Kunzler receives Key Award for access activism

Joe Kunzler with Sedro-Woolley Mayor JoEllen Kesti on June 12 after he was presented the Key Award by the Washington Coalition for Open Government at the Central Skagit Library in Sedro-Woolley. Kunzler received the award for his work advocating for open government.

Joe Kunzler of Sedro-Woolley was presented with a Key Award by the Washington Coalition for Open Government on June 12, 2026 to honor his work advocating for government transparency and access.

Kunzler has sat in on WashCOG’s board meetings for years, offering insights and sharing information. He helped the coalition track legislation that would affect open government and shared information when he heard something noteworthy. He also writes a regular “Advocate’s Corner” newsletter on the Beehiv platform to boost awareness of transparency issues. 

He is not shy about using his rights as a voter and taxpayer to raise questions and hold our government accountable, and open government is an issue he holds in high regard. Kunzler understands that the people have a right to know what their government is doing in their name. Without transparency, there is no hope for accountability and no hope for healthy governance. 

Robert McClure, who is chair of WashCOG’s Government Committee, noted that Kunzler has been a strong advocate.

“I listen carefully to what Joe has to say on every issue because I know he is committed and has thought through his positions,” McClure said. “He is also willing to engage in dialogue and, as all of us in the public sphere should, is willing to alter his position when additional facts and data come to the fore. I am proud to count Joe as a collaborator in promoting democracy in our state through a transparent state and local government. His passion and dedication are an inspiration to all. “

WashCOG President Mike Fancher said he’s been impressed with how Kunzler has focused his passion into clear messaging.

“In the most recent legislative session, he not only tracked dozens of bills but commented on them so that his (Advocate’s Corner) readers knew what mattered most and why. His calls to action were extremely helpful to WashCOG and the people’s right to know,” Fancher said.

After he was presented the award, Kunzler said he was honored to be acknowledged.

He has concerns about access to public meetings and records, noting that the situation is more dire as traditional journalism declines along with its position as “spokespeople for the people.” That means it’s more important for citizens to pay attention and take action, he said. 

“Guys like me … we are now the media. We have legitimate work to do here tracking legislation and trying to figure out what’s going on,” Kunzler said.

WashCOG gives Key Awards intermittently throughout each year to recognize actions of individuals who advance the cause of open government in accordance with the coalition’s mission. The coalition accepts nominations for Key Awards; writable PDF forms can be found on the Awards page.