News
May 15, 2008
Ferguson recognized as Human Services “Champion” at Family Center Opening
King County Councilmember Bob Ferguson was recognized as a “Champion of the Center for Human Services” at the May 14 grand opening of the agency’s new Northshore Family Center in Bothell.
May 6, 2008
Public campaign financing: County Council Town Hall to examine “voter-owned” elections
“The ultimate decision of whether to bring public campaign financing to King County rests with the voters, which is why this meeting provides citizens with a great opportunity to learn about this issue and have their questions answered.”
May 5, 2008
Council preserves options for rail and trail in historic agreement with Port to bring Eastside Rail Corridor into public ownership
“The County and Port have teamed up to realize the vision of a dual-use, publicly owned Eastside corridor. This acquisition will be treasured by many generations of King County residents who will use the trail and rail corridor that will eventually be established.”
May 5, 2008
County Council calls for rebid of federal tanker contract
“My father devoted nearly 40 years to Boeing, which helped raise the seven kids in my family. So not only do I understand the importance of these contracts to the area, but I also know the amount of talent Boeing has to offer for this kind of project.”
April 29, 2008
Meeting of King County Veterans and Human Services Levy Oversight Boards held in Shoreline
“When I helped draft the ballot measure to raise funds for King County veterans, families, and other vulnerable citizens, it was imperative that the funds reach the intended recipients. The citizens serving on the oversight boards make sure the funds are supporting those who need services the most.”
April 29, 2008
Councilmember Bob Ferguson meets with Crista seniors to discuss county issues
“Spending the afternoon at Crista was a great way to bring our regional government directly to folks who are interested and engaged in politics, to learn from their perspectives, and to answer their questions.”
April 28, 2008
Funds released for immediate improvements at County animal shelters
“The benchmarks this legislation sets will help the County evaluate how close it has come, or how far it has to go, to creating a solution on behalf of the animals in King County’s care. And if the County can’t meet these benchmarks, it will be time to consider whether King County can properly provide these services, or whether an outside agency should take over.”
April 15, 2008
Ferguson delivers van to Shoreline Parks Department
“The Shoreline Parks Department provides valuable services to the residents of Shoreline, and now even more people will benefit from the good work of this agency.”
April 15, 2008
Ferguson delivers van to north Seattle’s “Outdoors for All”
“This van will help residents with disabilities experience the amazing recreational opportunities that King County has to offer.”
April 15, 2008
Ferguson Delivers Van to Bothell’s Northshore Family Center
“The Northshore Family Center provides valuable services to the residents of North King County, and now even more people will benefit from the good work of this agency.”
April 14, 2008
Leveling the playing field with public campaign financing
“Voter-owned elections free candidates to focus on the concerns of citizens rather than major donors and lobbyists, who sometimes tend to hold disproportionate influence in local races.”
April 3, 2008
Lake Forest Park Town Hall draws large crowd
“I enjoy doing town meetings because of the opportunity to meet fact-to-face with my constituents and discuss how to address these concerns.”
March 24, 2008
More bus service on major routes throughout the county thanks to new transit partnerships
“Bus service should be an attractive and effective alternative to driving, and overcrowded buses do not serve that goal. By giving these partnerships the green light today, the Council took a major step towards providing King County residents with more frequent and reliable bus service.”
March 17, 2008
Council weighs future of County animal shelters after hearing a second disturbing report
“The inadequacy of care at animal shelters is an embarrassment. Today’s scathing report shows the County still has not reformed its efforts to provide humane care to animals under its control.”
March 14, 2008
County Councilman honored for human services work - Shoreline Enterprise
The Center for Human Services in Shoreline has honored King County Councilman Bob Ferguson with its annual Dorrit Pealy Award for Outstanding Community Support. Officials of the North End human service provider recognized Ferguson for raising...
March 10, 2008
Sammamish park transfer meets growing need for Eastside playfields
“As a soccer player and avid hiker and birder, I understand the need to balance developed playfields as well as public lands left in a natural state. I am pleased that the County is able to achieve a balance of park use for citizens and preserving open space.”
March 7, 2008
Town Meeting Draws a Large Crowd in North Seattle
“It is important to have town meetings that incorporate both city and county officials. Constituents are able to have their questions addressed from the city and county perspectives.”
