Kirkland’s James Lopez Receives WCMA’s Outstanding Assistant Award

Published on August 15, 2022

Media Contact: 
David Wolbrecht
Communications Program Manager 
dwolbrecht@kirklandwa.gov
(425) 587-3021

The Washington City/County Management Association (WCMA) recently presented the Outstanding Assistant Award to James Lopez, City of Kirkland Deputy City Manager for External Affairs, at its annual conference this past week.

The Outstanding Assistant Award recognizes outstanding achievement and exemplary work by a local government professional who provides valued assistance to a chief local government administrator/manager. Recipients of this award have made significant contributions in leadership. 

“Mr. Lopez has demonstrated extraordinary leadership over the past year in enhancing community engagement and outreach and for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging,” said Kirkland City Manager Kurt Triplett.  “He has consistently turned high profile policy decisions into transparent, inclusive, and constructive public processes where both benefits and concerns are highlighted, ideas and interests are exchanged, and mutual understanding occurs. Jim is a talented, passionate, and dedicated public servant who works tirelessly to advance the goal of creating a welcoming community where everyone is heard and everyone belongs.”

As Deputy City Manager for External Affairs, Lopez is responsible for the administration of the City’s economic development, civic engagement, and communications programs.

Marilynne Beard, former Kirkland Deputy City Manager and past recipient of the award, presented Lopez with a plaque at the ceremony on August 11, 2022.

The WCMA is a non-profit organization that serves to connect governmental managers around an exchange of ideas and information. The organization presents awards annually.

For more information on the WCMA awards and professional recognitions, please visit WCMA.