SNOHOMISH COUNTY—County Executive Dave Somers has selected a new Executive Director for Economic Development. Mike Fong will take over the role starting January 6, 2025.
Fong has worked at the local, state, and national level on initiatives to support businesses and invigorate the workforce. He most recently served as Director for the Washington State Department of Commerce, where he oversaw an $8 billion biennial budget and nearly 800 employees. In his time at the agency, his team launched programs to support the sustainability and growth of small businesses, strengthened relations with tribal governments by streamlining contracting, and presided over record-level investments in affordable housing and clean energy programs.
“I want to express my gratitude to Mike for his leadership and service over the past 20 months,” Governor Jay Inslee said. “The Department of Commerce has a tremendous impact on our state and I am proud of the work Mike has led to strengthen our communities.”
“Mike Fong has the rare ability to combine compassion and strong leadership in everything he does, and he genuinely strives to help individuals, families, and communities thrive,” Executive Dave Somers said. “Snohomish County has many opportunities for economic development, and I think Mike is the right person to help us seize those opportunities. We’re looking ahead to a future that elevates our heartbeat industries like aerospace and agriculture while innovating in areas like technology and sustainable energy. I’m excited to have him back for our next chapter.”
This will be Fong’s second stint with Snohomish County, having previously served as the County’s Chief Recovery and Resilience Officer to help coordinate $160 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The following January, he was appointed by President Biden as the Regional Administrator for the Small Business Administration. Fong said he’s grateful for the chance to rejoin the team in Snohomish County in 2025.
“This region has such an incredibly diverse, dynamic, and resilient economy, and that presents unique opportunities to support innovation, create jobs, grow existing businesses, and launch new startups,” Fong said. “Executive Somers understands that a thriving economy is built on a foundation of strong and vibrant communities. His leadership in championing a holistic approach to economic development is what makes Snohomish County attractive and open for business, and I am eager to get started on this important work.”
In addition to serving as the Pacific Northwest Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration, his extensive career in the public sector also includes serving as the deputy mayor for the City of Seattle and as the Chief Operating Officer for King County.
Fong has been recognized with the International Examiner’s Community Voice Award for excellence in civic leadership and volunteers in his community. Originally from Spokane, he received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Washington and speaks Cantonese fluently.
Fong will replace Executive Director Neepaporn “A” Boungjaktha, whose last day with Snohomish County is Jan. 2. Boungjaktha will be joining the Port of Seattle as the new managing director of the Port’s Economic Development Division.
SOURCE: Snohomish County Government
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
