 Dear King County District 2 Resident,
Happy new year to all of you! This is your friendly neighborhood King County Councilmember, Girmay Zahilay.
Below are some news, updates, and events that I think you’ll find useful. This email will provide you a snapshot of recent updates. For a more comprehensive list of my office’s legislation and priorities, check out my King County website, where I list what we’ve been working on over the past year. You can also follow my Facebook and Twitter for real-time updates on all our work!
Announcements & Policy Updates
BIG NEWS: I was voted Chair of the Council!
I am honored to share that I have been unanimously elected Chair of the King County Council by my colleagues. It is a privilege to serve in this new role as the leader of the Legislative Branch.
As we move forward, I am committed to using this position to tackle the biggest issues faced by our communities and build a brighter future for all residents of King County. Whether it’s expanding public transit, addressing the behavioral health crisis, keeping our neighborhoods safe, or tackling the housing shortage, I will ensure that every decision we make is driven by the goal of moving our county forward.
Together, we have the opportunity to make real, lasting progress. I look forward to collaborating with each of you in the months ahead. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with ideas, questions, or concerns—your voice is vital as we work together to build a stronger, more prosperous community.
Read the full press release on the vote here.
 Safety on Metro Buses
Last month, King County suffered a terrible tragedy in the death of Shawn Yim, a beloved member of the community and bus operator. Through the bravery and actions of a fellow bus driver, his suspected killer has been apprehended.
I stand with ATU 587 in calling for justice for Shawn as we push for safety for our bus operators and riders, which is one of our highest priorities. The Council held a special committee meeting this week to discuss public safety on transit directly with union leaders, bus operators, and King County Metro, and to explore ways the Council can support ongoing efforts to make public transit safer for everyone.
 My office has also been in direct contact with King County Metro to discuss the situation, and Metro shared some of their safety work:
- In recent years, Metro has more than doubled the number of transit security officers—from 80 to over 170. They’re hiring more, while also recruiting for additional Metro Transit Police. Like so many police agencies nationwide, hiring is a challenge, and we encourage anyone with a guiding commitment to their community to apply.
- Metro and ATU are redesigning buses to strengthen the protections in place for operators. For instance, they are already assessing and improving upon the operator partition that was installed on all buses in 2020 and 2021. They also have two pilot buses featuring different prototypes of cockpit-style doors for the operator’s compartment.
- Additionally, Metro placed an order with a bus manufacturer for four test buses that will feature an ADA-compliant, European-style operator compartment design. This design has similarities to a light rail train, streetcar or subway. Metro is also working with other manufacturers to pursue other operator safety features.
- Buses, much like our sidewalks, are vital public spaces that face many of the same safety challenges we’ve seen in the communities they serve. That’s why Metro and ATU are in active discussions with cities, law enforcement and other regional partners about the security challenges in the communities and on the streets where Metro provides service. Metro will be participating in a new regional taskforce on safety and its impacts on transit.
Additionally, the Council recently passed a 2025 budget that provides funding for the following items regarding safety and security:
- Improving safety, security, and cleanliness for both riders and employees.
- Extending the Safety, Security, and Fare Enforcement (SaFE) Reform initiative, including expanding the Ambassador Program and increasing resources for the Behavioral Health team.
- Sustaining current transit security staffing levels as part of a broader presence and care model.
- Continuing investment in staff to maintain frequent cleaning of Metro’s bus interiors.
- Adding new passenger facility cleaning crews to increase cleaning at high-priority bus stops and to enable a quick response to emergent issues.
I believe that public safety is the most important issue we are working on as a county. Ensuring that our communities are safe and secure is foundational to everything else we do. My office is committed to addressing the root causes of crime and ensuring the safety of every resident. A strong, safe community is the cornerstone of a thriving county, and I will continue to make it my top priority.
To learn more about Shawn directly from his friends and colleagues at Metro, click here. To learn more about Metro’s work in transit safety, click here.
