Title
2025 Election Update
Recommended Action
NA
Report
Issue:
Whether the selection of two new Board members has been made.
Staff Contact:
Jennica Machado, Economic Development Director, Community Planning & Economic Development, jmachado@ci.olympia.wa.us <mailto:jmachado@ci.olympia.wa.us>, 360.753.8591
Presenter(s):
Election Committee
Background and Analysis:
With the expiration of a board member’s term an election is needed to fill the PBIA Board with the 11 needed members. An election was not held in fall 2024 and new members or the reelection of previous members is needed.
Climate Analysis:
Holding an election for a new PBIA Board member does not directly impact climate goals but could influence future decisions affecting sustainability downtown.
Equity Analysis:
Holding an election for new PBIA Board members is an opportunity to ensure broader and more equitable representation of downtown stakeholders. Choosing not to hold an election could reinforce existing disparities by limiting leadership opportunities to a small or less diverse group. A transparent, inclusive process would help distribute leadership benefits more equitably and foster stronger trust and participation among business owners and community members.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Downtown Olympia.
Options:
1. Move forward with names presented by the Election Committee.
2. Do not move forward with names presented by the Election Committee.
Financial Impact:
This would not allow us to spend down remaining PBIA funds.
Attachments:
N/A