SEATTLE — Seattle Councilmember Rob Johnson will resign from his position next month, making his final day on the dais April 5.
In a Thursday morning blog post, Johnson wrote:
It has been a distinct honor and privilege to work in this capacity, representing the many different people and the great diversity of opinions that give Northeast Seattle its vibrancy.
I depart City Hall feeling immensely proud of working alongside my talented, dedicated staff to accomplish nearly all that I set out to do when I decided to run for this position.
Such accomplishments that Johnson notes include Mandatory Housing Affordability (upzoning) legislation; three city budgets; and supporting the establishment of a safe consumption site for addicts (no site has officially been built). He also said he is proud that voters approved the Sound Transit 3 levy and housing levy during his tenure.
The process to replace Johnson will take 20 days and is expected to begin next week. During that time, the council will appoint a member in Johnson's place. His replacement cannot seek election in the current race. Whoever is appointed has to be from Johnson's District 4.
District 4 covers a range of neighborhoods from Eastlake to northeast Seattle, including the University District, Roosevelt, Ravenna, Sand Point, parts of Fremont and Wallingford, and Laurelhurst.
Rob Johnson resignation
News of Johnson's early exit was initially reported by KING 5. The City Council's media contact said that Johnson will not be granting interviews on the topic. His office said that he was lobbying in Olympia Thursday.
Johnson announced in November 2018 that he would not seek reelection on the November 2019 ballot. It's an election season with seven of the nine council positions up for vote. There are currently nine candidates running for the District 4 spot alone. Candidate Alex Pedersen boasts taking in the most democracy vouchers.
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