Hundreds Turn Out for Last Seattle Growth Plan Hearing
More than 200 testifiers weighed in on the Comprehensive Plan and dozens of proposed amendments ahead of planned votes this week. The topics of neighborhood centers, tree retention, and social housing dominated the hourslong hearing.
Sunday Video: Harrell and Wilson Spar in First Post-Primary Mayoral Debate
Seeking to fend off progressive challenger Katie Wilson, Mayor Bruce Harrell took a combative tone in the first debate of the general election season, recently aired by Seattle Channel's City Inside Out. Harrell frequently attacked and spoke over his opponent, hoping to land a punch that could shake up the race, which Wilson has led.
Op-Ed: Will Ethics Commission Hold Harrell Accountable for Campaigning with Public Resources?
Facing a tough election battle, Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has been ramping up his pace of press events and social media posts. A former McGinn staffer shares how ethics officials warned McGinn's office against such activity, which could constitute a misuse of public resources for campaign purposes.
Harrell Announces Reparations Fund, Ramps Up Attacks on Wilson
On Wednesday, Mayor Bruce Harrell rolled out a proposal for an $80 million “anti-gentrification and reparations fund,” and trumpeted $350 million in housing investments he aims to make in 2026. He also ramped up attacks on challenger Katie Wilson and other political opponents, saying "how dare anyone question the compassion of this administration toward people who are underrepresented."
Seattle Council Greenlights Police Surveillance Expansion, Ignoring Community Objections
This week, the Seattle City Council took a controversial 7-2 vote to greatly expand the Seattle Police Department’s surveillance pilot program, as proposed by Mayor Bruce Harrell. Public comment was overwhelmingly against the idea, and progressive candidates also criticized the move.
Op-Ed: Shilpa Prem Is the Best Choice for Kirkland Council
Kirkland Councilmember Penny Sweet makes the case for why Shilpa Prem should be her successor on Council. The Urbanist Elections Committee agreed and endorsed Prem, too.
Seattle Community Councils Push Against Restoring Neighborhood Growth Centers
Neighborhood groups are pushing back on additional density in Wallingford, West Seattle, and Queen Anne. An amendment from Alexis Mercedes Rinck to restore eight growth centers dropped from the One Seattle Comprehensive Plan at an earlier stage is front-and-center.
Federal Judge Ends Consent Decree Oversight of Seattle Police Department
On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge James Robart granted the motion to terminate Seattle’s consent decree, ending a saga of federal police oversight that began 15 years ago. Community safety advocates say issues remain at the Seattle Police Department and more reforms are needed.