2007 news archive

This news archive is provided for historical purposes only. Information and links may be outdated or inaccurate.

• Dec. 31: Food worker card training and testing schedule for 2008
  Public Health - Seattle & King County announced the 2008 schedule for training and testing sessions for food handlers needing a Food Worker Card. The full schedule is available at your.kingcounty.gov/health/foodsfty/schedule.htm....

• Dec. 28: $23 million awarded for affordable and supportive housing projects countywide- King County
  Responding to the urgent need for affordable housing and stronger supports for homeless individuals and families most at risk of homelessness, King County Executive Ron Sims today announced $23 million in grants and loans to fund 25 housing and supportive...

• Dec. 24: Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel closure continues
  The Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel will not reopen Wednesday, Dec. 26, and remains closed until further notice due to computer problems....

• Dec. 21: Thinking of a pet for the holidays? Think pet certificate instead
  King County Animal Care and Services has gift certificates for last minute shoppers who want to give the gift of a pet through this responsible pet ownership program....

• Dec. 21: Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel remains closed through Dec. 25
  The Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel will remain closed through Tuesday, Dec. 25 due to computer problems and the Christmas holiday....

• Dec. 21: King County added to federal flood relief
  Federal help is on the way for King County residents recovering from damage caused by the recent flooding. Today the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared King County eligible for individual assistance for the recent series of storms hitting...

• Dec. 21: News Release: King County watersheds share $8.3 million in state funds for salmon habitat protection, restoration
  Habitat for salmon and other wildlife in King County's four major watersheds will see added improvements thanks to grants from the state Salmon Recovery Funding Board (SRFB)....

• Dec. 20: Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel to remain closed through Friday
  The Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel will remain closed through Friday, 12/21 due to ongoing computer problems....

• Dec. 20: King County encourages residents to recycle their Christmas trees
  King County encourages residents to take advantage of the many options for recycling Christmas trees, instead of throwing the tree in the garbage....

• Dec. 19: King County and Pasado's Safe Haven rescue emaciated farm animals in Covington- King County
  King County Animal Care and Control investigators are working with law enforcement officials on a case involving a large number of emaciated livestock and fowl found in unhealthy conditions at a Covington property....

• Dec. 18: First rate increases in 9 years will help modernize King County"s solid waste transfer stations
  For the first time in nine years, King County solid waste rates will increase for the disposal of garbage at transfer stations. Much-needed safety and efficiency improvements to the 40-year-old solid waste handling system are the main drivers of the incre...

• Dec. 18: Holiday heating and decorating: Make your home fire safe this season
  The King County Fire Marshal Division of the Department of Development and Environmental Services is warning people to be safe with fire this holiday season....

• Dec. 17: Regional leaders select Sims to chair Puget Sound Partnership board
  King County Executive Ron Sims has been selected to chair the Puget Sound Partnership"s 27-member Ecosystem Coordination Board....

• Dec. 17: Anne Watanabe appointed to King County Board of Ethics- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims this week appointed Anne Watanabe to an open position on the county's Board of Ethics....

• Dec. 17: King County adds Elizabeth Ford as Labor Relations Manager- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims today announced the addition of Elizabeth Ford to lead the Human Resources Division's Labor Relations Section....

• Dec. 14: Dozens of last-minute gift ideas available with King County's Waste Free Holidays program
  Stumped by what to give to loved ones and friends this holiday season? Or perhaps you're the type who always seems to wait until the last minute to take care of that long gift list?...

• Dec. 14: Windstorm anniversary highlights interdependencies
  On the one-year anniversary of one of the most severe windstorms to ever hit the region, infrastructure officials from across the Northwest and Canada are meeting to plan for the protection and continuity of the region"s critical infrastructure....

• Dec. 13: Role of public transportation in reducing global warming highlighted at international climate change conference- King County
  King County was in the spotlight last week at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Bali, as Metro Transit General Manager Kevin Desmond presented information on how public transit can be an asset in reducing global warming....

• Dec. 11: Road damage from last week's storm continues to mount; King County estimates damage could exceed $9 million
  Now that the water has receded and the region has had a chance to dry out, King County road crews are getting a better picture of the magnitude of damage caused by last week's rainstorm....

• Dec. 10: King County Council approves Sims' proposal to waive disposal fees for flood-damaged items
  The King County Council today approved Executive Ron Sims' proposal to waive disposal fees at solid waste handling facilities Dec. 13-16 for county residents with flood-damaged debris....

• Dec. 10: King County Green Schools Program recognizes Issaquah School District for recycling, conservation
  With assistance from the King County Green Schools Program -- which helps schools to conserve natural resources and become better stewards of the environment -- the Issaquah School District is recycling more, conserving more energy and water and saving...

• Dec. 6: Sims proposes waiver of disposal fees for flood-damaged debris, Dec. 13-16
  Recognizing the hardships residents with damage from the early December flooding already face, King County Executive Ron Sims has proposed free disposal of flood-damaged debris at King County solid waste disposal facilities Dec. 13-16....

• Dec. 6: King County Board of Health and State Board of Health in joint meeting on December 13, 2007
  The King County Board of Health will be holding a joint meeting with the Washington State Board of Health next Thursday, December 13, 2007, at 1:30 p.m....

• Dec. 6: Free flu shots on December 9, 2007
  Free seasonal influenza shots will be provided by Public Health -- Seattle & King County on Sunday, December 9th between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Delridge and Renton Community Centers. Public Health is once again practicing its ability to vaccinate larg...

• Dec. 6: Give a holiday gift to dogs, cats, lizards and birds at County shelters- King County
  Toys, collars, leashes, kitten formula, flea treatments, towels, bird cages, rain ponchos and flash lights are on the Holiday Wish List of animals at King County Animal Control and Care shelters and foster homes....

• Dec. 5: Residents and businesses can report damages online- King County
  Residents and businesses of King County can now report all damage and loss estimates online at www.kingcounty.gov/prepare, or by calling 1-800-523-5044....

• Dec. 5: King County responds to wastewater overflow in Bothell
  King County's sewer utility crews are working to clean up a wastewater overflow at the North Creek Pump Station in Bothell that was caused by Monday's torrential rainstorm....

• Dec. 5:Meadowbrook Park reopens after King County cleans wastewater
  Meadowbrook Park in Seattle was reopened today after King County wastewater utility crews cleaned up a wastewater overflow caused by Monday's heavy rains....

• Dec. 5: King County Elections certifies Hospital District No. 1 recount
  The King County Canvassing Board last night unanimously certified the machine recount of Anthony Hemstad and Carole A. Anderson in the Hospital District No. 1, Commissioner District No. 3 race. The recount did not change the outcome of the race....

• Dec. 4: King County responds to wastewater overflows caused by Monday"s rainstorm
  King County's sewer utility crews responded quickly to three Eastside wastewater overflows that occurred during Monday's torrential rainstorm....

• Dec. 4: King County responds to wastewater overflow at Seattle's Meadowbrook Park
  King County wastewater utility crews responded quickly when a sewage overflow was discovered in Meadowbrook Park in Seattle Monday....

• Dec. 4: King County closes Flood Warning Center, but keeping an eye on receding rivers
  The King County Flood Warning Center closed at 3 p.m. today after 30 hours of monitoring minor and moderate flooding along the Snoqualmie and Tolt rivers, and Issaquah Creek. Staff will continue to monitor river flows as conditions warrant....

• Dec. 4: Support King County agriculture by purchasing Christmas trees from Puget Sound Fresh growers
  Buying your family's Christmas tree from a local grower this holiday season ensures you get the freshest tree possible, while supporting agriculture here in King County....

• Dec. 4: Winter rain and darkness dangerous for pedestrians
  The dark and rainy months from November to February have been the deadliest for pedestrians in King County, with the highest number of deaths in December, according to new analysis by Public Health -- Seattle & King County....

• Dec. 3: Motorists told to steer clear of flooded roads- King County
  With rain expected to continue overnight, King County's Department of Transportation (KCDOT) is reminding motorists not to underestimate potentially treacherous road conditions associated with widespread flooding in many areas....

• Dec. 3: King County continues response as rain slows- King County
  The King County Emergency Coordination Center will continue to be activated throughout the evening in response to the severe rain and wind impacting all parts of the County....

• Dec. 3: King County responds to heavy rain- King County
  As of 10:30 a.m. this morning, King County activated its Emergency Coordination Center in Renton in response to the severe rain and potential flooding around the county....

• Dec. 3: Heavy rain causing hazardous travel conditions throughout King County
  Mother Nature continues to deliver a one-two punch this morning, causing hazardous travel conditions and other weather-related problems all across the region. ....

• Dec. 3: Phase Two flood alert issued for Cedar River; Flood Warning Center continues to monitor river levels
  King County activated its Flood Warning Center at 8:45 a.m. Monday to monitor moderate flooding along the Tolt River, as heavy rainfall and melting snow raised the river into a Phase III flood alert level....

• Dec. 3: It's a purr-fect time for a new kitty
  With oodles of fabulous felines of all ages, sizes and colors awaiting new loving homes, it's a purr-fect time to adopt a new cat or kitten from King County's Animal Care and Control....

• Dec. 1: Leaders gather to dedicate Norm Maleng Regional Justice Center- King County
  The King County Regional Justice Center was renamed the Norm Maleng Regional Justice Center today in honor of the long-time County Prosecutor who died suddenly last May....

• Nov. 30: Sims urges cooperation, innovation at launch of year-long analysis of water supply, climate change- King County
  With the future of Western U.S. water supplies in harms way from climate change and continued population growth, the region's key stakeholders gathered in Seattle today to launch an intensive search for common ground -- and real solutions....

• Nov. 30: County transportation teams on snow watch for weekend
  With lowland snow and the potential for heavy rain in the weekend forecast, Metro Transit and the King County Road Services Division are ready to respond if travel becomes difficult....

• Nov. 29: Oh Stewardship Tree, Oh Stewardship Tree; King County plants more than 53,000 in 2007
  Tis the season for small evergreens to be cut for holiday decoration, but King County also brings tidings of native tree plantings that will make the land a better place for future generations....

• Nov. 29: King County continues to receive high marks for bond ratings- King County
  King County continues to receive high marks for its bond ratings from all three of the national credit rating agencies. The bond rating is important because it reduces the amount of borrowing costs to King County and ultimately to taxpayers....

• Nov. 28: Public feedback helps shape DNRP performance measurement effort
  Feedback from community leaders and partner organizations is helping shape the King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks' (DNRP) new performance measurement Web site....

• Nov. 28: King County's 'Recycle More. It's Easy To Do.' media campaign wins national awards
  Ads promoting King County's simple solutions to common barriers for recycling have received national recognition for effectively conveying the county's messages....

• Nov. 28: All ballots counted, final certified results posted
  King County Elections certified the Nov. 6, 2007 General Election today and Elections Director Sherril Huff said staff have already started sorting ballots in preparation for a machine recount in Hospital District No. 1 Commissioner position three....

• Nov. 28: Public comment period extended two weeks on plan to improve popular Burke-Gilman Trail
  To provide more time for a thorough public review, King County has extended by two weeks the written comment period for the Burke-Gilman Trail redevelopment project's draft environmental impact statement (DEIS)....

• Nov. 27: Media advisory, Leaders gather to dedicate Norm Maleng Regional Justice Center- King County
  Honoring the legacy of one of King County government's most respected and revered public servants, King County will formally announce the newly designated Norm Maleng Regional Justice Center building (MJC) in Kent this Saturday, Dec. 1, 2007....

• Nov. 27: Brighten holiday mailing with customized stamps featuring King County Parks scenes
  Get into the holiday spirit by supporting your favorite King County park or trail with custom made postage for greeting cards....

• Nov. 27: King County Elections' offices move to Renton
  King County, Washington - The security of ballots and vote counting will improve next week when King County Elections closes its offices in the King County Administration Building and at Boeing Field to move to a larger, consolidated facility in Renton....

• Nov. 21: Ballot counting wraps 13th day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 618 additional absentee ballots and 1,599 provisional ballots today....

• Nov. 21: Mild weather leads to late-season algae blooms in lakes across King County
  Generally mild weather this fall has extended the algae-growing season on lakes across King County....

• Nov. 20: Ballot counting wraps 12th day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 781 additional absentee ballots and 892 provisional ballots today....

• Nov. 20: Contaminated Elliott Bay sediment clean-up begins
  The City of Sammamish recently unveiled its new City Hall, which features an environmentally savvy design and has received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification....

• Nov. 20: Sammamish unveils LEED-certified City Hall
  King County is cleaning up Elliott Bay and improving habitat for fish and wildlife by removing an estimated 4,000 dump truck loads of contaminated material from the bottom....

• Nov. 19: Single-, multi-family projects could be eligible for Built Green® grants funded by King County, Seattle
  Builders of single- and multi-family projects in King County could be eligible to receive grant funding through the Built Greenâ„¢ incentives program, which promotes environmentally friendly construction....

