At their September 21 meeting, the City Council appointed seven individuals to serve on the new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Commission. The DEI Commission was established by the City Council on August 3.
In early September, nineteen residents interviewed for the commission with a City Council Subcommittee comprised of Mayor Matsumoto Wright, Mayor Pro Tem McCardle and Councilmember Murray. Following a meeting on September 15 to discuss all of the applicants, the Subcommittee made a recommendation to the full City Council at their September 17 work/study session.
At their regular meeting, the following applicants were formally appointed by the full City Council: Alvaro Guillen, William Paige Jr., and Triina Van (terms expiring June 30, 2022) and Saboora Deen, Samatra Doyle, Gary Hale and Karissa Richards (terms expiring June 30, 2023). These initial terms are staggered and after they expire, all terms will be three years in duration.
“It was a tough decision to make to go from nineteen to seven,” stated Mayor Pro Tem Doug McCardle who served on the Council Subcommittee. He noted that the recommended individuals represent the city well in terms of its demographics for equity, inclusion and diversity as well as professional and volunteer experience in this field.
Councilmember Murray stated, “It was a really nice opportunity to hear from a wide variety of our community who really want to be involved.” She added, “This Commission will represent a variety of perspectives and look to bring the broader community’s voices to the table.”
Mayor Matsumoto Wright strongly encouraged the applicants who were not selected and rest of the community to please stay informed and involved as this Commission begins meeting. The full City Council and city staff echoed her sentiments.
The DEI Commission’s mission is to promote and embrace diversity through action, education, and guidance. The Commission will seek to foster an understanding that includes, accepts, respects and appreciates each individual member of our community.
Meeting dates and times will be determined by the Commission once they meet to discuss. It is anticipated the Commission will meet a minimum of once a month beginning in October. A city webpage has been created at www.cityofmlt.com/2084 to stay up to date on meetings and events. For more information about the DEI Commission, please contact City Clerk/Community Relations Director Virginia Olsen at (425) 744-6206 or volsen@mltwa.gov.
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