Archived news from 2008
March 31, 2008
Citizen review needed for potential county charter changes
King County residents have a chance to review and comment on proposed changes to the King County Charter at four meetings in April. A year-long review of the charter by a citizen committee has produced over a dozen proposed changes to the charter that was approved by voters nearly 40 years ago in November 1968.
March 31, 2008
See how King County protects the environment; Check out the 2007 DNRP annual report online
King County residents can learn how their county's natural resources are managed by reading the Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) 2007 annual report, "Environmental Stewardship in King County," now available online.
March 31, 2008
Opportunity for civic-minded residents on King County Board of Ethics
King County residents with an interest in law and ethics have an opportunity to apply for an open position on the King County Board of Ethics. The position will serve a three year term on the five-member citizen advisory board.
March 31, 2008
Sims receives national award for health reform
The groundbreaking health care reform initiatives of King County Executive Ron Sims have been recognized with a prestigious national award.
March 31, 2008
Employees respond to overflow at West Point Treatment Plant
Wastewater operators at King County's West Point Treatment Plant quickly controlled a sewage overflow that occurred around 3:45 p.m.
March 28, 2008
Superior Court judge rejects lawsuit aimed at preventing soccer fields at Sixty Acres Park
Plans for several new soccer fields at Sixty Acres Park in Redmond can move forward now that King County Superior Court Judge Dean Lum today dismissed a lawsuit brought by the Seattle Area Soaring Society that sought to prevent organized soccer in the park.
March 28, 2008
'It's easy being green - let King County show you how' at fun April events
April is packed with family-friendly activities across King County where everyone can learn how easy it is to practice being "green" year 'round.
March 27, 2008
X-52 targets speeding; March 28 patrols go after extreme drivers
X-52 police patrols in King, Snohomish, Skagit, Island and Whatcom counties will hit the roads this Friday looking for speeding drivers as part of a statewide effort to eliminate deaths and injuries from motor vehicle crashes.
March 26, 2008
Safely dispose of household hazardous waste with King County's Wastemobile, April 4-6 in Redmond
East King County residents will have an opportunity to safely dispose of household hazardous items with a visit to King County's Wastemobile, which will be in the parking lot of the Redmond Home Depot, April 4-6.
March 26, 2008
Safely dispose of household hazardous waste with King County's Wastemobile, March 28-30 in Kent
South King County residents will have an opportunity to safely dispose of household hazardous items with a visit to King County's Wastemobile, March 28-30 at the Fred Meyer store on Kent's East Hill. This will be the last south King County stop for the Wastemobile until later this spring.
March 26, 2008
March election a success, results finalized
King County Elections today certified the March 11, 2008 special election, which included eight ballot measures from five jurisdictions.
March 25, 2008
'It's Easy Being Green' with King County's help at Green Festival, April 12-13 in Seattle
Discover how easy it is to be green and make environmentally-friendly lifestyle choices at King County's educational pavilion during the Green Festival, April 12-13 at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center in Seattle.
March 25, 2008
Islanders selected for Dockton Road advisory group
The King County Roads Services Division has selected 14 Vashon-Maury Island residents to help advise the county on the Dockton Road Preservation Project.
March 24, 2008
Election results posted
King County Elections staff today added 28 absentee ballots to the vote totals.
March 24, 2008
17th U.S. Surgeon General keynotes national tobacco prevention conference in Seattle
What's new and next in tobacco prevention and cessation will be featured in Seattle, as over 300 tobacco prevention specialists and advocates will converge for Access 2008, a national conference hosted by Public Health - Seattle & King County.
March 20, 2008
New 30-year high in tuberculosis cases
Tuberculosis (TB) takes two million lives worldwide every year, and World TB Day on March 24 is an opportunity to focus on solutions to the devastating global epidemic. Locally, 161 cases were reported in 2007, a new 30-year high, serving as a stark reminder that TB also remains a significant challenge in King County.
March 20, 2008
Election results posted
King County Elections staff today added 46 absentee ballots to the vote totals.
March 19, 2008
Election results posted
King County Elections staff today added 161 absentee and provisional ballots to the vote totals. .
March 19, 2008
Sims to honor Paul Robeson Scholar-Athletes
The academic achievements of more than 800 student athletes will be celebrated at the 21st annual Paul Robeson Scholar-Athlete Awards. Boys and girls ranging from kindergarteners to sophomores in high school will be given trophies in honor of their accomplishments in the classroom while they also participate in sports or dance. The student athletes maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better for the entire school year.
