More than 30 locals gathered for a “City Staff Appreciation Rally” on Monday in front of the Sequim Civic Center.

The approximate 30-minute rally featured residents, city council candidates and city staff sharing positive stories and remarks about handling the COVID-19 pandemic, community responses to race and equity through rallies and discussions, and more.

Prior to the rally, organizer Karen Hogan said city staff “stepped up to the plate with grace and professionalism” the last 18 months and the rally was residents’ “opportunity to recognize their hard work, their competence, and their dedication to the greater good of Sequim.”

She ended the rally with a cheer for city staff.

“It was an awesome crowd,” she said afterward. “The gratitude was clear.”

In attendance were Sequim city councilors Tom Ferrell, Brandon Janisse and Rachel Anderson.

At the virtual Sequim City Council meeting later that night on July 12, Ferrell said the ceremony was apolitical and heartfelt.

Councilor Keith Larkin said he was unable to attend but that wasn’t a reflection of how much he appreciates the work staff does everyday, the support they give the council and are available when needed.

Mayor William Armacost said his work schedule also conflicted and said, “we’re truly blessed with a selfless city staff.”

Organizer Karen Hogan said the “City Staff Appreciation Rally” on Monday had “an awesome crowd,” and “the gratitude was clear.” She ended the rally with a cheer for city staff. Sequim Gazette photo by Matthew Nash