This Week on PubliCola: February 22, 2025

Unsheltered people challenge Burien's sleeping ban, a new state proposal would fund mandatory affordable housing in new developments, and an in-depth look at the deadly SCORE jail in South King County

SCORE jail in Des Moines, where at least 11 people have died in custody in the past two years.

By Erica C. Barnett

Tuesday, February 18

Unsheltered People Suing to Overturn Burien’s Sleeping Ban Get Their Day In Court

A judge held the first hearing in a lawsuit against Burien’s total ban on sleeping or “residing” outdoors in the city, challenging the city to explain how the ban would be applied and how it differs from banishment.

Wednesday, February 19

The City’s Maritime Industrial Area is No Place for Housing

In a guest editorial, representatives from industry argue that a proposal to allow housing on land just south of the two Seattle stadiums would be devastating to the local economy and dangerous for future residents.

Thursday, February 20

Seattle Should Follow State’s Lead on Inclusionary Zoning—By Funding It

Maybe Metropolis columnist Josh Feit takes a look at a state proposal that would require developers to include some affordable housing in projects they build around transit stations. Unlike previous proposals, this bipartisan bill includes a Republican amendment that would actually fund affordable housing, making it viable.

Seattle Nice Sits Down with Joy Hollingsworth

Seattle City Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth came on the podcast this week for a wide-ranging conversation covering everything from her recent vote against the recent “less lethal” weapons legislation to her position on density in the comprehensive plan. We also talked about efforts to shut down a longstanding nude beach in her council district.

Friday, February 21

Eleven People Have Died at this South King County Jail in the Last Two Years. Their Families Are Demanding Answers.

Reporter Andrew Engelson took an in-depth look at conditions inside SCORE jail in South King County, where at least 11 people have died in the last two years alone. Families of people who have died in SCORE custody, former medical staff, and people incarcerated at SCORE told PubliCola the jail is plagued by inadequate care, filthy conditions, and hostile staff.