The Economic Development Commission will make recommendations to City Council by researching and studying topics related to economic development. In addition, the Commission will provide an annual report to the Council so as to ensure transparency.

In order to qualify for this appointment, individuals must possess subject matter expertise in at least one of the following economic development industry segments listed below. Membership on the Commission shall be limited to individuals who represent the industry segments listed here. Commission members shall serve three-year terms in accordance to Maple Valley Municipal Code Chapter 11.20.030

Economic Development Commission (EDC) positions per MVMC Chapter 11.20.020

  • Chamber of Commerce Representative
  • Commercial Real Estate Developer
  • Local Business Owner (two voting members)
  • Higher Education Institution
  • Workforce Development agency, small Business Development Center (SBDC), human resources, or staffing agency
  • Financial institution (bank or credit union)
  • Local School District representative
  • Public Utilities
  • Tourism attraction/event/event venue
  • City of Maple Valley resident

EDC Current Membership

  • Chamber of Commerce Representative – Gary Thompson, EDC Chair, Term Expiration 12/31/2024
  • Commercial Real Estate Developer – Michael Royse, EDC Vice Chair, Term Expiration-12/31/2026 
  • Local Business Owner – Derek Zahajko, Term Expiration 12/31/2024 
  • Local School District Representative – Tracy Krause, Term Expiration – 12/31/2026
  • Financial Institution (bank or credit union) – Vacant
  • Public Utilities – Steve Lee, Term Expiration 12/31/2026
  • Tourism attraction/event/event venue – Rich Kaalaas, Term Expiration -12/31/2025 
  • City of Maple Valley resident – Clayton Brenden, Term Expiration- 12/31/2026
  • Student Representative or Tahoma PTA member (Maple Valley Resident) – Derek Fitts, Term Expiration -12/31/2026

To contact members of the Economic Development Commission please contact Executive Assistant Kirstina Weaver at kirstina.weaver@maplevalleywa.gov or 425-413-8800.

The Economic Development Commission meets at 12:00 pm on the third Tuesday of each month at the City of Maple Valley – City Hall, Large Conference Room, 22017 SE Wax Road, Suite 200.  All meetings are open to the public. A link to virtual attendance is available on the City’s calendar

If you are interested in serving on the Economic Development Commission, please visit our Employment and Volunteer Opportunities page.