Seattle mayor celebrates first year, looks to future

SEATTLE — Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan singed the $5.9 billion budget just approved by the City Council Monday.

She said $700 million will go to public safety.

“Including new police officers and new fire recruits,” she said. “You are getting some help, people,” the mayor told the firefighters in attendance.

Durkan also said more than $600 million will be invested in transit and transportation, and that $90 million will go for programs to help the homeless get off the streets. This will be done without new taxes after Durkan and a majority of the city council quickly repealed the Head Tax they passed earlier this year.

“We have to think about those people who are the least advantaged, living outside, making sure that we do what we need to do as a city to bring them inside and provide affordable housing.”

This all comes as Durkan approaches the end of her first year in office on November 28.

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“From what I know about her, I'd give her like a C average. I don't think that she's done anything outstanding. The city seems to be doing all right,” Seattle resident Terry Wendt said.

“Everybody wants more to be done with the homelessness issue and address that even though there's no easy answer, of course. What grade would you give her? I'd say a B with room for improvement,” said Nick Martin.

Veteran city council member Sally Bagshaw had a close-up view of the mayor's first year.

“I think she's more confident in her position now, she knows her department heads, she knows who she can trust and rely upon, and that's helpful for anybody.”

We asked the mayor what her top priorities are for next year.

“We have to make sure that people can live in Seattle and work in Seattle.”

Cox Media Group