 Dear King County District 2 Resident,
This is your friendly neighborhood King County Councilmember, Girmay Zahilay.
Below are some news, updates, and events that I think you’ll find useful. This email will provide you a snapshot of recent updates. For a more comprehensive list of my office’s legislation and priorities, check out my King County website, where I list what we’ve been working on over the past year. You can also follow my Facebook and Twitter for real-time updates on all our work!
Announcements & Policy Updates
Council approves Parks Levy renewal, sends to voters for August ballot
Last Tuesday, the King Council approved legislation to send the Parks Levy renewal to the voters on the August ballot. The levy provides all funding to operate and maintain King County’s regional and local parks, trails and open space system.
The six-year levy provides funding for the following projects, programs and entities:
- King County Parks capital, operations, and maintenance
- Regional Trail Expansion, including the Interurban Trail, Eastrail, Green River Trail, Soos Creek Trail, Green Loop Trail, and the Lake to Sound Trail in South King County
- Open Space Land Conservation, in support of the County’s Land Conservation Initiative
- Playgrounds and active use park improvements and expansion
- King County cities, towns, and park districts
- Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Aquarium, and Pacific Science Center
- Swimming Pools and other Water Access
- Healthy Communities and Parks Grants and Community Partnership Grants
- Ballfield and Sport Court improvements, preservation, and grants
- Climate Resilience, Environmental Stewardship, and Fish Passage improvements
For more info, read the press release on the vote here.
Congratulations to Acting Executive Shannon Braddock!
With the recent appointment of Dow Constantine to CEO of Sound Transit, the Council moved swiftly to appoint Shannon Braddock as Acting Executive of the County. I'm proud to stand with my colleagues in unanimously voting acting Executive Braddock in, and I'm looking forward to working with her on behalf of the people of King County.
Funding the Right of Way Encampment Resolution Program
As we continue to face a severe homelessness crisis in our county, thousands are living unsheltered on any given night, and many are living in dangerous, unsuitable locations like freeway embankments and overpasses. The state Right of Way Encampment Resolution Program (ROW ERP) is one of the only tools tailored to safely and humanely address homelessness in these high-risk areas, but the program is currently facing potential cuts from the state.
Earlier this week, I joined fellow local electeds, service providers, and more in calling for the state to restore funding to this program. ROW ERP is one of the most effective solutions to the most complex and intractable problems our state and region face, and we must prioritize what works. Since 2022, in King County alone, ROW ERP has resolved 21 encampment sites and helped house 479 individuals, for a success rate of 91% of those contacted.
Instead of just pushing people from one place to another, this program actually connects people to housing, health care, recovery support, and job pathways—and it works. Ending this funding would mean going backward. It would mean leaving people outside, delaying public safety projects, and losing trust in government. We must continue funding this program.
For more, read the Seattle Times piece here or watch the West Seattle Blog's video of the press conference here.
Ventures' Champion for Local Enterprise Award
I'm honored and humbled to say that our office received Ventures' 2025 Champion for Local Enterprise Award! Ventures is a nonprofit that supports and uplifts small business owners from underrepresented communities. They're a big driving force behind many of businesses that make up the vibrant fabric of our county, including District 2 gems like Chu Minh Tofu and That Brown Girl Cooks.
Small business ownership opens doors for people to gain independence, financial stability, and community connection, all while uplifting their cultural identities. What Ventures does is so important—it not only provides the resources and support that empower immigrant and refugee entrepreneurs, but it also fosters a sense of belonging and possibility in our communities.
I’m deeply grateful for the impact Ventures has made, and I will continue to support their mission as we work together to build a more inclusive and equitable economy for all.
Learn more about Ventures and the amazing work that they do here.
Remembering Rep. Frank Chopp
Last month, we lost former Rep. Frank Chopp: a fierce advocate, public servant, and dear friend. Frank was the longest serving Speaker of the House in Washington State, and one of the most consequential legislators in our state’s history. His impact on housing and healthcare can be felt in every corner of Washington, especially here in King County. I will always be grateful for his mentorship and wisdom.
Thank you for everything, Frank, and rest in peace. I’m praying for you and your loved ones.
Remembering Senator Ramos
My heart is with my friend and colleague Councilmember Sarah Perry as she mourns the sudden loss of her beloved husband, State Senator Bill Ramos. Bill was a dedicated public servant and a ball of sunshine and amazing energy. His passing is a tremendous loss for all of us who had the honor of knowing him.