March 19, 2008
Experienced auditor and manager selected to lead King County's Records and Licensing Services Division
King County residents are getting a highly experienced leader to take over as head of the county's newly created Records and Licensing Services Division. It will be a homecoming of sorts for Director Designee Carolyn Ableman, who brings a vast, hands-on knowledge of the records and licensing industries and Washington state regulations from her previous role in Snohomish County where she served as Chief Deputy Auditor for the last nine years. Before that, she spent 14 years with King County's Archives and Records Management and Recorder's Office.
March 19, 2008
Grab a healthy SUBWAY sandwich while enjoying King County's Marymoor Park
Healthy activity and family fun at King County's Marymoor Park can now be fueled by a nutritious meal from the park's SUBWAY sandwich shop, which has reopened for the season.
March 18, 2008
Election results posted
King County Elections staff today added 89 absentee ballots to the vote totals.
March 18, 2008
Natural resources projects grants available through King County
King County is offering grants of up to $60,000 for community projects that protect or improve watersheds, streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, tidewater and upland habitat.
March 18, 2008
Stopping colon cancer starts with simple screening
The main reason people do not screen for colon cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death in men and women in King County, is due to a lack of awareness. Public Health - Seattle & King County is trying to change this fact with a new education campaign launched this month during Colon Cancer Awareness Month.
March 18, 2008
Your idea for on-site spill 'first aid' response could result in a $10,000 grant from King County
A typical construction site that features several pieces of heavy machinery can easily become a clean-up site when hazardous materials such as fuel, oil and lubricants spill onto the ground. A quick and appropriate response to such spills can prevent them from becoming bigger - and costlier - problems to correct.
March 18, 2008
Workshops for builders address the future of sustainable building
Construction professionals looking to the future of sustainable building can learn more about innovations and market trends in building design and green materials at the next King County "GreenTools" workshops, March 25 and 27, in Seattle.
March 17, 2008
Election results posted
King County Elections staff today added 160 absentee ballots to the vote totals.
March 14, 2008
Renovate your neighborhood park, ballfields through King County youth sports facility grants
Help is available for community and youth organizations that are interested in developing or renovating neighborhood youth sports facilities through a matching grant program from King County.
March 14, 2008
County Council Town Hall to examine Equity and Social Justice Initiative
The King County Council will examine the Equity and Social Justice Initiative (ESJI) at a Town Hall Meeting in Kent on Monday, March 24. This initiative is a major new county initiative aimed at ending long-standing inequities and injustices, and promoting fairness and opportunity for all residents.
March 14, 2008
King County names Robin Friedman director of the Office of Emergency Management
Mr. Robin Friedman has been selected to lead King County's emergency management, planning and preparedness as the director of the Office of Emergency Management effective April 7. Mr. Friedman recently served Seattle residents as the Director of Security and Emergency Management for the Seattle Public Utilities.
March 13, 2008
Election results posted
King County Elections staff today added 5,920 absentee ballots to the vote totals.
March 13, 2008
King County Board of Health meeting on March 20, 2008
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Thursday, March 20, 2008, at 1:30 p.m.
March 13, 2008
Social equity and green building a good fit
Communities across King County become strong and vibrant when sustainable building practices come to affordable housing worksites
March 13, 2008
X-52 strikes King County
X-52 police patrols throughout King County will scour the roadways this weekend looking for impaired, speeding and other dangerous drivers in order to reduce traffic injuries and deaths. X-52, or "Extra Patrols Every Week," will add 2,400 hours of extra patrols to the roads in King County this year. X-52 is part of a statewide strategy called "Target Zero" that aims for zero traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2030.
March 12, 2008
More animals being saved, fostered in King County
New data shows King County Animal Care and Control reduced the euthanasia rates at its two animal shelters by more than 5 percent in 2007, and has lowered the euthanasia rate to below 18 percent in the first two months of 2008. The numbers show the shelter has maintained its goal of not euthanizing any healthy, adoptable animals.
March 12, 2008
Community town hall aims for fairness and opportunity for all
"It is unacceptable that the color of your skin or your home address are now good predictors of whether you will have a low birth weight baby, die from diabetes or your children will graduate from high school or end up in jail," says King County Executive Ron Sims. As part of the new King County Equity and Social Justice Initiative and to promote fairness and opportunity for all, dozens of local organizations are inviting the public and partner organizations to participate in a community town hall this Thursday.
