 Dear King County District 2 Resident,
This is your King County Council Chair, Girmay Zahilay. May has been a month of bold action, urgent advocacy, and powerful community moments. I want to thank you for staying connected and for being part of the work to make King County more safe, healthy, and inclusive.
Here's what we’ve been up to, what’s ahead, and how you can plug in.
Announcements & Policy Updates
Protecting Reproductive Rights
With abortion access under unprecedented attack, even here in Washington, we’re stepping up. The state just made the largest cut to abortion access in its history: $8.5 million gone from the Abortion Access Project. Clinics are stretched thin. Patients are being turned away. And the federal government is freezing critical Title X funding.
That’s why I authored and passed legislation reaffirming King County’s commitment to reproductive freedom and directing our government to continue funding this work. We brought together experts from Planned Parenthood, Cedar River Clinics, and Pro-Choice Washington to share exactly what’s at stake. Our motion passed unanimously and directs King County to begin identifying solutions to help close this dangerous funding gap.
→ Read more here. Watch the full panel here.
Federal Funding Update
Earlier this week, we received an urgent update on the federal budget proposal passed by the U.S. House and backed by the Trump administration. The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” includes major cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, reproductive healthcare, and so many other programs that are critical to many residents in our community.
In response, King County is taking action. In addition to the reproductive healthcare panel I convened earlier this month, I will be organizing another panel on June 3 to hear from Harborview’s leadership and frontline healthcare workers about the potential impact of Medicaid cuts. The county is also pursuing legal challenges and evaluating budget strategies to protect vital services.
The Trump administration’s constant attacks have put critical services at risk. Apart from these cuts in the proposed federal budget, the administration is also imposing unauthorized funding conditions on previously approved grants. The new requirements from the administration would force King County and other local governments to make legal promises that conflict with local laws and values, and make it difficult to serve our residents. These include conditions related to immigration status, health care, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
These federal cuts are part of a troubling trend of both cruelty and confusion coming from this administration, but King County is committed to fighting back. We will continue to serve our communities. Read more about King County’s lawsuits on the withholding of federal funds here, and watch the committee briefing on the federal budget proposal here.
A New King County Executive Has Been Appointed
Earlier this month, I joined my colleagues in appointing Shannon Braddock as our Appointed King County Executive! Executive Braddock has been the Acting Executive for a month prior, and this last step formalizes her position through November.
Executive Braddock has been hard at work on behalf of the people of King County, and it’s an honor to work with her. Read more about her 200-day plan for the county here.
Time to Renew Your Emergency Medical Services
The Medic One and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system in Seattle and King County is one of the best in the world. When someone calls 9-1-1 for a medical emergency, whether it's a heart attack, car crash, or serious injury, they get fast, expert care right away. This happens no matter where they are or what time it is.
This lifesaving system is paid for mainly through a property tax that voters across King County previously approved. That funding is set to expire at the end of this year.
Soon, the County Council, including myself, will decide whether to put a renewal of that funding on the ballot so that voters can choose whether to continue supporting it.
For more about the current work that EMS/Medic One does, click here. For more about the proposed upcoming levy, click here.
Sustaining Community Safety and Justice Services
Last month, state lawmakers gave counties a new tool to help protect essential public safety services. The new law allows King County to adopt a very small sales tax to help fund things like emergency response, gun violence prevention, and court services.
Why does this matter? Because King County is facing a $160 million budget shortfall in the coming years. Without new funding, we risk deep cuts to the public safety services that keep our neighborhoods safe and ensure fairness in our justice system.
I joined our budget chair, CM Rod Dembowski, in calling for swift action from Executive Braddock in bringing forward a proposal for the Council to evaluate. If adopted, the 0.1% sales tax would direct revenues exclusively to King County and be used for a wide range of critical services, including:
- Maintaining staffing levels for prosecutors, public defenders, and sheriff’s deputies
- Sustaining court operations and victims' advocacy services
- Supporting behavioral health programs and diversion initiatives
- Preventing gun violence and domestic violence through early intervention
We’re expecting a proposal from the Executive’s office to be transmitted in June for the Council to review. Stay tuned! Read more here.
Adeline Garcia Community Service Award
The Seattle Indian Health Board does some of the most important and impactful work in our region, so I’m incredibly honored to receive their highest service honor—the Adeline Garcia Community Service Award—alongside giants in our community like Dr. Ben Danielson and Nichole June Maher.
This award recognizes our work together to form a legislative task force to establish the Thunderbird Treatment Center, a bold step toward restoring culturally grounded healing and care.
