Monroe selects Patsy Cudaback as mayor

Patsy Cudaback secured the Monroe mayoralty, winning by nearly 20% over Heather Fulcher in the Nov. 4 election. Cudaback, a former City Councilmember and current COO of Snohomish County YMCA, succeeds Geoffrey Thomas, who has served as mayor for 12 years. Thomas endorsed Cudaback, encouraging her to seek the position. Fulcher, who runs the Monroe Coffee Co.

, campaigned vigorously, sending personal letters to thousands of voters, yet she will remain on the City Council since she was not up for re-election. Kevin Hanford won re-election against challenger Joscelyn Jones, while Brandi Blair will take over a vacated council seat. The election saw only about 36% of Monroe's registered voters participate, indicating a need for increased civic engagement. The results indicate a significant transition in local governance, with Cudaback's return marking a notable change in leadership. This election may set the stage for future policy directions in Monroe.