Ferguson Names Stemilt CEO to 26-Member Economic Council, Reviving First Panel Since 2006
Updated
Updated · NCWLIFE News · Jun 25
Ferguson Names Stemilt CEO to 26-Member Economic Council, Reviving First Panel Since 2006
3 articles · Updated · NCWLIFE News · Jun 25
Summary
West Mathison, president and CEO of Stemilt Growers, was named Thursday to Gov. Bob Ferguson’s new 26-member Economic Development Council in Washington.
Ferguson created the advisory body by executive order at a Seattle press conference to bring together business, education, tribal and labor leaders on state economic strategy.
Mathison leads Wenatchee-based Stemilt, one of the world’s largest non-citrus fruit operations, and previously served on the Seattle branch board of the Federal Reserve.
The council is Washington’s first gubernatorial economic development panel since 2006; other members include University of Washington President Robert Jones, Boeing’s Stephanie Pope and Amazon’s David Zapolsky.
Washington's economy is top-ranked, yet businesses may flee. Can a new council bridge this gap?
Amid new federal tariffs and permitting rules, how will Washington's economic council protect its core industries?
Washington’s Economic Crossroads: Inside the Governor’s Economic Development Council’s Strategy for Long-Term Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth
Overview
Washington State has launched the Governor’s Economic Development Council to address growing concerns about its long-term economic competitiveness. While the state is proud of its strong national rankings, Governor Ferguson warns that many challenges remain, including unemployment, unaffordability, and areas where Washington lags behind. Business leaders have raised alarms, especially after Starbucks expanded outside the state, and there is criticism over recent tax increases on large employers and high-income earners. The council brings together diverse leaders to advise on strategies that will boost job growth, make the state more affordable, and ensure Washington remains economically strong for all residents.