National Night Out block parties are returning to Burien neighborhoods on Tuesday, August 4. This annual community event brings neighbors together with local police, firefighters, and officials to strengthen connections and build community bonds. Check with your neighborhood for specific block party locations and times.
Burien City Council met on July 13, 2026, and named five candidates for a vacant seat while approving zoning changes. The council also experienced disagreement over a $67,000 settlement. The meeting addressed regional issues and generated political friction among local leaders.
The City of Burien is calling for light artists across the Pacific Northwest to submit proposals for illuminated artworks for the 2026 Arts-A-Glow Festival, scheduled for Saturday, September 12. This is a direct opportunity for local and regional artists to showcase their work in Burien’s community celebration of public art.
Burien Police are inviting residents to participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. The event encourages neighborhoods to host block parties and community gatherings as a way to strengthen connections between police and residents. This is a direct Burien community event organized by the local police department.
Burien City Council will hold a regular meeting Monday, July 27 at 5:30 pm at City Hall to interview five candidates for Council Position 2 and vote on an appointment. Candidates are Jacques Colon, Jessica Ivey, Krystal Marx, Torrance Dixon, and Patricia Hudson. The council will also present a 2026 budget update before going into executive session after the interviews conclude.
Kristine Moreland, founder of Burien-based nonprofit The More We Love, published a guest editorial questioning whether Bloomside (Burien’s DESC permanent supportive housing building) is meeting residents’ needs. She recounts witnessing open drug use, untreated mental illness, and deteriorating health among residents, including individuals losing limbs to fentanyl addiction. Moreland calls for greater investment in recovery housing alongside traditional supportive housing, arguing that housing alone isn’t enough for people battling severe addiction and mental health crises.
A Burien resident has written a letter to the editor questioning the Port’s plan to cut Douglas Fir trees at Mathison Park in Burien. The letter raises concerns about removing the mature trees from this local community space. The full details of the Port’s project timeline and rationale are not included in this excerpt.
The King County Sheriff’s Office Burien-based Southwest Precinct Special Emphasis Team concluded a multi-month drug trafficking investigation on July 14, resulting in three arrests and the seizure of meth, fentanyl, heroin, and more than $95,000. The operation targeted a drug trafficking organization operating across King County. Full details about the suspects and investigation are available from the sheriff’s office.
Burien, Des Moines, and SeaTac officials held a July 14 workshop at Burien City Hall to help residents comment on the Port of Seattle’s Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The Port extended the public comment deadline by 30 days to August 20 at 5 PM. The cities provided presentation slides, poster boards highlighting concerns, a comment letter template, and additional resources to help residents navigate the 6,000-page document.
Burien, SeaTac, and Des Moines officials expressed significant concerns about the Port of Seattle’s draft environmental review for a Sustainable Airport expansion plan at a July 14 open house. The three cities are formally challenging the proposal’s potential impacts on their communities, signaling coordinated opposition to the Port’s plans.
A member of a violent home invasion robbery crew was sentenced to 25 years this week for crimes targeting families across Western Washington, including victims in Burien and South King County. The crew conducted multiple robberies in the region, affecting local residents and families in our community.
Community Development Directors from Burien, Des Moines, and Sea-Tac held a joint open house to help residents understand the Three City Airport SAMP (a planning document affecting all three communities). The presentation featured improved video and materials compared to previous efforts, though attendance was under 40 people. Residents are encouraged to watch the presentation to prepare effective public comments on the SAMP.
The Burien Airport Committee and Des Moines Airport Advisory Committee will meet jointly on Monday, July 13 at 4:00 p.m. at Des Moines City Hall to review the Sustainable Airport Master Plan Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The meeting includes discussion of aviation noise and emissions, and takes place as the public comment deadline approaches later in July. The session will be livestreamed.
A father filed a federal lawsuit July 8 against Highline Public Schools, claiming the district violated his daughter’s constitutional rights by restricting her religious expression and forcing her to attend a mandatory assembly conflicting with her Christian beliefs. The ACLJ lawsuit centers on two 2025 incidents: the student’s distribution of Christian gospel tracts and a May 29 Inclusion Assembly covering LGBTQIA+ topics. Highline has not yet responded, saying it hasn’t been formally served.
King County Elections has released the official ballot for the primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. The list includes all candidates who filed to run for county and local offices. Burien voters can check the full candidate roster on the King County Elections website to prepare before Election Day.
Washington State Patrol is seeking help solving a shooting that occurred around 6 p.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, on southbound SR 509. A caller reported being shot at on the highway. Authorities are asking the public for information about a red Jeep believed to be connected to the incident. If you have any details, contact WSP.
Puget Sound Energy raised electric rates by 12% effective January 1, with natural gas up 7%, driven largely by compliance costs from state climate and clean energy laws. PSE is now seeking approval for an additional 30% electric rate increase and 20% gas increase by 2029. Starting this month, the UTC has ordered PSE to itemize the “State Carbon Reduction Charge” as a separate line item on customer bills.
Candidate filing has closed for the November 2026 election affecting Burien and nearby communities. Key races include U.S. House seats in districts 7 and 9, Washington state legislative positions, King County Council District 8, and judicial races. Notable: Burien Councilmember Alex Andrade is running for state representative in Legislative District 33, Position 2, and former Burien City Attorney Garmon Newsom II filed for a Seattle judgeship.
State Sen. Tina Orwall has launched her re-election campaign for Washington’s 33rd Legislative District, which includes Burien. Orwall is citing legislative accomplishments and backing from state and local supporters as she moves toward the next election cycle. The 33rd District represents South King County communities including Burien and surrounding areas.
The Highline School District’s Capital Facilities Advisory Committee voted 18–3 on March 30, 2026, to recommend a $615.4 million bond for the November 2026 ballot. The package includes rebuilding three middle schools (Sylvester, Cascade, and Chinook), modernizing programs at Southern Heights, and districtwide maintenance. Cascade Middle School would relocate to the Salmon Creek site, a move that sparked community concern over the loss of the Shark Garden but saves $46 million in construction costs.
The Highline School District is proposing a $12 million annual technology levy for four years, set to appear on the November 2026 ballot alongside a school replacement bond. The levy would cost homeowners about $180 per year on a $500,000 home. However, the proposal faces scrutiny as research suggests increased classroom technology may correlate with declining test scores rather than improvement.
About 40 residents attended a community forum on July 18 at Highline College in Des Moines to discuss Sea-Tac Airport’s expansion plans and environmental impacts. U.S. Rep. Adam Smith, State Sen. Tina Orwall, and Port of Seattle Commissioner Ryan Calkins fielded direct questions about noise, air quality, and pollution affecting nearby communities including Burien. The forum highlighted concerns about black oily residue on homes and vehicles, high asthma rates near the airport, and the limited near-term impact of sustainable aviation fuel on emissions.
The Port of Seattle extended the public comment deadline for its Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) environmental review from July 21 to August 20 at 5 p.m. Pacific time. The extension gives Burien residents and neighboring communities an additional 30 days to weigh in on near-term airport expansion projects. Comments can be submitted online to SAMP@portseattle.org or mailed to the Port of Seattle.
King County officials are warning residents that wildfire risk is increasing as summers grow hotter and drier across western Washington. Experts say a single ember could spark the next major fire, urging homeowners to “harden” their homes—a protective measure that helps reduce vulnerability to wildfires. This regional threat directly affects Burien residents preparing for fire season.
A Highline Public Schools parent and attorney is preparing to sue the district in King County Superior Court over a 9-10 month delay in responding to public records requests about the reassignment of Raisbeck Aviation High School Principal Therese Tipton. Kristen Price says the district is illegally stalling access to financial records and claims the delays expose taxpayers to unnecessary legal liability. She has given the district five business days to correct the timelines before filing a lawsuit.
Sound Transit’s Stride bus rapid transit network is expanding to serve the region, with the S2 line set to reach Burien by 2029. The nearly 50-mile BRT network includes three lines opening between 2028 and 2029, integrated with WSDOT’s $3 billion Interstate 405 improvements. Buses will run every 10 minutes at peak times in dedicated lanes, offering frequent transit service to complement the regional light rail system.
Alberta announced a new 1-million-barrel-per-day oil pipeline to Canada’s West Coast, terminating near Washington state waters in the Salish Sea. Environmental groups and Northern Washington tribes warn the resulting increase in oil tanker traffic through shared waters threatens endangered Southern Resident killer whales (74 individuals), marine ecosystems, and fisheries. Construction could begin in late 2027, with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith citing the route as the fastest, most cost-effective option.
Federal Way has approved a one-year moratorium on data center development, joining Seattle, Burien, and other Washington cities with similar restrictions. The move reflects growing regional concern about data centers’ impacts on local infrastructure and resources.
Highline Public Schools voters will decide on a school construction bond and capital technology levy on November 3, 2026. The measures aim to fund facility improvements and technology needs across the district, which serves Burien and surrounding communities.
Highline Public Schools is recruiting residents to serve on committees that will write pro and con statements for two funding measures going to voters in November. The statements will appear in the King County Local Voters’ Pamphlet. Interested Burien residents who attend schools in the Highline district can apply to join either the supporting or opposing committee.
Growing research and parent concerns are challenging the assumption that more classroom technology benefits students. Los Angeles Unified is restricting screen time and eliminating devices for kindergarten and first grade; Seattle parents raised similar concerns at an April school board meeting about device safety and data privacy. The Highline School District is planning a technology levy for November 2026, prompting questions about whether increased tech spending aligns with national trends showing test score declines after states adopted classroom technology.
A Burien man was assaulted following a disturbance at Kent Station on Tuesday, July 21. Kent Police arrested a 38-year-old Kent resident in connection with the assault, while Washington State Patrol made a DUI arrest after responding to a crash report on Highway 167. The incident directly involved a Burien resident, making it relevant to our community.
Washington Attorney General Nick Brown joined 24 states and governors in suing the federal Department of Homeland Security and FEMA over conditions attached to 2026 emergency preparedness grants. The lawsuit challenges requirements related to election procedures, immigration enforcement, and grant termination powers. Washington stands to receive over $23 million in affected grants for cybersecurity, maritime police training, disaster recovery, and earthquake preparedness—funds FEMA may withhold 20 percent of pending compliance.
