Federal Funding Cuts Impact to King County
 Click on the image above to watch Director Dively's presentation.
Today at Health, Housing, and Human Services Committee, we had Council Performance, Strategy, and Budget Director, Dwight Dively in committee to provide an update on federal funding cuts and their impacts to King County residents. Director Dively outlined three major threats that are impacting the County’s ability to provide services to residents, and direct impacts to our communities in King County:
- Illegal attempts by the Trump administration to take back funding that has already been appropriated for programs and services provided by the County
- New, unacceptable conditions on grants that the County has relied upon for decades
- Upcoming substantial funding cuts to discretionary programs like Medicaid, and programs administered by Public Health and the Department of Community and Human Services
- Risks to provider funding even as clients and residents face increased needs threats due to identities and/or immigration status, and suffering from cuts to food programs, Medicaid, housing vouchers, more
- Rising costs of affordable housing construction caused by tariffs exacerbating existing cost challenges due to inflation
This is a dire and evolving situation that stands to impact every aspect of the programs and services provided by the County, and every community in our region. The County will continue to fight back against illegal attempts to pillage federal funding and policies, stand strong in our values and in stand with our communities who are under attack, and daylight the impacts of these.
We will continue to have Director Dively in committee on a monthly basis to provide an update on the developing situation. You can find the PowerPoint slides from Director Dively, which provide detailed information about the cuts experienced so far and the concerns on the horizon here.
Improving Health and Addressing Homelessness: Neighborhood Partnerships Making an Impact
 Click on the image above to watch how one Neighborhood Outreach Systems Coordinator has helped design and build this model.
At the latest Board of Health Meeting, local experts shared inspiring anecdotes about how neighborhood-level interventions can improve the health of people experiencing homelessness.
One such example is how the University District Partnership (UDP) is addressing homelessness and public health challenges through collaborative, trauma-informed initiatives. Since 2015, with the help of individuals like David Delgado, a UDistrict Outreach worker for the last 5 years, UDP has worked to foster safer and healthier communities through advocacy, economic development, and outreach programs. In 2024, REACH engaged nearly 370 individuals, helping 58 people move indoors, including 20 into permanent housing. Additionally, the program provided mental health and substance use support, legal assistance, and case management services to improve long-term stability.
Through initiatives like the King County Right of Way (ROW) Encampment Resolution Program and Neighborhood Case Conferencing, UDP has successfully housed over 523 individuals, with 73% remaining housed. By focusing on high-impact individuals, fostering local partnerships, and engaging the community in problem-solving, UDP is reducing homelessness while improving public health and safety. These neighborhood-driven approaches demonstrate that when communities collaborate, sustainable solutions to homelessness and public health challenges are achievable.
Health Through Housing Successes
 Click on the image above for more Health Through Housing Initiative updates.
On a brighter note, when we work locally to create the funding streams to support local investments affordable housing and services our communities rely on, we see tangible positive impacts in our communities. Here's an update from the Department of Community and Human Services on affordable housing investments, delivering significant milestones on affordable housing:
- Opened 950 Health Through Housing homes in 11 buildings across 5 cities by the end of 2024. 85% of residents have connections to the community where their HTH site is located.
- Opened 1,650 new affordable homes in 2024 across 15 projects. This is 70% higher than in previous years.
- Invested in operations and supportive services for 4,080homes and 5,009 beds across 91 projects
Perspectives from the Flood Control District Board: Addressing Our Challenges Together
HESCO Barriers along the Duwamish River in the South Park neighborhood.
The King County Flood Control District is committed to reducing flood risks while promoting equity, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. In the last of a special three-part blog series, I, along with Councilmembers von Reichbauer and Dunn share our leadership priorities on flood risk reduction in the diverse communities we serve across King County. Our work with the Flood Control District emphasizes the need for equitable investments in flood prevention and innovative solutions to address flooding challenges. As a board member, I advocate for programs like the Flood Reduction Grants and Cooperative Watershed Grants, which support both flood resilience and ecosystem restoration. A key focus has been the South Park neighborhood, where I’ve helped secure funding for expanded flood prevention services, including educational materials and a collaboration with the City of Seattle on a flood prevention project. Flood protection is a matter of social and environmental justice, and I remain committed to ensuring that all communities, especially those historically underserved, receive the protection they deserve. Read all installments of the series: one, two, and three.
