Former state representative Joyce McDonald became the newest member of the Pierce County Council today.

“I’m honored that the people of District 2 put their trust in me, and I hope I never disappoint them,” said McDonald, who was sworn in by Superior Court Judge Bryan Chushcoff this morning. “I am committed to making Pierce County a great place to live, work, and raise a family, and I can’t wait to get started.”

During the same ceremony, Councilmembers Dick Muri, Roger Bush and Timothy M. Farrell took oaths of office to begin their second four-year terms on the council.

McDonald’s district covers Browns Point-Dash Point, East Tacoma, Fife, Northeast Tacoma including the Tideflats, Puyallup, Summit View, and Summit-Waller. McDonald replaces Calvin Goings, whose second and final council term expired on Dec. 31.

Before being elected to the council in November, McDonald spent five terms in the state House of Representatives where she served as ranking member of the Capital Budget Committee and as a member of the Trade & Economic Development, Appropriations, and Juvenile Justice & Family Law committees. She was twice recognized by the Washington State Council of Police and Sheriffs as Legislator of the Year for providing increased school safety, tighter sex offender laws, and tougher drunk driving and meth-lab penalties.

Born and raised in Scotland, McDonald immigrated to the United States in 1973. She has served as PTA and Youth Center president, kids’ soccer and softball coach, and a foster parent and parent aid, and has been actively involved in her community as a member of Puyallup Main Street Association and the Puyallup-Sumner Chamber of Commerce.

She and her husband of 36 years Gary have four grown children and 10 grandchildren who all live in Pierce County.