Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 13, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Dear resigns with thanks, relief and appreciation

OLYMPIA - Joe Dear, chief of staff to Gov. Gary Locke, today submitted his resignation following four years of service.

Dear said the resignation came with a deep sense of "thanks, relief and appreciation."

Locke hailed Dear as one of the state's most creative and effective chiefs of staff.

"Joe Dear worked long hours to keep state government working smoothly," Locke said. "He was the consummate manager, insisting that agencies set goals that reflected the state's priorities, and working closely with directors to ensure they met deadlines and evaluated results objectively."

"Joe also brought a wonderful sense of humor and good sense to his job and to this office," Locke added.

Dear said the sense of thanks in his resignation was for the privilege and honor he felt for serving in Locke's first administration.

He said the sense of relief was based on the fact that the position was "subject to incessant, unplanned and frequently intense interruptions."

"I would not trade the experience I've had for a minute, but I do look forward to directing my professional attention across a somewhat narrower range of issues and a return to assignments with more operational responsibility," Dear wrote.

Dear praised Locke for the "extraordinary qualities of leadership and integrity you bring to the job of being Governor."

"I have watched you work on the incredible array of challenges that come to a governor with a grace, discipline and intellect that are exceptional," Dear wrote.

Gary Moore, director of the Department of Labor and Industries, commented, "Joe Dear led by setting the highest standards for himself. His unswerving commitment to public service, improving the performance of state government and obtaining results for citizens is unparalleled. He is a good friend and mentor. I will miss him and his uncommon good judgment."

Mary Selecky, director of the Department of Health, said, "Joe Dear has brought a business-like attitude to state government. He's played an important part in helping agencies like mine become more professional and do a better job. Because of his work, we have all become better at serving our customers, the people of our state. Joe has made a difference, and he will be missed."

Dear's resignation is effective Jan. 9.

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