This action is in accordance with Gig Harbor Municipal Code Chapter 2.14 that states, “at the second regular meeting in January of each year, the members of the city council shall elect from their number a mayor pro tempore who shall hold office at the pleasure of the council, and in case of the absence of the mayor, perform the duties of mayor, except that he or she shall not have the power to appoint or remove any officer or to veto any ordinance.”
A mayor pro tempore (pronounced pro tem) is a member of the city council who fills in for the mayor when the mayor is unavailable, such as during travel or a scheduling conflict. This is a long-standing practice in cities across Washington. The mayor pro tempore presides over city council meetings in the mayor’s absence and may represent the city at meetings or ceremonial events. It is a temporary, as-needed role grounded in continuity and good governance. The position does not change the form of government or shift long-term authority.
The city council selects the mayor pro tempore often based on experience and leadership. For residents, it’s one of the ways the city ensures consistent, reliable leadership and clear decision-making at all times.
Also at the Jan. 26 meeting, the city council selected its slate of committee assignments for the next year.
Many of the issues that affect daily life in Gig Harbor are regional by nature. Regionally interwoven systems like transportation, emergency coordination and public safety, housing, environmental protection, and economic development often involve decision making at the regional level with multiple cities and agencies working together. To make sure Gig Harbor has a seat at those tables, city councilmembers are assigned to represent the city on regional boards, committees, and working groups.
The 2026 council committee assignments include:
Loreto Tessicini: Pierce County Flood Control Zone District Advisory Committee, Pierce County Alliance for Sustainable Climate Action
Patrick Amman: West Sound Partners for Ecosystem Recovery (WSPER) Executive Committee, Pierce County Alliance for Sustainable Climate Action
Emily Stone: Pierce County Regional Council (PCRC) alternate
Julie Martin: South Sound Housing Affordability Partners Executive Board alternate
Ben Coronado: City of Gig Harbor Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC), Pierce County Regional Council (PCRC)
Le Rodenberg: Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce Government Relations Committee, Sister Cities Council
Reid Ekberg: Tacoma Narrows Airport Advisory Committee (TNAAC)
When serving in these roles, councilmembers will observe and share Gig Harbor’s perspective, and report back to the city council. They don’t act independently; instead, they help connect regional discussions with local priorities and policies. This is one of the ways the city stays informed, collaborates with neighboring communities, and advocates for Gig Harbor’s needs beyond city boundaries.