Talking with Col. Wright of the US Army Corps of Engineers at the Howard Hanson Dam.

The King County Council has taken a leadership role in ensuring that businesses, residents, and property owners in the Green River Valley are protected from and prepared for potential flooding.

The Howard Hanson Dam, which the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers owns and operates to regulate the water level in the river, has been damaged by recent storms and the federal government is limiting the amount of water that can be stored behind the structure. This means that, if a severe storm strikes this winter, that parts of Renton, Kent, Auburn and Tukwila could face major flooding.

The King County Flood Control District is leading efforts to strengthen existing levees along the river.

The Council recently approved legislation to authorize the King County Executive to issue a formal Declaration of Emergency before flooding occurs, so that emergency measures can be expedited. King County is also leading the way in getting information on flood planning to residents. To find out more, go to the King County flood planning page.

Having a flood plan prepared for you and your family can help you avoid serious threats to your health and safety. Please be prepared.

County Council and Executive-branch agencies reduce staff to keep budget “lifeboat” afloat

Money saved by emergency actions will help maintain $1.5 million in critical programs without spending reserves needed to close 2010 budget shortfall. Read more...

Federal court decision halts mining operations in Maury Island aquatic reserve

Constantine: “This is a great victory in the battle to protect and restore Puget Sound.”  Read More...

Constantine legislation strengthens county whistleblower protections

Future employee claims of retaliation to be investigated by Ombudsman, not department heads. Read more...

Constantine honored with state historic preservation award

Councilmember Dow Constantine was honored for his role in saving downtown Seattle's First United Methodist Church sanctuary with a 2008 Washington State Award for Outstanding Achievement in Historic Preservation. Constantine received the Special Achievement Award, which he shared with developer Kevin Daniels, at a May 13 ceremony in Olympia's Legislative Building. A total of ten awards were given to Washington citizens, organizations, and companies by the Washington State Historic Preservation Officer. Read more...