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August 4, 2026

Should Seattle’s Police Chief Live Here Full Time? Plus, Spokane Fire Resources and a New Ballard Light Rail Timeline

City Cast Seattle

Should Seattle’s Police Chief Live Here Full Time? Plus, Spokane Fire Resources and a New Ballard Light Rail Timeline

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Today on the show, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributors Hannah Krieg and Guy Oron to discuss the fires currently burning in Spokane. With more than 700 structures burned and more than 60,000 people evacuated, these fires are the most destructive in Washington history. Jane checks in on Hannah’s family who live in the city and shares ways to support fire evacuees including: the H.O.M.E. Stars Here Fund and the Spokane Complex Wildfire Response Fund. Then we break down former Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes’ resignation, as well as his interim replacement Andre Sayles and Jane asks about residency expectations for a major city’s police chief given the often transient nature of the job. Finally, Jane, Hannah and Guy discuss the new timeline for the Ballard light rail as well as the derailment over the weekend. 


Learn more about the  sponsors of this August 4th episode:

Seattle Restored

Capitol Hill Block Party


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