To Sarah and the entire family—Joyce and I send our deepest condolences. We are holding you in our hearts during these unimaginable times. We are here for you.
King County invests $412,500 for community priorities identified through participatory budgeting
The King County Department of Local Services (DLS) announced $412,500 in participatory budgeting empowerment grants for eight community projects and programs in East Federal Way, Skyway, and White Center.
These grants will support the construction of community gardens, mental health and grief support, and youth and education programs. In the participatory budgeting vote, community members directed the county to put out requests for proposals in these funding areas. The county recently held a competitive grant process to select awardees.
In Skyway, these are some of the projects that will be receiving DLS funds:
- The planned Black Panther Park in Skyway will receive $50,000 to support construction of a living history space that will share information about the Black Panther Party and the effect it had on Seattle and beyond. The park will have a lending library, food pantry, herb and berry garden, and artwork, and will serve as a monument for generations to come.
- The Pro-Equity Anti-Racism Institute’s Equitable Geospatial Ecosystem Program will receive $80,000 to provide graphical information system (GIS) training for young adults aged 14 to 24 and host a community workshop co-led by program participants. This initiative equips youths with high-demand technical skills and fosters community engagement.
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Guy Talk Interactive Workshops will receive $50,000 to support a transformative program designed to empower young men aged 12 to 24 through weekly sessions, healing circles, and interactive workshops. The initiative focuses on violence prevention, reducing criminalization, and fostering personal growth by offering participants tools for success and self-discovery.
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Young Ladies of Today and Tomorrow will receive $50,000 in support of a mentorship program for girls between the ages of 8 and 18. The goals are to foster leadership, self-confidence, and personal growth by providing meetings that focus on educational enrichment and life skills development.
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Nomad Boxing Club will receive $50,000 for a three-part boxing program, including youth mentorship, girls’ empowerment, and a children’s after-school program that supports physical and mental well-being, social-emotional support, and confidence-building. The goal is to increase access to physical activities for children and youths in Skyway.
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Speak With Purpose will receive $50,000 to expand access to their public speaking and leadership program to two additional schools in the Skyway area. This project will empower students to express themselves and lead with confidence.
For more info and to see the full list of funded projects, read the press release here.
King County’s First Crisis Care Center Coming in Summer 2025
King County is taking a major step in expanding behavioral health crisis care! As part of the Crisis Care Centers Implementation Plan that I championed, the Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) has selected Connections Health Solutions to operate the county’s first Crisis Care Center in Kirkland, set to open in summer 2025.
This center, located in the North Crisis Response Zone, will provide 24/7 behavioral health care, offering an alternative to emergency rooms or police intervention. The award includes $39.1 million for capital costs and $2 million for workforce development, with additional funding for operations.
This is the first step toward establishing a countywide network of five crisis care centers, ensuring people in crisis have a safe place to go for mental health and substance use services. The first round of proposals for additional centers is open, with selections for up to two more sites expected later this year. I’m proud of the work we’ve done to make this happen, and grateful to everyone who helped make this momentous occasion possible.
Devastating Hit and Run on MLK Way
On Friday, April 18th, a devastating hit and run on Martin Luther King Jr. Way South and South Alaska Street killed Min Huang and injured her husband. I’m heartbroken over this tragedy that took place in our community. To the husband and daughter of the woman who was taken from us far too soon, I want you to know that we’re holding you close in our hearts. While nothing can undo what’s happened, I hope you feel the love surrounding you from every corner of this neighborhood. In the days ahead, we’ll walk beside you—with compassion, with care, and with the strength of a community that doesn’t let its own grieve alone.
If anyone has information on this accident, please contact Seattle's Traffic Collision Investigation Squad at 206-684-8923. Learn more about how to support the family here.
Recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Khmer Rouge Genocide
April 17th, 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Khmer Rouge genocide, which killed nearly 2 million people in Cambodia. The legacy of trauma and displacement caused by the Khmer Rouge still resonates throughout the community and diaspora to this day, especially here in King County, which has one of the largest Cambodian American communities in the country.
As we reflect on this tragic legacy, we recommit ourselves here and everywhere to the preservation of history, the fight for justice, and the journey toward collective healing.
