Rep. Bruce Chandler Honored

Rep. Bruce Chandler recently awarded the W. Fred Witham Memorial Award by the Yakima Association of Realtors, which is given to just one person each year.

Although the 15th District legislator was unable to attend the meeting to receive the award due to hazardous weather conditions, he said he was humbled to accept the honor.

“Realtors help make the American dream of home ownership a reality. The work they do is important to our economy and to the Yakima area,” said Chandler, R-Granger. “I was surprised to receive the award and was not expecting it. In Olympia, I work hard to focus on doing those things that help encourage opportunity and prosperity for hard-working families. I am honored to accept this award.”

The Yakima Association of Realtors awarded Chandler at their annual meeting Jan. 20 for “exceptional contributions to government affairs and community development.”

“Bruce has worked tirelessly for issues that matter to our realtors, including but not limited to water rights issues and fighting against excise and professional taxes,” said Chris Nass, government affairs chair for the Yakima Association of Realtors. “I nominated him because he’s interested in doing what’s best for economic development and has always listened to our concerns.”

The Witham Award is used to recognize people for significant contributions to private property issues in government. It is named for Fred Witham, a Yakima realtor long involved in government affairs.

It was awarded to Chandler for “fighting excess government and working to promote more rational regulation, economic development, community betterment and quality of life.”