Politics Seattle Council unanimously approves raises for 10,000 city workers The vote finalized more than a year of bargaining for new union contracts, including back pay, annual wage increases and other benefits. by Josh Cohen / April 2, 2024
News How property tax caps push some WA counties to the financial edge As federal relief money dries up, cities and counties can’t keep up with inflation. Officials suggest removing limits on one crucial revenue source. by Daniel Walters InvestigateWest / April 2, 2024
Politics Seattle Councilmember pushes housing, community development pilot Tammy Morales is proposing the Connected Communities program to incentivize construction of affordable housing and amenities through looser zoning rules. by Josh Cohen / March 26, 2024
Politics U.S. judge picks new WA legislative map, moving Latino district Under the new map, the Latino-majority district unites Latino communities from East Yakima in Yakima County to Pasco in Franklin County. by Mai Hoang / March 15, 2024 / Updated 4:38 p.m., March 15
Investigations Washington UTC chair who used racial slur asked to resign An investigation found two commissioners allegedly used derogatory language, disregarded harassment complaints and failed to advance equity policies. by Brandon Block / March 15, 2024
Politics Legislature decides WA schools should include LGBTQ+ history SB 5462 would require state curricula to teach the perspectives and experiences of historically marginalized groups. by Scarlet Hansen / March 14, 2024
Politics How will Seattle’s $230M deficit influence the 2025 city budget? Some Councilmembers who promised to conduct a full audit are softening their approach. Now the city is trying new processes for the next cycle. by Josh Cohen / March 13, 2024
Politics Federal judge to decide on new Latino voter majority district map With the filing deadline for 2024 less than two months away, a hearing was held Friday to examine the redrawn Central WA boundaries. by Mai Hoang / March 12, 2024
Politics 2024 WA Legislature passes bills on guns, environment, education Yet lawmakers failed to advance most housing initiatives. From AI task forces to child marriage, here is how some standout bills fared. by Donna Gordon Blankinship & Scarlet Hansen / March 11, 2024
Politics WA Legislature revs up plan to electrify 10,000 school buses A bill to switch from diesel vehicles — plus $50M from cap-and-trade revenue — passed out of the Legislature, but did not offer a timeline. by John Stang / March 8, 2024