EDITOR’S NOTE: Since our creation in 2007, The B-Town Blog allows residents running for local office one free post for when they announce their candidacy. If you are a candidate running for local office in 2025 and you’d like a free story, please email a press release and photo to scott@southkingmedia.com.
Jamie “Jo” Skeen, a care worker, former city councilmember, and advocate for collaborative leadership, has announced her candidacy for Position 5 on the Burien City Council.
Skeen, who works at a local facility supporting youth with autism and co-occurring mental health conditions, says her hands-on experience has strengthened her belief in teamwork and practical service.
“I am inspired by the compassion, diversity, and resilience of the people in Burien,” Skeen said in a statement. “As a proud member of this community, I’m ready to step up and serve with heart, vision, and dedication.”
Though new to politics in Washington, Skeen previously served on a city council in another state. She is also a published author and mother of five adult children. Her eight-year-old grandson, who is on the autism spectrum, remains a central motivation in her campaign.
“I’m not running to reinvent Burien,” she added. “I’m here to lead with heart, humor, and humility—and to help move Burien forward through collaboration, not conflict.”
Her platform includes strengthening public safety, supporting small businesses, expanding access to affordable housing, and fostering economic development through inclusive partnerships.
More information on Skeen’s campaign is available at www.jamiejo4burien.com.
Her full campaign announcement is published below:
Jamie “Jo” Skeen Announces Candidacy for Burien City Council, Position 5
Jamie “Jo” Skeen has announced her candidacy for Position 5 on the Burien City Council, bringing a spirit of community service and a collaborative, people-first approach to local leadership.
“I am inspired by the compassion, diversity, and resilience of the people in Burien,” Jo said in a statement. “As a proud member of this community, I’m ready to step up and serve with heart, vision, and dedication.”
Jo works at a local care facility supporting youth with autism and co-occurring mental health conditions. Her daily work with a team of hands-on professionals has deepened her belief in the power of teamwork, communication, and practical service.
While new to Washington’s political landscape, Jo previously served as a city council member in another state, gaining valuable experience in local governance, collaborative leadership, and responsive representation.
In addition to her public service experience, Jo is a published author and lifelong learner who values curiosity, growth, and open-minded conversation.
Her priorities for Burien include strengthening public safety, expanding access to affordable housing, supporting small businesses, and promoting smart economic development. She envisions a thriving, inclusive Burien where partnerships between residents, community leaders, and law enforcement help create safe and welcoming neighborhoods.
Jo is also deeply rooted in family life. She is the proud mother of five adult children and “Nana” to a spirited eight-year-old grandson on the autism spectrum—her greatest inspiration and motivation.
“I’m not running to reinvent Burien,” Jo added. “I’m here to lead with heart, humor, and humility—and to help move Burien forward through collaboration, not conflict.”
For more information or to learn how to support Jo’s campaign, visit www.jamiejo4burien.com or facebook.com/jamiejo4burien.
Info on 2025 Elections
Burien City Councilmembers serve staggered four-year terms, with about half the seats up for election every two years; in 2025, those include:
- Position 1: Incumbent Hugo Garcia
- Position 3: Incumbent Jimmy Matta (not running for reelection)
- Position 5: Incumbent/Deputy Mayor Sarah Moore
- Position 7: Incumbent Stephanie Mora
In 2025, there will be a primary election on Aug. 5, with the top two vote-getters for each position moving on to the General Election on Nov. 5.
The deadline to file for the 2025 election was May 9, 2025.
