Lacey Parks Events

Program Description

In 1973, Lacey was in its early years as a City and defining moments were taking place. Karen Fraser became the first woman City Council member, and three years later would become the first woman to serve as Mayor. This talk will explore her experiences navigating her roles through a young city, its changing form of government, the building of City Hall, and the formation of the Lacey Museum.

Speaker

Karen Fraser served as Lacey Mayor from January 1976 to November 1980. She was the first woman Mayor of Lacey and was also the first woman to serve on the Lacey City Council, beginning in 1973, four years after the City was incorporated. After serving as Mayor, she was elected Thurston County Commissioner—the second woman to serve in this role, serving two terms (8 years).  She was next elected to the Washington State House of Representatives, where she served two terms (4 years). Following this service, she was elected to the Washington State Senate for six terms (24 years). She is now retired, lives in unincorporated Thurston County, and remains very active in community affairs. She currently serves on the Board of Trustees of The Evergreen State College, appointed by the Governor.