06/10/2026
Commissioner Cory Wright today announced his resignation from the Kittitas County Board of Commissioners to accept the position of Executive Director of the Kittitas County Economic Development Partnership (KCEDP), a new countywide organization dedicated to strengthening economic opportunity and prosperity throughout Kittitas County. Wright's resignation will become effective on July 31, concluding more than eight years of service on the Board of County Commissioners and continuing a family tradition of public service in Kittitas County that spans more than 150 years.
"Serving as a Kittitas County Commissioner has been the greatest professional honor of my life," Wright said. "The people of this county placed their trust in me, and I have worked every day to earn that trust. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve the communities, businesses, and residents that make Kittitas County such a special place."
For Wright, public service is both a privilege and a responsibility passed down through generations.
"My family's roots in Kittitas County stretch back to 1871. Generation after generation has worked to build this community, support neighbors, and leave this place better than they found it. Public service has never been about a title or a position – it has been about stewardship and giving back to the community that has given us so much."
That legacy includes several generations of civic leadership. Wright's great-great-grandfather, John Davidson, served as one of Kittitas County's early Superior Court judges and constructed the historic Davidson Building, a landmark that remains part of downtown Ellensburg today. His great-grandfather, F.A. Kern, served as Kittitas County Prosecutor and was a driving force behind the creation of the Kittitas Reclamation District, helping establish the water infrastructure that continues to support agriculture and economic opportunity throughout the county. His grandfather, Phil Kern, served for many years as a commissioner of the former Port of Kittitas County, helping guide economic development efforts and industrial investment throughout the region.
As Executive Director, Wright will lead implementation of the Countywide Economic Development Strategic Plan and coordinate economic development efforts among local governments, businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations throughout Kittitas County.
Wright said the decision was difficult but ultimately came down to where he believes he can have the greatest impact on the future of the county.
"This is not a step away from public service – it is a continuation of it," Wright said. "Economic development touches nearly every issue facing our county and its cities. Whether it's family-wage jobs, housing affordability, infrastructure, downtown revitalization, workforce development, broadband, childcare, or supporting local businesses, economic opportunity is at the center of a thriving community."
Since first being elected in 2018, Wright has worked on issues including transportation infrastructure, broadband expansion, water resources, public safety, economic development, housing, recreation, and regional partnerships. He has also represented Kittitas County on numerous state and regional boards and commissions, advocating for investments and policies that strengthen the county's long-term future.
"Kittitas County is at a generational crossroads," Wright said. "We have tremendous assets, strong communities, world-class natural resources, a major university, entrepreneurial businesses, and a strategic location. The opportunity before us is to build an economy that allows future generations to live, work, raise families, and pursue their dreams right here at home."
Wright emphasized that his decision is not motivated by political ambition, but by a desire to focus full-time on the county's economic future.
"I am not leaving this position to seek higher office or pursue another political opportunity. I am accepting this role because I believe deeply in the future of Kittitas County and because I believe this work matters. Helping communities grow stronger, creating opportunities for residents, and improving quality of life is a mission worth dedicating myself to."
Wright thanked his fellow commissioners, county employees, city and town officials, community partners, and residents for their support throughout his tenure.
"No elected leader accomplishes anything alone. Every success belongs to the many people who volunteer, serve, manage organizations, run businesses, teach students, protect public safety, maintain our roads, care for neighbors, and invest in our communities every day. I am thankful for the friendships, partnerships, and experiences that have shaped my time in office."
Looking ahead, Wright said the opportunity to lead KCEDP represents a continuation of both his commitment to public service and his family's long tradition of contributing to the community.
"The future of Kittitas County will not be defined by what we inherit, but by what we build together. Every generation faces the responsibility of leaving Kittitas County stronger than they found it, and that responsibility now passes to us. Through partnership, innovation, and a commitment to opportunity, we can create a county where our children and grandchildren choose to stay, build careers, raise families, and pursue their dreams. I believe our best days are ahead of us, and I am excited to continue working every day to help build that future."
The process for filling the commissioner vacancy will proceed in accordance with Washington state law.
