About The Seattle Digital Commons
Seattle Digital Commons is a Seattle-based group building public-interest software. We focus on projects where clearer information or a useful tool could help people understand a local issue or get something done.
Our live Council Record project makes city council meetings and available transcripts searchable. We are also exploring a small food-access data prototype, starting with the needs of local food pantries.
Why We Exist
Public information can be difficult to find and use. We build tools around specific questions, show the sources behind our work, and make clear which parts are live and which are still being explored.
How We Work
- •Start with a concrete question or need.
- •Keep the original sources available for people to check.
- •Describe limitations and unfinished work plainly.
- •Revise the work when people find gaps or errors.
Our Team
DJ Petersen
Founder, Software Developer
Passionate about civic outreach, housing solutions, and sustainable transportation through increased bicycle and transit usage
Erick Benitez-Ramos
Software Developer
Interested in contributing to Seattle Council Analysis and other local civic projects.
Board of Directors
Shelby Harvey
Director
Andrew Hopkins
Treasurer, Director
Aleksandrs Rudzitis
Secretary, Director
Alumni
Noah White
Former High School Intern
Interested in civic outreach and community engagement
Call to Action
Volunteers
Interested in building civic software? Tell us about your skills and availability.
Apply now →Community Organizations
Tell us about a local information problem or a process that could work better.
Submit a project →Funders & Mentors
Get in touch about supporting a project through funding or technical guidance.
Get involved →