Remembering Frank Chopp
I want to take a moment to honor the life and legacy of one of Washington's most transformative leaders. Our team is deeply saddened by the passing of former House Speaker Frank Chopp on March 22nd. It feels like just yesterday Councilmember Dembowski and I proclaimed Frank "Mr. Affordable Housing" Chopp Day in King County as we recognized his over 30 years of service as a community organizer, nonprofit executive, and elected official. He championed critical issues such as affordable housing, healthcare, mental health, and paid family leave, leaving a lasting impact on thousands of families. His work, including programs like ‘Apple Health for Kids’ and the ‘Home and Hope’ initiative, changed the trajectory for many people across Washington.
Frank’s passion for public service and his ability to bring people together for meaningful change will be deeply missed. Even after his retirement in January 2025, he continued to advocate for new housing policies and services for those in need. He was known for his kindness, enthusiasm, and intellectual curiosity, and those who had the privilege of working with him will remember his unwavering dedication and his ability to inspire others. While our thoughts are with Frank’s family during this difficult time, we are comforted in knowing that his legacy of service will continue to benefit Washingtonians for generations to come. View the moments from last Council when we all paid tribute to Frank.
Executive Constantine, Thank You for Your Service
Thank you to Executive Dow Constantine for 16 years of service as the King County Executive, and 6 years as a King County Councilmember before that. Executive Constantine is moving on to serve as CEO of Sound Transit during a pivotal time for the agency as our region works collectively to deliver one of the largest infrastructure projects in our history through ST3’s regional light rail expansion.
In his time as County Executive, he led on major environmental initiatives, including land conservation and efforts to fight climate change, mass transit expansion, behavioral health service expansion, and ramping up our creation of affordable housing.
Today is Dow’s first day at Sound Transit and we wish him the best of luck in this new chapter!
King County Council's First Female Executive
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In an historic moment for King County, Shannon Braddock has been appointed as the first female Executive in the Council's 56-year history. As part of the next steps following the departure of Executive Constantine, the Council appoints an acting Executive who serves until a permanent Executive is selected in the November general election. Since her appointment as Deputy Executive in June 2023, Shannon has been integral in guiding Executive Constantine’s priorities, advising on policy development, emerging issues, and government relations. With a strong background in the Executive’s Office since 2017 – including roles as Chief of Staff and Director of Council Relations – Shannon has the experience and expertise to lead King County through this pivotal time. Additionally, she has a deep history in public service, having worked with former County Councilmember, and my predecessor, Joe McDermott, and in regulatory affairs and the U.S. House of Representatives. Her appointment is a significant milestone, reflecting her dedication to serving the people of King County with leadership and vision.
Celebrating Women’s History Month Proclamation
 The Council proclaimed March as Women’s History Month to recognize and celebrate the vital contributions women have made throughout history. From Washington State becoming the fifth state to grant women’s suffrage in 1910, to the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965, and the continued efforts for equality, women have played a crucial role in shaping our communities, economy, government, and cultural spheres. The proclamation highlights the importance of addressing barriers to equity, the growing presence of women in leadership roles, and their ongoing fight for bodily autonomy and access to healthcare. Women of every race, background, and identity continue to make historic contributions that strengthen King County and beyond.
Prior to the March 25th council meeting, the Council and the Equity & Social Justice Office hosted the annual Women’s History Panel. I was honored to join with Councilmembers Balducci and Perry to introduce a fantastic panel of community members to discuss the theme: Moving Forward Together! Women educating and inspiring generations. During the panel event, the second annual Jeanne Kohl-Welles Women Uplifting Women Award was presented to Angie Hinojos, Executive Director of Centro Cultural Mexicano by former Councilmember Kohl-Welles, who spearheaded this event and is the namesake of the award. Angie was recognized for her art, efforts towards providing educational equity, and advocacy work.