March 12, 2008
King County residents to get preview of new business and real estate opportunities at Seattle Southside Forum
Everyone knows King County's Eastside is booming. But Seattle's Southside, while less well known, is also on the move. Later this month, the Seattle Southside Forum will introduce this growing area southwest of Seattle and highlight the real estate, business and development opportunities that are on the drawing board or in the planning stages for this area.
March 12, 2008
Election results posted
King County Elections staff today added 167 absentee ballots to the vote totals.
March 12, 2008
Upgraded King County Aquatic Center hosts NCAA men's swimming, diving championships
New features at the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way will greet the nation's best collegiate athletes who are coming to this world-class facility March 27-29 for the NCAA Division I Men's Swimming and Diving Championships.
March 12, 2008
Restaurant industry agrees to post nutritional information for diners
Restaurant goers in King County will be able to have nutritional information for the food they order at the time of ordering, as part of a successful negotiation with the local restaurant industry. This agreement is the first of its kind in the nation.
March 12, 2008
Federal Way site hosts King County's Wastemobile hazardous waste collection for two weekends
King County residents have two upcoming opportunities to safely dispose of household hazardous items when the King County Wastemobile continues its 19th year of collections with consecutive weekend visits to The Commons at Federal Way, March 14-16 and 21-23.
March 11, 2008
Final poll results posted; Mail ballot counting will resume tomorrow
King County Elections' staff have posted the last returns from 79 polling locations for the March 11 special election.
March 11, 2008
King County mobile home park buyout will relocate residents from harm's way
Residents of Cedar Grove Mobile Home Park along the swift-flowing, flood prone Cedar River in Maple Valley will be safely relocated from harm's way under a King County plan that includes financial assistance and counseling benefits for park residents.
March 11, 2008
Planning begins for future funding of HIV/AIDS care services
early $5.5 million will be available for HIV/AIDS care services in King County in 2009 and 2010. Starting next week, the Seattle HIV/AIDS Planning Council will begin the process of deciding what types of services will be funded with the Ryan White Treatment Modernization Act, Part A funds.
March 11, 2008
King County Jobs Initiative receives EPA training
Low-income workers can gain valuable environmental cleanup skills and employment opportunities and King County will be able to clear contaminated parcels of land, thanks to a Brownfields Job Training grant awarded to the county by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) late last week. The EPA selected the King County Jobs Initiative (KCJI) - a workforce development program created to serve low-income residents in King County -A to receive a Brownfields Job Training Grant. King County is one of 13 communities nationally to receive an award.
March 10, 2008
Executive Ron Sims' reacts to Sonics proposal
King County Executive Ron Sims today indicated support for a proposal to keep NBA basketball in Seattle.
March 10, 2008
Agreement clears way for preserving open space at King County's Soaring Eagle Park
The unique beauty and character of King County's Soaring Eagle Park will be permanently protected under an agreement struck today that preserves nearly all of the park's 628 acres as open space.
March 10, 2008
Sammamish park transfer meets growing need for Eastside playfields
The thriving youth sports leagues of east King County received a boost today, along with additional protections for the county's natural resources and Urban Growth Boundary, when the Metropolitan King County Council unanimously approved the transfer of a 30-acre parcel within Soaring Eagle Park to the city of Sammamish. The city plans to use a portion of the parcel for much-needed athletic fields in an area that is currently underserved.
March 10, 2008
King County offers free workshops in natural, low-maintenance landscaping
Residents can learn how to create a low-maintenance landscape that is healthier for both people and wildlife at one of King County's free "naturescaping" workshops.
March 10, 2008
Metro and Senior Services expands Hyde Shuttle starting March 17
Transportation services are expanding for seniors and people with disabilities in a broader area of low and middle-income Seattle neighborhoods thanks to King County, Senior Services, and the legacy of one woman who wanted to make a difference for her neighbors.
March 7, 2007
Technology innovations bring awards to King County Superior Court and District Court
Citizens have better customer service and greater access to court records thanks to technology innovations that brought top honors to King County Superior Court and King County District Court. King County Councilmembers today recognized and congratulated the winners at a commitee briefing.
March 5, 2008
February election results certified
King County Elections this morning certified the results of the Feb. 19, 2008 presidential primary and special elections.
March 4, 2008
Ballot counting nears end, results posted
The King County Elections tabulation team counted 703 additional absentee ballots and 82 provisional ballots today.
March 4, 2008
King County responds to Bothell wastewater overflow
King County's sewer utility crews responded quickly late this morning to a wastewater overflow near the North Creek Pump Station in Bothell.