• Nov. 19: Executive Sims praises County Council for fiscal prudence as it approves 2008 budget- King County
  "I commended the Metropolitan King County Council for investing in the future and showing fiscal discipline and leadership in passing a 2008 budget that funds urgently needed safety, transportation and social services while building budget reserves. This...

• Nov. 19: County proposes raising Klahanie Boulevard speed limit
  The King County Road Services Division will hold a public hearing Thursday, Nov. 29 at 6:30 p.m. at Challenger Elementary School to gather public comment on a proposal to raise the speed limit on Klahanie Boulevard and Klahanie Drive....

• Nov. 19: Ballot counting wraps eleventh day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 3,697 additional absentee ballots and 1,988 provisional ballots today....

• Nov. 16: Ballot counting wraps tenth day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 6,656 additional absentee ballots today....

• Nov. 13: This year, give the gift of 'green' through King County's Waste Free Holidays program
  'Experience' gifts, offered at discounts of 15-50 percent, help cut holiday waste: this holiday season, give loved ones great gifts that come with a deep discount and less waste, through King County's Waste Free Holidays program....

• Nov. 15: Ballot counting wraps ninth day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 13,633 additional absentee ballots today....

• Nov. 14: Ballot counting wraps eighth day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 19,872 additional absentee ballots today....

• Nov. 13: Ballot counting wraps seventh day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 25,983 additional absentee ballots today....

• Nov. 13: Metro's vans hit 1,000 mark
  King County Metro Transit is now "batting a thousand" with its popular VanPool and VanShare commuting programs....

• Nov. 11: Ballot counting wraps sixth day. Counting will resume on Tuesday
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 27,639 additional absentee ballots today....

• Nov. 9: Ballot counting wraps fourth day. Counting to continue over the weekend
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 38,832 additional absentee ballots and 180 poll ballots today and will work over the weekend to tabulate ballots received after Election Day....

• Nov. 9: Absence of hydrilla in two King County lakes could signal victory in battle to eradicate invasive weed
  King County and state environmental managers are relieved that extensive surveys of Pipe and Lucerne lakes this year have turned up no sign of hydrilla....

• Nov. 8: Ballot counting wraps third day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 17,310 additional absentee ballots and 795 poll ballots today....

• Nov. 7: Ballot counting wraps second night
  King County Elections today wrapped their second day of ballot counting and added 17,783 additional ballots to vote totals, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated. Today's mail brought in an additional 76,000 absentee ballots....

• Nov. 7: Executive Ron Sims statement on the roads and transit ballot measure vote- King County
  People want immediate congestion relief and to reduce their impact on global warming, and they want to do it without substantial tax increases. We must listen to voters and be sensitive to what they are saying......

• Nov. 7: Businesses, transportation corridors protected as repairs completed on damaged Green River levee
  Popular Green River Valley Trail set to reopen as construction winds down: King County has won the race against time and is completing repairs to a damaged Green River levee in advance of fall storms....

• Nov. 7: King County's new Vashon treatment plant clears way for valuable shellfish harvests
  Thanks to upgrades at King County's Vashon Island treatment plant and construction of the plant's outfall in deeper water, about 160 acres of valuable geoduck clams could now be available for harvest....

• Nov. 10: Ballot counting wraps fifth day. Counting to continue Sunday
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 35,524 additional absentee ballots today....

• Nov. 7: Final numbers of the morning posted, 99.02% of precincts counted; King County media office closed
  King County Elections' staff has posted the last batch of poll returns from 407 polling locations....

• Nov. 6: First poll returns posted; updates scheduled through early morning
  King County Elections posted results for 144,600 absentee ballots earlier this evening, representing mail ballots received through yesterday's mail....

• Nov. 6: Election Day is nearly over, make sure your vote counts
  This year's General Election Day in King County has been conducted with relative ease and efficiency. The polls opened this morning at 7 a.m. and will close in less than four hours, at 8 p.m....

• Nov. 6: Agreement on Lora Lake Apartments will bring housing and economic development opportunities to City of Burien- King County
  Lora Lake Apartments in Burien will be preserved for affordable housing in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that was approved by the Burien City Council in a 4 to 2 vote last night....

• Nov. 6: King County Elections media office opens
  King County Elections has established a media room at the Temporary Elections Annex to assist reporters....

• Nov. 2: King County hosts open house on plans for Novelty Hill Road
  The King County Road Services Division will host a drop-in open house meeting on Thursday, Nov. 8 to discuss plans and designs to improve Novelty Hill Road and connecting streets east of Redmond....

• Nov. 2: Savor local flavor at the holiday table- King County
  Sims asks people to pledge to "Eat Local for Thanksgiving'...

• Oct. 2: King County Green Schools Program honors Lake Washington School District
  Students and staff in the Lake Washington School District have been so successful at improving recycling and energy conservation practices over the past two years that King County's Green Schools Program is honoring the district....

• Nov. 1: Vote now: Choose the method that is right for you
  With Election Day less than a week away, King County Elections has the following tips and reminders to make sure all voters have the information necessary for a successful Election Day....

• King County's Factoria Transfer Station closed for routine repairs, Nov. 16-18
  Routine repairs and maintenance at King County's Factoria Transfer Station in Bellevue means the facility will be closing for a few days in mid-November....

• Nov. 1: King County proposes raising speed limit on section of 244th Ave SE near Lake Francis
  The King County Road Services Division will hold a public hearing Tuesday, Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. in Maple Valley to gather public comment on a proposal to raise the speed limit on a 1.25-mile stretch of 244th Avenue Southeast near Lake Francis....

• Oct. 30: Region's leaders announce new measures to speed winter response as they kick-off annual storm campaign- King County
  On the heels of a winter that brought historic floods, wind and snow to Puget Sound, four of the region's largest agencies have announced a series of new actions to improve coordination and speed response as the next storm season gets underway....

• Oct. 30: County's storm response plan synchs up across jurisdictions
  The King County Department of Transportation (KCDOT) is ready to roll out a new coordinated effort to keep people moving during the worst winter storms....

• Oct. 30: King County taking steps to reduce threats from serious flooding to residents, region's economy
  Last November's record rains and historic flooding not only impacted thousands of residents and their property, it also caused $33 million in new damages to King County's flood protection infrastructure that was already in dire need of repair....

• Oct. 30: King County's Flood Warning Center poised for duty as winter weather arrives
  When winter storms pour in and rivers threaten to overtop their banks, King County's Flood Warning Center kicks into action to provide citizens and property owners the information they need to deal with river flooding and its consequences....

• Oct. 29: MLK logo wins national award- King County
  King County's new logo depicting an original image of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was awarded first place nationally with a Savvy Award from the nation's leading organization for improving local government communication with constituents....

• Oct. 29: Theresa Jennings confirmed as Director of Department of Natural Resources and Parks- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims today lauded the County Council's unanimous vote to confirm Theresa Jennings as Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP)....

• Oct. 29: Media advisory--Regional partners roll out new plans for storm response- King County
  It's been an early start to the 2007-08 storm season, and four of the region's largest agencies are ready to roll out new response plans before the next storm hits....

• Oct. 26: King County stewardship grants help local groups protect, strengthen natural resources
  A unique partnership between King County, the City of Carnation and Ducks Unlimited is resulting in improved fish and wildlife habitat along the Snoqualmie River, which is home to endangered chinook salmon....

• Oct. 25: King County announces grants for youth recreation facilities
  King County Executive Ron Sims today announced 17 matching fund grants totaling nearly $800,000 that will give youth sports and recreation facilities a much-needed boost in the region....

• Oct. 25: Children win with private sector contribution of $3 million for health care- King County
  King County 's children can look forward to a healthier future, thanks to a record $3 million in contributions from 19 community organizations to the King County Children's Health Initiative....

• Oct. 24: New report demonstrates regional economic value of businesses within county floodplains Severe flooding could cost regional economy more than $46 million a day
  Expert economists are predicting that a shutdown of economic activity in King County's floodplains would cost the region $46 million or more every day, and could curtail everything from aircraft manufacturing to bustling warehouse distribution centers....

• Oct. 22: County reduces financial exposure
  King County continues to monitor its investment portfolio as portions of the commercial paper industry are weathering dynamic market conditions. As a result of the continuing uncertainties in these credit markets, the status of two King County investments...

• Oct. 19: Factoria Transfer Station reopens Saturday morning following brief closure from windstorm
  King County's Factoria Transfer Station is set to reopen at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20, following a brief closure caused by Thursday's windstorm....

• Oct. 18: High winds toppled trees and brought down power lines in the Factoria area of Bellevue Thursday afternoon, forcing the indefinite closure of King County's Factoria Transfer Station.
  High winds toppled trees and brought down power lines in the Factoria area of Bellevue Thursday afternoon, forcing the indefinite closure of King County's Factoria Transfer Station....

• Oct. 17: Absentee ballots are in the mail, poll workers needed as the General Election nears
  With three weeks until the Nov.6 General Election, King County Elections today mailed 620,000 absentee ballots.For voters serving in the military, living overseas and out of state, ballots were mailed on Oct. 5 to allow extra transit time for delivery....

• Oct. 17: King County Animal shelters launch special reduced $25 adoption fee on adult cats; $40 for kittens
  The time has never been better to adopt an adult cat or kitten from King County's Animal Shelters. Through the end of November, the adoption price for kittens has been dropped to only $40, and adult cats are now $25....

• Oct. 15: Sims" 2008 budget invests in children"s health, flood protection, criminal justice, transportation and treatment for mentally ill- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims today presented a 2008 budget that invests in protecting people, the economy and transportation mobility. Sims called on the County Council to continue the fiscal prudence practiced in recent budgets as the county faces diff...

• Oct 15: Federal flood maps updated to digital format; Public meetings set to gather input
  New draft digital maps of flood-prone areas in King County -- produced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) -- are available for public review....

• Oct. 12: King County open house commemorates archives month
  King County Archives, the agency responsible for making thousands of government records available to researchers, historians and genealogists, will hold an open house from noon to 3 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 25....

• Oct 11: Media advisory, Sims to host joint annual forum for King County Unincorporated Area Councils- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims will host a joint forum to meet with the six recognized King County Unincorporated Area Councils (UACs)....

• Oct. 10: King County throws a community party to mark end of Boeing Creek Park construction
  To thank Shoreline community members for their input and patience during construction of wastewater facilities in and around Boeing Creek Park, King County will host a neighborhood celebration on Saturday, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon....

• Oct. 10: King County Elections seeks 800 poll workers for November 6 General Election
  Election Day is less than a month away and King County Elections is searching for nearly 800 civic-minded residents to serve as Election Day poll workers on Nov. 6....

• Oct. 10: King County takes innovative approach to taxi association structure- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims today announced a test project of an alternative approach to existing taxicab associations that would improve working conditions and income for drivers and create a new "green' fleet of taxicabs in King County....

• Oct. 10: Sims recommends confirmation of Theresa Jennings as King County Natural Resources and Parks Director- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims today recommended County Council approval and confirmation of Theresa Jennings as director of the Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP)....

• Oct. 10: Vashon holds emergency drill
  On Saturday October 13th Vashon Island will test disaster response skills and its preparation for the 'big one.'...

• Oct. 9: Inmate dies while in custody- King County
  An inmate in the custody of the King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention died Oct. 8 at the King County Correctional Facility in Seattle....

• Oct. 8: Metro Transit on track for another year of record-breaking ridership
  The latest ridership numbers for King County Metro Transit shows demand for bus service in King County continues to grow at a very strong rate -- and it"s barely into October, which historically has been Metro"s busiest month....

• Oct. 5: King County maintains exceptional 'AAA' bond rating - King County
  The nation's top bond rating agencies have reaffirmed their AAA rating for King County as it prepares to issue bonds and bond anticipation notes to finance capital projects such as integrated security and health projects in the downtown Seattle jail....

• Oct. 5: Sims signs Camp Korey ordinance- King County
  King County Executive Sims today signed legislation that could pave the way for Camp Korey...

• Oct. 4: Sims" 2008 budget adds corrections officers, gang unit and domestic violence prevention staff- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims' 2008 budget reaffirms his unwavering commitment to protect people and property with $6.1 million in new criminal justice staffing....

• Oct. 4: Supplemental voters' pamphlet in the mail for north King County residents
  Voters' in northern King County will receive a supplemental edition of their state and local Voters' Pamphlet this weekend. Edition 18 was printed and mailed without the Sound Transit & RTID Proposition No. 1 pro and con statements page....

• Oct. 4: King County teachers" resource directory available
  Teachers interested in expanding classroom lessons can find activities, special presentations and grants for a wide range of topics in the newly updated King County Programs for Educators Directory....

• Oct. 4: King County's Bow Lake Transfer Station is Tukwila is again accepting garbage this evening after being closed for roughly five hours following a lightning strike and small fire.
  King County's Bow Lake Transfer Station is Tukwila is again accepting garbage this evening after being closed for roughly five hours following a lightning strike and small fire....

• Oct. 3: Fire caused by lightning strike closes Bow Lake Transfer Station in Tukwila
  Lightning struck the Bow Lake Transfer Station in Tukwila late Wednesday afternoon, causing an electrical fire underneath the scales and closing the 24-hour solid waste disposal facility....

