June is Pride Month
 June is here, and with it comes Pride Month – a time to celebrate, to reflect, and to recommit to the fight for LGBTQ+ equality and belonging. Pride did not begin as a parade; it began as a protest, and in this moment, that spirit of resistance feels more relevant than ever. From the rainbow sidewalk we just unveiled in White Center in partnership with White Center Pride, to the work we do every day in the council chamber to protect and invest in all of our communities, I want every LGBTQ+ resident of King County to know: you are seen, you are celebrated, and you are home here. Join WCPride and our family as we turn out and turn up the volume for LGBTQ+ rights on Saturday at White Center Pride – details below!
Sound Transit Board Advances West Seattle Light Rail, and votes YES on 20-year financial plan
 Councilmember Mosqueda alongside Seattle Councilmember Dan Strauss, Tukwila Mayor Thomas McLeod, KC Councilmember Stephanie Fain, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson, and KC Executive Girmay Zahilay.
Last Thursday, West Seattle Light Rail got the YES vote to advance design and move forward! Check out the great coverage by the West Seattle Blog, with details and a timeline for what to expect next. I released the following statement after the Sound Transit Board voted on an updated 20-year financial plan for the agency’s ST3 light rail expansion project. The updated financial plan was required to account for a projected $34.5 billion funding shortfall over the next two decades. As part of the updated 2-year plan, the Sound Transit Board passed a number of amendments aimed at finding cost savings, additional revenue tools, and innovative approaches to design and engineering to ensure we are able to deliver on the full promise of ST3.
“Today’s vote paves the way to bring light rail to West Seattle, to build the spine from Everett to Tacoma, to help advance the infill stations at Graham Street and Boeing Access Road, and this plan commits Sound Transit to ultimately get to Ballard and Issaquah.
For West Seattle, this vote makes it possible to officially initiate early pre-construction work, such as geotechnical testing like drilling to test soil stability for the bridge foundation and contracting with critical engineering and design consultants, laying the groundwork for us to be able to build the promised light rail in the near future. West Seattle light rail expansion is now poised to enter a new phase of project development, made possible by cost savings work done by Sound Transit that has already yielded nearly $2.6 billion in savings while retaining ridership and avoiding impacts on many businesses and residential properties.
The impact of tariffs, inflation, and other cost increases are impacting every capital project across the country—that is not unique. What is unique is the magnitude of the project we are endeavoring to build: ST3 is the largest transit investment in our region’s history. But we are not powerless, and today’s resolution lays out our intention and commitment to use every tool available, including cost-savings design work, additional financing tools, expedited permitting, and more, to make up the gap and fully deliver on the promise of light rail expansion across our region.
Sound Transit’s 20-year financial plan commits to securing additional financial capacity to build the full promise of Sound Transit 3. The underlying bill put forward by the Chair includes funding to get to 100% design on Ballard, and the adopted amendments further solidify Sound Transit’s commitment to fulfilling the ST3 proposal with a transparent process and framework for building light rail to Ballard. Our work will continue to generate greater cost savings and financial support needed to deliver on that commitment. The cost savings work the Sound Transit team has done on the West Seattle plan shows what’s possible when we demand creative thinking and aggressively pursue cost-saving options: properties avoided, ridership retained, and billions saved.”
Labor Summit
 King County has consistently been voted as one of the best places to work in the region and that doesn’t happen without having one of the best workforces. Last week I was proud to join Executive Zahilay, my fellow Councilmembers, and our labor partners to talk about just that – our partnership at this year’s labor summit. When labor has a seat at the table, workers are able to bring their frontline experiences when decisions need to be made. I appreciated hearing from the Executive and his team on how his 4 B’s and desire to have a better more efficient government aligns with supporting the workers of King County. There are still areas of disagreement, but labor relations have moved from a very adversarial place to one of collaboration over the decades. We can get so much further working together and I've found that it is often those closest to problems who are closest to the solutions.
Health, Housing, and Human Services Committee
Today, I chaired the Health, Housing, and Human Services Committee meeting where we focused on some of the critical issues below that impact King County residents. View the agenda and watch the full meeting here.
Public Health Fiscal Update
Chart depicting anticipated public health operating deficits in upcoming years.
This morning we received a briefing on the fiscal outlook for Public Health – Seattle & King County. The picture is challenging: Public Health is anticipated to receive approximately $63.8 million in Medicaid revenue in the 2026-2027 biennium, representing about 10% of the department's entire budget and that revenue is now at serious risk given federal cuts and eligibility changes. As the federal government pulls back funding and shifts costs to states and counties, King County is being asked to do more with less at exactly the moment when our communities need public health services the most. This committee will continue to fight to protect our Public Health department's ability to serve every resident of King County.
