January 6, 2025

I ❤ Federal Way

The beginning of a new year is the perfect opportunity to reflect on where we’ve come and to look forward to where we are going. Federal Way is a city on the rise, and I am excited to share the details of our bright future with everyone this year.

Join us for our Annual State of the City Address on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 6 p.m. at the Performing Arts and Event Center.

Our theme this year is “I ❤ Federal Way.” Whether it’s our majestic views, green spaces, rich culinary diversity, or the many other amazing parts of this city, Federal Way is a dynamic place to live and work. We are starting Valentine’s Day early this year as we reflect on the things we love about our city.

Our balanced budget and investment in 100-year infrastructure, like the incoming light rail station and the new Joint Maintenance and Operations Facility, ensure Federal Way has the room and opportunity to grow as a city and community. I am excited about our future and to share more about what we’re doing to make sure there is more to love about Federal Way than ever.

I hope to see many of you in attendance on Feb. 13, the day before Valentine’s Day, where we can all express our love for our home, Federal Way.

Happy New Year!

Mayor Jim Ferrell

Public Works and Local Boy Scouts Host Tree Recycling Event

Over the weekend, Federal Way Public Works and local Scouts troops 307, 330, 361, and 841G put on a Christmas tree and light recycling event at Celebration Park. There was a great turnout, with more than 80 cars recycling 55 trees, 50 light strands and five wreaths. This event helped keep countless items out of the landfill and disposed of in an environmentally-friendly manner.

Missed this event, but still have a tree to recycle? Waste Management Yard & Food Waste subscribers may dispose of Christmas trees Jan. 6-10. Unflocked, undecorated whole Christmas trees cut to less than six feet in height are acceptable. Visit the Waste Management website for guidelines and details.

South King County Fire and Rescue Featured at Marine View Men's Breakfast

Mayor Jim Ferrell attended the Marine View Men’s Breakfast on Jan. 4. South King County Fire and Rescue Captain Brad Chaney was the featured speaker. He shared stories of the heroism South King Fire provides to communities like Federal Way in the south end of King County.

He also detailed the critical support services they provide to support our community, including fire services, EMS, water rescue teams, hazmat response, essential outreach programs, and more.

South King Fire plays an important role in keeping everyone in Federal Way and surrounding communities safe!

Retiring Firefighter Surprised By Colleagues

As he was leaving City Hall for the final time as an employee of South King Fire & Rescue, Roy Smith was surprised by his fellow firefighters honoring him with drums and bagpipes. Smith worked for South King Fire for 30 years.

Featured Upcoming Event

Free Financial Literacy Classes

The City of Federal Way is partnering with community volunteers and the Dave Ramsay Financial Peace University to offer a free nine-week course teaching financial skills for Federal Way residents.

The classes will be held every Thursday from Jan. 16 through March 13 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Federal Way Community Center.

Free child care is available for class participants on a first-come, first-served basis.

FWPD K9s, Dexter and Vader, Featured in 2025 Charity Calendar

Federal Way Police Department’s (FWPD) K9 Vader and K9 Dexter are proudly featured in the 2025 K9 Calendar, created by the Valley Retired Police Dog Association (VRPDA). The calendar raises funds to support retired police dogs from valley agencies, ensuring these loyal heroes receive the care they deserve in retirement.

Calendars are available for $10 at the FWPD lobby (33325 8th Ave S. in Federal Way) during regular business hours, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Payments can be made in cash or via checks payable to VRPDA.

Get your calendar, find out which months feature Vader and Dexter, and contribute to a worthy cause that honors these incredible K9s!

Garbage/Recycling Art Contest:

Call for Artists

The City of Federal Way Environmental Services is looking for art submissions to help add color and creativity to some garbage/recycling containers around the city. For more details and application materials, visit the contest page.

Jan. 7 City Council Meeting

What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, for a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.

How to Attend: Attend in person at Federal Way City Hall, 33325 8th Ave. S. or watch live on Zoom, the city's YouTube channel, or FW Channel 21.

Upcoming Events and Opportunities

MLK Day Celebration Jan. 18

We invite you to join us as we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a day of reflection, unity, and community celebration.

The event will be held Saturday, Jan. 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Performing Arts & Event Center.

This special event will feature inspiring speakers, performances, and opportunities to connect as we continue his dream of justice and equality for all.

State of the City Scheduled for Feb. 13

SAVE THE DATE. Mayor Jim Ferrell's annual State of the City Address will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, at the Performing Arts & Event Center. The event is free and open to the public.

Hear an inspiring address from Mayor Ferrell as we celebrate our community’s accomplishments and share an exciting vision for the future.

This special evening is your chance to be part of the conversation shaping Federal Way’s journey forward. Let’s come together to honor our city and explore what’s ahead.

Bloodworks Blood Drive Jan. 30

The City of Federal Way is partnering with Bloodworks Northwest to host a blood drive at City Hall on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Did you know it takes 1,000 donors a day to maintain a safe and reliable blood supply in the Pacific Northwest? Make a one-hour appointment for the blood drive today.

Walk-ins may be available but spots are limited.

Pressure Washer Workshop Jan. 22

Learn how to safely use pressure washers for your home maintenance needs at our Pressure Washer Workshop on Wednesday, Jan. 22, from 4 to 5 p.m. at the South King Tool Library.

Participants will learn how to efficiently clean outdoor surfaces like driveways, decks, siding, and fences using a high-pressure washer.

View our Facebook event page to RSVP and for more details.

View Our Parks & Recreation Winter and Spring Program Guide

The Federal Way Parks & Recreation Department offers a wide variety of fun recreational activities for residents of all ages.

Take a moment and check out our Winter and Spring Program Guide to find an activity, new or old, that will get you up, moving, and out of the house!



PAEC Upcoming Events

The Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center (PAEC) puts on a wide variety of events year round. Upcoming events include:

• Jan. 21: Moms Unhinged Standup Comedy Show
• Jan. 25: Big Band Concert I–Score One for the Bass
• Jan. 29: Albert Cummings
• Feb. 8: Crash Test Dummies
• Feb. 16: Matt Dusk Sings Tony Bennett

Visit the PAEC event calendar page for a full list of upcoming events.

Federal Way Symphony Season

Established in 1983, the Federal Way Symphony has provided our community with high-quality, professional music for more than 40 years.

Performances are held at the Performing Arts & Event Center. The Federal Way Symphony is currently inviting those interested to buy a ticket to attend performances for their current season, titled "Cosmic Melodies."

Visit the Federal Way Symphony website to view their full calendar listing and to purchase tickets.