The Issues That Matter
Housing & Affordability
Ending Street Homelessness
Reform of the Tri-City Animal Shelter
It’s Your City.
Expect More.
Pasco City Councilman Leo Perales
Leo Perales is your District 3 Councilman for the great city of Pasco.
Its Your City. Expect More.
Update on the situation at Chiawana High School:
After taking a closer look and speaking with those involved, there is additional context around the situation that’s important for the community to understand.
The district’s policy is what it is, and based on conversations and information I’ve received, Chiawana has not seen widespread issues with how it’s being applied. In practice, many students who identify as transgender are choosing to use separate or private restrooms.
I also spoke with Mr. Stewart, who shared that he took his original post down at his own discretion. He also made it clear that this is still a concern and something he believes leaders should continue to discuss. That perspective matters and reinforces that this is not something new, but an ongoing issue that deserves thoughtful attention. I appreciate Chiawana Principal Mr. Morales for taking the time to provide more context and insight into how things are being handled at the school level.
Even with that added context, the broader concern does not go away. Parents and students on all sides of this issue deserve to be heard and treated with respect. We can stand firm in our values like privacy, safety, and parental involvement while still respecting one another as a community and working toward a better balance.
I also want to address the tone of some of the conversation online. The threats and extreme comments I’ve seen are completely uncalled for. That is not who we are as a community, and it does nothing to move this conversation forward. We can disagree, but we need to do it in a way that reflects respect for one another.
While I serve on the City Council and this is a school district matter, I feel compelled as a parent and as a member of this community to better understand these policies and how they are impacting families. I will continue engaging with the school board to gather more information and look for solutions that reflect the concerns being raised.
This situation does not change my overall perspective on supporting Pasco schools. I believe strong schools matter for our kids and for our community, and I continue to support that effort. Ultimately, how you vote for the Levy is your prerogative but I have voted YES for our schools. What matters next is that we stay continue to stay engaged, hold our institutions accountable, and push for solutions that reflect our communities values.
It’s your city. Expect more.
It’s honestly secondhand embarrassing to see posts like this. You do realize the internet is permanent—and as a public servant, your words carry weight. Posting something like this without knowing the full story was grossly irresponsible, and you should apologize immediately. What’s more concerning is the lack of judgment and empathy you’ve shown. You used your platform to publicly call out a CHILD, who may have already been dealing with a bully situation. I can’t imagine how that child’s parents must feel seeing this play out so publicly. I would love to say more but I have class.
You, as an elected official, tried to start a public investigation into a child’s genitalia. Before even getting the facts straight, you spread misinformation that targeted trans kids. And you can’t even apologize?
When you placate everyone you achieve absolutely nothing. The fact that this parent was most likely bullied to take down their post does not make the situation go away. The fact that we are “discussing it” means no side is actually taken seriously. We can just label it “to be worked on” pat ourselves on the back and focus on other matters. The state is very clear on these matters. Parents have limited rights when it comes to their kids, and is allowing sexual deviancy to be punished less. As a parent are you supposed to “go with the flow” of WA State and the leaders who are too afraid of the backlash to actually deal with the issue? 75% of our home taxes, feeds these schools that use the answer “well we try to get them to use private bathrooms” and that is supposed to satisfy people? Centrism gives way to a secure environment, especially in this case. Preaching patience and wait-and-see is not a great look when your message is making Pasco better.
Soooo the incident did or did not happen?
He shouldn't appreciate or take it down
So I suppose I can’t go Disc Golfing since I’m pansexual?
The real PSD update, go to school for actual accurate information. "Dear Families, Staff, and Community, We are aware of a recent social media post regarding an alleged incident at Chiawana High School reporting that a transgender student entered a girls’ restroom and caused another student to feel unsafe. We understand situations like this can raise concern, and we want to provide accurate information based on a thorough review. Pasco School District takes all reports involving student safety, privacy, and well-being seriously. School administrators immediately investigated the report. This included speaking directly with the student who shared the concern and reviewing hallway camera footage from the timeframe in question. Based on that review, the information shared in the social media post is not accurate. The post was made by a parent who was relaying secondhand information. School administrators spoke directly with the student who was present, and that student provided a description. Administrators then used that description to identify the student involved. Because misinformation can lead to real harm, it is important to be clear: the situation described in the post did not occur as stated, and no transgender student was involved in this incident. We share this clarification to prevent any student from being misidentified, targeted, or placed at risk due to inaccurate information. We recognize that misinformation can spread quickly and create confusion. We encourage families to reach out directly to school or district staff with concerns so they can be addressed promptly, respectfully, and with accurate information. Pasco School District remains committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for every student. District practices align with state and federal law and our nondiscrimination procedures, which ensure all students are treated with dignity and their privacy is protected. Thank you, Pasco School District"
Again, thank you for taking concerns seriously and keeping the community informed. Navigating such a contentious subject is not easy!
