Why Zahilay’s $746M King County budget invests while Seattle cuts

King County Executive Girmay Zahilay has proposed a $746 million supplemental budget for 2026–2027 that includes $198 million for healthcare facilities, $100 million for land conservation, $64.4 million for the RapidRide R transit line, and $19.5 million for shelter and housing units. Unlike Seattle’s immediate budget cuts, the county can afford investments because its projected $120 million shortfall doesn’t arrive until 2028–2029. The King County Council is now reviewing the proposal.