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The Seattle City Council has unanimously voted to rename a segment of 2nd Ave N to Sue Bird Court, honoring the four-time WNBA champion and Seattle Storm legend. Councilmember Rob Saka praised Bird's significant contributions to the city and her advocacy on social issues. This recognition reflects her enduring legacy both on and off the basketball court.
The Seattle City Council is considering a $1.8 million pilot program to implement a new surveillance system that integrates Closed-Circuit Television cameras with real-time crime center software in select public areas. While gunshot detection technology was excluded, the initiative aims to enhance public safety and crime analysis in neighborhoods such as Aurora Ave N and the International District. Evaluations of the program will occur after the first and second years to assess its effectiveness and potential citywide rollout.
Seattle City Council has adopted the Stay Out of Drug Areas (SODA) legislation, which empowers courts to prohibit individuals convicted of drug-related offenses from entering specific city zones. This new law aims to enhance public safety and reduce drug-related criminal activity in key areas, reflecting the council's commitment to community safety.
Seattle City Councilmember Maritza Rivera, alongside fellow councilmembers, introduced an alternative to ballot Initiative 137 aimed at improving affordable housing in the city. The proposed Council Bill 120864 would allocate $10 million annually to the Seattle Social Housing Developer, with an emphasis on accountability and effective use of public funds. Mayor Bruce Harrell supports providing voters with this alternative option.
The Seattle City Council has passed Councilmember Cathy Moore’s bill aimed at combating commercial sexual exploitation with an 8-1 vote. The legislation includes measures such as prohibiting loitering for prostitution and enabling judges to issue Stay Out of Area Prostitution (SOAP) orders, responding to community concerns over escalating violence associated with these activities.
Councilmember Tammy J. Morales expressed her discontent regarding the passing of CB 120835 (SODA) and CB 120836 (SOAP) during a recent City Council meeting. She emphasized the need for evidence-based solutions to tackle public health crises, criticizing the legislation for potentially hindering access to essential services.
KIRO Newsradio hosts discussed the implications of the Boeing machinists' strike involving 33,000 workers, marking the company's first strike in years. They raised concerns about corporate decisions prioritizing stockholder interests over employee welfare, highlighting the broader economic impacts on the community.
The arrival of RapidRideG-33 marks a significant development in Seattle's public transit system, aiming to enhance accessibility and efficiency despite facing operational challenges. This article details the ambitious goals associated with the new bus service, alongside the hiccups encountered regarding bus stops, signage, and signals, reflecting the impact on the Capitol Hill community.
The East Design Review Board has approved a six-story mixed-use development on the former QFC block of 15th Ave E in Capitol Hill, Seattle. This decision, which includes a zoning departure to preserve a European hornbeam tree, has faced some neighborhood opposition but is poised to contribute to the area's commercial growth. Construction is expected to begin within the next year, replacing the existing buildings, including the old QFC grocery store.
Mezcaleria Oaxaca will close its doors on October 1st after a decade of service on E Pine, marking the second significant Mexican restaurant closure in Capitol Hill in recent weeks. The restaurant, known for its collaborations with renowned Mexican chefs and a diverse menu, struggled to adapt to the evolving regulations and economic landscape post-pandemic. While Mezcaleria Oaxaca closes, its sister establishments, La Carta de Oaxaca and El Mezcalito, will remain operational.