March 4, 2008
Emergency management officials prepare for catastrophic earthquake
Earthquakes are the Puget Sound region's biggest threat and local emergency management officials are preparing now for the next big one. On Wednesday, March 5th over 50 local public and private sector agencies are testing emergency plans and communications by participating in a catastrophic earthquake exercise dubbed "Sound Shake '08".
March 3, 2008
Low-impact development focus of March 5 'GreenTools' workshop
Construction professionals who want to learn more about the latest low-impact development trends and practices should plan on attending the next King County "GreenTools" sustainable building workshop, Wednesday, March 5 in Seattle.
Feb. 29, 2008
Ballot counting wraps eighth day, results posted
The King County Elections tabulation team counted 2,080 additional absentee ballots today.
Feb. 29, 2008
New King County notices show homeowners where their property taxes are going
This month King County taxpayers will discover something new in their mailbox: informational, itemized property tax notices. Different than property tax statements, these notices will be mailed starting in mid-March to over 311,000 taxpayers whose taxes are paid by their mortgage company.
Feb. 28, 2008
Repairs to bridge lead to temporary closure of Snoqualmie Valley Trail segment
Bridge repair work along the Snoqualmie Valley Trail near Carnation next week will temporarily close a portion of the trail to all users, March 10-31.
Feb. 27, 2008
Ballot counting wraps seventh day, results posted
The King County Elections tabulation team counted 6,185 additional absentee ballots today.
Feb. 27, 2008
Comp Plan update benefits King County's unincorporated landowners, public and environment
King County Executive Ron Sims is proposing land use policy updates that, for the first time, integrate climate change, rural economic development, green jobs and equity and social justice.
Feb. 27, 2008
King County launches annual roadside weed control program
The King County Road Services Division is scheduled to begin its roadside weed control program in unincorporated areas of the county and in the cities of Burien, Covington, Maple Valley and Woodinville beginning April 1, 2008. As part of the program, certified technicians will perform controlled herbicide spraying along some road shoulders through the summer to reduce safety hazards for pedestrians, motorists and bicyclists. The spraying will also control noxious weeds that are toxic to some animals and pose environmental risks to native vegetation.
Feb. 26, 2008
Detour set for Burke-Gilman Trail underpass through Kenmore construction area
A month-long detour of King County's Burke-Gilman Trail in Kenmore has been established to get walkers, cyclists and other trail users safely past a road construction zone.
Feb. 26, 2008
Ballot counting wraps sixth day, results posted
The King County Elections tabulation team counted 9,459 additional absentee ballots today.
Feb. 25, 2008
Health officials document recalled beef disposal at King County's Cedar Hills Regional Landfill
More than 72,000 pounds of potentially tainted beef today were safely disposed of at King County's Cedar Hills Regional Landfill as part of the largest beef recall in U.S. history.
Feb. 25, 2008
Spay Day USA 2008: Help King County fix pet overpopulation
The owners of 200 animals in King County will be able to get free spay or neuter surgeries for their pet as part of King County Animal Care and Control's 2008 Spay Day USA activities.
Feb. 25, 2008
Tabulation continues, results posted
The King County Elections tabulation team counted 31,334 additional absentee ballots today.
Feb. 21, 2008
March 11 special election ballots in the mail
More than 118,000 absentee ballots were mailed yesterday to voters in the five following school districts. About 1,500 ballots were mailed to military, overseas and out of state voters on February 8.
Feb. 22, 2008
Results from fourth day of tabulation posted; counting to resume on Monday
The King County Elections tabulation team counted 23,262 additional absentee ballots today.
Feb. 21, 2008
Ballot counting wraps third day
The King County Elections tabulation team counted 21,670 additional absentee ballots and 214 poll ballots today.
Feb. 21, 2008
March 11 special election ballots in the mail
More than 118,000 absentee ballots were mailed yesterday to voters in the five following school districts. About 1,500 ballots were mailed to military, overseas and out of state voters on February 8.
Feb. 20, 2008
Metro proposing changes to east I-90 bus service, including new commuter route for North Bend
King County Metro Transit is considering a series of bus service revisions along the Interstate 90 corridor east of Issaquah affecting residents of North Bend, Snoqualmie, Snoqualmie Ridge, Fall City, Preston, Duthie Hill, Klahanie, and North Issaquah.
Feb. 20, 2008
Metro proposing new Kent East Hill bus service
Commuters in the Kent East Hill area are invited to comment on a new bus route being proposed by King County Metro Transit to provide more trips and a faster connection between their neighborhood and downtown Seattle.
