WEBVTT 00:00:04.267 --> 00:00:06.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Hello, I'm your host, Brian Callanan. 00:00:06.868 --> 00:00:09.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% How comfortable is the Seattle City Council 00:00:09.133 --> 00:00:11.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% using the Jumpstart payroll tax 00:00:11.167 --> 00:00:14.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to plug up a major hole in the city's budget? 00:00:14.434 --> 00:00:17.100 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% Plus, how will the failed plan to build a homeless shelter 00:00:17.100 --> 00:00:20.901 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% in the Chinatown-ID neighborhood affect our homelessness crisis? 00:00:20.901 --> 00:00:23.267 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% And what impact will a new city fund 00:00:23.267 --> 00:00:26.234 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% to clean up vandalism have on local businesses? 00:00:26.234 --> 00:00:28.734 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% Council members Andrew Lewis and Sara Nelson 00:00:28.734 --> 00:00:30.834 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% answer these questions and the ones you're sending 00:00:30.834 --> 00:00:33.033 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% in, too, next on "Council Edition." 00:00:33.200 --> 00:00:35.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -This is an example of us 00:00:35.400 --> 00:00:37.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% listening to what is really needed 00:00:37.167 --> 00:00:38.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% from our small business community, 00:00:38.934 --> 00:00:40.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% not often brought to the table. 00:00:40.334 --> 00:00:44.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -When we make a choice to forego shelter options, 00:00:44.133 --> 00:00:47.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% we're basically saying we want tents to stay in the street. 00:00:47.200 --> 00:00:49.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -All that and more coming up next on "City 00:00:49.701 --> 00:00:51.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Inside Out Council Edition." 00:01:10.334 --> 00:01:11.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And here they are. 00:01:11.634 --> 00:01:13.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Councilmember Andrew Lewis from district 00:01:13.234 --> 00:01:15.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% seven which, as of mid-October, 00:01:15.067 --> 00:01:17.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% reaches from Pioneer Square up to Magnolia. 00:01:17.534 --> 00:01:20.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Just so we got that on the districting deal here. 00:01:20.234 --> 00:01:21.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Thank you very much for being here. 00:01:21.534 --> 00:01:22.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. Good to be here. 00:01:22.567 --> 00:01:23.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And in person once again. 00:01:23.968 --> 00:01:26.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And of course, we are also with Councilmember Sara Nelson 00:01:26.801 --> 00:01:27.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in the city-wide position there. 00:01:27.968 --> 00:01:29.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Thank you for being here as well. 00:01:29.267 --> 00:01:30.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Thank you for having me. 00:01:30.467 --> 00:01:31.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -All right. Let's dive right into it. 00:01:31.901 --> 00:01:34.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I really appreciate both of you being here during what is, 00:01:34.234 --> 00:01:36.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I know, a very busy time with the budget. 00:01:36.601 --> 00:01:38.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I want to dig into this big question 00:01:38.000 --> 00:01:42.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% of figuring out this $141 million budget gap here. 00:01:42.367 --> 00:01:44.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, quick backstory here, folks. 00:01:44.400 --> 00:01:46.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% The mayor is proposing some Jumpstart payroll tax money 00:01:46.667 --> 00:01:48.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to help with that deficit now and going into the future. 00:01:48.968 --> 00:01:51.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But the council passed an ordinance last year saying, 00:01:51.667 --> 00:01:55.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% okay, if general funds fall below about $1.5 billion, 00:01:55.367 --> 00:01:57.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% then we can use Jumpstart to fill the gap. 00:01:57.000 --> 00:01:59.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But this is going to be a short-term fix. 00:01:59.133 --> 00:02:01.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, now as I understand it, the mayor is saying well, 00:02:01.067 --> 00:02:03.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Council, how about you amend that ordinance? 00:02:03.133 --> 00:02:04.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Tie this to inflation. 00:02:04.501 --> 00:02:06.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Let's use Jumpstart as potentially a permanent way 00:02:06.868 --> 00:02:08.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to fill a structural budget gap. 00:02:08.834 --> 00:02:10.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Councilmember Lewis, let me know what I missed there. 00:02:10.501 --> 00:02:13.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And if you would, your thoughts on what to do about Jumpstart, 00:02:13.400 --> 00:02:16.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% which the Council established as primarily a fund for housing? 00:02:16.801 --> 00:02:18.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. Well, where I start with that 00:02:18.267 --> 00:02:21.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% is going back in time to 2020 when the Council put together 00:02:21.200 --> 00:02:23.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the unanimously passed Jumpstart spend plan. 00:02:23.968 --> 00:02:26.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% There was a little bit of division over the tax itself. 00:02:26.567 --> 00:02:28.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But the spend plan was unanimous. 00:02:28.601 --> 00:02:31.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Because if you, you know, if we go back to that time, 00:02:31.167 --> 00:02:32.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% we were dealing with a lot of 00:02:32.267 --> 00:02:33.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the same pressures around homelessness, 00:02:33.801 --> 00:02:37.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% which still rates very highly as the top concern of voters. 00:02:37.601 --> 00:02:39.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Housing affordability, housing insecurity, 00:02:39.834 --> 00:02:41.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% these are the things we created Jumpstart 00:02:41.601 --> 00:02:45.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to make a big, proactive additive difference on. 00:02:45.133 --> 00:02:47.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I think we need to stay true to that promise 00:02:47.501 --> 00:02:49.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that we made to the coalition that helped pass that 00:02:49.834 --> 00:02:51.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and keep making those investments. 00:02:51.367 --> 00:02:54.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I mean, we're making a game-changing investment 00:02:54.434 --> 00:02:57.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in housing, you know, almost a quarter billion dollars 00:02:57.501 --> 00:02:59.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in this next biannual budget, 00:02:59.033 --> 00:03:00.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% which is going to make a huge difference 00:03:00.601 --> 00:03:02.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that's going to be felt. 00:03:02.033 --> 00:03:04.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We need to make sure we can sustain that into the future. 00:03:04.734 --> 00:03:06.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, for the short-term, 00:03:06.267 --> 00:03:09.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to make sure that the gaps in this biennium are filled in, 00:03:09.601 --> 00:03:11.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% we certainly need to work with Mayor Harrell 00:03:11.601 --> 00:03:13.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% on the plan he's put forward for the biennium 00:03:13.801 --> 00:03:15.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to make sure that we're using some of that Jumpstart money 00:03:15.934 --> 00:03:17.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to plug that gap. 00:03:17.300 --> 00:03:19.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% In terms of going forward, I think that we should wait 00:03:19.734 --> 00:03:22.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and see the recovery of the general fund plan 00:03:22.167 --> 00:03:25.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% before we make that commitment of do we revisit the spend plan? 00:03:25.501 --> 00:03:27.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I think it all has to be on the table. 00:03:27.267 --> 00:03:29.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I don't think it's a decision we need to make this year. 00:03:29.567 --> 00:03:32.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I think that we should dig in, 00:03:32.367 --> 00:03:34.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% make the commitment we need to, to close this gap. 00:03:34.534 --> 00:03:36.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And then, if the issue arises again in the future, 00:03:36.868 --> 00:03:39.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% everything needs to be on the table to meet that obligation. 00:03:39.734 --> 00:03:41.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And I know Councilmember Mosqueda, 00:03:41.133 --> 00:03:43.