After serving in the US Marine Corps from 1969 to 1972, Al moved to Moscow, Idaho to attend the University of Idaho where he received his Bachelor of Architecture degree with a minor in Business Finance in 1977. Prior to his first election to the Council, Al had served on numerous boards and commissions throughout city government especially donating his service to the neighborhood committees. Councilman Al French is currently serving his second term on the Spokane City Council. When Council Member Joe Shogan was appointed to serve as Council President, French was nominated and unanimously approved by his peers to serve as Council President Pro Tem.

Awards:

• Economic Development Service Award
• Inland Empire Kiwanis "Man of the Year" Award
• Spokane Police Department Certificate of Appreciation
• Community Development Department Certificate of Appreciation
• Northeast Community Center Outstanding Service Award
• Spokane Transit Authority, "Certificate of Appreciation"
• GMA Steering Committee of Elected Officials, “Certificate of Appreciation”

Boards & Commissions:

• Neighborhood/Communications Committee
• Planning, Community/Economic Development (PCED)
• Public Works Committee (Chair)
• Charter Review Committee
• City Plan Commission
• Downtown Spokane Partnership
• Spokane County Growth Management Act Steering Committee (GMA)
• Spokane Transit Authority
• Charter Review Committee (Chair)

Community Groups:

• Downtown Spokane Partnership
• SNEDA, Secretary/Treasurer
• Health Improvement Partnership
• Northeast Community Center Board, Member and Past Chair
• Nevada-Lidgerwood Neighborhood Council, Chair
• NEVAWOOD COPS, volunteer
• Community Development Board, Chair
• Community Assembly, Chair
• Economic Development Council, Board Member
• FEMA Community Emergency Response Team, Trainer