Experience - Resilience - Community

I’m Katia Zakharoff, and I’m running for Issaquah City Council – Position 6. Over the past few months, I set out on a mission - knocking on more than 6,000 doors across our city. That mission was simple: to listen. I heard your concerns about traffic, the quality of recent road repairs, and the need for safer, more reliable ways to get around. I also heard frustrations that our permitting process feels too complex and takes too long to get through, slowing down families, homeowners, and businesses alike. And I heard your hopes that we can protect our trees while still making space for responsible growth.

Meet Katia Zakharoff

I bring the experience to turn those conversations into action. As your Planning Policy Commissioner, a member of the Commercial Property Standing Committee, and a participant in the Climate Action Plan Committee, I’ve been directly engaged in shaping Issaquah’s future. With Central Issaquah redevelopment and light rail on the horizon, we must plan with care - balancing growth, fiscal responsibility, and the character of our community. As a first-generation immigrant, longtime small business owner, and MBA, I know how to manage both budgets and change.

I’m proud to have earned the backing of the King County and 5th LD Democrats, Eastside Businesses, key organizations, Eastside Fire & Rescue heroes, and numerous community and business leaders. But more than any organizational endorsement, what matters most to me is your support. When you opened your doors and shared your concerns, when you volunteered, or when you offered to place a sign in your yard — you reminded me why I am running. This campaign is about people. It’s about you, your family, and the future of our Issaquah.

I count on your vote this November so we can continue this mission of care and community, together!

As a candidate for the Issaquah City Council, my motivation stems from a deep understanding that our city belongs to the residents who call it home. I am committed to representing our community's interests and ensuring that every voice is heard. The issues I will address have emerged from countless conversations with community members over the years, as well as my dedicated service on various Issaquah committees. Together, we can work towards a vibrant and inclusive future for Issaquah, where everyone feels valued and represented.

Housing and Growth
white concrete building near green trees during daytime
white concrete building near green trees during daytime
a large building with a staircase going up the side of it
a large building with a staircase going up the side of it
Traffic and Roads
Environment and Safety

Focus Areas

Permitting and Small Business
  • Ensure higher-quality road repairs that last.

  • Invest in safe, reliable streets, sidewalks, and bike paths.

  • Plan smarter connections with upcoming light rail.

    See more...

  • Support affordable housing for working families.

  • Guide Central Issaquah’s growth with care and balance.

  • Keep Issaquah livable as our city expands.

    See more...

  • Simplify and speed up permitting so residents and businesses don’t wait months.

  • Support small businesses with fair, predictable city processes.

  • Keep Issaquah friendly for both families and employers.

    See more...

  • Protect trees and green spaces while allowing thoughtful growth.

  • Strengthen partnerships with police, fire, and mental health responders.

  • Keep Issaquah a safe, welcoming community for all.

    See more...

Latest Planning Policy Commission Meeting

Meetings are posted regularly on the City of Issaquah Youtube Channel

Experience
Education
  • BA in Economics - Regional Finance and Economics Institute - Kursk, Russia (2004)

  • MBA in Corporate Management - Regional Finance and Economics Institute - Kursk, Russia (2006)

Volunteering

Endorsed by Leaders. Powered by Neighbors

Organizations

Distinction Badges

Elected Officials

Community and Business Leaders

Fred Butler - Former Mayor of Issaquah

Sarah Hoey - Issaquah Highlands Community Association Manager

Nelli Tkach - "The Lucky Pen" Education Company Owner

John Traeger - Former Issaquah City Council Member

Marylin Batura - Former Issaquah City Council Member

Paul Dzedzic - Director of Leadership Institute - CCER UW

Margaret Soderstrom - Ashford at Vista Park HOA President

Menka Soni - City of Redmond Arts Commissioner, President of AmPowering

Please note: Endorsers' offices, positions, or organizations are provided for identification purposes only and do not denote an endorsement of the candidate by that organization.

Sergey Nekrasov - Nekrasov Dance, owner

Viktorya Dadyan - Viktorya Wellness, owner

Michael Levenkov - ML Dance, owner

But the most meaningful endorsement is yours. Every neighbor who opens their door, shares their story, volunteers, or places a sign in their yard - you are the heart of this campaign. I count on your vote this November to carry our mission of care and community forward.

brown wooden dock towards water
Get in Touch

It deeply concerns me when I see the voices of our residents and local business owners being overlooked by those who have the power and duty to help. I genuinely care about your stories and experiences in Issaquah. If you have something on your heart, I invite you to reach out - whether it’s a quick message or a phone call. I would be honored to listen and share in your journey. I am building a “library” of our community’s stories because I believe that my role on the council is to be a true representative of our shared hopes, dreams, and challenges.

I am also thrilled to invite you to join my campaign as a volunteer! Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our community, connect with like-minded individuals, and gain valuable experience in the political process. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and skill sets, so whether you're interested in canvassing, distributing yard signs, managing social media, or planning events, there’s a place for you on our team. Let’s work together to make a difference in Issaquah - sign up to volunteer today!

Local elections are just as important as national elections. They are a chance to directly impact the community you live in and shape the future of your city or town. By casting your vote in Issaquah’s local elections, you can help elect officials who align with your values and priorities. You can also have a say in important issues such as education, public safety, and infrastructure.

This year’s election is on Tuesday, November 4th. In Washington State, voter registration is required at least 8 days prior to Election Day. You can register or update your information here: Register to Vote - Washington State.

Your vote matters, so don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference in your community. Remember, every vote counts!

Make Sure to Vote!