PORT ANGELES — For the third time in his career, Clallam County’s Juvenile and Family Services Director Pete Peterson has been named administrator of the year by the Washington Association of Juvenile Court Administrators.
Peterson earned the distinction in 1992-1993, 1994-1995 and again in 2014-2015.
“Pete, being the modest guy that he is, didn’t let us know,” Commissioner Jim McEntire said of Peterson’s most recent honor.
Peterson was recognized for the achievement at the county commissioners meeting Tuesday.
“Individuals get awards, but it’s not about me,” Peterson said.
“My staff — I’ve been here 26 years — is the best in the state.”
Peterson oversees a staff of about 36 at the Clallam County Juvenile and Family Services facility in west Port Angeles.
The full-service center at 1912 W. 18th St. is the only juvenile facility in the state with a licensed crisis center for runaway youth and an in-house drug, alcohol and mental health treatment program.
The building, which includes a courtroom and 32-bed detention facility, opened in October 1994.
Peterson thanked commissioners past and present, superior court judges, the prosecuting attorney’s office and greater law enforcement community for supporting Clallam County Juvenile and Family Services.
He also thanked his employees and his wife of 41 years.
“We have, bar none, the most dedicated, well-trained, concerned employees in the state,” Peterson said.
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Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 5072, or at rollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com.
