Title
Interview Candidates, Conduct a Ranked Choice Voting Process and Appoint a Councilmember to Fill the Unexpired Term of Position #5
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to committee
City Manager Recommendation:
Conduct interviews of candidates, conduct a ranked choice voting process and move to appoint a Councilmember to fill the unexpired term of Council Position #5.
Report
Issue:
Whether to select a new Councilmember to fill the unexpired term of Position #5, which was vacated by Lisa Parshley after her election to the State Legislature during the November General Election. Per State law, the City Council has 90 days to fill the vacancy.
Staff Contact:
Kellie Purce Braseth, Strategic Communications Director, City Manager’s Office, 360.753.8361
Background and Analysis:
Former Councilmember Lisa Parshley vacated Council Position #5 on December 31, 2024, following her election to the State Legislature in the November General Elections. Per State law, the City Council has 90 days to fill the vacancy.
Twenty-four applications were received for the vacancy. Following a screening process, Council approved eight applicants to be interviewed in a panel format. Seven candidates confirmed their interest to proceed. The applicants are, alpha order by first name:
• Bridgette Valdez-Kogle
• Daniel Garcia
• Isaac Wagnitz
• Jennifer Reidmayer
• Kelly Green
• Tanzania Zensali-Marshall
• Zachary Lynch
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The Olympia City Council serves as the community’s legislative body, responsible for approving ordinances and resolutions, and establishing City policy that impacts the lives and livability of the community.
Climate Analysis:
No climate impacts are evident.
Equity Analysis:
The Council appointment process is an opportunity to reduce disparities in participation among marginalized communities in City of Olympia’s processes and decisions.
Financial Impact:
No cost is associated in the recruitment and appointment process. The current annual salary for Olympia Council Position #5 receives and annual salary $25,695.73, and a benefit stipend of $6,195.71 for a total compensation of $31,891.44
Options:
1. Conduct interviews of candidates, conduct a ranked choice voting process and move to appoint a Councilmember to fill the unexpired term of Council position #5.
2. Conduct interviews of candidates and do not select a Councilmember from the group of applicants. This would create a delay in filling the vacancy would be delayed. Staff would need guidance on next steps.
3. Do not conduct interviews to select a Councilmember for Council Position #5. This would create a delay in filling the vacancy. Per statute, the City Council has 90 days to fill the vacancy or the responsibility to appoint moves to the Thurston County Commission.
Attachments:
Applications