Seattle City Council Nominates Jim Bory for District 5 Appointment

Seattle City Council has taken significant steps towards filling the vacant District 5 council position, with nominations now officially closed. During the special meeting held on July 17, 2025, Council Member Kettle expressed confidence in the group of candidates nominated, highlighting the importance of transparency and community engagement in the selection process.

Kettle emphasized the need for a representative who understands the long-term implications of their decisions, noting a preference for candidates willing to run for election in 16 months. This approach aims to ensure accountability to the voters. The nominated candidates include Jim Bory, who was praised for his extensive experience in city and county administration, and other finalists such as Nilu Jenks, Julie Kang, Robert D. Wilson, and Katie Jaime.

The next steps in the appointment process involve a public forum scheduled for July 21, where finalists will engage with the community. This forum is crucial for candidates to demonstrate their qualifications and connect with constituents. Following this, the council will hold a special meeting on July 28 to appoint the new District 5 representative.

This process underscores the council's commitment to involving the community in decision-making and ensuring that the needs of District 5 residents are prioritized. As the council prepares for the upcoming forum and appointment meeting, the focus remains on selecting a candidate who can effectively represent the interests of the district.