• Oct 3: Catch a glimpse of our region's past at Discovery Park's Archaeology Day
  In the 1990s, workers expanding King County's West Point Treatment Plant discovered a window to Puget Sound's ancient past: A 3,600-year-old shellfish midden that contained clues to what life was like thousands of years ago....

• Oct. 1: Local leaders gather at rally against domestic violence- King County
  The King County Government Domestic Violence (DV) Council held a rally today at Seattle City Hall Plaza to call on citizens to end domestic violence, reach out and get involved....

• Sept. 28: Sims pleased with best-in-nation flood honor, but 'won't rest easy' until aging levees are repaired- King County
  While record rain and floods last winter are still fresh memories, King County's flood plan and flood management programs were named among the best-in-the-nation today by the Federal Emergency Management Agency....

• Sept. 24: County advances to next stage in transforming business operations to offer more effective services- King County
  With the approval and release of funding today, King County is moving forward in developing a new business model that will deliver efficiencies within the county and more effective services to county residents....

• Sept. 24: King County"s White Center Park renamed to honor fallen King County Deputy Steve Cox- King County
  The King County Council voted today to rename White Center Park "Steve Cox Memorial Park" in honor of the fallen King County Sheriff's Deputy, who was killed in the line of duty in December 2006....

• Sept. 24: Brightwater project goes underground as machines begin work on 13-mile tunnel- King County
  The launch of a hulking tunnel boring machine today as part of the Brightwater treatment plant construction project signifies the next phase in King County's ongoing commitment to environmental protection and to providing essential services to residents....

• Sept. 20: King County's Wastemobile gives residents the chance to dispose of hazardous waste
  Wondering what to do with pesticides, dead car batteries or other household hazardous items? King County residents can safely dispose of these items and others by bringing them to the King County Wastemobile, Oct. 5-7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Redmond....

• Sept. 20: King County releases 2007 Environmental Benchmark Report- King County
  Recycling is at an all-time high, water conservation is up, and more people are using public transportation. However, increasing greenhouse gas emissions will continue to present environmental challenges in the region....

• Sept. 20: Room to grow in King County's urban areas according to new report- King County
  An ample supply of buildable land will support commercial and residential development for King County's growing population over the next 15 years according to the 2007 Buildable Lands Report released today....

• Sept. 19: Sims sets new course for climate-friendly transportation- King County
  A first-of-its-kind green fleet initiative to bring more clean and climate-friendly vehicles to King County was launched today by Executive Ron Sims, environmental leaders, and cities throughout the county....

• Sept. 18: Properly dispose of hazardous waste at King County's Wastemobile
  Residents of King County have the opportunity to dispose of their household hazardous waste by bringing it each day to the Wastemobile event in Federal Way on Sept. 28-30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m....

• Sept. 18: Keeping Downtown Seattle Moving: Partners mark on-time completion of Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel retrofit- King County
  Sound Transit, King County, the City of Seattle, and Community Transit officials today celebrated the on-time completion of the two-year Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel (DSTT) retrofit project....

• Sept. 18: Celebrate the homecoming of local salmon during King County's 2007 Fall for Salmon series
  Commemorate the return of local salmon in King County's streams and rivers by observing and volunteering during the many opportunities at the 2007 Fall for Salmon series....

• Sept. 17: Spend a 'Day in the Park' improving trail in King County's Grand Ridge Park
  King County's Grand Ridge Park trail in Issaquah is going to get a little TLC on Sept. 29 as part of Earth Share of Washington's annual "Day in the Park" clean-up event....

• Sept. 17: King County Trade Mission to China- King County
  To learn more about the King County Trade Mission to China, potential participants are invited to attend a special information session on Monday, Sept. 24, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m....

• Explore career opportunities at King County's wastewater utility
  King County's Wastewater Treatment Division has career opportunities available for qualified, motivated professionals who share the agency's passion for clean water, a healthy environment and technical innovation....

• Sept. 14: Elliott Bay Water Taxi sailing season extended
  A banner summer sailing season will prompt an extended autumn run for King County's Elliott Bay Water Taxi....

• Sept. 14: King County youth substance abuse intervention program receives national honors- King County
  Local efforts to improve community-based substance abuse intervention services for at-risk youth received national attention this week as King County received one of the first-ever Science to Service awards for best practices and innovation in substance a...

• Sept. 13: Vashon's Island Center Forest grows by 86 acres as King County puts land into protected status
  A Vashon Island forest that is home to a diverse wildlife population and helps protect the headwaters of a salmon-bearing stream is being placed into protective status through King County....

• Sept. 12: Metro tunnel reopening brings bus service changes
  King County Metro Transit is gearing up for a major service change starting Saturday, Sept. 22 - but the biggest change happens two days later with the reopening of Metro's downtown Seattle bus tunnel on Monday, Sept. 24....

• Sept. 11: New guidebook will help communities prepare for climate change impacts- King County
  Local government leaders have a new tool to help them plan for the impacts of climate change, such as an increased risk of drought and flooding, new diseases, and invasive species that are harmful to humans and the environment....

• Sept. 11: Executive praises Port of Seattle Commissioners for looking to new plan for PCB disposal- King County
  King County will work collaboratively with the Port of Seattle to find a safe disposal site for dredging material contaminated by PCBs....

• Sept. 11: It's salmon 'SEEson' on King County rivers, streams
  There are plenty of great salmon-viewing opportunities across Puget Sound as several salmon species return from the ocean to spawn in the stream where they were born....

• Sept. 10: King County Trade Mission to China- King County
  Business owners, entrepreneurs, and local organizations are invited to take part in the King County Trade Mission to China November 9-20....

• Sept 8: Media advisory, New guidebook to help local, regional, and state governments plan and prepare for climate change impacts- King County
  Local government leaders will be given a new tool next week to help them plan for the impacts of climate change, such as an increased risk of drought and flooding, new diseases, and invasive species that are harmful to humans and the environment....

• Sept. 7: Closure of 276th Avenue Southeast extended
  The closure of 276th Avenue Southeast in Hobart will be extended, while crews complete a culvert replacement project and repave the roadway....

• Sept. 5: King County Elections certifies August primary
  King County Elections today certified the August 21 primary results in all 55 races and ballot measures countywide....

• Sept. 5: Executive Sims statement on the death of Jennifer Dunn- King County
  I am shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden death of Jennifer Dunn, one of this state's most influential leaders in recent times....

• Sept. 3: King County takes steps to protect bond rating and assets for investment pool members- King County
  Due to increased volatility in the commercial paper investment market, King County has taken steps to maintain its investment pool's "AAAf" designation and protect the assets the county manages....

• Aug. 31: Burke Gilman Trail detour extended in Kenmore as road safety, widening project progresses
  The detour route of King County"s Burke Gilman Trail around a Kenmore construction project is being extended farther west so that work can proceed on the trail"s new underpass....

• Aug. 31: No equestrian access to Snoqualmie Valley Trail at Fall City bridge replacement worksite, Sept. 5-7
  Replacing a small, dilapidated bridge in Fall City this September means horseback riders who want to access King County"s Snoqualmie Valley Trails must use an alternate route Sept. 5-7....

• Aug. 31: Horse riders coming to King County"s Danville Georgetown Trails for prize ride
  Hundreds of horseback riders will come together at King County"s Danville Georgetown Trails Sept. 8 for the Backcountry Horsemen of Washington Tahoma Chapter"s annual Prize Ride....

• Aug. 30: Executive Sims statement on death of Karen Marchioro- King County
  I am deeply saddened to hear of Karen Marchioro"s passing. She was a powerhouse who had a passion for her convictions that is not often seen, and her goal was always improved government for the benefit of the people of this state. I have so much resp...

• Aug. 28: Ballot counting wraps sixth day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 3,834 additional absentee ballots today....

• Aug. 27: Recent county bridge report reveals steady improvement; but big needs remain
  King County"s annual report on the condition of its 185 bridges shows the county continues to make major strides toward improving the overall safety and condition of its bridges. Construction of 17 new bridges in the last decade and near-completion of a...

• Aug. 27: Ballot counting wraps fifth day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 18,926 additional absentee ballots today. ...

• Aug. 24: Ballot counting wraps fourth day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 31,309 additional absentee ballots today....

• Aug. 24: Metro posts double-digit ridership increases during I-5 construction
  As the big Interstate 5 construction project draws to a close in Seattle, King County Metro Transit is reporting record ridership on buses, vanpools, and the Elliott Bay Water Taxi during August....

• Aug. 23: Ballot counting wraps third day
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 27,114 additional absentee ballots today....

• Aug. 22: As initial returns show strong voter backing for parks, King County thanks supporters
  With two King County Parks levies winning big after initial returns Tuesday night, county officials were busy thanking supporters today for their help in strengthening the financial health of the parks system....

• Aug. 22: Executive thanks voters for expected approval of Parks levies and Auburn annexations- King County
  With all poll ballots and half of the absentee ballots counted, King County Executive Ron Sims today thanked voters for the expected approval of two countywide parks levies and two Auburn annexation measures on yesterday's ballot....

• Aug. 21: Ballot counting wraps second night; turnout in the primary lower than expected
  King County Elections staff have wrapped up their second day of ballot counting for the 2007 primary with 13,753 additional ballots added to vote totals today. Elections Director Sherrill Huff predicts a 24 percent turnout....

• Aug. 21: Final numbers of the morning posted, 99.41% of precincts counted; King County media office closed
  King County Elections' staff has posted the last batch of poll returns from the August primary: 120,664 absentee ballots tabulated to date, 29,362 poll votes cast (which does not include provisional ballots)....

• Aug. 21: Poll results update
  King County Elections is processing returns from 407 polling locations as election day activities wind down....

• Aug. 21: Wise real estate investment could fund numerous county service improvements- King County
  A wise real estate investment eight years ago has put King County in position to possibly consolidate more services downtown in a new King County Administration Building at no new cost to taxpayers....

• Aug. 21: King County Elections media office opens
  King County Elections has established a media room at the Temporary Elections Annex to assist reporters and other media throughout Election Day....

• Aug. 20: Closure of 276th Avenue SE extended through Sept. 10
  The closure of 276th Avenue Southeast in Hobart will be extended through Monday, Sept. 10, while crews complete a culvert replacement project....

• Aug. 17: 2006 tuberculosis report shows rise, plus intense control activities
  Reflecting the local challenges of a worldwide epidemic, 145 people with active tuberculosis (TB) disease were reported in King County in 2006, a 16% rise from 2005. This number remains below the 30-year high of 158 people in 2002....

• Aug. 17: Metro seeks advisory group for West Seattle RapidRide
  King County Metro Transit -- in consultation with the city of Seattle -- is planning a new type of bus service for West Seattle called RapidRide, and community members are needed to help develop the plans....

• Aug. 17: Metro seeks advisory group for Eastside RapidRide
  King County Metro Transit -- in partnership with the cities of Bellevue and Redmond -- is planning a new type of bus service for the Eastside called RapidRide, and community members are needed to help develop the plans....

• Aug. 14: US Department of Transportation names SR 520 bridge replacement a federal priority
  The US Department of Transportation today selected the SR 520 Bridge replacement as a priority project to receive grant funding and additional federal support under an innovative grant program designed to improve traffic....

• Aug. 14: Important annexation vote on August 21 primary ballot; Cities and County hope for strong turn-out
  As the August 21 primary election draws near, Auburn, Federal Way and King County officials hope voters living in annexation areas adjacent to the two cities will make their voices heard on three annexation ballot measures....

• Aug. 14: Vote now: Choose the method that is right for you
  With Election Day just around the corner, King County Elections has the following tips and reminders to make sure all voters have the information necessary for a successful Election Day....

• Aug. 13: Metro thanks passengers for a smooth morning commute
  It appeared to be "smooth sailing" both on land and water this morning for King County Metro Transit, as local residents turned to public transportation to avoid the construction zone on northbound Interstate 5....

• Aug. 10: Court Order Prevents Port of Seattle from Demolishing Lora Lake Apartments- King County
  Superior Court Judge Deborah Fleck today granted a preliminary injunction restraining the Port of Seattle from demolishing the Lora Lake Apartments until a trial, which is scheduled for March 24, 2008....

• Aug. 10: Death of inmate in custody- King County
  An inmate in custody of the King County jail system died this morning, Friday, August 10, at Harborview Medical Center (HMC) at 4:44 a.m....

• Aug. 10: King County helps commercial building projects 'go green' with grants to owners
  King County has extended the application deadline for green building grants for projects seeking Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification to Oct. 1....

• Aug. 10: Avoid the traffic, conduct county business at local community service center- King County
  Need to purchase a marriage license or passport during the Interstate 5 construction between Aug. 10 and 29? Avoid Interstate 5 gridlock and visit one of King County's seven Community Service Centers....

• Aug. 10: Construction means brief road closure within King County's Marymoor Park, Aug. 14
  A portion of Northeast Marymoor Way, which winds through King County's Marymoor Park, will briefly close during a four-hour construction period Tuesday, Aug. 14....

