Nov. 20, 2008
Next phase of habitat restoration work starts soon at Snoqualmie River’s Chinook Bend
The next stage of habitat restoration work is about to begin at the Chinook Bend Natural Area on the Snoqualmie River.
Nov. 20, 2008
Metro will operate with different
holiday schedules on Nov. 27 & 28
Bus riders should be aware that King County Metro Transit will have reduced service for the Thanksgiving holiday on both Thursday, Nov. 27 and Friday, Nov. 28 – and the schedules will be different for each day.
Nov. 18, 2008
Brightwater tunnel boring machine sees the light, marking major project milestone
King County's Brightwater project reached a major milestone late last week as workers completed the first tunnel of the new wastewater treatment system's 13-mile conveyance system.
Nov. 18, 2008
Ready relief: Local health care system benefits from new emergency medical capacity
In one of the first exercises of its kind in the nation, Public Health - Seattle & King County, the King County Health Care Coalition, the City of Seattle and partners from throughout the region today are demonstrating their ability to mobilize and operate an emergency Health Care Center, also known as an Alternate Care Facility (ACF). The purpose of the emergency Health Care Center is to relieve pressure on the local health care system by adding extra medical capacity during a disaster.
Nov. 17, 2008
More congestion on key routes, more bus riders
With a few exceptions, most drivers in King County, are stuck in traffic more than they were 10 years ago.
Nov. 17, 2008
King County Animal Shelter doubling in size
The sounds of construction are in the air outside of the King County animal shelter in Kent. Crews are installing two new large portable buildings alongside the current 37 year-old converted dairy barn, essentially doubling the space that will be made available for homeless cats.
Nov. 17, 2008
Report flood damage to telephone hotline until Tuesday Online form available thereafter
King County residents and business owners who sustained damage from the recent storms and flooding are encouraged to report uninsured property damages online, or by calling 1-800-523-5044 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. today and Tuesday.
Nov. 13, 2008
King County Flood Warning Center monitoring river levels through the night
The King County Flood Warning Center will remain open through the night Thursday as staff continue to monitor river conditions in the aftermath of this week’s torrential rainfall.
Nov. 13, 2008
King County releases first performance scorecard
King County residents can now get an easy four-page performance scorecard to evaluate the effectiveness of county services. The scorecard highlights how well 20 key county programs are doing, what areas need improvement, and summarize the county's finances during 2007.
Nov. 13, 2008
White River rising to Phase II flood alert level as flood control dam creates storage capacity
King County Flood Warning Center officials say the White River below Mud Mountain Dam could experience minor flooding later today because of water releases from the flood-control dam. The Flood Warning Center has been open since 4 a.m. Nov. 12 to monitor conditions on several rivers as heavy rain pelted much of the county.
Nov. 13, 2008
Save time, money and the planet with King County’s Waste Free Holidays promotion
With more than 150 great gift ideas to choose from – including many affordable options – King County’s Waste Free Holidays program could be the perfect solution for your holiday shopping list and your budget.
Nov. 13, 2008
Green River flows climb; Snoqualmie River very high near Carnation
King County has issued a Phase Three flood alert for the Green River, where a planned water release by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from a flood control dam is expected to keep stream flows elevated this morning.
Nov. 12, 2008
King County Executive Ron Sims declares a local proclamation of emergency
Due to the recent severe weather conditions that produced heavy rain, flooding and strong wind conditions, King County Executive Ron Sims has declared a Local Proclamation of Emergency. The emergency declaration allows King County departments to enter into contracts and incur obligations necessary to protect and provide emergency assistance to victims of flooding.
Nov. 12, 2008
King County Flood Warning Center continues monitoring high river flows
Flood patrol crews from the King County Flood Warning Center will work through the night to assess conditions and check on levees and other flood-prevention structures that are protecting county residents and their property from dangerously high river flows.
Nov. 12, 2008
Rain-swollen Snoqualmie River rises to Phase IV flood alert level as rain pounds King County
Pushed by several inches of rain over the past 24 hours, the Snoqualmie River has surged to a dangerous Phase IV flood alert level, while the Tolt River remains at a Phase IV flood alert level, according to staff at the King County Flood Warning Center. The Flood Warning Center opened at 4 a.m. Wednesday to monitor river levels and flood conditions.