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the budget chair, is working on some new options, too, 00:03:43.400 --> 00:03:44.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% potentially for taxing 00:03:44.567 --> 00:03:46.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% which we'll talk about I know later on. 00:03:46.801 --> 00:03:49.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But Councilmember Nelson, your thoughts about Jumpstart? 00:03:49.033 --> 00:03:50.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% How to deal with this budget gap 00:03:50.200 --> 00:03:52.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that is growing right now in Seattle. 00:03:52.267 --> 00:03:54.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Well, we have to pay our bills, first of all. 00:03:54.200 --> 00:03:57.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, the mayor's proposed budget does that. 00:03:57.934 --> 00:03:59.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And going forward, 00:03:59.300 --> 00:04:03.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I'm looking at long-term sustainability of our budget. 00:04:03.300 --> 00:04:07.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And so much has changed between 2019 00:04:07.434 --> 00:04:12.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% when the inflation adjustments for contracts was established. 00:04:12.968 --> 00:04:14.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Then the world changed in 2020. 00:04:14.968 --> 00:04:16.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Right. -We have a lot more expenses. 00:04:16.534 --> 00:04:22.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I believe that the Human Services budget itself went up, 00:04:22.601 --> 00:04:28.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% is about 36% more now from 2019. So, we're wrestling with a lot. 00:04:28.267 --> 00:04:32.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I think that we have to do both. 00:04:32.267 --> 00:04:34.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Be concerned about how we're spending existing money 00:04:34.734 --> 00:04:37.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and also how we're making decisions 00:04:37.200 --> 00:04:39.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% about what is sustainable going forward. 00:04:39.200 --> 00:04:41.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Got it. So, would it be accurate to say 00:04:41.267 --> 00:04:42.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% you wouldn't like to see jumpstarted 00:04:42.567 --> 00:04:44.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% be a permanent answer there for these budget gaps? 00:04:44.834 --> 00:04:46.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I know I heard that a little bit for Councilmember Lewis. 00:04:46.801 --> 00:04:48.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Your thoughts on that? 00:04:48.133 --> 00:04:50.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -We need to look at the budget as a whole. 00:04:50.634 --> 00:04:55.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And so, if we're going to be having this conversation 00:04:55.033 --> 00:04:57.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in another two years, that is a fundamental problem. 00:04:57.868 --> 00:04:59.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. Okay. All right. 00:04:59.100 --> 00:05:00.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Now, thank you for breaking these pieces down. 00:05:00.934 --> 00:05:02.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I want to talk about budget priorities 00:05:02.334 --> 00:05:03.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because we're just about a week away 00:05:03.968 --> 00:05:06.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% from the budget deliberations stage of the budget. 00:05:06.100 --> 00:05:08.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And, by the way, I have pinned the Council's new 00:05:08.434 --> 00:05:09.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% demystifying the budget page 00:05:09.767 --> 00:05:11.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% at the top of my Twitter at @callananseattle. 00:05:11.701 --> 00:05:13.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Check it out. Great way to track the action there. 00:05:13.434 --> 00:05:15.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But this is the time council members are really coming up 00:05:15.667 --> 00:05:18.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% with amendments to the budget projects you'd like to fund. 00:05:18.300 --> 00:05:19.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Councilmember Nelson, you chair 00:05:19.434 --> 00:05:20.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the Economic Development Committee. 00:05:20.968 --> 00:05:22.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Is it more help for local businesses 00:05:22.801 --> 00:05:23.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% or what are you considering? 00:05:23.934 --> 00:05:25.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Give us a preview if you would, please. 00:05:25.801 --> 00:05:30.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -I am very, I am impressed with how much OED 00:05:30.167 --> 00:05:31.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% has been able to do this year with -- 00:05:31.901 --> 00:05:32.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Office of Economic Development. 00:05:32.968 --> 00:05:34.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yes. -Keep going. Yep. 00:05:34.300 --> 00:05:37.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -With getting funding directly into the hands 00:05:37.300 --> 00:05:41.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% of small business owners that need it, 00:05:41.000 --> 00:05:43.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% particularly in in BIPOC neighborhoods. 00:05:43.667 --> 00:05:48.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And so, I want to make sure that that funding stays intact. 00:05:48.033 --> 00:05:51.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I have a priority that doesn't necessarily 00:05:51.734 --> 00:05:56.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% have to do with economic development. 00:05:56.100 --> 00:05:57.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. 00:05:57.200 --> 00:05:59.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -But it has to do with root causes. 00:05:59.133 --> 00:06:02.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And that is making addiction treatment 00:06:02.400 --> 00:06:06.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% more readily available. Because we are, because so much 00:06:06.934 --> 00:06:08.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% of the challenges that we face in Seattle 00:06:08.834 --> 00:06:14.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% right now, I believe, are due to the fact that we are, 00:06:14.234 --> 00:06:17.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% it's too difficult to get treatment 00:06:17.300 --> 00:06:19.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to actually recover from an addiction. 00:06:19.968 --> 00:06:22.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And that has downstream effects that impact 00:06:22.634 --> 00:06:24.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% not just the city's bottom line 00:06:24.100 --> 00:06:26.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% but, more fundamentally, human lives. 00:06:26.434 --> 00:06:27.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Got it. Okay. 00:06:27.934 --> 00:06:29.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I'm going to follow up on that issue in just a little bit. 00:06:29.234 --> 00:06:31.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Thank you for bringing it up. Councilmember Lewis, 00:06:31.067 --> 00:06:32.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% you chair the city's Committee on Homelessness. 00:06:32.701 --> 00:06:35.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Is it more funding for the regional homelessness committee? 00:06:35.501 --> 00:06:37.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Or what are you going to be proposing here 00:06:37.300 --> 00:06:38.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in the next couple of weeks? 00:06:38.567 --> 00:06:40.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Well, the question that's been posed to us 00:06:40.033 --> 00:06:41.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in issue identification last week 00:06:41.801 --> 00:06:44.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% is how can we reconcile some of the things 00:06:44.501 --> 00:06:46.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that the city wants to do with some of the ambitions 00:06:46.834 --> 00:06:48.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% of the King County Regional Homeless Authority. 00:06:48.501 --> 00:06:50.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I'll just break it down a little bit. 00:06:50.167 --> 00:06:51.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. -So, we've got a Partnership 00:06:51.801 --> 00:06:54.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for Zero agreement between We Are In, 00:06:54.367 --> 00:06:57.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% a consortium of business and philanthropic partners 00:06:57.534 --> 00:06:59.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% with the county and with the city. 00:06:59.667 --> 00:07:01.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Where we are working to get to functional zero 00:07:01.667 --> 00:07:03.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in chronic homelessness in the downtown core 00:07:03.968 --> 00:07:06.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% by early next year. 00:07:06.267 --> 00:07:08.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% That includes a lot of outreach components 00:07:08.167 --> 00:07:09.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% like the system navigators. 00:07:09.400 --> 00:07:10.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% People have lived experience who work 00:07:10.968 --> 00:07:13.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for the King County Regional homelessness authority, 00:07:13.267 --> 00:07:16.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% moving people through a by-name list 00:07:16.334 --> 00:07:19.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that are in downtown into housing, into shelter. 00:07:19.601 --> 00:07:21.