Feb. 20, 2008
Election results posted, includes an abundance of "no party" ballots
King County Elections staff today added 50,475 additional ballots to the vote totals. Of this total, approximately 35,000 ballots represented ballots with no party oath selection and thus no votes for presidential candidate of either party. Votes for non-partisan ballot measures were counted.
Feb. 20, 2008
Transit Now partners help deliver even more new service for commuters
By splitting costs of new bus service with cities and other partners, King County Metro will add four new bus routes and more frequent trips on 25 existing routes in a first-of-its-kind partnership program approved by voters of the Transit Now Initiative. Riders will see an estimated 132,000 hours of new service phased in over the next six years.
Feb. 20, 2008
Household hazardous waste collection season starts Feb. 29 with Auburn visit of Wastemobile
King County residents can safely dispose of car batteries, oil and other household hazardous items when the King County Wastemobile kicks off its 19th year with a visit to the Auburn Super Mall, Feb. 29-Mar. 2.
Feb. 20, 2008
Exercise your green thumb in a garden plot; King County rents community garden space in Kent
Working in your own community garden plot can result in fresh produce and flowers all summer long, not to mention gardening's well-known stress reduction benefits.
Feb. 20, 2008
King County Annual Growth Report: Growing diversity in suburbs, shrinking middle class throughout county
The report, which first began publication in 1983, provides population, economic, and housing information on each of King County's 39 cities, as well as statistical profiles on potential annexation areas (PAAs) of unincorporated King County.
Feb. 20, 2008
Final numbers of the morning posted, 98.94 percent of precincts counted; King County media office closed
King County Elections' staff has posted the last batch of poll returns from 407 polling locations.
Feb. 19, 2008
Flower & Garden Show: Let King County's experts help you 'plant right for your site'
Stop by King County's educational booth at this year's Northwest Flower & Garden Show, Feb. 20-24, at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle, and learn how to plant right for your site this season.
Feb. 15, 2008
Sims says sustainable green-building ordinance benefits King County's taxpayers, environment
Taking steps to ensure King County reaps the benefits of 'green' construction and maintains its national leadership in the field, Executive Ron Sims is proposing a sustainability benchmark for all county construction projects that saves taxpayers money and helps save natural resources, too.
Feb. 14, 2008
King County Board of Health meeting on February 21
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Thursday, February 21, 2008, at 1:30 p.m.
Feb. 14, 2008
Public invited to participate in King County's Stormwater Management Program planning
King County residents can provide feedback on local stormwater management practices and learn more about planned updates to the county's stormwater management program at a public meeting set for Feb. 27 in Renton. The gathering is part of King County's ongoing commitment to protect public health and improve environmental conditions in Puget Sound and elsewhere.
Feb. 14, 2008
Sims named to board of organization with national and international climate change focus
King County's leadership in global warming reduction and adaptation has resulted in Executive Ron Sims being named to the board of directors of ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA.
Feb. 13, 2008
Make sure your vote counts in next week's election
Election Day is only one week away and King County Elections has the following reminders to make sure all voters have the information necessary for a successful Election Day.
Feb. 13, 2008
New Shoreline recycling and transfer station embodies King County's green building push
Shoreline area residents will soon drop off their garbage at arguably the most environmentally friendly recycling and solid waste facilities in the nation and a model for what King County hopes to accomplish in green building at all its facilities.
Feb. 12, 2008
Acquiring land on Enumclaw Plateau's Mt. Peak protects open space, enhances public access
Looming over the tabletop-flat Enumclaw Plateau, Mount Peak has long been a popular place for a peaceful - and aerobically invigorating - hike to the top.
Feb. 12, 2008
Infrastructure investments, environmental improvements top clean-water agency priorities in 2008
Restoring marine habitat, improving water quality in Puget Sound, protecting economic growth, and harnessing the resources created during the wastewater treatment process like natural gas, electricity and water for irrigation top King County Executive Ron Sims' priority list this year.
Feb. 12, 2008
A $1.25 million check to Auburn is first from annexation incentive fund
Auburn's mayor was presented a giant version of a $1.25 million check from King County today to help pay for expenses related to annexing 4,000 acres of land and 15,000 new residents from unincorporated King County. Auburn is the first city to receive money from the county's $10 million annexation incentive fund and also received $500,000 in road improvements.
Feb. 11, 2008
Closing gap for poor and communities of color is focus of Sims initiative
Poor children and people of color would be just as healthy, and grow up, graduate, and get jobs at the same rate as other children as part of the vision of a major King County initiative announced today.
Feb. 8, 2008
Find your new best friend
This weekend King County Animal Care and Control will partner with Reber Ranch to find homes for dozens of dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens.
