Updates & Insights

The recent elections brought significant changes for our hometown, Seattle, and King County, WA. Girmay Zahilay was elected King County Executive, the first new executive in 15 years. Katie Wilson, newer to the political scene, was elected Mayor of Seattle, becoming only the third woman to hold the position.

With these transitions, our team has found an opportunity to do what we do best: help governments function effectively by running processes that center diverse voices and focus on impact.

Uncommon Bridges Partner, Ishmael Nuñez, is leading the facilitation of four transition committees for King County Executive Elect Girmay Zahilay, a process involving 100 leaders from across the county, including government, business, union, and nonprofit leaders.

Partner, Andrés Mantilla, has been named Director for the Katie Wilson Mayoral transition. His leadership is informed by his role in two previous mayoral transitions and his former position as Director of the Department of Neighborhoods for the City of Seattle. He brings with him a broad network from across the city ecosystem, as well as support from our team of strategists and project managers.

The Mayoral transition marks a unique moment for Seattle. The election was decided by a margin of ~2,000 votes, and like much of the country, the city is on edge. There are many forces at work beyond our control. Affordability is more top of mind than ever. Everyone agrees that homelessness is an emergency and that housing needs to be built, but it's so tough to move the needle.

Our firm believes that public institutions can solve problems by listening, staying solutions-focused, and building coalitions to drive change. Our region is home to incredible resources and innovation. We can make it a place that we want to live, work, and play for ours and future generations. We are thrilled to be a part of this moment.

‍