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The Seattle City Council recently approved a $2 million dollar loan for the city’s social housing developer. That’s a public development authority that will manage publicly financed housing in the city. It can serve people who make up to 120% of the area median income. Voters overwhelmingly supported the creation of the social housing developer in 2023. They also approved a funding plan for the developer in February that pays for it by putting in place a new tax on companies with high income earners. Next year, the social housing developer is anticipated to receive an estimated $50 million dollars from that tax. In the meantime, Mayor Bruce Harrell requested the $2 million dollar loan, saying the money would go towards keeping the organization running and potentially acquiring new property this year. As of now, the developer doesn’t own any. In its early stages, the developer has been dogged by concerns that it hasn’t proven it can get this money out the door and into housing and questions about whether it’s serving the city’s greatest need by using public money to provide housing for people making more than the median income for the area. Guest: Roberto Jimenez, CEO of Seattle’s Social Housing Developer Links: KUOW: Why someone earning over $100,000 could qualify for Seattle’s affordable housing Seattle Times: Seattle’s social housing developer struggles with ‘growing pains’ Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode we debated the City Council's plans to get tough on graffiti by introducing civil penalties up to $1,500 per violation. The change would make it easier to fine taggers. Erica questioned the council's priorities and aesthetics, and pointed out that graffiti is already a crime or felony (if it costs more than $750 to repair). Sandeep mostly spoke in favor of the new measure, citing studies that find tolerance for graffiti can lead to more crime. But he also questioned the value of going after taggers as opposed to more serious criminals. The discussion also touched on prevailing academic and cultural claims that graffiti tagging operates mostly as a form of multi-ethnic working-class expression or protest. David pointed to the data reported in Publicola that suggests that may not be the case, at least in Seattle, since 85 percent of the people "referred to Ann Davison's office for graffiti violation were white." Erica said the sample size is too small to conclude most taggers are white. Sandeep argued bringing race into the conversation was a needlessly "identitarian" move by the City Council. Another point of contention was a poll that's testing negative messaging against mayoral candidate Katie Wilson. All agreed the test messages claiming Wilson is "divisive" and "angry" missed the mark and were unlikely to be effective. We also discussed earlier progressive campaign tactics that misfired by attempting to link moderate candidates, such as Mayor Bruce Harrell, to Donald Trump. David asked if we'll see more of that messaging from campaigns and advocates in 2025 and, given Trump's unpopularity in Seattle, if it will work? Plus, we delve into John Arthur Wilson's campaign suspension in the race for King County Executive, following harassment allegations. What took him so long? Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comHEARTH Protection: Do not let fear make your world smaller. Thanks to Uncle Ike's pot shop for sponsoring this week's episode! If you want to advertise please contact us at realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice.
Mayor Bruce Harrell has a big to do list. He’s got to fix bridges, build housing, and spruce the place up for the World Cup next year. But to make all this happen, he needs federal dollars... money the city could lose. The Trump administration has used executive orders to cut funding for cities that don’t cooperate with its immigration enforcement agenda. And now, Seattle is fighting back. So we asked the mayor, how does Seattle spend its federal money? And if that money goes away, what can we do to replace it? Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/boomingnotes. Booming is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Our editor is Carol Smith. Our producers are Lucy Soucek and Alec Cowan. Our hosts are Joshua McNichols and Monica Nickelsburg.Support the show: https://kuow.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we're talking taxes—specifically, the new business and occupation (B&O) tax proposal that City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck and Mayor Bruce Harrell dropped, seemingly out of the blue, last week. The tax includes a big exemption that the business community has been seeking for a long time; however, above that threshold—$2 million in gross receipts—the tax will go up substantially. Because B&O taxes are based on gross receipts, they hit high-grossing, low-margin businesses like restaurants and grocery stores hardest, which is one reason they aren't generally considered progressive. In fact, neither of the groups the city set up to come up with new progressive revenue sources recommended a higher B&O tax. So what's really behind this new proposal? The mayor's up for reelection, facing a progressive challenge from Katie Wilson. Seattle's in a budget hole. And supporters of the measure may be taking a gamble that the Chamber won't fight too hard against the tax, because it includes a big tax exemption that small- and medium-size businesses have been seeking for years.With David still away gamboling in parts unnamed, Sandeep and Erica take up these questions and more on this week's episode of Seattle Nice.Our editor is Quinn Waller. Have a question or comment—or want to advertise with us? Send us an email at realseattlenice@gmail.com.Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comHEARTH Protection: Do not let fear make your world smaller. Thanks to Uncle Ike's pot shop for sponsoring this week's episode! If you want to advertise please contact us at realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice.
