I am deeply saddened to learn about the terrible shooting that took place at a homelessness encampment in south Seattle. My condolences go to the families and friends of the victims. We don’t yet know everything about the circumstances around the shooting. What we do know is that this tragedy happened under conditions of homelessness, […]

For months now, much of 23rd Avenue has been blocked off, under construction. Large construction projects like this one very often lead to much-needed street improvements, and are beneficial to the entire community in the long run. But impacts during construction differ. Big businesses have the cash reserves to stay afloat and weather a loss of business […]

On January 19, 2016, representatives of the Mayor’s office came and spoke to Council about their “Encampment Removal Protocols” – a euphemistic expression for escalating sweeps of homeless encampments. The city is demolishing unauthorized encampments, evicting people from the only shelter they can find. Where should these Seattleites go? Shelters are full, and there is a Civil State of Emergency […]

On January 12, 2016, we held the first meeting of the Energy and Environment Committee. The committee, in my view, is mandated with providing leadership on environmental policy and energy and allied technology policy. Below are my introductory remarks, regarding the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris and the beginning of the trial of courageous climate activists […]

On January 11, 2016, the Council voted on whether to grant an alley vacation for the development of a new Amazon building, despite strong opposition from workers and community members. I was the only Councilmember to vote against rubber-stamping this decision. I advocated for the Council to first hold Amazon accountable to community concerns and for […]

On January 4, 2016, hundreds of people packed City Hall to celebrate our victories and demand bold action from our newly inaugurated City Council. It’s clear that an overwhelming majority of working people in Seattle support taxing the rich, fair scheduling and rent control, and 12 weeks of paid parental leave for all workers. For […]