Rotary’s commitment to “Service Above Self” was on full display last week as members of the Seattle International District Rotary Club (SIDRC) joined Low Income Housing Institute (LIHI) and more than 100 community members, city leaders, and public safety officials at Hoa Mai Park to unveil the Little Saigon 15-Point Plan on improving public safety. Seattle Council President Sara Nelson, King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci, City Attorney Ann Davison, Seattle Fire Chief Harold Scoggins, and other representatives from Mayor Bruce Harrell’s office were all present, signaling strong cross-agency support for this community-driven effort.
Rotarians were instrumental in bringing stakeholders together, building consensus, and amplifying the voices of neighbors and business owners who are most affected by the crime and safety issues facing Little Saigon. Community outreach and input were led by Sharon Lee, SIDR member and Executive Director of LIHI, whose work ensured the plan is deeply rooted in the lived experience of Little Saigon’s residents. The resulting 15-Point Plan blends immediate actions like enhanced street and alley patrols; enforcement against drug trafficking and illegal vending; support for impacted small businesses; and tiny houses and shelters to address unsheltered homelessness. Strategies to expand affordable housing, strengthen behavioral health services, and drive economic revitalization are necessary to revitalize Little Saigon.
“Rotary is proud to stand with the Little Saigon community to create solutions that are both compassionate and effective,” said International District Rotary President David Della. “This effort reflects our mission to strengthen the Chinatown International District and improve quality of life for the residents and businesses.”
The strong turnout at the press conference, along with broad media coverage, underscored how Rotary’s convening power can bring together the community, businesses, and government partners to act quickly on urgent challenges. This initiative is an example of Rotary’s impact to help shape the future of our city.
Members of the International District Rotary Club will continue to monitor progress and advocate for the plan’s full funding which includes the request for $20 million in state support so that Little Saigon can once again thrive as a vibrant cultural and commercial destination. Together, we work to create a Little Saigon that is safe, thriving, and a culturally rich part of Seattle.
