As another year draws to a close, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a Port of Seattle Commissioner in Position Four. 2024 presented unique challenges, such as unprecedented travel demand and a cyberattack, but it also provided opportunities to innovate, form new partnerships, and strengthen our relationships with communities. It is both an honor and a joy to serve the people of King County and advocate for policies that ensure good jobs, sustainability, and a thriving Port economy. As the year ends, I would like to highlight the following key policy accomplishments this year.
- $14 million for community grants
Over the past three years, I have worked closely with External Relations and the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion to expand the South King County Community Impact Fund. In October, my colleagues voted to pass a $14 million grant program that supports economic development and sustainability initiatives in communities facing economic and environmental inequities. - Protecting North SeaTac Park
We began the process of permanently protecting North SeaTac Park by sending a certification to the Federal Aviation Administration to ensure the park remains preserved for non-airport purposes. A firm deadline has been set to determine the property's future, and we will continue to work with our partners at the City of SeaTac through the Joint Advisory Committee (JAC). A special thanks to Commissioners Hamdi Mohamed and Fred Felleman for their leadership on this effort. - Childcare initiatives
A priority of mine made significant strides this year! We completed a needs assessment identifying the demand for childcare resources and developed five strategies to address the urgent need. We dedicated $550,000 in the 2025 operating budget to launch a navigator program for Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) employees and continue exploring a brick-and-mortar, airport-adjacent childcare center. - Enhanced health care benefits for SEA workers
Two weeks ago, we passed an order to direct staff to explore how enhanced health care benefits for SEA workers impact safety, retention, and other business outcomes. This initiative grew from listening sessions with SEIU 6, UFCW, and WMBE workers, highlighting the Port's role in supporting workers with essential health care. - ORCA Pass pilot program and SEA Moves
Last month, the Port Commission approved a plan to meet the commuting needs of over 20,000 SEA workers. This includes studying five new Port Transportation Management Association programs, such as offering free ORCA passes to all SEA employees. Considering the unique scheduling needs of employees working outside of traditional hours is essential. - Free hygiene products for the traveling public (and everyone else visiting Port properties)
This is one of those things that should just happen everywhere — so why not start at SEA? The cost was nominal and it was paid for by airport revenues — not public tax dollars — and did not impact our operating budget whatsoever. It's a small but significant step in ensuring everyone can access basic hygiene essentials. - Cleaning up Cruise
We took significant action to decarbonize the cruise industry, setting ambitious goals for shore power and other clean technologies. We also expanded protections for Puget Sound, including stricter rules for wash water and waste discharge, and committed to piloting the use of biofuel in cruise ship operations. - Building within the airport’s existing footprint
Last month, we approved a $5.6 billion Capital Improvement Plan for 2025–2029, which will fund updates to infrastructure, community development, and the advancement of Sustainable Aviation Fuels. - Anti-human trafficking initiatives
We updated our Third-Party Code of Conduct to ensure that contractors, consultants, and suppliers uphold the highest human health, safety, environmental responsibility, and social equity standards. These updates reflect our R.A.I.S.E. values and reinforce our commitment to ethical business practices. - Land Stewardship Plan
This year, we launched a groundbreaking Land Stewardship Plan that outlines principles for caring for the lands in our charge. We kicked off the effort at the Des Moines Creek Restoration Site near the airport, and just weeks ago, I had the pleasure of returning to plant 250 saplings of native trees and shrubs, which will benefit the community for years to come.
It has indeed been a year of growth and progress, and I look forward to continuing to serve our community in the year ahead. Thank you for your support and commitment to making the Port of Seattle a place where everyone thrives.
All my best,
Toshiko Hasegawa
Port of Seattle Commissioner, Position 4
Photo above: My daughter, Keiko, and I joined 20 community partner organizations to help plant 250 saplings of native trees and shrubs at the Des Moines Creek Community Stewardship site
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