Nov. 12, 2008
Rain pushes Tolt River to Phase IV flood alert level; Snoqualmie up to Phase III as rainfall continues
King County Flood Warning Center staff say continued heavy rainfall early Wednesday morning has pushed the Tolt River to a Phase IV flood alert level, while the fast-rising Snoqualmie River has risen to a Phase III flood alert level.
Nov. 12, 2008
Rain-swollen Snoqualmie River rises to Phase IV flood alert level as rain pounds King County
The King County Flood Warning Center opened at 4 a.m. Wednesday to monitor flooding on the Tolt and Snoqualmie rivers, and to prepare for the possibility of significant flooding on other rivers later today as heavy rain is expected across the region.
Nov. 8, 2008
Utility crew stops small sewer overflow on Vashon Island
Sewer utility employees responded early this morning to a small wastewater overflow from the Beulah Park Cove treatment facility, which is part of the Vashon Treatment Plant system.
Nov. 7, 2008
King County closes Flood Warning Center, but will continue to monitor river levels
King County closed its Flood Warning Center at 7 p.m. Friday following 24 hours of monitoring minor and moderate flooding on the Tolt and Snoqualmie rivers. Staff will continue to monitor river flows as conditions warrant.
Nov. 7, 2008
Sims pledges to 'Eat Local for Thanksgiving,' encourages food purchases from area farms
Whether it's carrots, cranberries or a fresh turkey, if you include locally grown food in your Thanksgiving feast, you not only will enjoy the freshest, tastiest food around, but you'll also help to preserve the region's farmland and the environment – one forkful at a time.
Nov. 7, 2008
Snoqualmie River rises to Phase III flood alert as King County continues watch on rain-filled rivers
Following a night of persistent rain, the Snoqualmie River on Friday morning joined the Tolt River at a Phase III flood alert level, according to officials with the King County Flood Warning Center, which has been open since 7 p.m. Thursday to monitor rising river levels.
Nov. 7, 2008
Tolt River enters Phase IV flood alert level as King County checks for additional river flooding
Swollen by heavy rainfall, the Tolt River has entered a Phase IV flood alert level, with widespread flooding anticipated in the Tolt watershed, according to the King County Flood Warning Center, which opened Thursday evening to monitor rising river levels.
Nov. 6, 2008
King County opens Flood Warning Center as heavy rain leads to minor flooding on Tolt River
King County activated its Flood Warning Center at 7 p.m. Thursday to monitor minor flooding along the Tolt River, as heavy rainfall raised the river into a Phase II flood alert level. Additional heavy rainfall could cause other King County rivers into flood conditions.
Nov. 6, 2008
Pushed by heavy rain, Tolt River rises to Phase III flood alert level; Snoqualmie River at Phase II
Persistent heavy rainfall across King County has led to flooding along the Tolt and Snoqualmie rivers. The King County Flood Warning Center, which was activated at 7 p.m. Thursday to monitor rising river levels, says the Tolt has now entered a Phase III flood alert level, while the Snoqualmie River is at a Phase II flood alert level.
Nov. 4, 2008
King County ready for wet and wild weather
The fall storm season is under way, and King County's Flood Warning Center is prepared to provide citizens and property owners with accurate and timely river flooding information.
Nov. 4, 2008
Voter turnout strong
As predicted, voter turnout is strong and things are running smoothly at the polls.
Nov. 4, 2008
Frequently Asked Election Day Questions
Can I vote at King County Elections in Renton on Election Day? No. Early, in-person voting ended Nov. 3 at 6 p.m. There is no voting at King County Elections office on Tuesday, Nov. 4. There are 392 polling places available throughout the county. To find your polling place, enter your information at https://www.metrokc.gov/elections/voterlookup.aspx or verify the voter registration card.
Nov. 4, 2008
Election day media tour
Sherril Huff, King County Elections Director has scheduled the following media availability for tomorrow, Election Day. Polling place tour will take place at the Seattle polling places on Nov. 4, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Nov. 4, 2008
King County Elections' media office opens
King County Elections has established a media hotline to assist reporters and other media throughout Election Day. Staff will be available to assist with information and requests for interviews with key election officials, including Elections Director Sherril Huff.
