ABOUT

Russell Joe - A History of Community Service

I will be ready to serve on day one because . . . ​

• I have twenty years of experience as a non-profit board volunteer and executive staff member. I currently have the pleasure of serving on the Board of Directors for The Garage, a Teen Café; a member of the Issaquah Rotary Club, and a member of the Issaquah Eagles Club.  My volunteer work aligns with my interest in developing young leaders, and future leaders in the non-profit sector. Past non-profit work spanning eighteen years includes ten years on the Board for the Chinese Information and Service Center, one Fall Giving Campaign with United Way of King County as a Loaned Executive, and serving as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Japanese Cultural & Community Center of Washington. ​
  
• I am a proven private sector leader with experience in the area of government affairs and municipal relations in King and Snohomish counties. In my current position with Master Builders of King and Snohomish Counties, I have the opportunity to work on housing issues issues with elected officials from Everett, Marysville, Arlington, Lake Stevens, Snohomish and Mill Creek.  In addition, our conversations often address other topics ranging from public safety to transportation.  I will bring this wide knowledge of local government affairs, coupled with the long term relationships with leaders in our neighboring communities, to help address critical issues impacting Issaquah. 
  

Russell Joe

• I am a former prosecutor, Pro Tem Judge and local attorney.  I bring a balanced and rational approach to decision-making in this non-partisan position. Serving over 12 years as a municipal prosecutor, I followed this experience by serving as a Pro Tem Judge for the Issaquah Municipal Court.  With legal training and experience as a judge, I am able to carefully listen to all of the information and review all of the material before making a rational and balanced decision based on facts.  This experience helps me remain a strong independent voice on the issues.​
• Finally, I am a seasoned member of the city council with over twelve years of city government experience. After serving on the Issaquah Planning Policy Commission, I had the honor of being elected as a member of the Issaquah city Council for eight years from 2000-2007 and 2021 to present.  During those three terms in office, I studied, analyzed, and helped guide the policy and vision for our city.  I would like to continue to bring this history, experience and knowledge to the council.  I understand there is still so much to learn and I am excited to have an opportunity to continue to serve Issaquah.