Mayor Harrell issues executive order to combat Seattle food deserts

Mayor Harrell issued an executive order Monday that would provide increased access to grocery stores across Seattle in his plan to address food deserts.

The executive order will guide the City of Seattle in potentially acquiring the Fred Meyer store at 13000 Lake City Way N.E. and devising a plan for future uses on the property that benefits the community, the Mayor’s Office announced.

The Lake City Fred Meyer recently closed, resulting in a food desert in the area, as the local grocery store was one of the last full-service stores in the neighborhood.

“As mayor, I am fighting for every neighborhood in Seattle to have access to affordable food and medicine, which is essential for the health and safety of the people of our city,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell.

Various Seattle areas potentially at risk of food deserts

The Mayor’s Office claimed that potential food deserts exist across Seattle, with several neighborhoods having access to only one grocery store. These locations would result in a food desert if the sole grocery store were to close.

“This solution-focused Executive Order explores all options available to the City to ensure our children, older adults, people with mobility issues, and families have equitable access to fresh, local, affordable, and culturally relevant food and medicine,” Mayor Harrell said.

Other actions in the executive order include directing various city departments to identify at-risk locations in Seattle that have the possibility of becoming a food desert, whether it be a grocery store, pharmacy, or convenience store.

“Prioritizing food access is both timely and necessary,” said Joy Hollingsworth, Seattle City Councilmember, District 3. “I appreciate the Mayor’s thoughtful proposal, and it’s a proactive step to ensure that all Seattle neighborhoods have equitable access to fresh, healthy food and don’t become food deserts.”

The complete plan includes zoning changes, partnerships with private businesses, and a push for statewide reforms.

Mayor Harrell’s proposed 2026 budget allocated nearly $12 million in new investments toward food-related causes, including:

• $6 million to Seattle’s Fresh Bucks program
• $3 million to support local food banks
• $1 million to address retail theft, property damage, and other crimes at grocery stores
• $1 million to support year-round meal access for youth, seniors, the homeless, and others
• $700,000 to support the opening and expansion of small businesses offering food and essentials
• More than $300,000 over three years to extend the Lake City Farmers Market by 15 weeks per year and open on Saturdays

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