Showing posts with label county council. Show all posts
Showing posts with label county council. Show all posts

Preserving, renovating, and building veterans and heritage facilities in Shoreline and Kenmore

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

King County Councilmember
Rod Dembowski
King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski secures Building for Culture grants 

Projects in Shoreline and Kenmore will receive funding to help build, maintain, and preserve arts, heritage, and cultural facilities in these communities.

“This was a unique opportunity to make game-changing investments in our arts and heritage organizations,” said Metropolitan King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski. 
“Building for Culture dollars will make possible long desired capital investments in the Shoreline Historical Museum, fund completion of the Shoreline Veterans Memorial, help preserve the Richmond Masonic Center, and continue renovation of the Kenmore Community Club.
"These organizations have a tremendous impact on our community, and these grants will ensure they continue to serve our residents for years to come.”

Rod Dembowski and Dwight Stevens, Chair of the Shoreline Veterans Association, at the construction of the Shoreline Veterans Memorial Plaza, outside of Shoreline City Hall.


The funding to build, maintain, expand, preserve, and improve new and existing cultural facilities was allocated from the Building for Culture program and was unanimously approved by the County Council. Building for Culture is a partnership between King County and 4Culture, King County’s cultural services agency, using bonds backed by the hotel-motel tax.

“Thanks to Councilmember Dembowski’s continued advocacy, we are able to complete the Shoreline Veterans Memorial,” said Dwight Stevens, WWII Veteran and Chair of the Shoreline Veterans Association.  
“The late Frank Moll and I conceived the idea for the Shoreline Veterans Memorial six years ago, as a way to honor the men and women who have served our country. It’s heartening to know that the $20,000 grant from King County will make this dream a reality.”

Dembowski has secured a total of $40,000 in County funding for the Shoreline Veterans Memorial. 

Shoreline Historical Museum expansion plans
“The Shoreline Historical Museum is thrilled to receive a $250,000 grant – about 25 percent of our construction project budget – from King County,” said Vicki Stiles, Executive Director of the Shoreline Historical Museum. 

“We thank Councilmember Rod Dembowski for supporting this critical funding. Our new building will allow us to continue our mission of preserving, recording, and interpreting the rich heritage of the Shoreline area.”

In addition to the funds supporting projects in District 1, Councilmember Dembowski worked to ensure a $200,000 grant for Seattle Repertory Theatre was included in the final project list.

“I would like to extend my appreciation to Councilmember Rod Dembowski and the entire County Council for their support of Seattle Repertory Theatre,” said Jeffrey Herrmann, Managing Director of Seattle Repertory Theatre. “The funds will go to needed renovations, that all of King County will be able to enjoy.”

Richmond Masonic Lodge in Shoreline
will receive funds for renovation
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The facilities receiving funding in District 1 are:

Agency/Government/Organization
Project
Grant Award
City of Shoreline Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services
Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza
$20,000
Kenmore Community Club
2016 Kenmore Community Club Interior Rehabilitation
$10,000
Richmond Masonic Center Association
Foundation and Kitchen Renovation
$14,000
Shoreline Historical Museum
New Collections Facility and Research Center
$250,000

The bonds supporting these projects are made possible by early retirement of the Kingdome debt. State law requires that hotel-motel tax revenues King County collects this year after repayment of the Kingdome debt be directed to arts and cultural programs.



Read more...

County Council approves funding to address untested rape kits

Monday, September 14, 2015

The Metropolitan King County Council Monday gave its unanimous approval to provide $200,000 in funding for sexual assault experts in the King County Sheriff’s office to identify the exact number of untested rape kits that remain in King County, prioritize those cases for testing, and submit them to the State Patrol Crime Laboratory for processing.

“This is the right thing to do, and as we’ve seen across the country, this work often results in arrests and convictions of serial rapists and other criminals,” said Councilmember Rod Dembowski, the prime sponsor of the legislation. “It sends a clear message to victims of sexual assault – you matter, what happened to you matters, and we take your case seriously.”

Rape kits are intended for use immediately after a sexual assault has occurred, but once the evidence has been collected, it can sit in storage for years. Across the country, thousands of rape kits – DNA evidence collected by a health care professional after a sexual assault – go untested each year. In jurisdictions like New York City, Dallas and Tacoma, the analysis of previously untested rape kits has led to the identification of new offenders, linking of serial cases, and exoneration of the wrongly convicted.

This year, the Washington State Legislature passed House Bill 1068, requiring all new rape kits to be submitted for testing to the Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory within 30 days of being collected by law enforcement.

“The goal of this law is two-fold: justice for the victims whose lives were dramatically impacted by sexual violence, and help for law enforcement to catch serial rapists before they strike again,” said Rep. Tina Orwall, sponsor of House Bill 1068.


