PORT TOWNSEND — Applications are open for those interested in filling the vacancy on the Port Townsend City Council left by Position 2 member Aislinn Palmer, who resigned at the end of last month.
“I encourage community members to consider applying to serve in this important role,” Mayor David Faber said in a statement. “The policy work of City Council ranges from technical to visionary and affects all of our daily lives. This is a critical time to fix our difficult problems and build on our successes for the future of Port Townsend.”
The application period closes at 4 p.m. July 5, and the council hopes to have the new member sworn in and attending their first meeting on Aug. 12.
Palmer announced her resignation last month, effective May 31, saying she was moving to Seattle and would no longer be eligible to serve on the council.
The replacement will serve out the remainder of Palmer’s term, set to end in 2025.
Eligible candidates must be at least 18 years old, a resident of Port Townsend for at least a year, a registered voter in Jefferson County and a U.S. citizen.
Candidates are asked to provide written answers to nine questions posed by current council members in a response not totaling more than five pages.
Some of the questions asked include, “What is your understanding of and perspective on the City’s most pressing challenges and opportunities?” and “What is your understanding of our form of government (Council-Manager) and a City Councilmember’s responsibilities?”
Council members work together to set policies and laws, adopt an annual budget, approve appropriations and contract for services. The council also hires and evaluates the city manager, who is responsible for preparing a budget, recruiting, hiring and supervising city staff and operating the services of city government.
Members may also serve on or work with city council committees, regional and local committees and agency boards. Council members also attend occasional workshops and conferences, particularly those most related to crucial topics like the Open Public Meetings Act.
Serving on the city council is a part-time position and comes with a monthly salary of $725, with an increase to $775 set for January 2026.
Current council members will create a shortlist of candidates during an executive session at their regular meeting on July 15, and 30-minute candidate interviews will be conducted at a special meeting from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. July 23.
The council’s Aug. 5 meeting will include deliberations and a decision on a Position 2 appointment. The prospective candidate will be sworn in and begin their term on Aug. 12.
The replacement will serve through 2025, when the seat will be up for election.
Interested parties are asked to submit application materials to the city clerk’s office by email or traditional mail.
More information on the position and application materials can be found at the city’s website, cityofpt.us/citycouncil.
________
Reporter Peter Segall can be reached by email at peter.segall@peninsuladailynews.com.
