On June 10, WR, in partnership with Schwabe and the Washington Business Properties Association (WBPA), co-hosted a dynamic meet-and-greet event at the U.S. Bank City Center in downtown Seattle. The event featured Seattle City Council President Sara Nelson and City Attorney Ann Davison and was designed to give business owners and leaders in and around Seattle a deeper look into the city’s efforts to improve public safety, economic vitality, and overall livability.
Moderated by TVW anchor Mike McClanahan, the evening featured an engaging discussion that explored the challenges and opportunities facing Seattle’s business climate. Speakers shared updates on current city-led initiatives to reduce crime, revitalize downtown, and foster a more welcoming environment for businesses and workers.
City Attorney Ann Davison spoke to the importance of a thriving city, stating, “An economically vibrant, healthy city is what we’re all working toward.” She also praised Council President Nelson’s leadership and tireless commitment to actionable progress: “Sara is the hardest working, always thinking about what to do now, what to do later, but how to do it all.”
Council President Nelson echoed the urgency and importance of business engagement: “I know that brick-and-mortar matters, and retail will have a seat at my table,” she said. “It’s time for City Hall to stop letting downtown fend for itself. It’s time to give retail a real seat at the table.”
The event’s goals were threefold: to highlight the successes of city leaders and their shared vision for Seattle’s future, to engage business owners and leaders in meaningful dialogue about the city’s economic and public safety strategies, and to foster greater collaboration with the business community on top issues impacting Seattle.
Following the panel, attendees had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with the speakers during a networking reception with light refreshments. The evening underscored WR’s continued commitment to convening conversations that connect members with key policymakers and contribute to a more vibrant and resilient retail landscape across Washington.
