LYNNWOOD—The Lynnwood City Council held a Special Business Meeting on May 4 and unanimously confirm Monisha Harrell, niece to former Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, as the City’s next Assistant City Administrator. The confirmation comes after a nationwide search to fill the position within the City’s Executive Department.
Monisha Harrell is a senior leader with extensive experience in nonprofit governance, public policy, and organizational management. She has held executive roles in local government, including serving as Director of the Office of Equity and Racial and Social Justice for King County and as Senior Deputy Mayor for the City of Seattle. Monisha has also led complex organizations and initiatives focused on civil rights, education, and community impact, including serving as board chair of Equal Rights Washington and in national leadership roles advancing LGBTQ equality. She holds an MBA from the University of Washington Foster School of Business and a bachelor’s degree in film studies from Columbia University.
“It is an honor to be appointed as Lynnwood’s next Assistant City Administrator. A huge thank you to Mayor George Hurst and the Lynnwood City Council. I look forward to years of productive partnership rooted in our shared love for the City of Lynnwood and all the residents that call this city home,” said Harrell. “I know the work will be challenging and rewarding. Collectively, we share values of equity, belonging, and a commitment to supporting an affordable, livable, compassionate, and vibrant city.”
“The search for the Assistant City Administrator involved over 80 applications from 13 states. The final and best candidate, Monisha Harrell, who happens to be a 20-year resident with a Lynnwood address,” explained Mayor George Hurst. “Monisha brings years of experience and leadership to this important role. During the application process, we received many positive comments about Monisha.
“For me, the one that stood out stated, ‘She favors principled approaches even when they are not the easiest political path.’ That is the type of person I want on my team. She will be a key member of this administration as we navigate the current and future challenges in our community.
“I want to thank the hiring committee and City Council for their guidance during this process. I especially want to thank Lynn Sordel for his leadership over the past four months as Interim Assistant City Administrator.”
Monisha will begin her new role on Monday, May 11th.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
