Councilman Bruce Harrell jumps into crowded Seattle mayor’s race

A crowded field has grown again, as Seattle City Councilmember Bruce Harrell announced Tuesday he’s joining the race for Seattle mayor.

“I am running for Mayor because people in Seattle need strong, proactive leadership and a leader who inspires our city to build a pathway to success for all; a leader who will jumpstart our city with fresh ideas and energy,” Harrell said in a statement.

Harrell has been a leading voice on the council for police reform and social issues and has been at odds with incumbent Mayor Mike McGinn, especially over appointment of a strong monitor to oversee changes to the police department mandated by the Department of Justice.

“Gang violence and substandard housing described other cities, not Seattle. Our culture demanded that we worked hard to understand the needs of others. My administration will listen and provide “honest straight talk,” this will distinguish it from all others,” he said.

Harrell is proposing the addition of 20 Community Service Officers across the city to “strengthen the police department’s community presence, build relationships and conduct meaningful outreach for the police department and facilitate a program known as Saving Streets and Saving Souls that bring faith communities, gang outreach workers and mentors to the most troubled parts of the city and downtown.”

He’s also proposing extending a program to all Seattle public high schools allowing graduates to attend South Seattle Community College for free.

Harrell has plenty of competition. The former University of Washington football player joins a field that includes McGinn, state Senator Ed Murray, former Seattle City Councilmember Peter Steinbrueck, City Councilmember Tim Burgess, former Greenwood Community Council president Kate Martin and real estate broker Charlie Staadecker.