• Aug. 10: It doesn't get any fresher: Farmers markets opening for business across King County
  The tastes of summer -- farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, locally raised meat and much more -- are as close as your local farmers market. And with 32 across King County, there's a great chance that a farmers market is close by....

• Aug. 9: Metro offers transit tips for coping with I-5 construction
  The big construction project on Interstate 5 in Seattle is only a day away, and King County Metro Transit is offering some last-minute travel tips for coping with the freeway lane closures and expected traffic congestion....

• Aug. 9: Family fun awaits at third-annual Duwamish River Festival, Aug. 18
  Come see how King County is helping make the Duwamish River a better place for people, fish and wildlife at the third-annual Duwamish River Festival, Aug. 18....

• Aug. 9: There's still plenty of summertime fun at King County Parks -- Your Big Backyard
  Pay no attention to your calendar that says Labor Day and the unofficial end of summer are just a few short weeks away. King County Parks still has a great lineup of outdoor events and activities....

• Aug. 8: Immunizing now will keep children safe, healthy and in school
  Now is the time to keep children from kindergarten to high school safe this upcoming school year by making sure all immunizations are up to date....

• Aug. 7: King County hosts meeting on proposed roundabout for intersection of SE 304th Street and 124th Avenue SE
  The King County Department of Transportation will host a drop-in open house on Tuesday, Aug. 14 for anyone interested in learning more about the county"s plans to build a roundabout at the intersection of Southeast 304th Street and 124th Avenue Southeas...

• Aug. 6: King County, Corps of Engineers to rebuild damaged levee
  King County and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are teaming up today to repair portions of a Green River levee that protects an estimated $650 million of commercial development in the Green River Valley....

• Aug. 6: Safely dispose of household hazardous waste with King County Wastemobile, Aug. 24-26, in Snoqualmie
  King County residents can safely dispose of their household hazardous waste by bringing it to the three-day Wastemobile event in Snoqualmie/North Bend on Aug. 24-26, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m....

• Aug. 6: Detour set for King County's Green River Trail during levee repairs in Kent
  Much-needed repairs to a levee along the Green River in Kent mean that Green River Trail users will have to follow a short detour around the construction site for about two months....

• Aug. 3: King County Rural Forest Commission seeks applicants for three vacant positions
  The King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks is seeking volunteers to fill three vacant positions on the Rural Forest Commission....

• Aug: 2: King County implements Ring Hill Forest timber harvest
  A disease spreading through trees in Ring Hill Forest is prompting King County to move ahead with a selective timber harvest -- the first one since the county acquired the working forest 10 years ago to preserve the land from development....

• Aug. 2: Enhanced Elliott Bay Water Taxi service offered during I-5 construction
  King County Metro Transit and the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will be enhancing Elliott Bay Water Taxi service on weekdays Aug. 10-29 to help relieve traffic congestion due to the lane closures on northbound Interstate 5....

• Aug. 2: King County Parks sizzle with August activities
  With the Labor Day holiday lurking a scant four weeks in the future, there's no time to waste before getting out and enjoying the best that the King County Parks -- Your Big Backyard -- has to offer....

• Aug. 1: Make voting part of your summer plans. Absentee ballots and voters' pamphlets in the mail
  This year's earlier primary is near and voters are urged to make voting part of their summer plans. With three weeks until the August 21 primary, King County Election today mailed 615,000 ballots....

• Aug. 1: King County EcoConsumer helps spread the word about 'green living' on new national TV show
  King County "EcoConsumer" Tom Watson is the judge for "Green Me Up," a new national TV reality show where two Seattle families compete to see which is the "greenest."...

• July 30: Logic and Accuracy test of vote counting equipment begins tomorrow
  King County Elections will begin a logic and accuracy test on all equipment used to count and process ballots at the polls on Tuesday, July 31 at 8:30 a.m. at the Election Distribution Center located at 1215 East Fir St. in Seattle....

• July 27: Short stretch of Preston-Snoqualmie Trail closed during construction activity at Preston ballfields
  A short portion of King County's Preston-Snoqualmie Trail is closed between Southeast 84th Street and Southeast 87th Place in Preston during construction at the Preston ballfields site....

• July 26: Three road projects scheduled for Vashon Island
  In August and September, the King County Road Services Division will begin road repair projects in three separate locations near Quartermaster and Tramp harbors on Vashon Island....

• July 26: Felony charges filed in voter registration cases
  The King County Prosecutor's Office today filed criminal charges against seven people who are accused of submitting 1,762 fraudulent registrations to King County's Department of Records and Elections in 2006....

• July 26: Get 'wild' on the beach - sign up for King County's guided ecology walk, Aug. 11
  King County's Wastewater Treatment Division and marine biologist Kimberle Stark want to show people a "wild" time at the beach....

• July 26: Burn ban ends July 27th at 8 a.m.
  Together with Pierce County, Kitsap County, Mason County, and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, King County will lift the current burn ban as of 8 a.m. on Friday, July 27, 2007....

• July 25: State Hearings Board decision figures to put Burke Gilman Trail work back on track
  A state Growth Management Hearings Board has invalidated a Lake Forest Park City Council ordinance that had put on hold King County's work to redevelop and make safer the oldest portion of the Burke Gilman Trail. ...

• July 25: Essential King County services now offered in Covington- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims today announced the grand opening of the Community Service Center in Covington, the seventh center that provides citizens in rural locations easier access to essential government service...

• July 25: Citizens give high marks for King County DDES reforms
  King County"s Department of Development and Environmental Services (DDES) has received high customer satisfaction results from a recent survey measuring its year-to-date performance and progress from year to year....

• July 24: King County ramps up effort to convert landfill gas to green energy
  A new contract to generate "green energy" from decomposing garbage at the Cedar Hills Landfill is expected to help King County significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and earn more than $1 million annually....

• July 24: Sims praises Commissioner Edwards for action to save Lora Lake apartments- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims thanked Port of Seattle Commissioner Bob Edwards for his courage and leadership in proposing a motion to stop the Port's impending demolition of 162 apartments that had been home to low income working families....

• July 20: Visit the King County Fair this weekend for great food, fun and entertainment
  There's still plenty to see, do and eat at the King County Fair in Enumclaw, which wraps up its 145th year this Sunday....

• July 20: King County announces "best workplaces for recycling"
  King County's Solid Waste Division has named 21 local companies to its first-annual "Best Workplaces for Recycling" list. These King County businesses are being recognized for strong internal recycling programs and their commitment to making recycling eas...

• July 20: Safely dispose of household hazardous waste at King County"s Wastemobile, Aug. 10-12 in Duvall
  King County residents can properly dispose of household hazardous waste by dropping it by the King County Wastemobile, Aug. 10-12, at Cedarcrest High School in Duvall....

• July 20: Menu labeling, trans fat ban approved by the Board of Health
  People will be able to make more informed food choices and have a safer food supply as the result of today"s action by the King County Board of Health to require menu labeling in King County chain restaurants and to eliminate artificial trans fat in all...

• July 19: Inmate death in King County Jail- King County
  A King County jail inmate died this morning, Thursday, July 19, after being found unresponsive in his bed in the jail infirmary during a routine check at 7:26 a.m....

• July 19: Household hazardous waste recycling easy at King County Wastemobile, Aug. 3-5 in Issaquah
  Keep household hazardous material out of landfills simply by dropping them off at the King County Wastemobile, August 3-5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Issaquah High School, 700 Second Ave. SE....

• July 19: Summer outdoor movie series returns to King County's Marymoor Park
  King County's First Tech Movies @ Marymoor Park series is under way, and there are still plenty of great movies for the whole family to watch under the stars....

• July 19: King County adds to regional trail system by finishing new portion of Soos Creek Trail
  The best regional trail system in the nation is getting a little better -- and a little longer, too, as King County completes a new stretch of the Soos Creek Regional Trail near Kent....

• July 19: King County Parks heat up with mid-summer fun
  King County Parks - Your Big Backyard - is pulling out all the stops to bring must-see entertainment and must-do activities this summer....

• July 18: 'JoJo' the Guernsey cow takes crown
  A 3-year-old Guernsey cow trotted past a tufted Roman goose, a skateboarding chicken and several other worthy contestants to earn the coveted title of Royal Critter at the 2007 King County Fair during the fair"s opening ceremonies Wednesday....

• July 17: International interest in Brightwater Plant innovations
  Design team leaders on a project to develop 43 acres of habitat on the Brightwater Wastewater Treatment Plant site have been invited to South Korea to lead a workshop on urban ecological restoration....

• June 17: Everyone's invited to 'Dance to the Moo-Sic,' at the 145th annual King County Fair, July 18-22 in Enumclaw
  The King County Fair, the oldest fair west of the Mississippi, kicks off tomorrow at high noon in Enumclaw with the annual Critter Crowning Contest, and the family fun doesn't stop until the conclusion of the demolition derby and car rollover contest on S...

• July 17: Bellevue sewer improvement project to impact traffic near central business district
  Drivers and pedestrians using Southeast Sixth Street near Bellevue"s central business district should expect traffic detours and road closures as work on a sewer improvement project begins in late July....

• July 17: Benson Hill Annexation meeting: Residents can get info, give input at upcoming open house- King County
  Residents of the Benson Hill Community in urban unincorporated King County south and east of Renton are invited to a community discussion and open house on Thursday, July 19, 2007 to focus on the issue of local government services and annexation to the Ci...

• July 16: Final casting call. King County Elections seeks 500 poll workers for August 21 primary
  King County Elections urges residents to support democracy and meet other civic-minded residents by serving as an Election Day poll worker in the early, August 21 primary....

• July 16: King County helps lead "Cool Counties" Launch of Major Global Warming Initiative- King County
  King County joined several large counterparts across the country today in partnering with the Sierra Club to announce the creation of the Cool Counties Climate Stabilization Initiative, a major new initiative to combat global warming....

• July 16: King County receives national recognition awards for innovative preservation and conservation programs- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims accepted awards this weekend for two innovative King County programs singled out as being the best in their respective program categories by the National Association of Counties (NACo) at a ceremony in Washington, D.C ....

• July 13: Plan ahead for I-5 closure by forming a new vanpool
  The clock is ticking on a great deal to help commuters cope with the upcoming closure of Interstate 5 in Seattle that is expected to create widespread traffic backups....

• July 12: Water safety fashion show kicks off Summer Splashtacular
  Local teens modeled the latest in stylish lifejackets this afternoon at a fashion show to promote water safety....

• July 12: New King County internal business processes to provide better information and services to county residents- King County
  King County is in the process of adopting a new business model that will deliver efficiencies within the county and more effective services to county residents....

• July 12: King County's employee wellness program earns top national honors- King County
  King County's employee wellness program has earned the top national award from the American Heart Association's Start! Fit Friendly Companies Program for making the health and wellness of employees a priority....

• July 11: Wastewater treatment utility earns prestigious national awards for environmental protection
  King County's Wastewater Treatment Division has earned two national awards from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies for outstanding compliance with its state and federal permit requirements....

• July 11: King County promotes the importance of healthy soil
  King County is helping to improve soils by implementing post-construction standards on soil depth and quality in unincorporated areas....

• July 10: Record heat opens additional cooling centers
  As above average temperatures continue in the Puget Sound region, additional cooling centers have been opened around King County to help residents stay cool and comfortable during hot summer days....

• July 10: Enumclaw-area residents can dispose of household hazardous waste with King County's Wastemobile
  King County residents can properly dispose of leftover paint, dead car batteries or other household hazardous items at a King County Wastemobile household hazardous waste collection event, July 27-29 at Enumclaw Middle School....

• July 10: King County Elections cancels fraudulent registration. Prosecuting Attorney seeks legal action
  Director of King County Elections Sherril Huff today canceled the registration of Duncan M. MacDonald, an illegal registration presented to King County Elections by Jane K. Balogh....

• July 10: Beat the heat: Community resources and cooling centers open around King County
  With temperatures expected to be in the low 90s this week, Public Health - Seattle & King County and the King County Office of Emergency Management are recommending residents make use of public facilities to stay cool during the heat....

• July 10: Metro prepping to keep things moving during August I-5 closure
  It's not too soon to think about how you"ll get around during August's three-week closure of a busy section of Interstate 5....

• July 10: Keep your pets safe during the warm weather
  As the weather heats up, King County Animal Services urges pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their furry friends healthy and safe....

• July 9: Tips on how to stay cool and healthy during a heat wave
  With high temperatures in the forecast for this week, Public Health - Seattle & King County, the King County Office of Emergency Management, and the National Weather Service warn residents that heat can cause serious medical problems....

• July 9: Rural Roundtable: County Council brings Town Hall meeting to southeast King County
  On Monday, July 23, the Metropolitan King County Council is bringing local government directly to its rural constituents and residents of the developing cities of southeast King County at a special Town Hall Meeting....

• Council adopts Dunn's "Transparency in Taxation" measure
  Property owners in King County will soon receive a detailed breakdown of their property taxes mailed to their homes as the Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously adopted the "Transparency in Taxation" initiative introduced by Councilmember Rea...

