Term of Office
Elected: 01/01/2006-12/31/2009
How to Contact
Mail: Olympia City Council
PO Box 1967
Olympia, WA 98507-1967
Phone: 360-753-8447
Send an Email to Karen Messmer
Please note: Written correspondence to Councilmembers,
including email, is a public document.
Biographical Information
As a volunteer in Olympia for the past seventeen years, Karen served on most of the advisory committees that provide citizen input to the Olympia City Council. She worked with the community in numerous public processes, and conducted public hearings to listen to the concerns and ideas of hundreds of citizens. Her past volunteer service includes:
- Olympia Planning Commission - 11 Years (4-term Chairperson)
- Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee
- Urban Forestry Advisory Board
- Design Review Board
- Bicycle Advisory Committee
- Climate Solutions Local Transportation Program Board member
- Olympians for a Livable Community: Parks, Open Space, and Sidewalks steering committee member
Karen has been a resident of Olympia since 1986. At the Washington State University Energy Program she helps public agencies save tax dollars by reducing waste of energy, water, and other resources.
Karen also has experience in tourism promotion and economic development, shorelines planning and senior programs. She worked as a nature guide during college and still enjoys opportunities to share her understanding and the wonder of the environment.
Current Council/Intergovernmental Assignments
- Land Use and Environment Committee (Chair)
- Intercity Transit Authority Board
- Regional Transportation Policy Board
Priorities
- Implement the Parks, Open Space, and Sidewalk Plans that Olympia voters have funded, including the West Bay Park and Trail.
- Improve walkability by constructing sidewalks, pedestrian crossings and trails, and by educating the public.
- Recruit creative citizens to our advisory committees, and listen carefully to their advice.
- Promote energy and resource conversation within City Government and throughout the community.
Areas of Special Interest
- Community walkability, transportation alternatives, transportation safety. Open, inclusive and responsive government.
- Developing stable, long-term funding for basic governmental services.
- Investing in community quality of life enhancements.