Read more...

County Council President to join world leaders in discussing climate challenges

Monday, August 24, 2015

U.N. conference to focus on actions needed to combat climate change

Metropolitan King County Council Chair Larry Phillips will represent King County and the United States at a United Nations conference on the global effort to reduce the impact of climate change. Phillips will be part of a delegation from 12 U.S. cities that have been recognized for their work at the local level.

“I look forward to sharing King County’s Strategic Climate Action Plan with the American delegation and world leaders on climate change, and to learn from other jurisdictions about their critical work combatting climate pollution,” said Phillips. “I am honored to attend as a delegate and to urge support for a global climate agreement, a critical step for governments around the world to reduce our carbon footprint.”

The coalition of U.S. mayors, city and county officials announced today that they will join the UN Conference of Parties (COP) meeting in Paris in December. The conference will be an opportunity for Phillips and the other U.S. delegates to showcase their jurisdiction’s climate leadership and call for an ambitious international agreement that addresses our climate crisis and supports further action at the local level.

Phillips will represent King County as part of the “Local Climate Leaders Circle,” which also includes representatives from the cities of Atlanta, Boulder, Chula Vista, Columbus, Des Moines, Grand Rapids, Oakland, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, West Palm Beach, and Santa Monica. The Leaders Circle—which is  coordinated in partnership by World Wildlife Fund (WWF), ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability, National League of Cities, and U.S. Green Building Council in association with the Compact of Mayors and C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group—works alongside city officials from across the United States to advance local climate goals.

The partners work closely on a range of efforts including updating measurements of their greenhouse gas emissions, preparing local projects to better access needed financing, engaging citizens on climate action, and meeting with high-level representatives from the U.S. government and international community to advance a climate accord that benefits city action, recognizing that the most ambitious local goals can only be achieved alongside an enabling national and international framework.



Read more...

Executive Constantine's Best Starts for Kids initiative placed on November ballot

Thursday, July 23, 2015

King County Executive Dow Constantine thanked the Metropolitan King County Council for voting 8-1 to place his Best Starts for Kids initiative on the Nov. 3, 2015 ballot.

The proposed six-year levy would provide funding for prevention and early intervention programs designed to increase the number of King County children and youth who reach adulthood healthy and ready to contribute to the region's prosperity.

Executive Constantine said, "Thanks to today's action by Councilmembers, voters will have the option to invest earlier in the development of our children and youth, when we have the greatest chance to help them reach their full potential. 
"Best Starts for Kids is how we will transform the way we invest in our next generation, to finally provide the upstream solutions that prevent negative outcomes such as mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, homelessness, and incarceration. By making the latest research and tools available to every parent and caregiver in our community, we will be able to produce the talented, creative and motivated workforce we need to remain a prosperous region.



Read more...

County Council unanimously approves new priorities for assisting children and youth

Thursday, June 18, 2015

Rod Dembowski
The Metropolitan King County Council gave its unanimous support to the Youth Action Plan (YAP), a new set of priorities that will guide and inform the County's annual investment in programs and services for children and youth, from infants to 24-year olds.

“Kids should be empowered to achieve their full potential, not be held back by circumstances out of their control,” said Councilmember Rod Dembowski, who sponsored the legislation calling for the creation of a Youth Action Plan. 
“The Youth Action Plan represents the best thinking of children and youth advocates countywide to ensure that all kids in King County can achieve their full potential. The plan provides a blueprint to reform how we invest in kids at King County, and lights the path for potential new investments of resources to achieve the plan's vision for our kids.”  
The Council initiated the development of the YAP, with the goal of ensuring that King County’s Strategic Plan objective to “promote opportunities for all communities and individuals to realize their full potential,” is applied to the County’s children and youth and reflected across all County departments, programs, and initiatives. The goal of the YAP is to set the County’s priorities for an accountable, integrated delivery system of services to achieve the best outcomes for children, families, youth and young adults.

Development of the YAP was completed by an appointed task force of twenty-five experts representing a broad range of organizations and entities with substantial expertise and knowledge relevant to children and youth. Community input was collected through five community conversations held across the county, and through a survey of more than 1,000 youth. The nine recommendations contained in the YAP are the culmination of the task force’s work over the last year.

The recommendations in the Plan include:

  • Apply social justice and equity principles to our children and youth policies
  • Strengthen and stabilize families, children, youth, and young adults
  • Stop the School to Prison Pipeline
  • Break down barriers between government, non-profits, and other providers of services
  • Use data to measure program efficacy and to make investment decisions
  • Invest early, invest often, and invest in outcomes
  • Increase accountability and oversight 

As noted in Executive Constantine’s 2014 budget address, the Youth Action Plan inspired the discussion and development of a potential funding mechanism known as Best Starts for Kids (BSK). The visions of the YAP and BSK are aligned, and the YAP’s recommendations provide the guidance and framework for addressing the allocation of additional revenue.

