The Seattle City Select Budget Committee convened on September 25, 2025, to discuss critical funding proposals aimed at enhancing public safety and addressing the ongoing care crisis in the city. The meeting focused on several key investments in emergency response, substance use treatment, and community support services.

The session began with a proposal to allocate $2.6 million for the addition of 12 new 911 call takers, aimed at improving response times and reducing the high turnover rates within the call center. This investment is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the 911 center can effectively manage the increasing volume of emergency calls, which reached 890,000 in the previous year.

Next, the committee discussed a significant investment of $15 million to stabilize ongoing care operations, which includes expanding the Seattle Fire Department's community crisis response team. This initiative aims to double the number of crisis responders from 24 to 48, enhancing the city's capacity to address low-acuity calls without police intervention. The community crisis responders have already made substantial impacts, responding to over 6,000 events since their inception and connecting individuals in crisis to necessary services.

Further discussions highlighted the need for additional funding to support the Seattle Fire Department, with a proposed $2 million to recruit and train 20 new firefighters. This funding is crucial as the department currently faces 99 vacancies, which affects its ability to respond to emergencies effectively.

The meeting also addressed the alarming rise in overdose incidents, with 1,000 fatal overdoses reported in King County in 2024, including 570 in Seattle. To combat this crisis, the committee proposed $1.5 million to expand the Seattle Fire Department's post-overdose team, which aims to provide immediate care and connect individuals to recovery services.

Additionally, the committee discussed the importance of stable funding for the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program, which plays a vital role in the ecosystem of recovery services. The proposal includes a sales tax increase to ensure consistent funding for LEAD and other treatment programs, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to addiction and public safety.

Council President Nelson, who sponsored part of the funding proposal, underscored the interconnectedness of addiction, public safety, and homelessness, advocating for a holistic approach to treatment that includes a variety of services and recovery housing options.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue discussions on these critical investments, aiming to enhance the city's response capabilities and support for individuals facing crises. The proposed funding measures reflect a proactive approach to addressing the pressing challenges of public safety and community health in Seattle.