By Brian Beckley

The Courier-Herald

State Representative Dan Roach (R-31st) of Bonney lake on Wednesday confirmed his intention to leave the state house at the end of his current term and seek a seat on the Pierce County Council.

A formal announcement is expected after the legislative session ends, which is scheduled for March 11, though it may be extended.

Roach, who has represented the region since 2001, said the decision came after talking with his wife and family and is tied in with Councilmember Shawn Bunney (R-Bonney Lake) reaching the limits of his term on the council and for whose seat Roach will run.

Roach and his wife, Olympic weight lifter Melanie Roach, have four children ranging in age from newborn to 8 years old and Roach said the position on the county council would be easier on his family and allow him to spend more time at home.

“The Pierce County Council is going to be much more family friendly,” he said.

Roach said he enjoys what he is doing and wants to continue representing his area and looks forward to the challenge of running for the seat as well as working with the County Council if elected.

“It’s a way to continue what I’m doing and be a little easier on the family,” Roach said. “I’m looking forward to a new challenge.”

Tacoma Firefighter Pat McElligott has also announced his candidacy for the council seat.

Bunney has announced his intention of running for Roach’s seat in the statehouse. Also throwing their hat into the ring for Roach’s House seat are Republican Cathy Dalquist of Enumclaw and Democrats Raymund Bunk and Ron Weigelt, both of Bonney Lake.

Democrat Chris Hurst (D-31) is also up for re-election this year.

Reach Brian Beckley at bbeckley@courierherald.com or 360-802-8009.