Tukwila’s City Council voted 4–3 Monday to make camping on city-owned property a misdemeanor, joining Burien and SeaTac in restricting public camping. The measure passed despite divided testimony—supporters cited safety and park access concerns, while opponents warned it would criminalize homelessness rather than address root causes. Interim Police Chief Eric Lund said officers will prioritize connecting people with resources before enforcement.
The King County Flood Control District approved nearly $1.8 million for 16 habitat restoration and salmon recovery projects in District 8, which includes Burien. The funding supports watershed health and environmental work across the region, though specific project details and timelines were not provided in this announcement.
Seattle City Council unanimously passed the Seattle Transit Measure, which will increase the city’s transit sales tax by 0.15 percent for ten years to fund over 100,000 additional transit service hours. Mayor Katie Wilson proposed the measure, which now goes to November voters. The measure will expand evening and weekend bus service, increase transit access programs, and invest in transit infrastructure, marking the longest-funded transit initiative in Seattle’s history.
Seattle City Council unanimously approved a renewed transit funding measure on Tuesday that will go before voters in November. The measure would increase the sales tax from 0.15% to 0.3%, generating $138 million annually to fund approximately 100,000 additional bus trips per year and double subsidized ORCA passes for low-income residents. Burien residents who use King County Metro service could see improved frequencies on select routes, though specific corridors serving Burien will be determined through the city’s existing equity criteria.
Sound Transit is proposing to shorten Route 560, ending service in West Seattle and instead terminating at Burien Transit Center. The change would increase frequency between Burien and Bellevue (every 20 minutes weekdays, every 30 minutes weekends) and redirect West Seattle travelers to King County Metro’s RapidRide H Line or other connections. Sound Transit is accepting public comment on the proposal through a survey, with a potential board vote in November.
Seattle City Council unanimously approved back-to-back 9.5% electricity rate increases for 2027 and 2028, raising average customer bills by about $10 per month each year. The utility cited aging infrastructure, inflation, and rising demand from electric vehicles and heat-pump adoption. The council also unanimously put a transit levy on the November ballot that would increase the transit sales tax from 0.15% to 0.3% for 10 years, costing the median household an extra $29 annually to fund more frequent bus service and free transit passes for low-income residents.
Seattle City Council voted to put a renewed transit measure on November’s ballot that would double the current sales tax funding for transit from 0.15% to 0.3%, generating approximately $138 million annually. If approved, the measure would expand bus service 47% to 280,000 trips yearly, expand transit subsidies for 12,000 residents, and fund improvements in South Seattle and the Duwamish Valley. The current measure expires next spring, and Mayor Katie Wilson is expected to sign the ballot measure next week.
Seattle’s Department of Transportation is relocating two public restrooms from Seattle’s Pioneer Square neighborhood after a property owner’s legal challenge. The solar-powered Throne restrooms, installed in May near First and Charles Street, generated over 9,000 uses in their first four weeks, but SDOT settled an appeal by Cederstrand Rentals LLC and agreed to find new locations by early August. King County Metro has also partnered with Throne to install restrooms at the Aurora Village and Burien transit centers.
U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal held a press conference in the Puget Sound region with immigrant-rights groups to denounce ICE enforcement practices, following fatal shootings by ICE agents in Texas and Maine. The event highlighted concerns about the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, a private immigration facility, and called for independent investigations, health inspections, and abolishing ICE. Local organizations urged community members to sign up for constitutional observer training and support rapid response networks to monitor enforcement actions.
Weekly Volcano compiled a comprehensive guide to Pierce County community resources for residents facing housing instability, food insecurity, domestic violence, health gaps, mental health crises, and other emergencies. The guide lists contact information and services for one-call navigators like 211 and Access Pierce, plus dozens of agencies serving Tacoma, Lakewood, Puyallup, and surrounding areas. Key resources include emergency shelter access, food banks, domestic violence hotlines, crisis lines, health clinics, and veteran services.
Sno-Isle Libraries has compiled a comprehensive extreme weather resource guide covering hot weather, poor air quality, and cold weather preparedness. The guide directs South King County residents to cooling and warming centers (including local libraries), safety tips from the CDC and Washington State Department of Health, energy assistance programs, shelter information, and real-time alerts for power outages and road conditions. Many resources are available in multiple languages including Spanish, Mandarin, Korean, Russian, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.
Federal judges in Western Washington appointed veteran attorney Roger Rogoff as US Attorney this morning, but President Trump fired him within hours. The judges appointed Rogoff after Trump’s unconfirmed pick, Charles Floyd, remained blocked by senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell. Rogoff says he’s considering a lawsuit, setting up a major legal showdown over who controls federal prosecutions affecting Burien residents.
Snohomish County is developing a Road Safety Action Plan to address a 70% increase in serious and fatal traffic injuries from 2014 to 2024. Public Works and the Health Department are inviting residents to take an online survey before September to share safety concerns about county roads. The feedback will help prioritize transportation investments and projects across the county’s 1,600 miles of roads.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay announced they are partially dismantling the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA), returning over 400 contracts worth $160 million to city and county departments by early 2027. The move comes as King County’s homeless population reached 18,365 in 2026—a 9% increase from 2024—and follows a forensic audit uncovering $13 million in accounting irregularities and $44.7 million in negative cash balance at KCRHA.
King County Sheriff’s Office rescue helicopters are receiving more than $1 million in federal funding, secured by U.S. Rep. Kim Schrier, to upgrade equipment and improve emergency response across western Washington. The money will pay for new instrument panels, rescue hoists, and transmission upgrades to enhance safety and speed for wildfire response, flood evacuations, and mountain rescues. The air support unit serves all of South King County and regularly operates throughout Washington, making this upgrade relevant to Burien residents and visitors.
Alberta announced a new crude oil pipeline route to Canada’s West Coast that would increase tanker traffic through waters near Washington state, sparking concern among environmental groups and tribes. The one-million-barrel-per-day pipeline would terminate at Vancouver’s Roberts Bank, with ships passing the San Juan Islands and risking spills in Puget Sound and killer whale habitat. Construction could begin in late 2027, with Alberta, the Canadian federal government, Trans Mountain Corporation, and Pembina Pipeline partnering on the project.
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay and Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson announced a restructuring of the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) following a damning audit that revealed a $45 million deficit and $13 million in untracked funds. By January, Seattle and King County will retake control of over $158 million in service contracts, while KCRHA retains limited regional functions. The agency’s budget will be cut by more than half, affecting 20–25 staff jobs, with the long-term future of KCRHA to be decided later this year.
A multi-agency operation called Operation Guardian led to 21 arrests across Snohomish County for child sexual abuse and exploitation. One of those arrested, Jimy De Paz Perez, 24, is from Burien. The Washington State Patrol’s Missing and Exploited Children Task Force coordinated the effort involving over 30 law enforcement agencies. Charges include rape, commercial sexual abuse of minors, and other related offenses.
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay and Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson announced a plan Wednesday to stabilize the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) after an April forensic evaluation found $13 million in mismanaged funds and a $45 million deficit. The plan refocuses KCRHA on core regional functions like coordinated entry and federal funding applications, while moving service contracts back to King County and Seattle by August 1, 2027. An independent financial monitoring firm will embed in KCRHA through year’s end to strengthen oversight.
King County’s Transportation District voted 5-4 Friday to raise sales tax by 0.1 percent starting January 1, 2027, generating roughly $100 million annually without a voter ballot. This is the same tax voters rejected 55-45 in 2014. The tax will raise Seattle’s combined sales tax to 10.65%, one of the highest in the country, while funding unincorporated areas and wealthy Eastside enclaves more than Seattle itself.
Shark Garden, a beloved community gathering space in the Highline area, faces closure by 2026 as Highline School District plans a possible Cascade Middle School rebuild at the former Salmon Creek Elementary site. The garden offers free summer classes and events throughout June and July, including native plants, mushroom growing, and cultural cooking workshops. Director Taryn Koerker describes 2026 as pivotal as organizers explore relocation options and seek community support through donations.
South County Fire’s Board of Commissioners unanimously advanced a $420 million bond measure to the November ballot. The bond would fund new fire stations, station replacements, and seismic upgrades across the district, which serves Burien and surrounding communities in South King County.
An activist filed a state initiative (IL27-123) proposing to overhaul Sound Transit’s board governance. The proposed “Effective and Responsive Transit Board Reform Act” would replace the current board of local elected officials with 11 directly elected board members plus 7 appointed experts, taking effect in 2029 if approved. The move comes after Sound Transit delayed major ST3 projects approved by voters in 2016, including indefinitely postponing the Ballard light rail line.
Seattle City Council voted 9-0 Tuesday to give Mayor Katie Wilson until August 1 to recommend whether to restructure, dissolve, or continue the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA). The vote follows an April audit finding $13 million in mismanaged funds and a $45 million deficit at the agency created in 2019. Several council members support dissolving KCRHA over financial mismanagement concerns.
The King County Regional Homelessness Authority faces crisis after an April forensic audit revealed a $45 million deficit, including $13 million unaccounted for or overspent. Seattle and King County leaders are divided on whether to dissolve or reform KCRHA, with both jurisdictions setting an August 1 deadline for a restructuring report. The agency manages $65 million in federal housing grants serving 4,500 households and key systems like homeless intake and case management—any hasty dissolution could jeopardize federal funding and disrupt regional services.
A federal judge is reconsidering whether to throw out Washington’s redrawn legislative maps, a decision that could delay the Aug. 4 primary and leave 67 candidates in limbo. The maps, which shifted over 300,000 people across 13 districts in 2024 to strengthen Latino voting power in the Yakima Valley, are now being challenged after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling curtailed race-based redistricting. King, Pierce, and Thurston county voters could be affected if the maps are reversed, according to Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, who warned it would be a “recipe for chaos.”
Washington voters will elect five of nine state Supreme Court justices this November, a majority of the court. The current progressive court has led nationally on civil rights and struck down the drug possession law in 2021. Key races include defending Ferguson appointees Colleen Melody and Theo Angelis, plus three open seats. Dark money groups tied to conservatives, including Full Court Press and the Citizens Action Defense Fund, are backing candidates to shift the court’s direction, particularly around the contested new millionaires’ tax.