“The Youth Action Plan is a central feature of Best Starts for Kids, which is why I'm so pleased by the Council’s unanimous support,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. “We are focused on what works—a scientific, evidence-based approach. The Youth Action Plan sets the direction. Best Starts for Kids, our six-year levy, will make it possible to fulfill that promise.”



Read more...

Metropolitan King County Council Monday, March 2

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

At the Metropolitan King County Council Monday, March 2, 2015, Councilmembers:

  • Approved an ordinance providing for the submission to voters in April a proposition authorizing a property tax levy for the capitol transition and financing cost for the Puget Sound emergency radio network project (Ordinance 2015-0016).
  • Approved a motion adopting the King County Vision, Mission, Guiding Principles, Goals and Strategic Innovation Priorities (Motion 2014‑0415).
  • Adopted a motion confirming the executive's appointment of Lorinda Youngcourt as King County Public Defender (Motion 2015-0001). 
  • Approved an ordinance establishing the position of deputy director of the department of elections and designating the position as a key subordinate unit requiring council confirmation of appointments to the position (Ordinance 2014-0441). 
  • Adopted a motion relating to the King County Metro Strategic Plan for Public Transportation 2011‑2021 and the King County Metro Service Guidelines, and accepting the King County Metro Access to Transit Phase 1 Report (Substitute Motion 2015-0032.2).


Read more...

County Council proclaims See Blue Week - expands “Blue Friday” for countdown to Super Bowl

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

The members of the Metropolitan King County Council are looking for a “Sea of Blue” after declaring the week of January 26 - February 1 as "See Blue Week" in support of the Seattle Seahawks as they prepare to defend their Super Bowl title. 

“From the fronts of our Metro buses to the tops of the cranes across our skyline, the support and civic pride our region has for our Seahawks is impossible to miss” said Councilmember Rod Dembowski. 
“For the second year in a row it is remarkable to watch our county come together behind one of the most unique and talented sports franchises in the nation. Even for the casual sport fan, it is hard not to get caught up in the excitement and emotion of a second straight Super Bowl run. Go Hawks!”

This expansion of "Blue Friday" recognizes the impact of the “12s” support during this championship season and most notably during the historic comeback during the NFL Championship.


This action asks Seattle Seahawks fans from everywhere to show their support by wearing blue during the Super Bowl "countdown" week.

WHEREAS, our beloved Seattle Seahawks have carried the day in taking us to a second consecutive Super Bowl, Super Bowl XLIX; and

WHEREAS, the “12th Man” will be at the University of Phoenix Stadium in force and spirit; and

WHEREAS, because a “Sea of Blue” helped the Hawks prevail against the Green Bay Packers leading to this Super Bowl moment; and

WHEREAS, the fans have shown our pride of the Seahawks through “Blue Fridays” and the power of “Blue;” and
               
WHEREAS, we want our Seahawks to feel not only the seismic force of the “12” but to also see a sea of blue throughout the region for the week leading up to Super Bowl XLIX

NOW, THEREFORE, we, the King County Executive and Metropolitan King County Council, proclaim, January 26-February 1, 2015 as

“See Blue Week”

So that the nation will witness a “sea of blue” and the force of the fans on Super Bowl Sunday 2015.


Read more...

County Council approves Transportation Benefit District

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

The Metropolitan King County Council Monday gave its unanimous approval to the formation of a Transportation Benefit District (TBD)—a separate taxing district that has the authority to generate revenue for transit, roads and other transportation projects.

“I appreciate the unanimous approval of this critical legislation by my colleagues.  It will allow us to ask the voters to make necessary investments in our transit and road systems,” said Councilmember Rod Dembowski, chair of the Council’s Transportation, Economy and Environment Committee, and author of the ordinance creating the District. 
“As we move forward, I am committed to ensuring that the TBD uses the authority granted by law for rebates of vehicle license fees to low-income taxpayers to ensure that any funding measure is as progressive in nature as possible.”

The Transportation Benefit District is similar in structure to the King County Ferry District and King County Flood Control District, with the members of the County Council acting as the TBD Board. The TBD will have the the authority to acquire, construct, improve, provide and fund transportation improvements identified in the transportation plan of the Puget Sound Regional Council, the county or a city within the County.

“With formation of a countywide Transportation Benefit District, King County now has a potential tool for funding preservation of Metro Transit service and maintenance of local roads and transportation infrastructure,” said Council Chair Larry Phillips. “Without new revenue, King County faces transit service cuts of up to 17 percent and at least a $50 million annual gap for the maintenance of county roads.”

