Peter Morton will make an excellent city councilman

October 21, 2017 1:30 am

Editor,

I am writing in support of Peter Morton for Langley City Council position 5.

Peter offers an unusual combination of smarts, character, experience, skill and civic motivation. He is an innovative problem solver. Perhaps as important during these polarizing times, Peter has committed to the working together themes of “civility, integrity and respect.” It is so vital to take care of the people while getting things done for the people.

While I am not a Langley resident, I hope the perspective of someone who knows Peter may be helpful to local readers.

I’ve known Peter Morton since I was 7 years old when he performed on the piano at our home. He has been a role model, mentor and friend to thousands of people and to me.

Peter and I collaborated on a number of projects when he was vice president, customer training for Boeing Commercial Airplane Group and again as vice president, center for leadership and learning for The Boeing Company. Peter is one of the most capable leaders who listens well, cares deeply, and gets things done while enjoying the journey!

As a servant/leader, I’ve seen Peter committed to one of the most successful management approaches I’ve experienced in my 33-year career, Working Together, developed by Alan Mulally and others during the 777 Program and, as CEO, used to turn-around Boeing Commercial after 9/11 and the Ford Motor Company after The Great Recession:

  • Create a compelling vision
  • Develop clear performance goals
  • Create one team with one plan
  • Everyone is included
  • Use “facts and data”, challenge assumptions the “data will set you free”
  • Transparency whenever possible; “we can’t manage a secret”
  • Propose a plan, find a way
  • Listen to each other and help each other
  • Emotional resilience
  • Have fun…enjoy the journey and each other

The Working Together approach, which is infused in the DNA of Peter Morton, will go a long way to making government and the process of coming together for the greater good work better for all Langley’s citizens.

Peter will make an excellent city council person.

Sincerely,

DAVID L. GALLIMORE

Federal Way