Seattle Film Office Head Leaving, Replacement Unclear

SEATTLE, WA — The head of Seattle's film office is leaving for a job with King County. For the time being, it appears her job will go unfilled.

Office of Film and Music director Kate Becker announced Thursday that she'll move to King County Executive Dow Constantine's office to be his arts and culture strategist. Seattle Office of Arts and Culture Director Randy Engstrom will take on Becker's duties for now.

"Based on community engagement and strategic analysis, a recommendation will be made to Mayor Durkan on the best path forward for the long term. No positions or staffing decisions have been made at this time," department spokesman Joe Mirabella said in a statement.

It appears there's a larger rethinking of the film office going on. Mirabella said that the offices of Arts and Culture and Economic Development will "undertake a research, planning and engagement process to define a Creative Economy strategy ... that best meets the needs of the film, music, events, and arts communities in today’s rapidly shifting economic climate."

The film office is tasked with growing "the creative economy, with a focus on strengthening the film, music, nightlife, and special events sectors."

Becker's departure comes amid other changes at City Hall. Durkan nominated new heads for the parks, economic development, and employee ombud departments this week, while Office of Housing Director Steve Walker announced he would leave the city in July.