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Nov. 9, 2026

Boys & Girls Club Members Work Together to Paint the Plows

Be on the look out this winter for decorated snow plows.


Every year, our Public Works Department partners with the Federal Way Boys and Girls Club for the annual Paint the Plow project. This tradition invites kids from around the City to design artwork for the front of City plows before winter weather comes to Federal Way.


This year's theme was "Do Not Litter." Mayor Jim Ferrell and City Councilmembers met with the kids that participated last week to appreciate the new artwork and give certificates to them to celebrate their efforts.

Community Members Bring Items for Fixing to Repair Café

We hosted our Repair Café at the South King Tool Library on Saturday. Our volunteer repair experts were on-hand to fix damaged furniture and other small household items, sharpen knives, and repair torn clothing for Federal Way residents at no cost.


In total, 82 residents brought 159 items to the event to be repaired or sharpened.


If you were unable to make it to the Repair Café but still have items that need fixing, King County provides a repair business directory of local businesses in 18 different categories that offer repair services for a fee.

Mayor Ferrell Attends Chamber Luncheon

On Wednesday, Nov. 4, Mayor Jim Ferrell attended the Greater Federal Way Chamber of Commerce luncheon. South King Fire Chief Ryan Woodey took the podium at the the Performing Arts and Event Center.

"South King Fire is an outstanding partner," Mayor Ferrell said. "I appreciate the work they do to serve our community."

Mayor Ferrell and Council Members Attend 25th Annual Souper Supper

Mayor Jim Ferrell and City Councilmembers attended the Federal Way Community Caregiving Network's (FWCCN) 25th Annual Souper Supper last week. Council President Susan Honda and Councilmembers Martin Moore, Lydia Assefa-Dawson, Melissa Hamilton, and Linda Kochmar were in attendance.


For 25 years, the FWCCN has made a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families throughout our community. The organization provides vital support to local families experiencing hunger and housing insecurity, helping connect those in need with essential resources and assistance.


Thank you to Linda Murphy (pictured with Mayor Ferrell on the left) for your efforts in keeping this incredible event going year after year!

Featured Upcoming Events

Veterans Day Celebration on Nov. 11

at the PAEC

Join us for our Veterans Day Celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at the Performing Arts & Event Center.


The program runs from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Doors open at 10:30 a.m.


This year, we will be having the event on 11/11/11, meaning the eleventh day of the eleventh month at the eleventh hour.


We will honor Federal Way area veterans with remarks and performances in collaboration with local organizations.

 

Drive Safe in Winter Weather

With shorter days, darker evenings and the rainy season here, it's important to take a few extra precautions when driving. Wet roads and reduced visibility can make it harder to see and stop, even for the most experienced drivers.


With the time change, many people are also driving home in the dark. Remember to pay attention to posted speed limits, especially in school zones where limits change depending on the time of day.


Here are a few reminders to help keep you and others safe on the road:


  • Check your Vehicle: Make sure your lights and windshield wipers are working and your tires have adequate tread.
  • Slow Down: Wet roads can make it harder to stop. Adjust your speed and leave extra space between vehicles.
  • Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Be aware of your surroundings, especially near crosswalks, schools, and residential areas.
  • Use your Headlights: Turn them on in rainy, foggy, and low-light conditions so you can see and be seen.
  • Avoid Distractions: Keep your attention on the road and put your phone away.
  • Watch for Icy Roads: Bridges and overpasses can freeze before other road surfaces. Use extra caution when temperatures drop.

Community Development Accepting 
Funding Applications

The City of Federal Way has a funding opportunity for nonprofit and public agencies that benefit low- and moderate-income residents in Federal Way.


The Federal Way Community Development Department invites these organizations to submit project proposals for Community Economic Revitalization Funding (CERF). CERF uses a portion of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds.


Applications are open now.

Expanded Automated Speed Enforcement Operations Begin Dec. 2

Beginning Dec. 2, speed safety cameras will be in effect outside school zone hours. The speed cameras will operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


After the current 30-day warning period, effective Dec. 2, drivers who exceed the posted speed limit of 35 mph will receive an infraction notice by mail.


The speed limit depends on the time of day:


  • During School Zone Hours: Drivers who go over 20 mph can get a ticket.
  • Outside School Zone Hours: Drivers who go over 35 mph can get a ticket.


Drivers who go over the 20 mph speed limit during school zone hours will still get tickets during the warning period. 

Teens, Become a Federal Way Explorer!

The Federal Way Police Department (FWPD) is looking for young leaders interested in a future career in law enforcement.


High school students between the ages of 14-20 are invited to join Federal Way Explorers. Students in the program will learn more about what a career in law enforcement is about.


Learn more at the FWPD's information night:


  • 6 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 12.
  • Federal Way City Hall, 33325 8th Ave S.

EV Charger Installation Project at Community Center Nov. 9-27

The Federal Way Community Center is preparing for an upcoming electric vehicle (EV) charger installation project. Construction is scheduled for Nov. 9-27 and will temporarily impact parking and access near the gym side of the building.


This project will add five standard EV charging spaces and one ADA EV charging space to the FWCC west side parking lot.


Project Details

  • Project: Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Installation
  • Location: Federal Way Community Center Gymnasium Side
  • Construction Dates: Nov. 9-27
  • Affected Area: Side parking lot near the gym


The side parking lot near the gym will be unavailable for parking throughout the construction period.

Nov. 4 City Council Meeting

Other Recent Meetings:


What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2026, for a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.


How to Attend: Attend in person at Federal Way City Hall, 33325 8th Ave. S. or watch live on Zoom, the City's YouTube channel, or FW Channel 21.

