Meet Jim
Mayor Jim Ferrell
“Everyone’s Mayor”
Mayor Jim Ferrell is a proven leader dedicated to the safety, prosperity, and future of Federal Way. As a three-term Mayor with a distinguished career as a King County Senior Deputy Prosecutor, Jim has spent his life fighting for justice, protecting families, and building a stronger community.
Growing up with a single mom who worked two jobs to provide for their family, Jim learned the value of hard work, resilience, and community support. These early lessons shaped his commitment to ensuring that every Federal Way resident has access to opportunity, safety, and a thriving city they can be proud of.
As Mayor, Jim has championed public safety, economic development, and revitalization efforts that have transformed Federal Way. Under his leadership, the city has invested in critical public safety initiatives, expanded resources for law enforcement, and prioritized crime reduction strategies to protect families and residents. Jim has been a staunch advocate for economic growth, working tirelessly to bring jobs to Federal Way and supporting the local businesses that add to the vibrancy and special character of our city
Jim’s prosecutorial career spans 19 years, including 16 years with the King County Prosecutor’s Office, where he rose to Senior Deputy Prosecutor. He began his career as a prosecutor for the City of Renton before moving to King County, where he defended victims of crime and upheld community safety. His extensive experience in law and justice has been instrumental in shaping policies that prioritize the well-being of Federal Way’s residents and making our city safer.
Jim’s leadership has brought businesses like Amazon, All City Fence, Papé Kenworth Trucking, Smith Brothers Dairy, and more to Federal Way. The economic growth and revitalization of Federal Way is a testament to Jim’s vision of building a more vibrant and prosperous city.
A proud graduate of the University of Washington and Gonzaga University School of Law, Jim also has deep roots in Federal Way, where he and his wife Wendy are raising their son. Jim played football for the University of Washington under Hall of Fame Coach Don James. After overcoming a devastating knee injury, Jim’s teammates honored him the with the Guy Flaherty Award – the football program’s oldest and most prestigious recognition for inspiration and dedication. Voted on by his teammates, Jim Ferrell was the first walk-on, non-starter to ever receive the award.
As Mayor, Jim Ferrell remains focused on Federal Way’s future. He is committed to finishing the job of revitalizing downtown, fostering economic growth, and ensuring that every resident feels safe and supported.
1987 Independence Bowl. UW vs. Tulane. Huskies won 24-12!