Good morning, this is Seattle Local Pulse for January 3, 2025.
We're starting with some breaking news from the past few days. A deadly shooting occurred on New Year's Eve morning in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, and Seattle police are still investigating the incident. We'll keep you updated as more information becomes available.
Moving on to the job market, experts predict a slowdown with 4% unemployment and companies expected to create half as many jobs by March 2025. However, hot industries like Information Technology, Engineering, and Finance are still vying for top talent. The labor market has cooled, but it's not translating into top talent being readily available. Employers are taking longer to make hiring decisions, and new labor laws are impacting hiring, including pay transparency laws and increased minimum wages. Seattle now has the highest state minimum wage, increased from $15.74 to $16.28.
In real estate news, home and mortgage prices in Seattle are up, but so is inventory. Would-be buyers face steep upfront costs, but the growing number of available houses might make it easier to find a home. The median home price and inventory levels are something to keep an eye on in the coming weeks.
From city hall, the Seattle City Council recently adopted the 2025-2026 Biennial Budget and Capital Improvement Program, which includes historic investments in affordable housing and increased public safety investments. The budget also restores prosecutor positions in the City Attorney's Office and adds dedicated staff to the 911 Emergency Communications Dispatcher.
Looking at the weather, we're expecting a significant change today. After a warm Thursday with temperatures reaching 70 degrees, we might see snow flurries on Sunday morning. A potent storm system is expected to hit the Seattle area on Monday, bringing windy conditions, high surf, and heavy rain. Make sure to check the latest forecast before planning your activities.
In business news, Alaska Airlines has announced a 2% reduction in flights until July due to a pilot shortage. The airline has canceled 82 flights in response to the shortage.
For upcoming community events, keep an eye out for the Space Needle's contest to paint its roof using Galaxy Gold. The City of Seattle is giving five people a chance to participate in this unique event.
In local school news, Seattle Public Schools is weighing changes to regular school hours. We'll keep you updated on any developments.
On a lighter note, the Hearst Foundations has awarded the University of Washington with a $300,000 grant, and the Emergency Food Network has also received a grant.
Moving on to today's crime report, a 33-year-old woman has been arrested for the second time within three days at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for attempting to access secure areas without proper documentation. The suspect faces charges of first-degree criminal trespassing and providing false statements to public servants.
Finally, we want to remind you to stay safe and aware of your surroundings, especially in light of recent incidents.
This has been Seattle Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