Medicaid Retention in King County
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Committee also passed my motion acknowledging receipt of the county's Medicaid Retention Report and the findings demand urgent attention. The federal budget reconciliation bill HR-1 is projected to potentially double the overall uninsured population in King County, with approximately 215,000 working-age adults at risk and an estimated 72,000 likely to lose coverage due to new work verification requirements taking effect in January 2027. This isn't because people won't be eligible – in Washington, 95% of adults on Medicaid already work, are in school, provide care, or live with illness or disability. The new documentation requirements are deliberately burdensome, designed to push people off coverage even when they qualify. Immigrants face additional harm, with refugees, asylees, and other non-citizen adults set to lose Medicaid eligibility entirely in October 2026. King County's Public Health department has developed a phased strategy to fight back by expanding outreach, training more Health Insurance Navigators, and building coalitions to keep people enrolled. King County will not wait passively while the federal government dismantles the health care safety net. Today's conversation made clear that our HHHS Committee is deeply committed to getting more information, investing in our public health system, and supporting the workers who help get people enrolled in every coverage option they are eligible for.
MLK Jr. Service Award
Click on the image above to watch a short video about Makini.
It was an honor to recognize Makini Howell as the MLK Service Award Recipient for District 8 at this week's King County Council meeting. Makini is a true powerhouse – a restaurateur who revolutionized what vegan and vegetarian cuisine could be, a small business owner whose voice helped shape the conversation around increasing the minimum wage in Seattle and across Washington State through her leadership with the Main Street Alliance, and a model employer who provides on-site childcare at Makini's Tofu in Georgetown, opening the doors of employment to working parents who might otherwise have been left out. Her policy work has helped workers win sick and safe leave and earn enough to put healthy food on their tables, and her vision extends far into the future – building sustainable food systems that will nourish not just this generation, but those that follow. As Dr. King asked, "What are you doing for others?" – Makini Howell has answered that question every single day, connecting people through healthy plant-based food and dedicating her life to economic and social justice in our communities. Congratulations, Makini!
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CM Mosqueda and Chef Makini Howell at Plum Bistro a decade ago!
Celebrating Makini Howell today with her mother Niombi, and representatives of Main Street Alliance, Teamsters, Drivers Union, Budget and Policy Center, and Mom’s Rising!
Gun Violence Awareness Day
 Today, Council and Executive Zahilay proclaimed June 5, 2026 as Gun Violence Awareness Day in King County – a recognition that gun violence is a public health crisis demanding a coordinated, community-centered response. The need is urgent: between 2020 and 2024, King County residents aged 18-24 experienced twice the firearm-related death rate compared to the overall county population, and gun violence remains the leading cause of death among children and teens nationwide. There is reason for hope – King County Emergency Medical Services reported an 18% decrease in firearm injuries from 2024 to 2025, a testament to the power of prevention, community outreach, and cross-sector partnerships. We honor all those who have lost their lives to gun violence, and we stand with the survivors and families who carry the lasting weight of these losses. No single entity can solve this alone, and all of us have a role to play in building safer, healthier communities for everyone in King County.
Tomorrow, June 3rd, Melanie Kray from my team will be offering brief remarks on my behalf at a White Center gun lockbox giveaway hosted by King County Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention in partnership with the Alliance for Gun Responsibility and Progress Pushers. If you aren’t able to attend, there are also a number of events being held on June 5th. Check out the event flyers on their social media @kingcountyrgv!
Mental Health Awareness Month
 Last week, Council proclaimed May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month – a reminder that behavioral health and substance use issues are medical conditions that touch nearly every family in King County, whether directly or through someone we love. From anxiety and depression to addiction and neurodivergence, these are conditions that deserve the same compassion, support, and access to care as any other health issue – and yet profound stigma continues to prevent too many people from seeking the help they need. I am proud to join my colleagues in calling on every corner of our community – government, businesses, schools, health care providers, and neighbors – to help create a King County where open conversations about mental health are never stigmatized, and where everyone can feel comfortable reaching out for support.
Jewish American Heritage Month
 Council also proclaimed May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month – a recognition of the generations of Jewish Americans who have helped shape our nation's civic, economic, and cultural life since the first Jewish immigrants arrived on these shores in 1654. The Jewish American story is one of resilience, faith, and hope in the face of adversity, and it is woven deeply into the fabric of who we are as a nation – through contributions in education, the arts, science, labor movements, public service, and so much more. This proclamation also carries a sobering reminder: Jewish Americans are currently experiencing the highest levels of anti-Jewish violence, intimidation, and harassment in nearly 50 years. I am proud to join my colleagues in celebrating the richness of Jewish culture and community this month, while reaffirming that King County will always stand against antisemitism and for the safety, belonging, and dignity of our Jewish neighbors.
White Center "Glow Up"
Read more about it by clicking on the image above!
White Center had its "Glow Up" moment on May 21st with lights and rainbow-painted sidewalks! Team Teresa gathered with Department of Local Services and the community during the monthly Rat City Art Walk to mark the completion of several major infrastructure projects, headlined by the activation of the "Illuminate White Center" decorative café-style lights. Stretching along 16th Avenue SW from SW Roxbury Street to SW 100th Street, this was a perfect demonstration of a community-driven idea funded through King County's Participatory Budgeting program! The evening also celebrated the completion of a multi-year pedestrian safety and traffic calming project that reduced 16th Avenue SW from four lanes to two, adding a center turn lane, bicycle lanes in both directions, and amazingly increased available parking from 43 to 46 spaces. When we invest in communities like White Center – communities that have too often been overlooked – this is what it looks like: safer streets, brighter nights, and a neighborhood that knows it is seen, valued, and welcome.
