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WA child welfare deaths drop significantly after record year

Deaths and critical injuries among children in Washington’s child welfare system fell steeply in the first quarter of 2026, state officials reported June 24.

Democratic Leaders Launch ‘No Hate in WA State’ Campaign Opposing Anti-Trans Ballot Measures

Last week, a campaign launched against two ballot measures that opponents say would be a blow to the rights of queer kids. The anti-trans measures are bankrolled by conservative multimillionaires, mirroring efforts in other states.

New Report Outlines Clear Case for Removing SR 99 Through South Park

"Rerouting and reclaiming" State Route 99 through South Park would unlock 100 acres of space for ecological restoration, housing, and businesses. While three other options for transforming the highway were considered, removal rose to the top.

Mayor Hires Temporary New Comms Team; Councilmembers Tell SPD: Keep Hiring, We’ll Pay for It!

1. Mayor Katie Wilson is hiring two new temporary communications staffers: Crystal Nicole Fincher—the political consultant, podcast host, and co-owner… The post Mayor Hires Temporary New Comms Team; Councilmembers Tell SPD: Keep Hiring, We’ll Pay for It! appeared first on PubliCola.

SPD May Slow Hiring in 2026 Amid Budget, Training Challenges

Seattle police hiring could slow despite rising officer numbers, as budget pressures and training bottlenecks reshape staffing plans that could affect response across neighborhoods, including the South End.

Speed camera fines to increase in work zones beginning July 1 | WSDOT

Infraction penalties have risen from $0 to $125; second and subsequent penalties remain at $248.

Overwhelmed? It’s time to focus on just a few | In Focus

The temptation to block everything out is strong. Now’s not the time to bury your head in the sand.

Discounts and a deciduous disaster | The Compleat Home Gardener

Also, tips on gravel gardens for a lower water bill.

COLUMN | In Rainier Beach, Not Every Gunshot Means Danger - But It Feels Like It

Caravan of Care Brings Free Health Services to Goodwill on Dearborn

From dental cleanings to ORCA card help, Evergreen Goodwill's outdoor resource fair on Dearborn aims to meet community needs in one place.

County’s Midyear Budget Sparks Controversy Over Harm Reduction, Human Service Contracts, and Lobbyists

1. After PubliCola reported on a King County Council supplemental budget amendment that would have prohibited spending county funds on safer… The post County’s Midyear Budget Sparks Controversy Over Harm Reduction, Human Service Contracts, and Lobbyists appeared first on PubliCola.

Sales Were Up at Pike Place After Pedestrian Pilot. Is That...Bad?

In the wake of news of increased sales across Pike Place Market after a pedestrian pilot was implemented, the advocacy group Friends of the Market is attempting to poke holes in that data. But the evidence for "worrisome trends" is paper thin.