After more than three hours of spirited testimony, the Olympia City Council voted 4–3 to adopt Resolution 25-0865 opposing Proposition 1, a sweeping workplace initiative on the November ballot.
Members of Olympia Together—a coalition of small businesses, nonprofits, and citizens urging a “No” vote—filled the chamber in campaign shirts. The group has gained an impressive list of endorsements from current and former leaders across Olympia and nearby cities.
Cheryl Selby, Olympia’s former two-term mayor, urged protection of small businesses and nonprofits already under financial strain. Alex Ketter, owner of a senior-care franchise, said Proposition 1 would classify his company as a large employer, forcing premium pay that could raise Olympia senior care costs by more than 80%. The Olympia Union Gospel Mission warned of reduced services for homeless youth and veterans.
Supporters of Prop1 outnumbered opponents in the Council Chamber about two to one, focused on raising the minimum wage and establishing a “private right of action” to let workers sue employers directly. Supporters said this would ensure enforcement without burdening the city; opponents warned it would encourage costly lawsuits and harm small employers.
Before the vote, Mayor Dontae Payne noted that taking positions on impactful local initiatives is consistent with council tradition. Payne, Mayor Pro Tem Yến Huỳnh, and Councilmembers Dani Madrone and Kelly Green voted for the resolution, citing the need to protect small businesses, nonprofits, and regional economic stability.
