Title
Interview Candidates, Conduct a Ranked Choice Voting Process and Appoint a Councilmember to Fill the Unexpired Term of Position #6
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 #6.
Report
Issue:
Whether to select a new Councilmember to fill the unexpired term of Position #6, which was vacated by Dontae Payne after his election to the Olympia Mayor position 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, Executive, 360.753.8361
Background and Analysis:
Former Councilmember Dontae Payne vacated Council Position #6 on December 31, 2023, following his election to the position of Olympia Mayor in the November General Elections. Per State law, the City Council has 90 days to fill the vacancy.
Sixteen applications were received for the vacancy. Following a screening process, Council approved six applicants to be interviewed in a panel format. The applicants are:
* Courtney Cecale
* Kelsey Hulse
* Shairus Palotil
* Amna Qazi
* Carole Richmond
* Robert Vanderpool
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. Position #6 receives an annual salary of $23,499.26 and a benefit stipend of $5,546.78 for a tot...
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