Jamie Jo Skeen — known to most as Jo — is a passionate community advocate, creative thinker, and natural connector who brings a fresh voice to local leadership.
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She has lived in a few different places, but nowhere has felt like home the way Burien does. This community inspires her every day — through the compassion, diversity, and resilience of the people who live here. Burien is full of welcoming, service-minded neighbors, and she feels incredibly lucky to be part of it. Now, as a proud member of this community, she’s ready to step up as a new voice and serve Burien with heart, vision, and dedication.
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Jo works at a local care facility supporting youth with autism and co-occurring mental health conditions. In this role, she collaborates with dedicated professionals who are committed to meaningful, hands-on service. Her daily experience has strengthened her belief in the power of teamwork, communication, and showing up for those who need support the most.
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While she may be new to politics in Washington, Jo is no stranger to public service — she previously served as a city council member, gaining valuable experience in local governance, collaborative leadership, and responsive representation.
 
She is also a published author, lifelong learner, and someone who values curiosity, growth, and open-minded conversation. Having gone through a major health crisis in recent years, Jo sees every day as a gift — and she approaches life and leadership with gratitude, empathy, and a sense of purpose.
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Outside of work, Jo finds her greatest joy in her family. She’s the proud mother of five adult children and “Nana” to an imaginative and spirited eight-year-old grandson on the autism spectrum, who constantly reminds her to see the world with curiosity and wonder. Her family is her motivation, her strength, and the reason she keeps showing up with purpose and heart every day.
 
Jo is not running to reinvent Burien — she’s here to help build on the good work already being done, listen to the people who make this city great, and bring thoughtful, inclusive ideas to the table. She believes in collaboration over conflict and in leading with heart, humor, and humility.
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Whether walking to work or chatting at a local event, Jo is always ready to connect. If you see her around town, don’t hesitate to say hello!
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A new voice. A grounded vision. A commitment to community.