Seattle Councilmember Announces “Jimothy Summer” Proclamation

City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck will issue a proclamation designating summer 2026 as “Jimothy Summer” at noon on Sunday, July 26 in Bergen Place Park near the Ballard Farmers Market. The ceremony follows a recent sighting of the raccoon—dubbed “Jimothy” by local resident Kiana Hall—near the Ballard Goodwill store. Organizers plan an art competition and a tattoo studio in Ballard will offer Jimothy-themed ink for participants.

Seattle Times

The compact raccoon, captured in a series of viral photos, has become an internet sensation in Seattle and beyond. Its popularity spurred memes from Washington state agencies, a police-sketch style illustration by Matt Inman of “The Oatmeal,” and widespread community enthusiasm for whimsical, wholesome news.

Seattle Times

Rinck emphasized the raccoon’s appeal as a “welcome surprise” amid unsettling headlines, noting that residents are eager for light-hearted stories. The Washington State Department of Health posted a reassurance that the animal poses no public-health threat, provided people avoid direct contact.

Seattle Times

No organized criticism or opposition to the proclamation was reported in the available sources.

Seattle Times

• “As long as you don’t try to pet him, cuddle him or feed him, Jimothy poses zero health risk,” — Washington State Department of Health

Seattle Times

• “In a time where there is so much surprising news that is shocking to the conscience, it’s a welcome surprise when we have news that takes us off guard and is good and wholesome,” — Alexis Mercedes Rinck, City Councilmember

Seattle Times

• “I thinks it speaks to hunger for the wholesome and the way people can still be excited and pleasantly surprised.” — Alexis Mercedes Rinck, City Councilmember

Seattle Times

The proclamation reflects Seattle’s embrace of a quirky local mascot, turning a fleeting wildlife sighting into a community celebration slated for the summer of 2026.

Seattle Times