Reform and accountability top Patterson’s goals as County Council chair for 2008

Stronger oversight of county government and the implementation of recently approved tax measures are the top priorities for Council Chair Julia Patterson, who today gaveled in her first meeting as the 2008 Chair of the Metropolitan King County Council. She is the first chair of the Council from a district outside Seattle since 2001.

“Recently voters have overwhelmingly supported continuation of Medic One services, new investments in regional parks and trails, and expansion of public transit,” said Patterson. “The County has also recently taken significant steps to improve public safety by embarking on a major flood levee repair program, begun efforts to reform our mental health system, and taken on the responsibility for providing passenger ferry service. Citizens have expressed strong support for these initiatives and expect results and progress as we begin the New Year. As we move into 2008, we need to roll up our sleeves and effectively deliver these new services.”

“As we take on these new responsibilities and initiatives, we will continue our strong oversight over King County’s existing duties,” said Patterson. “We won’t be afraid to ask the tough questions and constantly review our performance and delivery of important county services.”

In recent years Patterson has successfully enacted numerous reform measures including creation of the Law Enforcement Office of Independent Oversight, improvements to King County Animal Control facilities and operations, a major audit of King County Elections, and creation of a citizen commission that spent several months reviewing King County government.

Patterson formerly served as a State Senator, a State Representative and as a founding member of the SeaTac City Council. She has served in numerous leadership positions on regional boards and committees, including as Chair of the Puget Sound Regional Council’s Transportation Policy Board, Chair of the King County Board of Health and a member of the Sound Transit Board of Directors.

“I have always believed that for King County government to be successful we need to maintain collaborative relationships with city, port and state leaders,” said Patterson. “Whether we live in one of King County’s 39 cities or are one of the 360,000 residents who reside in unincorporated or rural King County, we all share a common desire for better parks, more recreation opportunities, a strong criminal justice system, a clean environment, quality public health services and a safety net to provide for our most vulnerable. These issues transcend city borders and require cooperation among many governments. None of us can do it alone. I look forward to continuing my close working relationships with regional elected leaders from both parties to improve the quality of life for the citizens we all represent.”