Proclaiming Transgender Day of Visibility
 Last week, the Council officially proclaimed March 31st as Transgender Day of Visibility, marking the first time the Council has recognized this important day. The proclamation celebrates the lives and contributions of transgender individuals, emphasizing the need to stand in solidarity with the transgender community in the face of rising discrimination. Founded in 2010 by Rachel Crandall-Crocker, Transgender Day of Visibility honors the strength and resilience of gender-diverse people, while acknowledging the challenges they face. With over 3.3 million transgender individuals in the U.S., this proclamation underscores the importance of protecting their rights and fostering an inclusive, supportive environment. Advocate, Danni Askini of the Gender Justice League, highlighted the significance of the Council's support for transgender people, stressing the need for continued protection and empowerment.
Downtown Community Council
 Thanks to the Downtown Community Council for hosting such a thoughtful and productive panel on public health and safety in the Downtown core! I had the chance to hear from and briefly speak alongside all-stars in the field: CARE department Chief Amy Barden, Downtown Emergency Service Center Executive Director Daniel Malone, City of Seattle’s Public Safety Director Natalie Walton-Anderson, and Seattle/King County Public Health’s Brad Finegood. The panelists spoke about the division of labor amongst some of the many different entities working at the intersection of public health and safety Downtown, philosophy behind methods employed, and what additional tools are needed to accomplish our shared goals of safety and health. I joined at the end to make a plug for the need for resources at all stages of interventions – public health clinics, treatment centers, outreach providers, housing, and more – for any of them to be effective, and to speak to how limited our ability is at the County to raise revenue for these causes right now. I spoke to how urgently we need new revenue tools granted to us by our State partners, especially in the face of decreased federal funding.
D8 Days: Vashon Island Connection and Collaboration
 We had the pleasure of spending a full and rewarding day on Vashon Island, connecting with local leaders and community members who are doing incredible work to support and grow their island.
Our day began at the Vashon Heritage Museum, where we were warmly welcomed by Greta and Sue, where they shared fascinating insights into the island's rich and complex history. It was a great way to kick off our visit and deepen our understanding of the community's roots.
Next, we visited Vashon Thriftway – the heart of on the island. There, we had the chance to meet with store leadership and the dedicated workers who keep the island stocked with essentials. Their hard work and commitment are key to the island’s daily rhythm.
We then met with local leaders from the Vashon Climate Action Planning Group at the Vashon Methodist Church. We heard about their enduring efforts to establish a resilience hub – a vital project that will strengthen the community’s ability to adapt to the challenges of climate change.
Our team was graciously hosted by the Vashon Chamber of Commerce, where we were able to have a productive discussion with Islanders for Ferry Action, advocating for better ferry services for the island’s residents.
Finally, we concluded our day at Vashon Center for the Arts by participating in the 2025 Vashon Affordable Housing Forum hosted by Vashon Housing Advocates. During this critical meeting, we explored potential solutions to addressing the island’s housing crisis. You can read about the event here in the Beachcomber.
A big thank you to everyone on Vashon for your warm reception and for sharing your passion for this beautiful community. My team and I are honored to serve you, and we look forward to continued collaboration.
Boulevard Park Library Visit
Our local libraries are more than just places to find a good book – they are true community hubs. I recently visited one of the many wonderful King County branches, this one located in Boulevard Park in Burien. I especially appreciate that their storytime for kids takes place on weekends, making it accessible for working families in District 8. The high attendance is a testament to how much the community values this time together. I even took the opportunity to get myself a new King County Library Card!
Metro Service Changes
 This past weekend, King County Metro implemented updated schedules and increased bus service. Improvements include hundreds of new weekend bus trips on key routes that are supported by the Seattle Transit Measure. Below, I highlight some route changes affecting District 8, but refer to Metro’s Service Change website for the full list of route changes.
