Seattle and King County voters have overwhelmingly approved two property tax measures in the August primary, renewing funding for public parks and the city’s Democracy Voucher program.

King County’s Proposition 1, which passed by a wide margin, will raise roughly $200 a year from the median homeowner to maintain and improve hundreds of parks and trails. Supporters argued the measure is essential for keeping up with growth and protecting natural spaces, while opponents cited concerns about rising property taxes.

In Seattle, Proposition 1 will continue the city’s Democracy Voucher program, which provides each voter with four $25 vouchers to contribute to local candidates. The renewal adds about $12 annually for the average homeowner. Proponents say the program broadens political participation, while critics question its effectiveness and cost.

Both levies will appear on property tax bills starting next year.

New leadership could be heading to key Seattle-area offices this fall, as fresh contenders lead early primary results in three influential races.

King County Executive

Girmay Zahilay is leads fellow Councilmember Claudia Balducci by thirteen percentage points. Zahilay has emphasized progressive priorities such as expanding child care subsidies, increasing housing density, and protecting county services from cuts under the Trump administration. Balducci, meanwhile, has focused on accelerating light rail expansion and bringing an experienced, pragmatic approach to regional growth and transportation planning.

Seattle City Council, District 2

In the open race for Seattle City Council District 2, Eddie Lin leads Adonis Ducksworth by seventeen percentage points. Lin, an assistant city attorney, is campaigning on tackling affordability, reforming taxation, and improving public safety. Ducksworth, a transportation adviser in Mayor Harrell’s office, has centered his platform on supporting families, strengthening transit options, and addressing public safety through infrastructure and community investment.

Seattle School Board

In district-level primaries for the Seattle School Board, challengers are on track to move forward alongside incumbents:

• District 2: Kathleen Smith leads with about 47.91%, followed by incumbent Sarah Clark at 41.92% .
• District 4: Incumbent Joe Mizrahi holds around 70.02%, with challenger Laura Marie Rivera advancing with 17.16%  .
• District 5: Vivian Song holds a strong lead with 74.04% of the vote, while four other candidates hover between 2-4%.