Local

The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA metro area continues to experience rising home prices, with Clyde Hill, Medina, and Beaux Arts Village leading as the most expensive locations.

The King County Council has sanctioned a $20 billion biennial budget for 2026-2027, strategically crafted to tackle racial injustice and deliver targeted resources to historically marginalized communities. This comprehensive financial plan includes allocations for small business support, eviction prevention, youth programs, and a pioneering study on reparative action for descendants of enslaved individuals, marking a significant step toward equity and justice.

In response to the tragic June 14 murder of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, the Washington State Patrol has strategically redirected resources to the Washington State Fusion Center. This initiative aims to enhance the monitoring and protection of the state's legislators from political threats, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding public officials amid an increasingly volatile political climate.

A Grays Harbor County resident has preliminarily tested positive for avian influenza, potentially representing Washington's first human case of the virus in 2025. Health officials are actively investigating possible sources of infection and are closely monitoring individuals who have had direct contact with the patient.

The Seattle Medium, in collaboration with Bennett Media Group, will conduct its annual food drive on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Seattle Medium Building, 2600 S. Jackson St., aiming to support families facing economic hardship.

MLK Jr. Memorial Baptist Church in Renton has launched a weekly program offering free meals and care packages to the community and anyone in need, run entirely by volunteers and church members.

Seattle voters overwhelmingly approved the renewal of the Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise (FEPP) Levy, a six-year, $1.3 billion education investment to expand childcare, school health and free college, securing more than 76% of the vote.

King County has invested $25 million to support nonprofit human services providers and their workforce, who are facing rising costs and burnout, by providing subsidies, improved benefits, professional development, and hiring and retention bonuses.

Black-Owned Business Excellence (BOBE) is accepting nominations for its Seventh Annual Community and Business Leadership Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations that exemplify Black business leadership, innovation, and community impact across Washington state.

Seattle, Washington has faced a series of intense rainstorms from November 13 to 16, leading to localized flooding, power outages, and elevated river levels. In response, the National Weather Service issued flood advisories across several counties, highlighting the ongoing risks posed by the heavy rainfall.