Olympia City Council honors Parshley for her advocacy and service

At its Tuesday meeting, the Olympia City Council honored outgoing member Lisa Parshley with tributes and special gifts, celebrating her advocacy during her seven-year tenure.  

Mayor Dontae Payne signed a resolution appreciating Parshley "for her exceptional service, dedication, and enduring contributions to the City of Olympia." 

Parshley, who resigned to focus on her new role as a member of the Washington State House of Representatives, was praised by her fellow council members for demonstrating a steadfast commitment to fiscal responsibility, serving on the Finance Committee as its chair.  

Parshley was also praised for championing the environment, supporting reproductive health care – leading the city to be declared a sanctuary for reproductive rights.  

As an animal welfare advocate, Parshley served on the Joint Animal Services Commission and spearheaded a ban on the retail sale of cats and dogs in Olympia. She also actively supported suicide prevention initiatives and disability access to ensure equity in civil life.  

Parshley also has demonstrated her dedication to equity by establishing the city's Social Justice and Equity Commission.  

"You are one of the strongest advocates for the most innocent of us, which is animals. It speaks to your character and who you are as a person, that you advocate for those that can't advocate for themselves," said Payne, as he gifted Parshley a Mayor's Coin.  

Council member Clark Gilman highlighted Parshley's valuable contributions and steadfast leadership during her time on the City Council, especially during challenging periods, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside her.

"I am grateful for your steadiness, your compassionate heart, and your courage when we had to make difficult decisions along the way," Gilman said.

Mayor Pro Tem Yen Huynh expressed her personal appreciation for Parshley's thoughtfulness, understanding and the valuable conversations they had. 

"I'm a little bit joking, but also serious when I say, 'Don't forget where you came from. Secure the money,'" Huynh quipped.  

Councilman Jim Cooper said Parshley would remember for her work on the council.

"You've walked the city through a lot of crises and an adventure all at the same time, and you've definitely left your mark on our community. We look forward to what you do next," Cooper said.  

Councilman Robert Vanderpool expressed gratitude for the privilege of working with Parshley, appreciating her willingness to meet and chat about ideas, even when they were not on the same committees or working directly together. 

City Manager Jay Burney thanked Parshley for her support.

"What I'll remember the most is in the most difficult times in my career as city manager, you stood by me, you've supported me, you've encouraged me, and you've always treated me as a peer, not just as an employee," Burney said.

"You will be remembered by staff as always being kind, trusting us to do our work, supportive in good times and challenging times, and showing a level of care for all of us." 

Senator-elect Jessica Bateman and former Mayor Cheryl Selby also expressed appreciation and offered kind words about Parshley.  

Bateman expressed excitement about continuing to work with Parshley in the Legislature. She stated that the newly-elected representative’s principles and values are "spot on."

She added, "the people of Olympia have been lucky to have Parshley, and the 22nd Legislative District is fortunate to have her as their representative." 

Parshley acknowledged the challenges the council navigated during her six-year tenure, including a pandemic, budget issues and uncertain federal leadership. She expressed pride in the collective work of the council to come through these difficulties.  

She thanked her council colleagues, saying they have done "good work" together and survived the challenges to come out "a little bit better." Parshely emphasized her love for the Olympia community and chamber, stating she will always serve the community. 

The city staff presented gifts to the outgoing council member. Public Works Director Mark Russell presented a street name sign that read "Parshley Place." 

Parshley also received a plaque from the Olympia Fire Department Chief Matthew Morris to show the department's gratitude for consistent support of public safety.