March 6, 2008
Technology innovations bring awards to King County Superior Court and District Court
“The judges and court staff have served the public well by facilitating electronic access to court records and improving customer service. New technology has revolutionized the potential for public access to court records, and it is exciting that the judges have harnessed this technology to the benefit of the public’s right to know.”
Feb. 25, 2008
Property owners have new avenue of appeal of County permit fees
“This legislation gives citizens greater access to the government permitting process.”
Jan. 29, 2008
Community Little Leagues are a hit in King County’s 2008 Budget
“The goal of this funding is to ensure that more kids will have an opportunity to participate in little league programs.”
Jan. 28, 2008
Sheriff’s Blue Ribbon Panel cites progress in implementing reforms
“The independent oversight office was the centerpiece of the reform package Council Chair Patterson and I introduced back in January, 2006, and I am proud that the Blue Ribbon Panel has affirmed the need to move forward with this good government reform to restore trust in the professionalism of our King County Sheriff’s Office.”
Jan. 28, 2008
Oversight panel will improve security at Courthouse and County agencies
“Members of the public shouldn’t have to fear for their safety at the courthouse.”
Jan. 28, 2008
King County ratepayers save $13 million through refinancing of bonds
“We must continue building upon the sound financial policies established by the Council and maintain our prudent management of the public’s money. This sale is an example of ratepayers benefiting from the fiscal strategies promoted in past budgets.”
Jan. 25, 2008
Noted Shoreline author Ivan Doig honored at grand opening of new Chinook Building
Doig is best known for This House of Sky: Landscapes of a Western Mind, an elegiac memoir about the people and places of the American frontier that was a finalist for the National Book Award. His varied contributions to American literature include novels, essays, memoirs and poems.
Jan. 25, 2008
Names of each floor of new Chinook Building honor the legacy of King County
“This is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge leaders from all walks of life who shaped King County’s culture and history.”
Jan. 24, 2008
"Dear Bobby F.: You were my childhood hero" --Seattle Times Essay
When I learned of Fischer's death, I reflected on the hundreds of hours I spent studying his games while my schoolwork went unattended. Bobby Fischer was a big part of my youth, and I wondered how best to remember him.
Jan. 22, 2008
Council adopts funding to pilot improvements in children’s health
“The Council is serious about addressing the health needs of King County’s children, and the approval of this funding sends that message. This funding is also fiscally responsible because it addresses the mental health issues of our youth, and helps avoid long-term costs by keeping kids out of emergency rooms and the criminal justice system.”
Jan. 21, 2008
"Rail corridor on the right track" --Seattle PI OpEd from Councilmembers Bob Ferguson and Larry Phillips
With the work of a number of partners, we are finally on track to launch a public process to decide the potential recreational and transportation uses of the corridor, without sacrificing other public assets in the process.
Jan. 7, 2008
Human services, public health highlight King County’s 2008 State Legislative Agenda
“The state Legislature has passed important legislation allowing King County to develop an action plan for dealing more humanely with mental illness and drug dependency in King County, rather than warehousing people in jail who desperately need treatment. I look forward to continuing our productive partnership with our state and federal delegations on these and many other issues.”
Dec. 20, 2007
County Council approves funds to “restore history” inside King County Courthouse
Metropolitan King County Councilmembers Dow Constantine and Bob Ferguson announced today that an ongoing King County Courthouse window repair project will be expanded to include design and engineering work to allow the future removal of aluminum panels bolted to the sides of the building in an effort to “modernize” the Courthouse 40 years ago.
Dec. 17, 2007
Council ensures public ownership of Eastside BNSF rail corridor and dual use for rail and trails
Public ownership of the BNSF Eastside rail corridor was ensured today as the Metropolitan King County Council unanimously approved the framework of an historic agreement with the Port of Seattle and BNSF Railway Company, one that also preserves the opportunities for dual use of the corridor as both a recreational trail and a transportation corridor.
Dec. 14, 2007
Council prepares legislation to ensure public ownership and dual use of Eastside BNSF rail corridor for rail and trails
Four members of the Metropolitan King County Council today announced they are preparing proposed legislation for action on Monday that will ensure public ownership of the Eastside BNSF rail corridor, and preserve the opportunities for its use as both a recreational trail and a transportation corridor.
