -- to keep. All you need to bring is a pair of sturdy shoes and work gloves!

The best part? It's completely free!

If you’ve ever thought about getting more involved, learning new skills, or being ready to help when it matters most, I encourage you to sign up.

📅 April 29 - June 13
⏰ Various times
📍 Auburn Emergency Operations Center | 1 East Main St. Suite 380
🎟️ Register

Bringing Auburn's voice to Washington D.C.!

Next week, the Auburn City Council and I will travel to Washington, D.C., to participate in the National League of Cities Congressional City Conference, an annual gathering where local leaders from across the country come together to discuss the issues facing our communities and advocate directly with federal partners.

While we’re there, we’ll meet with members of Congress and participate in policy discussions on topics such as transportation, housing, public safety, and federal funding for local infrastructure. Conferences like this are an important opportunity to share Auburn’s story, learn from other cities, and bring back ideas, partnerships, and resources that will help us continue building a strong future for our community.

Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation is nominated! (in several categories!) Please support us, and VOTE!

Sometimes, you gotta just toot your own horn -- especially when it's this special.

Our Parks, Arts, and Recreation department has been nominated for Seattle's Child Family Favorites Reader's Choice Awards. We're nominated in several categories!! Look at vote for us in the following categories:

• Local Indoor Play Space for Kids - Auburn Community & Event Center's Indoor Playground
• Local Kid-Friendly Bike Trail - Cedar Lanes Bike Park
• Local Family-Friendly Park - Les Gove Park
• Local Playground for Elementary-Aged Kids - Lea Hill Park
• Local Family-Friendly Inclusive Playground - Les Gove Park
• Local Family-Friendly Place: Indoor Birthday Party - City of Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Makerspace Birthday
• Local Family-Friendly Place: Outdoor Birthday Party - City of Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation Rock Climbing Parties
• Local Family-Friendly Farm - Mary Olson Farm
• Local Family-Friendly Museum - White River Valley Museum 
• Local Kid-Friendly Outdoor Dining Restaurant - Bogey's Public House at Auburn Golf Course
• Local Day Camp/Class: Arts & Crafts - Postmark Center for the Arts
• Local Day Camp/Class: Climbing - KidCrawlers (City of Auburn)
• Local Day Camp/Class: Inclusive: Auburn Specialized Recreation Program
• Multi-Activity Day Camp: Auburn Parks, Arts & Recreation - Mix & Match Camp Program
• Local Day Camp/Class: Performing Arts - Auburn Community Players Jr. Camp OR Auburn Parks Theater Camps

You can vote online in the survey on the Seattle Child website!

Auburn Community Players: Legally Blonde The Auburn Community Players present a fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances - this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal! NOTE: Friday, March 13's show is CANCELLED due to inclement weather. 📅 Saturday, March 14 - Sunday, March 15 ⏰ Various times 📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St. 💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Second Saturdays - Art x Music Festival Celebration Visit Postmark Center for the Arts, open to the public each Second Saturday from 12-4PM! Each month features FREE, all ages performances, crafts, and events! Celebrate the coming of spring with the Seattle Chinese Music Ensemble and participate in a community painting activity!  1:00 - 2:00 PM Collaborative Art with Larine Chung Inspired by the beauty of both Chinese and Western musical traditions, families will be encouraged to paint along with the music, responding intuitively to rhythm, harmony, and sound. Participants will help create three, large-scale canvases themed around spring and personal connections.  This event is family friendly, and no previous art experience is required. All supplies will be provided. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County. 📅 Saturday, March 14 ⏰ Noon - 4 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

The Legacy of the Chinese Exclusion Act Join author Trish Hackett Nicola as she brings life to the case files of Chinese laborers and their families that were impacted by the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 in her new book Chinese in Washington: The Legacy of the Chinese Exclusion Act. 📅 Saturday, March 14 ⏰ 2 - 3 p.m. 📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE 🎟️ Register

