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30-Year Public Servant Pledges Fairness, Safety, and New Leadership for South King County
Pahaliyah Brown, a seasoned public servant, community leader, and longtime King County resident, has officially announced his candidacy for the King County Council District 7 seat.
With over 30 years of experience in King County government, Brown is launching a grassroots campaign centered on fairness, public safety, economic opportunity, and bringing long-overdue attention to South King County.
“Our communities have waited long enough,” said Brown. “For too long, South King County has received less than its fair share of investments and attention. I know how county government works—and I know how to bring people together to make it work better for everyone.”
District 7 includes the cities of Federal Way, Kent, Auburn, Des Moines, Burien, and parts of SeaTac and unincorporated South King County. Home to a rich diversity of cultures and neighborhoods, District 7 is one of the most vibrant and fast-growing regions in the county—and
Brown believes it deserves stronger representation on the Council.
A proud son of a retired U.S. Air Force veteran and a Korean immigrant mother, Brown brings a
unique perspective rooted in both Black and Korean American heritage. His faith, service, and
deep community ties guide his approach to leadership.
Brown’s platform focuses on five key priorities:
- Transparency and Accountability – Opening up county government and ensuring residents have a voice in decisions that affect their lives.
- Safe and Clean Neighborhoods – Prioritizing public safety and maintaining clean, welcoming parks, streets, and public spaces.
- Improved Access to Parks and Open Space – Expanding green space and preserving natural areas for families and future generations.
- Economic Opportunity and Small Business Growth – Creating local jobs, supporting small businesses, and increasing workforce development efforts.
- Community-Centered Decision-Making – Hosting regular town halls, forming community advisory boards, and ensuring all voices are represented in policy decisions.
In addition to his career in King County’s Department of Natural Resources and Parks, Brown
has served on the board of the Crisis Clinic of King County and has sponsored programs like
Unleash the Brilliance, which connects at-risk youth to outdoor experiences and education. He’s
a coach, mentor, and neighborhood organizer who has spent decades working side-by-side with
residents to make positive change.
“I’m not running to be a politician—I’m running to be a voice for the people. I believe in clean neighborhoods, safe transportation, vibrant parks, and creating opportunity for all,” said Brown. “South King County can’t afford four more years of the same. It’s time for new leadership that listens, acts, and delivers results.”
Join the Movement
To learn more about Pahaliyah Brown’s campaign, sign up to volunteer, or make a contribution, visit www.VotePahaliyah.com. “Together, we can bring lasting, people-powered change to South King County.”
Info on 2025 Elections
Each of the nine members of the King County Council represents a geographical district averaging about 264,200 residents.
Pete von Reichbauer is the current incumbent for District 7, and is running for reelection.
Councilmembers are elected on a non-partisan basis and serve four-year terms.
In 2025, there will be a primary election on Aug. 5, with the top two vote-getters for each position moving on to the General Election on Nov. 5.
The deadline to file for the 2025 election was May 9, 2025.
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