Category: Executive Office
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Executive Zahilay Statement on Historic Election for Washington State and the Country
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay released the following statement on Tuesday night following election results: “Tonight, voters across the country sent a clear message that they want a different direction for our country. In rejecting President Trump’s divisive policies, the results show that everyday Americans are tired of an agenda that puts the interests of…
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Rain or Shine, We Show Up: King County Kicks Off First Regional Day of Service
On Saturday, Oct. 17, Executive Girmay Zahilay joined the Duwamish Alive Coalition, King County Volunteer Corps, employees, and residents for the county’s inaugural Regional Day of Service. Rain in the forecast and wind on the way didn’t stop more than 60 volunteers from showing up at White Center Heights Park to make a difference. The…
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Executive Zahilay Proposes $746 Million Supplemental Budget, Making Major Investments in Housing, Transportation, and Infrastructure
Summary King County Executive Girmay Zahilay today transmitted a $746 million supplemental budget to the King County Council, investing in new affordable housing and shelter, maintaining and modernizing critical infrastructure, and preserving parks and natural areas. Story King County – Today, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay transmitted a $746 million supplemental budget to the King…
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Executive Zahilay Statement on Shooting at Seattle Center
Today, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay released the following statement after a shooting at Seattle Center: “I’m horrified by the shooting at Seattle Center this evening during the Bite of Seattle. As someone who grew up in this community, I know what this event means to so many families, young people, and neighbors across our…
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King County Executive Girmay Zahilay appoints Matt Smith to lead the Department of Human Resources
Accomplished leader who believes an organization’s greatest strength is its people tapped to lead King County’s Department of Human Resources King County, WA – King County Executive Girmay Zahilay appointed Matt Smith to serve as the Director of the King County Department of Human Resources (DHR), pending Council confirmation. Smith will lead the department which supports King County’s workforce of more than 18,000 employees. “Matt Smith…
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Dr. Susan McLaughlin confirmed as Director of King County Department of Community and Human Services
KING COUNTY – King County Executive Girmay Zahilay celebrated the confirmation this week of Dr. Susan McLaughlin as Director of the King County Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS). The King County Council confirmed Dr. McLaughlin on Tuesday, June 16 following Executive Zahilay’s nomination earlier this year. “Dr. Susan McLaughlin is a thoughtful leader who brings deep expertise and…
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Executive Girmay Zahilay Delivers 2026 State of the County Address: Building A More Connected King County
King County – Today, Executive Girmay Zahilay delivered the 2026 State of the County address, focused on building a more connected King County. This was Executive Zahilay’s first State of the County speech since taking office in November 2025 as the first new executive in 16 years and as the first immigrant, refugee, and millennial to hold the position. …
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Executive Zahilay’s State of the County Remarks As Prepared
Thank you, Mayor Ralph. Thank you Mayor Ferrell for hosting us in Federal Way at this beautiful venue. Chair Perry, members of the County Council, leaders of our sovereign tribes, labor partners, elected officials, King County employees, and residents: Good evening. I’m Girmay Zahilay and I want to welcome you to my first ever State of the County address. …
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Executive Zahilay Highlights Early Progress to Improve Financial Stewardship and Accountability at King County
Efforts include expanded fraud prevention training, cross-departmental coordination in grant management, and a new internal audit function Summary King County is making progress to implement Executive Girmay Zahilay’s Better Government Executive Order to strengthen financial oversight and improve the accountability and transparency of government services. Story Today, Executive Zahilay highlighted the early progress that has been made over the last two months to implement his Better Government Executive Order and improve…
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On 100th day, Executive Zahilay signs new Executive Order to strengthen King County’s governance practices and financial stewardship
Summary Executive Girmay Zahilay announced an Executive Order establishing better governance practices to strengthen financial oversight and improve accountability and transparency in government operations. Story Today, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay signed a new Executive Order to strengthen King County’s governance and financial management practices. The Executive Order calls for stronger cost controls and establishes governance practices that promote better accountability and transparency. The…