Route 8: Eight new trips will be added on Saturday and 33 new trips will be added on Sunday.
Route 36: 14 new trips will be added on Saturday and 36 new trips will be added on Sunday.
Route 56: This route will have one fewer trip each weekday during the morning commute hours, which is a reduction in trips that are currently funded by the Seattle Transit Measure. These service hours will be re-invested in other routes to better meet the City’s policy goals and equity commitments.
Route 124: One trip will be added on Saturday and two trips will be added on Sunday.
RapidRide C Line: Buses will come about every 10 minutes or more frequently. This route will have fewer trips during afternoon commute hours, some of which were funded by the voter-approved Seattle Transit Measure. This change is to support Seattle’s equity goals, better align with transit need and demand, and be consistent with Metro’s RapidRide policies.
RapidRide G Line: Two late night trips will be added for both weekday and weekend service.
RapidRide H line: Five trips will be added on weekdays and three trips will be added on Saturday and Sunday.
Protecting Coho Salmon from Toxic Stormwater Runoff
 Click on the image above to watch the video that includes footage from the Associated Press, filmed by my husband, Manuel Valdes, AP reporter, taken over 6 years ago!
King County scientists have discovered a breakthrough solution to protect coho salmon from toxic runoff. A new soil mixture effectively removes 6PPDQ, a harmful chemical found in tire dust, from stormwater. Laboratory tests showed that salmon exposed to stormwater filtered through this mixture survived 100%, compared to nearly 100% mortality in unfiltered water.
Ongoing research, including a pilot project in Whatcom County, aims to confirm its effectiveness in real-world conditions. This innovation could significantly improve stormwater quality and salmon survival, with potential benefits for the entire region, including D8's own Longfellow Creek and Duwamish Waterway. Read the full article and watch the video here!
Draft Proposed ordinance updating King County Title 16 Building and Construction Standards and Title 17 Fire codes
The King County Permitting Division is offering a proposed King County development code ordinance for public review and comment.
Public comments on this draft proposed ordinance will be accepted through Monday, April 14th. They may be submitted via email, U.S. mail, or voicemail (see “How to comment” below). Note: Any public comments received are public records and are subject to public disclosure.
Documents for review
How to comment
What happens next
After the draft is finalized, it is estimated to be transmitted to the King County Council in September 2025 for review, refinement, and possible adoption. There will be an additional opportunity for public review and comment on the proposed amendments after the ordinance is submitted to the council for consideration.
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KCIA’s Draft 2025-2030 Strategic Plan available for review and comment
King County International Airport-Boeing Field (KCIA) has been working on updating the 2014-2020 Airport Strategic Plan. The updated plan develops a clear strategic focus for what KCIA should do to advance its vision over the next six years and to identify appropriate goals and implement actions that realize this vision. This update is an opportunity to evaluate the airport’s role on a local level and in the regional economy. There has been significant engagement throughout the planning process with KCIA tenants, community members, airport staff and Airport Roundtable members. Get more information on the Airport Strategic Plan.
Submit comments by 5 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time on April 18, 2025.
Comments can be submitted in three ways:
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CISC Community Job Fair
Looking for a job or career change? Join the CISC Community Job Fair on April 18th from 10 am – 12 pm at CISC's Seattle office! Explore job opportunities, learn about Seattle labor laws, and connect with employers.
Click on the flyer to register.
King County Metro Equity Cabinet
Applications due by April 20th at 11:59 pm.
 Click on the image above to learn more.
King County Metro needs new members to join their Mobility Equity Cabinet to help them shape our transit policies, plans, and programs.
Members of the cabinet will:
- Gain a deep understanding of Metro as an organization, its guiding policies, services, operations and decision making.
- Build and strengthen connections in their communities, learn and share about their community’s history, assets, needs and priorities around transit.
- Shape Metro initiatives and policy updates by collaborating and advising us on key initiatives and policy updates.
