District 2

Question 1

Public Safety: The DSA’s core mission is to create a healthy, vibrant downtown for all. It is no secret that the pandemic took a heavy toll on downtowns across the country and Seattle is no exception. As we work toward recovery on all fronts, issues of public safety downtown continue to be one of the top themes we hear from stakeholders. How will you address public safety in downtown Seattle?
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Tanya Woo

I recognize the crucial need to address public safety in downtown Seattle as we navigate the path to recovery. As a small business owner and affordable housing provider in the Chinatown International District (CID), I have been trying to address public safety concerns. Collaboration and community engagement are key components of my approach.

I support community-based policing alternatives in addition to a fully staffed police force. My group, the CID Community Watch, is an alternative to policing and a communication network. By building relationships and trust within our community of residents and business owners we can enhance safety together.

The CID Community watch group tries to prioritize prevention and intervention. We have de-escalated fights, stopped vandalism and graffiti. We have also tried to connect people experiencing homelessness to services. We carry Narcan and have provided CPR. We pass out Fentanyl testing strips. We have also led in other initiatives such as information dissemination in language, senior escorts, self-defense classes, and adverse weather assistance.

The CID had the highest crime rate last year with a record amount of homicides. We helped amplify voices to draw attention to the years of under-investment. I am now working on a 12th Ave plan that will be very similar to the 3rd Ave plan.

Together we can address public safety concerns, restore our police force, amplify community-based programs, and create a thriving, inclusive downtown for all.

Margaret Elisabeth

Workers, business owners, residents and tourists should feel confident they can visit a baseball game or the upcoming World Cup matches without worry. I’ll work with stakeholders to find solutions which increase the health and vibrancy of our city’s downtown core.

Question 3

Fiscal Priorities: Given the fragile state of downtown’s revitalization, do you agree that the City should prioritize existing spending before imposing new taxes or increasing existing ones? In a detailed manner, please describe how you would propose addressing the budget issues the city is facing.
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Tanya Woo

I firmly believe in prioritizing existing spending and ensuring fiscal prudence before considering new taxes or increasing current ones. The fragile state of downtown’s revitalization necessitates a careful approach to address the city’s budget issues.

To tackle these challenges, I propose a comprehensive strategy that emphasizes accountability and effective resource allocation. A thorough review of existing expenditures across city agencies and programs is imperative to identify areas of inefficiency and redirect resources where they are most needed.

I have previously expressed my frustrations with agencies like the King County Regional Homelessness Authority that receive substantial taxpayer funds without sufficient accountability for delivering tangible results. To address this, I will advocate for robust performance evaluation systems that measure outcomes and ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Results-driven contracts and transparent reporting will be essential in holding these agencies accountable.

Furthermore, I am committed to an inclusive budgeting process that involves community input, business collaboration, and stakeholder engagement. By incorporating diverse perspectives, we can make informed decisions that align with the needs and priorities of our city.

Margaret Elisabeth

According to a Seattle Times article the recent Capital Gains tax on dividends brought in an estimated $248 million more than projected, [sic] this money should be put into the general fund to cover any budgetary shortfalls.

Question 5

Return to Office: One of the most impactful things we can do to drive downtown revitalization is to get more people here – visitors, tourists, residents and perhaps most importantly, workers. A steady and consistent flow of employees downtown who are eating, drinking, shopping and engaging in recreation brings much needed support for our small businesses and public spaces. Do you believe that city workers should work in person three or more days per week?
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Tanya Woo

I support requiring city workers to be in person for three or more days per week, I believe the best solution is to do it incrementally. We must first create an environment where people feel safe and want to come downtown.

Encouraging city workers to be physically present downtown help drive revitalization by increasing foot traffic and supporting local businesses. It creates a vibrant atmosphere where employees can engage in dining, shopping, and recreational activities during their breaks and after work, contributing to the overall vitality of downtown.

However, it is equally important to recognize that people’s preferences and work styles have evolved, especially in the wake of the pandemic. We should start with having city workers work in person for three days and have it increase with the goal of 4 or 5 days a week.

To attract workers and visitors downtown willingly, we must focus on enhancing the downtown experience. This includes creating inviting public spaces, supporting cultural events, improving infrastructure, and ensuring safety and cleanliness. By investing in these aspects, we can make downtown an attractive destination that draws people not only because they have to be there, but because they genuinely want to be part of the vibrant downtown community.

Margaret Elisabeth

No.