Today the City Council adopted a resolution, sponsored by Councilmember Rob Saka (District 1), strengthening Seattle’s commitment to a comprehensive approach to public safety. The resolution expresses appreciation for the community’s first responders, recognizes work done to reform the Seattle Police Department (SPD), endorses accountability measures, calls for diversified responses to 911 calls as offered by the new Community Assisted Response & Engagement (CARE) Department, and reverses prior “defund” commitments.

“This resolution is about the future of public safety in Seattle,” said Councilmember Saka. “I’m grateful to my colleagues for their support as we continue to partner together with the Mayor and the Seattle Police Department, Seattle Fire Department, and CARE Department in ensuring that everyone in Seattle feels safe and supported. It’s also vital that we provide our dedicated first responders with the resources they require to effectively keep our neighborhoods safe. I’m excited to chart a bold new path towards a diversified public safety response that improves safety for all. With the passage of this legislation, our city is now well-positioned to potentially clear the final remaining hurdle for termination of the federal consent decree and the end of federal oversight after 13 years. We have come so far, but a lot more needs to be done.”

“With this resolution requesting the City Attorney submit the last remaining SPD policies to the Federal Monitor for review, we are close to fully resolving the federal consent decree, a milestone for our efforts to build a holistic public safety system that is effective, responsive, and accountable to the communities that it serves,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. “Public safety remains my highest priority, and my office will continue to work closely with partners on the City Council, leadership at our three public safety departments, and the community to build a city where everyone feels safe, secure, and supported.”

“Today’s approved resolution underscores this Council’s strategic commitment to improving public safety in our neighborhoods, in our various communities, and citywide,” said Councilmember Bob Kettle (District 7), who serves as chair of the Public Safety Committee. “I commend the Mayor’s Office and the Seattle Police Department for their reform work. I’m hopeful this action will help resolve the Federal Consent Decree and provide the department with the opportunity to build on the reforms and serve Seattle’s future.”

“Seattle Fire Fighters appreciate Councilmember Saka for introducing this important resolution to support first responders in our city,” said Lieutenant Kenny Stuart, President of the Seattle Fire Fighters Union, IAFF Local 27. “Fire fighters work hard day and night to keep our city and residents safe. This resolution announces that Seattle has moved away from the divisions of the past and we acknowledge the critical role that police and fire fighters have in our community.”

Background

Since taking office in 2024, the new City Council has adopted 14 pieces of transformative public safety-related legislation, a record number since 2015. In February, the Council approved final legislation on crowd management guidelines for SPD. The updated guidelines include several amendments intended to provide additional oversight and accountability, including checks on the use of blast balls. If consistent with best practices, Seattle will have the ability to file a motion to end the consent decree.

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