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View the webinar by clicking on the image above (Passcode: g9v#42PX)
I was thrilled to join nearly 100 Local Progress members from across the country to present in the webinar conversation focused on the impact of the federal budget reconciliation and its impacts on our communities. In turbulent times like these, it’s grounding to connect with like-minded local elected officials who are championing progressive ideals and pushing back against harmful federal proposals. The Trump Administration and its unelected billionaire appointees are planning to use budget reconciliation to slash funding for essential services – like Medicaid, SNAP, and housing – just to give massive tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy and big corporations. Local leaders have an important role to play in stopping this and exposing the harm. We are doing through this recent webinar, where I had the opportunity to share what we’re doing in King County to spotlight the local impact of federal budget decisions. This complements the hearings I am hosting in my monthly Health, Housing, & Human Services committee. In my monthly briefings we’ve invited our Budget Director, Dwight Dively, to make sure we are exposing the harm created by the federal cuts and threats, and to advocate for our shared priorities – ensuring continued investment in public health, emergency response, affordable housing, and more. Now is the time to speak up and tell Congress to put families over billionaires. Learn more and get involved with the #FamiliesOverBillionaires campaign at familiesoverbillionaires.org.
View the webinar here (Passcode: g9v#42PX) and the slide deck here.
Parks Levy PASSES!
 At a time when federal funding for parks is being cut, King County is stepping up with a bold new Parks Levy that expands access to green space, recreation, and climate resilience across the region. The levy invests in vital community resources - from keeping Evergreen Pool open for life-saving swim lessons, to expanding trails, enhancing play spaces, and supporting unscheduled, accessible recreation. It also funds EV charging stations, restroom and hygiene facilities, and tree planting to combat heat islands. With a focus on equity, the levy addresses historic disinvestment and includes climate resilience hubs and community centers in areas like White Center and Georgetown. Many thanks to Chairs Dembowski and von Reichbauer, Executive staff, and my Chief of Staff, Erin House, for spearheading this forward. Now, it goes to the voters to shape the future of King County parks.
Strengthening the County's Commitments to Strong Labor Standards
 As the federal administration continues to roll back hard-fought labor standards and gut support for working families, the County is doubling down on our commitment to rights and protections for workers in our region. I'm thrilled to be bringing two pieces of labor legislation to the Budget & Fiscal Management Committee for a first discussion on April 23rd. My team and I have been working on these pieces of legislation since last year, designed to ensure that when public dollars are used for contracted services and County-owned public land is leased out, our public assets and investments are supporting strong labor standards and reducing disparities by contracting with minority- and women-owned businesses. Here's a breakdown of the policies:
Responsible Contracting for Services:
This legislation would expand the County's responsible contracting policies to contracts for services, such as janitorial and security services, and ensure that the County is working to reduce disparities by utilizing women-and minority-owned businesses for contracted services. This policy sets forth a range of considerations for County procurement and contracting processes, including contractor who have a good record on labor standards, are committed to safety and worker training, and other ways to ensure the contractors we work with align with our values and goals as a county.
Applying a responsible contracting approach to County-contracted services will ensure that socially-responsible use of County resources and promoting labor standards and equity through our public dollars.
Community Workforce Agreements for Major Leases on County-Owned Land:
When King County undertakes major projects, we are proud to use Community Workforce Agreements (CWAs) that help bring in communities and individuals who have been historically excluded from these types of jobs into the workforce by targeted methods such as apprenticeship utilization goals and recruitment from specific areas. These agreements also help create family-supporting jobs through their use of prevailing wages.
This legislation would expand the current County practice of utilizing CWAs to major tenant improvements on county owned property above 5 million dollars. The executive would be required to negotiate into new leases and lease extensions provisions that these labor standards be used. This is a commonsense way to bring major projects in line with major County capital projects, and holding big tenants to the same standards as we do ourselves.
You can follow both pieces of legislation by tuning in via King County TV to the Budget & Fiscal Management Committee on Wednesday April 23rd at 9:30 am.
You can offer public comment with the link included in the agenda.
