State of the County: Key Takeaways from OneRedmond’s March Lunch & Learn

On Thursday, March 5, OneRedmond welcomed King County Council Chair Sarah Perry to Together Center for an engaging Lunch & Learn focused on the State of the County. Business leaders, community members, and local professionals gathered for a timely conversation about the priorities, challenges, and opportunities shaping King County—and what they mean for the Eastside business community.

Chair Perry shared a high-level look at King County’s current landscape, including demographic insights and how growth across the region is influencing planning and policy decisions. She then walked attendees through five key priority areas for 2025: safe and healthy communities, road and bridge infrastructure, environmental sustainability, transit and mobility, and housing affordability.

A major theme throughout the presentation was the connection between public investment and business success. Updates on infrastructure improvements, expanded transit service, and light rail integration highlighted how the region is working to improve accessibility and mobility for both employees and customers. At the same time, discussions around public safety, emergency preparedness, and community health underscored the importance of creating stable, supportive environments where businesses can thrive.

Chair Perry also shared forward-looking initiatives, including new disaster relief resources available to businesses impacted by recent flooding, upcoming climate resilience grant opportunities for nonprofits, and continued efforts to address housing supply and affordability across the county. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to balancing growth with sustainability and long-term community well-being.

Attendees left with a clearer understanding of how county-level decisions are made, how policies take shape, and how local businesses can stay informed and engaged. The session concluded with a thoughtful Q&A, giving participants the opportunity to ask questions and connect the discussion directly to their own business experiences.

We’re grateful to Chair Perry for sharing her time and insights, and to everyone who joined us for this important conversation.

View the presentation slides here.