They are seeking applicants who live, work, or regularly visit King County, or use King County Metro services.
Members are compensated $75 per hour for time attending meetings, reviewing materials, community research and engagement, or other, related activities outside of meetings.
Metro strongly encourages youth and young people to apply. Established members will offer opportunities to pair up with and mentor newer members and youth will be encouraged to take an active role in ensuring outcomes represent the values and priorities of the next generation of transit riders.
Monthly meetings will be held virtually on weekday evenings. There will be up to two in-person meetings at the beginning of the term and one to two additional in-person meetings or events per year. In-person meetings or events may be scheduled on weeknights or weekends, depending on group preference.
Metro will provide reasonable accommodations needed for participation such as interpretation during meetings, translation of materials, and alternative formats. Metro will seek to address other request such as technology support or childcare stipends on a case-by-case basis.
Please email community.relations@kingcounty.gov with any questions about the application process.
Applications due by April 11th at 5 pm.
 The King County Department of Local Services is providing $200,000 in grants to support vibrant, inclusive, and culturally enriching festivals, markets, and other community events in the White Center/North Highline unincorporated area. This investment was chosen by community members as part of the county’s Participatory Budgeting program. In the current funding cycle, nonprofits and community groups are invited to apply for grants that celebrate White Center/North Highline by doing the following:
- Foster community engagement through events that celebrate White Center and North Highline’s diversity and culture.
- Support youth-led initiatives and provide meaningful opportunities for young people to participate in event planning and execution.
- Enhance economic opportunities by promoting local business, artists, and food vendors.
- Create safe and welcoming spaces for families and residents to connect and celebrate.
Grant requests can range from $25,000 to $50,000.
King County Parks Levy Grants
Applications due by April 3rd at 9 am.
Port of Seattle’s South King County Community Impact Fund Grant Applications due by April 10th.
2025 Community Climate Resilience Grant Program
Applications due by April 14th at 8 am.
Request for Proposals (RFP): Youth Development
Applications due by April 15th at 2 pm.
VSHSL FS 5: Supporting Student Veterans and Their Families Funding Opportunity
Applications due by April 16th at 2 pm.
4Culture Building for Equity Facilities Grant
Applications due by April 17th at 5 pm.
Trueblood Short-term Housing RFP
Applications due by April 18th at 2 pm.
Best Starts for Kids Prenatal to Five Innovation Fund RFP
Round 1 Applications due by May 9th at 2 pm.
4Culture Launch Program
Applications due by August 27th at 5 pm.
 4Culture invites you to join them this April for a conversation about new funding and how your new organization can apply.
The new Launch grant program provides funding for new and emerging nonprofit organizations in King County that are focused on:
- Arts
- Heritage
- Historic Preservation
- Science & Technology
Organizations selected through the Launch program will receive three years of unrestricted general operating support and will also have access to additional capacity-building support services.
Join 4Culture at one of their five upcoming info sessions to learn more about how to apply for Launch funding! All sessions are free and open to the public.
If you have any questions about the Launch Program, visit 4Culture’s website or contact Launch Program Manager Casey Moser.
2025 Bus Ticket Program Rolling RFP and Requests for Additional Allocation for Current Awardees
Applications due by September 2nd at 5 pm.
This is the 6th year of the festival, and they're excited to receive entries from poets near and far! The first 250 entries will be displayed in the garden in May, but all submissions are eligible for jury review.
 Click on the flyer above for more details and to enter.
Reminder: Council Recess
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As we wrap up this quarter, I want to express how truly honored it has been to serve District 8 as your elected Councilmember. Your trust and support in me and my team and your contributions to the community continue to inspire me every day. Please note that we will be on recess beginning April 7th, returning on April 14th. My team and I look forward to continuing our work together when we return. |
 Thank you for signing up for the #TeresaTuesday Newsletter. We will send you regular updates every other week. If you’d like to reach out or have an issue we can help with, please reach out anytime.
Thank you for allowing us to represent you on the King County Council!
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