King County Council meets Seattle Council to address federal funding cuts

In a rare joint meeting on June 20, 2025, the King County Council Committee of the Whole and the Seattle City Council Select Committee on Federal Administration and Policy Changes convened to address critical funding threats from the federal government. This collaboration marks only the second time in over a decade that the two councils have met together, highlighting the urgency of the current political climate.

Chair of the King County Committee, who opened the meeting, emphasized the unusual nature of this gathering, stating, "We are not in typical times." Both councils are grappling with potential rollbacks and defunding that could severely impact their ability to serve constituents. The chair noted that discussions have been ongoing since the beginning of the year, with various panels addressing the implications of federal funding cuts.

The meeting aimed to foster a shared understanding of the challenges ahead and to prepare for possible actions if the federal government follows through on its threats. The chair expressed gratitude for the collaboration, stating, "Here we are, trying to educate ourselves, be ready to take action." This joint effort underscores the commitment of both councils to uphold their progressive values in the face of external pressures.

As the meeting unfolded, it became clear that both councils are united in their mission to protect essential services for their communities. The discussions are expected to pave the way for coordinated responses to safeguard funding and maintain the integrity of local governance.