Chambers, Partners Convene Legislators for 2025 Wrap-Up Event
On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, the Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce, North Mason Chamber of Commerce, and the Economic Development Council (EDC) of Mason County hosted a Legislative Wrap-Up featuring the 35th Legislative District Delegation. The delegation included State Senator Drew MacEwen (R-Union), State Representative Dan Griffey (R-Allyn), and State Representative Travis Couture (R-Allyn).
Senator Drew MacEwen and Representatives Dan Griffey and Travis Couture reflected on changes at the state level following the election of Governor Ferguson. The delegation pointed out a more consistent working relationship between the executive branch and the legislature, with regular meetings and open communication channels now in place. While policy differences persist, the tone has shifted toward more collaborative governance.
The delegation discussed Washington’s budget deficit, which lawmakers described as both significant and unexpected. Representative Couture shared that state agencies are now meeting weekly with legislative leaders to address the shortfall. He, along with his colleagues, raised concerns about the sustainability of recent spending levels and the effect of new taxes on economic growth. Increases to the gas tax, sales tax, and public access fees were all highlighted as areas where small businesses and working families may feel the most impact.
Despite these challenges, the capital budget included targeted investments for the 35th District that support long-term economic development. Among the highlights was funding to expand and modernize Shelton’s Youth Community Center. The project aims to enhance local services while creating construction and maintenance opportunities. In North Mason, a new electrical substation and planned improvements to water infrastructure are expected to unlock housing development, improve capacity for commercial growth, and support operations at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
Transportation remains a top concern, particularly for rural communities. Senator MacEwen spoke about the urgent need for continued progress on the Belfair bypass, calling it essential for both mobility and regional economic competitiveness. He emphasized that delays in major infrastructure projects create ripple effects for local employers and future investment.
The conversation also touched on long-term fiscal policies. Lawmakers cautioned against overly optimistic revenue assumptions in the state budget, particularly when it comes to pension obligations. They called for more prudent planning to avoid future disruptions to essential services and capital investments.
The Chamber thanks our legislators for engaging in this important dialogue and for recognizing the unique needs of our business community. We also appreciate the partnership of the Economic Development Council of Mason County and North Mason Chamber in helping bring this conversation forward. The program was made possible thanks to sponsors Our Community Credit Union and Peninsula Credit Union.
Contact and Information About the Legislators
Senator Drew MacEwen
(R-Union)
(360) 786-7668
drew.macewen@leg.wa.gov
Senator Drew MacEwen, R-Shelton, has served the 35th District since 2012, spending a decade in the House before transitioning to the Senate in 2023. As the ranking Republican on the Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee, he also serves on the Transportation, Business and Financial Services, and Labor and Commerce Committees. A U.S. Navy veteran, MacEwen completed five submarine patrols aboard the USS Nevada and developed a strong connection to the district while stationed at Naval Base Kitsap. Following his military service, he settled in Mason County, where he founded Falcon Financial, Inc., and became managing partner at Mountain Lakes Capital Management LLC. His business ventures extend to local investments, including The Dock in Port Orchard and 1889 Prime Steakhouse in Olympia.
MacEwen has long been active in the community, serving as a former president of the Shelton-Mason Chamber of Commerce and participating in organizations such as the Rotary Club of Shelton, Mason General Hospital Foundation, and St. David’s Parish. He is committed to key legislative priorities, including public safety, education reform, economic growth, tax relief, and government accountability, earning recognition from the National Federation of Independent Business and the Association of Washington Business. A graduate of Excelsior College and the Navy’s Nuclear Propulsion Program, MacEwen lives in Shelton with his wife, Danelle. They have two grown children, both serving as Marines, and are proud grandparents of four.
Representative Dan Griffey
(R-Belfair)
(360) 786-7996
dan.griffey@leg.wa.gov
Representative Dan Griffey took office in 2015 and is currently serving his fifth term. He serves as the House Republican Whip, responsible for maintaining decorum during caucus meetings and ensuring proceedings run smoothly. Representative Griffey is the Assistant Ranking Minority Member for the Community Safety, Justice, and Reentry Committee, where he advocates for sexual assault and domestic violence survivors and works to improve public safety. He also serves on the Local Government and Transportation Committees.
Dan’s public service began at 16 as a volunteer firefighter, becoming one of Washington’s youngest EMTs. He worked as a professional firefighter with Central Mason Fire & EMS for 30 years, retiring as a lieutenant in June 2022.
Dan and his wife, Dinah, have four children and five grandchildren, and they continue to call Allyn home.
Representative Travis Couture
(R-Allyn)
(360) 786-7902 travis.couture@leg.wa.gov
Representative Travis Couture serves Washington’s 35th Legislative District. First elected in 2022, he is currently serving his second term in the House of Representatives. Couture holds the position of Assistant Minority Floor Leader and serves as the Assistant Ranking Minority Member on both the House Appropriations Committee and the Human Services, Youth, & Early Learning Committee. Additionally, he is a member of the Education Committee.
Couture is an honored U.S. Navy Veteran serving on the USS Alabama and USS Nebraska. He earned an MBA and BA in Organizational Leadership from Brandman University. He has volunteered with local organizations including United Way, Kiwanis, Habitat for Humanity, and North Mason Schools and he is a supporter of Turning Pointe Survivor Advocacy Center and Care Net. Couture lives in Allyn with his family and is a trusted leader, active in local politics.