• July 9: Council preserves voters' right to secret ballot in vote-by-mail system
  Voters who cast their ballots by mail will have the assurance of knowing the secrecy of their vote will be preserved, under a new policy adopted today by the Metropolitan King County Council....

• July 9: Council appoints Dan Satterberg to fill vacancy of King County Prosecuting Attorney
  The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously appointed Dan Satterberg to the office of King County Prosecuting Attorney, filling the vacancy created by the sudden passing of Norm Maleng on May 24....

• July 9: Everyone's invited to 'Dance to the Moo-Sic,' at the 145th annual King County Fair, July 18-22 in Enumclaw
  The King County Fair celebrates its 145th birthday this year with an exciting lineup of family-friendly attractions....

• July 7: Power outage results in small overflow at West Seattle pump station
  King County's sewer utility crews responded quickly to a small wastewater overflow at the Murray Avenue Pump Station in West Seattle after a power failure shut down pumping equipment about 4:30 a.m....

• July 6: King County Fair comes to smashing conclusion with demolition derby, rollover competition
  Whether it's traditional food, great Midway rides, or livestock and 4-H displays, everyone has a favorite attraction at the King County Fair, July 18-22 at the Enumclaw Expo Center....

• July 5: Public Health on the move to new location
  Beginning this weekend and continuing through July, Public Health -- Seattle & King County will be moving administration and several programs into the New King County Office Building in downtown Seattle....

• July 5: Ten critters ready to go toe to claw (to hoof) for King County Fair 'Royal Critter' crown
  A diverse field of nearly two dozen hopeful pets and livestock has been narrowed down to 10 finalists who will compete for the title of 2007 King County Fair Royal Critter....

• July 5: Safely dispose of household hazardous waste with King County's Wastemobile in Redmond, July 21
  King County residents can properly dispose of leftover paint, dead car batteries or other household hazardous by dropping them by the King County Wastemobile, July 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Redmond Home Depot, 17777 NE 76th St....

• July 5: King County Roads to kick off busy week of construction
  There are several road and bridge projects scheduled to begin next week in unincorporated King County that could disrupt local traffic....

• July 3: Regional collaboration a success: Medic One levy proposal headed to fall ballot
  The acclaimed Medic One system that delivers the highest cardiac arrest survival rate in the world will be fully funded under a new six-year levy proposal that will appear on the November ballot....

• July 3: Voters to decide in November on six-year levy to continue life-saving Medic One services
  The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously placed the six-year Medic One and Emergency Medical Services levy on the November general election ballot....

• July 3: Burke-Gilman Trail detour in place for 6 months as major road reconstruction continues in Kenmore
  A short portion of King County's Burke Gilman Trail through Kenmore will remain rerouted around a major road construction project for about six months....

• July 2: Independence Day Transit Operation & Customer Services
  Metro Transit and Sound Transit Regional Express operate on Sunday schedules. If a route does not normally run on Sunday, there will be no service on July 4th....

• July 2: Council confirms Sherril Huff as Director of Records, Elections and Licensing Services
  The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously confirmed Sherril Huff as Director of the King County"s Records, Elections and Licensing Services (REALS) Division....

• June 30: Over 125 dogs and cats find new homes with King County residents: Second annual Super Pet Adopt-a-thon a huge success
  King County residents flocked to the King County Kent Animal Shelter this morning. More than 125 cats and dogs were adopted from the 17 animal shelters and rescue groups at the event....

• June 28: King County launches food waste education program
  "Recycle Food. It"s Easy to Do" campaign encourages food waste in yard waste cart....

• June 27: Last two chances for residents to recommend changes to King County charter
  King County"s Charter Review Commission will hold its final two public meetings this summer to solicit community input on the county charter, the document that operates much like the county"s constitution, providing the framework for how the region is...

• June 27: Annual Super Pet Adopt-a-thon to be held June 30: 100s of dogs and cats available at King County Kent Shelter
  If you are longing for the companionship of a pet, you will be able to choose the pick of a gigantic litter June 30 at the region"s 2nd Annual Super Pet Adopt-a-thon, hosted by King County....

• June 25: Metro"s Driver of the Year is psyched about his work
  King County Metro Transit"s 2006 Operator of the Year has a degree in psychology, but his 27 years behind the wheel of a bus have probably taught him more about human nature than any textbook could....

• June 27: Hobart road closure begins July 9
  King County will close 276th Avenue Southeast in Hobart for seven weeks to make major repairs. The road will be closed from Monday, July 9 through Wednesday, Aug. 22 between Southeast 197th Street and Southeast 200th Street....

• June 27: Five Snoqualmie Watershed restoration projects get $170,000
  As part of the regional effort to protect watershed health and recover salmon populations, the King Conservation District (KCD) in conjunction with the Snoqualmie Watershed Forum has approved five grants totaling more than $170,000 for restoration and ste...

• June 27: Medical Examiner seeks public"s help to identify person
  The King County Medical Examiner"s Office and the Redmond Police Department are attempting to identify human skeletal remains recovered from a brush area bordering Highway 520 in Redmond on June 25, 2007. The remains are those of a white male, 20 -- 35...

• June 27: King County Wastemobile in Federal Way, July 13-15
  Wondering what to do with leftover paint, dead car batteries or other household hazardous items? King County residents can properly dispose of these items and others at the King County Wastemobile, July 13-15 at The Commons at Federal Way. ...

• June 22: Nearly two dozen pets, livestock battling for 2007 King County Fair "critter crown"
  There"s a barnyard full of animals in the running for the coveted title of "Royal Critter" to represent the 2007 King County Fair, set for July 18-22 in Enumclaw....

• July 21: Public gets two extra weeks to review, comment on King County's proposed shoreline management rules
  July 6 deadline to submit comments on proposed shoreline master program: interested citizens have two extra weeks to review and comment on proposed policies and regulations that protect unincorporated King County shorelines....

• June 21: New bus advertising program to net additional revenue for transit service
  Metro Transit is proposing an innovative solution that allows the agency to generate additional income by partially wrapping some of its buses with vinyl advertising....

• June 21: Rainier Beach gets In Motion
  This summer, residents of the Rainier Beach neighborhood in Seattle have extra motivation to leave their cars behind and increase their use of transit, carpooling, biking and walking....

• June 21: Be SunWise this summer to protect your skin from sun's harmful rays
  Seattle area residents are near the bottom in use of sunscreen while skin cancer is one the most diagnosed forms of cancer in the state. King County is partnering with the Environmental Protection Agency to promote SunWise behavior to local children....

• June 20 media advisory: King County Executive to sign agreement for Qwest Field North Lot Development- King County
  Members of the media are invited to join King County Executive Ron Sims for the signing of the North Lot Development agreement. King County Councilmembers, community stakeholders and project developers have also been invited to attend....

• June 20: King County, King Conservation District form partnership to offer new grant opportunities
  Community-based conservation organizations in King County have a new funding source for projects that are designed to save dwindling forestland or restore valuable wildlife habitat....

• June 19: King County offers new 'GreenTools' to help cities design and complete sustainable building projects
  Cities now have a customized toolkit to help them "build greener" with King County's new GreenTools program....

• June 19: Special filing period extended to fill City of Algona position
  King County Elections will hold a three-day filing period Wednesday, June 20 to Friday, June 23 to fill the City of Algona"s Council Position No. 3....

• June 19: New Web address, new Web site for King County
  King County's awarding winning Web site, just got better. The county today debuted a new Web address, www.kingcounty.gov to replace your.kingcounty.gov, plus a new home page design and other upgrades....

• June 19: Media advisory--King County Executive to announce technology change
  Members of the media are invited to join King County Executive Ron Sims as he unveils a major technology switch: a new Internet address, Web site and online look for King County....

• June 18: Sims proposes Eastside transit boost and announces changes when downtown Seattle tunnel reopens- King County
  Eastside bus riders will be able to get to work more easily and better connect with Sound Transit and Metro regional routes beginning next February under a new service plan unveiled by King County Executive Ron Sims today....

• June 18: Strong bond ratings, favorable interest rates mean stable monthly sewer bills for King County ratepayers
  Ratepayers will see stable monthly sewer bills in the coming months thanks to strong bond ratings and favorable interest rates that will minimize the cost of borrowing to fund King County"s sewer improvement projects....

• June 15: Closure planned for Black Diamond-Ravensdale Road
  The King County Road Services Division will be replacing an aging and undersized culvert underneath Black Diamond-Ravensdale Road that will result in a two-week closure and detour....

• June 15: Bissonnette to retire as director of King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks- King County
  Pam Bissonnette, who has led the Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) to regional and national prominence for its work on water quality, salmon recovery, waste to resources and flood protection, is retiring after a 30 year government career....

• June 15: Community celebrates 7-day 'ultimate makeover' of underdeveloped White Center Heights Park
  With the drop of an enormous curtain, hundreds of kids, community members, volunteers, business and local government leaders gazed wide-eyed, cheered, then flooded into a dazzling new community centerpiece -- the renovated White Center Heights Park....

• June 13: You can't spell trails without rails
  Bicycle enthusiasts, environmentalists, transportation advocates, County Executive Sims and Port Commissioner Edwards pledged to work to secure the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Eastside Rail Corridor and preserve the option for future transit use....

• June 11: Manning, Sims, Grunenfelder to speak about reclaimed water
  Reporters are invited to hear the latest on "reclaiming" water in Washington - and witness the commitment of state and local leaders in converting waste to renewable resource at "Reclaimed Water: Tapping the New Resource" June 12 in Seattle....

• June 8: Starbucks 'Ultimate Park Makeover' in White Center to bring a vital resource to a vibrant community
  Hundreds of Starbucks and White Center community volunteers and King County employees wielded shovels, rolls of sod and a can-do spirit to help kick off a seven-day White Center Heights Park transformation....

• June 8: Candidate filings posted online: 21 vacant positions still need filled
  Though hundreds of candidates filed for office during the five day filing period this week, 21 positions remain where no candidates filed at all. King County Elections will hold a special, three-day filing period June 13 - June 15 for these positions....

• June 7: Local agencies move closer to major federal investment in new strategies to fight highway congestion
  Today a joint proposal by the Puget Sound Regional Council, King County and the Washington State Department of Transportation was named by U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters as one of nine metropolitan areas selected as Preliminary Urban Partners....

• June 7: Candidate filing week continues; many offices still vacant
  Tomorrow marks the end to this year's candidate filing week, a period that occurred earlier than in years past as a result of the August 21 primary....

• June 6: Live music, Midway rides and a demolition derby: King County Fair features great family entertainment
  With non-stop live entertainment, fantastic new Midway rides, livestock and crafts displays, onion burgers, scones and all of the other things that make it so much fun, the 145th annual King County Fair in Enumclaw has something for everyone....

• June 4: Council approves sale of former Kingdome parking lot
  A vibrant new urban neighborhood that includes some family-wage housing may soon rise up on the north half of the former Kingdome north parking lot....

• June 1: Officials prepared for active candidate filing week New August 21 primary
  Monday officially kicks off the fall election season, and election officials expect hundreds of candidates will opt to file for office online....

• June 1: Open water is very dangerous at this time of year -- Drowning threat high in late spring
  Warm weather and cold water is a dangerous combination and each year, King County residents die when they venture into these waters without appropriate lifesaving gear and lifeguard protection....

• June 1: Metro gives goats a spin for weed control
  Those won't be four-legged commuters at the Metro's Tukwila Park-and-Ride this weekend. The herd of 250 goats scheduled to show up on Sunday is actually a "crew" hired to help the transit agency tackle some thorny weed-control issues....

• May 31: Learn how your idea to protect Puget Sound could win $55,000 from King County
  Learn what King County is doing to protect Puget Sound and how your idea to help could win $55,000 at the Puget Soundscape Kickoff Party, June 2, from 6 to 9 p.m., in Pioneer Square"s Occidental Park....

• May 31: Cycling races return to velodrome at King County"s Marymoor Park
  Friday night bicycle racing returns to the Group Health Velodrome at King County's Marymoor Park, June 1 starting at 7:30 p.m....

• Media advisory: Starbucks Ultimate Park Makeover of White Center Heights Park about to begin- King County
  The half million dollar ultimate makeover of White Center Heights Park kicks off next week when hundreds of volunteers take up shovels and hammers for a seven day transformation of the undeveloped park....

• May 31: West Nile virus is here -- avoid mosquito bites
  With mosquito season just around the corner, it's time to starting thinking about West Nile virus....

• May 30: Deadline approaching fast for entry into King County Fair Critter Crowning Contest
  Who will follow in Jake's hoofprints as the 2007 King County Fair's reigning Royal Critter? Time is running out to enter your favorite pet or farm animal in the King County Fair's annual Critter Crowning Contest....

• May 30: Draft rules to protect King County shorelines available for review at public meetings, June 5, 6, 7
  King County has scheduled three public meetings in early June to gather public input on recently drafted land-use regulations that protect shorelines and manage development along streams, lakes and marine areas...