A state report on superintendent pay reveals that four of Washington’s 11 highest-paid school leaders work in South King County school districts, which includes the Burien area. The finding highlights significant compensation differences among district leaders across the state. Details on specific names, districts, and salary amounts are available in the full report.
King County has reminded trail users that e-motorcycles are prohibited on county trails and is urging all users to slow down and keep trails safe. While based in Bellevue, this county-wide policy affects Burien residents who use local trails and parks maintained under King County regulations.
King County Council approved a $431 million supplemental budget for 2026-2027. As a major funding decision affecting the county that serves Burien, this budget will influence services and programs available to residents, though the specific allocation details were not provided in this brief report.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is proposing a year-round closure on recreational scallop harvesting statewide to protect public health from biotoxins like paralytic shellfish poisoning. If approved, the closure takes effect late December 2026 and affects all recreational scallop diving and intertidal harvesting. Public comments are due by September 14, with a virtual hearing August 5 at 5:30 p.m. The Fish and Wildlife Commission will decide in October.
A U.S. House subcommittee heard testimony Tuesday on HR 9621, the Northwest Endangered Salmon Predation Prevention Act, which would let Washington and treaty tribes remove sea lions and harbor seals in specific locations under strict caps. Washington has spent nearly $4 billion—roughly $1 million daily—on salmon recovery under federal court order, but sea lion predation at bottlenecks like the Ballard Locks and Willamette Falls undermines these efforts. Sea lion removals at Willamette Falls reduced winter steelhead extinction risk from 89% to 11%, according to state estimates.
Seattle’s city council advanced Mayor Katie Wilson’s transit funding measure Thursday, keeping it at a 0.3% sales tax for 10 years to increase King County Metro bus service by around 100,000 trips annually. Proposals to scale back the measure were defeated, including one that would have cut it to 0.225%. The measure heads to a full council vote next Tuesday before appearing on November’s ballot, and would expand late-night service, restore 2019 bus service levels by late 2028, and extend free ORCA cards to trade school students.
Washington tribes including the Swinomish and Squaxin Island Tribes sued the federal government Tuesday over Trump administration changes to Endangered Species Act rules that redefine “harm” to protected habitats. The rule change, announced July 10, reduces permitting requirements but tribes argue it threatens chinook salmon recovery in the Puget Sound and Skagit River, which are central to their treaty rights. Nine environmental groups filed a separate lawsuit challenging the same rule.
King County Prosecutor Leesa Manion is pushing state lawmakers to pass legislation requiring recyclers to photograph copper wire and upload it to a law enforcement database, similar to successful catalytic converter theft measures. The bill failed to advance in 2026 but Manion says she’s optimistic it will pass in 2027. Copper wire theft costs King County residents far more in damages than thieves gain—a recent West Seattle Bridge case involved $1,000 in stolen wire but $100,000 in damage.
Pierce Transit’s board unanimously approved a ballot measure for November that would increase the dedicated sales tax from 0.6% to 0.9%—the first funding increase since 2002. If approved, the measure would expand service by roughly 40%, add four new routes, extend hours on 23 routes, and provide free transit to seniors. The expanded network is designed to support Pierce County’s rapid growth and prepare for light rail service to Seattle by 2035.
Seattle’s urban stadium design gave the 2026 FIFA World Cup a major advantage over other U.S. host cities. While Kansas City, Dallas, Boston, and New York struggled with traffic chaos and transit failures, Seattle’s centrally located Lumen Field enabled record-breaking light rail ridership, walkable fan marches, and smooth crowd management. The city’s pre-existing transit infrastructure and temporary pedestrian zones created a model that contrasts sharply with car-dependent suburban stadiums elsewhere.
Washington Attorney General Nick Brown led a coalition of 24 state attorneys general in opposing a proposed USPS rule that would restrict mail-in and absentee ballots for federal elections. The coalition filed a formal comment Thursday asking USPS to withdraw the rule, arguing it violates the Constitution and would create confusion ahead of the 2026 election. A federal judge already struck down a related Trump executive order, but USPS has not rescinded its proposed rule.
The Transit Riders Union surveyed nearly 500 people about Seattle-area transit benefits and found that unlimited passes boost ridership—65% of pass holders commute by transit compared to 50% without. The analysis highlights gaps: low-to-middle-income riders often earn too much for ORCA LIFT ($1 fares for those under 200% poverty line) but lack employer passes, while a monthly pass costs $108. As Seattle considers a fall transit measure with a 0.15% sales tax increase, advocates recommend expanding low-income fares and opening bulk pass programs beyond employers to broaden access.
A statewide initiative to repeal Washington’s 9.9% tax on income over $1 million has qualified for the November ballot after collecting 317,506 signatures—exceeding the 309,000 required. Initiative 26-645 would also prohibit future state and local income taxes. Supporters say it protects entrepreneurs and retirees; opponents argue it funds important public investments. Organizers will submit signatures to the Secretary of State on July 2.
Democratic leaders launched the “No Hate in WA State” campaign in June to oppose two conservative-backed ballot initiatives (IL26-001 and IL26-638) targeting transgender rights that will appear on Washington’s November ballot. The initiatives would require schools to disclose student medical information to parents and mandate invasive sex verification exams for girls in school sports. U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, and local advocates spoke at the Seattle rally opposing the measures, which are backed by $5.5 million in funding from Let’s Go Washington PAC.
State Senator Rebecca Saldaña and Seattle Port Commission President Toshiko Hasegawa faced off June 10 at a housing forum in Beacon Hill for the open King County Council District 2 seat. Both progressive candidates support expanding affordable housing and transit while preventing displacement, but differ on funding approaches—Hasegawa backs a county levy for social housing while Saldaña prefers state-level progressive revenue options. The August 4 election will determine who fills the seat vacated when Girmay Zahilay became County Executive.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson proposed renewing the Seattle Transit Measure with a 0.15% sales tax increase (raising the total to 0.3%), generating about $138 million annually for King County Metro bus service. If approved by the City Council by mid-July and voters in November, the measure would add 100,000 bus trips yearly, with priority given to routes in South Seattle and equity-focused neighborhoods. While primarily a Seattle initiative, the regional transit expansion could indirectly benefit Burien residents who use cross-county bus connections.
Seattle City Council approved a resolution requiring Mayor Katie Wilson to recommend by August 1st whether to restructure, continue, or dissolve the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, following a May audit revealing a $44.7 million spending hole. The decision affects Burien residents since KCRHA serves the broader region and any restructuring could impact how homelessness services are delivered countywide, though this is primarily a Seattle and county governance matter.
Pierce Transit unveiled an expansion plan Monday that would boost service by 40% if voters approve a 0.3% sales tax increase in November. The proposal includes four new routes, increased frequency on dozens of existing lines, extended evening service until 10pm on weekdays, and upgrades to the Stream express service. Without new funding, Pierce Transit faces a fiscal crisis by 2027, with potential service cuts beginning in 2031.
The Nondrivers Alliance is urging transit board members across Washington State to participate in Week Without Driving 2026 (October 1–8) by riding public transit. A survey of transit board members revealed that only 4% ride transit daily and 12% have never ridden their agency’s service. The advocacy group argues that elected officials who regularly use transit make better policy decisions affecting the one-third of Americans who can’t or don’t drive.
Snohomish County Parks & Recreation has launched planning for the Centennial Trail South Extension, a 12-mile trail project that will connect Snohomish to Woodinville along a former railroad corridor and link to King County’s Eastrail network. The county is seeking community input through an online survey (open through August 29, 2026) and summer outreach events. With $2 million in funding secured for planning and design through 2027, phased construction is expected to begin over the coming decade.
King County Elections mailed ballots today for the August 4 primary election, which affects Burien voters as residents of King County. Key races include U.S. House District 7 (Rep. Pramila Jayapal vs. three challengers) and District 8 King County Council (Teresa Mosqueda vs. two opponents), plus the Seattle Public Library levy renewal and contested state Supreme Court positions. Ballots must be returned by 8 p.m. August 4 via drop box or postmarked by that date if mailed.
King County’s Trailhead Direct shuttle service begins its 2026 season this Saturday, offering weekend service every 30 minutes to Mount Si and Issaquah Alps trailheads through August 30. The shuttles connect from Sound Transit light rail stations including the new Judkins Park station, with fares matching regular Metro bus rates ($3 adults, free for youth 18 and under). Last year the service drew 12,263 riders, a 35% increase, though some popular Issaquah Alps trailheads won’t be served this season due to route streamlining.
Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin and Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz announced April 22 that the two agencies are resuming talks to merge Everett Transit and Community Transit into one network serving Snohomish County. An interlocal agreement will be drafted for the city’s annexation into Community Transit’s service district, with both the Everett City Council and Community Transit Board expected to vote this fall. The consolidation aims to improve bus connections ahead of light rail expansion in the region.
An Oregon man has been charged with nine counts of unlawfully fishing for protected sixgill and sevengill sharks in Puget Sound, following a months-long investigation by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police. Connor Seifert, 27, allegedly posted photos and videos on social media showing him catching and handling the sharks for trophy photos. Fishing for these protected species is illegal in Washington waters because Puget Sound serves as a nursery for young sharks during a critical phase of their lives.
Steve Gordon of Future 42 is urging Washington voters to pay attention to state Supreme Court races, warning that undervoting—leaving the ballot blank for justices—could swing close races. Gordon cited 2024’s race where candidate Dave Larson lost partly due to undervotes, mainly from Eastern Washington. Future 42 and an allied group called Full Court Press are working to educate voters about judicial candidates, particularly this year’s two newly appointed justices with ties to Governor Bob Ferguson.
The Edmonds School District spent over $300,000 to remove lead from school water after testing revealed contamination at multiple sites, with one sink measuring 412 parts per billion—roughly 80 times the state standard. Health advocates are pushing Washington state to increase childhood blood lead testing, which remains among the nation’s lowest at under 10%. Snohomish County, which includes areas near Burien, has improved its testing rate from 3.3% in 2020 to 11.7% in 2025, but experts say more awareness and provider support are needed.
An Oregon man named Connor Seifert faces 10 counts after allegedly illegally catching and wrestling protected sixgill and sevengill sharks in South Puget Sound near Pierce County. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says the trauma from these incidents likely caused pregnant sharks to lose their pregnancies. Seifert was charged with nine misdemeanor counts of unlawful recreational fishing and one count of false statement to a public servant after months of investigation.