Property Tax Relief for Seniors
More Washington homeowners have a chance to save on their property tax bills this year. After a recent state law change, a long-standing property tax break program for older homeowners and people with disabilities is now open to people with higher incomes, making more Washingtonians eligible. In King County, for example, the change boosted the income limit for the program by 44% this year. Homeowners making up to $84,000 can now qualify.
For more information and to check your eligibility, click here. Read the story in the Seattle Times here.
D2 Survey Results
Thank you to everyone who participated in our recent survey! You shared your top priorities—affordable housing and homelessness, addressing the behavioral health crisis, and public safety—and offered thoughtful solutions. For public safety, many of you emphasized investing in mental health crisis response systems, creating diversion programs that connect people to treatment, and building supportive housing near transit hubs. On climate change, you highlighted the need for reliable transit, increased housing near transit, and more green spaces as key steps forward.
You also let us know how you'd like to stay informed—email newsletters were the clear favorite. Many of you want updates on current legislation and initiatives across King County Government, and we’re excited to deliver on that.
If you haven’t had the chance to participate in our yearly survey, you can fill it out at tinyurl.com/zahilaysurvey2025. Your input helps shape our work, and we’re committed to keeping you updated on the progress we’re making together. Stay tuned!
Supporting Victims of the LA Fires
This week, I joined my colleagues in approving a proposal to establish a county response plan aiding the residents of Los Angeles after the devastating fires of the past week which have already killed 24 people, left 16 missing, and destroyed thousands of homes. I’m grateful to CM Dunn for bringing this legislation forward to support our friends and family in California.
Read more about the legislation here.
Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
As we approach MLK Day this coming Monday, we reflect on the transformative legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—a tireless advocate for justice, equity, and civil rights. His vision continues to guide us in our efforts to create a more inclusive and compassionate world.
Here in King County, named in his honor, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to uphold his values and work toward his dream of equality and opportunity for all. Let’s take this day—and every day—as an opportunity to honor his memory through action, service, and community building.
New minimum wage now in effect in unincorporated King County
With the turning of the year, a new minimum wage of $20.29 per hour has taken effect in unincorporated areas of King County. There are temporary exceptions for businesses with fewer employees and/or lower annual gross revenue.
As the cost of living in King County skyrockets, our workers must have the means to cover basic needs like rent, childcare, and groceries. One job should be enough in King County, and raising the minimum wage is an important step toward ensuring this. I’m proud to have introduced and passed the legislation that made this possible.
Learn more—including how to find out if your business or employer is in unincorporated King County—on the county's Minimum Wage website.
State Senator and State Representative Appointed for the 48th Legislative District
Last week, Vandana Slatted was appointed and sworn in as State Senator for the 48th Legislative District, and Osman Salahuddin was appointed and sworn in as State Representative for the district. Congratulations to both leaders as they step into these vital roles to serve our community!
King County Metro to resume fare inspection in March 2025
King County Metro is planning a phased approach to returning to fare inspection. In the coming weeks, the agency is launching a multilingual communications and outreach campaign to raise awareness of this change and to let riders know they may be eligible for a reduced fare.
Starting March 31, 2025, Metro’s Fare Resource Advocates will ask riders for proof of fare payment. The officers will offer friendly, verbal reminders to riders who did not pay. The Fare Resource Advocates also will provide information on the return to fare inspection. Fare inspection will fully resume starting on May 31, 2025.
Youth who do not have proof of payment will not face a fine or alternative resolution, and will instead receive information on how to enroll in the Free Youth Transit Pass.
Because the freedom to move is a human right, Metro offers reduced and free fares to ensure everyone can take transit:
- People with lower incomes can get an ORCA LIFT card, which allows them to take Metro bus service for $1.
- People with disabilities and seniors are similarly able to ride a Metro bus for $1 with a Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP) card.
- All youth age 18 and younger can ride for free and are encouraged to get an ORCA Youth card.
- Additionally, people with the lowest incomes who are enrolled in certain government programs also can ride for free with the Subsidized Annual Pass.