Weekend Schedule Resumes for King County Landfill
 Thanks to the advocacy of Teamsters Local 174, the county has paused its Cedar Hills Facility weekend landfill closure pilot program, allowing waste management operations to resume with a more practical schedule. After initial chaos during the rollout, which saw garbage pile up at transfer stations and long lines at the landfill, the county has decided to reopen the landfill on weekends, ensuring haulers have the capacity they need. Teamsters Local 174 played a key role in negotiating these changes, prioritizing both workers' needs and service reliability. With these adjustments, trash management is expected to run more smoothly, avoiding further disruptions and revenue losses while keeping operations on track for the long term.
April 17th Board of Health Meeting
 Former Washington Secretary of Health Mary Selecky
The Board of Health will host a hybrid meeting on April 17th at 1 pm to discuss a comprehensive agenda addressing public health issues and initiatives. The Board will hear a series of briefings to include an update on the Food Safety Program and efforts to streamline food business permitting, youth mental health and substance use in King County, and Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention update. All details including how to provide public comment can be found here.
We will also be honoring the life and contributions of Mary Selecky, former Director of the Washington State Department of Health, who passed away suddenly. Over her 14-year tenure as Secretary of Health, Selecky led life-saving initiatives - including reducing adult smoking rates by nearly one-third and helped Washington become one of the first states to earn national public health accreditation. Widely honored for her service, she leaves behind a legacy of a stronger, more equitable public health system.
Vaisakhi Day Proclamation
 The Council has proclaimed April 13, 2025, as Vaisakhi Day in recognition of one of the most important celebrations in the Sikh calendar. Founded in the Punjab region in the 15th century, Sikhism is the world’s fifth-largest religion, and King County is proud to be home to the seventh-largest Sikh community in the United States. Vaisakhi marks both the spring harvest and the founding of the Khalsa in 1699—symbolizing justice, devotion, and community. It is a day for reflection, service, and celebration of Sikh heritage and values. The Council invites all residents to honor this day by learning more about Sikh history and embracing the rich cultural diversity that strengthens our region.
Recognizing the 50th Anniversary of Khmer Rouge Genocide
 April 17, 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge seizing Phnom Penh, Cambodia - a tragic turning point that led to the genocide of approximately 2 million people over four years. Today, King County is home to more than 22,000 Cambodian Americans, the third-largest concentration in the United States. Many community leaders and elders have worked tirelessly to reclaim cultural traditions nearly lost during the genocide, and to support healing through education and empowerment. As we reflect on this solemn anniversary, the King County Council honors the resilience of the Khmer community and reaffirms the importance of remembering history to ensure a more just and compassionate future.
Prevention Of Drug Overdose & Expansion Of Treatment Options
King County’s work to expand access to drug treatment and prevent overdoses continues. Above is a report on progress made over the last year. You can find more detailed information here.
Last week, King County announced a permanent site for the sobering center in Seattle’s SODO neighborhood, which will provide a safe place for people to recover from the acute effects of intoxication and connect with treatment services, housing assistance, and other support. The new center, located at 1950 1st Ave S, will be operated by Pioneer Human Services and serve up to 40 people at a time.
King County plans to open the center by the end of this year. The current temporary facility, located in the Yesler Building, served more than 1,000 people in 2024.
Sobering centers have been an integral part of our communities for nearly 30 years — one of many resources in the recovery-oriented system of care that the King County Behavioral Health & Recovery Division supports and oversees.
Meeting on Critical Areas Regulations Ordinance and Schedule Update
 The Council's Local Services and Land Use Committee will hold a briefing on the Executive's transmitted Critical Areas Regulations ordinance on Wednesday, April 16th at 9:30 am. The meeting will be in a hybrid format; public comments may be submitted in writing, in person in the Council Chambers on the 10th Floor of the King County Courthouse, at 516 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA, or through the Zoom webinar. Information on how to participate in Committee meetings is available on the Committee website.
The Critical Areas Regulations ordinance is item 6 on the Committee agenda, and will include a discussion of the Council policy staff analysis of the Executive's transmitted ordinance.
A written staff report will be posted to the website when it is available.
Schedule Update
The Council's review and adoption schedule has been updated. The updated schedule shows a longer schedule for Council review than was previously planned. The updated schedule now shows Committee action in July, and full Council action in October. More details are shown in the updated schedule.
