Sunday January 14, 2024
Seattle (HOL) - In a move signalling a shift in local governance, the SeaTac City Council appointed Councilmember Mohamed Egal as Mayor and Councilmember Iris Guzmán as Deputy Mayor. The decision, made on January 9, places Egal, a Somali immigrant with a background in social services and community involvement, at the forefront of SeaTac's political landscape.
Egal, who now holds the ceremonial head of the city and chairs the Council meetings, has been a notable figure in SeaTac for his extensive work in senior social services and as a King County Municipal Court Interpreter. His linguistic skills, providing translation and interpretation for Somali speakers, have been a bridge between diverse communities in the region. Egal's academic background, with a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Agriculture from Somali National University and a Senior Leadership Certificate from Washington LeadingAge Institute, complements his over two decades of experience in social services program management.
The election of Mohamed Egal as Mayor is a culmination of a progressive shift in SeaTac politics, a change that started gaining momentum in the 2021 council elections. Egal, along with Guzmán and Jake Simpson, were part of a new, progressive majority that reshaped the council, reflecting SeaTac's diverse demographic, where two-thirds of the residents are people of colour. This shift was notably supported by the Working Families Party, which emphasized community involvement and addressed local issues like housing costs and social services.
Egal's election as Mayor is not only a testament to his personal achievements but also a reflection of the changing dynamics in SeaTac politics. His role in key committees, including the Planning and Economic Development Committee and the King County Sheriff's Office Community Advisory Committee, positions him as an influential figure in shaping the city's future.
Deputy Mayor Iris Guzmán, the daughter of Mexican immigrants and a long-time SeaTac resident, brings her experience as a school social worker and dedication to improving life in SeaTac, particularly for vulnerable and at-risk groups.
The council also welcomed new members, including Peter Kwon, Senayet Negusse, James Lovell, and Joe Vinson, each bringing diverse backgrounds and experiences. Vinson, a King County native, brings nearly two decades of experience in local government.