[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 87 (Tuesday, May 23, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E479]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       CONGRATULATING ROB GELDER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DEREK KILMER

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 23, 2023

  Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my sincerest 
congratulations and to wish a hearty farewell to one of my constituents 
and friends, Rob Gelder. Rob is leaving his post as Kitsap County 
Commissioner to work as assistant county manager for Thurston County.
  After receiving a degree in political science from the University of 
Rochester in 1988, Rob relocated to the Pacific Northwest in January of 
1990. Commissioner Gelder worked for Group Health Cooperative for over 
eight years, before joining Hopelink and then the Washington Health 
Foundation. With over a decade in senior leadership and executive 
management, he moved to Poulsbo to become part of the leadership team 
of Martha & Mary.
  Rob was first appointed to Kitsap County's Board of Commissioners in 
2011 and just celebrated 12 years of service to the residents of Kitsap 
County.
  Commissioner Gelder has been an active member of the Kitsap community 
and has been involved with the Poulsbo Historical Society, Jewelbox 
Theatre, Poulsbo Rotary Club, and Hospice of Kitsap County. Rob is also 
a member of the State Council on Aging as well as the board of the 
Washington State Association of Counties.
  He has been integral in creating a positive culture of collaboration 
between the various jurisdictions, elected officials, and staff for 
which our region has benefited.
  Some of the Commissioner's accomplishments over his time in office 
include making the Kingston Village Green community center a reality, 
partnering with Coffee Oasis to expand into the Kingston community, 
adding over 4,000 acres of public open space for community enjoyment, 
and partnering with the Suquamish Tribe to create the Port Madison 
Dialogues.
  Mr. Speaker, it is an honor today to recognize Rob's dedication and 
service to Kitsap County. He has been a great friend and partner to me. 
His leadership and commitment to the community have never wavered. He 
has made a tremendous difference in Kitsap County and throughout the 
state of Washington. His service to our community is greatly 
appreciated and will be long remembered. We wish him all the best on 
his next endeavor.

                          ____________________