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Getting them the wraparound services 00:07:21.067 --> 00:07:22.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and the assistance that they need. 00:07:22.734 --> 00:07:24.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We need to make sure that we reconcile 00:07:24.300 --> 00:07:26.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that work with the Unified Care Team, 00:07:26.667 --> 00:07:29.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% which is an idea that's been advanced by Mayor Harrell. 00:07:29.868 --> 00:07:31.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I, you know, I think it's a good idea. 00:07:31.501 --> 00:07:34.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Like, I appreciate the work that's been done 00:07:34.501 --> 00:07:35.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% on the Unified Care Team 00:07:35.834 --> 00:07:38.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to take care of a lot of the issues 00:07:38.267 --> 00:07:40.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that were associated with the old Navigation Team 00:07:40.367 --> 00:07:41.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and, kind of, come forward 00:07:41.567 --> 00:07:45.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% with a reconfigured way to do outreach 00:07:45.033 --> 00:07:48.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and to do encampment remediations in the city. 00:07:48.834 --> 00:07:52.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But we need to make sure there's not a duplicative resource. 00:07:52.667 --> 00:07:53.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We need to make sure that 00:07:53.868 --> 00:07:55.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the King County Regional Homeless Authority 00:07:55.534 --> 00:07:57.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and the Human Services Department 00:07:57.067 --> 00:07:59.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% where the Unified Care Team is going to be housed, 00:07:59.300 --> 00:08:01.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that we are really reconciling clear roles 00:08:01.534 --> 00:08:03.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for both of those functions. 00:08:03.033 --> 00:08:05.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And then, we are funding accordingly. 00:08:05.133 --> 00:08:07.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% The bottom line is we have to work backwards 00:08:07.334 --> 00:08:08.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% from what we're seeing on the street 00:08:08.834 --> 00:08:10.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and what we're hearing from our constituents in the city, 00:08:10.901 --> 00:08:12.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% both housed and unhoused, 00:08:12.534 --> 00:08:15.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% about the need to address the homelessness crisis. 00:08:15.601 --> 00:08:17.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Which involves getting people off the street, 00:08:17.200 --> 00:08:19.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% getting them into housing, getting them into shelter. 00:08:19.701 --> 00:08:23.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And organize our resources accordingly to meet that goal. 00:08:23.968 --> 00:08:26.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, there's a lot of stuff in play early in the budget. 00:08:26.567 --> 00:08:29.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I'm hoping that we can put it all together 00:08:29.200 --> 00:08:32.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for the comprehensive plan that Mayor Harrell and the KCRHA 00:08:32.634 --> 00:08:34.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and the Council want to create. 00:08:34.033 --> 00:08:35.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Thank you. 00:08:35.234 --> 00:08:36.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And let me throw another budget issue out there. 00:08:36.467 --> 00:08:38.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And Councilmember Lewis, I'll start with you here. 00:08:38.367 --> 00:08:40.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I want you to speak to the plan the council and mayor 00:08:40.100 --> 00:08:42.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% are working on regarding an alternate, 00:08:42.267 --> 00:08:43.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% an alternative to 9-1-1. 00:08:43.734 --> 00:08:47.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, an agency that can respond to less acute emergency calls 00:08:47.100 --> 00:08:48.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% like welfare checks, for example. 00:08:48.667 --> 00:08:50.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% The mayor and council now have a term sheet, 00:08:50.634 --> 00:08:52.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% an agreement that says we're going to have 00:08:52.167 --> 00:08:53.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% a plan for this by the end of the year. 00:08:53.434 --> 00:08:55.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We're going to launch something in 2023. 00:08:55.634 --> 00:08:57.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Is this something you're working into the budget? 00:08:57.367 --> 00:08:59.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Can you take us into that process, please? 00:08:59.367 --> 00:09:01.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yes. There's a $2 million line item 00:09:01.834 --> 00:09:03.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in the budget Mayor Harrell 00:09:03.133 --> 00:09:06.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% proposed to support this work on an ongoing basis. 00:09:06.868 --> 00:09:09.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% That's probably a sufficient amount of money. 00:09:09.167 --> 00:09:10.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% When we look at some of these other cities, 00:09:10.934 --> 00:09:12.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% these alternative responses 00:09:12.567 --> 00:09:14.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% don't tend to cost very much money. 00:09:14.434 --> 00:09:17.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, you can have a pretty significant impact. 00:09:17.100 --> 00:09:19.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I think the original pilot for the Denver STAR program 00:09:19.934 --> 00:09:22.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% was only like half a million dollars. 00:09:22.033 --> 00:09:24.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, $2 million is enough at least to have a pilot 00:09:24.834 --> 00:09:27.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to test the viability of an alternative response like this. 00:09:27.934 --> 00:09:29.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Lots of other cities are doing it. 00:09:29.567 --> 00:09:30.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We're going to be a late adapter, 00:09:30.901 --> 00:09:32.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% but better late than never. 00:09:32.501 --> 00:09:34.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I give a lot of credit to Mayor Harrell and his team 00:09:34.901 --> 00:09:36.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for helping us formulate a way 00:09:36.701 --> 00:09:39.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to efficiently get through the work with the term sheet. 00:09:39.601 --> 00:09:41.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. -And that is paying dividends. 00:09:41.701 --> 00:09:45.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I mean, it's leading to some actual material progress. 00:09:45.100 --> 00:09:48.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% The council central staff and the mayor's team 00:09:48.000 --> 00:09:49.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% are meeting all of their deadlines 00:09:49.434 --> 00:09:51.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that we've assigned as part of that process. 00:09:51.934 --> 00:09:53.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And we're working through it in good faith. 00:09:53.601 --> 00:09:55.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -They got a budget to you recently, I think, on that. 00:09:55.501 --> 00:09:56.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yes. -Did that come through? 00:09:56.400 --> 00:09:57.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yes. -Okay. 00:09:57.300 --> 00:09:58.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. And there was some money 00:09:58.534 --> 00:10:01.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in the mayor's initial proposal last month, 00:10:01.300 --> 00:10:03.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% parked to fund 00:10:03.701 --> 00:10:05.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% whatever ultimately came from this process. 00:10:05.367 --> 00:10:08.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, they're clearly acting in strong partnership with us. 00:10:08.601 --> 00:10:09.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. 00:10:09.701 --> 00:10:10.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And I think that's going to be 00:10:10.801 --> 00:10:12.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% one of the really game-changing components 00:10:12.934 --> 00:10:16.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that comes out of this budget. Because by 2023's budget, 00:10:16.467 --> 00:10:18.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% when we drew up the biennial budget -- 00:10:18.133 --> 00:10:19.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. --- we could be in position 00:10:19.567 --> 00:10:22.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to potentially expand something if the pilot is promising. 00:10:22.200 --> 00:10:24.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. Thank you for that. Councilmember Nelson, 00:10:24.033 --> 00:10:26.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I heard you talk about addiction treatment, either earlier. 00:10:26.868 --> 00:10:27.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I know you've talked in the past 00:10:27.934 --> 00:10:30.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% about creating community safety hubs 00:10:30.267 --> 00:10:31.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to help deal with behavioral health 00:10:31.667 --> 00:10:33.