Feb. 7, 2008
Sewer improvement project gets under way near Alki Beach Park
Park users and water enthusiasts can look forward to safer beaches and a healthier Puget Sound as King County begins a sewer improvement project at its 53rd Street Pump Station.
Feb. 6, 2008
King County farmers would get new flood protection with task force proposals
Farmers on highly productive King County agricultural lands would get additional protection for their livestock and farm supplies while ensuring continued flood protection and preservation of ecologically valuable river habitat through proposals contained in a new report.
Feb. 6, 2008
Mayor Marchione is nominated for Sound Transit Board
Redmond Mayor John Marchione was nominated today to the Sound Transit Board, completing King County's appointments to the board for 2008. Eighteen individuals are charged with the responsibility for governing Sound Transit, ten of whom are from King County.
Feb. 6, 2008
Countywide vote by mail delayed until 2009
In order to protect the integrity of King County elections, the County is postponing the transition to all-mail voting until 2009. The equipment needed for all mail voting has not yet received required federal certification. However, other components will be phased-in this year in anticipation of all-mail voting in 2009.
Feb. 6, 2008
Transit Now marks first anniversary by rolling out new routes and more service
Bus riders will see more than 16,000 new transit service hours, including two new Metro routes on the Eastside, beginning this Saturday. It marks the latest rollout of service from the voter approved Transit Now initiative, which is designed to attract 50,000 additional daily bus riders by 2016.
Feb. 5, 2008
Meeting on King County's Stormwater Management Program planning is postponed
King County is postponing a Feb. 13 public meeting intended to receive feedback on local stormwater management practices and provide information about planned updates to the county's stormwater management program.
Feb. 5, 2008
Black leaders in HIV prevention take message to the streets
Local Black leaders in HIV prevention will be at high traffic intersections in Seattle this Thursday, talking with people to create greater awareness and help prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS in the African American community. This outreach is part of a national effort on February 7th to raise awareness through National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness and Information Day.
Feb. 5, 2008
Business not as usual: New video helps local businesses and agencies prepare for pandemic flu
Pandemic flu may be out of the headlines, but a new video will help businesses, government agencies and community-based organizations prepare for the ongoing threat of what could be a catastrophic, world-wide event.
Feb. 5, 2008
Brief closure at King County's Dockton Park docks as state works to eradicate invasive marine species
They've got a funny name, but no one is laughing about the discovery of invasive sea squirts at King County's Dockton Park.
Feb. 1, 2008
King County issues emergency proclamation to help residents; opens door for rapid response to heavy snowfall
King County Executive Ron Sims has issued an emergency proclamation to enable county departments to respond even more quickly to the ongoing heavy snowfall in the Skykomish area. The proclamation allows departments to waive normal contracting procedures and budgetary limits to speed up assistance.
Feb. 1, 2008
Plan Dockton Road future
The King County Road Services Division is seeking applicants for a community advisory group that will provide input to the county about the upcoming Dockton Road preservation project on Vashon Island.
Jan. 31, 2008
Roof collapse forces closure of King County Solid Waste Division's Skykomish Drop Box
Heavy snow caused the collapse of a roof at King County Solid Waste Division's Skykomish disposal site this afternoon, forcing the indefinite closure of the Skykomish Drop Box.
Jan. 31, 2008
Patients gain local treatment information with new Community Checkup report
The inaugural Puget Sound Health Alliance report finds healthcare stakeholders and patients all have a role in improving health care quality and affordability.
Jan. 30, 2008
Public invited to participate in King County's Stormwater Management Program planning
King County residents can provide feedback on local stormwater management practices and learn more about planned updates to the county's stormwater management program at a public meeting set for Feb. 13 in Renton.
Jan. 30. 2008
King County's presidential primary ballots in the mail
More than 630,000 ballots featuring the 16 presidential candidates and several important local ballot measures were mailed today to absentee voters.
Jan. 29, 2008
King County saves $13 million by refinancing bonds
Thanks to its exemplary bond ratings, King County recently took advantage of lower interest rates to reduce capital borrowing costs that will ultimately save sewer ratepayers $13 million in 2008 dollars. These savings will help offset the increases in future sewer rates needed to finance the construction of the new Brightwater treatment plant and conveyance systems.
Jan. 29, 2008
King County's Master Recycler Composter training program returns to Federal Way
While some people might only see "garbage" in the everyday items they throw away, King County's Solid Waste Division sees a tremendous opportunity to create resources, while reducing the volume of material headed to the landfill.
