Title
Update Council Vacancy Recruitment and Application Process
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive an update on the process for recruiting and filling the soon-to-be vacant Council Position #6 and provide guidance to staff.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive an update on the process for recruiting and filling the soon-to-be vacant Council Position #6 and provide guidance to staff.
Staff Contact:
Kellie Purce Braseth, Strategic Communications Director, City Manager's Office, 360.753.8361
Presenter(s):
Kellie Purce Braseth, Strategic Communications Director
Background and Analysis:
With the election of Olympia Councilmember Dontae Payne to the position of Mayor in the November General Election, Olympia City Council Position #6 will become vacant on December 31, 2023.
The Olympia City Councilmembers are tasked with appointing a new member to serve in Position #6 until the certification of the November 2024 General Election, when the public will elect a candidate to fill the Position #6 term. The position's term ends December 31, 2025.
The City opened the application window for Position #6 on November 29, 2023, and the application process closed on Friday December 15, 2023. Staff will update council on the status of the applications currently in hand and check in with Council on the timeline and process for reviewing applications, interviewing candidates and appointing a new Councilmember.
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.
Fina...
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