Nov. 3, 2008
Early voting ends
King County early voting ended today at 6 p.m. with more than 6000 people choosing to vote in-person between Oct. 15 and Nov. 3. Anyone wanting to vote, is instructed to visit their assigned polling place tomorrow where their ballot and poll worker are waiting.
Nov. 3, 2008
Prepare for heavy rains this week
Heavy rainfall is forecast for later this week, which means King County residents should be prepared to deal with flooding and weather-related emergencies.
Nov. 1, 2008
Poll voters: shorter lines await you Election Day
In response to a two hour long line of people waiting to vote early at the Elections Office in Renton, election officials are urging poll voters wait until Tuesday to vote their regular poll ballot if they are not going out of town.
Oct. 31, 2008
Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station earns two more awards for sustainable design
Chalk up two more high-profile honors for King County's recently redeveloped Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station. The facility, which re-opened in February following a two-year-long, ground-up redevelopment and features numerous environmentally sustainable attributes, has earned the Northwest Construction Consumer Council's "Grand Award - Project of the Year" and the "Green Project of the Year" awards.
Oct. 31, 2008
King County offers free 'naturescaping' session, native plant salvage, Nov. 12 in Maple Valley
Learn how to transform your yard into a beautiful, low maintenance oasis using the Pacific Northwest's abundant and diverse native plants at King County's "naturescaping" workshop, Nov. 12 in Maple Valley.
Oct. 31, 2008
King County Animal Care and Control's special two-for-one feline adoption promotion
King County Animal Care and Control is launching a new "Double the Love" promotion aimed at placing more of its adoptable cats and kittens into homes during the month of November.
Oct. 30, 2008
30-year tuberculosis high in King County reflects ongoing health threat
Showing a local symptom of a global epidemic, King County reached a new 30-year high for tuberculosis in 2007, with 161 people diagnosed with active tuberculosis (TB) disease. This was an 11% increase from 2006. These new findings are included in the 2007 Annual Tuberculosis report for King County, found at www.kingcounty.gov/health/tb.
Oct. 27, 2008
Sims and union coalition reach historic agreement on county budget
All King County employees, with the exception of essential safety and transit staff, would take ten days unpaid furlough in 2009 under the terms of an historic agreement reached today with the King County Union Coalition to help with the unprecedented $93.4 million 2009 budget deficit.
Oct. 27, 2008
Trick or treat warnings for pet owners
Don't let Halloween fun turn into a scary night for your family pet. King County Animal Care and Control reminds pet owners to take extra precautions on October 31 because many of the evening's traditions could endanger pets.
Oct. 23, 2008
King County Parks earns national award for imaginative communications efforts
King County Parks has long been known as an innovative leader in providing outstanding facilities and amenities for its citizens – including the Pacific Northwest's premier cycling velodrome, the world-class Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center and the 3,000-acre wilderness oasis of Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park – just 10 minutes from downtown Seattle.
Oct. 23, 2008
Sims to host joint annual forum for King County Unincorporated Area Councils
King County residents are invited to join County Executive Ron Sims when he hosts his joint annual forum to meet with the chairs and members of the six recognized King County Unincorporated Area Councils (UACs). Attendees will be able to pick up informational items and talk with and hear from other elected officials, King County department directors, and residents of the county's unincorporated areas as they discuss various issues facing their communities.
Oct. 22, 2008
King County Animal Care and Control braces for an increase in livestock neglect and cruelty cases
With a shaky economy, high hay prices and winter weather approaching, King County Animal Care and Control staffers are anticipating rough times ahead for some local animals.
Oct. 21, 2008
Whole Foods Market invests in communities with $20,000-plus donation to King County Parks
Earlier this year, shoppers at Whole Foods Market stores in Bellevue, Redmond, Westlake and Roosevelt Square helped strengthen the future of King County Parks by simply buying groceries.
Oct. 20, 2008
County moving forward to modernize business systems
The King County Council voted Monday, Oct. 20, to move forward with the Accountable Business Transformation (ABT) Program. ABT will move King County to use of contemporary, countywide business practices and an integrated finance, human resources and budget system.
Oct. 17, 2008
Fall Property Taxes due for the last half of 2008
King County property owners have until October 31st to pay 2008 second-half property taxes. After that date, state-mandated interest charges and penalties will be added to the tax bill. To make the process easier, King County provides several ways for property owners to pay their taxes quickly and conveniently.