Please visit ReducedFare.kingcounty.gov to learn more about these programs. There is also a quick, five-question quiz to determine which fare card may be right for you.
For more information, you can read Metro’s announcement here.
Remembering Jonathan Gant
Last week, we received heartbreaking news that Jonathan Gant passed away while volunteering in the Philippines. Jonathan brought love and light everywhere he went, from his home in Skyway to the village in Cebu where he had been distributing Christmas presents to children.
His loss is felt throughout our community, and my heart goes out to all his family and friends at this time. Jonathan’s legacy of warmth, compassion, and unwavering dedication to making this world a better place will continue to inspire us all.
Read more about Jonathan here.
Touring the Filipino Community Center
This month, my office visited the Filipino Community Center. FCS is a vibrant hub in Rainier Valley serving people of all ages, races, and backgrounds, with community members coming from as far as Everett, Tacoma, and Issaquah. Youth programs focus on STEAM education and college prep, while seniors enjoy opportunities for digital literacy, art, and exercise. The Center supports local small businesses through their Small Business Resiliency Network and equips community members for tech careers with a dedicated workforce program. In addition to providing affordable housing for seniors and expanding to include family housing, the Center mentors other organizations and offers space for meetings and events, strengthening connections across the community.
FCS is an important pillar of our community, and I’m proud to support their work in and beyond our district. My office helped secure $5 million in last year’s budget to support their affordable housing work, and we look forward to partnering with them to further expand access to safe, stable housing and culturally informed support systems. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Meeting with the GSBA
This month, my office also spoke with the Greater Seattle Business Association. The GSBA is Washington's statewide LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce with over 1,200 members, supporting queer-owned and allied small businesses through networking, legal help, and technical assistance. They also offer $8,000 scholarships for students pursuing undergrad, grad, or trade schools. On top of that, the GSBA is passionate about advocacy, addressing public safety concerns like rising hate crimes and gun violence in areas like Capitol Hill and White Center, as well as pushing for affordable housing so people can live near work and access shelters that meet the needs of LGBTQ+ communities.
The GSBA is so much more than a business association, and I am grateful for their work and their support through advocacy.
Meeting with Plymouth Housing
Plymouth Housing, established in 1980, provides permanent supportive housing to over 1,400 residents across 16 buildings. Focused on ending homelessness, they follow a "Housing First" approach—prioritizing stable housing before addressing other needs—and use harm reduction strategies to meet residents where they are. Residents, referred through King County’s Coordinated Entry or partner organizations, receive 24/7 support, including a dedicated case manager, while maintaining privacy and dignity. Their income-restricted, rent-controlled apartments serve diverse populations, including veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those with behavioral health needs.
Affordable housing is essential for at-risk populations, providing stability and dignity for those who need it most. Everyone deserves a safe place to call home, and I am deeply grateful for the transformative work Plymouth Housing does to make this a reality for so many in our community.
Meeting with the Lavender Rights Project
This month my office met with the Lavender Rights Project to hear about their current projects and future goals. The LRP is dedicated to advancing equity and justice for marginalized communities, particularly Black, Brown, and Indigenous queer and trans individuals. They are preparing to open an affordable permanent supportive housing facility by June and are piloting a guaranteed income program with hopes to expand it. Their advocacy includes opposing discriminatory policies like SOAP and SODA areas, pushing for inclusive policy-making, and protecting trans rights in the face of potential federal anti-trans laws.
Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, they aim to create safer, more inclusive communities. Their work goes beyond individual assistance, aiming to create systemic change that promotes fairness, respect, and justice. They are instrumental in building a more inclusive society, and I deeply value their dedication and partnership in championing the rights and well-being of our LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and low income neighbors.
Meeting with APIC and ACRS
My office recently met with leaders from the Asian and Pacific Islander Coalition (APIC) and Asian Counseling and Referral Services (ACRS) to discuss pressing issues facing the AANHPI community.
