Tumwater’s City Council opened its first regular meeting of 2026 with a ceremonial swearing-in and a proclamation honoring Martin Luther King Jr.

Justice Gordon McLeod administered the oath of office as newly elected officials repeated the pledge and signed their oaths. Mayor Lietta Dalhoff welcomed the packed room and asked the community to lead with “dignity and grace.” After the swearing, the council posed for photographs with the justice.

The council read a proclamation recognizing Jan. 19, 2026, as Martin Luther King Jr. Day and urging residents to “reflect upon Dr. King’s vision and rededicate ourselves to continuing to advance the principles of justice and equality for all.” Dr. Thelma Jackson accepted the proclamation and described the holiday as “a day on, not a day off,” thanking the city for the recognition and inviting the public to a countywide event at New Life Baptist Church on Monday, Jan. 19.

Rev. David Reeves of New Life Baptist Church also spoke, inviting residents to the Jan. 19 commemoration and noting the church’s role as a long-standing congregation in Thurston County.

Council members used the moment to emphasize the council’s work on equity and to encourage public attendance at local observances. The council then moved on to the remainder of the agenda.