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File #: 26-0031    Version: 1
Type: decision Status: Passed
File created: 12/31/2025 In control: City Council
Agenda date: 1/6/2026 Final action: 1/6/2026
Title: Elect a City Councilmember to Serve as Mayor Pro Tem

Title

Elect a City Councilmember to Serve as Mayor Pro Tem

 

Recommended Action

Committee Recommendation:

Not referred to a Committee.

 

City Manager Recommendation:

Move to elect a Councilmember to serve as Mayor Pro Tem.

 

Report

Issue:

Whether to elect a Councilmember to serve as Mayor Pro Tem.

 

Staff Contact:

Jay Burney, City Manager, 360.753.8740

 

Presenter(s):

Dontae Payne, Mayor

 

Background and Analysis:

The Mayor Pro Tem works closely with the Mayor, City Council, and City Manager to help guide the City’s direction and ensure effective governance. They step in to perform the Mayor’s duties when the Mayor is absent, including attending ceremonial events.

 

The Mayor Pro Tem helps develop council agendas, supports the Mayor in facilitating council meetings, and represents councilmembers’ interests during agenda-setting. They also collaborate with councilmembers on specific issues, attend regional mayoral meetings, and participate in quarterly Three Cities meetings with other local leaders and city managers.

 

In January, after an election year, or at another time deemed appropriate by the City Council, they shall elect a Mayor Pro Tem. The term of the Mayor Pro Tem shall be two years.

 

Climate Analysis:

This decision does not have impacts on issues related to climate.

 

Equity Analysis:

The role of Mayor Pro Tem supports equity through shared governance by ensuring that all representatives have an equal voice in leadership decisions, helping balance power and promote inclusive decision-making.

 

Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):

There are no specific known community interests regarding this decision.

 

Financial Impact:

The total compensation for Mayor Pro Tem, including health insurance stipend, is $36,836.49.

 

Options:

1.                     Move to elect a Councilmember to serve as  Mayor Pro Tem.

2.                     Do not elect a Councilmember to serve as Mayor Pro Tem.

3.                     Take other action.

 

Attachments:

None