APIC champions civil rights and racial and economic justice, working in solidarity with other communities of color. Their legislative priorities for this year, presented annually at their February lobby day, include expanding Apple Health and unemployment insurance for undocumented residents, funding naturalization services, and increasing legal defense access for immigrants. ACRS offers comprehensive services, including behavioral health, employment support, and programs for youth, seniors, immigrants, and refugees. They highlighted their "Club Bamboo" program, which provides culturally relevant activities and free meals for seniors.
Both groups expressed deep concerns about protecting civil and human rights amid federal policy changes and stressed the importance of ensuring King County remains a safe and welcoming place for immigrant communities.
Organizations like APIC and ACRS are vital to the community as they provide essential resources and advocate for marginalized populations. They address critical needs such as healthcare access, legal defense, and social services, while also creating culturally relevant programs that foster inclusion and connection. Through their work, they empower communities, protect civil rights, and ensure vulnerable populations have a voice in shaping policies that affect their lives.
They are tireless advocates for justice and equity, and I’m proud to partner with them to uplift our AANHPI communities in District 2 and throughout the County.
King County International Airport public comment deadlines extended
In response to community interest, King County International Airport-Boeing Field is extending the public comment period for Supplemental Rules and Regulations that provide standards for facility maintenance and storage and access, badging, and escorting for commercial aeronautical activities. The airport is also extending the public comment period on Minimum Standards providing minimum qualifications and standards for the issuance of licenses and leasehold interests for commercial aeronautical activities.
The new deadline for public comment for both items is Friday, January 31.
Help Shape King County’s Local Food System
Local food is vital to King County’s economy, environment, and communities. That’s why we need your input to help shape the future of our food system!
The King County Local Food Initiative has supported farmers, food businesses, and increased access to healthy, affordable food for nearly a decade. Now, as they update the plan, they want to hear from YOU!
Take the survey by January 31st and help create a vision for a resilient, equitable, and sustainable local food system that works for everyone. The survey is open to all King County residents and is available in Spanish, Hmong, and Kiswahili. To select a language other than English, simply click the gray box in the upper right-hand corner and choose your preferred language.
Survey located here.
Input sought on ORCA day pass price reduction
The ORCA agencies are proposing a permanent price reduction of the adult ORCA regional day pass from $8 to $6 after running a six-month promotion that began last August. This pass will be valid for fares up to $3, aligning with the fare on Link light rail and ST Express bus services. If approved by the ORCA Joint Board, the proposal would go into effect March 1.
The changes would also cut the day pass price for reduced fare riders (ORCA LIFT low-income, seniors, and riders with disabilities) from $4 to $2, aligning with the $1 reduced fare value. Youth 18 and under will continue to ride free.
For riders whose regional day pass does not cover their entire transit fare, the difference can be paid with the ORCA card’s E-purse funds. On a bus, fare differences cannot be paid with cash. Having money loaded onto the ORCA E-purse at all times is the best way to avoid a negative balance and possible blocked card.
More information on fares can be found at https://www.soundtransit.org/ride-with-us/how-to-pay/fares.
The public is invited to send any comments or questions via email to fares@soundtransit.org.
Link Light Rail is coming to South King County. Metro wants to hear from you!
New Link light rail stations will open in Kent-Des Moines, Star Lake, and Federal Way Transit Center as soon as 2026. Metro is seeking feedback from communities in Algona, Auburn, Burien, Des Moines, Federal Way, Kent, Normandy Park, Pacific, SeaTac, and Tukwila on several proposed changes to our transit services in South King County.
You can attend one of the upcoming virtual open houses:
You can also share your thoughts in a survey by February 28th.
For more information, visit the Metro South Link Connections web site.
King County Conservation Futures land acquisition grants
King County Conservation Futures land acquisition grants help government agencies and nonprofits buy land for urban greenspaces, natural areas, restoration sites, forests, community gardens, farms, and trails. They can also fund initial site stabilization costs such as demolition.
