 Today marks the 100th day of Trump’s second term, and the impact on our communities has already been brutal. From slashing federal funding for housing, healthcare, education, and emergency services to cutting jobs – his actions are ripping away the support systems that so many depend on. King County alone has already lost millions in funding, and over 200 federal jobs based in our region are gone. It’s not just dollars at stake – it’s people’s lives.
Families are facing an uphill battle: nearly 250 unaccompanied children are being left without legal representation in immigration court. Housing projects are grinding to a halt because of rising construction costs caused by tariff chaos. Mental health and opioid treatment programs are being cut. Emergency housing funds, meant to last until 2030, are running out five years ahead of schedule.
In the two committees that I chair – Board of Health and Health, Housing, and Human Services Committee – we are holding a hearing monthly so that we can expose how the federal threats and cuts are affecting public health, housing access, and ability to care for our communities. Now is the time to act. Speak out. Show up. Send us your examples of how the cuts, threats, hateful rhetoric is affecting your life and we will continue to share those with our Congressional Delegation, members of the press, and within King County government to try to plug holes that the federal government is worsening.
Together we can fight back to protect local values, demand accountability, and ensure that King County remains a place of justice, inclusion, and care for all.
 I joined Spokane City Councilmember Paul Dillon and Vancouver City Councilmember Ty Stober to co-author an op-ed in The Spokesman-Review, we called out the root of this crisis: Washington’s broken, outdated property tax system. For over two decades, the 1% cap on property tax increases has handcuffed cities and counties, preventing local governments from keeping up with inflation and growing community needs. From King County to Spokane to Vancouver, this artificial limit is driving devastating budget deficits that put critical services like housing, parks, infrastructure, and public safety at risk.
We need bold solutions – not budget cuts that hurt the most vulnerable. We called on the Governor to support and the Legislature to lift the arbitrary 1% cap and give communities new progressive revenue options. While that bill did not pass this final weekend of the state legislative session, we must continue to work to allow local leaders to have the revenue tools needed to respond to our growing populations and growing needs. I am thankful for the State House and Senate Legislators who put forward progressive revenue options throughout session that would allow for less cuts and more investment in our communities, and thank them for the public safety funding option that can go to upstream preventative solutions. Overall, we appreciate everything the members did to push some progressive revenue options and help avoid as many cuts as possible. We thank them for their time, support and the many progressive policies they also passed. Happy Sine Die, all.
Revenue: We Can’t Cut Our Way to a Stronger Washington
 Click on the image above to watch my speech.
I’ve been a vocal proponent of new revenue to address the structural shortfall the county has been operating under due to the outdated and short-sighted 1% cap on the growth of county revenue. In many council and committee meetings we have heard of the drastic cuts to county services that would take place if Olympia did not equip ours and other local government with tools to address these types of structural inequities.
I helped organize a letter to lawmakers in Olympia signed by nearly 70 local officials calling for new progressive revenue options. Additionally, throughout session we called for the ability of local governments to have more revenue tools to address our community needs. One of those tools was passed into law this session with the ability to levy a new 1/10th of 1% sales tax that is dedicated to public safety defined broadly to include upstream solutions. I plan to work with my colleagues to carefully craft a measure to stave off many of the drastic cuts that were outlined previously. We’ve made tremendous progress by making investments in solutions that get people the help they need when they are at their most vulnerable. This revenue tool, if crafted correctly, can help ensure these programs are able to operate at a high level by providing the public defenders needed to safeguard people’s rights and that behavioral health professionals are there to provide much needed care – all while preventing some of the most devastating cuts to the services residents in District 8 rely on.
Public safety means upstream investments that keeps people out of our criminal justice system in the first place, and not just languishing on our streets. Public safety investments also mean ensuring we have enough public defenders to adequately serve the accused in a time when the very principal of due process is at risk.
I know that our fight to fix our upside-down tax structure is not over with this legislative session ending and I’m committed to finding solutions that ask the wealthiest in our state to contribute their fair share so that we can have services that support the working families of King County. More to come on this possible revenue tool for upstream community services for broader public safety.
MAY DAY 2025 - Turn out to March!
The intersection of immigrant rights and worker rights is clearer than ever. I’ll be joining with my partners in community and the labor movement and the fight for immigrant rights on May 1st to March for Justice. Find out more information about this year’s event taking place in Seattle here.
