Richland City Council Swears in Three Councilmembers, Selects Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem

​The Richland City Council officially welcomed three councilmembers during its meeting on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, with the swearing-in of Pat Holten (Position 3), Kurt Maier (Position 6), and Ryan Whitten (Position 7).
 
Pat Holten was recently elected to serve in Position 3, bringing decades of experience in education, community service, and civic involvement to the Council. Kurt Maier and Ryan Whitten were both re-elected to their respective positions, continuing their service and leadership on behalf of the Richland community.
 
In addition to the swearing-in ceremony, the City Council selected Theresa Richardson to serve as Mayor and Shayne VanDyke to serve as Mayor Pro Tem for 2026.
 
Council Position 4 remains vacant, with the City of Richland currently accepting applications from qualified residents interested in serving on the City Council. Applications will be accepted through 5:00 p.m., January 16, 2026.
 
Per the Richland City Charter, the individual appointed to fill the vacancy will serve until the candidate elected in the November 3, 2026, General Election takes office. Eligibility requirements and application materials are available at richlandwa.gov/bccvacancies.
 
For more information about the City Council vacancy or the application process, please visit richlandwa.gov or contact the City Clerk’s Office at 509-942-7390.