• May 29: Bus service changes begin Saturday, June 2
  Starting Saturday, June 2, King County Metro Transit will make several bus route changes to update service, including adding service on three routes with funding from the Transit Now initiative....

• May 30: Sims lauds County Council for adopting stable sewer rate and fees in 2008
  Customers served by King County's wastewater utility will see no change in their monthly sewer bill in 2008 for the portion of sewer services provided by King County's Wastewater Treatment Division....

• May 25: Executive transmits supplemental budget to council
  Today, Executive Ron Sims officially transmitted to the King County Council a supplemental budget that keeps all Public Health clinics open through 2007 and creates reserves for funding the clinics for 2008 while long-term solutions are developed....

• Statements of mourning from King County officials
  Officials from throughout King County contributed statements to the Prosecuting Attorney's memorial page....

• May 24: King County fetes region's 10,000th 'built-green' home at White Center"s Greenbridge community
  The "green-building boom" of environmentally friendly home construction hit a major milestone today with the designation of the 10,000 th "built green" home in King and Snohomish counties....

• May 23: New cancer-prevention vaccine now available
  Girls in King County and across Washington state will now have access to a new vaccine at no cost that prevents cancer caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV)....

• May 23: King County, state agencies working together to improve safety along popular Green River
  King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) is teaming up with the Sheriff's Office to get a handle on a trend of vandalism and misuse in park and conservation lands along the Green River east of Auburn....

• May 22: Dispose of household hazardous waste responsibly at King County"s Wastemobile
  King County residents can properly dispose of hazardous household items by dropping them by the King County Wastemobile, June 1-3 and again the following weekend, June 8-10, at the Fred Meyer store in Kent....

• May 21: Update of shoreline-management rules not expected to bring significant changes
  Draft land-use regulations that protect King County"s shorelines and manage development along streams, lakes and marine areas are not expected to be significantly different from current rules....

• May 20: King County performance reporting wins national awards, honored by King County Council
  Today the King County Council recognized County Executive Ron Sims and the Executive Branch for recent accomplishments in performance measurement designed to ensure that King County residents receive the best services available....

• May 18: Summer outdoor movie series returns to King County's Marymoor Park
  King County's First Tech Movies @ Marymoor Park returns for a third full summer of laughs, tears and fresh popcorn....

• March 12: County Council authorizes lease of Renton site for Consolidated County Elections Facility
  The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously approved legislation designating the Earlington Business Center in Renton as the site for the County"s new Consolidated Elections Facility, and appropriated $343,000 toward its lease and renovation....

• May 17: Ballot tracking and accountability recommendations sent to Council: Voters to be able to follow ballot online
  When King County moves to all-mail voting next year, voters will be able to use the Web to verify their ballots were mailed on time and received by county elections....

• May 16: King County considers charter changes: Resident input requested as 40th anniversary approaches
  For the first time in a decade, King County residents will have a chance to make changes to the county charter -- the document that operates much like the county's constitution, providing the framework for how the region is governed....

• May 16: King County's Marymoor Park plays host to 'netball,' the region's newest team sport
  "Netball," a sport with an international following that's just beginning to catch on in the United States, takes center stage at King County's Marymoor Park on May 26 when the Emerald City Netball Club hosts a "Netball Open Day."...

• May 16: Sims announces landmark contract to expand Metro fleet
  King County today announced the purchase of up to 500 new buses that will help deliver one of the biggest bus service expansions in Metro history. Most of the buses will be articulated hybrids....

• May 15: Election Day wrap up for Federal Way and Snoqualmie Valley School Districts
  King County Elections posted the last poll ballot totals from 34 polling places in the Federal Way and Snoqualmie Valley School districts....

• May 15: Polls open until 8 p.m. in Federal Way and Snoqualmie Valley School Districts
  It's not too late for poll voters to cast their vote in two important school measures on the May 15 special election ballot....

• May 14: Late spring is the perfect time of year to play in King County Parks - Your Big Backyard
  King County is gearing up for the summer season with a wide variety of great recreational opportunities to get folks outdoors and active in their community....

• May 14: New Mt. Si Bridge kicks off county's 2007 road construction season
  The summer construction season for the King County Road Services Division kicks off this month with a $21.5 million project to replace the 93-year-old Mt. Si Bridge....

• May 11: Take spring cleaning to the next level at White Center's Spring Clean event, May 20
  White Center residents have the opportunity to get outside, work together and beautify their community later this month during White Center's Spring Clean event, May 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m....

• May 11: King County seeks public input on proposal to build connector trail in Marymoor Park
  King County wants to build a safe, permanent connection between two of the most-popular trails in its 175-mile regional trail systems, the Sammamish River Trail and East Lake Sammamish Trail--and the county wants to create the link at Marymoor Park....

• May 11: Safely dispose household hazardous waste with King County's Wastemobile in Bothell/Kenmore, June 1-3
  King County residents can help safeguard the environment by properly disposing of leftover paint, dead car batteries and other household hazardous waste at King County's Wastemobile, which will be at the Kenmore Park and Ride lot June 1-3....

• May 10: Learn about tunnel construction at Brightwater community meeting on May 22
  People seeking more information on upcoming Brightwater construction at Point Wells are invited to a public meeting hosted by King County....

• May 10: King County's environmental purchasing program paying green dividends
  Efforts to safeguard the environment when purchasing things like recycled paper, toner cartridges, biodiesel and hybrid cars are saving King County money and supporting markets for green products....

• May 9: Proclamation: Older Americans Month
  Executive Ron Sims issued a proclamation to recognize May, 2007 as Older Americans Month, and encouraged all residents to honor older adults, and those who care for them, during May and throughout the year....

• May 7: Statement by King County Executive Ron Sims on County Council approval of parks ballot measures
  These proposals will be put before voters as a result of long hours of analysis from a citizen task force and parks staff....

• May 7: Metro and Children's Hospital team up to increase transit choices
  King County Metro's new initiative to deliver expanded transportation options means employees and patients at Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center in North Seattle will have a lot more transit service and incentive choices....

• May 7: County will reach out to uninsured children to get them health and dental care
  Thousands of children will have access to health care thanks to the King County Executive's Children's Health Initiative that was unanimously approved by the Metropolitan King County Council today....

• May 7: Executive Sims' statement on steelhead listing- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims' statement in response to today's news that the National Marine Fisheries Service has listed Puget Sound steelhead as a "threatened" species under the Endangered Species Act...

• May 7: Sewer utility work to affect traffic on Bellevue Way Southeast
  A sewer pipe replacement project scheduled to get underway this week will restrict traffic along Belllevue Way Southeast near Interstate 90 and the Mercer Slough Nature Park....

• May 4: Update on this morning's fluid leak at the King County Jail- King County
  Following this morning's fluid leak incident at the King County Jail, the jail was back to full operations at 11:45 a.m....

• May 3: King County helps commercial building projects 'go green' with grants to owners
  Three new buildings -- one in rural south King County, one on an agricultural site near Woodinville and another at Bellevue's Mercer Slough -- have received grants from King County for their low-impact, sustainable designs....

• May 3: Extra law enforcement looking for intoxicated drivers
  Drinking and driving have no place in the joyful tradition of Cinco de Mayo and extra officers will be out on the roads to make the point....

• May 3: King County accepting applications for 'Best Workplaces for Recycling' list
  Companies with exceptional recycling programs are encouraged to see how they rate against other businesses on King County's "Best Workplaces for Recycling" list....

• May 3: Dedication ceremony to celebrate new Vashon Island wastewater treatment facility
  After eight years of planning and construction, King County is inviting people to celebrate the completion of a clean-water project on Vashon Island that will protect local beaches and improve water quality in Puget Sound....

• May 2: King County"s Wastemobile coming to Shoreline Household hazardous waste will be accepted May 11-13
  King County residents can properly dispose of leftover paint, dead car batteries and other household hazardous items at the King County Wastemobile, May 11-13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Aurora Square Sears parking lot in Shoreline....

• May 2: King County wants old batteries, bulbs and bug killers at Wastemobile collection event in Renton, May 18-20
  Need motivation to clean out the garage, get rid of old bags of weed and feed, or clear out oil-based paints from last year's remodel?...

• April 30: See how King County safeguards the environment; Check out the 2006 DNRP annual report, now online
  King County residents can find out how the region"s natural resources were managed last year by reading the 2006 Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) annual report, "Environmental Stewardship in King County," which is now available online....

• April 30: Preferred alternative selected for Novelty Hill Road improvements
  King County has selected one of three alternatives for improving Novelty Hill Road and connecting streets east of Redmond to increase capacity and enhance safety....

• Transit disruptions expected throughout downtown Seattle Tuesday afternoon
  King County Metro Transit is expecting delays and disruptions to transit service throughout downtown Seattle on Tuesday afternoon, May 1, due to a civic march and an evening baseball game....

• April 27: Campaigning 101: What you need to know to run for public office
  King County Elections will hold a candidate workshop Saturday, May 19 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon to prime candidates on running a successful campaign....

• April 26: More parking for bus riders at Northgate starting Monday
  King County Metro Transit plans to open its section of the new Northgate Mall parking garage to transit riders on Monday morning, April 30 at 5 a.m....

• April 25: Ballots in the mail for voters in the Federal Way and Snoqualmie Valley school districts
  Today more than 46,700 ballots for the May 15 special election will be mailed to absentee voters in the Federal Way and Snoqualmie Valley school districts. Ballots to military, military and out-of-state voters were mailed in early April....

• April 25: King County's Emergency Manager taking expertise to Homeland Security practice- King County
  The nationally respected Director of the King County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), Eric Holdeman, will be leaving the county to pursue a new career in private consulting. Holdeman will be employed locally by ICF International a Fairfax, Virginia b...

• April 25: Sims dedicates nation's first public reflexology paths
  Boost your health -- one bumpy step at a time -- with a visit to cobblestone "reflexology" footpaths at King County's Marymoor and White Center parks....

• April 25: South Park Bridge closed for four days starting April 28
  The King County Road Services Division will close the South Park Bridge over the Duwamish River on 14th/16th Avenue South for repairs from 7 a.m. Saturday, April 28 through 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 1....

• April 24: Fifth-annual Cougar Mountain Trail Running Series benefits health of runners and King County Parks
  May 19 marks the beginning of the fifth-annual Cougar Mountain Trail Running Series, a successful collaboration between King County Parks and the Seattle Running Company....

• April 24: Guided tours, volunteer work party coming to King County's Soaring Eagle Regional Park
  On Saturday, April 28, three guided tours of the park are scheduled, followed by a volunteer clean-up effort to prepare Soaring Eagle for the busy spring and summer seasons....

• April 24: Is your pet ready for the royal spotlight?
  The top dog at this year's fair, set for July 18-22 at the Enumclaw Expo Center, will be invited along with his or her owner to visit the King County Fair as a special guest of the King County Parks Division....

• April 23: Executive services head retires
  Paul Tanaka, a King County department director who served as Deputy County Executive to Ron Sims and Gary Locke, is retiring after nearly 30 years with the county....

• April 23: Passengers celebrate Earth Day by riding Metro free (Video)
  To show how important public transportation is to improving health and air quality, King County Metro Transit offered free rides on all its buses on Sunday, April 22 to celebrate Earth Day....

• April 23: More than half of the materials that go to the Cedar Hills landfill each year are readily recyclable, and King County"s LinkUp program wants to find new markets for these valuable resource
  More than half of the materials that go to the Cedar Hills landfill each year are readily recyclable, and King County"s LinkUp program wants to find new markets for these valuable resources....

• April 23: Sign up for Brightwater habitat restoration tours, April 28
  Community members are invited to preview new trails, native plant landscaping, emerging wetlands habitat and rebuilt salmon-bearing stream corridors being developed as part of the Brightwater Treatment Plant project....

• April 20: Guidebook Will Help Communities Prepare for Climate Change Impacts
  Peer review is about to begin on Setting the Course: A Guidebook on Planning for Global Warming, which is a framework that communities can use to prepare for and adapt to regional climate changes....

• April 20: Sims announces next giant step toward energy independence- King County
  The push to produce fuel made in Washington for Washington is about to come full circle thanks to a first-of-its-kind partnership that will bring an estimated 2 million gallons of homegrown biodiesel to King County....

• April 20: Media advisory, Sims to announce King County's next step toward energy independence- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims will make a major announcement today, April 20 about the next step King County is taking to promote alternative fuel production and energy independence. It is an action that has statewide impacts....

• April 20: It doesn't get any fresher: Farmers markets opening for business across King County
  Farm-fresh, locally grown produce and other agricultural products are becoming easier to find, thanks to an ever-expanding list of farmers markets across King County....

• April 19: Sims names new director of Records, Elections and Licensing Services Division- King County
  The elections manager instrumental in transforming King County Elections is named the new director....

• April 18: Important deadlines approach for independent and minor party candidates
  With the primary moved up to August, critical election deadlines have moved up to two months impacting political parties, jurisdictions and candidate filing....

• April 18: Learn how you can reduce your 'carbon footprint' at King County's Earth Day Expo
  Come to King County's fourth-annual Earth Day Expo, Friday April 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Westlake Plaza in downtown Seattle, and learn how small changes in everyday habits can make a big difference for the planet by reducing your "carbon footprint."...