This is especially timely as we just read headlines of workers being pulled off the jobsites by ICE here in our state. Timely, also, as yesterday marked Worker Memorial Day – a solemn reminder of the dangers many workers face every day. Right now, workers are navigating a challenging and often frightening landscape. If you're injured on the job, it's important to know that help is available. One of our first responders recently highlighted a valuable program called Work Hardening, which helps injured workers recover and regain their full strength. You can learn more about it here: Approved Work Rehabilitation Providers. Additionally, for the many federal workers who are reeling under the chaos of DOGE, I want to ensure folks know that there are events coming up to help:
Help Sessions for Federal Employees Impacted by Layoffs
- How to file for unemployment benefits and get assistance.
- Options for health care benefits.
- Expanding job skills through training and education programs.
- Career guidance, job search assistance, and other no-cost resources.
Sessions are free and open to all impacted employees. Please see registration links below:
📅 April 30, 2025 | 10 am–12 pm Register Here
📅 May 29, 2025 | 10 am–12 pm Register Here
Remembering Senator Bill Ramos and Sending Love to Councilmember Sarah Perry
We are saddened by the passing of Senator Bill Ramos, husband of our colleague, King County Council Vice Chair Sarah Perry. Bill was a dedicated public servant, a proud Chicano and community advocate, and a kind, joyful presence in every space he entered.
His commitment to equity, the environment, and uplifting underserved voices made a lasting impact across Washington. A tireless advocate, Bill served the 5th Legislative District with integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication. From his early days with the U.S. Forest Service to his recent election to the Washington State Senate, Bill’s life was one of service, community, and love.
As Vice Chair of the Latino Democratic Caucus, I loved that he proudly claimed being Chicano, and I grieve for his family and our state that we lost him far too soon. Our thoughts are with Sarah and the Ramos family during this time. Rest in power Senator Ramos – your legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire us all.
April Board of Health Meeting Highlights
This month’s King County Board of Health meeting covered some big public health topics that impact daily life across the region.
First, Public Health shared updates on improving the food business permitting process – making it easier and quicker for local businesses to get up and running. They will also be hosting another One-on-One Help with Mobile Food Business Permits session to help people get permits for mobile food businesses, such as food trucks, trailers, carts, and pop-ups (tables and booths). Join us to get step-by-step and one-on-one support to start your food business. See the event flyer for more information.
The board also heard from several experts about the growing need for mental health and substance use support for young people. Speakers from YouthCare, Best Starts for Kids, and school-based programs painted a clear picture: the demand for youth services is outpacing current resources, and more support is needed across the board.
Lastly, the Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention gave an update on their efforts to curb gun violence through regional partnerships and community-driven strategies.
The discussions were a reminder that public health is about more than just clinics – it’s about food, safety, and making sure kids have the support they need to thrive.
Protecting a Proven Solution: The Future of ROW ERP
 The Right of Way Encampment Resolution Program (ROW ERP) is a compassionate, statewide initiative addressing unsheltered homelessness on state-owned land. Since 2022, it has helped over 1,700 people – 479 in King County alone – move into housing or temporary lodging, with a high rate of long-term stability.
Funded by the WA State Department of Commerce and operated locally through partners like PDA and Evergreen Treatment Services, ROW ERP provides trauma-informed outreach, wraparound support, and site restoration in partnership with WSDOT and local governments.
We are urged lawmakers to restore the full $65 million per year to keep this highly effective, collaborative program running. ROW ERP is a rare example of broad civic consensus and proven results.
View CM Mosqueda in the News:
As Cuts to Critical Programs Loom, Latest Count Shows Sharp Increase in Homelessness PubliCola
Local officials call for state to continue signature homelessness program The Seattle Times
State Budget Cuts Could Halt Successful Encampment Resolution Program PubliCola
Budget crisis threatens $40M state funding cut to Washington homeless outreach program KOMO News
City and county leaders come to West Seattle to plead for full state funding of a ‘gold standard’ encampment-resolution program West Seattle Blog
Leaders urge WA legislators to restore homeless encampment program funding FOX 13 Seattle
Standing with Locked-Out Mauser Workers
 Last week, I was proud to join Teamsters Local 117 members and labor allies at Mauser Packaging Solutions in Seattle, where workers have been unjustly locked out after standing up for fair wages, affordable healthcare, and safe working conditions.
I marched alongside these courageous workers to demand that Mauser end its lockout and return to the bargaining table in good faith. No one should be forced to risk their health or financial security to earn a living. Workers have shared serious concerns about unsafe conditions inside the facility – from extreme heat and chemical exposure to being denied basic rights like bathroom breaks. These are unacceptable practices that put lives at risk.
Together with Teamsters and the broader labor movement, we sent a clear message: King County stands with working people. I will continue to fight alongside these workers until Mauser respects their dignity, ensures a safe workplace, and offers a fair contract.
Solidarity with the locked-out workers – your fight is our fight.