Jan. 29, 2008
County's new hybrid truck delivers on two fronts
With just 7,300 miles on its odometer, one of King County's newest work trucks is already proving its worth. It may look like other trucks that are used to hoist workers into the air to repair traffic signals or maintain roadside trees - but this one is the first that runs on a hybrid-electric system.
Jan. 28, 2008
Snow showers, cold weather add up to week of unpredictable travel in King County
Nasty and unpredictable--two words that just about sum up what travel in King County has been like these past few days.
Jan. 28, 2008
Oversight panel will improve security at Courthouse and County agencies
The personal safety of people who visit or work in the King County Courthouse and other County agencies in downtown Seattle will be the subject of scrutiny by a new security oversight panel created today by the Metropolitan King County Council.
Jan. 28, 2008
Dunn applauds 'Donut Hole' decision
King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn today praised County Executive Ron Sims for his decision to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) on the County-owned property Maple Valley known as the "Donut Hole." Dunn also called on the Executive to make the City of Maple Valley a formal part of the RFP process.
Jan. 28, 2008
Sheriff's Blue Ribbon panel cites progress in implementing reforms
The King County Sheriff's Blue Ribbon Panel, established to make recommendations for improving the operations and accountability of the King County Sheriff's Office, today reported on the progress made by King County in implementing its initial recommendations and offered four new proposals for consideration by the County Council, County Executive and the King County Charter Review Commission.
Jan. 28, 2008
King County ratepayers save $13 million through refinancing of bonds
The Metropolitan King County Council today took advantage of the County's strong bond rating and lower interest rates by unanimously approving the refinancing of $237 million in sewer revenue bonds, saving ratepayers $13 million in 2008 dollars. The savings reduces the County's annual debt service payments by $1.97 million per year until 2016.
Jan. 25, 2008
King County 9-1-1 chosen for national pilot program
King County's Enhanced 9-1-1 System has been selected by the U.S. Department of Transportation as one of five 9-1-1 centers nationally to participate in a pilot project of Next Generation 9-1-1. This new system would allow 9-1-1 centers to accept emergency calls via text, data, and video. The Next Generation pilot project is expected to begin in April, 2008 and will last approximately three to six months, however full implementation of such a system is still at least two years away.
Jan. 23, 2008
Metro estimates biggest ridership gain in 10 years
King County Metro Transit bus ridership increased a record-setting 7 percent last year with an estimated 110 million passenger boardings in 2007. It surpasses the 103.2-million mark set in 2006. Metro vanpool and vanshare programs also saw record ridership last year.
Jan. 22, 2008
Proposed statewide medicine take-back bill would protect people and environment
Legislation recently introduced in Olympia would establish a statewide program that could result in the collection and safe disposal of an estimated 66,000 pounds of expired and unwanted medicine each year across Washington.
Jan. 18, 2008
King County's investment pool's rating temporarily suspended by S&P: Rating action does not affect county's bond rating
Standard & Poor's announced that King County's investment pool rating will be temporarily suspended as the pool continues to seek recovery solutions on four impaired commercial paper investments that comprise five percent of the pool's assets. Additionally, S&P has confirmed that this rating action will have no impact on King County's exemplary AAA bond rating.
Jan. 17, 2008
Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration
King County held its 21st Annual King County Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, during the noon hour on Thursday, January 17, 2008. Over 600 people attended this event at the Paramount Theatre in downtown Seattle.
Jan. 16, 2008
King County's Native Plant Salvage Program seeks volunteers for habitat restoration
Rather than allowing native plants and vegetation to be wasted during land-clearing activities, King County enlists community volunteers to help salvage valuable trees and shrubs from areas slated for construction, then replants them at restoration sites.
Jan. 16, 2008
Partnership will lead to mountain bike course at King County's Duthie Hill Park
A public mountain bike skills course is being planned for King County's Duthie Hill Park on the Sammamish Plateau, thanks to a unique partnership between King County Parks and the Backcountry Bicycle Trails Club (BBTC).
Jan. 16, 2008
State grant through Puget Sound Initiative helps King County businesses eliminate pollution
Small business in King County can receive free technical expertise to help them control and prevent pollution through new grant funding from the Washington State Department of Ecology and the Puget Sound Partnership.
Jan. 15, 2008
King County Civil Rights Commission announces student essay contest winners
On January 17, 2008, three local students will be honored for their winning submissions to the King County Civil Right Commission's Eighth Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Writing Contest Award for the best student essays on Dr. King's work.
