Today, Mayor Bruce Harrell is releasing the 2026 Proposed Budget. In this budget, Mayor Harrell is continuing the investments and bold actions he began four years ago to address the needs of our communities and advance our One Seattle priorities. Mayor Harrell’s balanced budget proposal remains focused on strengthening public safety, creating housing affordability and stability, and supporting healthy, vibrant, and thriving communities amidst headwinds coming from the federal government and economic uncertainty with a balanced budget. The proposed budget seeks to continue to deliver positive progress, in addition to optimizing use of limited dollars toward key priorities and driving efficiencies. 

With the investments in this budget proposal, we can work together to advance our shared One Seattle vision and an agenda that will inspire the best in our city and keep us moving forward.

Key Changes for SOCR

For the Seattle Office for Civil Rights, the proposed 2026 budget preserves funding for ongoing work including civil rights enforcement and testing, race and social justice work, policy research, commission activities and support, and community investments.

The proposed budget adds $50,000 to compile a Housing Reparations Report to analyze historical city polices that contributed to discriminatory housing treatment towards descendants of enslaved Black people.

To address the city’s financial deficit, the proposed budget decreases SOCR’s budget by $57,500 for operational expenses related to outreach and engagement activities, office equipment, and consultant contracts.

Next Steps and Communication About Budget

Over the next two months, the City Council will review the Mayor’s 2026 Proposed Budget. Public hearings are on October 7 and November 6. Final adoption of the budget is expected before Friday, November 21. To learn more about proposed budget, you can visit Mayor Harrell’s blog and direct questions to MOS_COMMS@seattle.gov.