Or maybe everyone should settle down. This is a good time for calmer thinking.
Leo, I hope you learned from this. Don't post "rumors."
Sorry but this begs the question, CAN A GROWN MAN WHO IDENTIFIES AS WOMAN GO INTO THE WOMENS RESTROOM?? Or what I’m I missing? Because that’s what I’m understanding
As long as a biological male can enter a woman’s bathroom or locker room in a PSD building I would will continue to vote no on any Bonds or Levy’s.
So....screw what parents are voicing on their concerns and that of their children... you "Stand" with the school district no matter what. Sure was a lot of words to disguise the actual response.
Do you support men in woman bathrooms?
So no real answers to the public’s questions oh ok
See the disgusting and negative hateful comments continue on this post too.
There are so many transphobic adults (and children) here just being reckless with people’s lives. This whole situation is harmful and was unnecessarily escalated. it just seems calculated to spread more anti-trans hate.
So you spread a false accusation attacking the trans community and then say both sides Just need to calm down… got it…
What to do if you’re the victim of a hate crime: Get medical attention if you need it. Write down what happened before you forget. Contact the local law enforcement agency immediately. If other people witnessed the incident, ask them for their contact info. Save all physical evidence (e.g., graffiti, eggshells, writing on your vehicle). If it’s safe to do so, take photos. Seek support from trusted friends and family members and contact community organizations and hate crime victim support services in your area.
So, the school investigated itself and declared itself innocent! Um I dont think so. Was the police called? They should have been.
I will always vote no on the school obvious and I will always homeschool my child to avoid circumstances like these we have Balance with male and female. There is no balance when you add a third imaginary gender
A girl perceived another GIRL as trans and started a bullying campaign that what spread first by her parent then amplified by Leo A Perales . Girls are being hurt by ANTI Trans rhetoric. Once again, discrimination is harmful. Children that are trans EXISTING doesn't give adults permission to bully, harass, and threaten. Adults threatening children or demanding to see genitals is disgusting. Adults spreading misinformation and hate is disgusting. There were several people on your last post Leo who talked about physically harming children they believed were trans. And this girl wasn't even trans. And you platformed this Leo. Do something in true repentance.
How can we say children matter, yet our children are afraid to go to a restroom. We as adults, contradict ourselves, in attempt to approve ourselves. It's disgusting
I've worked in the school district and you'd be surprised at how split this problem is. The ones who voice an opinion come out as bigot rather than a literal complaint. It's hard to not decide it's one sided. It's pretty obvious we would rather condone what is going on and be hero within the community rather that fight for what's morally correct. Our community has a problem
Respecting Girls Safety
I appreciate the residents of Pasco who sent this to me and brought it forward. I also saw it begin circulating rapidly online. I’ve also spoken with Mr. Stewart and will look to see that this is properly addressed.
As a father of daughters, I’m going to be very direct.
Every student deserves to feel safe at school. That includes our daughters. When a policy leads to students feeling uncomfortable in private spaces, that is not something parents should be told to “just deal with it.” That response alone tells me we have a problem.
This isn’t about attacking any individual student. It’s about whether the policy itself is balanced, thoughtful, and actually working for everyone. Right now, it’s clear that some families feel like their concerns are being dismissed instead of addressed.
I will be reaching out to the school board to better understand the policy, how it’s being implemented, and what options exist moving forward because simply accepting it without discussion is not an option.
This should be an eye opener. When families feel like their voices aren’t being heard on issues that directly impact their kids, trust starts to erode. That matters, and we’ve seen how that plays out in this community.
