Wheeler Announces Departure of Senior Policy Advisor

Mayor Ted Wheeler’s office announced in a Friday-afternoon press release that Berk Nelson, Wheeler’s senior policy advisor on public safety and livability, is leaving office and that his last day will be March 15. According to the release, Nelson is taking an unspecified position in the private sector.

"This has been one of the most rewarding experiences for me because I have gained immeasurable insight into how government serves the community. I am grateful to the Mayor for giving me this opportunity. I have made many friends and partnerships along the way that I will carry into my next position,” Nelson said in the press release.

“I will miss Berk – he brought a wealth of intelligence and ideas to this challenging position. I have been lucky to have such a talented, hardworking advisor over the last two years,” Wheeler said in the same release. “I wish Berk the best of luck in his future endeavors, and am confident he will continue to excel.”

Nelson, who had worked in the mayor’s office since January 2017, had previously worked as an attorney in immigration law and general litigation. The release credits him with relocating R2DToo, examining alternatives for first responders to non-emergency calls and working with the county to address mental health.