Seattle City Council members gathered on June 20, 2025, to discuss the significant impacts of tariffs on tourism and trade during a joint meeting of the Select Committee on Federal Administration & Policy Change. The session featured insights from key industry leaders, including Mark Everton, CEO of Seattle Southside, Steve Balaski from the Northwest Seaport Alliance, and Peter Bridal from the Agriculture and Transportation Coalition.

Mark Everton opened the discussion by highlighting the current state of the hospitality industry in King County. He emphasized the challenges posed by tariffs, which have affected both tourism and trade in the region. Everton's presentation aimed to shed light on how these economic factors are influencing local businesses and the overall tourism landscape.

The panelists collectively addressed the broader implications of tariffs, noting that they could lead to increased costs for travelers and businesses alike. This, in turn, may deter potential visitors and impact the region's economic growth. The discussion underscored the importance of understanding these dynamics as Seattle continues to position itself as a key destination for both tourism and trade.

In addition to the main topic, the meeting also touched on various strategies to mitigate the negative effects of tariffs. Panelists discussed potential collaborations between local businesses and government entities to enhance resilience in the face of economic challenges.

As the meeting concluded, council members expressed their commitment to supporting the tourism sector and exploring solutions to bolster trade. The insights shared during this session are expected to inform future policy decisions aimed at sustaining Seattle's economic vitality in an increasingly complex global landscape.