Public Comment Opportunities
Written comments on the proposed plan are welcome at any time during the Council’s review. Comments can be submitted electronically by emailing CouncilCompPlan@kingcounty.gov. The Council looks forward to your involvement in the review of the proposed 2025 Comprehensive Plan update.
Empowering Women with Mujer al Volante
We visited with Mujer al Volante, a Washington-based nonprofit offering programs to empower low-income immigrant and refugee women. Their flagship course, "Taking the Steering Wheel of My Life," provides free training on obtaining a driver’s license, defensive driving, and emotional support. The program also addresses barriers like financial, social, and family challenges, offering strategies for mobility, self-advocacy, and respect. Available in multiple languages, it serves women from diverse backgrounds.
In addition to driving skills, Mujer al Volante offers other empowering programs, including business training, digital literacy, financial education, leadership development, and civic engagement. These initiatives help women build independence, confidence, and leadership skills to navigate both life and the road ahead.
Para Los Niños Northwest: Uplifting Latino Families
 Councilmember Mosqueda with Para Los Niños Executive Director Virginia Herrera-Páramo.
Recently I met with Executive Director Virginia Herrera-Páramo of Para Los Niños Northwest (PLN). PLN is a nonprofit based in South King County that empowers Latino children and families through education, leadership, and community support. Founded by Latino parents, PLN bridges barriers like language, access, and unfamiliarity with U.S. systems by offering culturally relevant programs—from early learning and literacy to parent leadership and summer enrichment.
In 2023 alone, PLN supported over 1,700 households with resources like food, rental assistance, school supplies, and health education. Their work is a powerful example of community-led change and resilience. Learn more or support their mission at plnwa.org.
Blending Sport and STEM: Starfire Sports Inspires the Next Generation
 Councilmember Mosqueda with former Councilmember Julia Patterson and CEO Eric Olmstead.
A big thank you to the team at Starfire Sports for showing me and my team around! This world-class facility isn't just a dream space for soccer and rugby fans – it's also a place where kids can get hands-on with STEM. As we gear up for the excitement of the 2026 World Cup, it’s more important than ever to make sure our youth are part of the fun, learning, and inspiration that come with it. Starfire is making that possible by blending sport with education in meaningful ways.
I’m especially excited about the summer camps they’re offering – perfect for parents looking for quality activities while school’s out. From aviation and coding to soccer and STEM, Starfire’s programs provide access and opportunity to kids of all backgrounds. As a nonprofit, they’re committed to inclusivity, ensuring every child has a chance to learn, grow, and play in a supportive environment.
Standing in Solidarity with Union Workers
 Across our region, workers are standing up and demanding what they deserve – safe working conditions, fair wages, and respect on the job. From Teamsters 117 at Mauser, to journalists at Cascade PBS with The News Guild, to grocery workers at QFC represented by UFCW 3000, union members are taking bold action to protect their rights and uplift their industries. These strikes aren’t just about individual workplaces – they’re about the broader fight for dignity, equity, and economic justice for all working people.
I stand in solidarity with these workers and their unions. Whether it’s the essential workers keeping our stores running, the journalists keeping us informed, or the industrial workers keeping supply chains moving, each plays a critical role in our communities. Their courage in organizing and striking reminds us that collective action is one of the most powerful tools we have to create lasting change. Let’s continue to support them in every way we can.
Special Election Ballot Measure
 King County Elections mailed ballots to voters for the April Special Election. All 1.4 million registered voters are eligible to participate in this election as voters weigh in on six ballot measures.
You should have received your ballot by Monday, April 7th. If you didn’t, call King County Elections at 206-296-VOTE (8683).
Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day, April 22nd, or in a ballot drop box by 8 pm on Election Day.
You can track your ballot online and sign up for ballot alerts about where your ballot is in the process.
Growing up in the White Center Teen Program
 Click on the image above to watch the video.
King County TV's most recent production highlights Brothers Sokha and Vana Danh are community leaders – Sokha owns Seattle’s first independent Asian American Bookstore, mam's books, and Vana mentors youth in White Center. Both got their start at the White Center Teen Program, which has been serving south King County youth for over three decades.
