DEI Commission highlights strategic plan, bilingual outreach and launch of community ambassadors

Mountlake Terrace — The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission presented its newly adopted strategic plan and 2026 implementation priorities at the Feb. 19 council meeting, emphasizing community outreach, partnerships and measurement.

Deputy City Manager (presenting on behalf of the commission) and commissioners Theresa Courtney and Vanita Francisco reviewed 2025 highlights including a council‑approved strategic plan developed with community input, bilingual outreach co‑hosted with Snohomish County Health and Sno Isle Libraries, a well‑attended January 2025 open house at City Hall, Juneteenth and cultural events, and partnership work with the Edmonds School District.

The commission said it onboards 11 community ambassadors to broaden outreach and will measure progress against the DEI strategic plan goals. Commissioners stressed the importance of removing barriers to access for community members, job applicants and contractors and of coordinating events such as a multilingual night at the library and a March 18 partnership event at Mountlake Terrace High School.

Council members thanked the commissioners for volunteer work and asked staff to continue supporting implementation. The council noted the role of DEI efforts in the city branding and asked that the commission continue community engagement on proclamations and cultural activities.

What happens next: The commission will implement the community ambassador program, measure outcomes against strategic plan goals, and coordinate upcoming public events with city staff and partner organizations.