In a recent Seattle City Council Public Safety Committee meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to the reintroduction of less lethal weapons for police use. The discussions highlighted significant concerns regarding police accountability and the financial implications of past police actions.

One speaker, Gabriel, pointed to a staggering $40 million spent by the city in response to police brutality claims during the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020. He argued that this amount could have funded affordable housing initiatives, emphasizing the need for a shift in priorities. Gabriel expressed that the continued investment in police funding, without accountability, has not led to a decrease in crime or improved community safety. He warned that reintroducing less lethal options would likely result in more lawsuits and injuries, urging the council to vote against these measures to protect civilians.

Jonathan Toledo, representing the Seattle Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, echoed these sentiments. He criticized the Seattle Police Department (SPD) for its past use of less lethal weapons, which resulted in serious injuries, including fractures and blindness. He raised concerns about the safety of vulnerable populations, such as children and pregnant women, who were present during police actions involving tear gas and other crowd control measures. Toledo questioned the city’s commitment to public safety and the allocation of taxpayer funds, calling for a reevaluation of the SPD's practices.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between community advocates and law enforcement strategies, with calls for greater accountability and a reevaluation of how public safety is defined and funded in Seattle. As the council considers the future of policing in the city, the voices of community members reflect a desire for change and a focus on the well-being of all residents.