Bellevue is opening applications for a new City Councilmember to fill the Position 5 seat following Councilmember Janice Zahn's resignation on March 28. Residents interested in serving their community must be registered voters and have resided in Bellevue for at least one year. Applicants are required to submit a letter of interest, which should articulate their vision for the community, reasons for wanting to serve, and top priorities for the city within a 1,000-word limit. The council will review applications during an executive session on March 11, followed by interviews for selected finalists on March 18. The new appointee will serve until the next General Election in November 2025, where Position 5 will be on the ballot along with other council seats.

Bellevue's council operates under a council-manager government structure, providing residents with a direct line to local governance. This recruitment process highlights the importance of local engagement in city affairs and offers a platform for community members to influence decision-making. Interested parties can submit their applications via email, mail, or in person at City Hall by the March 7 deadline.