Seattle Council members advocate for funding environmental education program for underserved youth

The Select Committee on the Families, Education, Preschool & Promise (FEPP) Levy convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss critical funding for Seattle's environmental education programs. The meeting highlighted the importance of these programs, particularly for underserved communities, and the potential impact of budget cuts on their future.

Council member Strauss opened the discussion by emphasizing the value of Seattle Park's environmental education program, which serves thousands of students from various schools. In 2024, the program hosted over 5,300 students and conducted numerous public programs across 20 parks, focusing on local ecology. Strauss noted that without additional funding from the levy, this popular initiative is set to expire in 2025.

The council member expressed gratitude for the mayor's inclusion of partial funding in the budget but advocated for an amendment to restore full funding, citing the program's strong return on investment. He argued that the program not only benefits children but also engages a dedicated team of volunteers who contribute significantly to its success.

Council member Kettle supported Strauss's position, highlighting the equity aspect of the program. He shared his personal experience as a stay-at-home dad, noting that access to environmental education should not be limited to those in privileged positions. Kettle argued that the amendment would further the equity goals of the FEPP levy.

The committee discussed the executive's decision to exclude certain positions related to the environmental learning program from the levy funding. Some members expressed concern that this decision could undermine the program's effectiveness. Council member Moore suggested that the executive could restore these positions through the budget process rather than relying solely on the levy.

Throughout the meeting, members acknowledged the importance of maintaining a focus on youth in the levy’s funding. They debated the implications of including additional positions and the potential expansion of the levy’s scope. The discussion underscored the need for careful consideration of budget allocations to ensure that essential services remain funded.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions reflected a commitment to preserving environmental education opportunities for Seattle's youth, particularly those from underserved communities. The next steps will involve further evaluation of the proposed amendments and their potential impact on the overall budget and program sustainability.