King County Water Taxi: Summer Schedule Returns with Late-Night Service to West Seattle and a Green Shift to Renewable Diesel
 This spring and summer, the King County Water Taxi is making waves in more ways than one. As it kicks off its expanded seasonal schedule – with daily sailings between downtown Seattle, West Seattle, and Vashon Island – riders can look forward to scenic, speedy trips to all kinds of events, from ball games to beach days. With midday service to Vashon and late-night returns on weekends, the Water Taxi is the perfect way to explore the region while soaking in views of the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier. View the full schedule here.
But there’s more to celebrate than just a smooth ride – King County is also going green! The Water Taxi fleet, including the Doc Maynard and the Sally Fox, is now powered by renewable diesel, a clean-burning alternative made from recycled fats and oils. This shift will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 60% compared to traditional diesel, helping Metro move closer to a 100% zero-emissions future. It’s a powerful example of how sustainable innovation and accessible public transit can go hand in hand – keeping our air cleaner while keeping people connected. Read more on the Captain's Blog.
1 Line Service Disruption
 Click on the image above to learn more.
Starting April 14 until April 23, Sound Transit will reduce 1 Line service while replacing cracked rail south of International District/Chinatown Station. Completing this work will remove the 10-mph slow order, which currently affects Angle Lake/southbound trains.
Riders must transfer at Westlake and Stadium for continued light rail service. After reaching these stations, downtown Seattle passengers are encouraged to use the local bus service.
Dedication Of Bus Shelter Murals Celebrating Latino Community, Culture, And Heritage
 Click on the image above to view the full flyer.
Join for the unveiling of new Metro bus shelter murals on created by northwest Latino artists and photographers, including Fulgencio Lazo, Juan Pérez Calleja, Mario Zavaleta, Brian Mendia, and Mauricio Tellez. Dancing will be performed by Ballet Folklórico Bailadores de Bronce. To learn more about the Bus Shelter Mural Program, visit kingcounty.gov/metro/ShelterMurals.
Seattle/King County Clinic April 24–27 at Seattle Center
 On April 24-27, Seattle/King County Clinic will be providing FREE dental, vision, medical, and social services at Seattle Center to anyone who struggles to afford or access healthcare. No ID or proof of income, insurance, or immigration status is required to receive services. Interpreters will be available, and you do not need to be a resident of Seattle or King County to receive services. A limited number of admission tickets will be handed out each day starting at 5:30 am at Fisher Pavilion on a first come, first served basis. For more information, please visit seattlecenter.org/patients.
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program Now Open!
Click on the image above to launch the SFMNP application!
The 2025 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) enrollment is now open! This one-time benefit provides low-income seniors with an $80 card to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets in King County.
✅ Who’s Eligible?
* 60 years or older (Native American/Alaska Native: 55+) by June 15, 2025
* King County resident
* Low-Income (details in the link)
📅 When Can You Apply?
April 7 – May 9, 2025
📌 You can apply in two ways:
a) Complete the online application: AgingKingCounty.org/SFMNP
b) Paper application and information is available in 14 languages. Download and mail your application by May 9. (visit link above)
💳 When Will I Receive My Card?
* Selected applicants will receive their card by mail in June.
*If you need help, call Community Living Connections: 844-348-5464
Let’s make fresh, local produce more accessible to seniors in our community!
22nd Annual White Center Khmer New Year Street Festival
Follow Cambodian Cultural Alliance WA's Instagram for more information.
White Center is home to one of Washington State's largest Cambodian communities—each year, they celebrate Cambodian New Year at the end of the harvest season. This street festival includes a monk's blessing and food offering, live Khmer music, a fashion show, and a variety of performances. Stick around for an open dance floor, traditional games, and delicious food vendors
Join the King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission
 The Office of Equity and Social Justice and King County Council are currently recruiting for multiple vacant positions on the King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission (KCIRC).
Interested community members can access application materials on the KCIRC website, apply online, or by email. Applicants may include the following documents in support of their application but are not required:
- Resume
- Letter of Interest
- Professional Certificates or Licenses
Selected applicants must submit ten (10) endorsement signatures and two (2) letters of recommendation online or via email at kcirc@kingcounty.gov within 4 weeks of being notified. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. Please contact KCIRC staff liaisons at kcirc@kingcounty.gov if you have any questions or need language or technical assistance.