Make and Mingle @ Postmark Stop by the Postmark for our Make & Mingle session! Join us for a cup of coffee with whatever art project you might be working on. A free, no-pressure environment for artists and creatives to gather... you can talk with other artists, ask for feedback or critique from on-site staff if available, bring your sketchbook to work out ideas, or just quietly draw in the gallery or work on your art! Intended for ages 18+. 📅 Wednesdays ⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Drop-In Drawing @ Postmark Come stop by for our new Drop-In Drawing sessions at the Postmark! A free, no-pressure environment for artists and creatives to drop-in to draw from a still life or the gallery. Stay for whole two hours or only 10 minutes. Bring tools to either shade or color with, and your own sketchbook or drawing pad. There will be on-site help for critique/questions/advice. All are welcome. Ages: 15+ Registration: $0 Instructor: Postmark Staff 📅 Fridays ⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Drop-In Painting With Amy Sie @ Postmark Amy Sie is offering Drop-In Gongbi Painting sessions at the Postmark! A free, no-pressure environment for you to start a new painting, or work on an old one. Please bring your own tools and materials for watercolor painting. On-site help for critique/questions/advice. All are welcome.  Ages: 18+ Fee: $0 Instructor: Amy Sie 📅 Fridays ⏰ 10 a.m. - Noon 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Auburn Community Players: Legally Blonde The Auburn Community Players present a fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances - this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal! 📅 Friday, March 20 - Sunday March 22 ⏰ Various times 📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St. 💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

History & Future of Rag Rug Weaving Workshop Join visual artist and weaver Allyce Wood for a creative workshop full of textile interpretation, creative design, and technical skill building to understand the wide world of rag rug weaving. Look into the historic archive at the Mary Olson Farm to study and take inspiration from rugs from the early 20th century, as well as contemporary pieces Wood has on display at the Postmark Center for the Arts, AIR exhibition, to understand both the feminist past and creative future of this medium. Together, you will learn how to upcycle garments into weaveable fibers, build your understanding of looms and warping techniques, and try your hand at weaving a rag rug on a communal frame loom. This class aims to provide the inspiration, theoretical knowledge, and real hands-on practice to build your own future weaving projects. 📅 Thursday, March 26 ⏰ 5 - 7 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Comedy at the Course Comedy at the Course will keep you laughing all night long as three comedians work to twist your funny bone. Ages 18 and over only. 📅 Friday, March 27 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Auburn Golf Course - Bogey's Public House | 29630 Green River Road SE 💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student/senior)

Cultures of the Valley Family Day Free Family Event! Learn more about some of the cultures that call the valley home in the first of two Family Day programs during our exhibit Shaping the Valley. Join us as we explore Japanese and Marshalles cultures through fun activities and crafts. Be sure the visit again in May to learn about more cultures that make the Valley great! All ages welcome! View more info at www.wrvmuseum.org. 📅 Saturday, March 28 ⏰ Noon - 4 p.m. 📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE

Peter Cotton Trail Friday, April 3 - Monday, April 6 Hop through Auburn's parks and trails in search of the elusive bunnies who will be hidden in various locations around Auburn. Find 10 bunnies, submit a scorecard, and get entered for a chance to win some awesome prizes! This family-friendly event is perfect for all ages, including seniors and those in the specialized recreation community. It's a great way to get outside, stay active and enjoy the outdoors! More info on auburnwa.gov. 📅 Friday, April 3 - Monday, April 6 ⏰ Dawn to dusk 📍 Various parks

Gotta Catch 'em All Spring Break Drop-in Days Create your own set of Pacific Northwest Pokémon cards! Each day we will learn about native creatures from our area and create new Pokémon cards. Be sure to visit each day as we focus on different animals each day! 📅 Wed. April 8 - Fri. April 10 ⏰ Noon - 4 p.m. 📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE

Rhythm and Rhymes: Story Hour with Auburn Symphony Orchestra Join us at the Postmark Center for the Arts from 10am - 11am for Rhythm and Rhymes, a unique collaboration between Auburn Symphony Orchestra and the Auburn Library. Taking inspiration from a children’s book, an ASO musician will teach an age-appropriate, interactive music program, and an Auburn librarian will then read the story aloud. Afterwards, families will be invited to explore instruments, and receive a craft to take home. Rhythm and Rhymes combines music and literature for children and families to enjoy over the course of 45 minutes. This event is free and family friendly. Funded by the Postmark Programming Grant and 4 Culture King County. FREE | ALL AGES 📅 Saturday, April 11 ⏰ 10 - 11 a.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

Second Saturdays - Print Studio OPEN HOUSE Visit Postmark Center for the Arts, open to the public each Second Saturday from 12-4PM! Each month features FREE, all ages performances, crafts, and events! Join us for an interactive afternoon of printmaking demos, studio tours, snacks, and giveaways to celebrate the opening of our new print studio! Our newly renovated lower-level art studios have added around 2,000 square feet of dedicated artmaking space. Beginning April 1, 2026 artists will be able to enroll in a monthly studio membership and work on their personal projects in our brand new studio space! Stop by the open house to learn more. This event is family friendly, and no previous art experience is required. 📅 Saturday, April 11 ⏰ Noon - 4 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

13 Til Midnight - Taylor Swift Tribute Are you a Swifty? Then we have the show for you! 13 Til Midnight is the Taylor Swift Tribute Band! Performing songs from a wide range of Taylor's albums and eras, from the hits to fan favorite deep cuts. They have something every Taylor Fan! 📅 Saturday, April 11 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St. 💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Blood Drive at Auburn City Hall  Be someone's hero today and donate blood. The Bloodworks Bloodmobile will be located outside City Hall.  Appointments are required for the best possible donation experience. Same-day appointments available at most locations. Photo ID required. For safety, we kindly request no visitors under 16 at our donation sites. Eat a hearty meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to donation. Book your one hour appointment at bloodworksnw.org/giveblood 📅 Tuesday, April 14 ⏰ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 📍 Auburn City Hall | 25 W. Main Street 🎟️ Register

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Class Registration Class will be held on Wednesday evenings April 29, 2026 through June 13, 2026 from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. There will be two Saturday Drills: May 23, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM June 13, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM CERT training is designed to teach community members how to help themselves and the people around them during and after a disaster. The Auburn CERT class is offered free of charge. Class graduates will receive a backpack, hard hat, a reflective vest, safety goggles, and other gear to keep. Participants are asked to provide their own work gloves and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Register for the class here: www.auburnwa.gov/CERT For more information please call 253-876-1925 or email emergencyprep@auburnwa.gov. Cost: $0 Full info available at www.auburnwa.gov/CERT 📅 Wednesday, April 15 ⏰ 6 - 9:30 p.m. 📍 Auburn Emergency Operations Center | 1 E. Main St. 🎟️ Register

Closing Reception | AIR: Auburn Artists in Residence Join us for the closing reception of AIR: Auburn Artists in Residence at Postmark Center for the Arts! Visit the gallery and take a last look, enjoy light snacks, and listen to artist talks.  📅 Thursday, April 16 ⏰ 5 - 7 p.m.. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave.

AT Large Join us for a night of wonderful music with these two award winning musicians from Sequim, WA. This duo combines Amanda Bacon’s amazing vocals with Todd Ortloff’s musical talents on the piano. Amanda & Todd will dazzle you with their flawless harmonies and fabulous stage presence. Come spend and evening with AT Large! 📅 Friday, April 17 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave. 💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student)

