Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Diversity And Inclusion topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Federal Way diversity commission interviews focus on representation and a procedural dispute over an alternate
Summary
Council interviewed Diversity Commission applicants emphasizing Latino and youth representation, accessibility and outreach; staff clarified that an alternate (Allison Fine) with a prior application within the council’s window could be considered for a voting seat without a new application, prompting a brief procedural dispute.
Federal Way City Council interviewed candidates for open seats on the Diversity Commission and discussed representation, outreach and accessibility. Candidates emphasized cultural programming, youth engagement and services for residents with disabilities.
Carmen Kaler said she would bring Latino representation and suggested recurring cultural events to celebrate different communities. "We could have many cultures represented," Kaler said, proposing indoor options at the Federal Way Community Center for weather flexibility. Ayanna Freeman said she would work with schools and clubs (Black Student Union, Pacific Islander and Latino groups) to connect young people to civic opportunities. Donna Arnold emphasized accessibility and small operational changes (audio materials, sidewalks, signage) to make events and services more inclusive.
Ron Walker, the Diversity Commission chair, said the commission draws out community voices through events such as the city’s MLK celebration and the community festival. Councilors expressed the desire to keep Walker and Arnold on the commission and add new voices to improve representation.
A procedural point emerged when Allison Fine, an alternate who is present at the meeting, told the council she had repeatedly asked the city clerk for an interview and had been told she did not need to reapply. Staff confirmed the council can consider an alternate for a voting seat without a new application if the prior application falls within the council’s application window. The item generated a brief, heated remark from one councilor who said they did not appreciate attempts to "redirect" the process; staff advised council to deliberate and take a formal vote in the public council meeting.
Councilors coalesced around reappointments for Ron Walker and Donna Arnold and adding new voting members (Carmen Kaler or Allison Fine and Ayanna Freeman), but the exact configuration varied among councilors; formal appointments were deferred to the public council meeting later the same evening.
