(The Center Square) – The Seattle City Council’s first action of the new year will be finding a replacement for the District 2 position.
Earlier this month, Tammy Morales announced that she’s resigning from her seat on the council next month. She cited mental health as a reason for her decision. In her letter, she stated that her role as council member has caused her mental and physical well-being to deteriorate.
District 2 represents the neighborhoods of Rainier Beach, Beacon Hill, Columbia City and the Chinatown/International District.
The application period starts on Jan. 2 and closes on Jan. 9 for anyone interested in applying.
Whoever is appointed to represent District 2 will only serve until the 2025 general election results are finalized.
This is the second year in a row that the Seattle City Council has had to appoint a council member. In January, Tanya Woo was appointed to replace Teresa Mosqueda’s seat on the city council after she resigned in order to take a seat on the King County Council.
Applicants are required by state law and city charter to be a U.S. citizen, qualified elector of Washington, read and write in English, and be an active registered voter of the City of Seattle for at least 120 days prior to the date they apply.
Any additional qualifications may be determined by the council.
“We look forward to hearing from and considering the leaders from District 2 who are willing to put themselves forward during this critical time for Seattle,” Seattle City Council President Sara Nelson said in a statement. “This is especially true as we turn to the comprehensive plan and continue our work to enhance public safety and increase accountability.”
The council will have 20 days to fill the vacant position, as set by the city charter. That 20-day period begins Jan. 7, 2025. That is the day after Morales’ official resignation from the council.
A candidate will be appointed once they receive at least five votes in favor. In the event the city council fails to fill the vacant position by the end of the 20-day period on Jan. 27, the council must meet and vote every business day until the vacancy is filled.
