Long time Lewis County Engineer retires after 40 years of public service
Lewis County Commissioner Sean Swope, left, Tim Fife, Commissioner Lindsey Pollock and Commissioner Scott Brummer.
Geoff Soderquist, left, and County Engineer Tim Fife.
CHEHALIS – The design and construction of many of the roads and bridges in Lewis County passes the desk of County Engineer Tim Fife. Over the past decade, Fife has overseen dozens of projects with a keen eye on being fiscally responsible while also providing quality construction and maintenance on 1,042 miles of county roads. As the County Engineer, Fife performs oversight on drainage and diking districts as well.
Fife retires this week after approximately 40 years in public works in Grant, Franklin, and Lewis counties.
“Because of the cost of replacing a bridge or road, it’s better to maintain them. So, our focus has been on maintenance first,” Fife recollected from his years of service to Lewis County. “I had to get used to it flooding every other year – something I wasn’t used to when I arrived here. I’ve passed on a lot of experiences.”
Lewis County Public Works Director Josh Metcalf described Fife as a committed community servant, having brought a wealth of knowledge to the county, as well as being an advocate for the responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
“We wish you well and hope your retirement is blissful,” Lewis County Commissioner Sean Swope said in thanking Fife for his many years of service.
In naming Geoff Soderquist to succeed Fife, Metcalf said, “He brings a fresh outlook and will continue to be efficient and effective with the monies we have available.”
“Thank you for the opportunity, I do appreciate it,” Soderquist said to the county commissioners.
“I’m excited to have you fill some big shoes,” Commissioner Scott Brummer told Soderquist. “You’ve been doing a great job, and your ability to work with folks on multiple levels is appreciated.”
“It’s always good to start from a good spot that has been put together and continue to build on it. Congratulations to both of you,” Commissioner Lindsey Pollock said to Soderquist and Fife.
Travel, spending time with grand kids, and continued restoration of his ‘67 Chevelle Malibu are in Fife’s retirement plans.