Nov. 27, 2007
Ferguson helps secure funding for Northshore seniors, working families, environmental education and the arts
The Metropolitan King County Council unanimously adopted a County budget for 2008 that supports critical services for Bothell and Kenmore citizens, responds to regional priorities voiced by citizens earlier this year and stays within the property tax limits of Initiative 747.
Nov. 27, 2007
Ferguson helps secure County funding to assist Shoreline human service programs, acquire community open space
The Metropolitan King County Council unanimously adopted a County budget for 2008 that supports critical services for the Shoreline and Lake Forest Park area while staying within the property tax limits of Initiative 747 even though that limitation was recently deemed unconstitutional by the State Supreme Court.
Nov. 21, 2007
Ferguson named an Aspen-Rodel Fellow in Public Leadership
The Aspen Institute, an international nonprofit dedicated to fostering enlightened leadership and open-minded dialogue, announced it has selected Metropolitan King County Councilmember Bob Ferguson for an Aspen-Rodel Fellowship in Public Leadership. The program honors public leaders it identifies as the “true rising stars” of American politics.
Nov. 19, 2007
King County Council adopts 2008 budget that respects property tax limits of I-747
The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously adopted a $4.9 billion budget that responds to the priorities voiced by citizens earlier this year to ensure public trust, enhance quality of life, and protect public health and safety. The budget stays within the property tax limits of Initiative 747, despite the recent invalidation of the measure by the state Supreme Court.
Nov. 19, 2007
County Council improves management of King County elections by creating separate Elections Division
King County Elections will operate as a separate division within county government with the sole responsibility of conducting fair and accurate elections, and a new Marine Division will operate ferry service, under legislation adopted today by the Metropolitan King County Council in connection with adoption of its 2008 King County Budget.
Nov. 19, 2007
Council adopts budget that funds critical upgrades to animal shelters, but leaves possibility of closure
The 2008 King County Budget adopted today by the Metropolitan King County Council includes funding for the most critical upgrades to the county’s animal shelter facilities and improvements to the provision of medical care, nutrition and socialization, while it considers the business decision, based upon progress made by the Executive’s Animal Care and Control Section, of whether to discontinue the provision of animal sheltering services.
Nov. 16, 2007
Budget panel recommends prudent 2008 spending plan
Members of the Metropolitan King County Council, meeting as the Operating Budget Committee, today voted unanimously to recommend their final draft of a $4.9 billion King County Budget that responds to the priorities voiced by citizens earlier this year to ensure public trust, enhance quality of life, and protect public health and safety. The budget stays within the property tax limits of Initiative 747, even though the state Supreme Court invalidated the initiative last week.
Nov. 14, 2007
Revenue votes unrelated to repeal of I-747
As the budget leadership team for the King County Council, we want to make clear that the revenue votes taken yesterday by Councilmembers have been in development for months and were in no way related to the unexpected ruling last week from the State Supreme Court on Initiative 747. The timing is strictly happenstance.
Nov. 13, 2007
Saving lives and improving public safety: Council adopts sales tax funding for mentally ill and drug dependent
After hearing from hundreds of speakers over the past year who urged action, the King County Council today enacted the one-tenth of one cent sales tax proposed by the County Executive to fund the strategies and programs outlined in King County’s Mental Illness and Drug Dependency Action Plan. The programs are designed to stabilize people suffering from mental illness and chemical dependency, diverting them from jails and emergency rooms by getting them proper treatment.
Nov. 13, 2007
Council to tighten security at King County Courthouse for safety of citizens and employees
In response to citizen concerns about personal safety when visiting the King County Courthouse as well as threats to County employees working there, the Metropolitan King County Council today took action to improve safety and security at the Courthouse and other County public facilities.
Nov. 13, 2007
Ferry District adopts work plan and funding for Vashon ferry, Water Taxi, and 5 demonstration routes across Lake Washington and Puget Sound
Nearly a century after a “Mosquito Fleet” of small boats linked the communities that ring Lake Washington and Puget Sound, the Board of the King County Ferry District today adopted a 2008 work plan, budget, and funding for operation of Vashon passenger-only ferry service, year-round operation of the popular Water Taxi, and five demonstration routes crossing those same bodies of water.
