City Council Faces Controversy Over Agenda Control

In the heart of Kennewick's city hall, a spirited discussion unfolded during the City Council Workshop on December 10, 2024. Council members gathered to address a long-standing issue: the process of setting the council agenda. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of frustration and determination as council members voiced their concerns about the lack of clarity and control over agenda items.

For years, the agenda has been primarily shaped by the mayor and city manager, leaving little room for input from individual council members. This practice has led to a sense of disconnection among council members, who expressed that significant topics often go unaddressed. One council member pointed out that in their five years of service, only a handful of items had been added to the agenda through council consensus. “We didn’t vote on it. We didn’t talk about more than five items in five years,” they lamented, highlighting a perceived stagnation in council discussions.

The conversation took a reflective turn as members acknowledged the historical precedent of agenda-setting in Kennewick. Another council member noted that past councils had delegated this authority to the city manager, but emphasized that the current council has the power to reclaim that control. “It’s our meeting. We can set our own agenda if we all agree,” they asserted, advocating for a more collaborative approach.

As the dialogue continued, the council members recognized the need for a shift in how agenda items are proposed and discussed. The call for change resonated throughout the room, with members eager to explore new methods for fostering open communication and inclusivity in decision-making.

Amidst the serious discussions, a light-hearted moment emerged when one member suggested that sharing cookies might ease tensions and foster camaraderie. This brief interlude served as a reminder of the importance of unity, even in the face of challenging conversations.

As the workshop concluded, the council left with a renewed sense of purpose. The discussions surrounding agenda-setting not only illuminated the challenges faced by the council but also paved the way for potential reforms that could enhance transparency and collaboration in Kennewick’s governance. The future of the council's agenda may very well depend on the willingness of its members to engage in open dialogue and embrace change.