Berrett named new Whitcom director

COLFAX – Wendy Berrett, the operations manager at Whitcom, was chosen June 25 as the new executive director of the regional emergency dispatch agency.

Berrett has been with the agency for more than 20 years.

“We are delighted that Wendy has chosen to continue her career at Whitcom in this senior leadership position,” said Dean Kinzer, county commissioner and Whitcom executive board chair. “Having served in several roles at Whitcom, including deputy director, she brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and stability to the agency, and we look forward to her thoughtful leadership.”

Berrett began as executive director July 1.

“This is a very exciting time for Whitcom as we embark on our first comprehensive strategic planning process, and I am honored to lead us in that effort,” Berrett said. “As a long-term employee of Whitcom, I fully understand our challenges, and I look forward to working with all our partner agencies and the dedicated Whitcom staff as we move forward.”

Berrett earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Idaho, holds several certifications related to the emergency communications industry, and is active on E-911 committees in both Washington and Idaho.

She assumes the position held by Tara Murker, who left Whitcom earlier this year, and Captain Roger Lanier, who has served as executive director on an interim basis.