Seattle's Denny Blaine Park—dubbed “Pervert Park” by critics—is now at the center of a major legal battle. A neighborhood group has filed a motion in King County Superior Court to temporarily shut down the park, citing daily incidents of public sex, drug use, and harassment.The plaintiffs, including LGBTQ+ residents and longtime neighbors, accuse the City and Mayor Bruce Harrell of ignoring repeated warnings and failing to enforce the law—despite promises made as early as 2022. New video evidence, declarations, and disturbing photos submitted to the court reveal the extent of the alleged illegal activity.Now, a judge must decide whether to close the park until the City produces a plan to restore safety. The court hearing is scheduled for July 11.
3pm: Guest - Jim Walsh - State Rep and Chairman of The WA State GOP // Today in History // 1835 - PT Barnum launches career as a showman // Mayor Bruce Harrell attended the first Pier 62 concert on the waterfront yesterday and had a strong political message for the crowd
6pm: Guest - Jim Walsh - State Rep and Chairman of The WA State GOP // Today in History // 1835 - PT Barnum launches career as a showman // Mayor Bruce Harrell attended the first Pier 62 concert on the waterfront yesterday and had a strong political message for the crowd
Seattle's mayor just blamed Christians for getting attacked by Antifa – you can't make this up. A church group obtained a legal permit, held a peaceful rally, and got violently confronted by masked protesters who screamed hate speech for three hours straight. The result? 31 Antifa members arrested, zero Christians arrested, and somehow Mayor Bruce Harrell decides the Christians are the problem. Now the FBI is investigating after Dan Bonino announced they're looking into targeted violence against religious groups. But here's the kicker – Harrell called the churchgoers 'far-right' simply for existing near an LGBTQ+ neighborhood. Since when do taxpayer-funded parks belong exclusively to one community? Are we really at the point where holding a permitted religious event makes you a far-right extremist? The footage speaks for itself: peaceful Christians singing about love while Antifa screams profanities and attacks police. Is anyone surprised our elected officials are more concerned with protecting the narrative than protecting constitutional rights? Like and subscribe if you're tired of politicians twisting reality to fit their agenda.
King County Superior Court ruled that Burien’s public camping ban can stay in place. Former Seattle police chief Adrian Diaz is suing the city over his termination last year. Meanwhile, Mayor Bruce Harrell is once again defending the city’s response (or lack thereof) to attacks on Christians by left-wing thugs. A new outlandish report alleges that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth was wiretapping his staff. // The far-left’s claim that Trump does not abide by due process rights for immigration took a big hit today. It appears King County Assessor John Wilson’s campaign for King County Executive might be coming to an end due to new scandalous allegations. The Federalist’s Mollie Hemingway used her turn the White House’s new media seat to slam the mainstream media. // A new report sheds light on the shocking amount of time students in the Seattle area spend on their phones during the school day.
Seattle's leaders hit a new low when Mayor Bruce Harrell blamed Christian worshippers for "provoking" Antifa's violent attack during a legally permitted worship service. Yes, you read that correctly—the city issued the permit, then blamed the victims when masked agitators showed up to disrupt peaceful prayer.We break down how Seattle's understaffed police force (600-700 officers short) struggled to protect citizens exercising their First Amendment rights at Cal Anderson Park. Meanwhile, the same officials who refuse permits to churches somehow find resources to bail out the very anarchists causing chaos. Is anyone surprised that a city claiming to be "welcoming and inclusive" only extends that courtesy to those who align with their agenda?Why does Seattle protect violent agitators while criminalizing worship? How long before taxpayers demand accountability for this selective law enforcement? The Alliance Defending Freedom is considering a lawsuit—and frankly, it's about time someone held these officials accountable for their constitutional failures.If this kind of government hypocrisy makes your blood boil, smash that subscribe button and share this with everyone who still believes in religious freedom. Don't let them silence the truth.
Headlines. Interviews: Jenny Donnelly, one of the organizers of the Mayday Tour, at Cal Anderson Park in Seattle on Sunday that was met with violence and repudiated by Mayor Bruce Harrell as a deliberate provocation (LGBTQ protesters, Antifa), Bebhinn Horrigan, Parent Life Coordinator, Tacoma Youth for Christ, on ministry to teen moms helping them to navigate adulthood amid daunting challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After Antifa attacked a Christian prayer rally in Seattle over the weekend, Mayor Bruce Harrell blamed the worshippers. Now they're taking their message to City Hall. Pastor Russell Johnson joins us. Local sheriff explains why he went to Governor Ferguson's bogus bill signing. Olympia public school teacher says he “kills fascists.”
