Food Policy Council

In September, the King County Council will consider legislation I sponsored, which will establish a regional Food Policy Council. We are fortunate in King County to have thriving urban and rural areas, where local farmers can help supply the many residents with produce, honey, homemade breads, meats and cheeses. On the other hand, the cost of food is increasing, and more people are utilizing food banks or going without the nutrition they need. The Food Policy Council will assist the county and cities in developing policies to address challenges related to food and help boost our efforts to solve these problems locally. For more information about the membership and goals of the Food Policy Council, view the legislation.

Metro Bus Challenges - Keeping You Informed

In early August, Executive Ron Sims announced that the combination of low sales tax revenue and high fuel prices have contributed to a larger than anticipated shortfall in Metro’s budget. I am working hard to ensure that during this time of unprecedented ridership that they continue to maintain service. Currently, no solution to the shortfall has been finalized, but I am working with Metro and my colleagues on the King County Council to develop a long-term strategy to continue to deliver safe, reliable and direct service.

King County Animal Shelters

Both short and long term solutions have been proposed in order to address the crisis occurring in our animal shelters. The Council and Executive have provided funding to provide immediate relief for overcrowding, lack of spay/neuters, and untreated medical conditions. This summer, King County Animal Care and Control will undergo a strategic planning process, at the direction of the King County Council and the Executive. In September, the Council will make a decision about what the county’s role in animal sheltering services will be.

Visit Amanda and all the other animals waiting to be adopted at the Kent Shelter, located at 21615 - 64th Avenue South in Kent. From I-5: Take the South 188th and Orillia Road exit and proceed east into the Kent Valley. Turn right onto 64th Avenue South. Hours: Monday - Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10:00 - 6:00, Thursday: Noon - 6:00 p.m.