Food Fight: Urban Progress and Its Discontents

In this episode, we take a closer look at Mayor Bruce Harrell's proposed ban on anti-competitive covenants in grocery and pharmacy leases—a move aimed at preventing future food deserts. Is this a genuine step toward saving grocery stores and pharmacies, or, as Erica argues, a form of political posturing in the midst of a mayoral election?

We also broaden the discussion to consider alternative solutions, with Sandeep suggesting a re-evaluation of design review processes as a more effective lever for lowering costs and sustaining local businesses. 

David highlights the critical ideological divide here between Harrell and challenger Katie Wilson, whose socialist-sounding stance on publicly backed grocery stores offers a stark contrast to Harrell's market-oriented approach on remedying food deserts. Whereas Wilson wants the government more involved in the private sector, Harrell would reserve public dollars for things like food assistance.    

We also discuss turbulence within the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, based on Erica’s reporting about accusations of mismanagement and racism against its CEO, Kelly Kennison. This segment unpacks the broader debate about the organization's efficacy and future. We come back to a question we’ve discussed before: is it time to pull the plug on the KCRHA? 

Finally, we talk about Mayor Harrell's campaign criticism of Katie Wilson's experience, with Erica challenging the tone and substance of Harrell’s attacks.

Quinn Waller is our editor. 

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