 Check-out this opportunity to serve on the King County Citizens’ Election Oversight Committee (CEOC). The CEOC is a 16-member committee of volunteers who have interest or expertise in elections. They produce an annual report to the King County Council on their observations, findings, and recommendations on election-related matters. Currently, the CEOC has the following open positions:
- Representative from a nonpartisan organization active in King County that evaluates candidates and ballot measures, such as the Municipal League.
- Representative from a nonpartisan organization active in King County that provides elections information to the public, such as the League of Women Voters.
- Representative from the Spanish-speaking community.
- Representative of registered King County voters.
- One representative from the Vietnamese-speaking community.
- One representative from a nonpartisan organization in King County that promotes equality and the advancement of Black or African Americans, such as the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle.
The applications are requested to be submitted by May 2nd. For more information on how to apply, please visit www.kingcounty.gov/ceoc.
King County Parks Youth Conservation Corps
The summer 2025 Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) application is now open! There are two cohort locations this summer, one in White Center and one in Skyway. The YCC aims to build pathways for a new generation of park and environmental leaders through a paid 6-week summer internship program (Tuesday, July 8 – Thursday, August 14).
Though restoration projects in Parks is an exciting focus of the program, more than half of the internship experience involves workshops, field trips, and creative projects that explore important environmental topics. Find out more information at https://kcpyouthcorps.org/.
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Applications due by May 23rd.
The King County Flood Control District announced the availability of at least $13 million in grant funding for projects that reduce the impact of flooding. These grants are for small and medium local flood reduction projects that address existing or potential flooding. Eligible applicants include homeowner associations, schools, non-profits, tribes, cities and towns, and King County agencies.
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Join the information session on April 16th, 2-3:30 pm (Spanish translation will be available.)
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; pre-screening process by March 25th.
Trueblood Short-term Housing RFP
Applications due by April 18th at 2 pm.
PSE Foundation Competitive Grant Program 2025 targets Emergency and Disaster Relief – specifically Preparedness and Response.
Applications due by April 20th at 2 pm.
Youth and Amateur Sports Grants (YASG)
Applications due by May 5th at 9 am.
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Over $3 million in available funding. Awards up to $100,000 for programs proposals and up to $250,000 for construction proposals.
Eligible Applicants
- City or Town
- Nonprofit organization
- Tribal organization
- Fiscally-sponsored organization
- Public School Districts
- Park Districts
- Public Agencies
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Best Starts for Kids Prenatal to Five Innovation Fund Request for Proposals
Round 1 Applications due by May 9th at 2 pm.
4Culture Launch Program
Applications due by August 27th at 5 pm.
2025 Bus Ticket Program Rolling Request for Proposals and Requests for Additional Allocation for Current Awardees
Applications due by September 2nd at 5 pm.
Sound Transit 2026 Service Plan – Phase One Survey
We want to hear from you! From April 7–21, the Phase One Survey will seek rider feedback on service usage and future service preferences for the 2026 Service Plan.
The feedback we receive from the Phase One Survey will guide the development of our Phase Two service concepts that we will present to the public for feedback this June and July.
Visit soundtransit.org/2026serviceplan to learn more!
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Triangle Route Schedule Update Project
WSF is currently updating the broken 2-boat schedule on the Triangle route, and you can preview and add your input now.
This is the community’s opportunity to speak up and speak out to ensure that the balance of service provided takes our completely ferry-dependent status carefully into consideration, and islanders have the options we need to reach medical care, work, and access community and culture on the mainland.
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Discover African Art and Culture at TASWIRA Gallery
 TASWIRA Gallery, located in Seattle’s Pioneer Square, is a cultural hub founded by Avery Barnes, a self-taught entrepreneur with Nigerian and European roots. Founded in 2019, TASWIRA started as Washington State’s first African streetwear store and has since evolved into a dynamic gallery showcasing African and African diasporic art. Avery’s passion for African heritage stems from her personal experiences, including volunteering at the Bamburi Women’s Empowerment Center in Kenya.
Beyond the gallery, Avery is dedicated to empowering communities through youth programs, art mentorship, and cultural initiatives. Recognized in Forbes' 30 Under 30 and as a City of Seattle Arts Commissioner, Avery’s vision continues to inspire and enrich Seattle’s cultural scene.
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Thank you for allowing us to represent you on the King County Council!
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