Building communities and connections with George Newman of Kent’s Barghausen Consulting Engineers
August 25, 2023
Forty-four years ago, George Newman began his land development career in the region of King and Snohomish Counties. Today he’s known for his dedication and commitment to building stronger communities.
Originally from Illinois, he completed a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies at the University of Illinois-Springfield before moving to Pullman in 1976, where he earned his Master’s in Regional Planning (MRP) at Washington State University. Three years later, he took an opportunity as a senior planner with Snohomish County, launching his career in land use and community development.
In 2011, Newman joined Barghausen Consulting Engineers, a leading professional services firm specializing in land development and redevelopment projects. As senior project manager and senior land use consultant, he was involved in many projects ranging from single and multi-family residential to industrial to recreation developments.
A driving force in the building industry
Newman’s connection with BIAW and the Master Builders of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) dates back to the 90s during his time at Snohomish County. His role as land use manager placed him in regular meetings with MBAKS staff, working to identify permitting improvements and other processing and code amendment issues.
“That collaborative communication process was incredibly fulfilling because I saw where both Snohomish County government and private builders benefited from these industry changes,” Newman said.
In 2001, he became an active member of MBAKS when he transitioned to planning director for a land development consulting firm.
Over the past 22 years, Newman has been an active member of both MBAKS and BIAW, serving on the MBAKS board, as a Legislative Policy Committee (LPC) chair appointee, and as chair of MBAKS Snohomish County Builder’s Council. He also regularly participated in King County Builders Council meetings and the MBAKS Housing Policy Committee.
“It is very rewarding to see the tangible results from successful legislative and policy changes at both the local and state levels,” he said. “I cherish the relationships I’ve made with MBA and BIAW staff working diligently together, but always with a sense of humor to keep us going.”
Lasting legacy recognized
Newman was recently recognized for his years of dedication and commitment to the industry, winning MBAKS’ Associate Member of the Year Award as well as an Associate Appreciation Award from BIAW’s Associate Advisory Council.
MBAKS was proud to nominate Newman for these awards, referring to him as “always readily available and a valuable resource to the MBAKS Government Affairs team.”
Newman announced his retirement and relocation to the East Coast earlier this year. Still, his remarkable legacy in the industry and his impact on the communities he helped build will last for generations.
Learn more about Barghausen Consulting Engineers at barghausen.com.
* This article was originally published in the July/August 2023 issue of Building Insight magazine.