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and things of this nature. Do you have any thoughts about 00:10:33.868 --> 00:10:38.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% what a new third public safety agency could look like? 00:10:38.033 --> 00:10:43.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Well, it's interesting because we cannot. 00:10:43.033 --> 00:10:46.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% The budget is presented to us as buckets of 00:10:46.133 --> 00:10:47.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in categories, line items. -Right, 00:10:47.667 --> 00:10:50.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And to me, when we're talking about the care team 00:10:50.968 --> 00:10:52.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and addiction treatment 00:10:52.801 --> 00:10:55.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and an alternative police response, 00:10:55.267 --> 00:10:58.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% we're talking about how do we help people in crisis. 00:10:58.467 --> 00:11:03.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And so, I believe that the care team 00:11:03.534 --> 00:11:08.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% will provide a binding list geographically distributed. 00:11:08.000 --> 00:11:09.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% You know, there will be teams all over the city. 00:11:09.601 --> 00:11:12.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% This is more coordination, it's more boots on the ground. 00:11:12.767 --> 00:11:14.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% That can help. 00:11:14.133 --> 00:11:18.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And obviously, making sure that when somebody is ready 00:11:18.934 --> 00:11:21.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to try to get off drugs, 00:11:21.968 --> 00:11:24.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% they have those options readily available. 00:11:24.601 --> 00:11:28.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And this will also help with our public safety needs 00:11:28.901 --> 00:11:30.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because it's all connected. 00:11:30.133 --> 00:11:33.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, when, it's difficult for me 00:11:33.200 --> 00:11:35.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to think of these things, separately. 00:11:35.734 --> 00:11:40.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But I do see some areas where there are overlapping needs. 00:11:40.000 --> 00:11:42.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I hope that my colleagues look at the big picture 00:11:42.901 --> 00:11:44.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% when we're making our decisions. 00:11:44.133 --> 00:11:45.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Right. It sounds like overlapping needs, 00:11:45.567 --> 00:11:47.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% but also trying to make sure they go in the right buckets, 00:11:47.834 --> 00:11:49.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% as you were saying earlier. 00:11:49.100 --> 00:11:51.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Well, look. Having a tight budget cycle 00:11:51.300 --> 00:11:54.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% means we need to have a really keen eye for spotting redundancy 00:11:54.801 --> 00:11:57.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and doing consolidation where appropriate. 00:11:57.133 --> 00:11:58.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:11:58.567 --> 00:11:59.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And making sure there's not overlap of authority. 00:11:59.701 --> 00:12:01.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I mean, when I talk to first responders, 00:12:01.133 --> 00:12:05.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% you know, be they, you know, CoLEAD or REACH or, 00:12:05.100 --> 00:12:06.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% you know, the fire department, the police department -- 00:12:06.734 --> 00:12:09.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Sure. --- whoever I'm talking to, 00:12:09.968 --> 00:12:11.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% crossed lines and redundancy 00:12:11.601 --> 00:12:14.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% can also lead to inaction in some cases. 00:12:14.000 --> 00:12:15.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:12:15.400 --> 00:12:16.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -It's not clear who's supposed to go to something. 00:12:16.300 --> 00:12:17.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. 00:12:17.434 --> 00:12:18.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -You know, who is bailiwick is it in? 00:12:18.133 --> 00:12:19.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. Right. 00:12:19.634 --> 00:12:22.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -So, just making sure that as we're funding these services, 00:12:22.434 --> 00:12:24.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% they're all being reconciled into a strategic plan 00:12:24.901 --> 00:12:27.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that really only the executive can harmonize. 00:12:27.567 --> 00:12:28.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:12:28.634 --> 00:12:30.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And seeing how we can use our power 00:12:30.167 --> 00:12:31.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% as the Council to structure, 00:12:31.934 --> 00:12:33.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% you know, oversight requirements, 00:12:33.300 --> 00:12:35.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% reporting requirements, performance auditing, 00:12:35.734 --> 00:12:37.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to make sure there's accountability. 00:12:37.133 --> 00:12:38.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% To make sure we see 00:12:38.601 --> 00:12:40.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that result on the investment that we're making. 00:12:40.634 --> 00:12:42.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. 00:12:42.000 --> 00:12:43.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -To make sure that these things are working together. 00:12:43.133 --> 00:12:43.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Thank you for that. 00:12:43.968 --> 00:12:44.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -May I? -Please. Yeah. 00:12:44.734 --> 00:12:46.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -You know, I am so glad 00:12:46.000 --> 00:12:47.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that you brought up accountability. 00:12:47.501 --> 00:12:51.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And you, because what's on the line is public trust. 00:12:51.334 --> 00:12:54.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% They want to see progress on our major issues. 00:12:54.434 --> 00:12:56.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, when we're talking about avoiding redundancies 00:12:56.834 --> 00:12:58.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% or better coordination, 00:12:58.567 --> 00:13:04.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% we have to make sure that that the, our human service contracts 00:13:04.200 --> 00:13:07.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% are meeting performance expectations. 00:13:07.267 --> 00:13:08.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. No, that's a huge part of this. 00:13:08.701 --> 00:13:11.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I want to move on to some viewer questions 00:13:11.100 --> 00:13:13.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because we got in a few about the budget. 00:13:13.033 --> 00:13:14.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And thank you for your feedback, 00:13:14.200 --> 00:13:16.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% everybody who has been diving in on this. 00:13:16.634 --> 00:13:17.734 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% Councilmember Lewis, you're up first. 00:13:17.734 --> 00:13:19.834 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% Here's a note from Carl, who writes this, 00:13:19.834 --> 00:13:22.167 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% "Funding for digital equity is down 30% 00:13:22.167 --> 00:13:23.801 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% this year compared to last year. 00:13:23.801 --> 00:13:25.801 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% What are we doing to ensure we're appropriately 00:13:25.801 --> 00:13:28.834 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% funding digital equity initiatives in Seattle?" 00:13:28.834 --> 00:13:30.067 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% Carl, thank you for the email there. 00:13:30.067 --> 00:13:32.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Some thoughts on this Councilmember Lewis. 00:13:32.868 --> 00:13:35.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. I mean, I think that we should build on the work 00:13:35.534 --> 00:13:37.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that we're doing with the Seattle Public Library 00:13:37.367 --> 00:13:39.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and the library system to make sure 00:13:39.334 --> 00:13:41.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that more of our collections 00:13:41.100 --> 00:13:44.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and our archives are translated to the digital realm. 00:13:44.801 --> 00:13:47.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, people don't have to go all the way downtown 00:13:47.567 --> 00:13:49.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to the central library. 00:13:49.033 --> 00:13:52.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% They don't have to go, you know, search through microfilms 00:13:52.400 --> 00:13:54.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and, you know, little like, 00:13:54.400 --> 00:13:56.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% no carded, you know, cabinets and everything. 00:13:56.334 --> 00:13:57.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Sure. 00:13:57.400 --> 00:13:58.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -There's just an online database 00:13:58.501 --> 00:14:01.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% where they can find digitized records, 00:14:01.400 --> 00:14:02.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% scanned, digitized records. 