Bremerton mayor pauses hiring for DEI role; residents urge city to publicly reaffirm protections for immigrants

Mayor Greg Wheeler announced at the Feb. 5 Bremerton City Council meeting that the city has paused recruitment for a dedicated diversity, equity and inclusion staff position while officials seek legal guidance about the effect of recent federal executive orders on federal funding.

The pause prompted a wave of public comments calling on the city to publicly reaffirm its support for immigrant residents and to ensure city departments, especially the police, follow state law limiting coordination with federal immigration enforcement.

“The operation of essential services in Bremerton is dependent on the city receiving millions of dollars in federal funds each year. I paused recruitment for the unfilled position so we could get more information on whether having the position would impact Bremerton's ability to receive federal funds,” Mayor Greg Wheeler said. “I am not and I repeat I am not bringing a specific measure or proposal to the city council at this time.”

Why it matters: Dozens of speakers — residents, community organizers and religious leaders —…