Rep. David Taylor receives prestigious awards for protecting water rights and ensuring education equality
'Any award I get in the Legislature must be shared by the hardworking families I represent,' says Taylor
Rep. David Taylor, R-Moxee, has been recognized for his work in Olympia to encourage rural economic development, ensure education equality and to help protect private property rights.
The Association of Washington Cities, a nonprofit association representing cities and towns throughout the state, has chosen Taylor as one of this year's Legislative Champions.
The advocacy group specifically mentioned Taylor's work on the bipartisan solution to the so-called Hirst decision, which has severely affected private property rights, smaller municipalities and local governments.
“Rep. Taylor was instrumental in resolving the dispute over ensuring that there was enough water available for future growth in a way that protects the environment,” said AWC Government Relations Director Dave Williams. “We greatly appreciate his understanding of the unique challenges facing smaller cities in accessing water. His efforts will ensure that the compromise works for small communities.”
Taylor also received the 2018 Legislator of the Year award from the Association of Washington Business (AWB), the state's largest and oldest business organization.
In announcing their decision, AWB specifically mentioned Taylor's work in the Hirst negotiations as well as assisting in the McCleary education funding solution.
“Rep. David Taylor has successfully tackled challenging issues since he was elected nearly a decade ago. His work to reach bipartisan solutions to the Hirst and McCleary court rulings truly show his support for rural economic development, and his willingness to fight for rural regions of the state, whether that means equitable school funding or access to water,” said Gary Chandler, AWB vice president, government affairs. “We're honored to recognize legislative leaders like him – he sees a long-term vision for Washington state and recognizes that good policies at the state level are critical to extending economic opportunity to every resident in every small town, city and community across our state.”
Taylor, who has represented the Yakima area in the state House of Representatives since 2009, said he appreciated the recognition but said it was truly a team effort.
“The constituents I represent in Olympia are the ones who really deserve a lot of credit,” said Taylor. “They are involved; they are well-informed; and they are dedicated to making our region the best place in the state to live, work and raise a family. They consistently inform me of their priorities and principles and then I go to work on their behalf. Any award I get in the Legislature must be shared by the hardworking families I represent.”
In addition to his recent awards, Speaker of the House Frank Chopp appointed Taylor to the newly created Joint Legislative Task Force on Water Supply for his work on the Hirst solution.
“There will always be issues and concerns surrounding water,” said Taylor. “I'll be working to ensure our region is well represented at any discussion about water rights and water availability. Our rural way of life depends on a consistent, dependable and legal water supply.”
