LAKE STEVENS — The Lake Stevens City Council voted 6-0 on June 10 to appoint Kurt Hilt as the city’s new mayor during a special meeting.
“Together, we will work towards creating a vibrant, inclusive community prioritizing sustainable growth, public safety, stabilizing city finances, and enhancing services for all residents. I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated city staff and engaging with the community,” Hilt said in a statement.
Hilt, a 27-year veteran of South County Fire who currently serves as captain, will be sworn in at the City Council meeting on Tuesday, June 16. His term will expire once the November 2027 general election results are certified.
The appointment fills the vacancy created by the resignation of former Mayor Brett Gailey, effective April 13. Gailey, who had served as mayor since 2020, announced in March that he and his family were relocating to Idaho.
In May, the council selected four finalists from 10 applicants to interview for the position on June 10: former Councilman Kurt Hilt, Councilman Brian McManus, former Councilman Gary Petershagen and retired Everett Deputy Police Chief Jeraud Irving. The process followed state law that opened the role to any qualified resident.
Hilt previously served on the Lake Stevens City Council from 2015 to 2019. He was appointed last year to fill the seat left vacant by the death of Councilman Marcus Tageant.
City Administrator Gene Brazel said the city believes Hilt’s leadership will help continue significant progress toward building a brighter future for Lake Stevens.
Lake Stevens is a non-charter optional municipal code city operating under the mayor-council plan of government. The mayor is elected at large, while the council serves as the legislative body. A professional city administrator serves under the mayor.
Author: Mario Lotmore
