• Executive Interview with Will Ibershof

    Posted by Abby Barahona on March 6, 2026

    What initially prompted you to get involved with local government? In 2001, my neighbors dared me to run for the Duvall, Washington City Council. At the time, they felt there was a “good-old-boys network” in city management, and residents needed someone who would be open and transparent. I signed up, and my opponent told me I would never win and that I should simply give up. Though I was new to campaigning, I reached out to other elected officials who helped me build a matrix on how to win. I went on to win 69% of the vote. My commitment to the residents continued long after the election. In 2003, when the city proposed a 40% increase in sewer rates, I challenged the status quo and asked, “What are our other options?” When told our only hope was a near-impossible state grant, I took the initiative to find a lobbyist and follow his road map. As a result, Duvall secured a $4 million grant for a $10 million project, saving our residents from a massive rate hike. That was the moment I was hooked on public service. Why did you want to become a city manager? After my third term as Mayor ended in Duvall, I missed working in local government. When an opportunity opened in Sultan, a small city in Snohomish County, I jumped at it. I love working in communities where you can truly connect with residents and collaborate to make a difference. For instance, watching a Little … Read more »

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