Staff Information

Click on name for additional information.

HEARING EXAMINER
Sue Tanner
The Hearing Examiner serves as the City's principal administrative law judge: an independent official charged with the responsibility of reviewing decisions made by a variety of City agencies. The Hearing Examiner regulates the conduct of hearings and prepares decisions and recommendations based upon the hearing record and applicable law. As the head of the department, Ms. Tanner is also responsible for appointment and supervision of staff, updating hearing rules and procedures, and overseeing any outside contracts for services. (The Hearing Examiner's functions, authority, appointment, and jurisdictions are described in the Citizen Guide, the Annual Report, and SMC 3.02.110)

DEPUTY HEARING EXAMINER
Anne Watanabe
Anne Watanabe has served as Deputy Hearing Examiner since 1995. Before coming to the office, Ms. Watanabe was a legal planner with the City of Bellevue, and prior to that time worked as a planner and policy analyst for state and local governments, and as an attorney in private practice.

Ms. Watanabe is a graduate of the University of Washington School of Law, and holds a Masters degree in Urban Planning from the University of Washington. She is a member of the Washington State Bar Association.

PARALEGAL
Alvia Williams
The Paralegal assists at hearings to ensure that the proceedings are properly recorded and exhibits are identified and secured. The Paralegal also assists the Hearing Examiner and the Deputy Hearing Examiner with cases both before and after the hearing. The Paralegal has primary responsibility for providing information to the public and to hearing Participants. And for verifying the accuracy and completeness of case records for transmittal to court on appeal.

STAFF ANALYST
Jenna Franklin
The Staff Analyst has responsibility for office administration, including research and analysis on variety of operational or administrative issues; project management; creation and oversight of the department's budget; human resource management, including recruiting, training, and career development; initiating and maintaining vendor relationships; accounting; and technology management.