View CM Mosqueda in the News:
End Mauser Packaging misery The Stand
O'Brien, Seattle Teamsters Rally to End Lockout At Mauser Packaging PR Newswire
Local union to rally in support of locked out steel employees KIRO 7
Mauser locks out Seattle Teamsters The Stand
Councilmember Mosqueda joins Teamsters in march on the boss Teamsters 117
Día 2025 at the Burien Library
 I had the honor of attending the King County Library System’s Día celebration with my daughter on April 26th at the Burien Library. Día, a national celebration introduced by Mexican American author Pat Mora in 1996, aims to help kids and families discover books, world languages, and cultures. At the event, we enjoyed a wonderful series of activities, including a Spanish/English storytime, a musical show, mariachi performances, and crafts. It was a beautiful day of cultural connection and learning for the whole family. Día is such an important celebration, promoting diversity and inclusivity in our libraries and schools, and I’m grateful to have been part of this special occasion. Thank you to all the partners and community members who made this possible!
RapidRide G Line Attracts Major Bus Ridership Gains Along Madison Street
 Nearly six months after I joined King County Metro in launching the RapidRide G Line, the brand new route along Madison Street is already providing big benefits for riders, who are voting with their ORCA card taps and flocking to the bus. On an average weekday in March nearly 5,600 riders jumped on the G Line, according to Metro ridership data. That’s a 55% increase compared to the period after its September launch.
We are grateful that riders are responding positively to this major investment in transit service and infrastructure.
Register now for King County’s “Into the Weeds” webinar
Join the King County Noxious Weed Control Program for their annual weedy workshop series! This 2-part series is free to the public, is worth up to 8 WSDA pesticide applicator education credits (4 per day), and will be held online via Zoom.
Dive into exciting new environmental restoration-focused invasive species management topics each day. Find the agendas, frequently asked questions, and more on the Eventbrite pages linked below. Questions? Contact the program at noxious.weeds@kingcounty.gov.
Register for each day separately (they are different agendas and Zoom links for each day):
►Day 1: May 7, 8 am to 12 pm (Eventbrite)
►Day 2: May 14, 12 to 4 pm (Eventbrite)
Resource Fair for People with Developmental Disabilities and Delays on May 29th
 This is a free community event that welcomes people with developmental disabilities and delays, their families, caregivers, teachers, employees and other interested community members. A variety of workshops and over 50 exhibitors will connect attendees with the people and tools to support their goals in employment, education, building community and more. A room dedicated to the latest technology promises to be fun for people of all ages! Review workshops and exhibitors on the King County website: kingcounty.gov/disabilities-fair.
Enjoy a variety of workshops and over 50 information tables to connect you with the people and tools to support your goals.
When: Thursday, May 29, 2025, 9 am – 3 pm
Where: Microsoft Mixer Commons Building, 15255 NE 40th St, Redmond, WA 98052
Registration: Registration is required for all attendees, regardless of age. Register today at Eventbrite!.
Assistance: For group registration or registration assistance, email Jenna Wolfstone at jenna.wolfstone@kingcounty.gov.
Attendees can plan to stay for the day. Refreshments and snacks are free and will be provided by Microsoft. There is also an on-campus food court located in the building.
Join the Waitlist for the Best Starts for Kids Child Care Subsidy!
 The Best Starts for Kids Child Care Subsidy waitlist is now open! Families can fill out this 5-minute form to be considered for childcare funding available later this year.
Starting later in 2025, some families on the waitlist will be selected through a lottery to complete a full application and, if eligible, to enroll in the program to receive a childcare subsidy. While joining the wait list doesn’t guarantee you a spot in the subsidy, it is essential to join the wait list for a chance to be selected.
Even if you joined the waitlist previously, please fill out the form to update your information. Selections will be made from those families who have provided their information by filling out this form
Families may be eligible for the Best Starts Child Care Subsidy if they:
- Live in King County
- Fall below 85% State Median Income (see table below)
- Are not eligible for the State Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) subsidy program
- Have one or more children (12 or younger)
- Choose a licensed childcare provider
White Center Spring Fling Block Party
 The White Center Block Party, now in its third year, was created in response to a series of fires and vandalism that impacted the heart of the retail district. What started as a grassroots effort to support affected businesses has grown into a vibrant annual celebration of the neighborhood’s strength and culture. This family-friendly event, organized by the White Center Business Alliance (WCBA), showcases the best of local talent, from restaurants and bars to artists, musicians, and makers. All proceeds help cover event costs and support future neighborhood initiatives, with any remaining funds donated to local nonprofits. The first Block Party of 2025, Spring Fling, will take place on May 3rd from 12 pm–7 pm with beer gardens going all night!