A report from the New York Times revealed the outlet had obtained a financial document circulating among Democrat donors about the proposed $20 million effort, which the party hoped would crack the code regarding its flailing support among young men.President Donald Trump said he was pondering shifting $3 billion in federal grants away from Harvard University to trade schools nationwide. The Trump administration is pushing for all federal agencies to cancel or transition away from contracts with Harvard University by June 6. And, the Trump administration is blocking all new student visa interviews in preparation for upcoming social media vetting requirements for all international students. On July 29, 2024, the son of Rwandan migrants had just slaughtered three young girls at a dance studio in Southport, U.K., where they were singing along to Taylor Swift and making friendship bracelets for each other. A 41-year-old professional babysitter named Lucy Connolly put a post on social media - for three and a half hours - calling for mass deportation (and saying that she didn't care if the migrant hotels were burnt down or if the government officials left with the migrants). The U.K. court system decided that Lucy should go to prison for two-and-a-half years. That is, despite having a sick husband and a 12-year-old daughter she cares for. After leftist radicals — some clothed in black and wearing masks — attacked a Christian rally in Seattle, Mayor Bruce Harrell issued a statement in which he condemned the Christian organizers of the event. Mayday USA, the rally's organizer, is described as “a faith-based activist group that calls on Christians to speak out against abortion, child trafficking, and the perceived moral decline of society.”Become a supporter of Tapp into the Truth: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tapp-into-the-truth--556114/support Tapp into the Truth on Rumble. Follow, watch the older shows, and join the live streams.“Remember Pop Rocks? Now, imagine they gave you superpowers.” Please let me introduce you to Energy Rocks! Born from the grit and ambition of a competitive athlete who wanted a better, cleaner way to fuel the body and mind, without the hassle of mixing powders, messy bottles, or caffeine crashes. Energy Rocks is a reimagining of energy into something fun, functional, and fantastically effective. A delicious popping candy energy supplement that delivers a rapid boost of clean energy and focus — anytime, anywhere. No water. No mixing. No bulky bottles. Just open, pop it in your mouth, and get ready to rock. Making any time the right time to “Get in the Zone, One Pop at a Time.”If you love high-quality jerky, you need to check out Jerky Snob. They deliver small-batch, artisan jerky straight to your door every month—no MSG, no nitrates, just premium cuts and bold flavors. You can choose from 2, 4, or 8-bag subscriptions, and every delivery brings something new and delicious. One of my favorite things is the variety—spicy, smoky, sweet, all from different craft makers. It's like a jerky-tasting adventure every month. Plus, it makes an awesome gift! Grab your subscription at tappintofood.com and treat yourself to better jerky. Take This Quiz To Find Out The Best & Worst Foods To Avoid For Joint Pain!Do you wake up in the morning with stiff joints or pain in your hips, back, knees, or elbows? Then, chances are you're feeling the effects of chronic inflammation taking its toll on your body. The good news is that it is NEVER too late to help get this under control. And the best part is certain foods help you do this naturally, without the need for prescription medications.If recent events have proven anything, you need to be as prepared as possible for when things go sideways. You certainly can't count on the government for help. True liberty requires self-reliance. My Patriot SupplyDiversify and protect your hard-earned wealth. Use America's Premiere Conservative Gold Company, Harvard Gold Group. Use promo code TAPP.Support American jobs! Support the show! Get great products at great prices! Go to My Pillow and use promo code TAPP to save! Visit patriotmobile.com or Call (817) 380-9081 to take advantage of a FREE Month of service when you switch using promo code TAPP! Morning Kick is a revolutionary new daily drink from Roundhouse Provisions that combines ultra-potent greens like spirulina and kale with probiotics, prebiotics, collagen, and even ashwagandha. Just mix with water, stir, and enjoy!Follow Tapp into the Truth on Locals Follow Tapp into the Truth on SubstackHero SoapPatriot DepotBlue CoolersKoa CoffeeBrainMDDiamond CBDSauce Bae2nd SkullEinstokBeanstoxBelle IsleMomento AIHoneyFund"Homegrown" Boone's BourbonBlackout Coffee Co.Full Circle Brewing Co.Pasmosa Sangria
Democrats are undeniably the party of violence – and no amount of whataboutism can change that. The Office of Washington State Attorney General is a contradiction. Sheriff calls out activist judges after repeat offender fires on deputies. Looks like Seattle will be stuck with Mayor Bruce Harrell. From prescription costs to tariff talk, lots of news out of the White House.
