Discussing Mental Health with King County Executive Candidates

Please listen to the video for accuracy and completeness. The last half is most telling.  

The major theme was managing (Balducci) and coordinating (Zahilay) resources to achieve a continuum of care.  Implementation of voter-approved behavioral health resources is terribly slow (Balducci.) Zahilay listed his coalitions that will disrupt the cycle of addiction and improve behavioral health care.  Balducci insisted the revolving door should have only one entrance.  She stressed wider use of medical records towards this end.

Financial pressure:  Balducci has working experience with state officials on both sides of the aisle.  Prioritization and accountability of spending is needed for this and other levies.  Zahilay co-sponsored the new stabilization .1% sales tax -- 10 cents on a $100 purchase!)  This tax funds 1) fewer sheriff layoffs 2) gun and domestic violence advocacies, 3) courts / victim support, 4) behavioral health treatment.  Balducci said needs evolve and these funds need re-prioritization; accountability, with proactive audits and quarterly reports.     

Youth struggles:  Balducci says she has two children and witnessed first-hand the emotional and health pressures on students during the pandemic. She supports providers (LWSD  councilors, Y.E.S. EvergreenHealth councilors, NAMI.)  Zahilay organized a stakeholder youth group to focus on solutions.  

Full Disclosure:  I lean towards Balducci because I know her better. I just like her.  I've chatted with her at Redmond City Hall meetings and a Hero House gala, I see her riding a bicycle everywhere; not just for transit awareness but demonstrating that exercise is awesome for mental health. She's the county's representative for EvergreenHealth community hospital, She participates with the community in social media, including my blog.  😊

- Bob Yoder, 10/12/2025

  Sources:  Seattle Times & Seattle/King County League of Women Voters forum, 10/9/25