00:14:02.901 --> 00:14:04.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. We called that the card catalog when I was a young man. 00:14:04.334 --> 00:14:05.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Exactly. -Yeah. You were saying. 00:14:05.601 --> 00:14:06.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. No, I was trying to remember, you know. 00:14:06.634 --> 00:14:08.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -No, no, no. Old guy over here. Yeah. 00:14:08.133 --> 00:14:09.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. Yeah. 00:14:09.467 --> 00:14:12.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, you know, the library has been a big leader 00:14:12.434 --> 00:14:13.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in doing a lot of that work. 00:14:13.834 --> 00:14:16.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Some of that was funded in our last library levy renewal. 00:14:16.534 --> 00:14:18.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, continuing to work with the library, 00:14:18.267 --> 00:14:21.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% which sits under my committee, to put more of their resources 00:14:21.901 --> 00:14:23.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% into the digital realm, make it searchable, 00:14:23.801 --> 00:14:26.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% make it accessible internationally online 00:14:26.334 --> 00:14:27.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% is something we should be working on. 00:14:27.701 --> 00:14:29.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. I Got a fun question 00:14:29.400 --> 00:14:32.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Councilmember Nelson about, from Eric about housing. 00:14:32.200 --> 00:14:35.467 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% So, here we go. Seattle hasn't funded 00:14:35.467 --> 00:14:36.734 align:middle line:93% position:50% size:90% housing choice vouchers 00:14:36.734 --> 00:14:39.801 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% since February 2017. "The system you are funding 00:14:39.801 --> 00:14:41.667 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% instead gives money to developers 00:14:41.667 --> 00:14:43.400 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% to set aside units as affordable, 00:14:43.400 --> 00:14:45.400 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% then creates a bureaucratic nightmare," 00:14:45.400 --> 00:14:47.300 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% Eric writes, "for getting one of those units. 00:14:47.300 --> 00:14:48.834 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% Wouldn't it be better for everyone 00:14:48.834 --> 00:14:50.834 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% if you just helped people afford market-rate housing?" 00:14:50.834 --> 00:14:52.200 align:middle line:87% position:50% size:90% So, folks, just a background on this. 00:14:52.200 --> 00:14:54.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% This is the program the Seattle Housing Authority 00:14:54.501 --> 00:14:55.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% used to administer with the lottery, 00:14:55.634 --> 00:14:57.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% formerly known as a Section 8. 00:14:57.100 --> 00:14:59.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% There hasn't been a new lottery in five years. 00:14:59.300 --> 00:15:01.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Councilmember Nelson, any thoughts on this idea 00:15:01.200 --> 00:15:02.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% of housing choice vouchers 00:15:02.567 --> 00:15:03.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% brought up by one of our viewers? 00:15:03.934 --> 00:15:07.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Well, I'm not well-versed on in that program. 00:15:07.000 --> 00:15:08.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. 00:15:08.400 --> 00:15:12.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -But I can say that we need to preserve our existing, 00:15:12.033 --> 00:15:14.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% naturally affordable stock of housing, 00:15:14.100 --> 00:15:17.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% make sure that those units do not go off the market, 00:15:17.467 --> 00:15:21.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and be replaced with market-rate units 00:15:21.067 --> 00:15:24.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that are brand new and even less affordable. 00:15:24.601 --> 00:15:26.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. -So, that's one thing. 00:15:26.067 --> 00:15:29.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And make sure that when we are, again, 00:15:29.367 --> 00:15:31.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I'm going to hit on direct funding. 00:15:31.367 --> 00:15:35.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Why can't we just, how about making sure 00:15:35.200 --> 00:15:39.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that we are providing rent assistance still? 00:15:39.968 --> 00:15:41.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:15:41.400 --> 00:15:47.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And perhaps also thinking about, what am I trying to say? 00:15:47.634 --> 00:15:53.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Making sure that we are preventing homelessness by, 00:15:53.734 --> 00:15:55.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% there have been suggestions 00:15:55.100 --> 00:15:56.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% about permanent rental assistance. 00:15:56.667 --> 00:15:57.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:15:57.767 --> 00:15:59.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -So, it's all about making sure 00:15:59.267 --> 00:16:02.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that there are different levels of housing that are available. 00:16:02.200 --> 00:16:04.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And we can't just look at deeply subsidized. 00:16:04.667 --> 00:16:07.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We also have to think about workforce 00:16:07.167 --> 00:16:09.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and keeping people in the homes that they have. 00:16:09.067 --> 00:16:10.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -That's fair. Thank you for that. 00:16:10.334 --> 00:16:11.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I want to move on to another issue 00:16:11.901 --> 00:16:14.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% regarding the expansion of a homeless shelter 00:16:14.000 --> 00:16:16.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that King County had planned for the Chinatown-ID neighborhood. 00:16:16.667 --> 00:16:18.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, King County recently scrapped 00:16:18.400 --> 00:16:20.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that plan after public comments like this one 00:16:20.667 --> 00:16:22.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% at the Seattle City Council's full council meeting 00:16:22.934 --> 00:16:24.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% about a month ago. 00:16:24.200 --> 00:16:27.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -[Speaking native language] 00:16:27.467 --> 00:16:30.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I'm horrified to learn that the government 00:16:30.968 --> 00:16:37.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% is going to put together a problematic shelter, 00:16:37.000 --> 00:16:39.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% campsite very close to Chinatown. 00:16:39.400 --> 00:16:41.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Councilmember Lewis, you had a recent social media post 00:16:41.534 --> 00:16:43.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% expressing some frustration at this reversal, 00:16:43.934 --> 00:16:46.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% of course, from King County. I'm trying to figure out 00:16:46.801 --> 00:16:49.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% how you do this balancing the concerns from the CID 00:16:49.734 --> 00:16:52.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% with the need to respond in a tangible way 00:16:52.400 --> 00:16:54.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to our homelessness crisis. 00:16:54.234 --> 00:16:55.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Right. I think my concern, Brian, 00:16:55.767 --> 00:17:00.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% was more frustration that knowing this shelter 00:17:00.434 --> 00:17:03.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% is not going to be completed. I don't have great confidence 00:17:03.601 --> 00:17:05.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that we're going to be able to quickly turn around, 00:17:05.601 --> 00:17:07.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% find an alternative site, 00:17:07.334 --> 00:17:09.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and site that shelter just given the planning. 00:17:09.868 --> 00:17:12.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% There's been almost a year of conversations 00:17:12.534 --> 00:17:14.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% about this site, about this project. 00:17:14.701 --> 00:17:17.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And you know, look, if we could just turn on a dime 00:17:17.501 --> 00:17:20.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% like I think that people expect 00:17:20.334 --> 00:17:21.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and that they're right to expect -- 00:17:21.567 --> 00:17:22.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:17:22.601 --> 00:17:24.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% --- and find an alternative site 00:17:24.200 --> 00:17:27.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% or multiple alternative sites, that'd be one thing. 00:17:27.133 --> 00:17:28.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But look, we got to be really clear about this. 00:17:28.968 --> 00:17:32.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% When we make a choice to forego shelter options, 00:17:32.801 --> 00:17:36.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% we're basically saying we want tents to stay in the street. 00:17:36.300 --> 00:17:38.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I'm all for individual neighborhoods 00:17:38.501 --> 00:17:40.