Spokane County Commissioner | District 5

Commissioner Al French was a Sargeant in United States Marine Corps and served from 1969-1972.  During his tour of duty, he served as an instructor at the Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Virginia. 

After leaving the Marine Corps Al attended the University of Idaho where he received his Bachelor of Architecture degree with a minor in Business Finance in 1977. 

In 2007, Al French was selected as an Honorary Commander for the Logistics Readiness Squadron at Fairchild Air Force Base. After serving three tours as an Honorary Commander, he was made an Eagle Commander and retains that designation to today. 

Prior to joining the Board of County Commissioners in 2011, Al served 2 four-year terms (2002-2009) on the Spokane City Council.  

Currently Commissioner French serves on several local, regional, and statewide Boards and Commissions.  He has received numerous awards for his leadership skills including the single national award in 2008 for the "Outstanding Board Member of the Year" from the American Public Transportation Association.  Al is the only person in the State of Washington to receive this award. 

Commissioner French has more than 44 years of experience as a successful businessman, architect, real estate broker, investment consultant, and developer in the Pacific Northwest. He has attracted new businesses to the region as well as worked with existing businesses looking to expand. 

Commissioner French has worked with many national and international companies bringing thousands of jobs to the community. 

Al serves in a leadership capacity on several countywide initiatives. His extensive experience in business start-ups, recruitment, and retention has contributed to a growing economy for Spokane County with new and better paying jobs.