• April 18: Beware of false internet rumor on earthquake safety; Drop, cover, and hold for statewide earthquake drill
  While DROP, COVER, and HOLD is the most familiar and preferred method of protection during an earthquake in this region of the world, rumors continue to resurface on the internet about the validity of an alternative method called the "Triangle of Life."...

• April 17: Rally, march and ballgame could disrupt afternoon commute Wednesday, April 18
  There will be a rally and two marches taking place in downtown Seattle on Wednesday, April 18 that could coincide with fans arriving for the 7:05 p.m. Mariners baseball game....

• April 17: King County celebrates local schools' "Earth Heroes"
  King County Executive Ron Sims will honor students, teachers, school staff and volunteers for their significant actions on behalf of the environment as winners of "Earth Heroes at School" awards....

• April 16: Sims' plan to repair levees moves forward with creation of countywide flood district
  Executive Ron Sims' plan to protect lives, property and a significant portion of King County's economic infrastructure took a major step forward today when the County Council voted unanimously to form a countywide flood control zone district....

• April 11: Voter registration deadlines fast approaching
  If you live in the Federal Way or Snoqualmie Valley school districts, areas with special elections on May 15, and haven't registered to vote, you have until Saturday, April 14 to mail in a voter registration form....

• April 11: Safety improvements lead to brief closure of trestle on King County's Snoqualmie Valley Trail
  An aging timber railroad trestle that now serves as an essential piece of King County's popular Snoqualmie Valley Trail needs repairs and must be closed for about three weeks beginning April 23 while the work is being done....

• April 11: Media advisory; Sims to announce major donation for low income children"s health care- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims will hold a news conference on Thurs., April 12 at 11 a.m. to announce a major donation from Washington Dental Service (WDS) to expand oral health care for low income children in King County....

• April 9: Proclamation, Community Development Week- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims proclaimed the week of April 9-15, 2007 to be Community Development Week....

• April 6: Sims applauds Flexcar for major expansion
  King County Executive Ron Sims today joined Jamie Cheney, the general manager of Flexcar, in announcing a major expansion of the car-sharing program in King County....

• April 6: King County accepting applications for Youth Sports Facility Grants
  Community youth organizations that are interested developing or renovating neighborhood sports facilities can qualify for matching grants up from County. Recreation...

• April 6: Spring gardening savings begin with Northwest Natural Yard Days
  Sunday, April take advantage savings up 25 percent on natural yard care products such as mulch mowers, bagged compost, bark water wands part Northwest Days campaign. Environment...

• April 5: King County launches annual Roadside Weed Control program
  April 5: King County launches annual Roadside Weed Control program...

• April 5: Treatment plant open house to highlight water pollution prevention, creating resources from wastewater
  In celebration of Earth Day, King County is inviting the public to learn about the most effective method for eliminating water pollution and improving water quality in our region -- wastewater treatme...

• April 5: Metro bus riders can sample Wi-Fi as part of extended pilot project
  If you ride Metro Transit routes 255, 644, 197 or selected trips on the 952 custom bus route serving the Boeing Company"s Everett plant, you can grab your laptop, climb aboard and go on-line...

• April 4: King County Executive Ron Sims' statement on release of Renton events center study- King County
  The Sonics are a civic amenity important to our quality of life. I believe that the region would benefit from the construction of the proposed King County Events Center in Renton....

• April 3: Vashon-Maury Island road/seawall preservation eyed for major King County review
  Two major Vashon-Maury Island travel corridors, and the seawalls that protect them, will be the focus of a major study to determine critical investments that will be needed in the coming years to preserve safety and mobility on the island....

• April 2: At home or work, take a walk for Public Health Week
  This National Public Health Week, Public Health is celebrating an under-appreciated activity by encouraging people to enjoy a walk for better health, and hosting two special, community walks in downtown Seattle....

• April 2: Executive Sims proclaims the week of April 2-8, 2007 to be Public Health Week for King County
  County Executive Ron Sims issued a proclamation designating the week of April 2-8, 2007 to be Public Health Week in King County, Washington....

• March 29: Hidden Lake sewer construction project to affect traffic routes in Shoreline
  Shoreline residents, commuters and park users should take note of an upcoming road closure related to construction on King County's Hidden Lake Sewer Improvement Project....

• March 29: Citizen task force supports renewal of levy, investments in King County Parks system- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims today welcomed the final report of a citizen task force convened to look at ways to strengthen the financial health of King County's park system....

• March 28: Seattle's first all-mail election a success
  King County Elections this morning certified the March 13, 2007 special election, which includes Seattle's very successful first all-mail election that tested several new features of the vote by mail system that will be in place by 2008....

• March 28: County Emergency Manager Nationally Recognized
  King County Office of Emergency Management director Eric Holdeman was recently named as one of the top 25 government officials nationwide for 2006 "pushing the boundaries of government-as-usual" by Government Technology magazine....

• March 27: King County gets $1.9 million to test drive innovative statewide car insurance program- King County
  A statewide pilot program initiated by King County that links car insurance rates to the number of miles driven has won a $1.9 million federal grant....

• March 27: King County honors its employees with Building Green Awards
  King County honors its employees with Building Green Awards...

• March 27: Workshop set to assist Enumclaw-area farmers April 16 workshop will provide farmers with tips on obtaining permits
  Enumclaw Plateau-area farmers can learn more about services and assistance available to them through King County at a free workshop, April 16 at the Neuwaukum Grange....

• March 26: Results posted early today; 221 mail ballots added to vote totals
  King County Elections" tabulation team counted 221 additional mail ballots from the March 13 special election today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated....

• March 23: Four hundred mail ballots added to vote totals
  King County Elections counted 437 mail ballots in the March 13 special election today, most coming in from military, overseas and out-of-state voters....

• March 23 Media advisory: Martin Luther King Jr. in Chicago -- Color Photos of the 1966 Freedom Movement- King County
  Two events on Thursday, March 29, 2007 at Seattle City Hall will celebrate the opening of the photo exhibition, "Martin Luther King Jr. in Chicago -- Color Photos of the 1966 Freedom Movement."...

• March 21: K-9 team joins Metro Transit Police
  Metro Transit Police recently welcomed two new members to the squad - Dep. Tim Morgan and his explosives-sniffing partner "Stevie."...

• March 21: Two hundred mail ballots added to vote totals
  King County Elections counted 223 mail ballots in the March 13 special election today, most coming in from military, overseas and out-of-state voters....

• March 21: Christie True to head Wastewater Treatment Division
  Selected for her extensive experience in both wastewater operations and major capital project management, Christie True today assumed her new role as director of King County's Wastewater Treatment Division (WTD)....

• March 20: Mail ballots still trickling in one week after election day; 395 mail ballots added to vote totals
  King County Elections counted 395 mail ballots in the March 13 special election today, most coming in from military, overseas and out-of-state voters....

• March 20: New boarding location for bus riders at Issaquah Park-and-Ride
  Starting Saturday, March 24, transit passengers will have a new location to board and exit buses at the Issaquah Park-and-Ride....

• March 20: Bond and rate proposals offer benefits to sewer ratepayers
  King County sewer ratepayers will continue to benefit from infrastructure upgrades and a stable monthly rate under two proposals submitted last week to the King County Council by King County Executive Ron Sims....

• March 20: Sims to honor Paul Robeson Scholar-Athletes
  Academic achievements of more than 600 student athletes ranging from kindergarteners to sophomores in high school will be honored for their accomplishments in the classroom and on the playing field at the 20th annual Paul Robeson Scholar-Athlete Awards....

• March 19: Nearly 3,000 more mail ballots added to vote totals
  Ballots are still coming in for the March 13 special election. King County Elections counted 2,967 additional absentee ballots today, most from City of Seattle voters....

• March 19: King County hosts open house for update on plans to improve SW 98th Street in White Center
  King County is hosting an open house to update the public on how the county and its partners plan to make SW 98th St more inviting for pedestrians and bicycles between the White Center business district and the new Greenbridge housing area....

• March 16: More than 14,000 ballots added to vote totals
  Ballots are still coming in for the March 13 special election. King County Elections counted 14,850 additional absentee ballots today, most from City of Seattle voters....

• Law enforcement on the lookout for impaired drivers; Police aim to keep Saint Patrick's Day celebrations safe
  March 16: Public Health - Seattle & King County and the King County Traffic Safety Coalition are alerting drivers that police departments around King County will have extra DUI patrols working the Saint Patrick's Day holiday....

• March 16: Wastewater construction leads to lane closures along 73rd Avenue Northeast in Kenmore
  Work related to King County's Brightwater Treatment Plant construction project will restrict traffic along 73rd Avenue Northeast in Kenmore for the next few weeks....

• March 16: Demonstrations could disrupt bus service Sunday and Monday in downtown Seattle
  Demonstrations and protest marches in downtown Seattle could disrupt transit service on Sunday and Monday, March 18 and 19....

• March 16: Sixth-annual Small Farm Expo slated for March 24 at the Enumclaw Exposition Center
  Interested in learning about shearing and spinning fiber, how to brew beer, what type of alternative energy you could use, or how to manage wildlife on your land? Join us on March 24th, for the Small Farm Expo in Enumclaw....

• March 15: King County Board of Health advances healthy eating and active living
  The King County Board of Health today formally endorsed a resolution to address the increasing problem of obesity in King County....

• March 15: Third day of ballot counting, 45 percent of Seattle ballots returned
  King County Elections counted 18,209 additional absentee ballots today, most from City of Seattle voters....

• March 15: Annual Duwamish Alive! clean-up effort needs volunteers for Earth Day activities
  Home to King County's largest population of threatened chinook salmon, and flowing through in the heart of Seattle's industrial core, the Duwamish River is an important waterway for both wildlife and people....

• March 15: Create the ultimate landscape with King County's free naturescaping workshop, native plant salvage
  Landscapes created with native vegetation require less maintenance, conserve water and can thrive without potentially harmful pesticides--and they can be beautiful....

• March 15: Sims appoints commission to begin King County Charter Review- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims formally appointed 21 commission members in March to review the charter, which serves as the constitution for King County government....

• March 14: Second day of ballot counting
  King County Elections counted 28,320 additional absentee ballots today, most from City of Seattle voters....

• March 14: King County, Seattle offering new incentives for green-building residential projects
  Single-family residential developers have a new way to "go green," thanks to a new incentive program from King County and the City of Seattle....

• March 13: Election Day wrap up
  King County Elections has posted the last poll ballot totals from 36 polling places in the Highline School District and Skykomish School district....

• March 13: Hmong farmers need home gardeners' help after heavy floods wipe out dahlia flower crops
  Generations of farmers have earned a living from working the fertile bottomlands along King County's Snoqualmie River. Many of those riverside livelihoods were wiped out last November as widespread flooding inundated farmlands and ruined crops....

• March 13: Lower Tolt River restoration project public meeting April 5 in Carnation
  The Carnation community will have another opportunity to learn about and comment on a proposal for restoring the lower Tolt River and rebuilding an old flood-protection levee at a public meeting, set for April 5....

• March 13: King County media office opens
  King County Elections has established a media room at the Temporary Elections Annex to assist reporters and other media throughout Election Day....

• March 12: Executive praises County Council for approval of new logo
  King County Executive Ron Sims praised King County Council's unanimous historic vote approving a new county logo in the image of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr....

• March 12: Ready, set, VOTE!
  Tomorrow is Election Day for residents of Seattle or living in the Skykomish or Highline school districts....

• March 12: King County urges groundwater awareness: Think about the water you drink, March 11-17
  A King County survey found 97 percent of residents polled believed protecting water quality is important, yet many people do not realize their actions have an impact on groundwater quality and quantity....

• March 12: King County Wastewater utility crew responds to small overflow on Mercer Island
  A King County wastewater utility crew quickly stopped a small overflow that occurred at South Mercer Island Pump Station during a local power outage late Saturday morning....

• March 12: King County proposes reducing the speed limit on four roads near Enumclaw
  The King County Road Services Division will hold a public hearing Thursday, April 5 at 11 a.m. in downtown Seattle to gather public comment on a proposal to lower the speed limit on four streets near Enumclaw....

• March 12: King County proposes reducing the speed limit on two sections of West Snoqualmie Valley Road Northeast
  The King County Road Services Division will hold a public hearing on Thursday, April 5 at 9 a.m. in downtown Seattle to gather public comment on a proposal to lower the speed limit in two locations on West Snoqualmie Valley Road Northeast....

• March 11: New logo represents values of county and its citizens
  The proposed new King County logo, an original graphic image of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was unveiled at a community celebration attended by current and former county elected leaders, the governor and community leaders....

• March 9: Media advisory, King County to unveil its new logo: an image of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.!- King County
  King County will reach a significant milestone in its 155 year history this weekend when a new logo in the image of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is unveiled at a community event on Sunday, March 11....

• March 8: King County Board of Health meeting on March 15, 2007
  The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Thursday, March 15, 2007, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m....

