The Seattle City Council Select Committee on Federal Administration and Policy Changes convened on April 3, 2025, to address pressing issues stemming from recent federal policy changes. A significant focus of the meeting was the closure of the Region 10 Office of Health and Human Services (HHS), which has raised concerns among council members regarding its impact on local programs and services.

During the meeting, one council member expressed feelings of being overwhelmed by the scale of the challenges presented, likening them to a "global warming size problem." The closure of the HHS office was highlighted as a critical issue, prompting questions about the implications for funding and services associated with the office. The council member emphasized the importance of understanding how such closures affect community health, particularly in relation to substance use disorder treatment, which they identified as a precursor to broader issues like chronic homelessness.

The discussion underscored the need for collaboration among council members and community stakeholders to navigate these challenges effectively. Another council member echoed the sentiment of overwhelm, acknowledging the complexity of the issues at hand and the necessity for collective action to address them.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to continue seeking information and working together to make informed decisions that will benefit the community. The ongoing dialogue reflects the council's dedication to addressing the multifaceted impacts of federal policy changes on local health and social services.