Payne ceremonially sworn in as Olympia mayor

Dontae Payne called on community members to invest in improving the city in his inaugural speech after being sworn in as Olympia mayor.

"I have a gavel, not a magic wand. I will not solve all of our community issues alone. This council cannot do it alone. We need all our community members to be invested in making Olympia better. It is my job, as the leader, to call upon this common purpose for us all to help identify solutions and take action," Payne said.

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland administered Payne's ceremonial oath of office during a city council meeting on Tuesday, January 2. The formal and initial swearing-in was administered on December 27. 

Payne reflected on the public’s questions about his desire to serve as mayor at such a tumultuous time for the city and the nation. He said he felt compelled to step up to the role because issues that impact residents are at stake.

The mayor also referenced Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s counsel that people need "leaders not in love with money, but in love with justice; not in love with publicity, but in love with humanity." He continued, "That's why I stepped up to serve. It is my honor, and I believe it is my moral duty."

Councilmember Dani Madrone sworn in.

At the same meeting, councilmembers Dani Madrone and Yen Huynh were also sworn in for their reelected seats.

Mayor Pro Tem

Olympia Councilmember Yen Huynh swearing in.

The city council voted for Huynh as the new Mayor Pro Tem, a role similar to a vice or deputy mayor.

Payne said he had the opportunity to work alongside Huynh on the council’s Community Livability and Public Safety committee. He commented that Huynh had demonstrated her ability to think outside the box, ask tough questions when needed, and sometimes disagree with him. He said that he believes these qualities make her a good voice for the rest of the council as Mayor Pro Tem.

According to Madrone, Huynh has built strong relationships with each councilmember and with other staff in her three years on the council.

Madrone commented that Huynh brings a thoughtful perspective to her role and understands the need for collaboration on difficult issues. Madrone expressed her belief that Huynh will do a good job representing all councilmembers and ensuring that their processes work well.

After being selected as Mayor Pro Tem, Huynh said she sees the role as “relational.” She added that she looks forward to learning and supporting the new mayor in her new position.

Dontae Payne swears into office as Olympia City Mayor on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.