Metropolitan King County Council 516 Third Ave., Rm. 1200 Seattle, WA 98104 Phone: 206-296-1000 Toll Free: 800-325-6165 TTY/TDD: 206-296-1024 Fax: 206-296-0198 council@kingcounty.gov
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Oct. 15, 2008 King County Council approves legislative package to improve historic preservation practicesEnhancing efforts to protect King County’s heritageProtecting the past for future generations was made easier by the Metropolitan King County Council with its Oct. 13 adoption of four ordinances improving historic preservation practices in King County. Historic preservation is the deliberate effort to ensure that historically significant properties are preserved for future generations to use and enjoy. The practices adopted will advance the county’s efforts to preserve its heritage and protect its historic resources.
The passage of the legislation is the capstone of nearly a year’s worth of work to improve historic preservation practices in the county. In 2007, as part of the annual budget, the council recognized the importance of advancing historic preservation and requested county agencies to submit plans for enhancing the county’s efforts in this regard.
“Improving historic preservation practices enhances the quality of life for King County residents. Historic buildings embody our collective history and influence our community identity,” said Councilmember Bob Ferguson, sponsor of the legislation. “When properly cared for, our historic resources can be an engine for economic development and a source of civic pride.”
“Historic preservation embodies our best efforts to protect our physical heritage, providing both cultural and environmental benefits,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips, co-sponsor of the legislation and chair of the Capital Budget Committee. “Finding ways to lengthen the useful life of our buildings means we are conserving energy and sending less construction debris to landfills. This action today prioritizes historic preservation in a way that does not break the bank in these difficult economic times.”
The council approved two historic preservation action plans:
• Outlining proper stewardship of county-owned historic buildings and properties,
• Streamlining the permitting process for privately owned historically significant properties.
The council also increased funding sources for historic preservation by making preservation projects eligible for major maintenance reserve funds, which are used to ensure county buildings reach their full and useful life. In addition, the council continued its effort to restore the King County Courthouse by approving updated cost estimates and a financing plan for refurbishing the historic landmark. In the 1960’s, the courthouse’s original south entrance was closed to the public and its elegant Alaskan marble lobby was converted into a loading dock.
The four ordinances build upon King County’s existing policies for promoting historic preservation. Preservation of historic properties maintains a tangible connection with the past for residents, contributes character, diversity, and aesthetic value to communities, and plays a significant role in the region's appeal to tourists.
“The council’s actions show a keen understanding of the significance of honoring past investments by preserving landmarks and extending the useful lives of buildings,” said Lauren McCroskey, chair of the King County Landmarks Commission. “Preservation is important to our heritage and historic resources are a vital part of our everyday lives.”
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