OLYMPIA — The Washington Economic Development Association has named Sen. Derek Kilmer a recipient of its annual LEADER Award for the third time.

The award recognizes Kilmer’s efforts to promote economic development during the 2009 legislative session. Kilmer, D-Gig Harbor, also received the award last year and previously received it while serving in the House of Representatives.

“Sen. Kilmer has been a leading advocate for economic development,” said Joe Tortorelli, WEDA’s immediate past board chairman. “His comprehensive knowledge of economic development leads him to be a champion in providing local governments the tools needed to achieve private investment and jobs. We truly appreciate his support.”

“As someone who came to the Legislature with a focus on growing our economy, I am grateful for this honor,” Kilmer said. “Workforce development issues, infrastructure issues and supporting our small businesses are all key priorities for me.”

Kilmer’s interest in economic development was shaped by having grown up in Port Angeles at a time when a decline in the timber industry was devastating local communities.

“I had neighbors lose jobs and I saw the impacts of economic decline firsthand,” Kilmer said. “Since then I have dedicated myself to helping employers grow jobs. That means families can put food on their tables. It means communities can be stronger. And it means there is less demand for social services.”

Kilmer, chairman of the Senate Higher Education and Workforce Development Committee, received the award in large part due to his authorship of Senate Bill 5045. The bill authorizes local governments to create “revitalization areas” and dedicate tax revenue generated by increased economic activity to pay for road improvements, sidewalks, utilities and other infrastructure. The new law also will provide as much as $1 million a year for 25 years for Pierce County projects and as much as $330,000 a year for 25 years for projects in Kitsap County.

WEDA also cited Kilmer’s work in successfully pushing House Bill 1323 to better coordinate the state’s workforce training and economic development activities. Kilmer sponsored the Senate version of the bill, which also was signed into law.

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For more information: Chris Mulick, Senate Democratic Communications 360-786-7535

For interviews: Sen. Derek Kilmer 360-786-7650