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King County Executive Girmay Zahilay

@executive.zahilay

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Girmay Zahilay is the elected Executive of the 39 cities and unincorporated areas of King County, WA.

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a day ago

Every day, King County employees show up to serve our communities.

This week, I had the privilege of recognizing employees whose careers span decades of public service. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but it makes a difference in the lives of people across King County every day.

Congratulations to everyone recognized at the King County Employee Service Awards. Thank you for your dedication, your commitment, and for everything you do to serve our community.

Video description:
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay presents Employee Service Awards in the King County Council Chambers as employees are recognized for 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 years of public service. One employee becomes emotional while accepting an award, followed by a montage of recipients receiving certificates, shaking hands with the Executive, smiling for photos, and being applauded by family, friends, and colleagues. On-screen text reads, “Reminder: this is their first time living, too.” followed by, “This is how we recognize their decades of public service.” taken in King County by @executive.zahilay

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2 days ago

Just a few years ago, only 19 kokanee salmon returned to Lake Sammamish to spawn. Last year, more than 8,300 returned.

That’s what can happen when Tribes, local governments, scientists, and community partners come together with a shared commitment to protecting our environment.

I’m grateful to everyone in the Lake Sammamish Kokanee Work Group for helping make this remarkable recovery possible.

Video description:
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay speaks at the Lake Sammamish Kokanee Work Group gathering on a sunny day. The video shows attendees listening to remarks, conversations with Tribal leaders and community partners, a traditional salmon bake over an open fire, and views of the gathering at the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe’s Harvest Kitchen. taken in King County by @executive.zahilay

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3 days ago

Thank you to the Lake Sammamish Kokanee Work Group for a day like this.

Last year, more than 8,300 kokanee salmon returned to Lake Sammamish after years of collaborative restoration efforts. It’s a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together and stay committed.

Thank you to the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe for hosting this year’s gathering and for your leadership in protecting a species that has sustained communities in this region since time immemorial. King County Executive Girmay Zahilay holds his young daughter while standing inside the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe's Harvest Kitchen. He smiles as he looks off to the side, while his daughter looks toward the camera. The warm wood interior and open kitchen create a welcoming backdrop. taken in Snoqualmie, Washington by @executive.zahilay

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4 days ago

With wildfires burning in Washington and hotter weather this week, take care of yourself and loved ones who may be at higher risk of heat stroke, or heart or lung issues from wildfire smoke.

If you don't have AC at home (like many Washingtonians), head to a cool indoor place like a mall or library when AQI is above 150 (or above 100 for sensitive groups). If your body feels too hot at home, put a wet towel around your neck or take a cool bath.

Visit kingcounty.gov/WildfireSmoke for more information and resources, and kingcounty.govBeatTheHeat for heat resources. by @executive.zahilay

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5 days ago

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5 days ago

For South King County’s immigrant, refugee, and multilingual families, accessible and culturally responsive care is rare, and when it exists, it’s often split across different doors.

That’s why we built it all under one roof: early learning and behavioral health support together, in the same place, from people families already trust.

This week, we were grateful to give King County Executive Girmay Zahilay a guided tour of that model in action at our Center for Learning and Healing in Tukwila, and to talk through what it will take to bring it to more families across the county.

Thank you, Executive Zahilay, for taking the time to see this work up close, and for your continued leadership on childcare access and affordability by @executive.zahilay

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8 days ago

The results are in. ⚽️

King County made history as a FIFA World Cup host, and we couldn’t have done it without our residents, local businesses, and the thousands of King County employees who worked behind the scenes to make this tournament a success.

Together, we:
🚆 Welcomed millions of transit riders throughout the tournament.
🌎 Hosted visitors from around the world.
🏙️ Supported local businesses and celebrations across King County.
🤝 Kept matches, watch parties, and communities safe, welcoming, and moving.

Amazing run, Team USA! 🇺🇸 Thank you for bringing so much excitement and joy to the nation. Seattle and King County were proud to host you this summer.

The tournament isn’t over yet! Join us this Sunday at King County’s Marymoor Park for the World Cup Final Watch Party, just steps from the Redmond light rail station. taken in King County by @executive.zahilay

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8 days ago

A more connected King County is one where every resident can access opportunity, whether that’s getting to work, accessing services, or staying connected to their community.

Today we’re highlighting some of the work we’ve done to strengthen transit, improve mobility, support climate resilience, and invest in the infrastructure that will serve our region for generations.

We’re building a stronger, more connected King County, and we’re just getting started. Executive Girmay Zahilay stands in front of a Metro bus and transit station. Text reads: "Our Work So Far: Building a More Connected King County. Since Taking Office November 2025." taken in King County by @executive.zahilay

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8 days ago

The best solutions come from listening, showing up, and working alongside the people we serve.

Today we’re continuing our Our Work So Far series by highlighting investments in children, families, neighborhoods, and community partnerships that are helping build a stronger King County.

Real progress happens when government works alongside the people it serves, and I’m grateful to everyone helping move this work forward. King County Executive Girmay Zahilay stands in a community space. Text reads: "Our Work So Far: Be in Community. Since Taking Office November 2025." taken in King County by @executive.zahilay

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9 days ago

Youth and young adult employment is a major priority for our administration. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Year Up United to expand internship opportunities and create pathways to meaningful careers.

This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Year Up United interns serving across King County government and hear about the experiences shaping their careers.

My own journey to leading Washington state’s largest local government didn’t happen by accident. People invested in me, opened doors, and believed in my potential. That’s why programs like Year Up United matter. They give talented young people the hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunity they need to succeed.

Over the past three years, King County has welcomed about 90 Year Up United interns, and many have gone on to full-time careers serving our region.
Investing in emerging talent strengthens our workforce, our communities, and our future. taken in Seattle, Washington by @executive.zahilay

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9 days ago

Every person deserves the opportunity to thrive.

That means addressing the root causes of homelessness, addiction, and behavioral health challenges so more people can find stability and build a brighter future.

Today we’re kicking off our Our Work So Far series by highlighting the progress we’ve made to expand affordable housing, strengthen crisis care, and invest in long-term solutions that help people move forward.

I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and there’s much more work ahead. King County Executive Girmay Zahilay stands in front of a scenic view of King County with the title "Our Work So Far" and the subtitle "Breaking the Cycle." taken in King County by @executive.zahilay

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10 days ago