July 30, 2009
Councilmembers call for comprehensive approach to close Metro Transit deficit
“This is a comprehensive approach to address Metro’s funding crisis as painlessly as possible. Voters cannot afford more taxes right now. We are committed to finding efficiencies at Metro and making the hard choices to keep the buses rolling.”
July 20, 2009
Lambert proposes using technology to save money
“King County needs to expedite technology solutions that make government more accessible to the citizens and to invest in electronic operations that save time and money.”
June 29, 2009
Council calls for new rules to balance salmon habitat with swimmer safety
“The development of these new rules will create a better balance in the protection of both the safety of our citizens that use our rivers and streams and fish habitat.”
June 15, 2009
County Council recognizes effort to shed light on elder abuse
“Sadly, many cases of elder abuse involve family members. Many older people who are victimized by partners feel ashamed, embarrassed, depressed and afraid to confide in friends and family. Financial security issues also prevent older women from reporting abuse. Fortunately, King County has many resources available to assist seniors experiencing abuse.”
May 26, 2009
Council approves new life for retired vans
“Over the years, van donations have helped our citizens in a variety of ways such as offering transportation options for senior citizens, creating transit options in areas like Skykomish which has no bus service, and helping connect children to tutoring services. The donation of these vans maximizes our resources and meaningfully assists our community organizations and citizens in need.”
May 18, 2009
Council appoints Kurt Triplett as King County Executive
“I look forward to working with the Executive on giving King County’s unincorporated areas the attention and assistance that they deserve. In addition, I hope he will work closely with the district representatives on the Council both on budget and policy issues. At this time of economic stress, we need to weigh all costs carefully and be sure they are prioritized. It will take teamwork and cooperation to develop a budget within existing revenue.”
May 18, 2009
Efficiency in government, public safety, health and human services, and physical environment
top Council’s 2010 budget priorities
“This motion prioritizes public safety for our local and regional governmental duties. Citizens need to feel safe in their homes, businesses, and in the community. This is a central role of government.”
May 11, 2009
Extension of homebuilding permits by County Council will aid struggling housing market
“Allowing this temporary extension of building permits keeps future development costs down, and that translates into savings for homebuyers as well. This is a common-sense, no-cost way for King County to stimulate restoration of construction jobs and production of affordable housing.”
May 4, 2009
Council moves swiftly to fund protection of Raging River open space
“The most efficient and important flood storage system is in all of our forests, which operate as sponges to soak up stormwater. Preserving this corridor and this forest will help limit flooding for future generations.”
May 4, 2009
Council recognizes May as Arts Education Month in King County
“We are fortunate to have a community so rich in fine and performing arts and cultural institutions that share their vision with students. When finances are short, arts often are the first things to be cut from budgets, but we applaud the advocates who tirelessly remind us how arts education is valuable and essential for student success.”
April 27, 2009
Heightened local monitoring is underway for swift detection of swine flu, King County Council is told
“Preparation for a flu pandemic includes staying at home when you are sick, washing your hands, and practicing social distancing measures. This situation is a good reminder that everyone always should be prepared for any emergency, with a supply of food, water and any medications you regularly take.”
April 24, 2009
Councilmember Lambert presents proclamation in honor of SIDS Awareness Day
“Because SIDS deaths continue to occur, it is so important to educate parents of infants about prevention methods. Providing a safe sleep environment – in a crib with no blankets, toys, bumpers or bedding – is one of the most important things that parents, grandparents and caregivers can do to keep their infants safe and healthy.”
April 23, 2009
Three Eastside efforts earn Green Globe Awards
“These model efforts are teaching children, parents and the public about the need for sustainable practices and the benefits not only to our environment but also to our economy and quality of life.”
April 6, 2009
King County Council implements greater transparency in County budget numbers
“Citizens are watching every penny in their own budgets, and they should be just as informed about the expenditure of their tax dollars. These expanded reporting requirements will allow more informed public response to our budget proposals. More transparency is a big step toward increasing public engagement in our budgeting process.”
March 17, 2009
King County Council among national leaders in providing online access to its meetings
“King County provides some of the most basic of all government functions, from buses to courts and jails, and it is wonderful to enable citizens to participate in our democracy by watching from the comfort of their homes at all hours of the day and night and seeing for themselves how we are working for them."
