State Rep. Glenn Anderson, R-Fall City, announced today, Dec. 28, he will not seek re-election in to the legislature where he represents the 5th District which includes Maple Valley.

“It’s been an extraordinary gift and a privilege to be allowed to serve the citizens of our community. I’ve been extremely lucky that so many constituents, regardless of party affiliation, felt as though it was important to be engaged and have helped in many ways with all the issues I’ve been called on to deal with over the years,” Anderson said in a press release. “There is no substitute for participation when it comes to good government. The list of people who have sacrificed to be helpful to me, and their state, is very long.”

First elected in 2000, Anderson served as the leading Republican voice on Gov. Christine Gregoire’s Washington Learns 2006 Task Force and his “Fund Education First” budget reform proposal is considered to be an essential initiative to improving K-12 school funding.

When asked what his most significant contribution has been over his terms of service, Anderson said: “Helping my constituents get the services they deserve out of government. Listening to and assisting constituents has been my top priority. Their lives are busy and helping them sort out some bureaucratic boondoggle so they can move on with what is important to them has always come first. Constituent interaction and input have been invaluable to me.”

As a senior legislator Anderson ranks 13th in seniority out of 98 House members.

Anderson is considering what comes next.

“While this chapter of public service is closing, the book is still open. I’ve had a lot of encouragement to run for higher office from both Republicans and Democrats and I’m strongly considering that option.”

He will serve out the remainder of his term through the end of 2012.