Learn about the latest in local public affairs in about the time it takes for a coffee break! Brian Callanan of Seattle Channel and David Kroman of the Seattle Times discuss a plan to change the Seattle City Council's requirement that members recuse themselves if they have a financial interest, the passage of new automated traffic camera legislation, a connection between Mayor Bruce Harrell and organized labor, a "new" drug court plan, and a lawsuit from the Seattle Police Department's rank and file officers union... filed against the SPD. If you like this podcast, please support it on Patreon!
Seattle officials would rather spend $500,000 on 'public masturbation deterrent infrastructure' than enforce existing laws at a local park. While perverts freely perform lewd acts in broad daylight at Denny Blaine Park, the city's solution isn't to arrest offenders—it's to build mysterious 'infrastructure' with YOUR tax dollars. Residents have documented dozens of incidents, filed police reports, and are now SUING the city for refusing to protect public spaces. Meanwhile, Mayor Bruce Harrell remains spineless, afraid to upset special interest groups while children and families suffer the consequences of this deliberate negligence. Is this what happens when a city consistently refuses to enforce its own laws? How many more neighborhoods will be abandoned to degeneracy before Seattle officials do their jobs? SUBSCRIBE for more coverage of government failures that mainstream media won't touch, and SHARE this video to expose the absurdity your tax dollars are funding.
First up, why are state lawmakers planning to decimate a successful Seattle homeless program? Then, things get a little cheeky as we discuss the lawsuit over alleged “lewd behavior” at Denny Blaine Park. Plus, Mayor Bruce Harrell throws down the gauntlet with an impromptu push-up contest at a middle school. Is he the "world's best mayor," or just really good at flexing? Tune in and find out! Quinn Waller is our editor. About Seattle Nice It's getting harder and harder to talk about politics, especially if you disagree. Well, screw that. Seattle Nice aims to be the most opinionated and smartest analysis of what's really happening in Seattle politics available in any medium.Uncle Ikes Supports Seattle NiceThanks to Uncle Ikes for support! If you want to advertise, contact us at realseattlenice@gmail.comSend us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comHEARTH Protection: Do not let fear make your world smaller. Support the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice.
In the first hour, Dave Softy Mahler and Dick Fain share their hopes for the Sonics and NBA to return to Seattle soon as we then welcome on Mayor Bruce Harrell to talk about the timeline for more news on the Sonics front and sports in Seattle, then Fun w/ Audio.
What do you call it when Mayor Bruce Harrell raises eyebrows with alleged praise for Trump advisors, a totem pole stands in the way of a park opening, and a tree divides a neighborhood? Just another week in Seattle! In this episode, we dive into Mayor Harrell's comments at a downtown business event, where he appeared to praise tech advisors to Donald J. Trump like Elon Musk. Was it an off-script gaffe, a calculated appeal to the business community, simply a fact about tech innovation leaders, or something else entirely? We discuss the comments, the context and what it might mean for Seattle politics.Then, we explore the battle between historic preservationists and the city over totem poles that has kept the newly renovated Victor Steinbrueck Park shuttered. What should happen to the contested poles? It's a classic Seattle story of process, history, identity, and bureaucracy. Finally, we look at the heated debate over "Grandma Brooks' Cedar" in Ravenna. When is it right to save a tree, and when is it time to let go? We debate the story of conflict between neighbors, activists, and the family of the woman who lived alongside the tree for decades. Our editor is Quinn Waller. Send us a text! Note that we can only respond directly to emails realseattlenice@gmail.comThanks to Uncle Ike's pot shop for sponsoring this week's episode! If you want to advertise please contact us at realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showYour support on Patreon helps pay for editing, production, live events and the unique, hard-hitting local journalism and commentary you hear weekly on Seattle Nice.