Sound Transit is advancing the West Seattle light rail project with three updates: soil drilling on 39th SW between Dakota and Genesee through late July, a competitive bidding process for the Duwamish River bridge (deadline July 28, potential value up to $900 million), and a new neighborhood planning survey open through August. While West Seattle is separate from Burien, regional transit expansion affects countywide commuting patterns and housing development near stations.
A citizens group’s four-year effort to preserve the historic Masonic Home property in Des Moines has ended after losing a case in King County Superior Court. The organizer stated they spent their personal savings and retirement funds on the fight. The group has decided not to file another appeal, marking the end of their preservation campaign for the neighboring community’s landmark building.
Seattle City Council unanimously approved an expansion of the Utility Discount Program on Tuesday, making an estimated 31,000 additional low-income households eligible for reduced utility bills starting January 1, 2027. The program will offer 60% discounts on Seattle City Light bills and 50% discounts on Seattle Public Utilities bills for households earning less than 60% of area median income, potentially saving qualifying families over $1,000 annually.
Washington tribes and environmental groups filed two lawsuits Tuesday in U.S. District Court for Western Washington challenging a Trump administration rule change that rescinded the legal definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act. The Swinomish and Squaxin Island Tribes worry the July 10 rule change will threaten Chinook salmon recovery in the Puget Sound and Skagit River, affecting their treaty fishing rights. Nine environmental organizations also sued, arguing the change will weaken protections for salmon, steelhead, grizzly bears, and spotted owls.
A Seattle man has been charged with shooting a passenger on a King County Metro bus on July 5 near Fifth Avenue South and South Lander Street. Rashad Mackey, 36, allegedly fired into the bus after accusing people of taking his phone, striking a victim in the chest. As a three-strike offender with prior felony convictions, Mackey faces potential life in prison. He is also suspected in a separate February 2026 knife assault on a bus.
Snohomish County is asking residents to weigh in on a draft Road Safety Action Plan through an online open house available until September. The county has seen a 70% increase in serious and fatal traffic injuries between 2014 and 2024, and officials are seeking community feedback to identify priorities and projects to reduce crashes, particularly on high-injury rural roads.
Seattle City Council is debating Mayor Katie Wilson’s proposal to increase the Seattle sales tax by 0.15% to fund expanded bus service and transit programs, generating an estimated $138 million annually. Council members Bob Kettle and Rob Saka are proposing amendments to reduce the tax increase and modify funding priorities, with a public hearing set for July 13th and a council vote required by August 4th to place the measure on the November ballot. While this is regional news affecting the broader South King County area, it does not directly impact Burien governance or local services.
Law enforcement arrested 21 people across Snohomish County this week in “Operation Guardian,” a multi-agency task force targeting child sexual exploitation. One arrestee, De Paz Perez Jimy, 24, is from Burien. The Washington State Patrol’s Missing and Exploited Children Task Force coordinated the operation involving 30 agencies statewide. Charges under review include attempted rape of a child, commercial sexual abuse of a minor, and sexual exploitation of a minor.
Washington State’s population growth has slowed significantly, according to April 2026 estimates from the Office of Financial Management. Seattle added 6,800 residents (0.8% growth), while King County grew by 13,000 residents total, reaching 2.4 million. Statewide, net migration dropped 30% year-over-year, though the state added 41,000 housing units, with 62% being multifamily developments.
SE May Valley Road near Issaquah-Hobart Road will close completely starting June 15 for up to 10 weeks to replace the 1932-era Fifteen Mile Creek Bridge #493C. The full closure affects all vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles, with a signed detour route in place. The new bridge will add safety features including 8-foot shoulders for walking and biking, modern railings, and increased span length to improve creek flow and reduce flooding risk.
Washington’s Department of Agriculture will conduct its annual Spartina (cordgrass) eradication efforts from June 1 through November across state estuaries, including Puget Sound, Grays Harbor, and Willapa Bay. The invasive weed threatens salmon habitat, shellfish industries, and native ecosystems. The state has reduced infestations from over 9,000 acres in 2003 to 6.4 acres in 2025, though 60% of 202 infested sites remain.
King County Metro is launching a free waterfront shuttle service starting May 21 through Labor Day to help residents and visitors navigate Seattle during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The shuttle will connect major downtown destinations including Seattle Center, Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, and the waterfront, with additional free Match Day shuttles operating during Seattle’s six World Cup matches to transport fans to games and fan celebrations.
Washington State Ferries released its 2026 Service Contingency Plan, outlining temporary improvements for ferry service during the FIFA World Cup this summer. WSF will keep 20 of 21 vessels available, position two relief vessels at Eagle Harbor, add extra crew and terminal staff, and relax its 24-hour replacement rule to speed responses on Central Puget Sound routes. The plan affects riders region-wide, including those using ferries for World Cup travel between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia.
Washington State Ferries is preparing for increased travel demand during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when Seattle will host six men’s soccer matches. WSF plans to keep 20 of its 21 vessels available, deploy extra crews and staff, and prioritize service on busy Central Puget Sound routes including Seattle-Bainbridge Island, Seattle-Bremerton, and Edmonds-Kingston. Residents using ferries during the June-July event should check the WSDOT app for schedules and real-time updates.
Regional leaders gathered in Lynnwood on July 13 to discuss climate action across Snohomish County as part of PNW Climate Week. Snohomish County’s Climate Resiliency Plan, launched in late 2024, aims to coordinate efforts among agencies and cities to address greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for climate-related emergencies. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency outlined 25 strategies and 100+ actions to meet 2030 and 2050 climate goals, including EV charging infrastructure and the Energize program to weatherproof and electrify buildings across the region.
Boeing officially launched its $1 billion 737 MAX North Line at the Everett factory on July 10, 2026, expanding production capacity from 42 to 47 aircraft monthly during initial phase, reaching 52 by early 2027. The new assembly line hired approximately 1,000 employees and will support regional suppliers and small businesses. While this is major regional aerospace news affecting South King County’s economy and workforce, it’s based in Everett/Snohomish County rather than Burien specifically.
A deadly shooting occurred at a family graduation celebration in Kent on E. Cherry Hill Street when an argument between several people escalated into a physical fight. A 40-year-old suspect shot a 41-year-old man multiple times; the victim was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts. Kent police arrested the suspect at the scene and recovered the weapon. The investigation is ongoing.
The King County Medical Examiner’s Office identified Frank Huy Ho, 33, as the man who died in a July 19 shooting incident in SeaTac near South 192nd Street and 16th Avenue South. Ho died from a gunshot wound to the head, and the manner of death was ruled suicide. The incident prompted a large police response near Sea-Tac Airport and area closure for investigation.
Kitsap Transit will cut Bremerton fast ferry weekday service by 35% starting September 1, dropping from 20 daily round trips to 13, after state supplemental funding ends. The reduction creates a major mid-morning gap with no evening service from Bremerton after 7:05 pm. The cuts follow the state legislature’s decision to step away from fast ferry funding and failure to pass legislation allowing local governments to establish their own passenger ferry districts.
Seattle voters will decide on a transit funding measure this November that includes two amendments proposed by City Councilmember Dan Strauss to improve bus service. Amendment 10 prioritizes faster connections between Ballard, downtown Seattle, and light rail stations, while Amendment 29 requires at least 75% of funding to go toward transit service instead of the proposed 60%. The Seattle City Council unanimously approved sending the measure to the ballot Tuesday.
This regional news digest covers topics across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, including a fusion power plant licensing in Malaga, Washington; Capitol Lake water level work in Olympia as part of estuary restoration; and tire chemical 6PPD’s effects on salmon in the Puget Sound region. Most stories focus on areas outside Burien, though regional environmental and energy issues may have indirect relevance to South King County residents.
Starting August 1, Seattle’s Department of Transportation will begin work on Denny Way to improve Route 8 bus reliability, including adding a new eastbound business access and transit (BAT) lane from Fifth Avenue N to Fairview Avenue N and permanently closing the slip lane from Denny Way to Yale Avenue for I-5 access. The project, a priority for Mayor Katie Wilson, will wrap up by August 31 and coincide with King County Metro increasing Route 8 frequency from every 15 minutes to every 12 minutes on weekday mornings and afternoons.
The Urbanist released its 2026 primary election endorsements covering state and local races across Washington. The organization endorsed candidates for Congress, state legislature, King County positions, Seattle City Council, and Washington Supreme Court, with ballots due by August 4. While some King County races directly affect Burien, this article focuses primarily on Seattle, Puget Sound-area districts, and statewide offices rather than Burien-specific races or candidates.
William Russell-Leonard, 29, pleaded guilty Wednesday to two counts of vehicular homicide, second-degree assault, and possessing a stolen vehicle for driving a car off the Edmonds-Kingston ferry dock in June 2025. The incident, which began with a high-speed pursuit on I-5 near Lynnwood, killed two passengers and injured three others. Sentencing is scheduled for August 11.
The Port of Everett announced over $1 billion in planned waterfront investments during its annual report on July 13, 2026. CEO Lisa Lefeber outlined projects including housing development, shipyard modernization, environmental cleanup, and maritime workforce training. While the port serves Snohomish County rather than Burien, these regional economic developments may create jobs and opportunities for South King County residents seeking maritime careers.
The Interstate Bridge Replacement project between Portland and Vancouver received federal environmental approval on July 1, clearing the way for its first funded phase. The $13.5–$15.2 billion bi-state project will replace aging I-5 bridges over the Columbia River, but faces tensions over funding priorities, light rail alignment, tolling impacts on traffic diversion, and lane configuration—with Oregon and Washington officials split on whether the bridge should be larger and whether to prioritize transit or highway expansion.
An opinion piece argues that Seattle’s high-earner taxes—the 2020 JumpStart payroll tax and a 2025 social housing tax—are not causing job losses, citing employment data showing tech and professional services jobs grew 20% in Seattle from 2019 to 2024 while declining slightly in Bellevue. The author counters a Downtown Seattle Association report claiming the taxes harm the economy, attributing downtown retail job losses to national post-pandemic trends rather than tax policy.