At the end of the day, these are our schools and our tax dollars. Families have every right to expect that decisions are thoughtful, transparent, and prioritize the safety and comfort of all students.
We are not going to just “deal with it.” We are going to ask questions, expect answers, and push for solutions that respect everyone.
LP
Update on the situation at Chiawana High School: After taking a closer look and speaking with those involved, there is additional context around the situation that’s important for the community to understand. The district’s policy is what it is, and based on conversations and information I’ve received, Chiawana has not seen widespread issues with how it’s being applied. In practice, many students who identify as transgender are choosing to use separate or private restrooms. I also spoke with Mr. Stewart, who shared that he took his original post down at his own discretion. He also made it clear that this is still a concern and something he believes leaders should continue to discuss. That perspective matters and reinforces that this is not something new, but an ongoing issue that deserves thoughtful attention. I appreciate Chiawana Principal Mr. Morales for taking the time to provide more context and insight into how things are being handled at the school level. Even with that added context, the broader concern does not go away. Parents and students on all sides of this issue deserve to be heard and treated with respect. We can stand firm in our values like privacy, safety, and parental involvement while still respecting one another as a community and working toward a better balance. I also want to address the tone of some of the conversation online. The threats and extreme comments I’ve seen are completely uncalled for. That is not who we are as a community, and it does nothing to move this conversation forward. We can disagree, but we need to do it in a way that reflects respect for one another. While I serve on the City Council and this is a school district matter, I feel compelled as a parent and as a member of this community to better understand these policies and how they are impacting families. I will continue engaging with the school board to gather more information and look for solutions that reflect the concerns being raised. This situation does not change my overall perspective on supporting Pasco schools. I believe strong schools matter for our kids and for our community, and I continue to support that effort. Ultimately, how you vote for the Levy is your prerogative but I have voted YES for our schools. What matters next is that we stay continue to stay engaged, hold our institutions accountable, and push for solutions that reflect our communities values. LP
His page isn't public. But I have talked with him and the post has been authenticated.
I’ll never ever vote yes to another school levy in Washington State. Period
this is false news spread by the same rogue council man it was found not true by Pasco schools but guess he doesn't care
Statement from PSD: Dear Families, Staff, and Community, We are aware of a recent social media post regarding an alleged incident at Chiawana High School reporting that a transgender student entered a girls’ restroom and caused another student to feel unsafe. We understand situations like this can raise concern, and we want to provide accurate information based on a thorough review. Pasco School District takes all reports involving student safety, privacy, and well-being seriously. School administrators immediately investigated the report. This included speaking directly with the student who shared the concern and reviewing hallway camera footage from the timeframe in question. Based on that review, the information shared in the social media post is not accurate. The post was made by a parent who was relaying secondhand information. School administrators spoke directly with the student who was present, and that student provided a description. Administrators then used that description to identify the student involved. Because misinformation can lead to real harm, it is important to be clear: the situation described in the post did not occur as stated, and no transgender student was involved in this incident. We share this clarification to prevent any student from being misidentified, targeted, or placed at risk due to inaccurate information. We recognize that misinformation can spread quickly and create confusion. We encourage families to reach out directly to school or district staff with concerns so they can be addressed promptly, respectfully, and with accurate information. Pasco School District remains committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for every student. District practices align with state and federal law and our nondiscrimination procedures, which ensure all students are treated with dignity and their privacy is protected. Thank you, Pasco School District
We are aware of a recent social media post regarding an alleged incident at Chiawana High School reporting that a transgender student entered a girls’ restroom and caused another student to feel unsafe. We understand situations like this can raise concern, and we want to provide accurate information based on a thorough review. Pasco School District takes all reports involving student safety, privacy, and well-being seriously. School administrators immediately investigated the report. This included speaking directly with the student who shared the concern and reviewing hallway camera footage from the timeframe in question. Based on that review, the information shared in the social media post is not accurate. The post was made by a parent who was relaying secondhand information. School administrators spoke directly with the student who was present, and that student provided a description. Administrators then used that description to identify the student involved. Because misinformation can lead to real harm, it is important to be clear: the situation described in the post did not occur as stated, and no transgender student was involved in this incident. We share this clarification to prevent any student from being misidentified, targeted, or placed at risk due to inaccurate information. We recognize that misinformation can spread quickly and create confusion. We encourage families to reach out directly to school or district staff with concerns so they can be addressed promptly, respectfully, and with accurate information. Pasco School District remains committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for every student. District practices align with state and federal law and our nondiscrimination procedures, which ensure all students are treated with dignity and their privacy is protected.