Oct. 17, 2008
County moving forward to modernize business systems
The King County Council voted Monday, Oct. 20, to move forward with the Accountable Business Transformation (ABT) Program. ABT will move King County to use of contemporary, countywide business practices and an integrated finance, human resources and budget system.
Oct. 17, 2008
Cedar River Trail bridge replacement project will improve access for trail users, vehicles
By replacing an aging and undersized bridge along the Cedar River Trail in Maple Valley, King County will improve conditions for trail users and for motorists using the bridge's underpass. Work is scheduled to begin Nov. 15 on replacing trail bridge over Upper Dorre Don Way Southeast as part of the King County Parks' Bridge and Trestle Rehabilitation Program.
Oct. 15, 2008
County's AAA bond rating renewed during world-wide financial crisis
Exceptional management, conservative financial policies and Executive's 2009 proposed budget combine to maintain high credit rating
Two national credit rating agencies have given their highest short-term bond ratings for King County and reaffirmed the county's exemplary ratings on all previously issued long term bonds, including each agency's highest AAA rating for certain long term bonds. The high ratings were renewed despite stepped up scrutiny by rating agencies because of the worldwide credit crisis.
Oct. 14, 2008
King County ready for historic election; ballots in the mail Wednesday
The countdown is on to the Nov. 4 General Election and King County Elections is ready to process record returns in what is expected to be the highest turnout ever in the state's largest county.
Oct. 14, 2008
Oct. 22 meeting in Enumclaw set to discuss new flood maps, flood study for the White River
King County is hosting a public meeting Oct. 22 in Enumclaw to discuss a new flood study and draft flood maps for the White River. The updated information will be used to revise flood insurance rate maps for property owners within unincorporated King County. The new flood study includes seven miles of the White River, from the State Route 410 bridge crossing upstream to Mud Mountain Dam.
Oct. 13, 2008
Sims delivers thoughtful, balanced 2009 budget
King County Executive Ron Sims today unveiled a $4.9 billion 2009 budget that uses efficiencies, savings, reserves, fees, program cuts, and employee lay-offs to balance a projected $93.4 million General Fund deficit. At $644 million dollars, the proposed 2009 General Fund is $15 million less than 2008, the first time since 2003 the General Fund has been lower than the previous year.
Oct. 9, 2008
King County Executive cuts staff, reorganizes office for better performance
Today Executive Ron Sims transmitted legislation to the council trimming his own offices while implementing a countywide performance management and accountability system called for by the Performance and Accountability Act championed by King County Councilmember Jane Hague.
Oct. 9, 2008
Help restore native fish and wildlife habitat at Duwamish Alive! clean-up, planting event, Oct. 11
Don't miss a great chance to work alongside other volunteers this Saturday at the Duwamish Alive! clean-up and habitat restoration event. Set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this annual event needs volunteers to pick up debris and remove invasive plant species, then plant native vegetation at eight different locations along the Duwamish River.
Oct. 7, 2008
Gardening tips, plant sale, information and tours offered at South Plant event, Oct. 18
Visit a demonstration greenhouse garden, learn about innovative stormwater treatment and get plant advice from Master Gardener volunteers at a free public event hosted by King County's Wastewater Treatment Division on Saturday, Oct. 18.
Oct. 7, 2008
Workshop for floodplain farmers set for Oct. 28
Farmers who work the rich bottomlands along King County rivers can learn more about flood preparedness, flood recovery and beneficial changes to building rules to help them better protect their livestock and livelihoods, at an Oct. 28 workshop.
Oct. 7, 2008
Rechargeable battery recycling efforts earn King County national award
The King County Solid Waste Division, a recognized leader in environmental stewardship, has received a national award for its battery recycling efforts from the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC).
Oct. 7, 2008
Sewer utility work to close portion of Lake Washington Boulevard, Oct. 11
A sewer construction project needed to protect public health and the environment in Seattle's Madrona neighborhood will prompt a one-day closure of a portion of Lake Washington Boulevard on Saturday, Oct. 11.
Oct. 6, 2008
Approved 2008 Comprehensive Plan promotes equity, predictability and environmental protections
King County Executive Ron Sims' 2008 Comprehensive Plan update was approved today by the King County Council. This is the first of King County's Comprehensive Plan updates to address global issues such as climate change and equity and social justice.
