I am delighted and grateful to be back at City Hall.

First and foremost, I would like to thank the first responders — from the communications specialist who answered our 911 call, to the police and fire personnel who arrived at my home — on the night of April 10 after I suffered a heart attack.

The service our police and fire personnel provide to Issaquah each and every day truly saves lives — including mine. To those first responders: I am forever grateful for your expertise and skilled response.

We are fortunate to live in a place with the world’s highest survival rate for cardiac arrest. King County sets the gold standard for emergency medical care — from the first 911 call to the day when a patient leaves the hospital.

I’d also like to thank the community for your overwhelming support, well wishes and encouragement. I am very grateful that I have had some quiet time, and privacy, for my recovery. I am humbled by your response.

A special note of thanks to our friends and neighbors who personally reached out to Rosemarie and me, and provided emotional and tangible support on a daily basis. We could not have done it without your help.

Finally, I would like to thank City Council President Stacy Goodman, who served as mayor pro tempore, as well as my staff, who ensured city business continued during my absence.

Thank you.

Fred Butler

Issaquah mayor