We have a duty to get people housed and to do right by taxpayers

Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck (Position 8) and Councilmember Dionne Foster (Position 9) released the following statement after receiving the findings of a forensic audit on the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA).

“On Tuesday evening, we received the findings of the KCRHA forensic audit. The findings are serious, unacceptable and demand immediate action and accountability.

“Every misstep revealed in this audit represents another missed opportunity to prevent further trauma in our streets and neighborhoods across the region. At the same time, the homelessness emergency continues to demand strong regional coordination to ensure an effective response across Seattle and King County.

“As elected officials, we are entrusted by our constituents to ensure every dollar is driving real, measurable impact for our communities. In response to this audit, KCRHA must act immediately to instate stronger financial controls. Following that, we must bring our region together to determine the future of our regional homelessness system. Fundamentally, we have a duty to get people housed and do right by the taxpayers of Seattle and King County.“

Councilmembers Rinck and Foster serve as the Chair and Vice Chair of the Human Services, Labor, and Economic Development committee. Since January 2026 they have held two of Seattle’s four seats on the KCRHA Governing Board.

Today, the audit findings were formally delivered to KCRHA. As is standard in audit processes, the agency will respond to the findings. Clark Nuber, the independent auditor, will present audit findings at KCRHA’s Governing Board meeting on Friday, April 24. At this meeting the Governing Board will have the opportunity to review the findings and discuss the agency’s response.

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