Burien City Councilmember and former Mayor Jimmy Matta announced on Monday, April 21, 2025 that he will not seek re-election to Position 3, bringing to a close nearly eight years of public service to the city.
Matta, who was first elected in 2017 and served as both a councilmember and mayor, said the decision came after “many months of reflection.”
In a message to the community, he cited a desire to focus on his family, health, and business.
“This decision was not made lightly,” Matta wrote. “At this point in my life, I feel the need to pause and devote time to myself, my family, and my business.”
Throughout his tenure, Matta said he worked to bridge divides and find common ground, noting that public service means accepting both praise and criticism.
“I trust that my commitment to finding common ground for our community speaks for itself,” he said. “Elected officials are here to serve you, not the other way around.”
Matta encouraged community members to stay engaged, support thoughtful policies, and remember the long-term impact of local leadership. He also expressed confidence in those stepping forward to run for office.
“I’m inspired by those of you stepping up to run for office,” he wrote. “Please remember that every policy you support will shape our community and future generations.”
In 2018, while serving as Mayor, Matta was assaulted at the Burien Block Party after reportedly being targeted for his ethnicity and political views, an incident that drew widespread condemnation from local and state leaders. His assailant was convicted of Assault in the Fourth Degree for his attack.
Matta’s departure sets up an open seat in the 2025 election. He leaves office at the end of his current term, which expires Dec. 31, 2025.
Below is full text of Matta’s announcement:
“Dear Burien Community Members,
“It has been an incredible honor to serve as your Mayor and Councilmember since 2017. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to listen, learn, and grow by engaging with neighbors across the political spectrum. After much thought and reflection, I’ve decided not to seek reelection for Position Number Three on the Burien City Council.
“This decision was not made lightly; it took many months of reflection. At this point in my life, I feel the need to pause and devote time to myself, my family, and my business. I believe that serving you is a significant responsibility, rooted in the understanding that local policies have a profound impact on our community. For those engaged in the political process, I commend you for your efforts, as navigating this landscape is challenging. It requires a delicate balance to ensure that policies serve us all effectively.
“To those who may feel disconnected from the political process, remember that your voice matters. Living in this community comes with the responsibility to engage and contribute positively. I won’t recount the specific changes I’ve championed as an elected official; rather, I trust that my commitment to finding common ground for our community speaks for itself. Throughout my tenure, I have experienced both praise and criticism, but I understand that running for office means accepting this duality.
“My parents instilled in me the value of sacrifice and service, and I am grateful to be an American citizen with the freedom to vote, protest, and assemble without fear of retribution. I encourage you to continue advocating for leaders who prioritize genuine service over grandstanding, and to support policies that uplift our community.
“One of my greatest honors has been serving as both a Councilmember and Mayor of our city. We are fortunate to be part of a vibrant community filled with incredible people. As we look to the future, let us remember that we are working for our children, our elders, and everyone in between. Each day, strive to make a positive impact, as one day you may find yourself in the role of a parent or a retiree in the community you helped shape.
“It’s essential to remain vocal and engaged as we face the challenges of being a leading nation. Reflect on what the next generation will inherit in terms of our policies and systems. Elected officials are here to serve you, not the other way around. Let us be respectful yet unyielding in our pursuit of a community we can all be proud of; after all, freedom is worth fighting for.
“As I step away and choose not to run for reelection, I leave you in the capable hands of our City Manager, Adolfo Bailon, and my fellow Council Members, whom I have come to deeply respect and admire. I’m inspired by those of you stepping up to run for office, and I congratulate you on this important endeavor. Please remember that every policy you support will shape our community and future generations.
“Thank you for the trust you placed in me when you elected me. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to serve this city I love.
“Sincerely,
“Burien Councilmember Jimmy Matta“
Thank you Mr. Matta, wishing health and happiness in all that you do