The Transportation Benefit District will be able to consider funding options and determine whether to propose sending a measure to raise revenue for the district to county voters.


Read more...

County Council will televise panel opposing coal trains

Sunday, September 1, 2013


The Metropolitan King County Council’s Transportation, Economy and Environment (TrEE) Committee will receive a briefing on a motion opposing new coal terminals in Washington and Oregon

Tuesday, September 3, 2013, 9:30am, County Council Chambers,  King County Courthouse, 10th floor

The meeting will be carried LIVE on King County TV, seen on Comcast and Wave Cable Channel 22 or online at the King County website.

The motion that will be considered by the committee would express the Council’s opposition to the establishment of new coal export terminals in Washington and Oregon. The motion also calls for a broad approach to the environmental review of proposed coal terminals, including an analysis of the negative impacts to local air, water, public health, transportation, and economy from the coal trains used to transport the coal.  It also calls for a look at the global environmental impacts resulting from the greenhouse gas emissions emitted by burning the coal, its ultimate end use.

The motion would also express the Council’s intent to include in its federal legislative agenda a request to the United States Department of the Interior for a moratorium on new and expanded coal leases in the Powder River basin pending a review of federal coal leasing practices.

The discussion on the proposal will include panel members: 
  • Ross Macfarlane, Senior Advisor, Climate Solutions
  • Becky Kelly, Deputy Director, Washington Environmental Council

Read more about this legislation - Type in “2013-0386”



Read more...

Overflow audience at County Council calls for preservation of Metro service

Wednesday, May 15, 2013


The audience who came to Tuesday’s meeting of the Metropolitan King County Council’s Transportation, Economy and Environment Committee sent a clear message: the impact of a reduction in Metro Transit service will be felt throughout the region and should not be allowed to happen.

More than 350 people filled the Sound Transit Boardroom and the hall at Union Station to call on the Council and the State Legislature to find the funding needed to keep the transit system at its current levels. Hundreds of comments—in person, via comment sheets, and on line—were received during the meeting, with the overwhelming majority calling for maintaining current transit service.

“Today's public meeting displayed the broad coalition of supporters advocating for permanent and stable funding for our transit system,” said Councilmember Rod Dembowski. “As Chair of the Regional Transit Committee, I am working with this coalition to avoid gridlock, keep people and goods moving, and our regional economy growing.”

Due to a lack of sustainable revenue, Metro is facing the potential loss of 600,000 hours of transit service. Absent action from the legislature, King County will begin seeking input this fall on how to cut 17 percent of Metro’s transit service starting in 2014.

Prior to the public testimony, committee members heard from a panel composed of transit stakeholders from the business, environment, social services, and education sectors, who spoke about the impact a 17 percent cut in transit service could have on the region.

“We are at a crossroads. As demand continues to increase and the economy improves, we should be increasing service and providing more transportation choices,” said Metro Transit General Manager Kevin Desmond. “However, unless we obtain new funding, we will put plans in place this fall to begin reducing service in 2014.”

The testimony from the more than 160 people at the 3-hour meeting focused on the long-term effect the potential cuts would have on their lives.

“Transit is how students get to class, get to the jobs that pay their tuition.  It is how they connect to their community as volunteers, advocates, and participants in civic life,” said Josh Kavanagh, the University of Washington’s Director of Transportation.  “Allowing our transit network to be dismantled will place yet one more barrier on the path to prosperity for students and for all our fellow citizens–at a time when we should be clearing that path to encourage and support economic recovery.”

Read more...

Slowing the revolving door: Report shows mental illness and drug programs reducing jail, psychiatric stays

Sunday, May 12, 2013

King County Council accepts annual report on mental illness and drug dependency funding

Successes in treating those battling mental illness and drug dependency are being seen in the lives of the people who are living healthier, safer and more stable lives, and by the data that shows them staying out of jails and crisis services. The Metropolitan King County Council today accepted the Mental Illness and Drug Dependency Fifth Annual Report, which includes information on programs that served more than 30,000 people 2012 through programs supported by Mental Illness and Drug Dependency (MIDD) funds.

“This report shows that the investment in our mental health and chemical dependency programs have paid dividends in the form of reduced jail time and psychiatric hospital stays,” said Councilmember Rod Dembowski, prime sponsor of the motion. “These smart investments save taxpayers money and are a compassionate response to those in need of help.”

In 2005, the Washington state Legislature authorized counties to implement a one-tenth of one percent sales and use tax to support new or expanded chemical dependency or mental health treatment programs and services and for the operation of new or expanded therapeutic court programs and services.

King County became one of 19 counties in the state to take advantage of MIDD funding in 2007, using the tax revenue to fund a range of programs and services to prevent and reduce unnecessary involvement with criminal justice and emergency medical systems and promote recovery for persons with mental illness and chemical dependency.

