The Shoreline City Council voted unanimously to adopt Resolution 554 designating Akropong, Ghana, as a sister city.

The resolution maker and a second moved the measure after a staff presentation explaining that the Shoreline Sister City Association had met the criteria in the city’s sister‑city policy and notified the city manager of its recommendation to designate Akropong. The council then heard two public commenters in support before taking the vote.

The sister‑city recommendation came to the council after the Shoreline Sister City Association notified staff that it had become a nonprofit, elected a board and adopted bylaws, fulfilling requirements in a prior council directive. The staff presentation noted the association cited shared characteristics — Akropong’s midsize, suburban character and proximity to a major metropolitan area — and an active relationship that began in April 2024, including a visit by the Eastern Regional minister in June.

“I'm Laura James. I am a Shoreline resident and the current president of the Shoreline Sister City Association. I'm here in support of Akropong being our sister city,” said Laura James, president of the Shoreline Sister City Association, during public comment.

Kathleen Russell, a Shoreline resident who testified in support, said the relationship complements Shoreline’s welcoming‑city policy and could bring cultural and educational exchanges: “Given that there is value in international contact and exchange with other cultures, this is appropriate and beneficial for Shoreline participation,” Russell said.

Council members spoke in favor of the designation, citing community interest and potential benefits including cultural exchange, youth and educational programming, tourism and small‑business linkages. Council discussion noted prior outreach by the association and engagement from local Ghanaian community members.

The clerk conducted a roll call. Council Member Scully, Council Member Ramsdale, Deputy Mayor Morick, Mayor Roberts, Council Member Ademasu, Council Member Pobbe and Council Member Robertson voted “aye.” The clerk announced the motion passed unanimously.

With the resolution passed, staff and the Shoreline Sister City Association are expected to proceed with implementation steps outlined in the city policy, including formalizing exchange activities and coordinating any forthcoming programs and events.