SEATTLE — The Seattle City Council on Friday narrowed down the original list of 72 qualified applicants who wish to fill the at-large position left vacant by Teresa Mosqueda to just eight finalists.
A special meeting was held Jan. 12 to hear public comment, decide on hosting duties for a public forum and select the finalists for Position 8.
Those finalists are:
Position 8 became vacant at the beginning of the year when Mosqueda left the city council to be sworn in on the King County Council. Voters elected Mosqueda to represent District 8 in the county during the 2023 general election.
Seattle residents had until Jan. 9 to apply for the position. City Charter gives the council 20 calendar days to fill the vacancy.
A special public meeting for public comment on candidates is anticipated for Jan. 22.
The selection must be made by Jan. 23. If not, the council must meet each business day and vote on the appointment at least once per day until a candidate is selected.
The city council will appoint an applicant, who will serve until the 2024 general election results are certified by King County Elections and the newly-elected council member takes the oath of office.
Who are the 8 finalists?
Juan Cotto
Cotto is currently the senior government affairs and community relations strategist at Bloodwork's Northwest, according to his application. He wrote he brings "over 25 years of experience and a proven track record in government affairs, community relations and strategic leadership."
"With my background in public policy, community outreach, and governmental relations, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to the Seattle City Council. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to bring my skills in strategic planning, coalition building, and community engagement to address the pressing issues facing our city," Cotta's application states.
Neha Nariya
Nariya is the co-founder of Civic Hotel in Seattle, seeing all aspects of day-to-day operations and is "deeply passionate about effectively representing all of the communities to which I belong, along with those which I'm not yet a part of," Nariya's application states.
"In an inclusive city, both residents and visitors play pivotal roles. Fostering connection and dialogue among diverse individuals is crucial for collective success. However, achieving this synergy demands robust leadership to motivate communities into action. As we continue to grow post-COVID, our city faces unique challenges on the path to becoming truly inclusive and accessible to all. Reflecting on my professional and personal journey, my proven track record exemplifies a steadfast commitment to propelling us forward. I firmly believe that working together cohesively as a functional and effective council is paramount to ensuring the sustained prosperity of our city. By addressing challenges head-on and actively engaging in the necessary work, we can build a foundation that embraces inclusivity and propels our community toward collective success," Nariya's application states.
Mark Solomon
Solomon is currently the crime prevention coordinator with the Seattle Police Department, according to his application. He has more than 33 years of experience in "engaging Seattle's diverse stakeholders to address community public safety and quality of life concerns."
"The reason I seek appointment is simple; Seattle is my home, and I want to take care of my home," he wrote in his application. "Having served as a crime prevention coordinator for the past 33 years, I have a deep understanding of the various challenges faced by our communities. I've worked closely with community members, businesses, city and county agencies, and local organizations to craft and implement effective public safety strategies to address those challenges. I am focused on delivering results for the people of our city."
Vivian Song
Vivian Song currently serves on the Seattle Public School board of directors, the Denise Louise Education Center board, the Washington State Leadership Board and is a founding board member of Make Us Visible Washington, according to her application.
"I bring a collaborative approach to public service, relevant finance and budget skills, and first-hand experience in serving residents of Seattle in a city-wide elected office. My motivation to serve on the City Council comes from my dedication to making Seattle the best city in the world in which to learn, work, and raise a family."
Mari Sugiyama
Sugiyama currently works as the community safety investments manager for the City of Seattle's Human Services Department and writes that "the success and well-being of Seattle is what I want to ensure for my own young family and for generations of Seattleites to come."
"The breadth and depth of my experience within city government, and in the non-profit and private sectors has always maintained a common theme of working and serving communities of color and historically marginalized groups. My volunteer community involvement and experience through youth sports programs and higher education opportunities for women have also granted me a perspective that will lend itself to the diversity of opinions needed on today’s council."
Steven Strand
Strand is currently the west precinct commander for the Seattle Police Department and writes "Though the public conversation around being a police officer has changed substantially over the years, I am extremely proud of the work I have done on behalf of the residents of Seattle. Along the way, I have embraced police reform, civilian oversight, accountability, and alternatives to policing."
"My track record demonstrates my ability to inspire collaboration and to work collegially with all stakeholders. I have developed strong relationships over the years across all levels of government, community leadership, residential neighborhoods, and small business that would benefit the entire City Council. I understand there are aspects of council business I will have to learn. I am a quick learner and I am eager to dig into the details of the various policy issues, budget shortfalls, and committee work."
Linh Thai
Thai's last listed job was regional operations manager for The Mission Continues, nonprofit helping veterans facing the challenge of adjusting to life at home, according to his application. Prior to that, he was a district representative for U.S. Congressmember Adam Smith.
He writes that the role on city council "demands a comprehensive understanding of community dynamics, legislative processes, and a heartfelt dedication to addressing critical issues such as education, public safety, and homelessness confronting our beloved city."
Tanya Woo
Woo is currently the lead volunteer for the Chinatown-International District Community Watch, a member of the 37th Legislative District Democrats, and manager of the Louisa Hotel in Seattle.
Woo ran against Seattle City Council Position 2 incumbent Tammy Morales during the 2023 general election and lost by less than 1,000 votes.
Woo writes in her application that the position on the council "presents a unique opportunity to serve and contribute to the thriving community that is Seattle. My multifaceted background, rich community involvement, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of our city make me a compelling candidate for this important position."