“The programs and services funded by the MIDD tax have helped us to divert people who had been frequent users of jail cells and hospital beds into alternatives that are less expensive and more effective,” said Dan Satterberg, King County Prosecuting Attorney and co-chair of the MIDD Oversight Committee.

“King County took the necessary steps to implement the MIDD at a time when the economic downturn threatened to completely shred the established safety net,” said Mike Heinisch, Executive Director of Kent Youth and Family Services and co-chair of the MIDD Oversight Committee. “The individual recoveries facilitated by the MIDD strategies are of more value in regenerated and contributing human capital than the many dollars saved in unnecessary involvement in criminal justice and emergency systems, dollars which in and of themselves are considerable.”

The report shows significant success during the past year. Among the highlights of the report:
  • Approximately 32,112 individuals (20,150 adults and 11,962 children/youth) were served, up from 30,704 served in 2011.
  • Of the total served, 955 were current or former members of the U.S. military.
  • Average days in jail were reduced in ten strategies aimed at reducing jail time, by as much as 56 percent.
  • Average days in community inpatient psychiatric hospitals decreased by 48 percent for a sample of people in MIDD services.
  • Of participants in mental health treatment, 884 of 1.044 – 85 percent – showed improvement in symptoms of anxiety and depression.
  • School-based suicide prevention trainings reached 6,774 high school-aged youth and 1,355 middle school youth, in addition to training for adults on the warming signs for suicide.
Another highlight was the opening of the Crisis Solutions Center last summer in Seattle, operated by Downtown Emergency Services Center. The Solutions Center serves as a diversion site for local law enforcement and other first responders to provide an alternative to jail, when appropriate, for persons in crisis due to mental illness or substance use. The center provides assessment and stabilization services and linkages to community treatment.

“People with mental illnesses and chemical dependency are breaking the cycle of arrests and emergency room visits while gaining a clear path to recovery thanks to our investments in programs that make treatment possible,” said County Executive Dow Constantine.

While the original state legislation did not allow the one-tenth of one percent sales tax revenues to be used for existing programs, subsequent changes to the law by the State Legislature currently allow counties to use a portion of the funds to support existing mental health, substance abuse and therapeutic court services, making it possible to sustain programs through the recession.


Read more...

Colleagues recognize, say goodbye to Councilmember Bob Ferguson

Monday, January 14, 2013

Bob Ferguson
State’s new Attorney General leaves County Council after 9 years in office

The members of the Metropolitan King County Council today recognized Councilmember Bob Ferguson for his work as a member of the County Council and wished him well as he prepares to take the oath as Washington’s Attorney General.

“It has been an honor to work with Bob Ferguson for the last 9 years,” said Council Chair Larry Gossett. “All of the people of the state of Washington will now benefit from the energy and intelligence we have seen during his time on the Council.”
“Our State will benefit from his determined spirit, sharp intellect and his razor-like focus,” said Council Vice Chair Jane Hague. “Thanks for your years of hard work on behalf of King County residents.”

Ferguson, who joined the Council in 2004, will be sworn in as Attorney General Wednesday, January 16.

During his time on the Council, Ferguson served as Council Chair in 2010 and as chair of the Council’s 2007 Budget Committee, crafted King County’s 2008 Budget. He was also the prime sponsor of the legislation that became the Veterans and Human Services Levy adopted by voters in 2005 and renewed in 2011.

“Bob Ferguson was been a strong voice for the people of King County as a member of the county council, and with his deep sense of justice will be a great asset to the people of Washington as our next Attorney General,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips. “For the past nine years I have enjoyed partnering with Bob on a number of critical initiatives, particularly in the areas of fiscal oversight, government reform, and historic preservation, and I look forward to working with him as a state leader.”

“It was a pleasure to serve with Bob on the budget committee, even as the Council negotiated some difficult decisions during the economic recession,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert. “We will miss his input on local budget and criminal justice issues as he transitions to a statewide role.”

“It was a pleasure to serve on the Council with such a thoughtful public servant,” said Councilmember Reagan Dunn. “I wish him all the best in his new position in Olympia and I have no doubts he will serve the citizens of our state well.”

“Mr. Ferguson has shown great leadership and a commitment to our county’s most vulnerable,” said Councilmember Joe McDermott. “Bob has worked tirelessly to advocate for victims of crimes and our veterans. Today is a loss for King County government, but a win for our state.”

“Bob takes to Olympia a wonderful understanding of local government and will work well with county prosecutors throughout our state,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer.