Explorer West Middle School
Staff member, Chris Lampkin (far left) at Explorer West Middle School
Team Teresa was honored to be able to participate in a panel evaluating the presentations of 8th graders at Explorer West Middle School as these students shared their ideas to tackle some of our region’s biggest problems like homelessness, ending animal testing, banning the use of glyphosate, and preventing the sharing of DoL data with ICE. These presentations took place over two days and other panelists included Rep. Brianna Thomas (LD 34), Senator Emily Alvarado (LD 34) and Seattle City Councilmember Rob Saka (D1). The students showed incredible problemsolving and even went out into the community to talk with residents about the issues they cared about. It is always heartening to see our young people setting out to change the world for the better.
Dockton Marina Park Community Celebration
Click on the image above to learn more!
Celebrate the newly upgraded Dockton Park & Marina on Vashon Island!
The marina was completely renovated over the last 4 years through replacing the breakwater, installing new finger piers, upgrading the boat ramp dock, and rebuilding the floating dock for swimming and moorage. We also built a new ship-themed playground with improved ADA accessibility. All this work was funded by the Parks Levy.
Enjoy the new facilities with hands‑on activities led by local groups, from boat tours with the Quartermaster Yacht Club to knot‑tying demonstrations by teen sailors from the Sea Scout Ship Odyssey. You’ll also have opportunities to connect with the Vashon Heritage Museum, Vashon Bird Alliance, and Vashon Nature Center.
Parking is limited, so please consider taking transit, carpooling, biking, walking, sailing or boating to the event!
Gun Violence Awareness Day Lockbox Giveaway
In recognition of National Gun Violence Awareness Day on Friday, June 5th, the King County Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention, Regional Peacekeepers Collective, Alliance for Gun Responsibility, and King County municipal partners are hosting free gun lockbox giveaways at eight locations across King County to raise awareness and provide useful resources to communities.
Each event will feature remarks from community safety experts and local government leaders, gun safety education, and free gun lockbox giveaways. These events are free and open to all, and lockboxes will be distributed while supplies last.
June 3rd in White Center
June 5th in Burien
White Center Pride – June 6th
 From noon to 11pm, come experience a day filled with excitement with over 100 merchant booths, multiple stages of entertainment & drag performances, locally operated beverage gardens, a kids area with a super-slide & bouncy castle, and more!
Make sure to use the hashtag #whitecenterpride to show your support! To donate in support of the event, please visit whitecenterpride.org.
Burien Pride Festival – June 5th-7th
Click on the image above for more information.
Come to Burien for an all-day Street Festival celebrating PRIDE! This marks their 10th Pride Festival!!! This jam-packed event will feature Music, DJs, a Beer Garden, and over 100 vendor booths spread across Burien Town Square Park and the surrounding streets. It’s a family-friendly celebration with a dedicated kids’ area offering fun activities throughout the day. The music will keep you grooving with bands, DJs, and live drag performances!
Free Dental Services in Burien – June 6th
On Saturday June 6th, Para Los Ninos, Public Health – Seattle & King County, and Floss Boss are teaming up to provide FREE dental services in Burien. Treatments for urgent dental needs include cleanings, extractions, filings, x-rays, and exams. Adults must reside in King County, not be eligible for Washington Apple Health or Medicaid and meet income guidelines. To see if you are eligible, contact them at 800-756-5437 or kcadp@kingcounty.gov.
CID Summer Activities
 Come out to Hing Hay Park this summer for some FUN, FREE activities! Everyone is welcome, no experience required, and feel free to bring a friend.
2026 Pride Survey
Click the image above to take the survey.
Since 2009, Public Health – Seattle & King County has been conducting surveys at Pride events in the greater Seattle area annually. In 2026, we are partnering with Spokane County health department to learn from our communities and inform sexual health program activities across Washington State. If you are an LGBTQ+/2S Washington state resident, we’d love to hear from you!
DCHS Youth Diversion and Intervention Program
Click on the image above to learn more.
To ensure all young people have equitable opportunities to be happy, healthy, safe, and thriving members of their communities, King County invests in reducing the number of young people in the juvenile legal system and diverting them to community-based resources.
DCHS is seeking to award up to $3 million to providers for community navigation and support to youth ages 11-17 referred by law enforcement to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for involvement in alleged behavior that could result in misdemeanor criminal cases. Services also extend to young people’s families and impacted community members who have experienced harm as a result of the referring incident.
Contracts will start on or around January 1, 2027.
Get Loud, Seattle!
A celebration of music at Slim’s Last Chance
Click on the image above to get tickets
Celebrate after an international sports match in Seattle with an amazing lineup at Slim’s Last Chance in Georgetown!
Seating is first-come, first serve. They have a full kitchen with world-famous chili, burgers, and more, plus ice-cold beer, a full bar, and NA options.
Tickets are not required, but helpful for to know about how many folks to expect (plus you’ll get a reminder)! Make sure to show up early to get a great spot. See you there!
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Thank you for allowing us to represent you on the King County Council!
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