March 9, 2009
Stockpiled sandbags, better communication and faster cleanup top County Council’s response
to future floods
“It is important for all Councilmembers to learn about what worked and what can be improved from our flood survivors – the experts. We were able to translate the many suggestions into action items in a very short period of time. This is a model example of democracy in action, which will make us better prepared for the next disaster.”
March 4, 2009
King County Councilmembers praise court victory against rural clearing limits in the Critical Areas Ordinance
“The state Supreme Court is to be commended for acknowledging that one size does not fit all properties when it comes to environmental issues. With this resolution, we now can get down to work on regulations that are flexible enough to protect the environment and also respect private property rights.”
March 2, 2009
County celebrates Women’s History Month
“It’s exciting to realize that young women now grow up dreaming to be a doctor, the president of a corporation, or even a councilmember. I enjoy seeing what my daughters and granddaughters are doing and planning to do with career and family choices. Women have such varied experiences, such as being inventors, authors, scientists and astronauts, and in Washington state we have one of the highest ratios of women elected officials. This progress in equity allows everyone’s contributions and ideas to come together to make a balanced society.”
February 10, 2009
Lambert to unveil flood response proposals at Town Hall meeting in Carnation
At the Metropolitan King County Council’s Town Hall meeting Wednesday in Carnation, Councilmember Kathy Lambert will unveil two flood response proposals she is co-sponsoring to help flood-prone communities limit damage and speed recovery.
January 28, 2009
County Councilmembers form suburban caucus
“The formation of regional caucuses will ensure that issues of concern to specific constituencies and geographic areas will get the scrutiny and attention they deserve.”
January 28, 2009
After the storms: County Council Town Hall to review response to flooding and severe weather
“After touring flooded homes in the Snoqualmie Valley, and being snowbound during the holidays, I heard and thought of many ideas about how we can be better prepared for winter weather emergencies. I know that many residents in the Snoqualmie Valley still are cleaning up after the flood disaster earlier this month. I look forward to learning more from the experts, our citizens, about how the county can improve the preparation for disasters and better coordinate recovery efforts, as well as what was successful.”
January 27, 2009
Council told of first drop in County jail population in five years
“Society benefits in many ways, from lower costs to lower crime rates, when alternatives to incarceration such as treatment for substance abuse and mental illness keep people from becoming involved in the criminal justice system. We are helping to break the cycle in and out of jail.”
January 26, 2009
Free flood debris disposal extended
“With flood waters still lingering for weeks in some areas, these homeowners need additional time to clean up after this disaster, and King County is ready to assist with debris disposal.”
January 12, 2009
Council waives bidding requirements for emergency repairs from flooding and snowstorms
“For residents who have experienced some of the highest water flows in decades, this opportunity to dispose of flood-damaged debris will help in the recovery from the devastation.”
January 5, 2009
Council to review agreement with Department of Justice on improvements at the King County Jail
“The negotiations with the Department of Justice will provide opportunities to continue to improve and implement more current standards in some areas. With timelines based on outcomes, the jail will be able to show it already has attained many successes.”
December 8, 2008
Rural businesses receive a boost: County Council provides flexibility for home-based retail sales
“In this age of technology, some business can be done in-home without impacting neighbors. Local sales of equipment and supplies needed in the rural area will also help ease traffic congestion by reducing the amount of driving needed to access these resources. This revision brings our land-use codes in line with technological advances for retail sales.”
November 24, 2008
Budget focuses on criminal justice, human services and local government priorities
“Our priorities for public safety, health and our quality of life were applied to every decision.”
November 24, 2008
Highest priorities of public safety, health and quality of life protected by the King County Council in 2009 adopted budget
“We were able to restore full funding for alternative sentencing programs that help criminal justice and human services work together to save money, reduce recidivism and change lives. We also restored important local government services to rural residents by keeping Sheriff’s office storefronts and units that fight drug and gang activities, and by maintaining agriculture and forestry units that support our valuable natural resources.”
November 17, 2008
Council finds savings in Metro budget that enable delay of half of bus fare increase
“This effort to bring fare box recovery to our target rate will help our Transit Division weather the volatility of fuel prices, as well as ensure continued service on existing routes.”
