May 2011

Dear Neighbor,

It’s been a busy Spring at the King County Council! In this e-newsletter I’ve shared our recent accomplishments and highlighted two important opportunities for YOU to get involved in your County government.

Sincerely,

Julia Patterson, King County Councilmember - District 5

Veterans and Human Services Levy renewal sent to voters

Board of Health adopts guidelines for healthier foods in vending machines

South King County residents: Your participation is needed!

King County Councilmember
Julia Patterson
www.kingcounty.gov/patterson
julia.patterson@kingcounty.gov

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Veterans and Human Services Levy renewal sent to voters

On May 2, the Council unanimously approved legislation sending the King County Veterans and Human Services Levy to the voters at the August primary election. If approved by the voters, the measure would continue the existing levy for an additional six years at the current rate of 5 cents per $1,000 of assessed value. By approving this legislation, the Council is giving voters the opportunity to continue services that support veterans and their families and assist those in need of human services like domestic violence and sexual assault programs.

Board of Health adopts guidelines for healthier foods in vending machines

On April 21, the King County Board of Health approved guidelines encouraging local organizations to provide healthier choices in vending machines. Vending machines offer quick food for people on the go, but most offer very limited and unhealthy choices. As Chair of the Board’s Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) subcommittee, it’s important to me that we make healthy options available in our worksites, youth programs, and other community settings. The goal is that we make it easier for our employees and visitors to reach for something other than the potato chips and sugary sodas when they want a quick snack.

South King County residents: Your participation is needed!

The King County Civil Rights Commission is looking for individuals interested in public service and raising community awareness and involvement in civil rights issues. Residents living in District 5, including SeaTac, Kent, De Moines, Renton, Tukwila, West Hill and Skyway, are specifically needed at this time. Commissioners serve three-year terms and focus on issues related to the County’s affirmative action policies, non-discrimination enforcement, and minority/women business utilization programs. In addition, the Commission is working to educate the community about the county’s new Equity and Social Justice Ordinance. If you are interested please contact Paula Harris-White at (206) 296-8610 or email paula.harris-white@kingcounty.gov.

The King County Board of Appeals/Equalization is also seeking individuals interested in joining their team. Board members must be able to dedicate 60 to 160 days for Board work per year and are compensated $250 for each six-hour day; $150 for less than six-hour day. Members should have excellent communication, analytical and listening skills. Experience in one or more of the following fields is desired: Real-estate (including CIE, MLS, IDX and RETS), law, construction, mortgage banking, appraisal, accounting, architecture, finance, taxation, land use or zoning. The Board also seeks applicants with the ability to review and provide electronic communication, and who can use computer technology for analyzing appraisal data. Please contact Angela Kolczynski at (206) 296-1617 or email angela.kolczynski@kingcounty.gov if you are interested.