Tensions flare at Burien City Council meeting over DESC Bloomside, tree removals and zoning plan

Tensions at the Burien City Council meeting revolved around the DESC Bloomside building, where rising crime and drug activity prompted criticism from councilmembers and residents. Councilmembers Jimmy Matta and Linda Akey highlighted the ineffective enforcement of the Good Neighbor Policy, which was supposed to ensure responsible resident behavior. Akey described Bloomside as a "federally funded crackhouse" due to the rampant drug issues and lack of support for residents seeking help. Meanwhile, City Manager Adolfo Bailon confirmed that the King County Sheriff’s Office has defunded the co-response program, which had successfully paired social workers with police for mental health crises. The FAA's plan to remove six mature trees from Mathison Park, purportedly for airport expansion, sparked community outrage, with calls for the trees to be replaced.

Bailon stated that the FAA must justify their removal under local tree codes before permits are granted. Public commenters pressed the council to revisit the zoning and comprehensive plan, arguing that current regulations do not meet community needs. The council's discussions reflect ongoing challenges in addressing public safety and urban development in Burien.