Katie Wilson Announces Key Departmental Leadership and Priorities
Katie Wilson sits in the Black Media Matters Studio during a recent interview on “The Big O Show.” (Photo: Jordan Somers)
In a recent press release, Mayor-elect Katie Wilson announced decisions regarding the leadership of the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), the Seattle Human Services Department (HSD), and the Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL). These decisions are meant to align with Wilson’s top three priorities: addressing the homelessness crisis, reducing childcare costs, and improving the transportation system.
Investing in Transportation
On building a reliable and safe transportation network for all modes of travel, Wilson said the next year is pivotal, with Sound Transit decisions on West Seattle and Ballard Link and the renewal of the Seattle Transportation Measure.
Wilson announced Angela Brady as the Interim Director for the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), replacing Adiam Emery. Brady comes from the Office of the Waterfront, Civic Projects and Sound Transit, where she oversaw the new Waterfront Park's implementation. Her focus will include addressing the maintenance backlog and advancing the vision for world-class transit, protected bike lanes, and accessible sidewalks.
Addressing Homelessness
Reducing unsheltered homelessness is a primary focus for the incoming administration, Wilson said, with a particular need for quick action to open new emergency housing and shelter beds before the World Cup in June 2026.
To lead this effort, Mayor-elect Wilson is retaining Tanya Kim as the Director of the Seattle Human Services Department (HSD). In the press release, Kim expressed her confidence in the department's readiness to implement the mayor’s vision and move quickly to provide care and shelter.
Childcare Affordability and Accessibility
A key commitment for the new administration, according to Wilson, is to work with families and providers to develop policies that expand access to affordable childcare. Dr. Dwane Chappelle will be retained as the Director of the Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL) to partner on this initiative.
The renewed FEPP Levy is highlighted as a historic investment, set to bring affordable, high-quality childcare to 4,500 children and support 5,000 childcare workers annually, which Dr. Chappelle noted in the press release is essential infrastructure for the city's economic vitality.
