Ballard/Thompson Award

The Ballard/Thompson Award is named in honor of former Speaker of the House (R) Clyde Ballard and former Chief Clerk of the House, Representative, and Senator (D) Alan Thompson; both founding members of WashCOG. It is presented to a member or members of the state legislature who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to the cause of open government during the previous legislative session.

The award is presented annually, provided there is a recipient who meets the criteria set by WashCOG.

2023 – Former Rep. Emily Wicks and Rep. Gerry Pollet

Two state lawmakers are receiving the Clyde Ballard/Alan Thompson Award for their commitment to open government during the 2022 legislative session.

Former state Rep. Emily Wicks and state Rep. Gerry Pollet, a WashCOG board member, played central roles in the passage of House Bill 1329 in 2022. It significantly updated the state Open Public Meetings Act.

Among other things, the new law requires governing bodies to allow public comment at or before regular meetings at which final action is taken. It also requires governing bodies to enter the reasons for executive sessions in the meeting minutes.

The award was presented at the annual WashCOG Sunshine Breakfast on March 17, 2023.