Burien Development News
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June 15, 2026 City Council Meeting
Published: Jun 15, 2026
Burien Council Discusses Port of Seattle's Sustainable Airport Master Plan Draft EIS Amidst Community Concerns
The Burien City Council received a presentation on the Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) Near-Term Project Draft State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Port of Seattle, represented by Dave Kaplan and Adam Mayer, explained the SAMP's purpose to address increasing passenger and cargo volumes through near-term projects like a second terminal and enhanced taxiways. The SEPA review, a voluntary EIS process by the Port, builds on the FAA's NEPA review and includes additional analyses on air quality, noise, human health, and environmental justice. While the FAA found no significant impact overall, the SEPA EIS identified surface transportation as having significant impacts that the Port will mitigate with a $40 million investment. The public comment period for the draft EIS runs from May 22nd to July 21st, with multiple public meetings and online options available. Council members raised concerns about the impact on adjacent communities, particularly regarding noise, pollution, economic disparity, and the need for compensation and extended public comment periods. The Port committed to reviewing all comments and responding in the final EIS.
Burien Council Prepares for Budget Prioritization and Levy Discussions, Reviews Strategic Plan Progress
The Burien City Council discussed potential budget priorities and levy discussions for the upcoming 2027-2028 biennial budget. Finance Director Casey and consultant Jennifer Howry from All Angles Consulting led the discussion, aiming to prepare the council for a July 6th study session. They reviewed the existing 2023-2028 vision and strategic plan, highlighting four key priorities: achieving financial stability, achieving racial equity, centering community accountability, and reshaping community through smart, mindful development. The council was asked to identify focus areas for the budget, including service level expectations and potential levy explorations. Staff will present preliminary budget scenarios based on council's direction, revenue forecasts, and expense categorizations. A discussion on a potential new levy, distinct from the previously failed public safety levy, was also initiated, with a focus on community input and timing. Council Member Andrade shared positive feedback on past staff efforts regarding levy development and stressed community participation. Deputy Mayor Garcia highlighted the need to review progress on the strategic plan, particularly the 'achieving racial equity' priority, which is currently at 40% completion. Council Member DeVito raised questions about the possibility of a Metropolitan Parks District and the associated complexities and potential for inheriting infrastructure issues, similar to past experiences. The discussion also touched upon the need for a strong vocabulary and clear communication strategy for budget discussions and community engagement.
Burien Council Issues Proclamation for U.S. Semi-Quincentennial, Emphasizing Reflection on History
The Burien City Council received a proclamation recognizing the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States on July 4th, 2026. Council Member Mendez presented the proclamation, acknowledging historical complexities including the treatment of Indigenous peoples, the legacy of slavery, the labor of immigrants, and the contributions of laborers to societal advancements. Mayor Sarah Moore and other council members acknowledged the significance of the anniversary while also noting the importance of reflecting on the nation's history and ongoing struggles for justice and equality. A guest family from Afghanistan, the Muhaba family, who moved to Burien in 2021, was invited to receive the proclamation. Council Member Mendez and Mayor Moore emphasized the proclamation as an opportunity for reflection and reaffirmation of ideals.
Council Member Schilling Notes Existing Data Centers, Urges Thoughtful Regulation for Burien
During the discussion on a potential data center moratorium, Council Member Schilling noted that data centers already exist in the region, citing a SABE data center complex near Military Road in North Burien and others in Kent. He emphasized the need for the city to be 'smarter' and 'thoughtful' about potential data center development, rather than simply saying 'absolutely not.' He appreciated the staff's proposed list of study areas, including economic benefits, infrastructure impacts, environmental conditions, and land use compatibility. Schilling suggested that the city should aim to develop regulations that work for the community, acknowledging that different data centers vary in scale and impact. He expressed excitement about the upcoming study and indicated that a moratorium might not be strictly necessary if the city can proceed thoughtfully with analysis, but he also acknowledged that a moratorium would provide the most certainty in closing the door to new applications while research is conducted.
Council Member Mendez Highlights Need for Study, Public Input, and Legal Prudence Regarding Data Centers
During the discussion on a data center moratorium, Council Member Mendez expressed support for the city taking time to study the issue and gather public input, acknowledging the potential environmental impacts of data centers. He also suggested comparing these impacts to those of other sectors and land uses. Mendez raised concerns about the potential legal risks of the city arbitrarily denying applications on a case-by-case basis if a moratorium is not in place, noting that such decisions could face legal challenges if not well-founded. He cited a recent Gallup poll indicating significant public opposition to AI data centers across political parties, emphasizing the sensitivity of the issue.
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