November 17, 2008
Council acts to prevent conflicts of interest for new office of King County Elections Director
“These general qualifications will help ensure that our elections director remains impartial as well as knowledgeable and qualified to conduct the most fair and accurate elections.”
November 14, 2008
Farm pads used to save livestock from flooding
“Amid the dangers of the flooding, it was very encouraging to hear reports and to see video and news coverage of farms where animals had been saved by taking refuge on the higher ground created by a farm pad.”
November 14, 2008
Major public safety, construction and repair projects are completed ahead of schedule
“Our new projects performed well during the recent floods. This year’s repairs to the Mason-Thorson Levee, on the Snoqualmie River, were important in helping to prevent flooding in North Bend. Our work is making a difference already.”
November 14, 2008
Councilmember Lambert recognizes Adoption Day
“Adoptive families can provide the kind of stability and caring that makes a powerful difference in the life of a child. This is our chance to thank and congratulate all adoptive families who have welcomed a child into their home, and to reach out to other adults and encourage them to consider adoption.”
November 7, 2008
Citizen panel praised for recommendations that paid off with a smooth day at the polls
“In the past four years, we have refocused our elections system on counting votes like banks count money, with accuracy, security and reconciliation.”
November 3, 2008
Council suspends “Walk and Bike” employee incentive program to save money in general fund
“We need to weigh all programs in light of public safety and service delivery to citizens. The timing for this is just not right.”
October 27, 2008
Statement from County Council leadership on unpaid employee furlough
The legislative branch is committed to making similar sacrifices and ensure that every agency does its part to preserve core services.
October 27, 2008
“Extinction is not an option” in fight to save Puget Sound orcas and salmon
“The marine ecosystem needs attention, but the vast scope of that challenge is not something King County can tackle alone. All of our partners need to share in the commitment to ensuring that salmon and orcas can continue to survive in Puget Sound.”
October 22, 2008
Employee incentive program targeted for budget savings
“The County Executive is expanding this incentive program at a time we are contemplating cuts to programs such as drug enforcement, domestic violence, child custody kidnappings, vice, and police investigations. It is clear that protecting the public needs to take a higher priority than encouraging walking or biking to work.”
October 20, 2008
Audit recommends improvements in King County code enforcement to improve relations with property owners
“This audit validates many of the ongoing concerns that residents of the unincorporated area have shared with me about inconsistency in dealing with and communicating about compliance actions.”
October 20, 2008
County Council makes room for athletics, model airplanes and general public use at Sixty Acres Park
“Parks has developed agreements with many groups to share in the efforts to keep our county green and open for public usage and exercise. I hope soon we will see that, with cooperation and teamwork, we all can enjoy the wonderful area of Sixty Acres.”
October 20, 2008
County Council creates Advisory Committee to monitor $4 billion King County Investment Pool
“It always is important to take advantage of all the financial expertise that is available to us in order to safeguard King County’s investments, especially during turbulent financial periods.”
September 30, 2008
Twelve things King County can do now to cut expenses and narrow budget shortfall
“Providing basic services to citizens needs to be our priority as we examine the expenditures in our budget.”
September 23, 2008
County Council, local farmers celebrate harvest
“Locally grown food is fresher, healthier and requires fewer natural resources for transportation and packaging. We are fortunate to have such productive agricultural areas so close and accessible to our large urban centers. The Harvest Celebration is a good opportunity to recognize the contributions of farmers to our quality of life.”
September 22, 2008
Councilmembers draw attention to domestic violence prevention
“Among women, domestic violence also is the leading cause of death in the workplace. It is important to remember the lives of these women, and also to encourage survivors as well as raising awareness about the continuing threat of domestic violence.”
August 4, 2008
Council adopts public safety, health and quality of life as top priorities for 2009 budget deliberations
“King County has an obligation to provide local government services to those who live outside of incorporated cities.”
July 28, 2008
East King County won’t get Regional Voting Center
“Some of the voters in these areas have never voted by mail and want to be able to continue voting in person. If we are going to make our elections accessible, we should do it in a meaningful manner that serves King County’s rural areas as well as the urban core.”
