The Seattle City Council’s first order of business for the new year will be selecting a replacement for the District 2 position. Councilwoman Tammy Morales recently announced her impending resignation from her council seat due to concerns about her mental health. In a letter, Morales attributed her decision to the toll that her role as a council member had taken on her mental and physical well-being.
District 2 encompasses the communities of Rainier Beach, Beacon Hill, Columbia City, and the Chinatown/International District. The application window for those interested in applying for the vacant position will open on January 2 and close on January 9.
The individual chosen to represent District 2 will serve until the results of the 2025 general election are finalized. This marks the second consecutive year in which the Seattle City Council has had to appoint a council member. In the previous year, Tanya Woo was appointed to fill the seat left vacant by Teresa Mosqueda’s departure to join the King County Council.
Applicants must meet specific requirements mandated by state law and the city charter. These include being a U.S. citizen, a qualified elector of Washington, proficient in English reading and writing, and an active registered voter in Seattle for a minimum of 120 days prior to applying. The council reserves the right to establish additional qualifications for candidates.
“We welcome the involvement of leaders from District 2 who are willing to step up during this pivotal period for Seattle,” remarked Seattle City Council President Sara Nelson in a statement. “This is particularly important as we address the comprehensive plan and continue our efforts to strengthen public safety and foster greater accountability.”
The city charter stipulates that the council must fill the vacant position within 20 days, starting from January 7, 2025, which is the day following Morales’ official resignation. To secure appointment, a candidate must receive at least five votes in favor from the council members. Should the council fail to reach a decision within the designated 20-day period, they are required to convene and vote each business day until the vacancy is filled.
