Vacant Seat Opens On Bellevue Council As Slatter Ascends To Legislature

BELLEVUE, WA - Councilwoman Vandana Slatter announced at Monday's meeting that she will resign her seat effective Jan. 14 after being selected to replace Patty Kuderer in the 48th Legislative District state House seat.

Slatter could've kept her council seat while serving in Olympia. The Council has 90 days to find a replacement. Bellevue residents who have lived here for at least a year and are registered to vote would be eligible to fill the seat, according to state law.

Slatter, who is in the second year of a four-year term, said in a statement that she will use her Council experience at the state-level.

"It has been an honor to serve the people of Bellevue," she said in a statement. "I am so grateful for this opportunity to represent the 48th Legislative District and continue advocating for this vibrant, innovative and diverse community. I plan to bring my experience as a city councilmember and unique perspective to address key issues that affect the families and communities in the 48th District."

State Rep. Patty Kuderer, D-Clyde Hill, was selected by the King County Council last week to fill the Senate seat left open by Cyrus Habib, who was elected lieutenant governor in November. Slatter was selected to fill Kuderer's seat.

Image via Vandana Slatter