Washington State Parks is deciding the future of Blake Island Marine State Park, a historic 472-acre island in central Puget Sound near Seattle. After tour operator Argosy Cruises ended service during the COVID-19 pandemic, visitation plummeted. State planners are considering four options ranging from restoring it to nature to building lodges and cabins. The agency expects to announce a preferred plan by late August or September, following input from around 5,000 public comments.
A new Clark County homelessness report identifies rising housing costs as the leading driver of homelessness, with domestic violence as the second major cause. The report shows people experiencing homelessness due to domestic violence nearly doubled, from around 808 to 1,794. While this regional data affects our broader community, it’s specific to Clark County (Vancouver area) rather than Burien directly.
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay announced a one-year lease with CREATE48 Media Network to operate Harbor Island Studios, the county-owned film facility. While the county moves forward with surplussing the $22 million property to find a buyer, CREATE48 will manage operations and continue supporting the regional film industry. The Burien Film Festival is among CREATE48’s local programs.
U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (D-02) launched his reelection campaign on June 16 at Bluewater Distilling in Everett. Larsen, who has served 25 years in Congress, outlined priorities including transportation infrastructure, marine conservation, affordability, healthcare access, and fentanyl enforcement. He has raised $1.6 million through March 2026 and secured endorsements from local and state officials across Northwest Washington counties.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson announced a public safety plan for Little Saigon and North Beacon Hill focusing on expanded police patrols and community services. The plan emphasizes collaboration between Seattle Police, the LEAD diversion program, funding for a full-time outreach worker in Little Saigon, and officer training on referrals. While this addresses a South Seattle neighborhood, it has limited direct impact on Burien residents unless similar strategies are adopted locally.
The Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Business Roundtable on Thursday, July 30, featuring updates from the Port of Seattle and SeaTac city leadership. While this event is in a neighboring city, it may interest Burien business owners and professionals in South King County looking to network and hear regional economic updates.
The Georgetown Steam Plant, a historic 1906 coal-powered facility in South Seattle, is being reimagined as a community hub through efforts led by the Georgetown Steam Plant Community Development Authority. The plant, located in the Duwamish Valley near a Superfund site, now hosts arts events, science fairs, and community gatherings while organizers work to establish a permanent access road and expand programming that addresses environmental remediation and climate resilience.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson endorsed progressive challengers Hannah Sabio-Howell and Ron Davis over veteran state lawmakers Jamie Pedersen and Gerry Pollet ahead of Washington’s August 4 primary. Wilson said she rejected the traditional practice of incumbents endorsing fellow incumbents, citing voter frustration with the status quo. The move signals a growing divide within Washington’s Democratic Party, with establishment figures like Governor Bob Ferguson backing Pedersen.
Seattle’s Alki Beach features a 7.5-foot replica of the Statue of Liberty, installed in 1952 by Boy Scouts as part of a national “Strengthen the Arm of Liberty” campaign during the Cold War. The bronze statue, originally copper and restored in 2007, stands at 2665 Alki Ave SW and is roughly a 20–30 minute drive from Burien. The monument commemorates Seattle’s founding at Alki in 1851 and serves as a local symbol of freedom and American values.
Washington Fish and Wildlife opened sockeye salmon fishing on the Skagit River through July 31, marking continued recovery of the Baker River sockeye run. State fisheries officials estimate 70,861 sockeye will return this summer—down slightly from last year’s record 92,000—thanks to decades of co-management efforts by the state, tribes, and Puget Sound Energy. The daily catch limit is four fish with a 12-inch minimum size.
Lynnwood City Council reviewed updates to environmental regulations on June 15 to comply with state requirements. The proposed changes would increase stream buffer setbacks to 100–150 feet, potentially affecting property development. Council members expressed concern that stricter environmental rules could hinder housing goals, though the city is offering exceptions like eliminating parking requirements for smaller properties. A Planning Commission hearing is set for July 1, with a final Council vote scheduled for August 10.
Crime Stoppers is seeking information about the February 1, 2025 killing of 21-year-old Hamze Elmi in Federal Way, which occurred in his yard as he walked home from work. A masked suspect fired seven shots at Elmi, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Though video captured the suspect, investigators need community tips to solve the case. Crime Stoppers offers up to $1,000 anonymously, plus an additional $10,000 from the family—call (800) 222-TIPS.
Washington’s August 4 primary election is two months away, with races affecting the broader Seattle area including U.S. House District 7 (Rep. Pramila Jayapal facing three challengers) and King County Council District 8 (Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda with two opponents). The ballot also includes a proposed Seattle Public Library levy renewal and expansion, plus contested state Supreme Court positions. King County Elections has a full candidate list available online.
Skagit County received a $770,000 state grant to develop clean energy siting regulations and environmental impact analysis, expected to wrap up by May 2027. The county is preparing for inevitable battery storage projects driven by Washington’s 2045 fossil fuel transition deadline. Three public open houses are scheduled for June 9–10 in Anacortes, Mount Vernon, and Concrete to gather community input.
A 26-year-old Kent man, Shannon Hartfield, was convicted Tuesday of 17 federal felonies for leading an armed robbery crew across the Puget Sound region from December 2021 to June 2022. Hartfield recruited younger people, including juveniles as young as 14, to rob marijuana dispensaries, credit unions, and banks, providing firearms and getaway vehicles. He faces a mandatory minimum of 45 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for August 25.
Mukilteo City Council President Jason Moon launched his campaign for Washington’s 21st District House seat on April 26, 2026, at the Lynnwood Neighborhood Center with about 200 supporters. Moon, who lost a primary challenge to incumbent Democrat Strom Peterson in 2024, is running again with a platform focused on housing affordability, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. The 21st District includes Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mukilteo, Everett, and nearby unincorporated areas.
Community Transit and the City of Everett announced this week they’re restarting talks to annex Everett Transit into Community Transit, potentially doubling transit funding and service in Everett. If approved by both the Everett City Council and Community Transit board this fall, the local sales tax for transit would increase from 0.6% to 1.2%, enabling more frequent bus routes and extended evening service. While this affects the broader Puget Sound region, it has minimal direct impact on Burien, which is served by King County Metro.
Everett and Community Transit announced plans to consolidate Everett Transit into Community Transit’s regional network, with an interlocal agreement expected before both the Everett City Council and Community Transit Board this fall. The consolidation aims to improve connections to light rail service in Lynnwood, increase bus frequency, and reduce transfers for riders across Snohomish County.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson announced plans to speed up Route 8 service on Denny Way with a new half-mile eastbound bus lane and permanent I-5 ramp reroute, set to take effect in August 2026. The changes include closing a slip lane at Stewart Street and redirecting southbound I-5 traffic through Boren and Howell Avenues. Route 8 frequency will also increase from every 15 minutes to every 12 minutes starting August 29, funded by the 2020 Seattle Transit Measure.
Tacoma’s city council unanimously approved a $200 million street safety levy for the August ballot, down from a failed $400+ million proposal last year. The “Connect Tacoma” measure would fund safer streets, sidewalks, and pedestrian infrastructure over 10 years through property taxes ($0.20 per $1,000 assessed value) and a 1.5% utility tax, leveraging an additional $120 million in grants and partnerships. This is regional news with limited direct impact on Burien.
Lynnwood officials broke ground April 8, 2026, on a $58 million Poplar Way Bridge that will span Interstate 5 and connect Poplar Way/196th Street Southwest with Alderwood Mall Boulevard/33rd Avenue West. The six-lane bridge is expected to handle 30,000 vehicles daily and include a protected pedestrian and bicycle path. Construction is set for completion in 2028, with road closures beginning soon and I-5 nighttime closures expected in 2027.
Mercer Island’s city council unanimously voted to advance zoning changes to comply with state housing requirements, following a state board ruling last August that found the city’s growth plan noncompliant. The plan proposes upzoning the Town Center to eight stories and reducing affordable housing mandates from 15% to 10% of units, with a July 31 deadline for compliance. This regional story illustrates state pressure on affluent communities to accommodate more housing, but Mercer Island is not in South King County and does not directly affect Burien.
Kirkland police arrested a suspect in a months-long investigation into organized retail theft across the Puget Sound region, with an estimated $500,000 in stolen merchandise. While this regional crime case doesn’t directly involve Burien, the organized retail theft trend may affect local retailers and shoppers throughout South King County.
Researchers at the University of Washington are studying a floating wetland project at Shilshole Bay Marina in Seattle to restore salmon habitat in saltwater. Installed since 2022, the system of 10 connected floating units with native vegetation and eelgrass is showing early promise, with more juvenile salmon observed near the wetlands than at control sites. While the project is in Seattle, it represents regional innovation in habitat restoration that may benefit South King County salmon populations.
Puget Sound Fire, based in Kent, is hosting a town hall to help residents in Covington, Maple Valley, and parts of Kent prepare for potential summer wildfires amid forecasts of hotter, drier conditions. While the fire district serves some nearby areas, this event is not directly in Burien and doesn’t affect our community.
Seattle is launching Golden Gardens Direct, a new summer transit service to the Golden Gardens beach area, funded through the Seattle Transit Measure. King County Metro and the City of Seattle are offering this pilot service during peak beach season. While this is regional transit news, it primarily serves Seattle residents rather than Burien communities.
King County Metro and Seattle are launching Golden Gardens Direct, a seasonal pilot bus service running June 27 through August 30. The shuttle will connect Ballard’s Market Street corridor to Golden Gardens Park every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with fares at $3 for adults, free for youth under 18, and $1 for reduced-fare riders. The service aims to reduce summer traffic and parking demand at the popular waterfront park.
Black Diamond is marking 146 years of fire services and faces a critical decision on August 4, 2026, about annexing into the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority. If approved, the regional authority would take over fire and emergency services on January 1, 2028, funded through property tax and benefit charges. The city currently contracts with Mountain View Fire and Rescue, but that agreement expires at the end of 2027.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife issued an emergency closure on June 2 for salmon, steelhead, and game fish in the Snohomish Basin (which includes the Snohomish, Skykomish, and Snoqualmie rivers) to protect wild chinook salmon. Fewer than 3,500 wild chinook are forecasted to return to the basin in 2026, prompting the closure of key fishing areas including the mainstem Skykomish and Snoqualmie River below Snoqualmie Falls through summer and fall 2026.
