Chapter 2.60
EQUITY COMMISSION
Sections:
2.60.040 Organization – Records.
2.60.050 Commission duties and responsibilities.
2.60.010 Creation.
There is hereby created an equity commission which shall perform all of the duties and shall have all of the authority hereinafter set out.
(Ord. O2025-017, Added, 10/21/2025)
2.60.020 Purpose.
The commission’s purpose is to identify and promote activities related to city services and facilities that foster a more welcoming community. It aims to enhance participation from underrepresented community members and address existing gaps and barriers that may prevent full engagement in city governance and public policy. The commission will provide recommendations to the city council to improve local government practices and policies.
(Ord. O2025-017, Added, 10/21/2025)
2.60.030 Membership – Terms.
A. The commission shall consist of seven general members who reside in the city of Tumwater. One general member may reside in Tumwater’s urban growth area. Commissioners shall be appointed by the mayor, which appointment shall be subject to confirmation by the city council. The members shall be selected without respect to political affiliations.
B. The original appointment of members to the equity commission shall be as follows: three for two years, four for three years. Thereafter, appointments shall be made for a three-year term. Vacancies shall be filled by the mayor for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment.
C. A simple majority of the currently appointed membership of the equity commission shall constitute a quorum.
D. The commission members shall not receive any salary or other compensation for services rendered on the commission.
E. Vacancies occurring otherwise than through the expiration of terms shall be filled for the remainder of the unexpired term in the same manner in which the original appointment was made.
F. Members may be removed from the commission prior to the expiration of their term of office by the mayor, pursuant to TMC Chapter 2.54.
(Ord. O2025-017, Added, 10/21/2025)
2.60.040 Organization – Records.
A. The commission shall select its own chairperson from within its membership and may create such other offices and adopt all rules as it may deem necessary for the orderly conduct of its business.
B. An accurate record shall be kept of the proceedings of all meetings. These records shall be public and a copy thereof shall be transmitted to the city clerk after each meeting.
(Ord. O2025-017, Added, 10/21/2025)
2.60.050 Commission duties and responsibilities.
The commission shall have the power and it shall be its duty, subject to such rules and regulations as may from time to time be prescribed by ordinance, to:
A. Provide awareness and feedback to the mayor and city council on issues of inequity in city facilities and services; and
B. Identify existing gaps and barriers which could prevent full participation in government and public policy; and
C. Seek greater participation from underrepresented community members in city activities, including events, governance, and public policy.
(Ord. O2025-017, Added, 10/21/2025)