Summary

Juarez brings nearly three decades of experience working on capital projects with regional impacts to the Sound Transit Board.

Story

The King County Council has confirmed Seattle City Councilmember Debora Juarez to the Sound Transit Board of Directors. Her appointment was made official yesterday when the county council unanimously approved the appointment.

Juarez brings nearly three decades of experience working on capital projects with regional impacts to the Sound Transit Board. Recently, CM Juarez has focused on work preparing for Sound Transit’s Northgate Link light rail station, where construction is on schedule for completion in 2021. 

“Northgate has seen a flurry of economic development activity in anticipation of the new light rail station. It’s an opportunity for a complete reimagining of the neighborhood,” said Juarez. “I envision a future where the light rail station anchors a neighborhood dense with affordable housing, transit-oriented childcare, employment opportunities, entertainment, and shopping options.” 

Juarez replaces former Seattle City Councilmember Rob Johnson, who relinquished his Sound Transit position when he resigned from the Seattle City Council in April.

“Councilmember Juarez steps in to our work at Sound Transit at a critical juncture for the future of transit in our region,” said County Councilmember Joe McDermott, who sponsored the motion to confirm Juarez. “Her experience with complex capital projects as well as bringing often overlooked community voices into the public process will serve Sound Transit and our residents very well. I’m excited to work with her in the coming year.”

“As a Seattle City Councilmember on King County’s Regional Policy Committee, Councilmember Juarez is committed to working with local governments at all levels,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer.  “I know she will bring that same commitment to the Sound Transit Board.”

“I was pleased to enthusiastically vote in favor of Deborah Juarez’s confirmation to the Sound Transit Board of Directors,” said Councilmember Jeanne Kohl-Welles. “Her experience on the Seattle City Council and as a successful attorney makes her a dynamic addition to the board. I look forward to working with her in her new role as we continue to expand and enhance transit throughout the region.”

“Councilmember Juarez brings great vision and leadership to the Sound Transit Board,” said Council Vice Chair Claudia Balducci. “I’m excited to work with her moving forward as we expand light rail through north Seattle and across the entire region.”

 Juarez’s first meeting as a member of the Sound Transit board will occur on May 23, 2019.