State officials give an idea of how many federal employees have lost their jobs, it's the first major cutoff day for bills in the Washington State Legislature, and Mayor Bruce Harrell issued an executive order he hopes will make Light Rail expansion happen faster. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Patricia Murphy. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What’s Trending: A story about Mayor Bruce Harrell’s arrest in Iowa over 20 years ago has come back to light, but is this really a big deal? Mitch McConnell announced his retirement this morning. An ex-staffer calls Sen. John Fetterman “A Useful Idiot for Republicans”. And the USA face off against Canada in a winner-take all hockey game tonight. // Big Local: A State trooper stopped a driver going the wrong way on I-90 by hitting the car head-on. An armed woman dressed in a phony UPS uniform was arrested for prowling in Pierce County. // You Pick the Topic: A Michigan Judge is sentencing Walmart shoplifters to wash cars in the parking lot.
In the first hour, Dick Fain and Hugh Millen react to Mayor Bruce Harrell's joke about the return - or not - of the NBA and Sonics, then they chat with Mike Florio about Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith, and later, Kraken Head Coach Dan Bylsma about 4 Nations.
Washington's Democratic Congress members continue to push back on President Trump, Mayor Bruce Harrell talks about Seattle's priorities at his "State of the City" address, and a King County family believes their relative has been unjustly taken to a Guantanamo prison facility. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Paige Browning. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Learn about the latest in local public affairs in about the time it takes for a coffee break! Brian Callanan of Seattle Channel and David Kroman of the Seattle Times discuss Mayor Bruce Harrell's State of the City address, a push for transit passenger safety, a wage theft lawsuit brought by three City of Seattle employees, a look at what's next for social housing, and a revived proposal for a voluntary road-use tax. If you like this podcast, please support it on Patreon!
Jeff Lungholfer on cryptocurrency and keeping your cybersecurity locked down // A look at Mayor Bruce Harrell's State of the City Address // Kellie Meyer on meetings between the US and Russia surrounding the war in Ukraine // Matt Markovich with a Legislative Update // Gee Scott on why there are more single people in Seattle now
The scandal surrounding Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz's resignation epitomizes the dysfunction plaguing liberal urban governance. A steamy love letter allegedly written by a former reporter turned Diaz's $200K-per-year Chief of Staff escalated from mere rumor to a full-blown investigation. Mayor Bruce Harrell terminated Diaz after a report by the Office of Inspector General cited breaches of police code, including dishonesty and misuse of power. Despite Diaz's claims of being blindsided and his controversial public revelation of being gay amidst harassment allegations, the evidence, including the letter, proved too damning. This incident spotlights the erosion of trust in law enforcement leadership as Seattle grapples with skyrocketing crime, police understaffing, and accountability failures. Once again, liberal leadership prioritizes narratives over results, leaving the city in a perpetual state of chaos.
Seattle's former Police Chief Adrian Diaz has been dismissed amid allegations of dishonesty and policy violations. The controversy revolves around claims of a romantic relationship with a subordinate, Jamie Tomkins, and subsequent dishonesty during the investigation. Mayor Bruce Harrell cited findings from the Office of Inspector General, revealing violations of professionalism, conflicts of interest, and supervisory protocols. Diaz denies the allegations and has filed a $10 million lawsuit against the city, alleging discrimination and retaliation after coming out as gay. This development highlights ongoing challenges within Seattle's leadership amid a backdrop of understaffed police forces and public distrust fueled by policy failures, such as the city's defunding efforts during the “Fentanyl Floyd” era. This case underscores the importance of transparency and leadership integrity, especially within law enforcement, as Seattle grapples with escalating crime and internal turmoil.
This week on the GeekWire Podcast, we discuss Elon Musk's lawsuit against OpenAI, which now includes Microsoft, and assess the complexities of the OpenAI-Microsoft partnership, as illustrated by early email exchanges revealed in the lawsuit. We also consider the latest update to the GeekWire 200, our ranked index of Pacific Northwest technology startups, including the rise of Highspot to the top spot, and other trends in the Seattle region's startup ecosystem. And we share highlights from tech events around the region this week, including the WTIA's 40th Anniversary, where Mayor Bruce Harrell addressed AI and the incoming presidential administration; and an interesting takeaway from a panel of startup leaders whose companies made the latest Deloitte Technology Fast 500 list. Related links and coverage Internal emails: Elon Musk wanted to keep OpenAI from becoming ‘Microsoft's marketing bitch' GeekWire 200 update: A new No. 1 rises to the top of our startup rankings WTIA honors 40 years of boosting Washington's tech sector as new CEO aims for more impact Seattle mayor, who sits on a federal AI panel, says he'll seek ways to work with Trump administration With GeekWire co-founders John Cook and Todd BishopSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Bruce Harrell said on Friday that public safety is his administration's “highest priority.” In city hall, that's included a lot of talk about policing and crime. But according to a study of Seattle residents, the biggest public safety issue in people's lives is actually traffic safety. Jacqueline Helfgott – Seattle University Professor and Director of the school's Crime & Justice Research Center – breaks down the results of the Seattle Public Safety Survey and the various ways safety shows up in our lives. The 2024 Seattle Public Safety Survey is accepting responses through November 30. Weigh in on the DNR Outdoor Access and Responsible Recreation Strategic Plan through November 22. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Learn about the latest in local public affairs in about the time it takes for a coffee break! Brian Callanan of Seattle Channel and guest host Ryan Packer of The Urbanist discuss the latest economic forecast for the City of Seattle, a revised growth plan from Mayor Bruce Harrell, and some big financial challenges for two local transit agencies. If you like this podcast, please support it on Patreon!