Thank you to Esther Lucero, Abigail Echo-Hawk, and the entire Seattle Indian Health Board team for your visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to justice. I’m proud to stand with you in this fight.
Redmond Light Rail Opening
On May 10, Eastside residents gained a new way to get around: light rail service now connects Downtown Redmond and Marymoor Village to South Bellevue and the broader regional transit system.
Voters approved this extension in 2016 as part of the Sound Transit 3 ballot measure. The Downtown Redmond and Marymoor Village stations are the first to be completed as part of ST3. These new stations reflect years of planning, investment, and community partnership. They don’t just connect neighborhoods—they support economic growth, expand opportunity, and move us toward a more livable and climate-friendly future. I’m proud to celebrate this achievement and look forward to the continued expansion of our regional transit network.
Read more here.
AANHPI Month
This month, I led the effort to celebrate our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities by proclaiming May as AA & NHPI Month in King County.
Our region thrives with the contributions of AA & NHPI leaders and community members. Today, and every day, we celebrate the rich cultures and histories of our AA & NHPI neighbors across our county. From art and literature to activism and public service, the stories of AA & NHPI people and their resilient communities have left a lasting impact in our shared histories.
Let’s honor, uplift, and amplify the diversity and talent of our AA & NHPI neighbors and leaders!
Jewish Heritage Month
This month, I also led the effort to recognize May as Jewish American Heritage Month in King County. This month honors the rich contributions of Jewish Americans and calls us to stand firmly against rising antisemitism. To our Jewish neighbors: we see you and we value you—not just this month, but every month. Thank you to the rabbis and community leaders who joined us!
May Day Rally
I attended the May Day rally at Cal Anderson Park on the 1st. The sun was out, the energy was strong, and it was a great day to stand in solidarity with working people.
May Day is more than a celebration. It’s a reminder that every right workers have—like fair wages, safe workplaces, and time off—was won through struggle and collective action. And that struggle continues today. From hotel workers to delivery drivers to teachers, people are still fighting for dignity and justice on the job.
I’m proud to show up, speak out, and stand with workers, not just today, but every day.
Washington Conservation Action’s Annual Gala
I had the pleasure of attending Cascade: Building Power, Moving Mountains—Washington Conservation Action’s annual gala. It was inspiring to be in a room full of people who care about healthy communities, a clean environment, and justice for all. I’m grateful for the conversations, the energy, and the shared commitment to meeting this moment together.
Caregivers Coffee
This month, my team attended Caregivers Coffee and engaged in meaningful discussions with the deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind communities.
This event was a collaborative fundraiser to support the invaluable work of five organizations: Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS), The DeafBlind Service Center, Washington Hands & Voices, Hearing Loss Association of America, Washington State Association, and the Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center.
We listened to the experiences of caregivers and community leaders on navigating the hearing world and the barriers to access these communities face daily.
We heard of people not having access to assisted listening devices at local hospitals during emergencies. We heard about the urgent need of ASL interpretation in public government meetings, hospitals, and in the courts. And, we heard of relentless self-advocacy to ensure our communities are more accessible to all.
These conversations were a powerful reminder that accessibility is a right, and enforcing accessibility is about dignity, equity, and justice.
I’m grateful to everyone who shared their truth today, and I’m committed to doing my part to ensure accessibility for all people.
For more information and to learn about the trailblazing panelists visit this website.
PacSci Ignite Luncheon
I had the honor of joining the Pacific Science Center for their annual Ignite Luncheon! PacSci is a gem of our county as an educational resource for children to get hands-on science learning. PacSci has been sparking curiosity and inspiring future scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers for generations. As one of our region’s premier hubs for STEM education, it plays a vital role in making science accessible and exciting for all ages.
As we look to build a more innovative and equitable future, institutions like the Pacific Science Center are essential. Investing in science education today means stronger communities and better opportunities tomorrow.
Let’s continue to support this incredible institution as it lights the path forward for young minds across our region.
Human and Civil Rights Commission Application Launch
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. This is your chance to contribute to meaningful change. Applications are open until June 3rd, and stipends are available for commission members.
Learn more and apply: bit.ly/KCHCRC
Upcoming Events
Annual Fish Fry
Exciting news—plans are already in motion for former State Rep. Dawn Mason’s 30th Annual Community Fish Fry and my 80th Birthday Celebration! Last year, she welcomed over 300 guests, and we’re expecting another amazing, sold-out event. Let’s get ready to put our boots on the ground—western attire is welcome but not required.
