Former Mayor Matta Defends His Burien DESC Decision

"Behavior that poses threats, unpredictability, or violates the law cannot be tolerated." - CM Matta

by Burien-News. During the March 4, 2024 Burien City Council meeting, Councilmember Jimmy Matta addressed issues regarding the new Burien DESC facility, which is set to open in May 2024. We reached out to the council member for further comment. We thank CM Matta for his response, which has been included in its entirety.Below, each Burien-News question is in bold, followed by CM Matta's answer in italics.[Burien-News:] Council Member Matta,In the last council meeting [March 4] you reminded us all that you were Mayor when DESC was voted in. You said you supported it because you believed DESC would uphold a Good Neighbor Agreement (GNA).

[CM Matta:] Mr. Barrett,

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Burien City Councilmember Jimmy Matta[/caption]

I hope this letter finds you well. As a Burien City Council member, I feel compelled to address the concerns and inquiries surrounding my decision to support housing for Burien DESC. Your engagement reflects the vibrant democracy we strive to uphold in our community, and I value the opportunity to clarify the rationale behind my actions.

[Burien-News:] What had you seen in DESC’s past performance and track record that gave you this confidence?

[CM Matta:] My decision to support housing for Burien DESC was not made lightly but rather informed by careful consideration of several key factors. Foremost among these considerations was DESC's longstanding reputation for effectively providing support and services to individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges.

Their track record in managing similar facilities, coupled with their commitment to evidence-based practices, weighed heavily in my decision-making process.

In assessing DESC's past projects, we acknowledged the challenges while also recognizing the urgent need to address homelessness and its related issues in our community. The presence of individuals grappling with mental health and drug addiction on our streets not only impacts the quality of life for residents but also affects our small businesses.

Despite our limitations in terms of resources, both financial and organizational, we cannot turn a blind eye to these complex issues.

While it is true that mental health and drug addiction fall primarily under the purview of the county, state, and federal governments, the reality is that these issues directly impact our community. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to take proactive steps to address them, even if it means collaborating with organizations like DESC.

I welcome constructive dialogue and alternative ideas from community members regarding how best to address homelessness and related challenges in Burien. It is imperative that we work together to find solutions that benefit our entire community while respecting the limitations and responsibilities of local government.

[Burien-News:] The DESC Morrison [Seattle] was a well known drug den and source of criminal behavior when you led the approval of Burien DESC. Were you aware of this? If so why did you approve an even larger facility in Burien? If not did you fail to do due diligence?

[CM Matta:] Regarding the history surrounding DESC Morrison, I was indeed aware of it before approving Burien DESC. However, it is crucial to understand that the decision to endorse a new facility in Burien was informed by a comprehensive assessment of community needs, available resources, and best practices in tackling homelessness and related challenges.

Each project undergoes meticulous evaluation and consideration of potential impacts.

In my capacity, I personally visited the Rainier Avenue DESC facility during various times, engaging with businesses in the vicinity and observing nothing that would compromise the well-being of our community in Burien.

It is important to note that this location differs significantly from the Morrison DESC building in Seattle. At no point did I neglect my due diligence. I hold deep respect and love for my community and understand the profound impact that individuals grappling with mental health and substance abuse have on our neighbors.

As a person of faith, I firmly believe in the inherent worth of every human being and the imperative to extend love and support to our fellow community members.

While I advocate for compassion and support, I also recognize the importance of upholding community safety. Behavior that poses threats, unpredictability, or violates the law cannot be tolerated. As a representative of my community, I stand firm in my commitment to address these issues while upholding the values of compassion, safety, and accountability.

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DESC Burien (image by Katie Kresly)[/caption][Burien-News:] The GNA has no Burien input or authorship. Burien has no authority over the agreement. There is no mechanism of enforcement if/when DESC fails. Why did you agree to put the safety of the downtown core without an agreement in place when you had leverage?

[CM Matta:] Burien's absence from the Good Neighbor Agreement (GNA) is a concern, but it is important to note that creating such agreements involves various stakeholders. While Burien may lack direct authority, efforts were made to ensure transparency.

The decision to proceed without a formal agreement aimed to urgently address homelessness downtown. Ongoing dialogue and collaboration will be crucial. A comprehensive GNA typically includes purpose, involved parties, community input, operating standards, mitigation measures, communication protocols, dispute resolution, enforcement, review, and implementation.

Despite challenges in involving all stakeholders, we followed county rules to address mental health and drug addiction issues.

As a council member, I take immense pride in my community. This is where my daughter was born, where I raised my children, and where they graduated high school. I am fiercely independent and strive tirelessly to introduce or support legislation that benefits our community as a whole.

While I acknowledge that the DESC may encounter challenges as it begins its role in our community, I firmly believe that maintaining an open dialogue and considering alternative perspectives is crucial.

[Burien-News:] What role did Dow Constantine and his patronage of you have in the approval?

[CM Matta:] Dow Constantine's involvement in the approval process was within the broader governmental structure. As an elected official, his responsibilities encompass various aspects of regional governance and policymaking.

While elected officials may advocate for specific initiatives, decisions regarding project approval are grounded in thorough evaluation, adherence to legal frameworks, and community input.

Any perceived influence should be understood within the context of established procedures and accountability mechanisms within the governmental framework.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I remain committed to serving the best interests of our community.

Sincerely,

Jimmy Matta

Council Member

City of Burien

(206) 248-5508 office

jimmym@burienwa.govBurienwa.gov