Seattle’s broken budget needs a scorecard – It’s imperative to make your voice heard
Seattle’s broken budget needs a scorecard – It’s imperative to make your voice heard
The people of Seattle have spoken loudly regarding its priorities for the city, but apparently the majority of the City Council isn’t listening. According to recent polling by the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, public safety is the top priority, second only to homelessness. In his budget released in September, Mayor Bruce Harrell listened to...
[un]Divided interview with Jim Ferrell
[un]Divided interview with Jim Ferrell
On the latest episode of [un]Divided, independent journalist Brandi Kruse interviews King County Prosecutor candidate Jim Ferrell to discuss crime and public safety in the region. Read Change Washington’s Q&A interview with Ferrell here.
Now that Halloween is over, here’s something scarier
Now that Halloween is over, here’s something scarier
Now that Halloween is over and trick-or-treaters aren’t knocking on your door, here’s something scarier. Criminals could come breaking down your door instead, and get a slap on the wrist for robbing you. The King County Prosecutor’s Office recently started up a “diversion” program for juveniles that keep them out of the courtroom and a jail sentence...
The most important local race in the state this year
The most important local race in the state this year
Although many local, regional, and state elected offices are up for election, you could argue that the most important political race in our state is for King County Prosecutor. It will in large part determine the future of Seattle and other cities in the county regarding public safety, crime, and business climate. While cities handle...
The race for King County Prosecutor
The race for King County Prosecutor
Who’s got experience, endorsements and a track record?
Jim Ferrell answers Change Washington’s public safety questions
Jim Ferrell answers Change Washington’s public safety questions
Earlier this month we emailed both King County Prosecutor Candidates, Jim Ferrell and Leesa Manion, inviting them to participate in a questionnaire about public safety and crime in the region. Below are the questions and responses from Jim Ferrell. Leesa Manion did not respond after several emails were sent. Question 1: Describe your background and...
Victory! County nixes plans for Chinatown homeless megaplex (for now)
Victory! County nixes plans for Chinatown homeless megaplex (for now)
When tasked with a long, difficult undertaking it’s important to celebrate the victories when they happen. King County’s decision to nix a planned homeless megaplex in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District (CID) represents an unexpected and important success for sound homelessness policy, public safety, and common-sense governance. As we’ve written on repeatedly, this entire project was thoroughly...
The future of public safety is at stake
The future of public safety is at stake
One of the cornerstones of public safety in the Seattle metro area is the King County Prosecutor’s Office. While city attorneys such as Ann Davison pursue misdemeanor crime, the county prosecutor handles felony cases such as violent assault, murder, rape, and serious drug offenses. At least that’s what they’re supposed to do. We’ve reported previously...
King County prosecutor’s office criminal problem
King County prosecutor’s office criminal problem
The King County Prosecutor’s Office is in trouble. In theory, it goes after felony crimes and seeks harsh sentences for particularly severe offenses. Its focus is on protecting the public and filing charges that match the crime in an effort to reduce the number of incidents. But is that what actually happens? Unfortunately, no. Recently...
Removing drug camps isn’t causing record homeless deaths
Removing drug camps isn’t causing record homeless deaths
It’s no secret to any of you that Seattle is in bad shape, but you may not be aware of just how dysfunctional the situation is – and it may only get worse if there isn’t a change in course. The level of dysfunction was revealed in a recent Seattle Times story that we’ll be...
Don’t let King County Prosecutor’s Office get off the hook
Don’t let King County Prosecutor’s Office get off the hook
Earlier this year we said those responsible for King County’s high and increasing crime rate would be held accountable. This week’s presents another opportunity. Seattle Times editorial board member Alex Fryer recently penned a column highlighting the process by which violent offenders are either released or held on bail. If you don’t have high blood...
The winner of Seattle’s public servant Darwin Award goes to…
The winner of Seattle’s public servant Darwin Award goes to…
If Seattle had a Darwin Award-type honor bestowed to public servants, the winner no doubt would be Councilmember Kshama Sawant. However, Councilmembers Tammy Morales and Teresa Mosqueda are giving her a run for her money when it comes public safety. Recently Seattle Times columnists Danny Westneat accurately described what’s going on in the city: This...
Here’s how we’re using our opponent’s playbook to keep winning
Here’s how we’re using our opponent’s playbook to keep winning
If you were among those surprised to find most Seattle voters agree with you on issues like crime and homelessness, it’s likely because you assumed that the loudest voices in public reflected public sentiment. But it’s like with the city’s petty crime, in which a handful of serial offenders are committing most of it. Likewise,...
Ann Davison needs your help!
Ann Davison needs your help!
Recently we wrote about how Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison wants to reduce petty crime in the city, but she can’t do it without your help. In response, many of you reached out to her office to express your support for her ongoing efforts. Well, now your help is needed once more. Davison wants to...