July 28, 2008
One more proposed King County Charter amendment placed on November ballot
“It is important that the amendment process remain accessible to the people so that our government can continue to serve our changing needs, and I believe the extending the signature-gathering period meets those needs.”
July 28, 2008
Public safety, health and quality of life proposed as top priorities for Council’s 2009 budget deliberations
“For 368,000 citizens, we are their city council and the direct provider of police, roads and land-use services. After hearing from many of our residents in unincorporated areas, I am committed to ensuring our budget puts a priority on funding adequate service levels to protect public safety and health for those who depend on King County.”
July 10, 2008
Council Republicans call for repeal of Critical Area Ordinance’s rural area clearing limits
“Thousands of families who live in rural King County have been prohibited from using their property, even when that property does not have critical areas. This unanimous court decision gives us an opportunity to revisit this county policy and create a strategy that balances environmental concerns and private property rights.”
July 7, 2008
County Council Republicans hail court reversal of Critical Areas Ordinance
“With this ruling, private property no longer will be unlawfully encumbered by the County’s far-reaching Critical Areas Ordinance. This ruling will help raise discussions and awareness, as well as define best available science and how to lawfully protect the environment. We need a better balance between the environment, what is scientifically proven, what protects farming, and our citizens’ property rights.”
July 7, 2008
Council calls for extension of regional jail contract and joint strategy with cities on future jail needs
“For many non-violent offenders with drug and alcohol addictions, treatment instead of punishment is less expensive and also more effective and compassionate. Working with our city and state partners, we can expand community corrections options and integrate our criminal justice systems to keep costs and crime rates down.”
June 30, 2008
Farm pads now a permanent protection in Agricultural Production Districts
“After seeing the devastation to Snoqualmie Valley farms caused by the November 2006 flooding, I am pleased that King County has been able to work with our farmers to provide this solution. If constructed under these specific standards, farm pads are proven protections against agricultural flood losses that do not make flooding worse.”
June 23, 2008
Conservation and athletic fields in store for portion of Tollgate Farm
“With the transfer of Tollgate Farm Park to the City of North Bend, this 13.7-acre piece of the of 356-acre historic site will allow a wider variety of relaxation and recreational uses for Snoqualmie Valley residents. This is an excellent way to showcase this valuable resource as a regional recreational gem."
June 9, 2008
County Council approves grant plan for pedestrian improvements on Issaquah-Fall City Road
“Right now, students must walk on the narrow paved shoulder with no separation from traffic on the 45 mph roadway. These improvements will become even more urgent when the school is converted to a middle school in the fall of 2009, and students as young as 11 years old will be walking to school.”
June 2, 2008
Twelve amendments to County Charter put before King County Council for ballot consideration
“Many of the issues brought forth by the Commission continue to be debated, and then will be presented to the citizens. The charter is our constitution, and it needs to be updated to meet the growing needs of our county.”
May 27, 2008
Farm Pad project helps protect Snoqualmie Valley farms against flooding
“The Snoqualmie Valley is subjected to regular flooding that damages crops, drowns livestock and destroys farm equipment, hay, seeds, bulbs and farm supplies. If constructed under these specific standards, farm pads are proven protections against agricultural flood losses that do not exacerbate flooding.”
May 27, 2008
County Council confirms members of advisory committee on permitting
“It is important that citizen oversight occur to ensure DDES upholds fairness, consistency and reasonableness in its permitting policies and processes.”
May 12, 2008
Council places Skykomish Fire District annexation vote on August ballot
“I am pleased that this remote community within King County will have the opportunity to vote on better access to fire protection and medical services.”
May 5, 2008
Council preserves options for rail and trail in historic agreement with Port to bring Eastside Rail Corridor into public ownership
“For economic sustainability, we need to continue using this resource both for transportation and for freight traffic. It is exciting to see the bicycle, trail and transportation communities come together with a multimodal vision for this corridor.”
May 5, 2008
County Council calls for rebid of federal tanker contract
“Aircraft manufacturing is an important industry for our area. We need to be proactive in making sure we can keep these living-wage jobs in our area.”
March 24, 2008
More bus service on major routes throughout the county thanks to new transit partnerships
“I’m excited to have more bus hours coming to the Eastside. As gas prices increase, we need to expand the transportation options available.”