There are some things that just scream Mondays. A fresh pot of coffee, fresh laundry, and a deep dive into the latest proposal for Seattle's ongoing city growth plan. If you're unfamiliar, Seattle's 20-year growth plan is basically a zoning blueprint showing how the city will make room for new residents. Mayor Bruce Harrell's first draft came out in March, and the proposal wasn't exactly what housing advocates were hoping for. Soundside was joined by Ryan Packer, contributing editor to the Urbanist, who helped break down the latest proposal and how it could reshape Seattle's neighborhood density. Guests: Ryan Packer, contributing editor at The Urbanist. Related Links: Updated Seattle Growth Plan Adds Five Neighborhood Anchors, Bigger Fourplexes - The Urbanist Mayor Harrell Releases Details of One Seattle Comprehensive Plan Update - Office of the Mayor Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Art Zone with Nancy Guppy and other Seattle Channel programs are on the chopping block under Mayor Bruce Harrell's budget proposal. The city needs to close a $250 million budget deficit. We talk with Art Zone host Nancy Guppy about preserving the show and its unique role shining a light on Seattle's arts community. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. You have the power! Make the show happen by making a gift to KUOW. We want to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at SeattleNowPod, or leave us feedback.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A year after the terror attack in Israel, Ari Hoffman reflects on what it taught him about the hate that lives among us. New pro-initiative ad is straight fire. Mayor Bruce Harrell is confronted about alleged support for Socialist police abolitionist. Washington's restaurants are struggling and latest minimum wage change will only make things worse.
What’s Trending: The Manufacturer’s association warns that the Boeing strike will have a massive effect on the economy. Why is Mayor Bruce Harrell endorsing far-left candidate Shaun Scott for the State House? Striking Longshoreman are trying to guarantee that they won’t be replaced by automation, Steve Scalise says its not that simple and that the industry needs to modernize. // Big Local: Camas Council member allegedly threw a rock and flashed a gun at a local fisherman. Stubborn homeless encampments in Tacoma are continuing to impact the residents and businesses around them. Olympia small-business owners are worried that a minimum wage increase would put them in the red. // USA Today’s Christine Brennan is being criticized by WNBA players for her excessive questions about Caitlin Clark
The city of Seattle has a $250 million problem. That's the difference between how much the city is projected to collect next year and what it's projected to spend. This week, Mayor Bruce Harrell delivered his proposal to deal with that hard reality. Now it's up to the city council to finalize the plan before the end of the year. Seattle Now producer Clare McGrane dug into why the city ended up in this position and the various solutions city leaders have suggested. Seattle City Council Budget Information: https://seattle.gov/council/issues/demystifying-the-budget-process-x151133 And we want to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at SeattleNowPod, or leave us feedback online: https://www.kuow.org/feedback We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. You have the power! Make the show happen by making a gift to KUOW: https://www.kuow.org/donate/seattlenowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This budget cycle, the city is bracing for what could be a contentious debate over how to fund essential services and set priorities for the coming year. With an estimated $251 million dollar budget shortfall looming, how it will address that gap has become a pressing concern. Early last week, Mayor Bruce Harrell unveiled his office's plan to tackle the large budget shortfall. Guests: Kevin Schofield, founder of SCC Insights and author of Weekend Reads in the South Seattle Emerald. Schofield is also a member of KUOW's board of directors, which does not make any editorial decisions or work directly with KUOW's newsroom. Relevant Links: Post Alley: Mayor Harrell's New Budget and Windfall Revenue Provoke Big QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week Seattle Nice debates Erica's take on Mayor Bruce Harrell's new budget. TL;DR Harrell avoided big budget cuts but progressives are pissed that he tapped the lucrative payroll tax on big business known as JumpStart to pull that off. Don't miss the city council debate and VP debate watch party at Town Hall this coming Tuesday October 1. We kick it off with a livestream of the big Vice Presidential debate between Tim Walz and J.D. Vance on the big screen. Then, we go local with the Seattle Nice City Council debate for citywide Position 8 between Tanya Woo and Alexis Mercedes Rinck. Town Hall's cafe will be open for folks to purchase beer, wine, cider, and a few straightaway cocktails. Doors for the VP debate open at 5:45 pm. Get your debate tickets here. Submit your questions in advance here. Thanks to Uncle Ike's pot shop for sponsoring this week's episode! If you want to advertise please contact us at realseattlenice@gmail.comOur editor is Quinn WallerSend us a textThanks to Uncle Ike's pot shop for sponsoring this week's episode! If you want to advertise please contact us at realseattlenice@gmail.comSupport the showSupport us on Patreon!
