Calls for stronger reform from the state level: ‘Our city deserves better’ 

Today, Councilmember Rob Saka (District 1), who serves as vice chair of the Public Safety Committee, announced that he will oppose the tentative collective bargaining agreement with the Seattle Police Officers’ Guild (SPOG). 

I’ll be voting ‘no’ on the proposed Seattle Police Officers Guild contract today because systems reform at the state level must come first, and this agreement fails to meet what Seattleites deserve under our current state law that is structured to produce weak oversight. While I support positive reforms like the expansion of the CARE Department for crisis response, these wins don’t make up for the continued lack of accountability.  

We strengthen public safety when we strengthen accountability. The two rise or fall together. The most glaring failure for me is the continued refusal to grant subpoena power to the civilian Office of Police Accountability and the Inspector General. Without this critical tool, misconduct investigations can’t be completed, trust erodes, and institutions are shielded instead of people. I can’t justify spending tens of millions more on officers while essential oversight tools remain missing. 

Accountability is non-negotiable for me. Throughout my adult career I’ve fought for stronger civilian oversight and advancing fairness. I’m also committed to fighting for statewide reform to remove police discipline and misconduct rules from being treated as expensive bargaining chips. Seattle deserves a contract that provides meaningful oversight and real tools. Our city deserves better. This is why I must vote ‘no.’ 

Next steps 

Councilmembers are expected to discuss and vote on the proposed contracts – CB 121132 and CB 121133 – at today’s 2 p.m. meeting of the full Council. The meeting is available to watch live courtesy of the Seattle Channel.  

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