Clean Sweep Auburn’s 2026 Clean Sweep will be held Saturday, April 18. This event is held in honor of Earth Day. Projects will focus on clean-up, environmental restoration, and beautification efforts in and around Auburn. Volunteer groups will work on light clean-up and maintenance; landscaping, painting, weeding, and planting in and around downtown and at various park sites; and a handful of other projects as needed Volunteers can either choose to participate in a specific project or can ask to be assigned to any project, in which case your group will be assigned where the most volunteer support is needed. Service clubs, social service agencies, faith-based groups, scouting troops, businesses, families, and individuals are being asked to come together and work on these projects.  Please plan accordingly to bring your own source of water for the 3-hour event.  The morning agenda for Saturday, April 18 is as follows:  7:30 - 8:30 AM …… Optional Check in - Auburn Community & Events Center 7:30 - 8:30 AM ……Optional Welcome Breakfast - Auburn Community & Events Center 8:45 - 9:00 AM ......Check in at project location - emailed in advance ***Be sure to bring your own water to your project*** 9:00 - 12:00 PM ......Volunteers commence project tasks  Online Registration closes Wednesday, April 15 at 5:00 PM.  Registrations will not be accepted April 16 or 17. Volunteers interested in participating but have not registered, can register on-site at park locations TBA. Important Links: Online Registration Form Registration Form (PDF) Group Waiver (PDF) 2026 Fact Sheet (PDF)      📅 Saturday, April 18 ⏰ 9 a.m. - Noon 📍 Auburn Community & Events Center | 910 Ninth St. SE 🎟️ Register

Comedy at the Course Comedy at the Course will keep you laughing all night long as three comedians work to twist your funny bone. Ages 18 and over only. 📅 Saturday, April 18 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Auburn Golf Course - Bogey's Public House | 29630 Green River Road SE 💲 Tickets ($22 regular, $19 student/senior)

Winning Her Wings: Living Voices Free Program | Appropriate for ages 12 & Up Who were the first women to fly for the United States military?   How did sexism, racism and antisemitism shape the wartime experiences of minority women? Developed in partnership with the Museum of Flight, Museum of History & Industry, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and Boeing. RSVP to attend - Register Online 📅 Saturday, Apirl 25 ⏰ 2 p.m. 📍 White River Valley Museum | 918 H St. SE 🎟️ Register

Auburn Symphony Orchestra - Old and New Step into a world where baroque elegance meets contemporary color. Old and New blends the timeless charm of trio sonatas by Bach and Quantz with the rhythmic sparkle of Ilja Hurnik and the meditative beauty of Hilary Tann’s Shoji, inspired by Japanese paper screens. Auburn Symphony musicians Wendy Wilhelmi (flute), Shannon Spicciati (oboe), Olga Ruvinov (cello), and Lorenzo Marasso (harpsichord) bring this luminous evening to life. 📅 Saturday, April 25 ⏰ 7 - 8:30 p.m. 📍 Postmark Center for the Arts | 20 Auburn Ave. 💲 Tickets ($36 regular, $12 student)

Chicago Tribute Authority Chicago Tribute Authority - brings the legendary sound of Chicago to life with an ensemble of 11 of the Northwest’s most skilled and versatile musicians. With a powerful horn section, dynamic percussion, and outstanding vocal talent, this tribute band delivers a high-energy, authentic performance that captures the spirit and precision of the iconic rock band. Experience the music of Chicago like never before, right here in the Pacific Northwest!! 📅 Saturday, April 25 ⏰ 7:30 p.m. 📍 Green River College Student Affairs Building | 12401 SE 320th St. 💲 Tickets ($25 regular, $22 student/senior)

Part of the fun living in Auburn is getting this miraculous view multiple times a year!

Auburn is rich with history — from historical Main Street to the artifacts preserved throughout White River Valley Museum — I am excited to share these stories with all of you each week. 

Believe it or not, blackboards weren't always a thing

(Image courtesy of White River Valley Museum)

Blackboards started being used in classrooms in the early 1800s. Inspired by smaller slates, large blackboards were made of wooden boards painted black with extra grit mixed into the paint. By the 1930s, manufacturers began making boards out of green enamel-coated steel panels. These green boards were marketed as better for children’s eyes, more durable, and were sold under the newer product name “chalkboard.” Chalkboards changed how classroom education worked, moving students’ eyes up from their textbooks to follow the teacher writing at the front of the room.