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Council adopts ordinance aligning municipal code with state law on judges pro tem
Summary
Sedro‑Woolley adopted Ordinance 2084‑25 to change municipal code so judges pro tem are appointed by the presiding municipal court judge, consistent with RCW 3.50.
The Sedro‑Woolley City Council adopted Ordinance 2084‑25 on Jan. 22 to amend the municipal code so that judges pro tem are appointed by the presiding municipal court judge, bringing local code into alignment with state law (RCW 3.50).
Nikki (staff) explained the city’s existing code named the mayor as the appointing authority, which conflicts with RCW 3.50. The ordinance replaces the mayoral appointment language, adds requirements consistent with state law for pro tem appointments (written appointment and oath of office) and removes an unnecessary provision on court commissioners, which the city does not currently use or budget for.
Council members asked whether the RCW language is permissive or mandatory; Nikki and the prosecutor’s office advised that RCW 3.50 specifies appointment authority for judges pro tem with the presiding judge. Councilwoman Kesty moved to adopt the ordinance and Councilwoman Diamond seconded; the motion passed by voice vote.
Ordinance 2084‑25 updates the municipal code to reflect state statute and clarifies pay and appointment mechanics for temporary judges.
