The Shoreline City Council unanimously approved Resolution 554 on Oct. 13 designating Akropong, Ghana, as Shoreline’s sister city.

City Clerk Jessica Simelcek Smith told the council the Shoreline Sister City Association had met criteria set by an earlier council action and the new sister-city policy, including formal nonprofit status, bylaws and community partners. Laura James, president of the Shoreline Sister City Association, told the council the relationship has grown quickly since outreach began earlier this year and said the partnership has already generated donated artifacts and community interest. "We already have community members that are starting to donate artifacts from their time in Ghana," James said.

Kathleen Russell, a Shoreline resident, said the relationship complements Shoreline’s welcoming-city policy and would offer cultural and educational exchange. "Given that there is value in international contact and exchange with other cultures, this is appropriate and beneficial for Shoreline participation," Russell said.

Council Member Povey moved to approve Resolution 554; the motion was seconded and carried on a roll-call vote with all council members voting aye. The clerk’s roll call recorded Ayes from Council Member Ramsdell, Mayor Roberts, Council Member Robertson, Council Member Povey, Deputy Mayor Mark, Council Member Ademasu and Council Member Scully. The motion passed unanimously.

The staff presentation said the city and the association expect the relationship to provide cultural-exchange programming, youth and educational partnerships, and opportunities for community development and connection with Shoreline’s growing African immigrant community. Staff noted the association had hosted the Eastern Regional minister in June as part of initial exchanges and said shared priorities included education and cultural programs.

Council members spoke in favor of the designation, noting the potential for educational exchanges between Shoreline schools and partners in Akropong and the chance to deepen community engagement with local Ghanaian residents. The council did not attach any conditional funding to the resolution; next steps will be partnership coordination and program planning through the Shoreline Sister City Association and city staff.

Resolution 554 will be added to the city’s records and implementation details — including any formal exchange programs, timelines and potential budget implications — will be developed by the Shoreline Sister City Association with staff support.