06/09/2026 Parks/Recreation/Human Services & Public Safety Committee

The City of Federal Way Parks, Recreation, Human Services & Public Safety Committee met on June 9, 2026, to discuss several community and public safety issues. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposed massage business ordinance aimed at combating illicit massage businesses linked to human trafficking and organized crime. The ordinance includes provisions such as prohibiting locked doors, cash-only transactions, and internal warning systems to aid law enforcement investigations. The committee heard public comments from massage therapists and community members expressing concerns about the ordinance's impact on legitimate businesses. The police department emphasized the need for stronger enforcement tools to address the growing problem of illicit massage operations and related crimes, including robberies and human trafficking. The committee voted to forward the ordinance to a public hearing and first reading on June 16, 2026. Additionally, the committee approved the 2027 work plan and budget for the South King County Housing and Homeless Partners (SKIP), which includes a $525,008 budget to support affordable housing initiatives in the region, including a mental health housing project in Federal Way. The meeting also included approval of minutes and a resolution to amend the city flag policy to include the Juneteenth and Pride flags, with no financial impact to the city.