March 17, 2008
Council weighs future of County animal shelters after hearing a second disturbing report
“This scathing report should serve as a catalyst for reorganization of the service delivery system, and perhaps even a charter amendment providing the Council a role in holding department heads accountable, so that we can prevent this kind of failure from occurring again in the future.”
March 10, 2008
Sammamish park transfer meets growing need for Eastside playfields
“With this transfer of 30 acres to the City of Sammamish, King County lives up to its agreement to share this jewel of a park among diverse needs, and the City of Sammamish takes on responsibility for developing the county’s master planned area for active recreation needs.”
March 6, 2008
Technology innovations bring awards to King County Superior Court and District Court
“This project simplifies access to legal records, saves money, and serves the cause of justice. Computerized records are an important step in streamlining court procedures and making records available to all involved parties. This concept is exactly what technology should be used to accomplish.”
Feb. 25, 2008
Property owners have new avenue of appeal of County permit fees
“This new procedure will improve the county’s responsiveness to our customers and ensure that they have an important opportunity for their concerns to be heard.”
Jan. 28, 2008
Oversight panel will improve security at Courthouse and County agencies
“I am very concerned about reports of security-related incidents by people and employees using the King County Courthouse and other County offices in downtown Seattle.”
January 21, 2008
Lambert among those honored for protection of cultural resources -- Woodinville Weekly
The Washington Trust for Historic Preservation has announced the recipients of its third annual Landmark Deeds Award for Public Service.
Jan. 7, 2008
Human services, public health highlight King County’s 2008 State Legislative Agenda
“Housing production must catch up with population and job growth while also protecting our natural resources and open spaces. We can produce badly needed affordable housing if the state is willing to fully implement the balance between these goals directed by the Growth Management Act.”
November 19, 2007
King County Council adopts 2008 budget that respects property tax limits of I-747
“I am pleased that this budget improves public safety, the primary responsibility of local government. The funding for the Flood Control Zone District will allow us to be proactive in preventing our flooding problems, including eight federally declared flood disasters since 1990. Additional funding for the King County Sheriff’s Office aims to implement the critical recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Panel to improve oversight and training. We need to have adequate resources for maintaining deputy response times in the unincorporated areas of King County.”
November 19, 2007
County Council approves next step in DDES reform
“Simplifying these rules will go a long way towards helping people be in compliance with the law. People will now be given the information they need to comply with our very complex land use rules.”
November 19, 2007
County Council improves management of King County elections by creating separate Elections Division
“King County voters are very concerned about accountability and accuracy in elections, as they demonstrated earlier this month in passing Initiative 25 calling for an elected auditor. Good government requires that the conduct of elections be a focal point for one manager, whether elected or appointed, without the distraction of other unrelated agencies to supervise.”
November 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.
November 13, 2007
Flood Control Zone District adopts work plan and funding to prevent Katrina-like flood disasters
“The devastating floods of a year ago are a good reminder about the importance of our infrastructure. Our businesses, our farmers and our residents depend on the integrity of our levee system to prevent catastrophic damages and to keep our communities safe. When our river communities suffer, we all are affected. It is much more cost-effective to prevent flooding than to repair the damage afterward.”
November 13, 2007
Council to tighten security at King County Courthouse for safety of citizens and employees
“We are fortunate to have dedicated staff at the Courthouse, but they need support and assistance to ensure our government functions can continue unimpeded by safety concerns. This investment in added security equipment and action planning will help King County respond proactively and effectively to any threats and prevent any future tragedies.”
November 13, 2007
Three financial experts named for comprehensive review of King County Investment Pool
“Recent events in the commercial paper market have led to the sudden and unprecedented downgrade of three of the Investment Pool’s commercial paper holdings. The Advisory Panel’s review will help to ensure that the County’s investment practices are well-equipped to deal with these uncertainties and any future market disruptions.”
October 16, 2007
"Flood-control improvements protect all county residents"--Seattle Times OpEd with Councilmember Larry Philips
"We are all very concerned about tax burdens, but as we learned from Hurricane Katrina, making this reasonable commitment to repairing thelevees and implementing other recommendations identified in the Flood Hazard Management Plan ensures that we are doing all that can be done to protect our homes, businesses, roads and our economy."
