The Suburban Cities Association (SCA) hosted a packed house of more than 100 guests, mostly elected officials, at its end of legislative session wrap up on April 18.

The evening’s events were capped off with a tribute to State Rep. Deb Eddy, D-Kirkland, who recently announced that she would not seek reelection in 2012.

“The cities of King County have always had a friend in Deb Eddy,” said SCA President Denis Law, the Mayor of Renton. He noted that prior to her election to the House in 2006, Eddy had previously served on the Kirkland City Council for six years, including two years as mayor, and was active in the Suburban Cities Association. “Deb has always recognized the value of intergovernmental cooperation, and the role that the Suburban Cities Association plays in bringing cities together to create regional solutions. Deb not only served on the board of SCA as a council member, she also served as SCA’s executive director.”

Joining Mayor Law in paying tribute to Eddy were her fellow state legislators. The panelists at the event included five democrats and five republicans, and all were quick to sing the praises of Eddy.

“Working with Deb over the past six years, I have been consistently impressed with her willingness to work across the aisle to get things done for her constituents,” said Rep. Jay Rodne, a Republican legislator representing the 5th Legislative District. “She brings a rare spirit of bipartisanship to the House, and she will be missed.”

Other members of the panel included Rep. Katrina Asay (R-30th), Rep. Judy Clibborn (D-41st), Sen. Joe Fain (R-47th), Sen. Andy Hill (R-45th), Rep. Ross Hunter (D-48th), Sen. Steve Litzow (R-41st), Rep. Larry Springer (D-45th), and Rep. Pat Sullivan (D-47th).

The panel discussion focused on the state budget and its impact on cities, and local transportation infrastructure needs. Seven of the 10 panelists were former city officials; five of the panelists (including Eddy) previously served on the board of SCA.