Pasco City Councilman Leo Perales doesn’t the very last sentence of your post say this: “We are going to ask questions, expect answers, and push for solutions that respect EVERYONE.” I read that correctly, yes?
Pasco City Councilman Leo Perales focus on your Trader Joe’s
Are you saying you think it’s unsafe for trans girls to use the girls bathroom? Do you think it’s safe for trans girls to use the boys bathroom? There is significant research that shows it’s not safe for trans people to use the bathroom of the gender they don’t present as. There isn’t evidence showing that trans people using bathrooms for the gender they present as causes safety issues. Leo, I mean this in the nicest way possible but republicans are never going to back you for a partisan office after you ran for the state legislature as a democrat. I know you want to be a genuine good public servant, so keep your focus on that. You do a lot of good. A city councilor waging culture wars in school districts isn’t the way to do that, and it’s never going to make up for running as a democrat
The district staff had no problem discriminating against a special needs child who doesn't understand there is a boy or girls bathroom. So I don't 🤔 think they should have an issue discriminating/ or breaking any policies to insure the girls safety.
Please have more compassion here. Speaking as the parent of a trans kid fully presenting as their identified gender who graduated from Delta last year, where was my kid *supposed* to go to the bathroom? These kids are trying to survive the school day every single second. Guaranteed they don't actually *want* to use *any* bathroom if they can get away with it. My kid ended up using the school counselor's bathroom in part because we were directly involved. Most kids don't have that luxury.
Simple solution - private single occupancy bathrooms. Private = privacy, no? Most schools already have these for faculty, shouldn't be hard to turn a couple over to students. We are not Idaho. We don't ban human beings from existing. We find solutions so that all can coexist.
While I agree that everyone should feel safe, "everyone" INCLUDES the transgender student. Questions should be asked of every party, no one should be blamed, education should be shared. This area has a bad habit of thinking different = bad. This is simply not true. Knowledge and discussion of this topic will hopefully help people open their eyes, but we must do it in a respectful way that doesnt demonize either party. This post sounds inherently biased and I simply dont trust that anything good will come from saying that anyone who presents as transgender is mentally ill. Also side note, not allowing bathroom usage absolutely WILL affect cisgender people who simply do not fit binary norms. Say a girl has short hair, and a more prominent jawline, if someone doesnt speak to that girl they may assume she is transgender while using a female bathroom even tho she also identifies as female!
so make gender neutral bathrooms in the school maybe? everyone does deserve to feel safe and comfortable at school, all while others with different pronouns should feel safe and comfortable as well. Just my opinion.
This description of the trans student sounds very politically biased. If there was an actual situation where she was harassing the other girl then I am sure it would be addressed but them simply using the restroom is not a disturbance. School is a place to teach students about the real world, a business or office will not tolerate harassment of any form. But you will be expected to share a restroom with a transgender person, that is a personal hurdle you will have to work through emotionally and figure out why it is you truly feel uncomfortable. It isn’t that deep.
I agree every student should feel safe at school. Especially in private space and I hope Pasco can change their policies to allow that to happen.
Its the right for ALL students to feel safe. That includes trans kids!
Thank you for bringing this to the attention of Pasco residents/taxpayers! Boys don’t have the right to be in girls bathrooms, period.
I'm super confused on the bigoted language being used here. How do we know this student is mentally ill? Were they having a mental health episode and required care? Or were they simply a person trying to use the bathroom? What was the behavior that made the other person uncomfortable?
There is no indication the trans person did anything besides being present in a room. Maybe the girl in the exchange is the one who needs counseling for mental health issues.
Let's just say that this poicy isn't working for everyone. How do you make this policy work for everyone?
Is there a litter box for those who "identify" as cats??
Leo using this mal-informed occurrence as a political pawn lmaooo
I was in jail years ago with a man who identified as a woman. Many girls had a problem with it but she ended up being the nicest person there. I feel for them, as they feel like they do not belong.
