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.

Rocco DeVito, a longtime advocate for housing affordability and community-driven policy, has announced his 2025 candidacy for Position 7 on the Burien City Council.

Currently, Position 7 is held by incumbent Stephanie Mora, who is running for re-election.

A former Burien Planning Commissioner and current shop steward for the PROTEC17 government workers’ union, DeVito brings a background in public service, transportation planning, and community advocacy. His campaign will focus on expanding housing access, improving public safety, and enhancing youth and recreation programs.

“I come from a working-class background where I learned early that hard work should lead to opportunity,” DeVito said. “When kids have space to be kids, that’s not just good for quality of life, it’s a public safety investment.”

DeVito’s campaign has already gained endorsements from Councilmembers Hugo Garcia and Deputy Mayor Sarah Moore, as well as State Senator Tina Orwall, State Representatives Mia Gregerson and Edwin Obras, PROTEC17, and the Transit Riders Union.

“It’s unfortunate, and completely avoidable, that Burien keeps making headlines for internal conflict instead of progress,” DeVito said. “We should be working together to solve problems, not fighting among ourselves. We need real solutions on housing and public safety that put people at the center. That requires honest dialogue and a commitment to doing the hard work.”

His official campaign kickoff event will be held this Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 2 p.m. at the Burien Community Center.

More information is available at www.electroccodevito.com.

Full Text of Announcement

“Longtime housing affordability advocate, community leader, and former Burien Planning Commissioner Rocco DeVitohas officially announced his candidacy for Burien City Council, Position 7.

“A proud shop steward for the local government workers’ union PROTEC17, DeVito brings both lived experience and professional expertise to the table. He aims to shape policies that promote safer, more accessible streets for everyone, whether they walk, bike, take transit, or drive.

“I come from a working-class background where I learned early that hard work should lead to opportunity,” said DeVito. “In addition to expanding housing access and fighting for living wages, I’m passionate about youth programs and public recreation. When kids have space to be kids, that’s not just good for quality of life, it’s a public safety investment.”

“DeVito says he’s running to bring a fresh, solutions-focused approach to the council, one that values collaboration over conflict. He pointed to recent tensions with regional partners, including a strained relationship with King County that nearly jeopardized Burien’s police services.

“It’s unfortunate, and completely avoidable, that Burien keeps making headlines for internal conflict instead of progress,” DeVito said. “We should be working together to solve problems, not fighting among ourselves. We need real solutions on housing and public safety that put people at the center. That requires honest dialogue and a commitment to doing the hard work.”

“DeVito’s campaign is already gaining momentum, with early endorsements from Burien City Councilmembers Hugo Garcia, and Deputy Mayor Sarah Moore. He’s also supported by State Senator Tina Orwall, State Representatives Mia Gregerson and Edwin Obras (33rd LD), his union, PROTEC17, and the Transit Riders Union.

“Burien Deputy Mayor Sarah Moore praised DeVito’s approach, stating: “I admire Rocco DeVito’s dedication to sound, people-centered policies that tackle the root causes of homelessness, and support mental and behavioral health. His focus on housing, transit accessibility, and youth programs reflects his deep care for the community. I’m proud to endorse him for a position on the Burien City Council.”

“DeVito’s official campaign kickoff will take place on Saturday, April 26 at 2:00 PM at the Burien Community Center (14700 6th Ave SW, Burien, WA 98166). Attendees can enjoy Rocco’s specially selected tacos—yes, Rocco’s Tacos—as well as light refreshments. RSVP at https://bit.ly/RoccosKickOff.

“For more information, visit www.electroccodevito.com or contact the campaign directly at electroccodevito@gmail.com.”