Active Issues

Tracked civic issues with sources. No spin.

high Social Services

Homelessness & Encampments

2026-03

Active

Over 14,000 people experiencing homelessness in King County. City sweeps policy under legal challenge. HOPE Team response times averaging 8+ days.

Sources: Seattle TimesKing County DCHS
high Public Safety

Drug Public Use Enforcement

2026-02

Contested

SB 5536 made public drug use a misdemeanor in 2023 after Blake decision. Enforcement inconsistent. LEAD diversion program underfunded.

Sources: WA State LegislatureSeattle Police
high Housing

Housing Affordability Crisis

2026-01

In Progress

Median home $874K. Rental vacancy rate 4.2%. Missing Middle Housing legislation passed 2023. Implementation ongoing.

Sources: ZillowSeattle DCI
medium Public Safety

SPOG Contract Negotiations

2026-03

Ongoing

Seattle Police Officers Guild contract lapse. Accountability provisions in new contract language being negotiated. Understaffing at 300+ officers.

Sources: Seattle Office of Labor Relations
low Infrastructure

SR-99 Waterfront Replacement

2025-11

In Progress

Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement waterfront development ongoing. Park construction delayed. Cost overruns +$340M above original estimate.

Sources: Seattle Waterfront Project