Toplines from County Councilmember Joe McDermott’s online Town Hall
Housing and transportation were the main topics on Tuesday night when local King County Councilmember Joe McDermott‘s online Town Hall got to Q&A.
McDermott, the council’s vice chair, started with a recap of changes and accomplishments. In the former category, his district is changing with the recent redistricting, including adding “the south half of Burien.” In the latter, he recounted the pandemic response – including more “supplemental budgets’ than usual – as well as the unincorporated-area fireworks ban and the bicycle-helmet law repeal.
Before he wrapped up introductory remarks, he reminded attendees about the Subarea Plan process.
The first question was about Sound Transit, which is currently taking comments on its Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the West Seattle and Ballard extensions. (McDermott is on the ST Board.) The attendee was concerned about issues including cost and displacement. Regarding the former, McDermott acknowledged that the ‘cost delta” between the “preferred alternative” and some other options had shrunk, and the community might be able to get a desirable outcome without third-party funding. Another attendee said the Andover station option in North Delridge had a better chance of “preserving neighborhood character.” McDermptt did not commit to support for that option but said he’d welcome taking his board colleagues on a tour of the area.
What’s the county doing about homelessness? McDermott mentioned the launch of the Regional Homelessness Authority and initiatives such as Health Through Housing. Another question about homelessness – what can be done to make more resources available on Vashon Island? McDermott promised to work with islanders. Yet another attendee wanted to see something done to make it easier to build low-income housing – maybe lower costs and fees. Will the county change zoning to support more “middle” housing? McDermott agreed that more density was needed.
What can be done about trash along Highway 509? McDermott said it’s a tangled web of jurisdictions, along a state highway.
Someone else brought up air-traffic noise; McDermott directed them to the FAA.
Another attendee pitched for McDermott to support the National Infrastructure Bank.
As the hour wrapped up, McDermott promised another Town Hall in the future. Meantime, if you have questions/comments/issues, here’s how to contact him: joe.mcdermott@kingcounty.gov
-Tracy Record, WCN editor
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