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% having concerns about the siting of some of these. 00:17:40.501 --> 00:17:43.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And we have a burden as public officials 00:17:43.501 --> 00:17:46.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to have a public process to make guarantees 00:17:46.434 --> 00:17:49.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that they'll be well-run. Make guarantees that issues 00:17:49.167 --> 00:17:50.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% won't spill out into the neighborhood. 00:17:50.567 --> 00:17:52.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% You know, I've done that in my district 00:17:52.000 --> 00:17:53.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% with the South Lake Union Tiny House Village, 00:17:53.968 --> 00:17:56.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% one of the first projects that I spearheaded 00:17:56.100 --> 00:17:59.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to get doubled in my district. The Interbay Tiny House Village 00:17:59.868 --> 00:18:02.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% doubled that in my district with strong community support 00:18:02.901 --> 00:18:04.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because we did that outreach. 00:18:04.467 --> 00:18:06.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% People are willing to take the trade 00:18:06.234 --> 00:18:07.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% of more tiny house villages, 00:18:07.534 --> 00:18:10.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% more shelter if it means fewer tents. 00:18:10.601 --> 00:18:12.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And we just need to look, you know, 00:18:12.434 --> 00:18:14.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% put that, look at that right in the eye. 00:18:14.434 --> 00:18:15.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Because look, the reality of this 00:18:15.701 --> 00:18:17.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% is there's going to be more tents on the street 00:18:17.501 --> 00:18:19.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for a longer period of time 00:18:19.167 --> 00:18:22.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for the reversal of this shelter not getting built. 00:18:22.234 --> 00:18:26.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And we just need to, the bottom line is this. 00:18:26.400 --> 00:18:28.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Ballard Commons Park, there's no tents there 00:18:28.734 --> 00:18:31.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because we doubled the Interbay Tiny House Village. 00:18:31.534 --> 00:18:34.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Woodland Park Zoo, or not the zoo but -- 00:18:34.267 --> 00:18:35.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -The park area. 00:18:35.334 --> 00:18:36.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% --- the Woodland Park, the park area. 00:18:36.200 --> 00:18:37.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% There's no tents there anymore 00:18:37.601 --> 00:18:39.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because we built Friendship Heights up in North Seattle. 00:18:39.701 --> 00:18:42.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% There's a clear nexus to when we build these things. 00:18:42.100 --> 00:18:44.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Major encampments are able to get removed 00:18:44.400 --> 00:18:46.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because the people in them are able to go 00:18:46.133 --> 00:18:47.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to places they want to go to. -Yeah. 00:18:47.667 --> 00:18:49.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -So, I'm just going to say this. 00:18:49.067 --> 00:18:51.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Look. There's still going to be this massive encampment 00:18:51.033 --> 00:18:53.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in the Chinatown-ID now that would have been able to be 00:18:53.601 --> 00:18:55.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% replaced by one of those pallet shelters. 00:18:55.701 --> 00:18:57.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We got to come together and figure out a way 00:18:57.734 --> 00:19:00.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to remediate that encampment location. 00:19:00.167 --> 00:19:02.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And that means we have to build something in a different place. 00:19:02.434 --> 00:19:03.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And we need to come together, 00:19:03.868 --> 00:19:08.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% use the emergency powers of the state of emergency. 00:19:08.133 --> 00:19:09.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Do this like it's an emergency. 00:19:09.834 --> 00:19:12.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% You know, people do not want to live in these encampments. 00:19:12.601 --> 00:19:14.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And they don't want to live near them. 00:19:14.000 --> 00:19:15.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -No. 00:19:15.100 --> 00:19:16.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And the answer to this is more housing. 00:19:16.334 --> 00:19:18.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% It's also more enhanced shelter like the type 00:19:18.167 --> 00:19:19.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that was going to be built in this proposal. 00:19:19.801 --> 00:19:23.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. Councilmember Nelson, a bit of a balancing act here, 00:19:23.000 --> 00:19:24.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% as I see it. Your thoughts on what happened 00:19:24.767 --> 00:19:27.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% with the county's plan for a shelter in the CID? 00:19:27.834 --> 00:19:30.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Well, again, not having the historical knowledge. 00:19:30.601 --> 00:19:34.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% People do. The concern from the community 00:19:34.100 --> 00:19:37.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that was expressed was we were not consulted. 00:19:37.400 --> 00:19:39.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% To me, what is important going forward 00:19:39.734 --> 00:19:43.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% is that we are using the assets that we also already have. 00:19:43.634 --> 00:19:45.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And it is. 00:19:45.267 --> 00:19:49.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I am looking at our, all our hotels, really. 00:19:49.534 --> 00:19:51.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% There was an article in the "Times" 00:19:51.033 --> 00:19:55.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% saying that there are empty spaces that we're not using. 00:19:55.167 --> 00:19:56.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And so, for me, we have to look 00:19:56.767 --> 00:19:59.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% at how well our whole response is working. 00:19:59.334 --> 00:20:03.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% It comes back to coordination and ensuring that we are, 00:20:03.834 --> 00:20:06.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that, again, root causes. -Yeah. 00:20:06.200 --> 00:20:09.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Why are we talking about moving people around 00:20:09.267 --> 00:20:12.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% instead of helping them with their court issues? 00:20:12.267 --> 00:20:14.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. And let me stick with you, Councilmember Nelson. 00:20:14.801 --> 00:20:16.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I'll pick up the pace ever so slightly here. 00:20:16.567 --> 00:20:19.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But I wanted to talk about something. 00:20:19.100 --> 00:20:21.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% The storefront repair fund program 00:20:21.033 --> 00:20:23.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% where business owners can get up to $2,000 00:20:23.133 --> 00:20:25.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in grant money to repair damage to their storefronts, 00:20:25.400 --> 00:20:28.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% dating back to January 2021. This program just opened, folks. 00:20:28.567 --> 00:20:30.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And if you do run a small business, 00:20:30.067 --> 00:20:32.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% search for Seattle Storefront Repair Fund. 00:20:32.567 --> 00:20:34.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% You'll find a link to the Office of Economic Development. 00:20:34.567 --> 00:20:36.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% You can check that out. But Councilmember Nelson, 00:20:36.434 --> 00:20:38.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% what impact do you hope a program like this 00:20:38.267 --> 00:20:39.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% is going to have? 00:20:39.701 --> 00:20:42.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Well, I can tell you that it will have a very real impact 00:20:42.501 --> 00:20:45.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for the business owner that gets that check. 00:20:45.334 --> 00:20:46.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:20:46.467 --> 00:20:48.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -I suspect that the need is far greater 00:20:48.634 --> 00:20:54.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% than the resources to pay. But this is an example of us 00:20:54.267 --> 00:20:56.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% listening to what is really needed 00:20:56.067 --> 00:20:57.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% from our small business community 00:20:57.801 --> 00:20:59.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% not often brought to the table. 00:20:59.234 --> 00:21:04.133 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And this proposal came out of that conversation 00:21:04.133 --> 00:21:05.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% with small businesses. 00:21:05.334 --> 00:21:07.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And it was one of the many recommendations 00:21:07.234 --> 00:21:09.