Councilmember Julie Hsieh's Chart Notes
OPINIONCITY GOVERNMENT
Councilmember Julie Hsieh shares her chart notes from the January 6, 2026 City Council meeting
Happy New Year!
Wishing you all a healthy, peaceful and prosperous new year. Since being sworn in on November 26, I’ve been grateful for many opportunities to connect with our Mercer Island community.
Over the past several weeks, I attended the Christmas tree lighting at Mercerdale Park, the Hanukkah menorah lighting hosted by Chabad Mercer Island, the Parks & Recreation holiday party at the community center, with a guided walk to Luther Burbank to watch the Argosy Christmas Ship. I also participated in a forest restoration at Gallagher Hill Open Space, planting native plants alongside volunteers.
I hosted my first community coffee at ASA Mercer Island, toured the Mercer Island Police Department, and joined Officer Udodik for a ride-along. I also attended the vigil at Pioneer Park honoring our neighbors Nick and his mother Danielle. The strong turnout reflected the compassion and resilience of our community. I remain deeply appreciative of our police department and City Manager Jessi Bon for their professionalism and leadership during a challenging time.
Congratulations to Mayor Rosenbaum and the Deputy Mayor Becker!
Mayor Rosenbaum once said of me, “Julie is everywhere,” and I fully intend to keep it that way. I believe it is my responsibility as a councilmember to be present, to show up, and to stay engaged with our community—because I truly love this city.
I’ve been meeting one-on-one with Islanders and am always open to connecting with community members. My next community coffee will be held on Thursday, 1/15, from 10:00–11:30 a.m. at the South End Starbucks. Commitment to public involvement is written directly into our Comprehensive Plan’s vision statement, and active participation by the island’s community members in civic events and issues is essential to representative self-government.
This is your city, and I want to hear what matters to you.
Happy new year! And if you see me around the Island, please say hello!
