Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell and newly elected members of the City Council took the oath of office Wednesday evening as the council moved quickly through ceremonial business and then into internal leadership votes.

The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and the ceremonial swearing-in of officials, including Mayor Jim Ferrell and council members Martin Moore, Melissa Hamilton and Les Sessoms. Municipal Court Judge Danielle Havens was also sworn in to her new position.

After the oaths, the council held nominations for council president. Three members were nominated: Linda Kochmar, Martin Moore and Jack Walsh. Each made brief remarks. Moore framed his candidacy around experience and collaboration, saying he would “bring experience to the council” and asking colleagues for their support. Multiple roll-call ballots produced tied results before Moore prevailed by a 4–3 margin. Moore was sworn in as council president on the same night.

Immediately after being sworn in, Council President Moore moved to postpone confirmation of committee appointments to the next regular meeting; the council approved that motion unanimously.

Why this matters: The council president sets meeting procedures and plays a key role in agenda-setting and regional representation. The 4–3 result signals how the newly configured council may divide on policy and committee assignments in the months ahead.

What’s next: The council will reconvene Jan. 20 for the second readings of several ordinances and to take up postponed business, including committee confirmations.