Have you been meaning to meet Gael Tarleton, the 36th District's latest representative who lives right here in Ballard? Well, you'll get your chance this summer.

Tarleton is hosting three community get togethers around the 36th District to meet with her constituents. As a freshman this year, Tarleton hasn't been able to make huge decisions and has been getting a hang of the ropes, but she is gearing up to do more next legislative session.

One bill she did create and pass was HB 1647, which requires landlords to safely secure spare and master keys to rental units. Tarleton was inspired by the story of Dana Widrig, who was beaten and raped in her own apartment three years ago as a result of a maintenance worker getting ahold of the spare keys.

She has also signed on with Rep. Reuven Carlyle (D-Queen Anne) in the fight against coal, demanding a wider scoping process, and she has made funding higher ed -- something she has experience with -- one of her top priorities.

Here are a list of meeting times:

Tuesday, August 13: 9 – 10:30 AM
Ballard Coffee Works
2060 NW Market St, Ballard

Thursday, August 29: 12:30 – 2 PM
Olympic Sculpture Park
2901 Western Ave, Belltown

Sunday, September 15: 3 – 4:30 PM
Makeda Coffee
153 N 78th St, Greenwood

For more info, call (206) 216-3185 or e-mail gael.tarleton@leg.wa.gov

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