Resolution Calling for an Inclusive Process to Select the Next General Manager of Seattle City Light

January 21, 2026

WHEREAS, Seattle City Light is our publicly owned utility entrusted with delivering safe, reliable, and affordable power while advancing Seattle’s climate, workforce, and equity goals, and fulfilling this mission requires executive leadership with a deep understanding of utility operations, infrastructure planning, and deep relationships with the unionized workforce represented by PROTEC17 and IBEW Local 77; and

WHEREAS, the scale of the climate transition and pressures from AI and other technologies, combined with aging infrastructure and the need for equitable investment across all communities, demands leadership capable of working effectively with labor organizations, City departments, community-based organizations, and Tribal governments, including respect for Tribal sovereignty; and

WHEREAS, effective leadership at Seattle City Light depends on both technical and operational expertise, but also on strong local political acumen, credibility within Seattle’s civic and regulatory environment, and the ability to clearly communicate and collaborate across multiple stakeholders to align reliability, affordability, climate resilience, and racial equity outcomes;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that this body calls on the Mayor of Seattle to establish a transparent, inclusive process for selecting the next General Manager of Seattle City Light, incorporating meaningful input from utility employees and our unions, climate advocates, equity-focused organizations, affordable housing advocates, community stakeholders, and Tribal Nations; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this process prioritize candidates with demonstrated utility and electrical industry experience, familiarity with field and system operations, capacity to manage complex capital programs, proven partnership with unionized workforces, strong local political judgment, and a clear record of effective communication and collaboration in advancing climate goals and equitable public service.