Celebrating Vaisakhi
Happy Vaisakhi! Each year in mid-April, communities across the country come together to celebrate Vaisakhi, a vibrant and meaningful festival observed by Sikhs and Hindus around the world. For Sikhs, Vaisakhi marks the historic founding of the Khalsa in 1699, symbolizing courage, unity, and spiritual devotion. As families gather for prayer, music, processions, and shared meals, Vaisakhi is a powerful reminder of the richness of our county’s cultural and religious diversity. We honor the contributions of Sikh and South Asian communities and join in celebrating their heritage and traditions.
Touring Eastrail
Earlier this month, I had the amazing opportunity to tour Eastrail! Thank you to everyone who took the time to walk me through its progress. This growing 42-mile trail is creating vital connections between communities, giving people more ways to walk, bike, and roll across our region.
A well-connected trail network isn’t just good for transportation—it improves physical and mental health, strengthens communities, protects pedestrians, and helps our climate. I’m especially interested in making sure we extend these connections to South King County and beyond so more people benefit. I truly appreciate the work being done to bring this vision to life.
Rainier Beach Dominates State Tournament to Capture 10th Title
I'm thrilled to celebrate an incredible achievement right here in District 2: the Rainier Beach High School boys basketball team has captured their 10th state title! In a dominant 68-48 victory over Edmonds-Woodway at the Tacoma Dome, the Vikings showcased not only athletic excellence but the unshakable spirit of our community. Coach Mike Bethea—a living legend in our district—earned his ninth championship title with this win. This marks Rainier Beach’s first state title since 2019, and it's a powerful reminder of the talent, teamwork, and heart that defines our youth.
Please join me in congratulating these student-athletes, their coaches, families, and the entire Rainier Beach community. You continue to make us proud. Go Vikings!
Read the full article in the Seattle Medium here.
Four Amigos Beloved Community Complex
Congratulations to our friends at El Centro de la Raza for the ribbon cutting of the Four Amigos Beloved Community complex! This milestone marks a new chapter for our community and adds more affordable housing options for our neighbors. The Four Amigos Beloved Community honors four civil rights leaders: Councilmember Larry Gossett, Bob Santos, Roberto Maestas, and Bernie Whitebear.
This mixed-use housing complex, located in Columbia City, is the culmination of years of hard work, advocacy, and collaboration with government, community organizations, businesses, and local leaders.
The Four Amigos Beloved Community provides our community with:
- 87 units of affordable housing
- Four early learning classrooms at the José Martí Child Development Center
- A vibrant worship space at Church of Hope
King County has an urgent need for more affordable housing options. The Four Amigos Beloved Community complex stands as a critical haven for our neighbors facing housing instability in their lives.
We are thankful for El Centro de la Raza and their commitment to ensuring that everyone in our county has the opportunity to thrive! Learn more at liveatfouramigos.com
Southeast Seattle Senior Center Visit
Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting the Southeast Seattle Senior Center. We had meaningful conversations about how King County can better serve our older adults—from improving responsiveness of local government, to tenants rights, and making sure seniors can age in place with dignity and support.
Thank you to everyone who shared their stories and ideas with me. I’m looking forward to continuing this dialogue and working together to build a better region for all generations.
Trans Day of Visibility
On March 31st, the County recognized Trans Day of Visibility—a time to celebrate and uplift trans voices while recognizing the ongoing fight for equality. Trans lives are not up for debate. They are not talking points. They are not distractions. They are not bargaining chips in a broken political system. They are human. They are artists, parents, healers, builders, and leaders. They deserve safety, dignity, and joy—not someday, but right now.
Let’s honor and support our trans community today and every day.
West Point Wastewater Treatment Plant Tour
Ever wonder what happens after you flush your toilet? The waste doesn’t just disappear—it goes on a long journey through underground pipes and sewer systems until it reaches a wastewater treatment plant like West Point. Earlier this month, I toured King County’s West Point Wastewater Treatment Plant and got an inside look at what happens next. This facility processes tens of millions of gallons of wastewater every day, using advanced technology and dedicated workers to clean and treat what we flush away—keeping our waterways safe and our environment healthy. From filtering out solids, to disinfecting water, to managing biosolids and storm overflow, this place is a marvel of science, engineering, and human effort. And it's all happening quietly behind the scenes so the rest of us can go about our lives.
I'm incredibly grateful to the leadership and frontline workers of King County's Wastewater Division—many of whom are represented by Teamsters and SEIU 925—for doing this essential work with skill and care. Your efforts protect public health, preserve Puget Sound, and keep our region running. Thank you for the tour, the lessons, and the work you do every single day.
