Community Government

Billy Sehmel sworn in, following dad’s PenMet footsteps

Continuing a family legacy, Billy Sehmel was sworn in as a PenMet Parks commissioner Tuesday night. Administering the oath of office was his father, Bill Sehmel Sr., who served on the park board from its founding in 2004 until 2015.

“I think it’s very fitting in the 20th anniversary year of PenMet Parks to have a second generation of Sehmels on the board after all the work you put in,” President Steve Nixon told Bill Sr. during a board meeting at the Arletta Schoolhouse. “I’m just excited to see Billy participate and carry PenMet forward.”

New commissioner Billy Sehmel with wife Lana, kids Isla Sue, 20 months, and William Stephen, 6 months, and father Bill Sr. Photo by Ed Friedrich

“Not as excited as me,” responded the senior Sehmel.

Billy garnered 56% of the vote in the Nov. 7 general election. He replaces Amanda Babich, who chose not to run for her seat.

Park and family history

Billy Sehmel, 40, is among a fifth generation of Gig Harbor pioneers and grew up on homesteaded Rosedale property that is now PenMet’s 98-acre jewel — Sehmel Homestead Park.

Pierce County Parks and Recreation purchased the land in 2002 and transferred it to PenMet after its formation in 2004. Bill Sr., 73, was instrumental in developing it into a park and helped guide the district through its infancy. Now his son will serve during its maturing years.

“I look forward to growing PenMet Parks and taking it into its early 20s and beyond,” he said. “I hope we’ll be able to finish projects the community wants, like the development of prior properties.”

Sehmel said he grew up watching his dad work to establish the park district. “I look forward to continuing our family history in serving the community.”

“I’m sure he’ll do a lot better than I did,” Bill Sr. joked. I sure hope so. I’m very proud.”

Bill Sehmel Sr. swears in son Billy as parks commissioner. Photo by Ed Friedrich

Immediately after the swearing in, Nixon handed the presidency for 2024 over to Missy Hill.

“I want to welcome and congratulate Billy Sehmel,” she said. “His commitment is so impressive. He came to many meetings, supported PenMet Parks. I think our community is fortunate to have an invested, committed commissioner.”

Nixon thanked for presiding

Executive Director Ally Bujacich thanked Nixon for his efforts, reeling off a list of park district accomplishments during his 21-month tenure that “resulted in significant positive impact to the community.” Hill also offered appreciation.

“I’d like to thank former President Nixon for all his hard work,” she said. “This is quite a job. Thank you for taking such good care of us during the past year.”

Bujacich introduced three new senior employees — Director of Finance Jessica Wigle, Special Projects Manager Barry Shields and Grounds Supervisor Adam Love.

Bill Sehmel Sr. (fourth from left) with board members Missy Hill, Kurt Grimmer, Billy Sehmel, Laurel Kingsbury and Steve Nixon. Photo by Ed Friedrich

Potential Art League partnership

Director of Development Tracy Stirrett briefed the board about a potential partnership with the Peninsula Art League. During a first reading, the board authorized Bujacich to sign a memorandum of understanding with the artists group. It defines the terms under which the parties would collaborate to benefit the public and the responsibilities of each party.

For example, PAL would conduct programs, meetings and trainings at PenMet Parks facilities and properties, including holding the 2024 Summer Arts Festival at Sehmel Homestead Park instead of the usual Judson Street site in downtown Gig Harbor. PAL would install, curate and manage public artwork at PenMet facilities and parks, including the community recreation center and Sehmel Homestead Park. The art would be available for public purchase.