Courtesy of Girmay Zahilay's office
King County Council Chair Girmay Zahilay (center in burgundy suit) smiles with WA Attorney General Nick Brown (navy suit) and neighborhood and regional leaders at the Washington State Democrats Convention.
King County Council has selected Girmay Zahilay as the next Council Chair.
“Serving as chair of the King County Council and leader of the legislative branch is an honor,” said Zahilay.
While Seattle’s City Council often occupies more headlines, it is the King County Council that sets policies, enacts laws, and adopts budgets that guide an array of services that include transit, public health and human services, water treatment and waste management, regional parks and trails, and oversees elections, records, and licensing. As Council Chair, Zahilay plans to prioritize efficient governance and ensure that the Council operations run smoothly while effectively addressing the region's most pressing challenges.
Girmay Zahilay is a business attorney and nonprofit founder who joined the King County Council in 2019 as the youngest member ever elected. As a former refugee and recipient of public housing, and a graduate of Seattle Public Schools, Zahilay understands how critical these services are. He is committed to advancing policies that help all of our residents, businesses, and the environment thrive.
“Together, we will tackle the challenges that lie ahead — whether improving our public services, making neighborhoods more safe, addressing the housing crisis, or strengthening our economy,” Zahilay said.