As chair of the Council’s Law, Justice and Human Services Committee in 2006, Ferguson worked on legislation to implement independent oversight of the King County Sheriff’s Office. Those reforms lead to the creation of Office of Law Enforcement Oversight, an independent agency responsible for monitoring investigations of misconduct, helping to resolve cases, increasing public trust and transparency, and identifying systemic issues and reforms within the Sheriff’s Office.

“Councilmember Ferguson’s achievements on the King County Council will have a positive lasting impact for all residents of King County, and it has been a pleasure working with him over the years,” said Council Vice Chair Julia Patterson. “If he serves as Attorney General only a portion as well as he did in King County, I know Washington State will benefit tremendously from his service.”


Read more...

Executive names citizen panel to evaluate applicants for King County Council vacancy

Saturday, December 8, 2012

King County Executive Dow Constantine named a 13-member panel on Friday to help evaluate applicants for appointment to the seat being vacated by King County Councilmember Bob Ferguson.

Following his election as state Attorney General, Ferguson will be sworn into office on Jan. 16, 2013. A total of 13 district residents submitted application materials to be considered for the appointment.

The Citizen Advisory Committee will evaluate those applicants based on their qualifications, including leadership skills and budget experience, their knowledge of issues facing King County, and their knowledge of issues specific to the residents of Council District 1.

By Dec. 21, the advisory committee will forward the names of qualified candidates to Executive Constantine. Under state law, when the position becomes vacant on Jan. 16, the Executive will transmit three names to the County Council for consideration. The Council has 60 days to fill the position from the date it becomes vacant.

Eleven of the 13 panelists are residents of District 1. The members of the Citizen Advisory Committee named today are:
  • George Allen, Co-Chair (Seattle) — Senior Vice President for Government Relations, Metropolitan Seattle Chamber of Commerce
  • Kathe Fowler, Co-Chair (Kirkland) — Board Vice President - Washington Environmental Council; Board President-Elect - Kirkland Performance Center
  • Susan Boundy-Sanders (Woodinville) — Councilmember, City of Woodinville; Vice President, Plymouth Healing Communities; Technical Writer and Project Manager, Insight Global 
  • Sam Chung (Lake Forest Park) – Attorney; Partner, Lee Anav Chung LLP
  • Dave Freiboth (Mercer Island) — Executive Secretary, M.L. King County Labor Council
  • Beretta Gomillion (Kenmore) — Executive Director, Center for Human Services
  • Michael Hatzenbeler (Seattle) — President & CEO, PROVAIL
  • Karama Hawkins (Shoreline) — Attorney, Stender Whaley PLLC 
  • Behnaz Nelson (Seattle) — Deputy Executive Director, Professional and Technical Employees, Local 17 
  • Ken Noreen (Shoreline) — Music educator; former President, Shoreline Public Schools Foundation
  • Mian Rice (Seattle) — Small Business Manager, Port of Seattle
  • Dwight Thompson (Lake Forest Park) — President and CEO, Rehabilitation and Evaluation Services, Inc.; former Councilmember, City of Lake Forest Park
  • Javier Valdez (Seattle) — Program Manager, Historically Underutilized Business Program, Seattle City Light
The 13 applicants for the District 1 Council seat are:

• David Baker — Mayor, City of Kenmore
• Dennis Behrend — Bond agent, Lacey OMalley Agency; English teacher, Mercer Education Group, Inc.
• Tiffany Bond — former Parks and Recreation Commissioner, City of Woodinville; Principal, BrandBond
• Rod Dembowski — Attorney, Foster Pepper PLLC
• Chris Eggen — Councilmember, City of Shoreline; Analyst, Applied Physics Laboratory
• Ken Goodwin — Commissioner, Woodinville Water District; member, King County Investment Pool Advisory Committee
• Will Hall — Councilmember, City of Shoreline; Senior Legislative Analyst, Snohomish County Council
• Bob Ransom — Commissioner, Ronald Wastewater District; former Councilmember, City of Shoreline
• Cindy Ryu — State Representative, 32nd District
• Keith Scully — Planning Commissioner, City of Shoreline; Attorney, Newman Du Wors
• Sarajane Siegfriedt — Member, King County Board of Equalization; former candidate for State Representative, 46th District
• Chuck Sloane — Deputy Ombudsman, King County Office of Citizen Complaints – Ombudsman; Board Chair, Municipal League of King County
• Naomi Wilson — Grants Specialist, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center

The appointee will serve in office until certification of the next general election in November 2013.


Read more...

Executive Constantine outlines process for filling vacancy created on the King County Council by Bob Ferguson's election

Friday, November 9, 2012


King County Executive Dow Constantine today congratulated Bob Ferguson on his election as state Attorney General, and outlined the process for filling the vacancy his election will create on the Metropolitan King County Council:

“I am elated that state voters recognized Bob’s extensive legal and public service and have elected him to serve as our state Attorney General.

