Title
Interview Candidates, Conduct a Ranked Choice Voting Process and Appoint a Councilmember to Fill the Unexpired Term of Position 2
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 2.
Report
Issue:
Whether to select a new Councilmember to fill the unexpired term of Position 2, which was vacated by Jessica Bateman 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, Executive, 360.753.8361
Background and Analysis:
Mayor Pro Tem Jessica Bateman vacated Council Position 2 on December 31, 2020, 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.
Nearly 30 applications were received for the vacancy. Following a screening process, Council approved seven applicants to be interviewed in a panel format. The applicants are:
* Kento Azegami
* Tracey Carlos
* Holly Davies
* Yen Huynh
* Robbi Kesler
* Dontae Payne
* Maria Siguenza
Neighborhood/Community Interests (If Known):
The large number of applications received for the vacancy reflects a robust interest in the community about the selection of the new Councilmember.
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 2.
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 2. This would create a de...
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