Seattle Scrutinizes Homelessness Authority Post-Audit

Seattle officials are weighing what comes next for the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) after a forensic audit flagged major weaknesses in the agency’s finances and operations. The review follows findings that raised questions about how public money was tracked and managed, prompting city and county leaders to consider changes aimed at protecting taxpayer funds while maintaining homelessness services.

The audit was commissioned jointly by the City of Seattle and King County and carried out by an external firm. It examined KCRHA’s operations from the agency’s start through mid-2025, and it identified problems tied to internal controls, fiscal management, and accountability. According to the audit, KCRHA could not account for about $13 million in public funds and reported a negative cash position of $44.7 million as of July 2025.

Seattle Councilmember Maritza Rivera said the audit reinforced concerns about the agency’s performance and called for KCRHA to be dismantled. Rivera cited what she described as “egregious mismanagement of funds” and pointed to what she characterized as a longer pattern of dysfunction. Her comments added political pressure as Seattle and King County assess whether the current structure can be repaired or whether a more fundamental reset is needed.

Mayor Katie Wilson said the audit’s conclusions raised serious concerns about how city funds were handled. Wilson said all options are being considered, with the stated goal of safeguarding public dollars. The mayor’s position signals that Seattle is not limiting itself to minor adjustments as it evaluates governance and oversight for a regional body that was created to coordinate homelessness responses across jurisdictions.

King County Executive Girmay Zahilay acknowledged the audit’s findings and said the county and Seattle have issued a letter that sets out required corrective actions. Zahilay said increased oversight will be put in place as KCRHA works to address the deficiencies. Leaders said the intent is to improve transparency and stabilize operations while ensuring services continue during any transition.

The situation leaves several uncertainties, including how quickly KCRHA can meet the corrective requirements and what structural changes Seattle and King County may ultimately choose. Officials have indicated the agency could face restructuring as decisions are made on next steps, with the stated focus on accountability, operational stability, and continuity of support for people experiencing homelessness.