City of Burien Response to King Countys Letter Refusing to Provide Sheriffs Service

The City of Burien is set to finalize a lease agreement with Burien CARES, allowing for the establishment of a dog park on a city-owned lot that currently hosts an unsanctioned encampment. This decision follows a directive from the Burien City Council, which approved the lease terms in mid-May 2023. In a recent development, the City received a letter from King County's General Counsel that questions its authority to manage the property and implies that the city bears sole responsibility for the unhoused population. Burien officials contend that the letter misrepresents the situation and fails to recognize the city’s ongoing efforts to support those experiencing homelessness. They argue that Burien does not have policies that prohibit individuals from using public spaces, as highlighted in recent Ninth Circuit cases.

Furthermore, Burien has been actively seeking shelter and housing solutions but has encountered significant barriers due to insufficient support from King County and inadequate regional resources. The city emphasizes its commitment to addressing homelessness while facing challenges related to funding and service provision. As Burien deliberates on its response to King County's letter, the situation underscores ongoing tensions surrounding local governance and homelessness management.