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% they put forward for immediate help. 00:21:09.267 --> 00:21:12.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, what I hope is that business owners 00:21:12.234 --> 00:21:16.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% will be able to basically take that money, 00:21:16.934 --> 00:21:22.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and perhaps they. Can I just restart again? 00:21:22.968 --> 00:21:24.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Please. Yeah, yeah, yeah. 00:21:24.434 --> 00:21:26.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Two thousand dollars is not a lot of money 00:21:26.901 --> 00:21:28.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% when you're talking about a broken glass door. 00:21:28.667 --> 00:21:30.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Let's face it. All right. 00:21:30.667 --> 00:21:32.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, this is a small amount of money, 00:21:32.667 --> 00:21:36.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% but it is a meaningful signal to the business community 00:21:36.634 --> 00:21:38.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that we're trying to help. -Yeah. 00:21:38.434 --> 00:21:42.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And it's an unusual step for the city to take because, 00:21:42.300 --> 00:21:45.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% normally, that is something that the business 00:21:45.033 --> 00:21:47.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% improvement areas do on their own. 00:21:47.300 --> 00:21:48.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Right. 00:21:48.434 --> 00:21:49.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And so, I think that we're showing 00:21:49.267 --> 00:21:50.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that we're trying to help. 00:21:50.467 --> 00:21:52.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And, ideally, I would like to see more money 00:21:52.934 --> 00:21:55.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to help more businesses pay for bigger bills. 00:21:55.367 --> 00:21:56.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. And Councilmember Lewis, 00:21:56.767 --> 00:21:58.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I know you've worked on this issue before downtown. 00:21:58.834 --> 00:22:01.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Touch off what Councilmember Nelson is saying here, maybe. 00:22:01.400 --> 00:22:02.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -No, it's a great initiative. 00:22:02.868 --> 00:22:06.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We're working on a similar program that would have a nexus 00:22:06.934 --> 00:22:10.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% if it's part of a criminal case, a victim compensation fund 00:22:10.767 --> 00:22:12.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that was funded in last year's budget. 00:22:12.334 --> 00:22:13.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But it's still going through 00:22:13.434 --> 00:22:16.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the, it's a smaller amount of money. 00:22:16.801 --> 00:22:18.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. -And it would involve a nexus 00:22:18.300 --> 00:22:21.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% of the matters in court to make sure that -- 00:22:21.000 --> 00:22:22.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. 00:22:22.334 --> 00:22:23.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% --- victims are compensated. 00:22:23.434 --> 00:22:26.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% In a lot of cases, you have defendants 00:22:26.000 --> 00:22:27.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that are completely judgment-proof. 00:22:27.601 --> 00:22:28.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% It goes to collections -- -Yeah. 00:22:28.901 --> 00:22:31.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% --- and the business owner never gets their money. 00:22:31.000 --> 00:22:32.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, you know, it would be a fund 00:22:32.367 --> 00:22:34.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that would operate independent of the judicial process, 00:22:34.834 --> 00:22:36.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that person would still be held, 00:22:36.300 --> 00:22:38.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% could be held criminally accountable and everything else. 00:22:38.267 --> 00:22:39.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Okay. 00:22:39.601 --> 00:22:41.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -But it would make sure a process kicks in so that 00:22:41.868 --> 00:22:44.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that business owner can be compensated for that damage 00:22:44.901 --> 00:22:47.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% if, ultimately, it gets to the end of the line 00:22:47.067 --> 00:22:49.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and there's no money for that person, 00:22:49.767 --> 00:22:51.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% which is an incredibly frustrating experience. 00:22:51.968 --> 00:22:54.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, no. I think the initiative 00:22:54.400 --> 00:22:56.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that Mayor Harrell and Councilmember Nelson 00:22:56.167 --> 00:22:58.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% have put forward is great where, you know, 00:22:58.300 --> 00:23:00.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because look, we don't always know who's responsible 00:23:00.868 --> 00:23:03.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for breaking the window. And having a more flexible, 00:23:03.834 --> 00:23:08.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% robust fund is critical to make sure that this gets done 00:23:08.400 --> 00:23:10.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and these windows get fixed. -Right. Please. 00:23:10.200 --> 00:23:11.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And we don't know who broke the window 00:23:11.801 --> 00:23:13.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because, oftentimes, the security cameras 00:23:13.567 --> 00:23:15.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% go out at the same time. -Sure. 00:23:15.067 --> 00:23:18.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -But what's important to note is that most business owners, 00:23:18.334 --> 00:23:22.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the vast majority, do not file. 00:23:22.300 --> 00:23:23.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% They don't file an insurance claim. 00:23:23.801 --> 00:23:27.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, oftentimes, the police are not called to take the statement 00:23:27.467 --> 00:23:30.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because they don't want their insurance rates to go up. 00:23:30.701 --> 00:23:34.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And so, this program removes by, 00:23:34.801 --> 00:23:36.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% it just basically says, show us your receipts. 00:23:36.734 --> 00:23:37.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. Right. 00:23:37.868 --> 00:23:40.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And that is, that's welcome. 00:23:40.334 --> 00:23:41.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -That's how it's going to work. 00:23:41.601 --> 00:23:43.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I want to jump back to you, Councilmember Lewis, 00:23:43.501 --> 00:23:44.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and talk about your work heading up 00:23:44.901 --> 00:23:46.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the Seattle Park District Board, 00:23:46.634 --> 00:23:48.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the board made up of all nine council members. 00:23:48.334 --> 00:23:50.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% You just approved a plan to roughly double 00:23:50.601 --> 00:23:52.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% the tax levy rate from the park district. 00:23:52.567 --> 00:23:56.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% The average homeowner pays about $155 right now per year. 00:23:56.300 --> 00:23:58.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% That will go up to about 342 next year, 00:23:58.267 --> 00:23:59.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% 450 the year after that. 00:23:59.901 --> 00:24:01.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I know there's a lot of talk about that rising cost 00:24:01.901 --> 00:24:03.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and want to be real about that. 00:24:03.467 --> 00:24:06.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% But there's also a very real demand for services, too. 00:24:06.234 --> 00:24:09.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Can you give us an overview of how this settled out? 00:24:09.167 --> 00:24:10.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. Well, going into this, 00:24:10.334 --> 00:24:12.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% it was really clear from talking to people 00:24:12.634 --> 00:24:13.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% out in the neighborhoods. 00:24:13.934 --> 00:24:16.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Talking to, you know, organizations that advocate 00:24:16.467 --> 00:24:18.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for open space like business improvement areas, 00:24:18.534 --> 00:24:19.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Parks Foundation, 00:24:19.934 --> 00:24:23.734 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that people really wanted a funded mandate for our parks. 00:24:23.734 --> 00:24:25.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% People are not satisfied with the state of our parks 00:24:25.868 --> 00:24:28.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% coming out of the hangover from the COVID 00:24:28.601 --> 00:24:30.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% era where our parks were the, 00:24:30.968 --> 00:24:34.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% you know, the previous mayor had made a decision to use them 00:24:34.300 --> 00:24:37.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% basically as encampment locations for a while. 00:24:37.200 --> 00:24:38.