The Ellensburg City Council meeting held on July 23, 2025, focused on the contentious discussions surrounding the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Commission and proposed amendments to the city’s comprehensive plan. The meeting featured multiple residents voicing their opinions on the DEI Commission and the implications of the proposed amendments.
The session began with public comments highlighting concerns about the financial implications of the ongoing debate. One resident criticized the $17,000 already spent on complaints related to the DEI Commission, arguing that further expenditures would be wasteful. They emphasized that the amendments submitted lacked clarity and did not provide alternative language, forcing city staff to guess the intentions behind the proposals.
Another resident echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the council should not docket the proposed amendments, particularly since a significant number of requests originated from outside the city. They urged the council to focus on the needs of Ellensburg residents rather than entertain all 309 requests.
Lisonbee Germond, a local resident, raised concerns about the coordination of the amendment proposals, noting that a single individual submitted the majority of them. Germond defended the DEI Commission, arguing that it promotes the celebration of differences within the community and countered claims that it fosters division. They pointed out that many comments against the DEI Commission reflected a misunderstanding of its purpose.
The discussion also touched on the broader implications of removing the DEI Commission, with Germond warning that such actions could lead to the erosion of community celebrations and inclusivity. They highlighted the importance of maintaining a diverse community and the need for the DEI Commission to continue its work.
The meeting concluded with procedural remarks regarding the submission of proposals and the communication process for public meetings. Residents expressed frustration over not being adequately informed about the meeting, raising questions about transparency in the amendment process.
Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing debate within the community regarding diversity and inclusion, financial accountability, and the role of public participation in local governance. The council's next steps remain to be determined as they consider the feedback received from residents.