Oct. 6, 2008
New savings and efficiencies in King County budget by filling vacant office space
The first cost-savings cut in the proposed 2009 budget will come from King County Executive Ron Sims' office. Savings of nearly $4 million are possible from Executive Sims' recommendation to maximize use of county property and consolidate more functions into the county's new Chinook Building. The building's vacant 8th floor would be put to use and leases for space in the Columbia Center would be terminated this December under the proposal.
Oct. 3, 2008
Leaders stress that now is the time to plan for rising water in flood-prone areas
Recognizing October as "Flood Awareness Month," King County Flood Control District Board Members Julia Patterson and Reagan Dunn and King County Executive Ron Sims today urged residents living in flood-prone areas to prepare for the possibility of rising rivers and streams with a personal flood-preparedness plan.
Oct. 3, 2008
Ballots in the mail for Americans abroad
Today King County Elections mailed 15,419 ballots to voters living overseas, out of the state or who serve in the military; two days before the state deadline. The early mailing allows extra transit time for voters to receive and return their mail ballots for the upcoming General Election and meets the United States Department of Justice's recommended timeframe.
Oct. 3, 2008
Want to vote in November? You have to register first
The deadline for most voters to register to vote or update their registration information is fast approaching: tomorrow. Saturday, Oct. 4 is the last day for mail in and online voter registrations and transfers for the Nov. 4 General Election. Voters not currently registered in Washington have until Oct. 20 to register in-person to vote at the King County Elections office in Renton.
Oct. 3, 2008
Green building could get King County grants
King County has more green buildings than any other county in the United States – and there's room for even more sustainably designed and built projects.
Oct. 3, 2008
Discuss possible bus changes at
upcoming community meetings
Share your opinion about ideas for future bus service in Southeast Seattle and Southwest King County at one of eight upcoming community discussions hosted by King County Metro Transit and Sound Transit. Or, if you can't attend a meeting, you can still provide feedback by online questionnaire, email, phone, or letter.
Oct. 2, 2008
King County and Maple Valley sign agreement on joint planning of Summit Pit property
King County and the City of Maple Valley have signed a memorandum of agreement to work together on a joint planning process to decide the appropriate zoning for the Summit Pit property in Southeast King County, also known as "the Donut Hole."
Oct. 1, 2008
King County going electric to cut fuel consumption
King County is writing the next chapter in the effort to turn the corner on climate change – one it hopes will help spur consumer demand for electric and battery powered vehicles for the public benefit. As part of his strategic initiative to cut fuel consumption and harmful carbon emissions, King County Executive Ron Sims today unveiled a five-point plan to support the national switch to electric automobiles. The 2008 Electric Vehicle Report provides a blueprint for new standards for government fleets, provides incentives for using clean alternatives to fossil fuels, continues the county's participation in a national plug-in vehicle demonstration project, and looks to new electric vehicle technology as the key to energy efficient transportation for the coming decade
Oct. 1, 2008
King County honors sustainably designed, built projects with 'Greening in Place' awards
Environmentally sustainable building design and construction in King County took center stage recently when King County Executive Ron Sims announced the 2008 "Greening in Place" awards.
Sept. 29, 2008
New trees coming to Steve Cox Memorial Park as King County removes diseased, unsafe trees
About 30 old and diseased poplar trees are being removed from Steve Cox Memorial Park in White Center, and the King County Parks and Recreation Division is making plans to replant new trees within the next few weeks.
Sept. 29, 2008
You've moved your furniture, your clothes, the kids and the dog... But what about your vote?
Time is running out for people who recently moved to update their address or register to vote in time to participate in the historical Nov. 4 General Election. The deadline to register to vote online, by mail or change your address is Saturday, Oct. 4.
Sept. 25, 2008
King County Executive signs land deal to sell Summit Pit property to housing developer
King County Executive Ron Sims today signed a purchase and sale agreement with Yarrow Bay Group for the 156 acre Summit Pit property making possible future housing for a broad range of incomes in southeast King County, new parks and trails and millions in new revenue for the City of Maple Valley. The Executive also announced he is negotiating with Maple Valley to ensure the city is directly involved in any future development discussions and planning efforts for property uses.
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