Beach fire season at Alki Beach officially begins Friday, May 22, 2026, running through September 7. Seattle Parks permits fires in designated pits on a first-come, first-served basis seven days a week, with fires required to be extinguished by 10 p.m. Only clean, dry firewood is allowed in installed fire containers; no personal fire pits or propane rings permitted. Alki is in West Seattle, a neighboring community to Burien.
Mercer Island’s City Council voted unanimously on July 21 to update zoning and housing rules to comply with state law before a July 31 deadline. The changes include allowing emergency shelters and supportive housing across more neighborhoods under House Bill 2266, increasing building heights in the Town Center to six to eight stories, and reducing affordability requirements from 15% to 10%. A state hearings board will review compliance on September 15.
Bellevue City Council unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on detention centers on June 9, effective immediately as emergency legislation. The freeze blocks new detention center applications while the city develops permanent zoning rules. A public hearing is scheduled for July 28 to allow resident input, as required by state law.
A Seattle developer is converting 23,000 square feet of office space in Ballard’s Commons building into 23 apartments through the city’s Office-to-Residential Conversion Program. The former Gravity Payments headquarters at 5621 22nd Ave. NW is undergoing permitting, with construction expected to begin this summer. While this regional housing project reflects broader trends affecting South King County, it’s located in Seattle and doesn’t directly impact Burien residents.
Issaquah’s City Council approved an ordinance on June 29 relaxing building design requirements like stepbacks and outdoor amenity spaces to encourage housing development. Two councilmembers voted against it, wanting bolder options before the city considers architectural design standards this fall. The changes are part of a broader 17-item housing reform workplan led by Mayor Mark Mullet, though Issaquah is a neighboring city and not directly part of Burien.
The Stranger published its 2026 primary election endorsements, a guide to candidates in federal, state, county, and local races across Washington. The endorsements include U.S. Representatives, state legislators, judges, and Seattle city candidates, with voting deadline August 4. Ballots go out before then—check deadlines for your area.
Marysville Mayor Jon Nehring was elected president of the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) during the organization’s annual conference June 23-26 in Spokane. Nehring, who has served on the AWC Board since 2013 and as Marysville mayor since 2010, will lead the 25-member Board of Directors representing Washington’s cities and towns.
Tacoma’s city government approved $6.4 million in cultural funding for 80 arts, heritage, and science organizations in the 2026-2027 fiscal year through Tacoma Creates, the state’s first cultural access program. The funding supports events and programming from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, sustaining organizations that serve all ages across Tacoma’s cultural sector.
SeaTac is hosting free FIFA World Cup watch parties at two venues: Métier Brewing Company at 2825 S. 200th Street and Stoup Brewing at 18400 International Blvd. Both sites will offer live music, food trucks, and community programming throughout the tournament. While SeaTac is a neighboring city, this event is primarily local to SeaTac and has limited direct impact on Burien residents unless they choose to travel south for the activities.
Metro launched a new summer-only bus route called Golden Gardens Direct on June 27, connecting Ballard to Golden Gardens Park with service running daily 11 am to 9 pm through August 30. The shuttle costs $3 per ride (free for youth 18 and under) and runs every 30 minutes from 15th and Market Street in Ballard, funded by $300,000 in Seattle Transit Measure money. While this serves the broader King County region, it’s specific to Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood and Golden Gardens Park.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson kicked off the 2026 Bicycle Weekend season on Lake Washington Boulevard with around 300 cyclists on Saturday, May 24. This year’s expanded schedule runs every weekend from Memorial Day to Labor Day (except Seafair weekend July 31–August 2), with extended Friday and Sunday evening hours. A 2022 public survey showed 62% of Seattle residents supported expansion. The event drew both supporters and dozens of protesters organized by the pro-driving group Coexist Lake Washington.
Everett City Council approved an additional $10.6 million Wednesday to advance plans for a new $120 million outdoor stadium for the AquaSox minor league baseball team and a United Soccer League expansion team. The funding will support design and property acquisition for the Everett Outdoor Event Center, set to open in Fall/Winter 2027. While this is regional sports news, it doesn’t directly affect Burien residents or local services.
WSDOT has started a two-phase paving project on SR 525 (Mukilteo Speedway), the first time the road has been paved since 2004. Phase one covers two miles from I-5 in Lynnwood to SR 99 and should finish by fall; phase two will pave the section near Mukilteo later this year. Expect directional closures and nighttime work, especially near the ferry dock, to minimize disruptions.
Weekly Volcano’s July 24 newsletter covers events, governance, and opportunities primarily in Tacoma and Pierce County. Highlights include Tacoma’s August 4 vote on Connect Tacoma Proposition 1 (street repairs and sidewalks), Deputy Mayor Joe Bushnell’s proposed $20 minimum wage ordinance, and the Port of Tacoma’s $250 million cold storage deal with Saxum. The newsletter also lists community events like the I Respect Black Festival at Wright Park and various arts, recreation, and grant opportunities across the region.
Issaquah became the first Washington city to adopt a self-certification program for backyard cottage permits, allowing licensed architects to approve their own detached accessory dwelling unit plans without city review. The unanimous council vote implements state legislation (HB 1353) intended to speed up housing production, with Issaquah’s building department auditing at least 20% of submitted plans annually to ensure quality.
This regional news roundup covers environmental and wildlife topics across the Salish Sea area, including tidegate repair disputes in Skagit County, water supply forecasts for Washington’s Columbia Basin, kelp forest monitoring in Puget Sound near Tacoma, and a rare tufted puffin sighting near Olympia. While these stories affect the broader Puget Sound region, none directly involve Burien or directly impact local residents.
A legal battle over tidegate repairs in Skagit County has stalled infrastructure maintenance for five years, affecting about 60,000 acres of farmland. A culvert collapse in 2019 damaged the No Name Slough tidegate complex near Burlington, but permitting disputes between drainage districts and the Swinomish tribe over salmon habitat mitigation have blocked repairs, leaving nearby farms like Owen Peth’s vulnerable to water damage.
Black Diamond voters will decide on August 4 whether the city should annex its fire services into the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority. While this is a regional governance matter, it does not directly affect Burien residents or services. More details are available on Black Diamond’s city website.
Voice of the Valley shares the history of Black Diamond’s library, tracing its journey from a room in the Pacific Coast Coal Hotel in 1916 through multiple relocations as the mining town evolved. The library eventually became part of King County Library System in 1990 and moved to a new 5,000-square-foot facility on Roberts Drive, which opened in May 2008.
An opinion piece argues that Bellevue should prioritize pedestrian and bike infrastructure around its new light rail stations, particularly protected bike lanes on 156th Avenue connecting to Overlake Village station. The SAFE Bellevue coalition is urging the city council to fund these projects during its budget process, citing 41 street deaths in 2025 and noting that protected bike lanes reduce collisions for all road users.
Schnitzer West is acquiring The Bravern, a 750,000-square-foot office complex in downtown Bellevue, after Microsoft vacated the property last year. The deal, expected to close in fall 2026, addresses a $304 million mortgage default and aims to reposition the towers for new tenants. While this is regional commercial real estate news, it has minimal direct impact on Burien residents or local affairs.
Ken Klein, the newly hired City Administrator of Snohomish, earned the ICMA Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association. Klein previously served as an Executive Director in the Snohomish County Executive’s Office overseeing nine departments with a $650 million budget. The credential recognizes senior local government leaders who demonstrate integrity, professional excellence, and commitment to ongoing learning.
Kaiser Permanente is reclassifying its Capitol Hill Medical Center’s walk-in urgent care as emergency department visits starting September 17, which will result in higher copays and facility fees for patients. The change is part of a national trend where hospital systems bill outpatient clinics as hospital-based departments to charge premium rates, affecting low-income patients who rely on Medicaid-accepting clinics.
The Economic Alliance Snohomish County announced a board leadership change: Dr. Paul Pitre is stepping down as chair to return to teaching at Washington State University, and Robert Knoll of Puget Sound Energy will take over as board chair. Mark Duffy of Mountain Pacific Bank becomes vice chair. While EASC operates in the broader region, this organizational leadership transition has minimal direct impact on Burien residents.
Economic Alliance Snohomism County announced leadership changes on Tuesday, with Paul Pitre stepping down as board chair to return to teaching at Washington State University’s Pullman campus. Robert Knoll from Puget Sound Energy takes over as chair, while Mark Duffy of Mountain Pacific Bank becomes vice chair. While this regional economic organization affects the broader South King County area, the news focuses on Snohomish County leadership and doesn’t directly involve Burien.
The Bellevue Conflict Resolution Center and Small Business Consultants have expanded services to Mini City Hall, offering in-person conflict mediation on Wednesdays (noon–2 p.m.) and free business consulting (10 a.m.–noon Wednesdays). While Mini City Hall serves the broader Eastside region including South King County communities, this article focuses on Bellevue city programs and does not mention Burien specifically.
Lindsey Baum, a 10-year-old from McCleary in Grays Harbor County, disappeared in 2009 and remains missing 17 years later. Her remains were identified nearly nine years after her disappearance, found 120 miles away. Investigators have cultivated several persons of interest but made no arrests. Lindsey’s mother, Melissa Baum, continues to seek answers and justice, urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 802-222-TIPS.
The San Juan Preservation Trust is repairing a deteriorating breakwater on Vendovi Island, located ten miles into Bellingham Bay, to protect public access and restore habitat for pigeon guillemots. The one-month restoration begins in September and will reinforce the wall with larger boulders and filter cloth to prevent future erosion. The guillemot population has declined from 50 birds in 2010 to just four, and researchers from the University of Washington are monitoring how the birds respond to the repairs using autonomous recording units and direct counts.
Clyde Hill, a small Eastside city of 3,000 between Medina and Bellevue, is proposing a 69% property tax increase to address budget deficits that have drained reserves over five of the last seven years. The city council advanced plans for the levy in a special meeting, with final approval expected July 14. If approved, November voters will decide whether to raise the tax rate to $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed value—the city’s largest tax increase in decades—to avoid potential merger with a neighboring jurisdiction.
Spokane County voters will decide on STA Proposition 1, a 0.2% sales tax renewal for Spokane Transit Authority on the August 4th ballot. The measure is not a tax increase but funds the next 20 years of transit service and an $80 million Division Street bus rapid transit project. Since 2016, Spokane Transit has increased bus service 35%, made transit free for riders under 19, and achieved the state’s lowest cost per passenger while providing the second-highest fixed route ridership behind King County Metro.