October 15, 2007
County Council pledges fiscal discipline and oversight as it prepares 2008 King County Budget
“The County’s Charter provides 45 days to deal with our $4 billion budget. Since the Council has the power of the purse, we need to extend that process so elected Councilmember’s have time to prioritize how the taxpayers hard earned money is spent. Extending this 45 day period is one of several needed charter changes.”
October 8, 2007
Council accepts action plan to divert mentally ill and drug dependent from jails and emergency rooms
“This shift toward recovery instead of just punishment already is a proven successful model.Not only is it more humane, it also is less expensive to provide mental health and substance abuse treatment instead of funding beds in hospitals and jails, and increasing court hearings. Implementation of this plan will save taxpayer money now being spent on criminal justice and emergency medical services.”
October 8, 2007
County Council finds good homes for “retired” County vans
“This van donation program represents a great example of recycling. It is an excellent use of our resources to assist programs that serve disadvantaged youth, especially in the Snoqualmie Valley where transportation options are so limited. The reuse of these vans also eliminates the need for single-vehicle trips, which reduces traffic congestion and pollution, while also helping these youth programs to serve more young people.”
October 1, 2007
Council adopts sustainable operational and financing model for provision of public health services
“This is a huge step toward building a more stable and efficient public health system that will serve the needs of all our citizens, including the most vulnerable in our community.”
October 1, 2007
Council to emphasize oversight and fiscal policies in reviewing 2008 proposed budget
“We must continue tending to our regional infrastructure needs and keeping our communities safe, but we also need to focus on local government services for the 360,000 citizens who live in unincorporated areas.”
September 7, 2007
Council saves taxpayer dollars but delays vote on Elections Director
"This issue has been debated since the 2004 election. It now is time to move forward with a public vote. Although this two-step process delays the public’s final vote on whether or not to install a non-partisan Auditor to 2009, it is a major step towards giving the voters the chance to choose whether or not they want this office to be elected.”
September 7, 2007
Council adopts Initiative 24 to create volunteer “Citizen Councilor Networks”
"We are very much looking for ways to engage the citizens. I do believe this will be helpful as long as we are not using taxpayer dollars. I will look forward to working with our citizen volunteers to come up with topics for review and to ensure unincorporated areas are well represented."
September 5, 2007
Council united in expressing condolences on the passing of former Congresswoman Jennifer Dunn
“Her long service to the citizens of Washington State and her dedication to public service is legendary. I often sought her counsel and advice about bringing diverse groups together to reach consensus. Her passing is a huge loss and I personally will miss her greatly.”
September 4, 2007
Gang suppression unit proposed for King County Sheriff’s Office
"King County needs to dedicate the resources that will make it very clear to gangs that King County is not a gang-friendly place for them to operate. Enforcement is just one piece, but an important one, in our broader efforts to put a high value on education and succeeding in school while also supporting families and keeping young people from getting involved in gangs."
September 4, 2007
Councilmembers concerned about County taking full responsibility for potential losses in investment pool
“This is not just a local issue. Many municipalities across the country are also potentially facing this problem.We will continue to monitor and work together with other municipalities to make sure we have explored all possible methods to protect our investments.”
September 4, 2007
County Council authorizes statistical sampling method for verifying signatures on initiative petitions
“This method will make the verification process more streamlined, which will allow the Council more time to consider initiatives before the deadline for placing them on the ballot.The current verification process is burdensome, costly and lengthy. We can and should speed up the process and reduce costs, without sacrificing accuracy, to provide more time for review and deliberation on the issues.”
July 30, 2007
Snoqualmie Valley farmers get tools to protect against winter flooding
“The fertile Snoqualmie Valley has a rich and proud farming heritage, and these measures will help preserve that tradition as well as the Valley’s economic engine."
July 30, 2007
Council names King County’s Regional Justice Center after the late Norm Maleng
“In King County, Norm Maleng's name is synonymous with fairness and justice. It is most appropriate that his name be associated with this facility, where defendants can get a second chance through Drug Court, and where domestic violence victims can find safety and a new start. The Maleng Justice Center will serve as a constant reminder that we are not here only to mete out punishment, but to serve the best interests of justice.”
