NEWS GLEAMS | Seattle May Receive $240M Less Revenue Than Previously Projected; Renton Shooting Leaves One Teen Dead and One Injured

The City of Seattle's Office of Economic and Revenue Forecasts (OERF) has released its latest revenue projections for the next two years, which predict a $240 million decrease in revenue from previously estimated levels. OERF revised its forecast while taking into account the city's weak job market and the country's potential economic uncertainty in general.

Mayor Bruce Harrell released a statement, saying, "Effective immediately, I am directing departments to preserve funding, including reducing or ending discretionary spending on items like travel, non-essential equipment upgrades, and new consultant contracts. The City's hiring freeze remains in place, and we will decide whether to pause or reduce investments in new projects and programming included in the adopted budget on a case-by-case basis."

He suggested that during the upcoming annual September budget proposal, the government would take a "holistic approach to considering the need for new progressive revenues to sustain services that are at risk from Trump's actions and declines in revenue," as well as take "a big-picture view of potential expense reductions by looking at lines of business and program outcomes."

Harrell said he would be sharing similar guidance with City Councilmembers, the city attorney, and the Seattle Municipal Court, so that different branches of government might work together cohesively.

The OERF releases budget revenue projections four times a year, documenting revenues received as of March 31, June 30, Sept. 30, and Dec. 31. The Dec. 31 report, published in March 2025, offers the latest look at the City's budget.

A Sunday night shooting in Renton left one teenager dead and another injured. The incident took place near Bronson Way Northeast and Vuemont Place Northeast, around 5 p.m.

Four teens were traveling in the same vehicle when another vehicle allegedly pulled up alongside them and opened fire. The motive remains unknown.

The driver of the vehicle, who was not harmed, attempted to drive the victims to the hospital. They stopped on Rainier Avenue South before reaching the hospital.

One of the victims was pronounced dead on Rainier Avenue South, while the other was brought to Harborview Medical Center. The latter is in stable condition.

The Renton Police Department is continuing to investigate the situation and welcomes anyone to share tips or details.

ECOSS seeks applicants for its 2025 Outdoor Leadership Cohort, which is open to participants over 18 of any skill level. Those who have not had prior opportunities with the outdoors would be given priority, and members of BIPOC and immigrant communities are encouraged to apply. Up to a $1,000 stipend is available for the completion of the program.

The program schedule includes activities across a number of venues both inside and outside Seattle and centered around topics such as camping, white water rafting, beaches, kayaking, foraging, and more.

Apply by May 14. Questions can be directed to xliu@ecoss.org, and applications can be completed at tinyurl.com/outdoorlead2025.

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