Nov. 13, 2007
Flood Control Zone District adopts work plan and funding to prevent Katrina-like flood disasters
The threat of catastrophic flooding and economic disaster like that seen in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina was addressed today by the King County Flood Control Zone District Board of Supervisors with adoption of a 2008 work plan and budget that funds a program to rebuild and maintain King County's aging system of 500 levees and hardened embankments that protect residents, businesses, public infrastructure and roads.
Nov. 13, 2007
Three financial experts named for comprehensive review of King County Investment Pool
The Metropolitan King County Council today appointed three local financial experts to an advisory panel that will conduct a comprehensive review of the $4 billion King County Investment Pool.
Nov. 8, 2007
Saving lives and improving public safety: Council Budget Committee recommends funding for mentally ill and drug dependent
The King County Council’s Operating Budget, Fiscal Management and Mental Health Committee today forwarded legislation to the Council recommending approval of the one-tenth of one cent sales tax authorized by the state legislature and proposed by the County Executive.
Oct. 22, 2007
Council selects “The Chinook Building” as name for New County Office Building
A name suggested by an 8th grader from Kirkland was unanimously selected today by the Metropolitan King County Council for a 13-story facility in downtown Seattle that until now known only as the “New County Office Building.”
Oct. 22, 2007
Ferguson: Continued challenges in King County Investment Pool show need for advisory panel
Metropolitan King County Councilmember Bob Ferguson said recent announcements of further downgrades within the $4 billion King County Investment Pool makes the Council’s creation of an Investment Pool Advisory Panel all the more important.
Oct. 22, 2007
Council approves new Professional Standards Division in the King County Sheriff’s Office
The Metropolitan King County Council today passed an ordinance allowing the creation of a new Professional Standards Division in the King County Sheriff’s Office. This new division would consolidate and manage all departmental functions related to the hiring, training, discipline, and development of department personnel.
Oct. 15, 2007
County Council pledges fiscal discipline and oversight as it prepares 2008 King County Budget
Budget leaders for the Metropolitan King County Council vow to exercise fiscal discipline while meeting the priorities identified by the public for the 2008 King County Budget, after receiving the Executive’s budget proposal today.
October 8, 2007
Council accepts action plan to divert mentally ill and drug dependent from jails and emergency rooms
“Today’s vote sends a message that the King County Council is dedicated to saving lives and protecting our community from the repeat offenses of desperate individuals who lack the treatment they need to become contributing members of our society.”
October 8, 2007
Council calls for urgent reforms at King County animal shelters, or an end to shelter service
“The Advisory Committee’s report is an indictment of the County’s inability to provide basic and humane treatment for the animals under its care. This legislation provides the Executive with a series of necessary and specific actions for bringing our animal shelters up to acceptable standards.”
October 8, 2007
Council creates advisory panel to conduct review of King County Investment Pool
“Recent events have exposed vulnerabilities with our $4 billion investment pool.This independent examination of our investment pool policies will help to ensure that these taxpayer investments are sound.”
October 8, 2007
Ferguson Secures Vans for Bothell, Shoreline and North Seattle Human Service and Recreation Providers
“These hardworking organizations provide valuable programs to North King County residents, but too many individuals cannot participate because they lack transportation. These vans will enable many new people to benefit from these organizations’ good work.”
October 8, 2007
County Council finds good homes for “retired” County vans
“I was struck by the impressive array of human services and outdoor recreation organizations that stand to benefit from the use of a retired Metro Vanpool van.”
October 1, 2007
Council to emphasize oversight and fiscal policies in reviewing 2008 proposed budget
“I believe government should budget based on priorities, and we listened to the priorities voiced at our Citizen Engagement forums earlier this year. We will continue to strengthen our financial policies and scrutinize the proposed budget to ensure accountability in the spending of public funds.”
September 7, 2007
Council rejects adoption of Initiative 25, lets it go to November ballot as submitted
“Rather than holding a special election in February, I support having this office stand for election in the August primary and November general election.”