Learn about the latest in local public affairs in about the time it takes for a coffee break! Brian Callanan of Seattle Channel and Erica C. Barnett, founder of Publicola, discuss the tradeoffs in Mayor Bruce Harrell's budget proposal, a new plan for lateral police hires and increased neighborhood surveillance, a new contract between Seattle and the King County Jail, and a major upheaval for King County's public defense system. If you like this podcast, please support it on Patreon!
Surrogates are calling Mayor Bruce Harrell's downtown recovery plan a "roaring success" for the city. Are they right? We debate that, and whether "return to work" is overrated. What is the good life, Seattle? To advertise or just get in touch you can reach Seattle Nice at realseattlenice@gmail.com Our editor is Quinn Waller. Support the Show.Support us on Patreon!
What’s Trending: Socialist Seattle City Council member Tammy Morales is criticizing Mayor Bruce Harrell for his plan to create more jail beds. The IDF carried out strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon in response to the terrorist group’s attack on a children’s soccer field. //LongForm: GUEST: Benton County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Eisinger is sounding the alarms about public defender standards. // The Quick Hit: Kamala Harris said she will attend the ABC debate whether or not Trump does.
A few months ago, Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz was demoted following numerous HR complaints – and legal filings – during his time at the helm of the SPD. Those complaints include claims of discriminatory behavior by Diaz toward women and people of color. There were also rumors of a relationship with an employee. Diaz has denied those allegations, but in May, Mayor Bruce Harrell announced that Diaz would no longer lead the department and appointed former-King County Sheriff Sue Rahr to replace him as interim police chief. But in a recent unsigned letter sent to the Seattle City Council, a whistleblower has alleged that the department's issues could continue even after Diaz -- because the agency tasked with holding SPD accountable hasn't been doing its job. KUOW's Ashley Hiruko has been reporting on all of these developments and joined Soundside to discuss a letter confirmed to be written by a whistleblower within the Office of Police Accountability. Guests: Ashley Hiruko, KUOW investigative reporter Recommended Links: KUOW - Seattle Police watchdog heads ignored complaints against former Chief Adrian Diaz: letter to council KUOW - Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz is being dismissed KUOW - Interim SPD Chief talks SPD culture, school safety, and whether to bring officers back to campuses See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
David is away this week, and Sandeep and Erica are in charge! Our question for this week: Is Seattle in a state of chaos? The evidence: The Seattle school district is considering potentially devastating cuts. Hundreds showed up at a Seattle City Council meeting to protest a last-minute proposal that could doom the city's largest anti-displacement program. Mayor Bruce Harrell demoted the Seattle Police Department chief amid a swirl of lawsuits and allegations. And the King County Regional Homelessness Authority is about to appoint a leader by default, after all the applicants but one dropped out.That's all just in the last week! Listen and leave a five-star review wherever you listen to this podcast.Quinn Waller is our editor. Support the Show.Support us on Patreon!