July 30, 2007
Council recognizes legacy of Kathryn Taylor by renaming equestrian park in her honor
“Kathryn was a tireless advocate for this region’s equestrian community, reminding everyone that King County should always celebrate its rural heritage, and that heritage includes horses. This park is just a small part of Kathryn’s legacy. Her enduring legacy is a trail system that guarantees that horses—and their riders—will always have a place to ride.”
July 9, 2007
Council appoints Dan Satterberg to fill vacancy of King County Prosecuting Attorney
“He has more than two decades of experience in the Prosecutor's Office and was trained by Norm himself. He has the knowledge base, knows the county well, and has the heart to put the human touch on justice.
June 25, 2007
Councilmember's ordinance enables rescue of boy with broken legs
In response to the November 2006 record flooding event, Councilmember Lambert flew over the Snoqualmie Valley in the Sheriff's Office helicopter and learned that it was not equipped with a rescue hoist in case any stranded residents needed evacuation. In the past, King County has had to rely on military helicopters for rescue missions. Councilmember Lambert submitted a budget amendment to purchase a hoist, install it, and train the helicopter crew. The funding was approved and the equipment was demonstrated and put into service earlier this spring. On June 23, the hoist was used for its first real emergency rescue.
June 25, 2007
King County Council approves regional “Roads and Transit” Plan for submittal to voters in November
“This package, which has been developed over six years with all three counties working together, gives the citizens the opportunity to decide the future of transportation in this region. Reducing traffic congestion so people can spend more time with their families is an important part of our quality of life.”
June 18, 2007
Sims proposes Eastside transit boost and announces changes when downtown Seattle tunnel reopens
“Transit Now will bring more frequent bus service to our area on the Eastside. It will help our communities get to work and back more quickly. These improvements mean we will have more time to be home with our families rather than time spent in traffic.”
June 5, 2007
Council approves five-point plan for emergency preparedness
“The scale of these storms was unprecedented, and District 3, which covers 1,043 square miles, still is recovering from the affects of the storms. But we learned much from the experiences and used citizen suggestions to compile this work plan for improving King County’s response and coordination efforts. I appreciate the participation and collaboration that went into this effort.”
May 30, 2007
Lambert’s kennel-free boarding ordinance gives pet owners options
“Pet owners have told me about the benefits of allowing dogs to socialize and play in a home-like setting that is less stressful and results in less barking and noise than a traditional kennel. This addition to King County’s land-use laws is most appropriate because rural areas are better suited for most animal services than densely populated urban areas.”
May 29, 2007
Council appoints Dan Satterberg to serve as Acting Prosecuting Attorney for King County
"I have no doubt that he will be able to carry on the legacy of justice with compassion that Norm Maleng established for King County . We are fortunate that Norm left us so well prepared, which was a hallmark of his incomparable service to King County."
May 25, 2007
Statement of mourning from Councilmember Kathy Lambert on the passing of Norm Maleng
"He was a man of integrity in all his dealings. He was a prayerful man who believed in all this county could be. His faith guided him always and was a source of strength for him in the decisions he had to make on the Ridgway case and many others. "
May 7, 2007
Dunn and Lambert: Open space purchases a secondary tax priority
“This is not the proper time to expand county land acquisition. We need to rely on our other non-profit partners who acquire open spaces while we focus on local, core government functions requiring our attention.”
April 24, 2007
Sheriff's Helicopter Rescue Hoist Now Mission-Ready!
The new rescue hoist for the Sheriff's Office Air Support Unit is now mission ready and the crew can be deployed to rescue persons from dangerous or hard to reach locations.
April 23, 2007
County residents cite public health clinics, alternatives to incarceration as their top budget priorities
“It is great to see so many citizens giving input on what services they value most and rating the level of customer service they receive. It is indeed valuable information. As our population and expenses continue to grow, it is more important than ever to make sure our spending is targeted carefully. These priorities now will go to the county Executive as he begins the process of developing the 2008 budget.”
March 26, 2007
Councilmember Lambert studies advanced waste disposal techniques
“It is very exciting to see what our friends across the ocean are doing with sustainable energy and reusing and conserving natural resources. I feel like a got a PhD in a week.”