“Bob has been a hardworking, independent member of the King County Council and I know he will make an outstanding Attorney General.

“His election will create a vacancy on the Council, and I will work to ensure the people of his district are represented by a qualified councilmember.

“When the election is certified, I will convene a stakeholder committee that is representative of the district. The committee’s job will be to vet the candidates who apply for the vacancy, and pass along all qualified candidates to me. I will transmit three names to the Council for confirmation.

“This will enable the Council to fill the position as soon as it officially becomes vacant. Applicants should plan to submit a resume and statement of qualifications to the stakeholder committee after the election is certified.”


Read more...

Ferguson secures county vans to benefit veterans, homeless families, and disabled adults

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

This van was given to the Senior Center in the
last distribution. Sid Rouse is a volunteer driver.
Updated 9-20-2012 10:37am

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Bob Ferguson secured three surplus vans from the King County Vanpool Program on September 17 for three local organizations in North King County: Parkview Services, Vision House Jacob’s Well, and Compass Housing Alliance.

“I am excited that these vans will be given a second life helping folks in our community access needed programs and services,” said Ferguson, whose King County Council district includes Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, Bothell, and parts of Woodinville, Kirkland, and North Seattle. “By serving veterans, homeless mothers and their children, and disabled adults, the organizations receiving vans assist those in need in North King County.”

Vision House Jacob’s Well housing complex, located in Shoreline and expected to be completed later this year, will provide transitional housing and support services to homeless mothers and their children. When complete, Jacob’s Well will serve up to 20 families and 65 children at the on-site licensed child care center.

“We are tremendously excited about receiving this van,” said John Camerer, Operations Director and Co-Founder of Vision House, the organization behind the Jacob’s Well housing complex. “The van will be used to take children to and from school, on field trips and for other educational and family activities. Transportation can be a major issue for homeless families, so having this van will be a huge blessing in helping families get to the places they need to go.”

Parkview Services is a non-profit organization headquartered in Shoreline that provides inclusive housing solutions to people with disabilities. The van will be used at the Parkview Group Home and benefit the six young adults with developmental disabilities who live there.

“We are extremely appreciative of this donation,” said Parkview Services Executive Director Jane Elise Bloom. “This van will help us provide transportation to work, medical appointments, and activities.”

Compass Housing Alliance’s Shoreline Veterans Program  provides transitional housing for formerly homeless veterans, assists with residents’ basic needs, counseling, life skills training, and helps find permanent housing. The van will be used to transport residents to counseling, medical, and other appointments.

“This grant of a van is exceptional news,” said Compass Housing Alliance Veterans Program Manager Tracy Jones. “This van will help us provide services for homeless veterans, men and women in recovery, and those who are overcoming mental health and physical issues.”

In 1995, the King County Council began donating retired vans to non-profit groups and local governments to help provide transportation for youth, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities or who are low-income. The donation of retired Vanpool vehicles provides mobility for a diverse array of King County residents, supports the positive work of various local organizations, and relieves traffic congestion by reducing the need for single-occupancy vehicles.

Interested organizations can contact Councilmember Ferguson’s office at 206-296-1001 or email  for more information on applying for a vehicle. 


Read more...

Elected leaders thank King County voters for passage of Children and Family Justice Center levy

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

King County leaders thanked the voters of King County for approving King County Proposition 1, the Children and Family Justice Center levy, which in the latest tally had a 53.41 percent yes vote.

“This is for the children and families of King County,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. “In times of crisis they need and deserve safety, dignity, and an opportunity for redemption. This center will finally help make that possible. This vote creates a better future that provides hope to at-risk youth and families in crisis and fair, efficient, and equitable justice for all.

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Bob Ferguson, prime sponsor of placing King County Proposition No. 1 on the ballot, said, “I am grateful to the people of King County for their commitment to justice and our region’s youth. Voters recognized the importance of providing critical infrastructure for our children and families facing crisis. 
”With the success of Proposition 1, we can move forward with a new Children and Family Services Center that serves families better, promotes public safety, and reflects our community’s commitment to a fair and accessible justice system for everyone,” added Ferguson.

King County Superior Court Presiding Judge Richard McDermott said, “It is enormously gratifying to see, in these recessionary times, that the citizens of King County have voted to approve Proposition 1. By approving this new property tax, they have confirmed the importance of assisting our children and families in need. The King County Superior Court thanks you for your support and promises to work closely with the other branches of government to construct a Children and Family Justice Center where justice can truly flourish.”


Read more...

