12/10/2025
KCD is happy to announce that the 2025 Local Food Initiative has been released. The plan renews the vision first laid out in 2015 and provides a 10-year roadmap to address current and emerging challenges and prepares for the future. It reaffirms our shared commitment to a food system that is economically and environmentally sustainable, rooted in equity and justice, and responsive to the voices and needs of communities across King County.
King County and KCD, through its Regional Food System Program, began initial planning for the update in the fall of 2023 which led to an 18-month process with support from New Venture Advisors. A key part of this process has been the Food System Advisory Council (FSAC) – a group of more than twenty leaders from farms, businesses, community organizations, and governments across the County.
Through our partnerships, we built an inclusive planning process that was guided by community voices at every step. This included extensive engagement through a survey, listening sessions, focus groups and interviews. These perspectives were combined with valuable learning from programs, projects and findings from other county and regional plans to ensure alignment in policy efforts and investments.
Ultimately, this plan belongs to the community and will be implemented through the efforts of many. The need to protect farmland, support farmers and food businesses, expand equitable access to healthy food, invest in infrastructure, and ensure that climate and equity guide decision-making are critical. These issues are complex and costly, and they demand a coordinated approach. The updated LFI provides the direction needed to guide investments, shape policy, and align the work of governments, funders, and community partners.
We are grateful to have participated in this critical effort to design a strategic plan to address the important issues facing our food system in King County and the Region. We look forward to KCD’s participation and leadership to help catalyze key strategies moving forward.