Accomplishments

Mayor Jim Ferrell believes government works best when it’s guided by the voice of the people. Always seeking to increase resident access to municipal government, the mayor has led successful efforts to improve transparency and community outreach, through programs like Neighborhood Connection meetings and the “New Day Federal Way” show on Channel 21. 

A strong believer in the importance of access to education, Mayor Ferrell has worked with the University of Washington-Tacoma and Highline College to bring a campus to Federal Way through the University Initiative – ensuring scholars have the opportunity to not only grow up in a great town, but also go to college right here in our community. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mayor Ferrell has led by following public health recommendations, helping open drive-thru testing, delivering rental assistance to those in need, and supporting small businesses and workers through CARES Act funding.

Other key accomplishments include:

  • Creating Town Square Park, a Low Impact Development, which serves as the “beating heart” of our community
  • Developing a balanced and objective financial plan to build the Performing Arts & Event Center
  • Building the Town Center Steps, connected Town Square Park, the PAEC and future development while promoting access and walkability
  • Advocating for Light Rail to travel down I-5 to Federal Way, growing economic opportunity and ensuring downtown redevelopment through Transit Oriented Development
  • Converting to LED streetlights and beginning Federal Way’s conversion to an electric vehicle fleet
  • Withdrawing from the SCORE Jail System, saving the City more than $4 million
  • Deploying increased resources to keep neighborhoods safe from graffiti and chronic distressed properties
  • Securing the donation of the historical Brooklake Community Center property to the parks department
  • Dedicating Downtown’s 60-foot flagpole and designating Veterans Way
  • Issuing a city proclamation for Black Lives Matter and raising the Juneteenth flag
  • Saving public health services for more than 13,000 low-income women and their children
  • Creating a structurally balanced 2012-2022 budget
  • Supporting small businesses during the pandemic by signing more than half a million dollars worth of CARES Act Grants
  • Convening the Mayor’s Homelessness Task Force and acting on recommendations to help create the Pete Anderson FUSION Family Center, helping serve over one hundred families in need per year
  • Ensuring greater oversight of the Federal Way Police Department, discontinuing use of chokeholds, and working toward a body camera program

 

News From the Campaign


I support a woman’s right to choose

Over the last week, I have had countless conversations about the Dobbs decision and the unprecedented reversal that took away the rights of millions of women throughout the U.S. I stand strong in my commitment to protect a woman’s right to choose and I support a constitutional amendment to enshrine that right in our state constitution. … Continued


Jim Ferrell Announces Candidacy for King County Prosecutor

Jim Ferrell announces for King County Prosecutor Protecting public safety by increasing accountability and transparency January 26, 2022                                                                            … Continued

Federal Way Mirror
Mayor proposes adding 13 officers to Federal Way police force

As Federal Way sees a recent uptick in crime, the mayor is asking the Federal Way City Council to approve adding 13 more officer positions to the city’s police force. The mayor’s recommendation was presented Sept. 21, suggesting that the Federal Way City Council approve to add 13 officers toRead More

KOMO News
Mayor wants bigger police force in Federal Way as crime mounts

“I think it's fair to say that we have had a completely unacceptable increase in violence in our community,” said Mayor Jim Ferrell, who along with Chief Andy Hwang want to add 13 more officers to the police department for a total sworn staff of 150 officers. In addition, their proposed safetyRead More

Federal Way Mirror
New memorial in Federal Way honors military veterans

A new memorial is sitting atop the Town Center Steps in Federal Way, honoring service members from all branches of the military.... “In the United States of America, we must never forget that there is much more that unites us than will ever divide us,” Ferrell said. “The men and womenRead More

Federal Way Mirror
Diversity pride flag flying at Federal Way City Hall throughout June

“They’re more than just symbols,” said Mayor Jim Ferrell, who donned a purple tie for the occasion. “Collectively, they confirm our commitment to action and to change.” In the Federal Way City Council and mayor’s proclamation declaring June 2021 as Pride Month in the city, “theRead More

Federal Way Mirror
Federal Way Mayor seeking re-election

“Over the past year, we have seen Federal Way unite in support of our small business community, stand together to demand social justice and accountability in policing, as well as to find compassionate solutions for homelessness and affordable housing,” Ferrell said. “I am humbled andRead More

Federal Way Mirror
Federal Way flags will be flown at half-staff to honor COVID victims

“Federal Way, like communities worldwide has felt the devastating impacts caused by the global pandemic,” Ferrell said in a news release. “Locally, we have lost 92 of our neighbors to this terrible virus. Please join me in honoring the lives of those who left us all too soon.”Read More

Federal Way Mirror
“Clean Up Federal Way!” volunteer event set for Oct. 17

“Keeping our city clean and litter-free for our residents and visitors alike is one of our top priorities,” said Mayor Jim Ferrell. “I’m honored to have my policy partners on the city council playing a key role in this event and sharing in our desire to maintain clean streets and parks.Read More

Federal Way Mirror
Federal Way mayor proposes 2021-22 biennial budget

“My proposed budget is one that reflects many of the priorities that I have continued to focus on throughout my six years as mayor,” Ferrell said. “This balanced budget delivers what the community expects and deserves — without raising taxes, laying off any city employees, or dipping intoRead More

Federal Way Mirror
Federal Way raises pride flag for first time in city history

Ferrell noted the flag signifies love and accepting fellow neighbors, then read aloud the June 2020 Pride Month mayoral proclamation that was given to State Sen. Claire Wilson (D-District 30). “We are proud that Federal Way fosters a welcoming environment for all residents and visitorsRead More
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