Metro Base Tour
Recently, I had the opportunity to tour Metro’s Atlantic and Central Bases—the behind-the-scenes hubs where our buses go to refuel, get maintained, cleaned, and prepped for service.
These bases are more than just parking lots—they’re complex, high-functioning facilities that support Metro’s roughly 12,000 daily trips. From mechanics ensuring safety, to staff coordinating dispatch and cleaning, it takes a massive and skilled team to power one of the best transit systems in the country.
I’m deeply grateful to the workers and leadership of Metro for your dedication, professionalism, and public service. You’re the reason our communities can count on reliable, sustainable, and equitable transit.
Thank you for the warm welcome and the incredible work you do for King County every single day.
King County Sexual Assault Resource Center’s Be Loud Breakfast
I attended the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center’s Be Loud Breakfast 2025, standing in solidarity with survivors and the incredible advocates working to end sexual violence.
The King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC) provides vital, compassionate support to survivors of sexual assault and their families through 24/7 crisis response, trauma-informed therapy, legal advocacy, and prevention education—empowering individuals and strengthening our community every step of the way.
Thank you to KCSARC for your incredible work and all the speakers who made it a powerful program.
MAPS Interfaith Iftar
Last month, I had a wonderful evening at the MAPS Interfaith Iftar 2025, joining community members from all backgrounds to break bread, build bridges, and celebrate the spirit of Ramadan! It was a heartfelt night of connection and reflection, where the warmth of hospitality and shared values reminded us of the power of unity across faiths.
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.
If you are interested in learning more, King County will be hosting a virtual information sessions on May 8th at 12PM. Registration for the session here.
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
Join Metro’s Access Paratransit Advisory Committee and Transit Advisory Commission!
Metro’s Access Paratransit Advisory Committee (APAC) and the King County Transit Advisory Commission (TAC) are currently recruiting for new members in several districts throughout King County. We encourage those interested to apply now to one of these volunteer advisory groups and help guide Metro’s work. More information can be found in the Metro Matters blog post below.
Read more about these advisory boards here. The recruitment deadline for each is May 12.
Sound Transit to host community-focused safety fair
The At-Grade Crossing Program team is hosting a family-friendly safety fair on April 26 at Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sound Transit is putting on a free family-friendly community safety event on April 26 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. The fair will be sponsored and hosted by Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic near Othello Station.
At the Safety Fair, guests will learn from Sound Transit team members and community partners about ongoing safety enhancements and best practices for staying aware and making safe choices around tracks and trains. Attendees can enjoy interactive safety demonstrations, giveaways, and refreshments. Plus—guests will have the opportunity to meet Seattle Storm mascot Doppler.
The At-Grade Crossing Program was launched in 2021 to enhance safety at designated at-grade crossing locations where tracks and trains intersect on the same level with vehicles and people walking, rolling, and biking. The Program includes safety enhancements and increased safety awareness and education efforts.
To learn more about the Safety Fair, the At-Grade Crossing Program, or to share your crossing experience, visit https://www.soundtransit.org/crossingsafety.
Ventures' Business Basics Course
Ventures will be holding their Business Basics Course soon!
Ventures’ Business Basics Course covers the basics of business marketing, sales, financial management, and operations and is the launchpad to additional services including advanced training, incubation, coaching and capital funding.
Register for a FREE Information session by clicking this link or QR Code: Ventures Business Basics Course Information Session Interest List
Seattle/King County Free Clinic
The Seattle/King County Clinic is returning from April 24-26 at Seattle Center! Anyone can access the clinic and patients are treated on a first come, first served basis. Dental, vision, and medical services are provided free of charge.
All Are Welcome
- The clinic is for people in need who struggle to access and/or afford healthcare.
- Patients do not need ID, proof of income, insurance, or immigration status to receive care.
- Patients do not need to be residents of Seattle or King County.
- Interpreters are available.
How to Get Care
- No advance registration or appointments are available.
- Starting at 5:30 AM, a limited number of admission tickets are distributed on a first come, first served basis (one ticket per person).
- Tickets are distributed in Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center (corner of 2nd Ave N & Lenny Wilkens Way).
- Patients may attend the clinic for multiple days, but must go through the ticket process each day.
Services Offered
- All onsite services are free of charge.
- Patients cannot seek dental and vision care on the same day.
- Dental: Treatment for pain or discomfort, known or suspected cavities, swollen gums, and broken teeth.