The current Conservation Futures grant round opened in November, with applications due on February 10. Visit the Conservation Futures application page for key information. Join weekly online office hours via Zoom (through Feb. 5), or contact Ingrid Lundin with questions.
Federal disaster assistance is available to King County residents and businesses affected by November bomb cyclone
Disaster assistance through the U.S. Small Business Administration is available to help King County residents and businesses recover from the November bomb cyclone.
For more information and to apply online, visit SBA.gov/disaster.
Applicants can also receive in-person application assistance at an SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center, starting Monday, January 6. The centers are located at Bellevue Library and King County Elections in Renton.
The deadline to apply for property damage is February 21, 2025, and the deadline to apply for economic injury is September 23, 2025.
Read King County Executive Dow Constantine's news release.
Property Owners Urged to Apply for Tax Relief if Property is Damaged By Windstorms
In response to the “bomb cyclone” storm that ripped through the region recently, the King County Department of Assessments is now making available an online form so owners who experienced significant damage from the windstorm can apply for property tax relief.
State law allows taxpayers to apply for property tax relief if their property was damaged or destroyed by recent windstorms. Property damaged or destroyed by something beyond the property owner's control is eligible for a reduction of assessed value, resulting in lower property taxes.
Information on the criteria for a claim and how to file online If you own property in King County can be found here: https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/assessor/TaxRelief/DamagedProperty.aspx or you can download a King County Destroyed Property Form (.PDF)
Damaged Property Relief Program Details:
- Any real or personal property that has been destroyed, in whole or in part, or is in an area declared a disaster by the governor and reduced in value by more than twenty (20) percent may apply.
- The amount of tax abatement shall be determined by calculating the taxes on the amount deducted from the assessed value for the number of days that remained in the calendar year after the date of destruction or reduction in the value of the property. If taxes abated have already been paid, the amount paid shall be refunded.
- An application must be filed within three years of the date of destruction or reduction in value.
- If the taxpayer disagrees with the determination made by the County Assessor regarding the destroyed property exemption, he/she may appeal the amount of reduction to the County Board of Equalization within sixty (60) days of notification from the Assessor
- In cases where a fire, natural disaster or vandalism has occurred, supporting documentation is required which identifies the property and the date of occurrence, such as fire department reports and insurance adjuster estimates.
#ReachOut for Free Confidential Mental Health Support – Call or Text 988
Youth and families can access immediate, confidential mental health support through the 988 Hotline. Whether you're going through a tough time or just need someone to talk to, help is only one call or text away. The 988 Hotline is available 24/7 to provide free support whenever you need it.
Save the number 988 and share it with friends—you never know when it could make a difference.
Learn more about the 988 Hotline at 988lifeline.org
King County’s Free Asthma Resource Program
Managing your child’s asthma can be tough, but King County’s Community Health Worker Asthma Program is here to support you! This free program helps families with children ages 6 to 12 reduce asthma triggers and provides valuable education.
Trained community health workers will offer free home or virtual visits to identify asthma triggers like dust mites, pet dander, or mold, and provide personalized recommendations. You may also receive free supplies such as mattress covers, HEPA air cleaners, vacuums, and safer cleaning products to help create a healthier living environment.
Your family may also qualify for a paid research study on the impact of air filters on asthma, which could benefit your child’s health and contribute to important research.
Learn more at this link or fill out the application here!
COVID Vaccines Have Arrived in Washington!
COVID-19 vaccine information has been released by the Washington State Department of Health. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a COVID-19 vaccine this year. Most people 5 years and older only need 1 dose to be up-to-date ahead of the upcoming flu season. Moderna, Pfizer, and Novavax vaccines will be made available this year. There are no recommendations for one vaccine over the other at this time. However, always consult with your doctor or a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns. For additional information and resources, please visit the Washington State Department of Health website
Heat Pumps
King County is installing heat pumps in low- and moderate-income homes in Skyway and White Center at up to 100% cost coverage through its Energize program.
