2010 King County Budget

The Council recently adopted a balanced 2010 budget. The County faced a difficult budget session and made numerous tough decisions. To balance the 2010 budget, the Council cut $56 million from the County’s $629 million general fund, which pays for services such as elections, criminal justice, public health, and human services. By cutting costs and making targeted efficiencies, we were able to preserve nearly all current funding for public safety and criminal justice, and avert threatened cuts to Metro bus service. Learn More...

Staying Connected in 2010

It is important for me to keep in touch, but I will be sending fewer print newsletters in 2010 as a budget savings measure. There are several ways to stay connected and receive updates about County government, some of which are new:

• Receive my monthly eNews - My monthly electronic newsletter is an inexpensive and easy way to keep in touch. You can view my most recent eNews here, and sign up to receive my eNews here.
• Visit me on Facebook - Check out my facebook page, where I will be regularly posting updates and photos. 
• Watch my YouTube videos - I periodically post videos on County issues and district events on my YouTube page.

Protecting Open Space

In November, King County voters approved an amendment to the King County Charter, commonly called the Open Space Amendment. I led the Council to place the proposal on the ballot. The Act increases the protection for more than 156,000 acres of County owned land. These properties are among the most treasured conservation and recreation spaces in King County. Learn More...

40th Anniversary of the King County Charter

The Council recently celebrated 40 years of King County government operating under a County charter with a recognition of the trailblazing efforts of the Board of King County Freeholders — the creators of the county’s constitution. King County made history on May 1, 1969 when the voter-approved charter took effect, making it the first county in Washington State to operate under a “home rule” charter. The Charter brought sweeping changes to King County government.  Learn More...

Improving Open Access to Public Records     

Government transparency is critical. It is important that citizens have access to public records, which inform them about the decisions being made by their government. This year, King County has been involved in two high-profile public records cases, potentially resulting in more than $1 million in penalties. The Council recently adopted legislation I co-sponsored that expands transparency in government while making the disclosure process less burdensome on the public. Learn More...