Community Transit’s Zip Shuttle microtransit service is expanding beyond Lynnwood to Arlington, Darrington, and Lake Stevens, with local officials in Edmonds and Mountlake Terrace pushing for service in their communities. The ride-hailing style service, which costs $2.50 per trip, has proven popular since launching in Alderwood in October 2022, but Community Transit is focusing on the four existing areas before expanding elsewhere.
Tacoma released its 2026 Community Survey in March and April, finding resident satisfaction improved in 68 of 80 city service areas over two years. The survey of 902 residents highlighted gains in fire services (83% satisfaction), library services (up 9%), and police response times (up 7%), while identifying priorities like street conditions, code enforcement, and cost of living as areas needing more resources.
Capitol Hill’s AIDS Memorial Pathway, located above Capitol Hill Station and spanning into Cal Anderson Park, comprises four art installations honoring those lost to AIDS. Proposed by Seattle City Councilmember Tom Rasmussen in 2015 and debuted in 2021, the pathway is stewarded by Seattle’s LGBTQ+ Center with help from volunteers and Parks and Recreation. The center is launching a youth HIV awareness campaign and starting a “Pathway Conversations” discussion series this fall.
Black Diamond’s city council unanimously approved moving a fire service annexation measure to voters on August 4, 2026. If approved by a simple majority, the city would join the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority starting January 1, 2028, replacing its current contract with Mountain View Fire and Rescue. The move would staff the recently completed Lawson Hills Fire Station.
King County Wastewater Treatment is starting sewer pipe repairs near Lowman Beach in West Seattle, continuing work from a 2022 pipe break. Crews will rebuild 350 feet of damaged pipe under Beach Drive SW starting tomorrow, with one-lane alternating traffic and steel plates expected. The park will remain open during construction, with full road and park restoration scheduled for fall 2026.
Black Diamond’s city council unanimously approved moving a fire service annexation measure to voters on August 4, 2026. If approved, the city would join the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority starting January 1, 2028, replacing its current contract with Mountain View Fire and Rescue. The change aims to improve emergency response as the region grows.
Weekly Volcano’s July 17 newsletter covers regional Tacoma-area news including a fraudulent locksmith scam warning, the Tacoma Bon Odori Festival on August 1, and the reopening of Point Defiance’s Loop Trail. While most coverage focuses on Tacoma, some items like Pierce County election information and the Washington State Fair may interest Burien residents in the broader South King County area.
Skagit County expanded its stormwater management jurisdiction by roughly 8,000 acres (a 62% increase) effective Wednesday, the first expansion since 2007. The move gives the county authority to upgrade infrastructure and reduce runoff in developing areas, with plans for green infrastructure like rain gardens and permeable pavements over the next 30-40 years.
Pierce County Sheriff’s Office is selling a property at 1810 N Highland Street in Tacoma on August 21, 2026, at 10 a.m. to satisfy a court judgment of $692,511.29. The judgment debtor can avoid the sale by paying the full amount plus interest and costs before the sale date. Contact the Sheriff’s Civil Section at (253) 798-7520 for exact payoff details.
A foreclosure notice was published for a property at 14617 80th Street East in Puyallup, Washington. The trustee sale is scheduled for August 14, 2026, at 9:00 AM at the Pierce County Superior Courthouse. The borrower, Douglas Radcliffe, is in default on a mortgage with arrears of $14,285.13 and a principal balance of $35,250.07.
This is a legal notice published in the Tacoma Daily Index regarding the probate estate of Gloria Ann Hemphill, who passed away December 1, 1931. Creditors have until October 5, 2026, to file claims against the estate with executor Lisa Ann Miller. This is a standard probate notice with no direct connection to Burien.
This is a legal notice for the probate estate of Jean Adeline Fraser (born December 11, 1930) in Pierce County Superior Court. Creditors must file claims by June 8, 2026, or lose the right to pursue them. Steven Hook is the personal representative; attorney Janta M. Steele can be reached at Puget Sound Estate Law in Tacoma.
The City of Burien has launched a new online portal enabling residents and business owners to file business and occupation tax returns conveniently through a digital platform. This development streamlines the tax filing process for the local business community by eliminating the need for in-person submissions or paper filings.
On January 12, 2026, the Burien City Council elected Sarah Moore as mayor for a two-year term and Hugo Garcia as deputy mayor for a one-year term. The vote establishes new leadership for the city government, with Moore taking the top executive position and Garcia serving as her deputy.
On September 26, 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration approved a Final Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact for 31 proposed projects under the Port of Seattle’s Sustainable Airport Master Plan at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The Cities of Burien, Des Moines, and SeaTac raised concerns regarding the FAA’s decision on these near-term projects.
The City of Burien, City of SeaTac, and Port of Seattle completed the Miller Creek Restoration Project on November 20, combining infrastructure improvements with ecological restoration near Burien’s Miller Creek Trail. The multi-jurisdictional effort represents a collaborative approach to environmental restoration and community infrastructure development in the region.
A structure fire at Dottie Harper Park (421 SW 146th St.) was discovered around 1 a.m. on Saturday, October 25, completely destroying a house and city equipment and supplies stored inside the building. The total loss resulted in significant damage to city property and resources at the park facility.
The City of Burien will observe National Welcoming Week from September 12-21, 2025, marking the fifth consecutive year of this community celebration. The weeklong event aims to foster inclusivity and community engagement among Burien residents.
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal submitted the Burien Public Market Project to the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations for potential federal funding consideration for fiscal year 2026. The project was included in her community project funding request as the committee deliberates on federal spending decisions.
Burien is seeking resident applications for committees to support or oppose a proposed public safety funding ballot measure. Interested residents can apply to participate on either a pro or con committee for the initiative. Specific details about application deadlines, committee responsibilities, or the levy amount were not provided in the announcement.
The City of Burien has begun developing a property tax levy lid lift proposal designed to fund public safety services in the community. The proposal will advance to the next stages of development, though specific details regarding timeline, vote counts, or financial amounts were not provided in this announcement.
The City of Burien is accepting applications from artists for the 2026 Burien Gallery Program, with a deadline of Friday, August 22, 2025. Interested artists can submit their work for consideration to participate in the city’s gallery program next year.
On May 15, 2025, King County Superior Court ruled in favor of the City of Burien, upholding the constitutionality of Burien’s anti-camping ordinance. The court decision allows the city to enforce regulations restricting camping in public spaces. This ruling resolves legal challenges to the ordinance and enables Burien to continue implementing the policy.
The City of Burien is recruiting volunteers and station educators for StormFest, an annual interactive stormwater festival designed for Highline Public Schools sixth-grade students. Community members interested in supporting the event can submit applications to participate. The festival provides hands-on educational opportunities for local students to learn about stormwater management.
The City of Burien launched its Neighborhood Grants Program to support community improvement projects throughout the city. The program provides funding to residents and organizations seeking to enhance quality of life in Burien neighborhoods. Specific details regarding grant amounts, application deadlines, eligible projects, and funding allocations were not provided in the announcement.
On February 25, 2025, the City of Burien filed a complaint in King County Superior Court seeking a declaratory judgment regarding Burien Initiative 24-001, which voters approved in the February 2025 special election. The city is seeking clarification due to conflicting minimum wage laws related to the initiative. No additional details about the specific conflict or potential impacts were provided in this announcement.
On February 3, 2025, the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington granted the City of Burien’s motion to dismiss in Pastor Mark Miller, et al. v. City of Burien, et al., ruling that cities may require permits before religious organizations host encampments to protect public health, peace, and safety. This decision upholds Burien’s authority to regulate encampments through its permitting process.
The City of Burien will hold its first Lunar New Year event on February 1, featuring a proclamation and free community celebration. The event marks the city’s inaugural recognition of the holiday with activities available to all residents at no cost.
The City of Burien hired Casey Headley as Finance Director, with Headley’s first day on December 2, 2024. Headley brings a collaborative and proactive approach to lead the city’s Finance Department.
The City of Burien is seeking community members to fill 13 open positions on local advisory boards, commissions, and committees. Interested residents with relevant expertise are encouraged to apply to help shape local laws and policy. Specific details about individual positions, application deadlines, and qualification requirements were not provided in this notice.
The City of Burien is seeking qualified individuals or organizations to serve as curator and event manager for the Arts-a-Glow Festival of Lights scheduled for Saturday, September 6, 2025. Interested applicants must submit qualifications for project and event management of this community festival. The city will evaluate submissions to select a qualified candidate to oversee the event.
On October 28, 2024, the Burien City Council adopted the Burien 2044 Comprehensive Plan, a blueprint guiding the city’s growth and development over the next 20 years. The plan was developed over two years through collaboration between city staff, the Planning Commission, community advisory groups, and residents.
The Green Burien Partnership is organizing environmental restoration events throughout Burien parks this fall as planting season begins in the Pacific Northwest. The initiative is seeking volunteers to participate in these restoration activities. Specific dates, park locations, and volunteer requirements were not detailed in the announcement.
Burien residents can now apply online to serve on temporary committees either supporting or opposing proposed Initiative Measure No. 24-001, which concerns labor standards. The City is accepting applications for both pro and con committees to allow community input on the measure. Interested residents can submit their applications through the city’s online portal.
The U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington granted the City of Burien’s Motion to Dismiss in a lawsuit filed by King County and King County Sheriff Patricia Cole-Tindall challenging the constitutionality of Ordinance 832. The court’s ruling represents a legal victory for the city. The specifics of Ordinance 832 and the grounds for King County’s challenge were not detailed in the announcement.
The City of Burien will observe National Welcoming Week from September 13-22, 2024, marking the fourth consecutive year of participation in this community celebration. The weeklong event aims to recognize and promote inclusivity and welcoming initiatives within the city during this designated period.
Burien City Manager Adolfo Bailon has selected Captain Tom Calabrese as the new police chief for the Burien Police Department. Calabrese has served as captain since April 2023 and is currently acting as interim chief. The appointment solidifies leadership at BPD following the interim period.
The City of Burien has initiated a process to select a new police chief for the Burien Police Department, which operates through personnel from the King County Sheriff’s Office. The selection will follow procedures outlined in the Interlocal Agreement with King County and will involve community, staff, and councilmember panels in identifying candidates.