Ferguson: “Validation of the Affordable Care Act a victory for health”

Thursday, June 28, 2012


Bob Ferguson
King County Council

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Bob Ferguson released the following statement today in response to the announcement of the landmark Supreme Court decision upholding the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act as constitutional:

“The Supreme Court’s validation of the Affordable Care Act is a victory for the health and well-being of all King County and Washington residents. 
“With today’s decision, millions of Americans have the peace of mind knowing they will benefit from the law’s reforms, including access to more affordable prescription medication for seniors. Moreover, insurance companies can’t deny coverage for pre-existing conditions or impose lifetime limits on health benefits. 
“Roughly one million Washington residents are uninsured, and the court’s favorable ruling is critical to moving forward with reforms that will bring us closer to ensuring all Americans have access to affordable health care.”

The King County Council passed a motion in 2010 acknowledging the benefits of health care reform and supporting implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

In 2010, Ferguson wrote a letter to the State Attorney General questioning the legal merit of joining the federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Over 100 attorneys joined the letter asking the Attorney General to reconsider his decision.



Read more...

King County Council supports “Blue Alert” for law enforcement

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

At its Monday, February 27 meeting, the Metropolitan King County Council gave its unanimous support in urging the Washington State Legislature to act on a bill creating a “Blue Alert” system for law enforcement officers.

The motion urges the Legislation to adopt HB 1820 and establish a “Blue Alert” notification system. Modeled after AMBER alerts, Blue alerts would use media resources to inform the public about crucial information regarding suspects who have seriously injured or killed law enforcement officers. If adopted, Washington would join seven other states that have created their own law enforcement notification system.

In 2010, the Council passed a motion urging the Legislature to pass the Lakewood Law Enforcement Memorial Act which placed on the ballot a constitutional amendment giving judges the ability to deny bail to those facing a life sentence. The constitutional amendment passed with 85 percent of the vote.



Read more...

King County Council raises awareness of mental health issues in King County

Sunday, May 22, 2011


Photo: King County Councilmembers with David Stone, CEO of Sound Mental Health (holding recognition), and Amnon Shoenfeld, Director of King County’s Mental Health, Chemical Abuse and Dependency Services Division (behind Stone).”

On May 9, the Metropolitan King County Council proclaimed May “Mental Health Month” in King County to raise awareness of mental health issues and the growing number of treatment options available in the community. A health issue that was once discussed in whispers is gradually seeing this stigma disappear.

“As a former director of an emergency services office, mental health issues and the importance of finding treatment for those who need it are not abstract concepts for me,” said Councilmember Bob Ferguson, who presented the proclamation. “It is important that we take time to recognize the importance of mental health and help those who are struggling.”

Mental disorders affect over twenty percent of adult Americans in any given year. May has been nationally recognized as “Mental Health Month” since 1949 in an effort to focus on mental health and mental wellness.

“Even with our society’s many technological and medical breakthroughs, there remains significant misunderstandings regarding the nature of mental illness,” said David Stone, CEO of Sound Mental Health, King County’s largest mental health services provider. “I appreciate what the Council has done to address these issues and its continued commitment to raising awareness of mental health and recovery in our community.”

Today’s recognition was presented on the same day the County Council accepted the annual report on the dedicated one-tenth of one cent sales tax that funds chemical dependency and mental health treatment programs and services. The investment of dedicated funding adopted by the Council in 2007 has resulted in a significant decrease in hospitalizations and jail stays for mental health clients.

King County provides mental health and substance abuse services to low income individuals in need, including crisis intervention, community mental health treatment, and supportive services that enhance the effectiveness of mental health treatment such as help with housing and employment. King County is also home to the nationally recognized Mental Health Court, which helps address public safety and reduce criminalization of individuals with mental illness. King County’s Mental Health Court recently celebrated 10 years of success.


From the Council Communications Office

Read more...

Proposal to ask voters to reprioritize property taxes to protect criminal justice falls one vote short

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Legislation to allow voters to decide whether to fund criminal justice services by reprioritizing other property taxes did not garner the votes needed to be placed before the voters on the August ballot at today’s special meeting of the Metropolitan King County Council.

Today was the last day for the Council to take action to submit a proposal to the voters for the August primary ballot. A majority of the Council voted for the proposal, but it failed because a supermajority was required.
“Criminal justice is the County’s paramount duty,” said Council Chair Bob Ferguson. “We are all in this budget crisis together and it is disappointing that a minority of the Council frustrated the will of the majority to let the voters decide on funding criminal justice and public safety services.”
Councilmembers voting against giving voters the option to reprioritize property taxes were Kathy Lambert, Jane Hague, Pete von Reichbauer, and Reagan Dunn.

Read more...
ShorelineAreaNews.com
Facebook: Shoreline Area News
Twitter: @ShorelineArea
Daily Email edition (don't forget to respond to the Follow.it email)

  © Blogger template The Professional Template II by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP