King County Councilmember Girmay Zahilay recently announced that he will be running for re-election to retain his seat representing King County’s District 2. To kick-off his campaign, Zahilay will be holding a rally this Sat., Jan. 21 from 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Washington Hall – 153 14th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122.
“I am proud of the work we have done on the County Council and I am eager to continue serving the residents of King County,” said Zahilay. “Over the past four years, we have made significant progress on issues such as affordable housing, behavioral health, criminal justice, and community development. I am committed to continuing this important work and addressing the challenges facing our communities.”
Zahilay was first elected to the County Council in 2019 and has since become a strong voice for the region. His long list of accomplishments in his first term, include:
• Launching the Youth Achievement Center campaign to build a housing and jobs center for unhoused youth in South Seattle.
• Establishing a $5 million economic development program in unincorporated King County
• Expanding public transit options for residents of Skyway and other South King County neighborhoods by helping to secure $6 million for Via on-demand van service
• Championed Skyway Affordable Housing by directing a $10 million investment to an affordable home ownership and an affordable rental development in the community
• Secured $5 million for youth mental health services
• Helped create Participatory Budgeting for unincorporated King County, leading to the first ever community-voted funds awarded to projects such as Street Beautification in the Skyway Business District, Hewet Skyway Community Garden, “Welcome Home” down payment assistance, and more
• Led the funding and creation of a $2 million community-based gun violence prevention program
“Girmay has been a tireless advocate for the people of King County,” said Council Chair Claudia Balducci. “His leadership and dedication to our community have been invaluable and I am pleased to support his reelection campaign.”
The re-election rally on Jan. 21 will be an opportunity for community members to meet Zahilay and hear more about his plans for the future. The event will also feature pizza, guest speakers, and music.
“I am excited to continue working on behalf of the residents of King County and I am confident that together, we can build a brighter future for our community,” said Zahilay. “I hope to see you all at the rally on January 21st and at the luncheon on March 30th.”
The election for King County Council will take place in November 2023. Zahilay’s campaign will focus on continuing to address the affordable housing crisis, improving transportation options, and providing behavioral health and public safety services.
