January 13, 2025

Officers Take Oath of Office at Jan. 7 City Council Meeting

At the Federal Way City Council meeting on Jan. 7, four police officers took the oath of office administered by Mayor Jim Ferrell. Additionally, two officers received promotions.

The new officers, Christian Buitron, Bailey Lopp, Andrew Dye, and Brian Kerrigan, are entry-level police officers who recently graduated from the Police Academy and are currently in the Federal Way Police Department's (FWPD) Field Training Program.

Corporal Ricardo Cuellar was promoted to the rank of police lieutenant. Originally from California, Cuellar has worked for FWPD since 2017. Officer Daniel Graf was promoted to rank of police corporal. Graf has been a police officer for 19 years and has served FWPD for the last 14.

"These officers are quality individuals and people of integrity, and we are fortunate to have them as part of our team and serving our community," said FWPD Chief Andy Hwang.

Residents Participate in Free Financial Literacy Class

The City of Federal Way partners 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 most recent group (pictured above) completed the course in November.

The next offering of the course 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.

The course is free, and complimentary child care will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Topics include wisdom and common sense to help sharpen skills in budgeting, paying off debt, as well as increasing savings for emergencies, home ownership, and education expenses.

Each family attending receives a workbook that includes software that will assist in continuing their financial planning after course completion. Register now to make sure your spot is secure.

Mayor Ferrell Speaks at Kiwanis Luncheon

Mayor Jim Ferrell was invited to speak at the Kiwanis Luncheon today. He previewed upcoming events and touched on critical actions the City of Federal Way is taking to put the city in position for growth and prosperity.

With the Light Rail set to arrive in 2026, Federal Way is on the brink of a transformative period. This major development will not only enhance connectivity but also drive unprecedented opportunities for residents and businesses alike.



Thank you to the Kiwanis Club of Federal Way for inviting the Mayor to speak with and take questions from your members.

Mayor and Council Present Proclamations at Jan. 7 City Council Meeting

At the Jan. 7 Federal Way City Council Meeting, Mayor Jim Ferrell and the Council presented two proclamations recognizing the King County RE+ Program (pictured left) and January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month (pictured right).

The King County RE+ Program was created to reduce production of waste and encourage reuse and recycling, to achieve the vision of healthy, safe, and thriving communities. The proclamation was accepted by Ali Blum, Government Relations Administrator for King County Solid Waste Division.

Each January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. There are estimated to be more than 27.6 million people subjected to human trafficking around the world. Kirsten Foot, CEO and Executive Director of Businesses Ending Slavery & Trafficking, and Sarabeth Rees, Executive Director of Stolen Youth, accepted the proclamation on behalf of their organizations and all other organizations working to fight against human trafficking.

Featured Upcoming Event

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.

Emergency Assistance Available for Eligible Individuals Affected by Nov. 19 Windstorm

Washington State is offering financial assistance to eligible individuals and families severely impacted by the Nov. 19 bomb cyclone and windstorm. If your primary home had major damage or was destroyed, and your household earns below 80% of the median income for the area you may qualify for financial assistance.

The program can provide reimbursement for extended sheltering, home repairs, and certain other unmet needs caused by the disaster.

Major damage means there is a partial or complete failure of the roof, the walls, framing, and/or the foundation. It also could mean that the residence is in imminent danger of impending landslides, mudslides, or sinkholes.

More details on the program can be found on the WA Emergency Management Division website or at the King County Office of Emergency Management website.

2025 Recycling Events Survey

As we plan our recycling events for 2025, we are seeking input from the community about what items you would like to be able to drop off and get recycled. Please fill out this survey and be part of the conversation!

Watch the Jan. 7 City Council Meeting

What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, Jan. 21, 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

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.

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.

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!



Cirque Kalabanté at the PAEC on Feb. 28

Afrique en Cirque is a show by Yamoussa Bangoura, inspired by daily life in Guinea. This performance shares the beauty, youth, and artistry of African culture.

A colorful show beyond its scenery, costumes, and staging, it makes any theatre vibrate with energy and represents the strength, agility, and life’s joys of young Africans. 

See Cirque Kalabanté at the Performing Arts and Event Center on Feb. 28 at 8 p.m.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. at the PAEC on March 5

R.E.S.P.E.C.T is an electrifying tribute celebrating the music of the legendary Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin.

This concert experience takes audiences on a journey of love, tragedy, courage, and triumph. Starring a live band and supreme vocalists, come experience a night of music by one of the greatest artists of all time.

See R.E.S.P.E.C.T. at the Performing Arts and Event Center on March 5 at 7 p.m.

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.

Miss Holmes at Centerstage Theatre

Centerstage Theatre is putting on "Miss Holmes" Jan. 31 through Feb. 23 at the Knutzen Family Theater located at 3200 SW Dash Point Rd.

This twisty, intriguing mystery takes the most iconic detective pairing in literary history and delivers everything you want in a mystery while turning one thing on its head: What if Sherlock and Dr. Watson were women?

General Admission Tickets are $39 in advance (online or over the phone) and $41 at the door. Student, Military, and Senior Ticket discounts are available. More details available online or by phone at 253-661-1444.