Priorities
Public Safety
Keeping Federal Way safe has always been Mayor Jim Ferrell’s top priority. Under his leadership, the city has reached a record high of 154 budgeted police officers, ensuring the manpower necessary to effectively combat crime and keep our neighborhoods safe.
To help officers target and reduce crime more effectively, Mayor Ferrell launched a Special Investigative Unit, which works alongside the Special Operations Unit (SOU) to dismantle unlawful encampments and support officers in the field.
Mayor Ferrell’s focus on public safety is delivering real results: vehicle thefts have dropped by 52%, robberies have dropped by 38%, and homicides are down 57%. Overall crime has decreased by 11% year over year.
With new technology, upgraded equipment, and additional police resources, Federal Way is better equipped than ever to prevent crime before it happens. Thanks to strong financial management, these critical improvements have been made without raising taxes, ensuring public safety remains a top priority without burdening residents.
Economic Development
Growing and strengthening Federal Way’s economy is a top priority. Mayor Jim Ferrell has worked tirelessly to bring new businesses and jobs to our city, while ensuring existing businesses can continue to grow and serve the community.
Under his leadership, major employers like Pape Kenworth, Smith Brothers Dairy, All City Fence, Amazon, and Dick’s Sporting Goods are investing in our city, creating new job opportunities and strengthening the local economy. Through Business District Meetings and direct engagement with business owners, Mayor Ferrell has prioritized economic growth that benefits all Federal Way residents.
Mayor Ferrell is committed to making Federal Way a hub for economic opportunity. Whether by attracting new investments or supporting the businesses that have long been the backbone of our city, he is fostering an environment that is creating jobs, strengthening our economy, and building a foundation for sustained growth that will support Federal Way for generations.
Wise Fiscal Management
Mayor Jim Ferrell has led Federal Way with a commitment to responsible budgeting and smart financial practices, ensuring the city operates efficiently without placing additional burdens on taxpayers. Under his leadership, the city’s budget is balanced, strategic reserve funds are fully funded, and critical programs remain strong. Through careful planning and disciplined financial management, Federal Way has maintained excellent financial health while continuing to invest in essential services and infrastructure.
Through strategic investments and sound financial decisions, Federal Way has generated $8.5 million in additional revenue this biennium, without raising taxes. These funds have covered the costs of new police officers, upgraded equipment, critical city services, and infrastructure improvements. By prioritizing fiscal responsibility, Mayor Ferrell is ensuring a stable, financially secure future while keeping Federal Way an affordable place to live and do business.
Quality of Life
Mayor Jim Ferrell is committed to making Federal Way a city where families can live, work, and enjoy their community. Under his leadership, the city has invested in maintaining and enhancing public spaces, ensuring residents can continue to enjoy Federal Way’s beautiful parks, amenities, and attractions. The Performing Arts and Event Center has become a regional destination, bringing arts, culture, and economic activity to the heart of the city. Road overlays have also been a major focus, improving infrastructure and providing smoother, safer travel for residents and businesses alike.
Mayor Ferrell has also led efforts to keep Federal Way clean and well-maintained. He has strengthened the city’s anti-graffiti efforts, ensuring graffiti is removed within 24 hours of being reported. To further improve community upkeep, he launched Eyes on Federal Way, an app that allows residents to report trash, potholes, abandoned shopping carts, and other non-emergency issues directly to the city. This initiative has already helped remove over 2,000 abandoned shopping carts per year, keeping Federal Way’s streets and public spaces clean.
Looking ahead, Federal Way is transforming into a true destination city, with 20 acres of prime downtown real estate set for redevelopment. From Town Center Steps and light rail connections to new public spaces, Mayor Ferrell is focused on building a stronger, more connected Federal Way - one that people want to drive to, not through. And he’s done it all without new taxes or tax increases.