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% There had been significant damage 00:24:38.534 --> 00:24:40.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% from a lot of the demonstrations and protests. 00:24:40.367 --> 00:24:41.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% People wanted to restore the parks 00:24:41.968 --> 00:24:44.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and open spaces in our Olmsted Legacy Parks. 00:24:44.367 --> 00:24:45.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:24:45.467 --> 00:24:51.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -So, we set on a mission to build a plan 00:24:51.367 --> 00:24:52.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that would make those investments 00:24:52.467 --> 00:24:53.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% but hold the department accountable, 00:24:53.901 --> 00:24:56.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to have a funded mandate to hold it accountable. 00:24:56.234 --> 00:24:58.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, people can expect that when they go to their parks, 00:24:58.501 --> 00:25:00.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% bathrooms are going to be clean, safe, and open. 00:25:00.767 --> 00:25:01.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% When they go to their parks, 00:25:01.868 --> 00:25:03.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% there's going to be a park ranger 00:25:03.434 --> 00:25:05.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% who's going to be there to be a resource 00:25:05.767 --> 00:25:07.400 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for the people who are using the park. 00:25:07.400 --> 00:25:08.601 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:25:08.601 --> 00:25:12.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -That when we have sustained smoke events, 00:25:12.000 --> 00:25:13.934 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% like what we're experiencing this week. 00:25:13.934 --> 00:25:16.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% That our community centers can be places that will be HVACed, 00:25:16.834 --> 00:25:19.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that'll be places of refuge to get out of those elements. 00:25:19.968 --> 00:25:22.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, you know, now comes the difficult part 00:25:22.767 --> 00:25:26.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% because this is all just on paper until it's realized. 00:25:26.067 --> 00:25:28.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I'm really impressed with AP Diaz, 00:25:28.033 --> 00:25:30.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Mayor Harrell's nominee to lead the Parks Department. 00:25:30.834 --> 00:25:32.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Right. 00:25:32.267 --> 00:25:35.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -He's very excited about the prospect of really living up 00:25:35.901 --> 00:25:39.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to the expectations we've put forward as a council in the MPD. 00:25:39.701 --> 00:25:42.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, you know, the hard work really begins next year 00:25:42.634 --> 00:25:44.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% in implementing this and being vigilant 00:25:44.534 --> 00:25:46.701 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% as a council in our oversight. 00:25:46.701 --> 00:25:51.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% You know, we've put in performance auditing mandates. 00:25:51.434 --> 00:25:54.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We've put in a lot of reporting mandates. 00:25:54.567 --> 00:25:57.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, I fully expect that we're going to see 00:25:57.000 --> 00:25:59.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% a lot of energy from Parks to live up to this. 00:25:59.000 --> 00:26:01.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Because they know, you know, if they meet this mandate, 00:26:01.868 --> 00:26:04.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% it means sustained support for the activities of our parks. 00:26:04.200 --> 00:26:05.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And the people of Seattle want to see that. 00:26:05.467 --> 00:26:06.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We're proud of our parks. 00:26:06.534 --> 00:26:08.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Absolutely. Councilmember Nelson, 00:26:08.100 --> 00:26:09.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I need to switch gears. I wanted to draw some attention 00:26:09.968 --> 00:26:11.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to the work you've done on cannabis equity. 00:26:11.901 --> 00:26:14.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, the Council passed this into law last month. 00:26:14.467 --> 00:26:16.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% You made sure that the needs assessment process 00:26:16.767 --> 00:26:17.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for this would be handled 00:26:17.901 --> 00:26:20.167 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% by an independent academic institution. 00:26:20.167 --> 00:26:21.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% I just, I know you had some reservations 00:26:21.634 --> 00:26:23.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% about this bill initially, 00:26:23.000 --> 00:26:25.033 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% but you worked through it with other council members here. 00:26:25.033 --> 00:26:26.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And I wanted to ask about 00:26:26.467 --> 00:26:29.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% what you hope comes out of this drive for cannabis equity. 00:26:29.267 --> 00:26:32.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -I hope that it's really about equity. 00:26:32.467 --> 00:26:37.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We have got to make sure that the goals that were set forth 00:26:37.000 --> 00:26:40.667 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% are continuing to be worked for. And there are a lot of people 00:26:40.667 --> 00:26:42.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that have been left out of the cannabis industry. 00:26:42.534 --> 00:26:43.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:26:43.767 --> 00:26:47.467 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -When regarding the academic institution -- 00:26:47.467 --> 00:26:48.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:26:48.767 --> 00:26:50.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% --- this needs assessment will be the foundation 00:26:50.767 --> 00:26:54.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% for future policy changes in the cannabis industry, 00:26:54.434 --> 00:26:57.200 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% which is a new and vulnerable industry. 00:26:57.200 --> 00:26:58.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:26:58.234 --> 00:26:59.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And so, it's absolutely crucial 00:26:59.801 --> 00:27:02.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that the convening agency, 00:27:02.534 --> 00:27:07.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% that the body that is doing this analysis 00:27:07.334 --> 00:27:09.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and bringing the parties together is neutral. 00:27:09.334 --> 00:27:10.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:27:10.767 --> 00:27:12.901 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -So, that is what I was trying to accomplish in that amendment. 00:27:12.901 --> 00:27:15.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Got it. We are just about out of time, 00:27:15.300 --> 00:27:18.000 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% but maybe I'll throw this one at you, Councilmember Lewis. 00:27:18.000 --> 00:27:19.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Any chance there's any funding in the budget 00:27:19.968 --> 00:27:21.367 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to help the Mariners land 00:27:21.367 --> 00:27:23.067 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% another power-hitting outfielder? 00:27:23.067 --> 00:27:25.234 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% That J-Rod deal was only like 210 mil. 00:27:25.234 --> 00:27:27.834 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, and any chance at all there? None? 00:27:27.834 --> 00:27:29.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -No. It's likely we're going to have money 00:27:29.501 --> 00:27:31.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% to make sure we have a really great All-Star game. 00:27:31.767 --> 00:27:33.267 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -That, there you go. Okay. 00:27:33.267 --> 00:27:34.968 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -And make sure that that's well-programmed in the community 00:27:34.968 --> 00:27:36.100 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% and that we have a lot of stuff 00:27:36.100 --> 00:27:38.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% going on all over the city to celebrate, 00:27:38.434 --> 00:27:41.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% being able to host an event like that. 00:27:41.434 --> 00:27:42.801 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -Yeah. 00:27:42.801 --> 00:27:45.567 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -But no, I, you know, I got to say, though, you know, 00:27:45.567 --> 00:27:49.501 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% despite that disappointing end the other day, 00:27:49.501 --> 00:27:51.300 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Mariners acquitted themselves well this season. 00:27:51.300 --> 00:27:52.767 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% So, I look forward to next season. 00:27:52.767 --> 00:27:54.434 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% And we can just build on this. 00:27:54.434 --> 00:27:55.534 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% -I like it. I like it. 00:27:55.534 --> 00:27:56.868 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Okay. Thank you for bringing that up. 00:27:56.868 --> 00:27:58.634 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% Thank you all for being here, Councilmember Nelson. 00:27:58.634 --> 00:28:01.334 align:middle line:00% position:50% size:90% We will see you next time on "Council Edition."