Pacific Mayor Richard Hildreth was named an Innovator of the Year by Risk & Insurance Magazine. He is one of several public officials in the nation to receive the honor.

Hildreth, who serves on Gov. Christine Gregoire’s Emergency Management Council that represents state municipalities, was recognized for his work in drawing up emergency plans, listening to outside advice, but getting out of the way when disaster strikes.

“… Led by Richard Hildreth, Pacific has blazed a trail in both strategic and tactical planning, training and certification for all staff,” the magazine wrote.

“I have worked in government for more than 20 years,” said one Pacific municipal official, “and I have never seen a mayor make training such a priority for all of his managers and employees. He makes it a priority, and makes his staff available for it. There are no excuses, and he has shifted the focus of our work to make that possible.”

In January, Pacific suffered some flooding as a swollen river overspread its banks. It was not a major catastrophe but was certainly a test both for the mayor’s planning and for the mayor himself, the magazine wrote.

“The city responded very well,” said an emergency manager. “The mayor expected us to do our jobs, but he stayed out of the way.”

Hildreth was pleased with the response to the flooding, but noted that Pacific must be prepared for a worse flood. With review procedures in place, the lessons of the first flood are already being incorporated.