City Council chooses Solomon to fill open International District and South Seattle seat

The Seattle City Council has appointed Mark Solomon to fill the open District 2 seat, which encompasses the International District and South Seattle, following the resignation of Tammy Morales. Morales stepped down amid allegations of a toxic work environment, creating a significant vacancy in the council. Solomon, a seasoned community crime prevention coordinator with the Seattle Police Department, has stated that he will focus on pressing local issues, including street disorder and the city's comprehensive plan update. He has confirmed that he will not run for re-election in November 2025. His appointment is set to begin immediately, and the council will finalize committee assignments in early February, with Solomon expected to handle land use matters.

The appointment comes at a critical juncture for Seattle, as land use policies are hotly debated in 2025. Solomon previously competed for a council seat and was endorsed by The Seattle Times during his 2019 campaign, which he lost to Morales. The outcome of this appointment could significantly influence the direction of future council decisions affecting District 2.