The city has announced steps Seattle is taking to improve services to Seattle's growing immigrant and refugee population.

Improved translation and interpretation services, technical assistance for immigrant-owned businesses, increased access to city grants and an advisory board focused on immigrant and refugee issues are just some of the actions included in Mayor Greg Nickels' plan.

"Though the growing number of immigrants and refugees in Seattle come from different parts of the world, they all share a desire to build a new and better life in this country," Nickels said. "I'm committed to removing barriers to that better life and ensuring that this city serves all of its residents equally. We all benefit when we are all included."

Councilmember Tom Rasmussen, chair of the Housing, Human Services and Health Committee says the city welcomes immigrants and refugees.

"They bring new energy, an eagerness to learn and work and to improve their lives," he said. "Seattle will work to eliminate any obstacles to their efforts to succeed."