The seven winning candidates from November’s General Election were just sworn-in as Seattle City Councilmembers. Five of the seven individuals are new councilmembers, the most in more than a century. Two others are returning for their second term in office.
More information about each of them, including quotes can be found below.
Rob Saka (District 1)
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape the culture here at City Hall from the ground up – a culture that truly unifies our City.”
Tammy J. Morales (District 2)
“I’m honored to be here today to begin my second term representing the people of District 2 – a part of the city with so much brilliance and so much potential. I want to thank everyone who voted for me. I want to thank my entire district for the honor of continuing to serve you. I want to welcome my new colleagues to the Seattle City Council. I’m looking forward to working with each and every one of you.”
Joy Hollingsworth (District 3)
“I can’t wait to get to work with my new Council colleagues. As we usher in a new era at City Hall together, I am excited to get to work, give my D3 neighbors a voice at city hall, and address the issues we face in both District 3 and the city.”
Maritza Rivera (District 4)
“I believe we can earn back the trust and respect of the residents of Seattle. I am humbled by the privilege to work with my colleagues on the Council, with Mayor Harrell, and with our entire community.”
Cathy Moore (District 5)
“Friends, at this time when the sirens of a strongman sing loudly, we must demonstrate that a pluralistic society and democratic government can meet the needs of all its residents for safety, for housing, for opportunity, and for community and care. I have no doubt that Seattle will rise to the call and, once again, show itself a leader. So, now, without a moment to lose, Iet us get to work.”
Dan Strauss (District 6)
“It is us working together that will create the success we all want and know we can be. I look forward to working with you, working for the residents of D6 and Seattle. Now, let’s get the job done for our city.”
Robert Kettle (District 7)
“As a new Councilmember I am looking to bring my public service experience from my Naval career and from the past decade being a civic volunteer and community leader to my new role. Ultimately, it’s about creating a safe base for our children, our families, our small businesses, our bigger ones too, our schools, and our busses. But, also, importantly, for the most vulnerable amongst us and those in crisis.”
Councilmember Sara Nelson (Position 9) was also elected Council President during this meeting. She had the following to say about her new colleagues:
“While the learning curve will be steep, there’s every reason to believe that given the diversity of experience these new leaders bring to the job, there is cause for optimism. With an attorney in the technology sector in Rob Saka, a small business owner in Joy Hollingsworth, a veteran strategic advisor in Maritza Rivera, a former Superior Court judge in Cathy Moore, and a former Naval intelligence officer turned stay-at-home dad in Bob Kettle joining the ranks, we’ve got the skills to solve our biggest problems. Today, we usher in a new era of pragmatism and results at City Hall,” concluded newly-elected Council President Sara Nelson.