After nearly a year of service, North Whidbey Parks and Recreation District Chairman Cecil Pierce stepped down from the position last Thursday, citing medical reasons.
Pierce in May rear-ended a pickup truck which was stopped to make a left turn on State Route 104 in Port Ludlow.
Pierce, who was riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle at the time, was ejected from his bike and into the truck bed.
He was airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle and was in serious condition.
Because of the severity of his injuries, he has been unable to attend board meetings since the accident. At a regular board meeting Thursday evening, he said he anticipates at least another six months to a year of recovery, and will not have time to commit to the position.
“With the levy coming up, you need people involved. And I know you guys are going to get a great one,” he said.
Commissioner Donna Sue Holly, who has been serving as interim chairperson, was elected to permanently assume the position in place of Pierce.
“It’s been a pleasure being here. There’s a lot of stuff I’ve learned,” Pierce said. “I know there’s a lot of disagreements we’ve gotten into, but I think overall there is a lot of stuff we’ve worked out that has been really good.”
Pierce encouraged his fellow commissioners to stave off personal attacks, something that has at times been an issue during open discussions, and to continue in productive discussions with the goal of improving and strengthening the district.
“There is a major levy coming up. And I’m not saying that we kiss up, but the more we look like we’ve got our act together and are representing everybody, the better we are doing,” he said.
Each of the commissioners expressed their appreciation for Pierce’s service, and wished him well in his recovery.
“Thank you for everything that you have given,” Commissioner Wendy Shingleton said. “I’m sad that that’s the situation, but I understand it. And I have an immense amount of respect for you.”
“I think you and my dad have known each other for 15 years,” Commissioner Shane Hoffmire said. “He’s always told me you’re the most honest person, honest to a fault maybe. I’ve certainly learned that about you. And I respect your decision.”
Pierce had no previous political experience when he was elected to the board in 2015, but sought a seat as a means of serving his community. Pierce also volunteers for the VFW and works as an electronics technician.
The board is now seeking to fill the vacant Commissioner #2 position, and will be addressing this at a special meeting Sept. 8.
Those interested should email a letter of interest no later than 4 p.m. Sept. 1 to director@oakharborpool.com, or mail to Commissioner #2 Search, c/o NWPRD, 85 SE Jerome St., Oak Harbor, WA 98277.