September 7, 2007
Council adopts Initiative 24 to create volunteer “Citizen Councilor Networks”
“The large turnout and enthusiastic participation in the Citizen Budget Priorities initiative shows that the public wants to be involved in the process and not on the ‘outside looking in.’”
September 5, 2007
Council united in expressing condolences on the passing of former Congresswoman Jennifer Dunn
“Representative Dunn was a proud Republican but also a bipartisan leader on issues like the Wild Sky Wilderness Area and pipeline safety, and her public-spirited leadership helped us see public service as a noble calling. She brought great dignity to public office and was justifiably proud that her son Reagan chose to continue her legacy of serving the citizens of Washington State.”
September 4, 2007
Councilmembers concerned about County taking full responsibility for potential losses in investment pool
“The County cannot continue to accept responsibility for other sliding investments. Members of the pool realize that investments can be inherently risky, and in the future, we must all absorb the risk if other investments are devalued.”
September 4, 2007
Council calls on state Legislature to allow King County to increase auditing of elections
“Independent sources such as the Brennan Center for Justice say routine, random post-election audits are one of the best tools we have to safeguard our elections from error and fraud. The legislature should change state law to allow counties greater flexibility in conducting post-election audits so that we can take additional steps to ensure that every valid vote counts.”
September 4, 2007
Committee sends initiative to create “Citizen Councilor Networks” to full Council
“Maximum public involvement is the key to effective democracy .Citizens are looking for one more way to participate in government, and this measure promises an interesting new vehicle for citizen participation. This is a good government measure to engage the public on county issues that impact us all.”
July 30, 2007
Council names King County’s Regional Justice Center after the late Norm Maleng
“It is fitting that the man who was the face of criminal justice in King County for a generation will now always be remembered in a building that reflects the changing nature of the criminal justice system. Mr. Maleng’s support for programs that serve as an alternative for incarceration is reflected in the programs that are housed in the RJC.”
July 24, 2007
Ferguson works to secure support for Shoreline Seniors, YMCA, Youth and Chamber of Commerce
“I am honored to assist these four organizations, which are making a difference in our community.”
July 9, 2007
Council preserves voters’ right to secret ballot in vote-by-mail system
“As we continue to improve the County elections system, we must take particular care to ensure that citizens have the freedom to vote as they choose, and how they vote cannot be traced. This legislation helps ensure this goal as we move toward implementing new technology in our elections system.”
July 3, 2007
Voters to decide in November on six-year levy to continue life-saving Medic One services
“This levy proposal provides a higher level of service and more paramedic units, while ensuring appropriate oversight and accountability through annual audits and an independent advisory committee.”
July 2, 2007
Council confirms Sherril Huff as Director of Records, Elections and Licensing Services
“Sherril is the right fit to continue the improvement with King County's election system. She brings much-needed stability to that office and I look forward to working with her.”
June 15, 2007
Council Town Hall in Shoreline to examine
Mental Illness & Drug Dependency Action Plan
“This Town Hall is an opportunity for the public and Councilmembers to understand what it will take to get people into treatment and out of a jail cell. This is an effort that crosses jurisdictions and must involve a partnership between the public and government.”
June 8, 2007
Ferguson accelerates Business Access and Transit lanes for Shoreline in regional roads plan
Drivers will enjoy improved traffic flow along Aurora Avenue through Shoreline seven years earlier than expected under the final proposed Regional Transportation Investment District package adopted by the RTID Planning Committee at its June 8 meeting. The so-called Business Access and Transit lanes, or BAT lanes, championed by Metropolitan King County Councilmember Bob Ferguson, are part of the “Roads and Transit” package that is headed for the November ballot.
June 5, 2007
Council approves five-point plan for emergency preparedness
“Close coordination between different agencies, the private sector, and individual citizens is the key to an effective response. We listened to the citizens who were affected by the winter storm and this legislation responds to their call for better coordination between human service providers, businesses and government, while acknowledging the need for a coordinated shelter plan and traffic management plan to ensure that we are better prepared to handle the next disaster.”
May 31, 2007
Ferguson leads Council on County’s supplemental budget, children’s health funding
“It was clear what the people wanted. The Council is listening to those concerns and responding.”