Upcoming Events and Opportunities

Tree Lighting at Town Square Park on Dec. 5

Join us for a FREE holiday celebration at Town Square Park at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5.


Everyone is welcome to enjoy Santa’s big arrival, live music, free cocoa and cookies, and the tree lighting with Mayor Jim Ferrell.


Don’t miss out on this fun evening!


Event Details

Location: Town Square Park

Date: Saturday, Dec. 5

Time: 4 p.m.

Jingle Bell Brunch at FWCC on Dec. 5

Santa’s stopping by for breakfast at the Federal Way Community Center.


Join us for Jingle Bell Brunch on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 10 a.m. for a morning of holiday fun, crafts, music, and breakfast with Santa.


All ages are welcome, but most activities and crafts are designed for ages 2-10.


Event Details:

Location: Federal Way Community Center

Time & Date: Saturday, Dec. 5, at 10 a.m.

Admission: $17 Per Person

Cookies with Mrs. Claus at FWCC on Dec. 18

Join us at the Federal Way Community Center on Thursday, Dec. 17, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for a magical evening with Mrs. Claus. This event is perfect for children ages 2-10 and includes cookie decorating, photo opportunities, cocoa, and music!


Admission is just $5 per person.


PLEASE NOTE: This is one of our most popular events and always sells out fast! Pre-registration is strongly recommended, as day-of tickets may not be available!

Cops vs. Ballers at Todd Beamer High School on Nov. 13

Join the Federal Way Police Department on Friday, Nov. 13, at Todd Beamer High School for a fun, family-friendly night of basketball.


Cops vs. Ballers is a basketball game between FWPD officers and Todd Beamer students, bringing our community together while raising money for the school.


The game tips off at 6 p.m. and doors open at 5:30 p.m. Suggested admission is $5 per person or $20 per family. All proceeds go to Todd Beamer High School.


Wear your school colors, cheer loud, and come out to support our students and community!

Family friendly. Cheer loud. Community strong.

Join Us: Federal Way Employees' Second Annual Holiday Food Drive

No neighbor should have to choose between food and other basic needs. For households stretching limited incomes across groceries, housing, utilities, and medicine, food assistance can provide essential breathing room.

 

City of Federal Way employees are coming together to help, and we invite you to join us. City employees serve this community and this is another way to put that commitment into action.

 

Until Nov. 24, we are hosting our second annual Holiday Food Drive in support of the Federal Way Senior Center, the Multi-Service Center, and the Pacific Islander Community Association, three organizations that provide essential food and support to residents across the city.

 

Where to Donate: Donation bins will be available during business hours at City Hall in main floor lobby.

 

Suggested Food Donations: Shelf-stable, nutritious, and culturally inclusive foods are especially appreciated.

 

Visit our Food Drive webpage to learn more about how and what to donate.

City Accepting Applications for

Arts Commission

The City of Federal Way is accepting applications for those interested in serving on the Federal Way Arts Commission.


The Arts Commission serves to bring more free or low cost arts opportunities to the community through musical performances, theater, and visual arts festivals.


Interviews for open positions will be conducted before the end of the year, but applications are being accepted now.


Email CityClerk@federalwaywa.gov or call 253-835-2540 if you have questions. More information available online.

Join the PAEC for the 
Jeanne Burbidge Holiday Festival

Join the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center (PAEC) for the Jeanne Burbidge Holiday Festival from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 28.


The Holiday Festival will bring the community together for a joyful seasonal celebration featuring a holiday market with local craft vendors, a special visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and festive activities for children including face painting and seasonal arts and crafts stations.


Visit the link below to RSVP.

PAEC Upcoming Events

The Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center (PAEC) puts on a wide variety of events year-round. Upcoming events include:


  • Nov. 12: Swan Lake by World Ballet Company
  • Nov. 16: Take it to the Limit: The Music & Legacy of the Eagles
  • Nov. 21: Sisters Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold 2026
  • Nov. 22: Oleksandr Ponomariov - Revived Soldiers Ukraine Charity Concert
  • Nov. 28: Jeanne Burbidge Holiday Festival 2026


Visit the PAEC event calendar page for a full list of upcoming events.

Celebrate a Very Vintage Christmas with the Federal Way Symphony on Dec. 5

Celebrate the holidays with the Federal Way Symphony on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 2:30 p.m. at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center.


Under the direction of Adam Stern, A Very Vintage Christmas features beloved favorites like “White Christmas” and Mel Tormé’s “The Christmas Song.”


The annual City of Federal Way Tree Lighting celebration immediately follows the concert!

Listening Lounge Launch Party with Lisa Prank and DJ Ryan Fresh at the Library

Come celebrate the new Vinyl Collection at the Federal Way Library! The new Listening Lounge invites you to slow down, drop the needle, and discover the joy of listening together.


Join anytime for a whole afternoon of music and activities, including hip-hop sounds with DJ Ryan Fresh and a live performance from Seattle singer/songwriter Lisa Prank! Other activities include a record swap, zine-making, button-making, and more!


  • 12-4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14
  • Federal Way King County Library, 34200 1st Way S.

Federal Way Library Hosts Mikki Kendall

on Nov. 19

The Federal Way Library is hosting an after-hours event with best-selling author Mikki Kendall on Thursday, Nov. 19, from 6:30-8 p.m.


Kendall is a writer, diversity consultant, and occasional feminist who talks about intersectionality, policing, gender, sexual assault, and other current events.


Her essays can be found in major publications across the globe. She is the author of Hood Feminism, a New York Times Best Seller.


Doors open at 6:15 p.m. The Federal Way Library is located at 34200 1st Way South in Federal Way.