On March 18, 2024, the Burien City Council adopted Ordinance BMC 5.15, establishing a citywide minimum wage effective January 1, 2025, with annual cost-of-living adjustments. The ordinance sets one of the nation’s highest minimum wage rates for the city.
The City of Burien raised the Pride flag at City Hall on June 4, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. to mark the start of LGBTQIA+ Pride Month. City Councilmembers and members of the Burien Pride Committee, which organizes the city’s annual Pride event, participated in the flag-raising ceremony.
The City of Burien is recruiting volunteers and station educators for StormFest, an interactive stormwater festival designed to educate over 1,000 sixth-grade students from Highline Public Schools about environmental stewardship. Community members interested in supporting the event can participate by leading educational stations at the festival.
The City of Burien is seeking artists to participate in the 2025 Burien Gallery Program, with applications due by Friday, August 23, 2024. Interested artists can apply to showcase their work through this city-sponsored program.
The City of Burien received a $1 million grant from King County to support a family shelter redevelopment project aimed at addressing family homelessness in the community. The city submitted an application for the funding, which was approved by the county.
The City of Burien filed a lawsuit against King County and the King County Sheriff’s Office over their refusal to enforce Burien Municipal Code 9.85.150 and their non-compliance with the Interlocal Agreement’s dispute resolution process. The action stems from a contractual obligation that all contract cities maintain with King County regarding enforcement procedures and conflict resolution mechanisms.
The City of Burien and the Asian Real Estate Association of America’s Greater Seattle chapter will host a free Real Estate & Business Expo at Burien Community Center in April, offering workshops designed for first-time homebuyers, existing homeowners, investors, and business owners. The event aims to support residents interested in homeownership and entrepreneurship through educational programming.
The King County Sheriff’s Office has directed its deputies not to enforce Burien’s public camping ordinance, violating the interlocal agreement under which King County provides contracted law enforcement services to the city. This directive prevents Burien from enforcing local regulations on public camping. The city is responding to this breach of the contracted law enforcement agreement.
The City of Burien is now accepting applications for its annual Neighborhood Grants Program, which funds projects designed to foster community engagement and create equitable improvements. The program aims to empower residents to lead initiatives that benefit their neighborhoods. Specific award amounts, application deadlines, and eligibility requirements were not provided in the announcement.
On January 8, 2024, the Burien City Council voted to elect Kevin Schilling as mayor for a two-year term and Stephanie Mora as deputy mayor for a one-year term. These leadership positions will guide the city’s governance and decision-making processes moving forward.
Eagle Landing Park in Burien will close to the public beginning Monday, November 27, 2023 for construction work on the Eagle Landing Park Stairway Project. The city did not specify an estimated completion date for the temporary closure.
The City of Burien is accepting nominations for its 2024 Citizen of the Year award, recognizing individuals or organizations that made outstanding contributions to the community in 2023. The award is presented by the Burien City Council. Residents can submit nominations to honor those who have significantly benefited the local area.
The City of Burien is hosting a “Shape Your City” Open House to gather community input on four major planning efforts aimed at reimagining the city’s long-term future. Residents are invited to review and provide feedback on planning concepts and drafts at the event. No specific date, location, or details about the four planning initiatives were provided in the announcement.
The Green Burien Partnership is hosting environmental restoration events throughout Burien parks this fall to mark the beginning of the Pacific Northwest planting season. These community events will focus on ecological restoration efforts across the city’s park system. Residents are invited to participate in the seasonal initiative.
The City of Burien and Discover Burien will host the third annual Welcoming Burien event during National Welcoming Week (September 8-17) at Town Square Park to bring neighbors together for community connection, play, and celebration.
The City of Burien is accepting applications for seven vacant positions on the Planning Commission, which advises the City Council on future growth through review and recommendations for the Comprehensive Plan and land use documents. Planning commissioners volunteer their time to help shape the community’s future development.
The City of Burien is accepting applications for seven open positions on the Burien Planning Commission, which advises the City Council on future growth through review and recommendations for the Comprehensive Plan and land use documents. Planning commissioners serve as volunteers helping to shape the community’s future development.
The City of Burien will temporarily close its Permit Center from July 24-28, 2023, to support the launch of a new online permit system designed to improve permit status tracking and customer service. The closure is necessary to complete final implementation tasks for the new system.
The Cities of Burien and Des Moines are offering Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to help residents prepare for emergencies and disasters. Participants who complete the course will receive a CERT certificate and gain skills to assist their family, neighborhood, and community during emergencies. The training aims to increase community preparedness and emergency response capacity.
The City of Burien’s Utility Tax Relief Program offers rebates on water, sewer, solid waste, electricity, telephone, and cable television taxes. Applications must be submitted by December 15, 2023, with rebates issued by the end of February 2024. Eligible residents should apply to receive tax relief on qualifying utility services.
The City of Burien launched a new Neighborhood Grants program offering up to $5,000 per project to foster community connections and improvements. Recipients must match grant funds with equal value in local resources, including volunteer labor, donated materials, professional services, or cash contributions.
The City of Burien is preparing residents for an expected hot and dry summer with increased wildfire and smoke risks. The city is providing summer safety guidance including cooling strategies for those without air conditioning and smoke protection recommendations for residents and families.
The City of Burien enforces penalties for illegal fireworks possession and discharge, with a “social host” ordinance holding property owners responsible for fireworks discharged on their premises. Residents are reminded these regulations are currently in effect to protect community safety.
On June 25, 2023, the City of Burien’s Pride flag was stolen from in front of City Hall, where it had been recently raised. The city issued a statement denouncing the theft of the flag.
The City of Burien is offering $5,000 non-repayable pandemic recovery grants to eligible small businesses to help offset ongoing economic impacts. The grants are available through the Small Business Economic Recovery Grant Program and do not require repayment. Interested businesses can apply for funding to support their recovery efforts.
The City of Burien is finalizing a lease agreement with nonprofit Burien CARES to operate a dog park on city-owned land at 6th Avenue SW between SW 151st and SW 152nd Streets. The lot currently hosts an unsanctioned encampment. Burien CARES already provides the city’s animal control services and will now manage the dog park facility.
The City of Burien will hold a Pride flag raising ceremony at Burien City Hall on June 1, 2023 from 10-10:30 a.m. to celebrate LGBTQIA+ Pride Month. The community is invited to attend the event.
On March 30, 2023, Councilmember Cydney Moore and Planning Commission Chair Charles Schaefer acted as private citizens when they shared information with encampment residents outside Burien Library/City Hall, encouraging them to relocate. The city clarified that Moore and Schaefer were not acting in their official capacities during this interaction.
The City of Burien and InnerActivate are offering a free workshop for local small businesses covering content creation, SEO optimization, Google Analytics, and social media planning tools. The workshop aims to help businesses strengthen their online presence and digital marketing capabilities. No specific date, time, or registration details were provided in the announcement.
The City of Burien is launching the second phase of its “Shape Your City” community engagement initiative to develop updates to the Comprehensive Plan, Transportation Master Plan, and Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan. Building on last year’s visioning phase where residents shared priorities, the city will now gather input to create specific strategies and solutions based on the community’s established vision and goals.
The Burien Condo Association began enforcing a new policy today that prohibits overnight camping on Burien Library and City Hall property. The enforcement action represents a change in the city’s approach to managing overnight encampments in these public spaces.
Vicky Hartley has been selected by the Burien City Council as the 2023 Burien Citizen of the Year. The award recognizes her contributions and service to the community.
The City of Burien and InnerActivate are hosting a free workshop for local small businesses focused on social media marketing, covering the value, dynamics, and best practices of building an online presence. The workshop aims to help Burien entrepreneurs enhance their digital marketing strategies at no cost to participants.
The City of Burien will celebrate its 30th anniversary of incorporation on February 28, 2023, with year-long festivities planned throughout the community. The city is partnering with local organizations to integrate the 30th anniversary theme into community events, social media, and special publications, and is inviting residents to incorporate the theme into their own events and programs.
The City of Burien has launched a paid forest steward program to create employment opportunities for underrepresented communities while enhancing urban forestry management in local parks and greenspaces. The program empowers residents to take active ownership roles in maintaining and stewarding their neighborhood green spaces. Specific details regarding the number of positions, compensation amounts, or implementation timeline were not provided in the announcement.
The City of Burien launched a Storefront Repair Grant Program offering up to $1,000 per business to reimburse costs for repairing windows or door glass damaged by vandalism or property crime. The program aims to support small business owners in the community affected by storefront damage. Eligible businesses can apply for reimbursement through the city.
The Burien City Council approved a two-year budget on December 5, 2022, that maintains existing programs and services while increasing funding for human services, arts, and culture. The budget prioritizes key areas of need through strategic investments in these sectors.
The City of Burien has released an updated Renting in Burien Handbook available in both English and Spanish on its website at burienwa.gov/renting. The handbook reflects recent updates to the city’s rental housing policy and is designed to provide information to renters in the community.
Burien Police Chief Theodore “Ted” Boe declined a promotion to Patrol Operations Division Chief with the King County Sheriff’s Office to remain in his current position serving the City of Burien.
The City of Burien is hosting a virtual visioning workshop on November 3, 2022 from 6-8 p.m. via Zoom to gather community input on what Burien should look like in 2044, including aspects of living, working, playing, and shopping in the city. The workshop aims to help the city plan for its future based on resident perspectives.
Burien Police Chief Theodore “Ted” Boe accepted a promotion to Chief of Patrol Operations Division for the King County Sheriff’s Office, effective January 1, 2023. This move transfers Boe from his local leadership position to a countywide role within the sheriff’s office.
The City of Burien launched a neighborhood matching fund program to support community projects that increase tree canopy cover throughout the city while promoting equitable distribution. The fund incentivizes resident participation by requiring matching contributions from neighborhoods seeking to expand their tree coverage. This initiative aims to strengthen community engagement while addressing environmental goals related to urban forest expansion.
The City of Burien and Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle are partnering to offer paid summer internships for local youth focused on digital marketing and job skills development. The program aims to support both Burien residents entering the workforce and local businesses seeking marketing assistance. Specific program dates, internship positions available, and funding amounts were not detailed in the announcement.