Federal Way council delays decision on Day Center funding after hours-long public debate

The Federal Way City Council on Tuesday voted to delay a decision on 2025 Human Services grant funding for the Federal Way Day Center, directing staff to return with the item for council consideration in the second quarter of 2025.

The action followed more than two hours of public testimony from more than three dozen speakers, a staff briefing and a presentation by Catholic Community Services, the nonprofit that operates the Day Center. Opponents — many nearby business owners and residents — described repeated problems they attribute to the center’s site, including trash, open drug use and overnight encampments. Supporters, including faith leaders, service providers and people with lived experience, argued the Day Center provides essential services such as mail, showers, laundry, case management and health referrals and that closing it would harm people who lack shelter.

Why it matters: Council members said they want to preserve services for people experiencing homelessness while holding the Day Center to compliance standards and protecting adjacent businesses and public safety. Council and staff repeatedly said the real long‑term fix is shelter and permanent supportive housing, projects that remain stalled or uncertain at the county level.

City staff and Catholic Community Services described recent steps taken at the center. The agency said it…