March 12, 2007
County Council Authorizes Lease of Renton Site for Consolidated County Elections Facility
“Either site would allow consolidation of elections operations to improve speed and accuracy of counting ballots, especially for the implementation of all-mail voting. But the lower cost and faster timeline for getting the Renton site operational gives it the higher priority. I’ve heard from citizens that they want assurance that their votes are counted accurately. Also, the central location and connections to the transportation system should help improve accessibility.”
March 9, 2007
Councilmember Lambert Accepts National Award to Washington Counties for Efforts to End Homelessness
“The efforts to end homelessness have been bipartisan, with a broad spectrum of government, faith communities, non-profits, business and the general public agreeing that a lack of adequate shelter is an issue of human dignity, not a political question.”
February 26, 2007
Council Adopts Policy Framework for Public Health
"Our new Public Health Director, Dr. David Fleming, already has contributed a fresh set of eyes and added new focus to our policy framework with the concept of the three Ps – promotion, prevention and provision,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert, chair of the Council’s Law, Justice and Human Services Committee.
February 23, 2007
Emergency Options Outlined at North Bend Town Hall Meeting
Councilmember Lambert congratulated residents and public officials in the Snoqualmie Valley for their teamwork in responding to emergency needs such as securing November election ballots, setting up an emergency triage and fire unit in Preston, and giving neighbor-to-neighbor assistance during the consecutive severe winter weather events.
February 20, 2007
Council Confirms Dr. David Fleming for Director of Public Health
“Last week’s hearing made it extra clear to all of us that Dr. Fleming is the right choice for the job,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert, chair of the County Council’s Law, Justice and Human Services Committee. “He brings many assets from his work on state, national and international health issues. That, combined with his can-do attitude, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Public Health with vision, insight, and a broad perspective on how to most effectively promote the health of King County residents.”
February 15, 2007
Joint Panel Recommends Confirmation of Dr. David Fleming as Director of Public Health
“Dr. Fleming’s reach extends far beyond King County,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert, chair of the County Council’s Law, Justice and Human Services Committee. “His work on state, national and international levels makes him the ideal candidate to lead Public Health with vision, insight, and a broad perspective on how to most effectively promote the health of King County residents.”
February 15, 2007
Policy Framework for Public Health Recommended for Adoption
“A coordinated public health framework will play a fundamental role in how our public health department prioritizes programs and how our Council and Executive make budget decisions,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert, chair of the Council’s Law, Justice and Human Services Committee. “We can address many health concerns through public education, such as tobacco cessation and good nutrition. Other health challenges may require that we provide health services throughout the population, such as emergency care and immunization distribution. This framework ensures that our decisions are guided by principles that have been thoughtfully and collaboratively created.”
February 8, 2007
Lambert to Host Town Hall Meeting on Storm Response
“During the past few weeks, I have heard from hundreds of residents affected by this disaster about lessons learned. Effective communication about the status of the emergency response and resources available has been the top issue among my constituents. Their experiences will be very helpful in informing efforts to improve emergency response plans among government agencies, utilities and private businesses.”
January 16, 2007
Council Adopts New King County Flood Hazard Management Plan
“Under this plan, we will have the highest federal rating for flood protection in the nation, which translates into a 40-percent discount on flood insurance premiums for King County residents. It will allow for important maintenance on levee projects that originally were built in the 1960s and have experienced significant wear and tear over the past few flood seasons. When regular maintenance is put off, we need to catch up with some repair projects. This work will help protect the residents of King County, as well as those businesses and farms that depend on effective flood control to continue operating.”
January 16, 2007
Public Health, Emergency Response Highlight County’s 2007 State Legislative Agenda
“This agenda requests more help for children involved in the justice system through programs that currently are overwhelmed. We need more funding for Court-Appointed Special Advocates to assist abused and neglected children who are going through the court process. In addition, we want the state to pay for more of the state-mandated services for children who are deemed at-risk youth or truants under the Becca Bill.”
January 8, 2007
King County Council to Engage Citizens on Budget Priorities and Performance of Government
“I am encouraged by the addition of this tool to evaluate what services the public really wants government to provide, and not to provide.”