Rowan Hinds, our 2016 Issaquah Hall of Fame inductee, embodies the best of leadership and dedication, as well as decades of public service to our community.
Serving as mayor from 1990-97, Hinds led our community during a pivotal era in its history, as Issaquah started a decade of growth from a small town into a small city. Before being elected as mayor, Hinds served on the City Council.
Under his leadership, Issaquah wisely prepared for the future and expanded the services it offered to residents and visitors, notably by opening the Issaquah Community Center.
When the state threatened to close the historic Issaquah Salmon Hatchery during his tenure as mayor, Hinds led the charge to protect the hatchery. He even came up with the name for the hatchery’s nonprofit partner: Friends of the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery, or FISH.
Following his service as mayor, Hinds continues to volunteer for many groups and organizations, including the City’s Traffic Task Force, Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank, Issaquah History Museums, Issaquah Nourishing Network and more.
Mayor Pro Tempore Stacy Goodman announced the honor May 10, 2016, at the Issaquah Community Awards.
Each spring, the mayor and City Council president select a person to induct into the Issaquah Hall of Fame for making a difference in the community.
The award is our community’s top honor. Selection is based on a nominee’s service, leadership, civic-mindedness and other qualities.