Council President Sara Nelson (Position 9) highlighted today a slate of her priority amendments that have been included in the Council’s recently proposed budget balancing package. The amendments represent critical investments in economic opportunity, community safety, youth development, and cultural vitality across Seattle.
Key items incorporated into the proposal include:
- Recovery Housing: A $150,000 investment in stipends to support individuals exiting treatment programs so they can live in supportive recovery housing.
- Arts and Culture: A substantial increase of $200,000 to support existing ARTS funding, bolstering Seattle’s cultural sector through the Tasveer International Film Festival.
- Youth Violence Prevention: Allocation of $250,000 dedicated to family-based youth violence prevention programs, providing foundational support for at-risk youth and their families.
- Youth Athletics: An increase of $43,000 specifically designated for the youth football program CD Panthers, expanding access to organized sports and mentorship.
- Immigrant Small Business Outreach: An additional $190,000 to enhance outreach and support services for immigrant-owned small businesses.
- Graffiti Abatement: A dedicated increase of $250,000 to significantly enhance graffiti abatement services across the city.
- Housing Solutions: A request to explore the use of the non-profit Housing Connector and identify barriers that prevent low-income households from renting available units.
- Central District Support: A proviso establishing the permanency of a dedicated Central District Liaison position to SPD.
“These initial budget milestones are a direct result of listening to our constituents and prioritizing the economic opportunity, health and safety of our city,” said Council President Nelson. “I strongly encourage Seattle residents and stakeholders to stay engaged in the budget process as we near the final stages by showing up to Thursday’s last public hearing. Your voice matters and it’s important these amendments remain in the final budget.”
Next steps
The Council is currently in the middle of the budget process that includes 19 public meetings, eight public comment periods, and two full public hearings. Seattleites will have another opportunity to chime in on the proposed 2026 Budget and Chair Strauss’ balancing package during the final public hearing, Thursday, Nov. 6. The hearing will be divided into two sessions: remote testimony beginning at 1 p.m. and in-person comments starting at 5 p.m.
For more information about the full budget process check out the Select Budget Committee calendar and the City Council’s Budget Basics Web page
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