Chelan city clerks honored with state awards

CHELAN — Two members of Chelan’s city clerk team were recognized at the state level for their work in municipal government, with Mayor Erin McCardle highlighting their achievements during the March 24 city council meeting.

City Clerk Peri Gallucci was recently named president of the Washington Municipal Clerks Association, a statewide organization focused on professional development and standards for local government clerks.

Deputy City Clerk Cailey Couch received the association’s Trailblazer Award for 2026, recognizing innovation and impact in the field over the past year.

McCardle presented the award to Couch during the meeting and praised both clerks for their contributions to the city and to the profession.

“This is a huge deal,” McCardle said, noting that Chelan’s clerk’s office was prominently represented at the association’s recent conference.

Gallucci, who will serve as president of the organization, helped develop and present a budget that was approved by the association and delivered a keynote address outlining her theme for the year, “Kindness inspires.”

McCardle said the speech stood out as a reflection of the leadership coming from Chelan’s staff.

“I personally think you should publish that speech,” she said. “It was an incredible speech.”

Couch’s Trailblazer Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the municipal clerk profession through innovation or measurable impact. The nomination highlighted her work over the past year and her role in advancing the city’s administrative functions.

City clerks serve as the official record keepers for local governments, responsible for maintaining public records, documenting council actions, managing elections and ensuring transparency in how decisions are made and preserved.

City officials said the recognition reflects the depth of experience within Chelan’s staff, particularly in roles that often operate behind the scenes but are critical to the function of local government.

“These are the folks who keep the city running,” McCardle said.

The recognition drew applause from councilmembers and attendees, with several noting the importance of strong administrative leadership as the city continues to manage growth, infrastructure projects and seasonal demands.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media