Seattle Foundation Blog

Element Notes

In this roundup, Washington state responds to Trump pulling out of the Paris Agreement, the state government may face a partial shutdown and Seattle passes a controversial soda tax

June 19, 2017

Deep community knowledge is a key benefit of working with Seattle Foundation. Our team has extensive knowledge about community issues and trends, as well as an expansive network of relationships with nonprofit organizations working locally, nationally and globally. We track key developments in each element of our Healthy Community Framework: Arts & Culture, Basic Needs, Economy, Education, Environment, Health & Wellness, Vibrant Communities and Global Giving. Every other week, we compile Element Notes to share the latest developments affecting efforts to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

Basic Needs

To Afford a One-Bedroom Apartment in Seattle, a Minimum Wage Worker Has to Work 87 Hours Per Week
A new report shows just how much it takes to afford to live in Seattle, one of the hottest housing markets in the county: $24 an hour or about 87 hours of work per week at the current minimum wage.

The New Homelessness Count Numbers Are Bad. But What Do They Tell Us?
Blogger Erica Barnett interprets the numbers for the new point-in-time count of homeless individuals in Seattle and King County.

Economy

State Government Stumbles Toward Shutdown
The state government may have to partly shut down July 1, as it’s looking increasingly likely the legislature will not come to a budget resolution in time. The main sticking point is how to pay for the Washington Supreme Court’s McCleary ruling, which requires sufficient funding of the state’s schools.

Environment

As Trump Drops Paris Climate Agreement, Washington Activists and Leaders Double Down
Trump has taken America out of the historic accord, signed by nearly 200 countries in December 2015, which is designed to combat the worst effects of climate change by setting a goal to cap global warming at a maximum of two degrees Celsius. In reaction, Washington politicians and activists have reaffirmed their commitment to the accord and are building alliances with other west coast partners.

Health and Wellness

Seattle’s Brand New Tax: Soda
Amid controversy and opposition from business, labor and lobbyists for beverage makers, the Seattle City Council on June 5 approved a new tax on sugary drinks, 7-1. The goals of the bill are to generate revenue for before and after school programs, healthy meal programs and food banks, as well as to steer people toward healthier options.

Vibrant Communities

Thousands Gather in Solidarity at Seattle Pride March
During a precarious political time for LGBTQ people and at the near one-year anniversary of the Pulse nightclub shooting, Seattle came together to celebrate Pride.

Mayor Announces $1.1 Million for Community-Based Projects
Mayor Murray has announced $1.1 million in matching fund awards for 28 community-based projects across the city, including more than $263,000 for several South Seattle efforts and organizations.

Gritty and Gentrified, White Center Celebrates Diversity and Community
The Seattle Times does a deep dive into the diverse and rapidly changing White Center area.

Philanthropy

Foundations Must Move Fast to Fight Climate Change
Two foundation leaders say grantmakers can have a significant impact on climate change and that the less than 2 percent of all philanthropic dollars being spent on this issue are not enough.