Seattle Mayor Unveils 2025 Budget Plan Amid Controversy

Mayor Bruce Harrell's budget proposal aims to close a $251 million shortfall by diverting funds from affordable housing and cutting city jobs, sparking debate among community groups.

• Mayor Harrell's budget plan redirects $287 million from the JumpStart tax, originally meant for affordable housing and environmental initiatives, to the general fund.
• The proposal includes $100 million in new spending, with a significant portion allocated to public safety, including a $60 million increase for the Seattle Police Department.
• To address the budget gap, the plan proposes cutting 159 city jobs, primarily from internal-facing departments, while preserving public-facing roles.
• Critics argue that the budget sacrifices crucial affordable housing funds and call for new taxes on large companies and wealthy individuals instead.
• The City Council will review and potentially modify the budget plan, with public hearings scheduled for October 12 and November 12, and a final vote set for November 21.

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