This is coming from OSPI not the school district. That’s who you need to talk to. Not PSD Board. Just trying to save you some time.
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.
Transparency matters.
I’m putting this out early so everyone knows exactly what’s coming and when.
On Monday, May 4th at 7:00 PM, the Pasco City Council will be voting on a 0.1% sales tax increase through the Transportation Benefit District.
This is nearly two weeks out — no surprises, no last-minute decisions.
I’ll be sharing this a few times each week to make sure the community has every opportunity to stay informed.
If you have thoughts, concerns, or support — come to City Council and speak during public comment. That is the time to be heard before the vote happens.
It’s your city. Expect more.
⸻
La transparencia importa.
Estoy compartiendo esto con anticipación para que todos sepan exactamente qué viene y cuándo.
El lunes 4 de mayo a las 7:00 PM, el Concejo Municipal de Pasco votará sobre un aumento del 0.1% en el impuesto sobre las ventas a través del Distrito de Beneficio de Transporte.
Esto es con casi dos semanas de anticipación — sin sorpresas, sin decisiones de último momento.
Estaré compartiendo esta información varias veces por semana para asegurar que la comunidad tenga toda la oportunidad de mantenerse informada.
Si tienes opiniones, inquietudes o apoyo — ven al Concejo Municipal y participa durante el comentario público. Ese es el momento para que tu voz sea escuchada antes de que se tome la decisión.
Es tu ciudad. Exige más.
I have a great idea. Put forth a vote to lay out every penny Pasco spent in 2025 and let’s see how much went to what. I’m aware that the info might already be accessible but let’s make it all in one place and easy to decipher. Before we vote on any tax, we need to look at how they are spent. Let citizens decide where the slush is and cut it. Also, I’ve not yet heard anything about my other issue.
So, sales tax in Pasco will be 9.0%!!? No way. Voters should have the opportunity to vote in this.
Stop putting in bike lanes or tax them. Removing two lanes of traffic from west Pasco to downtown was a blunder
AI photo... that's not our City Hall
Oh, they don’t like hearing about that $40 million loan they took out. They should have to put that on the ballot that they don’t actually have the money and they’re gonna borrow it.
It’s not for Ben Franklin transit that has like $30 million in a slush fund is it? And if not, what is this for?
TBD fancy word for tax!!! Just let the roads rot maybe the pot holes will slow down traffic and the city won't need to install speed bumps. How many citizens have said they want more taxes Leo? And that's a serious question.
Just so everyone is clear this is not a transit tax.
Council shouldn't be imposing tax without putting it to a vote by the citizens.
Does the city of pasco have a constitution like Washington does? If so what does it say about taxes
What "Pasco City Hall" is that in the photo/ad? I've lived here since 1977 and I don't recognize it.
Cut back on the number of buses by submitting les to the transit. The most people Ive seen is 4-5 on a bus. Generally, just 1 or 2 people. Such a waste drain on the city.
No more taxes Leo!! We do not want to hear “we don’t have a choice” we do, make drastic cuts period!! CANCEL the water park idea, take our losses and save the monies for something else. Again we are tired of excuses every time we turn around the council is making new LID’s, new way to tax property, new sales tax increases etc. STOP
Well, I’m sure you know I don’t like more taxes but we do need a better police presence. I was working a subdivision out off of Burns Road for two months and drove from road 56 out Court St. to Road 100 by where you’re gonna put the speed humps during rush-hour morning traffic and rush-hour afternoon traffic and I’ve never seen a cop or sheriff.
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When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.Levy tax if passed will increase taxes. Water and sewer already announced increases for next 4 years. Now roads need repairs when the city clearly did not design proper roads. Sandifur to round about on rd 100 is a cluster. 182 off-ramp to South 100 is a waste of space and tax payers money. It’s been blocked off and literally unusable for years.
Pasco City Councilman Leo Perales .....Are you kidding me???
Yay more taxes for the peasants!
Pasco City Councilman Leo Perales you are not listening to your district or Pasco citizens. We are tired of being taxed so much!!! Why aren't you listening to us!!!! Just let the streets rot for all I care. And now you guys want more for Butterfield!!! C'mon man listen. Wait until next year Washington State just passed the biggest tax hike in state history. Be smart say no to more taxes figure it out another way
It's your city.
Expect more.
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