• March 8: Proclamation, Colon Cancer Awareness Day
  King County Executive Ron Sims proclaimed Thursday, March 8, 2007 to be Colon Cancer Awareness Day....

• March 6: Wastewater infrastructure investments a major priority in 2007
  Continuing its forward-thinking program to ensure the regional sewer system functions reliably and keeps pace with growth, King County's Wastewater Treatment Division will invest $230 million this year in capital improvement projects....

• March 6: Brightwater project manager earns national honors as 2006 Local Official of the Year- King County
  Recognizing that an economically vibrant building industry depends on wastewater infrastructure, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) selected Brightwater project manager Christie True as Local Official of the Year for 2006....

• March 6: Bring batteries, bulbs and bug killers to King County's Wastemobile in Federal Way, March 16-18 and March 23-25
  King County residents can safely and easily dispose of hazardous items by dropping them by the King County Wastemobile, March 16 through 18 or March 23 through 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at The Commons shopping center in Federal Way....

• March 6: King County's Wastemobile travels to Des Moines
  King County residents can safely and easily dispose of hazardous products that are too dangerous to throw away with the household trash by taking them to the King County Wastemobile, March 9-11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Des Moines Marina....

• Feb. 27: Save the environment one plant at a time with King County's Native Plant Salvage Program
  Volunteers are needed to dig out and pot up native trees and shrubs during King County's two-part restoration project on Saturday, March 10....

• Feb. 27: King County Wastemobile kicks off 18th year of quality service, March 2-4, at Auburn SuperMall
  King County residents can easily dispose of hazardous waste items such as batteries and paint by dropping them by the King County Wastemobile, March 2-4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the SuperMall in Auburn....

• Feb. 26: County, Port, BNSF announce signed memoranda on land deal
  Documents signed today by leaders of King County, the Port of Seattle and BNSF Railway move closer to saving an invaluable Eastside rail corridor for public use, and to transportation improvements that could mean billions of dollars in economic activity....

• March 25: Sims, Dinsmore, and Rose to hold joint news conference Monday morning
  County Executive Sims, Port of Seattle CEO Dinsmore and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF) Chairman, President and CEO Matt Rose will hold a news conference on the effort to bring BNSF"s Eastside rail corridor into public ownership....

• Feb. 22: May Valley Road to close week of Feb. 26 for repairs
  A section of Southeast May Valley Road between Renton and Issaquah will be closed for five days starting Monday, Feb. 26, while the King County Road Services Division fixes damage to the roadway and shoulder from recent winter storms....

• Feb. 21: Veterans, Human Services Levy Advisory Boards to hold first business meeting- King County
  Citizen members of two new advisory boards created by the Veterans and Human Services Levy will hold their first business meeting on Feb. 22, 2007 in Seattle....

• Feb. 21: Ready, set, VOTE! Ballots in the mail for all voters in Seattle and absentee voters in Highline, Skykomish school districts
  Today more than 365,000 ballots for the March 13 election will be mailed to voters in three jurisdictions in King County: all voters in the City of Seattle, and absentee voters in the Highline and Skykomish school districts....

• Feb. 21: Jail inmate dies at Harborview Medical Center- King County
  A King County jail inmate was pronounced dead on Wed., Feb. 21, 2007, at Harborview Medical Center at 1:30 a.m....

• Feb. 21: King County, Seattle receive homeless assistance award of $18.4 million
  The City of Seattle and King County have been awarded $18,419,068 in federal McKinney Homeless Assistance funds for housing programs and support services for homeless people....

• Feb. 20: Election results update
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 214 absentee ballots today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated...

• Feb. 20: Public invited to tour Brightwater habitat restoration site on Saturday, March 3
  On Saturday, March 3, people are invited to preview new trails, native plant landscaping, emerging wetlands habitat and rebuilt salmon-bearing stream corridors being developed as part of the Brightwater Treatment Plant project....

• Feb. 17: King County child dies from bacterial infection
  A seven year old Bellevue child who had experienced flu-like symptoms died this morning from a bacterial infection affecting the lining of the heart....

• Feb. 16: Election results update
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 63 absentee ballots today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated....

• Feb. 15: King County child dies with symptoms of the flu
  The heartbreaking death of a Seattle child occurred Wednesday and early reports indicate the eight-year-old girl had symptoms of a flu-like illness at the time of death....

• Feb. 15: Election results update
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 1400 absentee ballots today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated....

• Feb. 15: Executive transmits report on all-mail voting
  Voters and King County Elections are closer to benefiting from the convenience and efficiency of all mail balloting with completion of a comprehensive plan unveiled today....

• Feb. 14: Election results update
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 174 absentee ballots today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated....

• Feb. 13: Election results update
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 391 absentee ballots today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated....

• Feb. 14: Sims to salmon managers: Prepare now for pending global warming impacts- King County
  Executive Ron Sims told an international salmon panel today that the potential impacts of global warming on fish stocks need immediate attention....

• Feb. 12: Election results update
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 1322 absentee ballots today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated....

• Feb. 9: Election results update
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 7811 absentee ballots today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated....

• Feb. 8: Election results update
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 11018 absentee ballots today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated....

• Feb. 8: Help keep King County animals safe! Serve on the Animal Control Citizen's Advisory Committee
  King County is looking for citizens to serve on its Animal Control Citizen's Advisory Committee....

• Feb. 8: Registration deadlines fast approaching
  If you live in the City of Seattle, Skykomish or Highline school districts, areas with special elections on March 13 and haven't registered to vote, you have until Saturday, Feb. 10 to mail in a registration form....

• Feb. 8: $15 million awarded for affordable and supportive housing- King County
  Responding to the urgent need for affordable housing and stronger supports for fragile individuals and families, King County Executive Ron Sims announced $15.2 million in grants....

• Feb. 7: King County Proposes Global Warming Action Plan
  Calling global warming the defining issue of the 21st Century, King County Executive Ron Sims today called on the region to cut greenhouse gas pollution by 80 percent below current levels by 2050, and invest in making our communities resilient to expected...

• Feb. 7: Election results update
  The King County Elections tabulation team counted 9,336 absentee ballots today, which represents all ballots on hand ready to be tabulated....

• Feb. 6: Final numbers Election Day results posted, 99.7% of precincts counted King County Media office closed
  King County Elections" has posted the last batch of poll ballot totals....

• Feb. 6: King Conservation District Election Feb.13, 2007
  King County Elections does not have any role in the conduct of the King Conservation District election. Learn more at http://www.kingcd.org/new_cal_ele_not_2_5_07.htm or http://www.scc.wa.gov/. For more information, call: 425-277-5581...

• Feb. 6: King County media office closed
  The King County Elections Media Hotline is now closed. To schedule interviews with interim Director James Buck, or for tours or assistance at the Temporary Election Annex where ballots are being processed and counted please call Megan Coppersmith or Bobbi...

• Feb. 6: King County media office opens
  King County Elections has established a media room at the Temporary Elections Annex to assist reporters and other media throughout Election Day. Staff will be available to assist with information and requests for interviews with key Elections officials, i...

• Feb. 6: Sims encourages local farmers, chefs to work together for better health, environment, economy- King County
  Saying that buying food grown locally is good for the health of people, the environment and the economy, King County Executive Ron Sims encouraged local farmers and restaurant chefs to continue strengthening their bonds....

• Feb. 5: Poll voters reminded of changes at the polls tomorrow
  Some voters in North Bend, Seattle, SeaTac and Renton may be detoured to a new polling location tomorrow when they go to vote....

• Feb. 1: our-case cluster of highly-resistant HIV found in King County
  Four King County men have tested positive for similar HIV viruses that are highly resistant to several antiretroviral drug classes....

• Feb 1: Affordable housing a challenge for many in King County- King County
  King County today issued the 2006 Affordable Housing Benchmark Report, which illustrates the ongoing challenge for many of the county's households to secure affordable housing...

• Jan. 24: Animal cruelty investigation receives five tips, body of seventh puppy found
  Six days into its investigation of an animal cruelty case involving six puppies abandoned in an Issaquah area dumpster last Thursday, King County Animal Services and Pasado's Safe Haven have received five tips related to this case....

• Jan. 23: It's a great time to get a flu shot
  Public Health officials are alerting residents that now is the time to get vaccinated against the seasonal flu....

• Jan. 22: King County gives final green light to major Northgate redevelopment plan
  The King County Executive's transit proposal that is key to a major four-way partnership to create a new transit-oriented urban center at Northgate shopping mall cleared its final hurdle today with approval by the County Council....

• Jan. 22: Juvenile dies after arrest early Friday morning
  A juvenile who was in custody for a short time at the King County Juvenile Detention Facility early Friday morning has died at Harborview Medical Center....

• Jan. 22: Puppies found in dumpster, $7,500 reward offered
  King County Animal Services is investigating a potential animal cruelty case involving six golden retriever/Labrador mix puppies rescued from a dumpster....

• Jan. 19: Sewer workers quickly stop overflow at Vashon Island Treatment Plant
  King County"s sewer utility staff quickly stopped a sewage spill that occurred about 1 p.m. when a broken pump valve caused a solids holding tank to overflow at the Vashon Island Treatment Plant....

• Jan. 17: Starbucks Coffee Company donates $550,000 to King County's White Center Heights Park- King County
  Just like the reality TV shows featuring extreme home makeovers in only a few days, the White Center community is getting a new park, thanks to the generosity of the Starbucks Neighborhood Parks Program....

• Jan. 16: King County's flood protection gets boost from County Council's unanimous vote
  King County's levees and other flood-control facilities will be strengthened and improved so that they will continue to provide critical flood protection for thousands of lives and billions of dollars in property in our region...

• Jan. 16, Media advisory: King County announcing major new partnership with corporate leader- King County
  King County Executive Ron Sims has scheduled a press conference to announce a gift that will create a one-of-a-kind community project on Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 2 p.m. in the eighth floor conference room of the King Street Center, 201 S. Jackson St. in Seat...

• Jan. 16: Shoreline management review launched in King County
  The public is encouraged to participate in a state-mandated review of King County's program that manages marine areas, lakes and streams in unincorporated areas....

• Jan 12: February special election ballots in the mail next week
  More than 258,000 absentee voters in areas throughout King County will receive absentee ballots in the mail next week for the upcoming Feb. 6 special election. Absentee ballots will be mailed starting Jan. 17....

• Jan. 12: King County offers free collection of storm debris for wood, yard waste at Enumclaw, Cedar Falls facilities
  King County residents who continue clearing debris from mid-December"s powerful windstorm can drop off wood and yard waste free of charge at the Enumclaw Transfer Station and the Cedar Falls drop box facility in North Bend, Jan. 20-21....

• Jan. 12: Metro hosts sessions to review proposed transit changes for parts of the Eastside
  King County Metro Transit and Sound Transit are finalizing a proposal to improve the bus network on the Eastside, particularly in the communities of Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Bothell, Woodinville, and Duvall....

• Jan. 11: King County"s annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration- King County
  King County marked its 20th anniversary celebration honoring its namesake, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Thurs. Jan. 11, 2007 at the Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall at Benaroya Hall. The theme was: It Started with a Dream…Many Views, One Vision....

• Jan. 11: King County Civil Rights Commission announces student essay contest winners- King County
  The King County Civil Rights Commission today presented the eighth annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Writing Contest Awards for the best student essays on Dr. King's work....

• Jan. 10: Public Health officials report one case of imported measles
  Local public health officials have confirmed a case of measles in an adult Snohomish County resident who acquired the disease in Asia. Also known as rubeola, measles is a potentially severe disease caused by the measles virus....

• Jan. 8: Logic and Accuracy test of vote counting equipment begins next week
  King County Elections will begin conducting a logic and accuracy test on all poll equipment, including accessible voting units, at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18 at the Election Distribution Center located at 1215 East Fir St. in Seattle....

• Jan. 8: King County Council to Engage Citizens on Budget Priorities and Performance of Government
  The Metropolitan King County Council today launched a new initiative to engage citizens in a public process to prioritize services for the 2008 King County Budget, and help evaluate how their money is being spent....

• Jan. 8: Metro Transit hit ridership record in 2006
  The early numbers are in--and it looks like King County Metro Transit set a new record for ridership in 2006 with a preliminary estimate of 103.2 million passenger boardings....

• Jan. 5: Voter registration deadline soon
  If you live in one of the many areas participating in the upcoming February 6 special election and haven"t registered to vote, you have until Saturday, Jan.6 to mail in a registration form....

• Jan. 5: King County installs temporary surface sewer line near Luther Burbank Park
  King County Wastewater Treatment Division contractors yesterday completed a project to install a temporary sewer line near Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island....

• Jan. 3: Resolve to deliver democracy this year
  With the new year upon us, King County Elections urges you to "resolve" to support democracy and meet other civic-minded residents by serving as an Election Day poll worker in 2007....

• Jan. 2: King County"s noxious weed board meets Jan. 17; Noxious weed list could grow by three
  Noxious Weed Board may add yellow archangel, common fennel, spurge laurel to list