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...

Proposed 2010 King County Budget

The Council recently received Executive Triplett’s proposed 2010 budget. The county faces a $56 million shortfall in its $621 million general fund, which pays for the day-to-day operations of King County government, including the sheriff, courts, jails, public health, and elections. The Council will adopt the budget in late November, with any changes we deem necessary to reflect the priorities of King County residents. Learn More...

King County Animal Services

In response to issues identified in a recent audit of King County Animal Care and Control, I joined a majority of Council members in introducing legislation calling for a transition to a new model of providing animal sheltering and control services to King County residents. On November 9, the Council unanimously adopted the legislation. Learn More...

Green River Valley Flood Preparations

A major issue being addressed at the Council concerns the integrity of the federally owned Howard Hanson Dam in South King County. It has become increasingly clear that the dam is at risk of failing unless protective measures are taken. The problem is that those protective measures stand a good chance of producing widespread flooding in the Green River Valley in the months and years ahead. To protect against failure of the dam, it will be necessary to keep the level of water behind the dam as low as possible until the dam can be repaired. This means that water will have to be released faster than usual into the Green River – creating a substantial possibility of widespread flooding in the Green River Valley. Learn More...

Counties Come Together to Discuss Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Needs

Over 90 representatives from 22 Washington counties gathered in Ellensburg on Thursday, September 24 for a conference on mental health and substance abuse issues. I co-hosted the conference with the Washington State Association of Counties. The conference provided an opportunity for policy makers, service providers, and other officials from across Washington to meet and discuss the role of Washington counties in addressing mental health and substance abuse needs. Learn More...