MARYSVILLE – Mayor Jon Nehring is establishing a Diversity Advisory Committee to identify and prioritize issues concerning diversity and inclusion, and he is seeking civic-minded candidates to guide the dialogue important to the community’s social and cultural future.

“Marysville must strive to be a more diverse, inclusive and prosperous community that values diversity, and we need to carry the message that we value a diverse workplace,” Nehring said. “In our community and business partnerships and outreach with citizens, we recognize that diversity is essential for innovation.”

Nehring hopes to appoint individuals who reflect the racial, ethnic and socio-economic diversity of the community. The Committee would advise the Mayor on policy matters involving the community’s cultural and ethnic differences, ensuring that these differences are considered in the decision-making process.

Nehring said that he has been interested in the idea of forming a group to work on community diversity. A conversation with recent Council candidate Marvetta Toler, a licensed Realtor with Prudential Northwest Realty, gave him the added impetus to make it happen. Nehring thanks Toler, who not only advocated for a Diversity Committee; she offered to help.

Two major social-economic forces have changed the face of the Marysville area for the better, says Nehring. The influx of sailors and their families stationed at Naval Station Everett have added a rich, diverse character to the community, and the economic revival of the Tulalip Tribes and the strong partnership the City and the Tribes have forged has laid a foundation for prosperity for our respective communities. Nehring adds that Marysville has seen increases in the African-American, Hispanic and Russian/Ukraine communities.

“It is our aim to help Marysville become a community that takes pride in our ethnic diversity, and recognizes its importance in shaping our community and creating a sense of belonging and quality of life we have come to share here,” Nehring said.

To be considered for appointment to the Committee, please send a brief letter of interest no later than 5 p.m., Friday, Nov. 19 to Mayor Jon Nehring, c/o City Clerk – Diversity Committee, 1049 State Ave., Marysville, WA 98270.