The Ellensburg City Council meeting on July 23, 2025, spotlighted significant developments regarding public transit funding and the future of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) commission.

A key focus was the appointment of a pro and con committee to prepare arguments for an upcoming ballot measure aimed at funding public transit. City Attorney Chris Warner reported that three volunteers—Jeff Watson, Robert Mercinger, and Jim Hurdick—were appointed to the pro committee, while Logan Cook, Jessica Carriker, and Jennifer Pattison joined the con committee. The council emphasized the importance of balanced representation, urging further recruitment for the con committee to ensure diverse viewpoints are presented to voters. The deadline for submitting arguments is set for August 16, 2025.

In a related discussion, the council addressed a petition from the Kittitas County Democratic Party advocating for the retention of the DEI commission within the city’s comprehensive plan. Chair Steve Verhae highlighted that the petition garnered 1,006 signatures, with 703 from Ellensburg residents. This petition aims to maintain the DEI commission amid ongoing discussions about potential amendments that could eliminate it.

The council's decisions on these matters are poised to shape the community's public transit options and the city's commitment to diversity and inclusion. As the election approaches, the council's actions will be closely watched by residents eager to see how these initiatives unfold.