May 29, 2007
Council appoints Dan Satterberg to serve as Acting Prosecuting Attorney for King County
"Dan Satterberg was Norm Maleng's handpicked chief of staff. He is the logical person to run the prosecutor's office during this difficult time of transition."
May 29, 2007
Council keeps sewer rate steady for 2008
"Homeowners deserve to benefit from King County's sound fiscal management. I am proud that we resisted a rate increase."
May 29, 2007
Council adopts comprehensive reforms for animal care and prevention of cruelty
"King County needs to take animal abuse seriously. Legislation to strengthen animal cruelty laws and protect animals in shelters is overdue and I am pleased to support it."
May 25, 2007
Statement of mourning from Councilmember Bob Ferguson on the passing of Norm Maleng
"I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our county's prosecutor, Norm Maleng. Norm was a symbol of justice for all of us in King County and especially those of us in the legal community."
May 7, 2007
Voters to decide in August on levy package to maintain County parks, expand open space and trails
“Sustainable funding is needed to keep our parks open, and to keep regional trails such as the Burke-Gilman along North Lake Washington, safe and well-maintained.”
May 7, 2007
Investing in our future: Council adopts public-private plan to improve children’s access to health care
“The Children’s Health Initiative takes another step forward to achieving this priority by providing the community outreach needed to bring children into the health care system to prevent illnesses before they become severe or life-threatening. I applaud the Executive for his leadership on this issue.”
May 7, 2007
Transit partnership to increase bus service to Children’s Hospital
“When I represented Children’s on the County Council I worked with the organization to increase transit service to and from the hospital and I am pleased that patients, caregivers, and their family and friends will have additional travel options thanks to this inaugural service partnership. I congratulate Children’s and Metro Transit on their partnership agreement and look forward to helping launch new service partnerships with other organizations and the cities I represent in the years to come.”
May 4, 2007
Ferguson and Sims secure funding for North and Northshore Public Health Clinics through 2008
“King County residents who depend on public clinics for their health care because they cannot afford adequate insurance can rest easier tonight knowing these clinics will be funded through 2008.”
April 30, 2007
County Council creates King County Ferry District to enable operation of local waterborne transit
“This Ferry District will provide us with the opportunity to expand our public transit beyond the shore and provide yet another option to driving.”
April 23, 2007
County residents cite public health clinics, alternatives to incarceration as their top budget priorities
“We heard that the people of King County want to prioritize programs that keep individuals healthy and provide alternatives to incarceration. For example, ensuring access to public health for the uninsured and underinsured was a real priority, and I will work to make that priority a part of the budget conversation.”
April 16, 2007
Council creates first countywide body for regional coordination and funding of flood control projects
“Since floods ignore jurisdictions, protecting lives and property is a regional issue.The advisory committee will have a vital role in flood control planning because they will represent the regional perspective on how to proceed with flood management.”
April 16, 2007
Financial policy panel ready to examine “fiscal health” of County to benefit taxpayers
“This is a good government initiative that increases our careful stewardship of the public’s money. The panel will bring an outside, expert perspective to the job of reviewing King County’s financial and debt policies.”
April 2, 2007
Council calls for review of election security plans by citizens and experts
“Computer technology has opened a new avenue for electronic tampering and fraud. It makes sense to let experts with specialized knowledge take a look at how we’re trying to protect our election system. Each panel will bring a unique perspective to the review and the result will be a thorough, comprehensive look at what will work and what we need to improve.”
March 28, 2007
Final Report on Citizen Budget Priorities to be released at Council Town Hall on Eastside
“We have taken a scientific approach to gathering the data that is part of this Town Hall. King County has a $4 billion annual budget, and we need to make sure we have the priorities of the people clearly in mind as we write the annual plan for spending that money.”
March 16, 2007
Share your views on how King County spends your tax dollars
“Last year, we made a commitment to let the public ‘behind the curtain’ of the budget process—these workshops are an opportunity to have a role in shaping our 2008 County budget.”
March 12, 2007
County Council Authorizes Lease of Renton Site for Consolidated County Elections Facility
“The Earlington Business Center will save us millions of dollars, have better parking, and will be ready by the end of this year, more than two years before we could finish new construction on the Goat Hill site.”
