Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescue names Becky McMillian as new commissioner

PLAIN —  Becky McMillian has been selected to fill the remaining vacant seat on the Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescue (LWFR) Board of Fire Commissioners.

McMillian will fill the vacancy created by former commissioner Mike Payne’s resignation, with a term extending through December 2027. She was officially appointed and sworn in during the July 16 commissioner meeting.

McMillian’s appointment is the second commissioner vacancy to be filled this month. On July 7, LWFR appointed Stuart McKee to fill a vacancy left by the resignation of former commissioner Mick Lamar. Six total candidates were publicly interviewed for both positions on July 7. McKee was selected for the immediate vacancy, allowing him to participate in the selection of Payne’s successor.

"We are incredibly pleased to welcome Becky to the board," said Commissioner McKee. "As responders, we share a practical understanding of what it takes to operate safely and effectively at an emergency scene. Blending that operational insight with Becky’s exceptional background in budget management and organizational transparency helps ensure that LWFR remains well positioned to maintain public trust while protecting our families."

McMillian has 39 years of professional leadership experience, managing teams in the medical device and pharmaceutical sectors. Her background includes fiscal and operational stewardship, including organizational planning and financial performance management to support sustainable, accountable growth, said LWFR. She has also served as a volunteer for the fire district since January 2024, with previous experience serving as a volunteer firefighter and EMT in her rural hometown. During her application process, McMillian highlighted nearly four decades of supporting her husband’s career in the United State Marine Corps, where he retired as a three-star general. During this time, she was actively involved in organizations that advocated for military families.

"My professional career has centered on building safe, compliant, and transparent processes while managing resources responsibly," said McMillian. "Applying these collaborative skills alongside my personal experience with LWFR allows me to advocate effectively for our hybrid model of paid staff and dedicated volunteers. I look forward to working openly with the community to ensure the continued safety, growth, and fiscal health of our district."