Waterfront Park 5k Run and Celebration
There will be a "Meet Me at Waterfront Park 5k" on Sat May 31st below in preparation for Waterfront Park’s Grand Opening later this summer, with a fun free community celebration after! Register for the run here.
Waterfront Shuttle
Supported by the Friends of Waterfront Park, Seattle Historic Waterfront Association, the Alliance for Pioneer Square and funded by the City of Seattle and King County, the Waterfront Shuttle will stop at key locations including the Seattle Center/Space Needle, Pier 69, Pier 56, Pioneer Square, and King Street Station in the International District through mid-September. The shuttle operates daily from 10AM to 8PM. The new Evening Hotel Loop operates daily from 5:50PM to 7:45PM further into the downtown core. The Evening Hotel Loop is separate from the main route. Learn more here: Free Seattle Waterfront Shuttle - Official Page
Friends of Waterfront Park Summer Events
After nearly two decades of dreaming, planning, and community input, Waterfront Park is coming to life–not just as a park, but as a civic space shaped by culture, community, and care. From May through September, Friends of Waterfront Park will host over 270 free public events as part of a season-long celebration leading up to the much-anticipated Grand Opening Celebration in late summer 2025. You’ll see we have a new Waterfront Park Market as well as other markets throughout the summer as well. Learn more here: Friends of Waterfront Park 2025 Summer Programming Announcement
District 2 Community Resource Access Fair
Are you interested in learning more about the resources and services available in your community? Join the King County Department of Community and Human Services on June 18, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Ethiopian Community in Seattle for a Community Resource Access Fair. Connect with local organizations and services funded through the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy, and enjoy an evening of food, refreshments, and community connections.
Resource Access Fair Details
Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Time: 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Location: Ethiopian Community in Seattle
Address: 8323 Rainier Ave S, Suite A, Seattle, WA 98118
Register here: bit.ly/VSHSLResourceAccessFairD2
Call for artists: Transform public spaces through the Utility Box Art Program
The King County Department of Local Services seeks submissions from local artists for artwork to be showcased on public utility boxes in two urban unincorporated areas of King County:
- East Federal Way – 9 Utility Boxes
- Skyway/West Hill – 12 Utility Boxes
Community members chose these two areas to receive funding for this project through King County’s participatory budgeting program. Through this program, community members submit ideas for improvements, projects, programs, or services that would make a positive difference in their neighborhoods and then vote to choose which of these will be funded. Since the participatory budgeting program’s launch in 2021, more than $23 million has been committed to community priorities.
Selected artists will be paid a total of $550 for 1-3 designs once the artwork is print ready for the utility box wraps and the artist contract is signed. The deadline for submissions is 11:59 p.m. on May 30, 2025.
Comcast RISE Small Business Support Program
King County has been selected as one of five regions in the U.S. for Comcast RISE Grants. This means 100 small businesses in King County will receive over $3 million in grants for monetary, marketing, and technology support. Applications are open from May 1-31 at www.ComcastRISE.com, with winners announced in August.
Your local small businesses can learn more about the Comcast RISE program, eligibility requirements, and how to apply by attending free information sessions being held by Comcast RISE community partner organizations, including the Bellevue Chamber, Greater Seattle Business Association (GSBA), Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce, and Tabor 100.
Heat Pumps Available to Qualifying Homes for Low or No Cost
King County's Energize program is expanding to offer free or reduced-cost heat pumps to more homes! Heat pumps are an energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home at a lower cost than traditional heating systems. Find out if you qualify for a free or discounted heat pump or other home improvements covered by King County at an upcoming in-person or online workshop. Visit kingcounty.gov/energize or call 206-263-3003 for more information. Heat pumps are also available for eligible family home child cares.
The Energize program supports public health & climate resilience in frontline communities. It aims to support areas that disproportionately face the impacts of extreme heat, and that have dealt with worse air quality due to historical environmental injustice. It also reduces emissions and works toward King County's goals on building decarbonization, as laid out in the Strategic Climate Action Plan (SCAP). You can learn more at kingcounty.gov/climate
Schedule Mobile Health Services with Care-a-Van
Did you know that organizations can request free mobile health services with the Washington State Department of Health’s Care-a-Van? Care-a-Van serves people across the state and offers COVID-19, flu, and mpox vaccines as well as childhood vaccines, blood pressure screenings, blood glucose screenings, naloxone, and community-based care coordination.
Organizations can submit a request or visit the Washington State Department of Health website to learn more.
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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