- Vision: Vision screening, complete eye exams, prescription eyeglasses. Bring a offical prescription (less than two years old) to skip the eye exam and just get eyeglasses.
- Medical: Primary care, x-rays, mammograms, ultrasounds, select lab tests, immunizations, foot care, dermatology, physical and occupational therapy, acupuncture, nutrition, behavioral health, and more.
- Resources: Social work, help with health insurance, and more.
To learn more, visit https://seattlecenter.org/skcclinic/
Waterfront Park 5k Run and Celebration
There will be a "Meet Me at Waterfront Park 5k" on Saturday, May 31st in preparation for Waterfront Park’s Grand Opening later this summer, with a fun free community celebration after! Register for the run here.
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.
Youth and Amateur Sports Grants Now Open!
Youth and Amateur Sports Grants (YASG) is now accepting applications from April 7 to May 5 at 9 a.m. We have over $3 million in available funding. Awards up to $100,000 for programs proposals and up to $250,000 for construction proposals.
Eligible applicants must be from a:
- City or Town
- Nonprofit or fiscally-sponsored organization
- Tribal organization
- Public School District
- Park District
- Other public agencies
If you have not done so already, you can create an account on the Parks Grants Portal where applications must be filled out and submitted.
The Parks Team is here to help guide you through the application process and have several helpful resources. Bookmark the Applicant Resource Folder for easy access to the most up-to-date materials throughout the application process.
Information Session
King County Parks is hosting a Youth and Amateur Sports Grants information session on Tuesday, April 15 (11 a.m. to 12 p.m.): Register on Zoom
Office Hours
Parks staff will be available to answer applicant questions during office hours on Wednesdays from April 9 to April 30, 12 to 12:45 p.m. (Download the calendar invitation or join a meeting in progress.)
4Culture’s New Launch Grant Program
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.
Interested? Join 4Culture at an upcoming info session to learn more about how to apply for Launch funding! All sessions are free and open to the public.
Wednesday, April 30, 2025, 12:00PM–1:00PM
Location: Online
Thursday, May 1, 2025, 5:00PM–6:00PM
Location: Nepantla Cultural Arts Gallery
Register for an Info Session
If you have any questions about the Launch Program, visit 4Culture’s website or contact Launch Program Manager Casey Moser ([email protected]).
VSHSL SE 7: Vets Engaged Funding Opportunity
A request for proposals for SE 7: Vets Engaged is open, with funding from the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy (VSHSL).
VSHSL seeks to fund entities to convene community-building events and activities that increase social engagement and connection for veterans, military servicemembers, and their respective families. The Vets Engaged program strives to reduce veterans' feelings of isolation by providing socialization opportunities for them and their families, to help address the inequities they may face while creatively building community.
Available funding: Organizations may apply for small short-term grants at set amounts of $10,000, $15,000, and $20,000 Investment period: Rolling application submission with set closing and review dates throughout the year Questions: Contact Katie Mahoney at [email protected] Applications due:
- Submit by 2pm May 30, 2025 for projected award start date of August 1, 2025
Application can be found here.
Sessions to help federal employees impacted by layoffs access benefits and reemployment resources
Session Topics:
- 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.
These sessions are a collaboration between state and local agencies, including the Employment Security Department, WorkSource, Local Workforce Boards, WA Health Benefit Exchange, WA State Community & Technical Colleges, and the Washington State Labor Council.
Registration Details:
Sessions are free and open to all impacted employees. Please see registration links below:
📅 April 30, 2025 | 10 AM – 12 PM PDT Register Here
📅 May 29, 2025 | 10 AM – 12 PM PDT Register Here
Community Climate Resilience Grant Program
Grant applications are open now for the 2025-2026 Community Climate Resilience (CCR) Grant Program! The program is meant to serve as a resource for frontline communities to develop new or expand on existing community-based climate resilience projects. Projects may center around community capacity development, community health and emergency preparedness, food systems and security, housing security and anti-displacement, energy justice and utilities, or heat mitigation.
Learn more and apply here.
#ReachOut for Free Confidential Mental Health Support – Call or Text 988
Youth and families can access immediate, confidential mental health support through the 988 Hotline. Whether you're going through a tough time or just need someone to talk to, help is only one call or text away. The 988 Hotline is available 24/7 to provide free support whenever you need it.
Save the number 988 and share it with friends—you never know when it could make a difference.
Learn more about the 988 Hotline at 988lifeline.org.
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
[email protected]
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