MARYSVILLE For the last 30 years Marysville city government has benefited from the efforts of one woman. It is the kind of organizational memory that many companies would give a lot for. And this woman has seen the city through the eyes of a part-time clerk helping residents all the way to being the lead non-elected executive.
Mary Swenson, Marysville Chief Administrative Officer, received the Paul Harris Fellow award presented by the Marysville Rotary Club on Wednesday, Sept. 12. Swenson was nominated by former Marysville Police Chief Bob Carden and current Marysville Mayor Dennis Kendall.
Swenson began her service with the city of Marysville as a part-time clerk in 1977. Since that time, she has advanced through a number of different positions, including City Clerk in 1992, to her current position in 2001. Swenson celebrated her 30th anniversary/year of service to the citizens of Marysville in September 2007.
Since her appointment to CAO, Swenson has focused on building better relationships with the business community. She provides oversight to the citys Economic Development Committees, a crucial piece for establishing the vision for further economic growth in Marysville.
Swenson additionally has served as president of the WCIA Board of Directors, is an active member of the Washington State City Managers Association, Snohomish County Advisory Group, and is a prominent figure on the Snohomish County Tomorrow Committee.
In addition to her city duties, Swenson is a regular helper at the Rotary Pumpkin Patch, and consistently fills one to two tables at the Rotary clubs annual auction, a major driver for local community contributions.
Former Police Chief Bob Carden, who worked under Swensons direction, said about Swenson, I have never, in 33 years of community service, enjoyed a working relationship more. She is the ultimate professional with outstanding management abilities, and her dedication to the citizens of our community is exemplary.
The Paul Harris Fellowship is awarded by local Rotary clubs to community members Rotarians or non-Rotarians who demonstrate exemplary community service.