Seattle Finances, Shootings, and Orcas: The Friday Local Pulse

Good morning, this is Seattle Local Pulse for Friday, June 27, 2025. We wake to a classic Seattle morning, with mild temps expected around the low seventies and just a hint of the famous June clouds. The forecast calls for nine hours of sunshine and only a small chance of rain, so outdoor plans like a stroll at Green Lake or a rooftop lunch downtown look good today. Our top story involves city finances. Mayor Bruce Harrell and Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck are unveiling the Seattle Shield proposal today. This aims to lower business taxes for about ninety percent of local companies while increasing revenue from larger ones, bringing in nearly ninety million dollars a year. With Seattle facing a two hundred fifty-one million dollar deficit and the real possibility of federal funding cuts, this plan would help keep vital services running, from affordable housing support to food and shelter programs. In breaking news overnight, Washington State Patrol reports a fatal drive-by shooting along SR-167 near Auburn. Troopers are continuing their investigation and have not yet named suspects. In the city, a Seattle woman was arrested for DUI after police recovered drugs and a stolen gun, while in Lake City Park, a man well-known for his street performances was attacked with a machete. Both cases are under investigation, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward. After a series of thefts in Ballard, officers made two arrests late last night near Market Street. Turning to something brighter, orcas have been seen playing near the shore in Commencement Bay, creating a treat for early morning walkers and boaters. Meanwhile, King County rescue teams are urging hikers to take extra care after multiple calls for help on Mailbox Peak; remember your water and tell someone your route before heading out. Seattle’s real estate market shows signs of stabilizing after a spring surge, with average home prices hovering around eight hundred seventy thousand. The job market remains strong, especially in tech and healthcare, with several large firms—particularly along the South Lake Union corridor—posting new openings this week. In sports, the Mariners are looking to bounce back after a tough loss to the Twins at T-Mobile Park last night. The West Seattle Rhodies FC have a home match tonight at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex, and it’s Fan Appreciation Night—kids ten and under get in free. For music lovers, there’s a special listening party for Lorde’s new album at Easy Street Records tonight, and live music continues at The Locol in West Seattle. Community yoga, music bingo, and the usual Friday art walks are also on, so there’s plenty to enjoy. On a high note, local high schoolers from Garfield took home three medals at the state track finals, capping a season of tremendous effort. That’s it for today. This has been Seattle Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.