Jan. 14, 2008
Snow showers, falling temperatures bringing hazardous travel conditions to some areas of King County
Periodic snow squalls combined with falling temperatures are bringing out the King County road crews this evening, especially in the higher plateau areas of the county. With temperatures projected to continue to drop overnight, motorists all across the county should be prepared for slick winter driving as they head out for the morning commute.
Jan. 14, 2008
Snow, ice may affect bus service (external link)
King County Metro Transit is advising passengers that snowy, icy roads could affect bus travel on Tuesday morning. Overnight freezing temperatures are expected, and snow and rain that fell across King County Monday evening may contribute to treacherous driving conditions on Tuesday.
Jan. 14, 2008
Inmate dies while in custody
An inmate in the custody of the King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention died Saturday, Jan. 12, at the University of Washington Medical Center at 10:22 p.m. The person, an adult male, was booked into the King County Correctional Facility on Dec. 28, and was transferred to the University of Washington Medical Center on Jan. 2, where he remained until his death.
Jan. 11, 2008
Service alert: Vashon Island and Fauntleroy bus routes
Starting Monday morning, Jan. 14, temporarily decreased ferry service between Vashon Island and Fauntleroy may result in passenger overloads or bus service delays on King County Metro Transit Routes 54, 116, 118, or 119.
Jan. 11, 2008
King County water quality protection gets $3.3 million boost from state Ecology grants
King County's efforts to improve water quality through stormwater management are getting a big shot in the arm with more than $3.3 million in new grants from the Washington State Department of Ecology.
Jan. 10, 2008
King County offers grant funding for small habitat restoration projects
For more than a dozen years, King County's Small Habitat Restoration Program has been providing funding to design, permit and construct small habitat restoration and drainage projects in and around streams and wetlands throughout unincorporated King County.
Jan. 10, 2008
Pre-tax transit passes are like a 'free' raise
If you take public transit to work, your company can help you save 20 to 40 percent of your fare--and it won't cost your boss a dime.
Jan. 8, 2008
Sims shares King County's plans to support Puget Sound Partnership
Even as the public awaits an overall Puget Sound Partnership (PSP) action plan due this fall, King County is aggressively integrating its long-standing efforts to restore and protect Puget Sound so that they work hand in hand with the new state agency.
Jan. 8, 2008
Executive Ron Sims reaction to The Storm announcement
As a Storm fan and an elected leader, this is great news for our community, the region and Storm team members. I am thankful to the Force 10 Hoops ownership group that stepped forward to keep the team in its hometown. Women in our community have worked hard to nurture and grow this team into a national champion and an irreplaceable civic amenity. Now they have formed a local ownership group that will keep the team in Seattle where it belongs. Hats off to Anne Levinson, Lisa Brummel, Dawn Trudeau and Ginny Gilder, the franchise's new owners. I couldn't be happier to hear the Storm is staying in its home.
Jan. 8, 2008
King County District Court selected as finalist for 2008 Washington Software Technology Association Industry Achievement Award
King County today announced that King County District Court has been named a finalist in the 2008 WSA technology innovators prestigious Industry Achievement Awards (IAA) program under the category of "Best Use of Technology in the Government, Non-Profit or Education Sector."
Jan. 4, 2008
Metro Transit looking for feedback on Eastside RapidRide plans
King County Metro Transit is hosting several gatherings to solicit community ideas as it works in partnership with the cities of Bellevue and Redmond to design new RapidRide bus service connecting the two downtown cores.
Jan. 4, 2008
Metro looking for feedback on West Seattle RapidRide
King County Metro Transit is hosting several gatherings to solicit community ideas as it works in coordination with the City of Seattle to design new RapidRide bus service connecting West Seattle and downtown Seattle.
Jan. 4, 2008
Disaster Recovery Center closes in King County
Recovery efforts from December's flooding continue in King County, but residents are urged to apply for help now. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials announced today that the Disaster Recovery Center currently located at North Seattle Community College will transition to a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Center from Monday, Jan. 7 through Thursday, January 17, 2008. This transition is the next step in the recovery process, but federal aid is still available for those in need.
Jan. 4, 2008
King County Noxious Weed Board meets Jan. 16 to discuss weed control list
Knowing which weeds will crop up to cause headaches for King County landowners is anybody's guess, but it's a sure thing that the county's noxious weed list is about to have a growth spurt.
Jan. 4, 2008
King County protects open space, habitat while housing density increases in urban core
King County open space and habitat will be preserved, while housing density will increase at a new development in downtown Seattle through the latest transaction using King County's Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) Program.