The Energize program launched earlier this year, and gives families access to efficient electric heat pumps for heating and cooling. The program covers 100% of costs for low-income households and 80% of costs for moderate-income households in Skyway and White Center.
Heat pumps are the most efficient, climate-friendly way to heat and cool a home with clean energy rather than fossil fuels. A heat pump is up to four times as efficient as a standard air conditioner or furnace, using less energy to keep a home comfortable.
For more information, please visit this link here or check out this Seattle Times article here.
Working Connections Child Care
Applications for the Working Connections Child Care Grant are accepted on a rolling basis, providing ongoing support for eligible families. WCCC offers assistance to eligible families, helping them afford childcare services. Upon qualification for subsidy benefits and selection of a provider, the state contributes a portion of the childcare costs, with parents responsible for a monthly copayment to their chosen provider. Notably, families experiencing homelessness may receive approval for up to 12 months of support to address homelessness-related challenges.
For comprehensive details and to begin your application process, click here. For questions, reach out to providerhelp@dcyf.wa.gov or call 1-800-394-4571.
Emergency and Unforeseen Funds
Secure support for unexpected facility needs with 4Culture's Emergency and Unforeseen grants. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, providing timely assistance for cultural organizations facing unforeseen challenges. These grants are designed to meet a wide variety of unexpected facility needs, offering funds for actual costs incurred to repair or renovate cultural spaces. Whether it's addressing urgent repairs, unexpected maintenance, or unforeseen renovations, these grants are here to help.
For more details and to apply, visit the grant website here. Have questions? Reach out to Dana Phelan at dana.phelan@4culture.org.
All Kids Play Grant
All Kids Play provides funding to families and communities who need support to cover the costs of youth sports. Grants are available for families with kids in grades K-12 and not-for-profit community-based recreational sports organizations in low-income areas. Funding is distributed on a need and first-come, first-served basis as long as funds are available. Grants can be used for registration, equipment, and other associated fees for sports classes, recreational leagues, and travel sports.
For more information or to apply, visit the grant website, or contact info@allkidsplay.org. This is a valuable opportunity to help youth access sports and recreation programs!
Horizons Foundation of Washington Grants
The Horizons Foundation is a private family foundation dedicated to addressing social and environmental issues in Washington State. Grants are awarded to non-profits working in the areas of the environment, social services, and arts and culture. Grant amounts start at $1,000, with a typical cap of $5,000 for applicants in the Arts and Direct Emergency Services categories.
For more information or to apply, visit the grant website here, or contact horizonsfoundation1@gmail.com. This is a great opportunity for non-profits working to create a positive impact in Washington State!
Project 10Million – Free Internet Connectivity and Devices for Underserved Students
Project 10Million is an initiative designed to bring free Internet and mobile hotspots to millions of underserved student households, along with access to low-cost laptops and tablets. Eligible students from households participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) can receive 100GB of data per year, a free mobile hotspot, and access to affordable devices—one per household.
To qualify, parents must provide proof of NSLP eligibility for free or reduced-price meals, which can include a NSLP notification letter or proof of enrollment in other government programs like SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, Medicaid, Head Start, or programs for foster youth, migrant, homeless, or runaway youth.
For more details, visit the Project 10Million website. This is a fantastic opportunity to ensure students have the connectivity and tools they need to succeed!
Help us grow our reach!
My team and I send email updates like the one you’re currently reading every couple of weeks and we want to ensure we’re reaching as many of you in our community as possible. If you know anyone who would like to receive these updates, please be sure to send them over to our County Council website to sign up!
And as always, for more frequent and daily updates, you can check out our Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter pages. For the latest news, resources, and opportunities to engage with your King County government, follow me on the social media channels of your choice:
Facebook: facebook.com/Councilmember.Girmay
Twitter: @CMGirmayZahilay
Sincerely,
Councilmember Girmay Zahilay
King County Council
District 2
206-477-1002
girmay.zahilay@kingcounty.gov
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