March 12, 2007
King County Takes Historic Vote to Adopt Official Logo in Image of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Today’s vote is the culmination of an effort that spans three decades, and I congratulate those who worked on making this new logo a reality. It is a living example of the ‘Beloved Community’ that Dr. King gave his life for and a reminder of why this logo is so important: because it embodies the bedrock democratic principles that we all believe in.”
March 7, 2007
Councilmember Ferguson Visits Past, Urges Queen Anne Students to Name County Building
“Just imagine, someday one person will eventually be able to tell his or her children: ‘that’s my building—I named it.’ Of course, I would be proud if that person was a fellow St. Anne’s alum.”
March 5, 2007
Councilmember Bob Ferguson Donates “Retired” Metro Vans to Shoreline Human Services Agencies
“Human services providers do a vital and sometimes thankless job. Hopefully these vans will help them accomplish their mission.”
February 23, 2007
Put the ball in the voters' court--Seattle PI op-ed by Bob Ferguson
"As a recipient of a 'Player of the Day' award at the Lenny Wilkens basketball camp many years ago, it gives me no pleasure to conclude that funding a fifth sports facility -- the most expensive basketball arena in the country -- is not at the top of my list of priorities."
February 20, 2007
Council Confirms Dr. David Fleming for Director of Public Health
“I am particularly impressed with his eagerness to speak directly with citizens on all matters regarding public health,” said Councilmember Bob Ferguson, who serves on the Board of Health. “Protecting public health is one of our highest priorities. I invite all people with questions about King County Public Health to attend our Town Hall in May and meet Dr. Fleming.”
February 13, 2007
Ferguson Brings Regional Arts and Heritage Community Together in Shoreline
“I have long admired the work of individuals and nonprofit organizations that bring performances, art exhibits, and festivals to our communities, and the dedicated volunteers who preserve local history for the enjoyment of all our citizens.”
January 29, 2007
Councilmembers Call for More Scrutiny of Elections Security Plan
“The next step requires that independent experts have the opportunity to thoroughly review the proposed security plan and that we respond to the warnings of experts and citizens who question the security of our elections systems.”
January 29, 2007
Ferguson and Patterson: Concern over Tight Turnaround for All-Mail Election on Viaduct
“You only have one chance to make a good first impression. I am concerned that with the tight timelines, a significant number of Seattle’s 133,000 regular poll voters will not be familiar with vote-by-mail and will miss the chance to voice their opinion on a critical issue of regional importance. That could have a lasting and negative impact on the County’s effort to convert to an all-mail voting system.”
January 26, 2007
Ferguson: $40 million for Shoreline in RTID Proposal “Major Boost for Shoreline’s Economic and Transit Heart”
“RTID’s proposed funding for Aurora Avenue improvements will open up the business heart of Shoreline while improving traffic flow along one of the busiest transportation corridors in the region.”
Janaury 22, 2007
County Council Approves Revised Northgate Park and Ride Package
“This agreement guarantees a critical element needed to tie together essential neighborhood attractions and components—including new green spaces, a new library and community center, a new and attractive shopping mall, an urban salmon stream, and attractive housing.”
January 16, 2007
Council Adopts New King County Flood Hazard Management Plan
“This is an important, positive first step to better protect our community. I look forward to working on the fiscal impacts on King County citizens as we move toward approving a financially prudent investment to control flooding.”
January 16, 2007
Public Health, Emergency Response Highlight County’s 2007 State Legislative Agenda
“The State’s renewed commitment to more adequately fund mental health treatment in King County is critical. Our county jail serves as a de facto mental institution; second in population only to Western State Hospital. We need the resources to provide treatment for non-violent offenders so we can help them get their lives turned around.”
January 11, 2007
"The jail as mental institution"--Seattle Times OpEd by Councilmember Bob Ferguson
"Common sense tells us that a lengthy jail stay, without treatment, only worsens the inmate's mental illness. No one wins — not the people who are jailed nor those who are paying for it."
January 8, 2007
King County Council to Engage Citizens on Budget Priorities and Performance of Government
“We will hear directly from the public on their priorities for how we spend their hard-earned tax dollars.This new, aggressive initiative will engage the public in a detailed, meaningful dialogue on how best to prioritize the County budget, and take our budget process to the next level.”
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