Seattles new district-based City Council ready to be sworn in

The Seattle City Council will officially take office on Monday, marking a significant moment with nine members representing seven districts and two at-large positions. Among the returning members, Kshama Sawant will continue her advocacy for progressive policies, including a millionaires tax and paid family leave. In this inaugural meeting, the Council will elect its president, with Bruce Harrell favored for the role and will also finalize committee assignments. Sawant is expected to chair the Energy and Environment Committee, although she had hoped for the affordable housing committee. The new Council's composition includes two Latinas and a majority of women, reflecting a shift in representation.

The seven district members, elected in November, will serve four-year terms, while the at-large seats will be contested again in 2017. Sawant's agenda focuses on pressing issues like affordable housing and small business rent control, aiming for progressive outcomes from the Housing Affordability and Livability Agenda. The Council's diverse makeup and Sawant's ambitious goals set the stage for impactful local governance.