On December 29, Seattle mayor-elect Bruce Harrell announced the latest round of recruiters to join his government cabinet as he prepares to take office next week.
Yamaguchi Kendy
Based on the opinions and stated priorities of community leaders, Harrell has hired Kendee Yamaguchi as Deputy Mayor of External Affairs. Yamaguchi is a former city employee and currently serves as the executive director of Snohomish County. His mission is to establish strong collaborative relationships between the City of Seattle and community groups, non-profit organizations, and local businesses.
“In the past few months, I have heard calls for a representative and responsive city government at transition meetings and on the street, together with city leaders and everyday neighbors. My executive team and cabinet are working on This prioritized approach is established,” Harrell said.
Yamaguchi will help support the city’s COVID response, guide the mayor’s external relations team, and coordinate the mayor’s priorities around cultural initiatives and activities, including in the areas of art, film, music, sports, job creation, and nightlife.
Matt Chen
Also joining the Harrell government is Matt Chan, who will serve as a special advisor for public participation, advising the mayor on how the city can strategically use digital technology to increase public participation, enhance transparency, and resolve the digital divide. Mr. Chen has more than 45 years of award-winning success in the television industry and served on the KCTS Board of Directors. His work makes him one of the few people of color on the list of “50 Reality Power Producers” reported by Hollywood.
“When people like Matt Chan respond to the call for public service to help Seattle reach a new level of meaningful public participation, so that all voices can be heard, I feel very happy,” Harrell said. “This is a key part of our vision.”
Marico Lockhart
Mariko Lockhart, the current director of the Seattle Civil Rights Office, will rejoin the Seattle Education and Early Learning Department as deputy director. She and director Dwane Chappelle will continue to promote major equity initiatives and provide high-quality support to Seattle students.
Harrell said: “The combination of Ms. Lockhart’s previous leadership in education and Mr. Wheeler-Smith’s leadership in fair work will produce outstanding results in our main fairness program with education and guidance as the main components.”