8th Annual White Center 5K Walk & Run
 Run a 5K in the White Center neighborhood and support three important community-based organizations helping White Center thrive: White Center Food Bank, YES! Foundation of White Center, and White Center Community Development Association.
Start and finish line at Steve Cox Park. T-shirt and run time included with entry fee.
May 3rd, 9 am–12 pm | $30 per entry, kids 12 and under free | Superhero costumes encouraged!
Tickets: Here Volunteer Registration Info: Here
Human and Civil Rights Commission Recruitment
Help make a difference in King County! The County is launching the Human and Civil Rights Commission, a dedicated group working to advance equity and protect residents from discrimination.
Attend an information session about the application process, timeline, and background on Thursday, May 8th at 12 pm. Register here.
This is your chance to contribute to meaningful change. Applications are open until June 3rd, and stipends are available for commission members.
Union Summer 2025 Paid Internship
 Looking to make a difference and build a career in the labor movement? Union Summer, a paid ($22/hour) internship program run by the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO, is now accepting applications for its 2025 session. Participants will spend six exciting weeks – June 24th to August 2nd – gaining hands-on experience organizing for workers’ rights through education, actions, and on-the-ground training. Interns will take part in rallies, voter registration drives, job-site visits, and more, all while building lasting relationships within the labor community.
Applications are due by Friday, May 9. Learn more and apply here.
Questions? Email unionsummer@wslc.org.
2025 King County Metro Youth Transit Summer Internship
Online applications for Metro's summer internship program are now available through May 11, 2025! The Youth Transit Summer Internship is open to anyone ages 15-18—and those who live, work, study, and/or play in Skyway, Renton or Tukwila are highly encouraged to apply.
Explore transit, sustainability, urban planning and climate justice through hands-on workshops, field trips and youth-led projects. Plus, learn about green careers at Metro and beyond!
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Program dates: July 14 through August 1, Monday–Friday
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Program location: Downtown Renton
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Comcast RISE grants
Two opportunities left to join 4Culture for a conversation about new funding and how your new organization can apply!
Session #4: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 12:00PM–1:00PM Location: Online
Session #5: Thursday, May 1, 2025 5:00PM–6:00PM Location: Nepantla Cultural Arts Gallery *Spanish-language event for Spanish (and English) speakers with translation services available
Register for an Info Session here.
2025 Bus Ticket Program Rolling Request for Proposals and Requests for Additional Allocation for Current Awardees
Applications due by September 2nd at 5 pm.
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 Harborview Medical Center (HMC) is exploring options to implement a district energy system to serve the campus and, possibly, connect to the broader neighborhood – and King County is seeking input to inform the discussion! Energy developers, consultants, owners, operators, and related experts are invited to provide feedback for consideration on a variety of topics, including energy resilience.
King County’s vision is to establish a state-of-the art, phased, scalable district energy system to enhance operational resilience, with a focus on adaptability and reliability for critical healthcare services, with a particular focus on seismic risk.
Part of the vision: achieving decarbonization goals in line with the County’s Strategic Climate Action Plan, meeting building energy and emissions performance standards, and supporting community decarbonization or other community resilience needs.
Learn more about the Request for Information and the Harborview Bond program here. Please submit responses electronically by May 5th at 5 pm.
 King County Wastewater Treatment Division (WTD) is updating their regional wastewater plan to guide long-term investments and navigate the challenges ahead. To guide the regional wastewater plan for future generations, they are developing a vision of where we want our regional wastewater system to be by the year 2100, and are asking for your perspective and input for the future of King County’s clean water.
Clean water impacts all of us: our health, the environment, and the activities we love, such as swimming, boating, and fishing. They need your input to create a vision for the next 75 years of clean water services. Help imagine what’s possible for future generations.
Here are two ways to share your thoughts about King County’s possible Vision for Clean Water:
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Explore the online open house to learn more and participate in the questionnaire: Share your ideas at PublicInput.com/VisionforCleanWater. You can provide your feedback by June 23, 2025.
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Visit them at community events: Connect with their team, ask questions, and share your reactions at upcoming events. Find WTD at upcoming events listed on their website.
Every voice matters in shaping the future of clean water in King County. This is your opportunity to influence how we plan for a sustainable future.
Learn more about the Vision for Clean Water and stay updated on their progress.
First Fridays at Central District Art Walk Returns on May 2nd
 First Fridays at CD Art Walk is back! Join Friday May 2nd from 6 pm to 9 pm at Washington Hall for a night of art, community, and delicious treats from Creative Cafe. This month, they’ll once again be welcoming Creative Justice to showcase their work.
Stop by, vibe with the youth artists, and connect with others in the community. It’s sure to be an inspiring evening filled with creativity and collaboration!
 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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