Sound Transit is stepping up its fare enforcement on Light Rail platforms starting next week, Mayor Bruce Harrell is moving away from acoustic gunshot detection technology, and don't worry, eBook readers, Seattle Public Library still has your holds in place despite the ransomware attack. It's our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Paige Browning. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. You have the power! Make the show happen by making a gift to KUOW: https://www.kuow.org/donate/seattlenow We want to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at SeattleNowPod, or leave us feedback: https://www.kuow.org/feedbackSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Locals react to former President Donald Trump's conviction, Boeing attempts to make good with the FAA and a conversation with Mayor Bruce Harrell about the future of SPD's leadership. It's our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Paige Browning. We can only make the KUOW Newsroom Podcast because listeners support us. You have the power! Make the show happen by making a gift to KUOW: https://www.kuow.org/donate/KUOWNewsroom We want to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at SeattleNowPod, or leave us feedback: https://www.kuow.org/feedbackSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What’s Trending: Adrian Diaz is out as Seattle Police Chief and Mayor Bruce Harrell has picked his interim replacement. Lisa Evans (Vice Chair of the Washington State Republican Party) responds to the Semi Bird story. // Big Local: For the first time ever, the Yakima City Council voted down a Pride Month declaration. Lake Forest Park is installing cameras to prevent speed racing but some locals are convinced it’s just money-making scheme. // Black men who were asked to leave a flight due to body odor are suing American Airlines.
Learn about the latest in local public affairs in about the time it takes for a coffee break! Brian Callanan of Seattle Channel and David Kroman of the Seattle Times discuss Mayor Bruce Harrell's decision to remove Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz from his post, a delay for the City Council on two votes (to lower app-based delivery driver wages and proviso some equitable development initiative funding), and the interesting backstory behind a persistent issue of asylum seekers living in south King County. If you like this podcast, please support it on Patreon!
Mayor Bruce Harrell has introduced a draft proposal for a $1.35 billion transportation levy to renew the expiring Move Seattle Levy. The proposed nine-year levy aims to address street repaving, bridge maintenance, and spot improvements for transit, but falls short of the transformative vision advocated for by transportation and climate activists. As always, a full text transcript of the show is available at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Twitter at @HacksWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Twitter at @finchfrii and find Doug Trumm at @dmtrumm. Resources “Harrell Proposes Modest $1.35 Billion Transportation Levy Renewal” by Ryan Packer from The Urbanist Seattle Transportation Levy Proposal | Seattle Department of Transportation “A Deep Dive on the 15 Corridor Upgrades in Seattle's Draft Transportation Levy” by Ryan Packer from The Urbanist “Seattle Gives Up on Bike Network Expansion Goals in Draft Transportation Levy” by Ryan Packer from The Urbanist “Seattle Levy Proposal Keeps Modest Pace of Building New Sidewalks” by Ryan Packer from The Urbanist “Seattle Levy Proposal Lowers the Bar on Public Transit Investments” by Ryan Packer from The Urbanist “Seattle Voters On Board with Big Transportation Levy, New Polling Shows” by Doug Trumm from The Urbanist Seattle Neighborhood Greenways Disability Mobility Initiative | Disability Rights Washington Cascade Bicycle Club
What’s Trending: People in Seattle have had enough of crime. Mayor Bruce Harrell and other city leaders held a forum and citizens in the audience were hoping for more interaction with the audience rather than just hearing a speech from the officials. The ruling came out in the case of Fani Willis and her affair with her subordinate Nathan Wade. The result of this was not too bad for Willis but it does give more talking points for Donald Trump and his co-defendants in his Georgia election case. A 78-year-old blind woman who had requested her mail to be delivered to her door rather than the mailbox across the street. She got no response from USPS, but King 5 News stepped in to help. // Rideshare apps are leaving Minneapolis after the city has vetoed the Mayors decision of denying a higher wage for the drivers, similar to legislation in Seattle for food delivery drivers. // A Spokane Valley sex offender was arrested again but in Idaho after the man was spotted by a victim’s mother. The man was seen with a teenage boy and the mother could not hold back.
We need more places for people to live. A lot more. Mayor Bruce Harrell has a new vision to make it happen. It's all laid out in his update to the city's comprehensive plan released earlier this week.We dig into where he wants the growth to go with Seattle Times City Hall reporter David Kroman.Registration for UW long Covid study: email uwrecoverstudy@uw.edu.We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. You have the power! Make the show happen by making a gift to KUOW: https://www.kuow.org/donate/seattlenowAnd we want to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at SeattleNowPod, or leave us feedback online: https://www.kuow.org/feedback
This week…Mayor Bruce Harrell gave his State of the City address.A cougar attack in northern Washington reminds us it's always important to be prepared.And Boeing and Alaska have a long road ahead to rebuild trust with customers. Could an executive shuffle and a branded beer help?Seattle Times Food Writer Tan Vinh and Author Jodi-Ann Burey are here to break down the week.We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. You have the power! Make the show happen by making a gift to KUOW: https://www.kuow.org/donate/seattlenowAnd we want to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at SeattleNowPod, or leave us feedback online: https://www.kuow.org/feedback