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News
January
8, 2008
Constantine,
state legislators call Glacier decision a major setback for Puget
Sound
“It’s
ironic that, even as we are asking state taxpayers to spend billions
to clean up Puget Sound, this decision gives a green light to a
project that will destroy a crucial piece of our remaining nearshore
environment,” said Constantine. “I’m extremely disappointed by the
court’s refusal to hear the case, but hopeful that federal regulators
may yet intervene to halt this destructive project.”
October 8, 2007
Council
calls for urgent reforms at King County animal shelters, or an end
to shelter service
“King County has an absolute obligation to these animals
to provide humane care, medical treatment, and food and shelter.
We must do everything in our power to give them a chance to be reunited
with their families or placed in a safe and loving home. If we are
unable to provide appropriate care and facilities, we simply should
not be in the shelter business.”
October 8, 2007
Council
creates advisory panel to conduct review of King County Investment
Pool
“Many local governments within King County count on
the investment pool to securely and strategically invest their scarce
public funds. We have an excellent record of managing this money
professionally and prudently to the benefit of taxpayers across
the county. This system of independent review will help us to maintain
and even improve this fund’s performance.”
October 8, 2007
County
Council finds good homes for “retired” County vans
“A non-profit organization can do a lot of good with
a used van that would otherwise be sold for a tiny fraction of its
original value.”
October 1, 2007
Council
to emphasize oversight and fiscal policies in reviewing 2008 proposed
budget
“King County’s revenues are not keeping up with inflation.
Cost increases for items such as fuel and employee health insurance
strain our ability to maintain services. The first solution must
not be cutting services, nor raising taxes, but forging ahead with
efficiency measures to get the most value for each public dollar.”
September 27, 2007
Citizen
panel identifies “deplorable state” of King County animal
shelters in Crossroads and Kent
A
citizens advisory committee issued a report critical of “deplorable”
conditions at King County’s animal shelters in Kent and the
Bellevue/Crossroads area, prompting members of the Metropolitan
King County Council to call for immediate action to provide the
most basic levels of humane care for the animals who depend on it.
September
7, 2007
Council
rejects adoption of Initiative 25, lets it go to November ballot
as submitted
“All this ordinance does is ensure that the measure will appear
in the November voters’ pamphlet and avoid the extra cost
that would have been required to print a separate pamphlet.”
September 5, 2007
Council
united in expressing condolences on the passing of former Congresswoman
Jennifer Dunn
“Jennifer Dunn was an outstanding legislator and a strong
advocate for her district and her party in Congress. She was a trailblazer
for women in politics as the first woman to be elected a Republican
state party chair and the first woman to run for House Majority
Leader.”
September 4, 2007
Gang
suppression unit proposed for King County Sheriff’s Office
“We need an organized, securely funded law enforcement
response to gang-related crime in our communities. At the same time,
we must remember that supporting positive programs for young people
and intervening to steer at-risk kids away from gangs are equally
important parts of the battle against gang activity.”
September 4, 2007
Council
calls on state Legislature to allow King County to increase auditing
of elections
“All King County asks is state authorization to adopt a more
thorough post-election audit system. The current rules were written
with small counties in mind, limiting our ability to do all that
King County's nearly two million citizens—and well over a
million voters—need and deserve.”
August 20, 2007
Restoration
project complete, County Council approves sale of surplus property
on Taylor Creek
“The Taylor Creek project has improved wildlife habitat, while
reducing flooding in the area. The Council’s action today
gets a usable home back into private ownership and refunds a portion
of the project’s total cost into County coffers.”
August 9, 2007
Water
Taxi ridership shatters previous records
“The steady increase in ridership shows that the Elliott Bay
Water Taxi has established itself as an important part of local
transit service.”
July 30, 2007
Snoqualmie
Valley farmers get tools to protect against winter flooding
“Flooding can have catastrophic long-term effects for
farmers who lose livestock, equipment, supplies and property to
these natural disasters. By protecting the vital economic interests
of farmers, we sustain King County’s agricultural heritage and encourage
the production of locally grown food.”
July 30, 2007
Council
names King County’s Regional Justice Center after the late
Norm Maleng
“Under Norm’s leadership, King County
developed many of the programs housed in this justice center. Through
the use of innovative concepts such as Drug Court, Domestic Violence
Court, and Re-Licensing Court, King County has helped shift our
emphasis from merely warehousing offenders to intervening with the
treatment, rehabilitation and resources needed to turn lives around.”
July
30, 2007
Council
recognizes legacy of Kathryn Taylor by renaming equestrian park
in her honor
“Kathryn Taylor was a passionate, capable advocate for King County
equestrians for more than three decades, so renaming this park in
her honor is a fitting tribute. Kathryn played a personal role in
ensuring equestrian trails were part of the Trilogy development
and were preserved elsewhere in King County. Her work will benefit
horse owners for many years to come.”
July
30, 2007
Council reiterates
support for vote-by-mail elections
“This motion reinforces our intent to implement vote-by-mail,
asks that the elections section prepare our existing election system
for 2008, invites the executive to continue working with vendors
on a new system to replace our aging elections system, and strongly
emphasizes security measures.”
July
25, 2007
Dunn
and Constantine Launch DDES Reforms
“We are going to build on the excellent improvements that
DDES is currently making to its customer outreach. This proposal
is aimed at ensuring fairness for property owners and increasing
voluntary compliance with important environmental and land-use laws.”
July 24, 2007
Constantine
praises halt to demolition of
Lora Lake Apartments
“By calling ‘time out’ and focusing on solutions,
I think we can come up with a plan that preserves or even expands
affordable housing options in King County, while respecting the
genuine need of the city of Burien to generate greater revenues
within its borders.”
July 9, 2007
Council
preserves voters’ right to secret ballot in vote-by-mail system
“The Washington State Constitution guarantees all citizens
the right to cast a secret ballot. We must protect this right by
accurately tracking the return and signature verification of every
voter’s sealed envelope, while ensuring that the ballot inside
cannot later be connected with a particular voter.”
July 3, 2007
Voters to decide
in November on six-year levy to continue life-saving Medic One services
“This longstanding regional partnership has saved
countless lives by providing an unequaled level of emergency care.
This levy gives our firefighters and paramedics the resources they
need to continue to protect our homes and families.”
June 25, 2007
King County
Council approves regional “Roads and Transit” Plan for
submittal to voters in November
“As the only member of the RTID Executive Board
whose district includes part of the city of Seattle, I wanted to
ensure that this package offered real benefits to citizens who currently
travel the Alaskan Way Viaduct and West Seattle Bridge. I worked
to include funding to reconstruct the South Park Bridge, improve
the Spokane Street corridor by widening the roadway and adding new
ramps for transit, freight and cars, and to create a new elevated
east-west corridor at Lander Street—all of which will help
keep Southwest King County moving.”
June 25, 2007
Council
initiates program to ensure oversight of major capital projects
“Voters have a right to expect the highest level
of financial accountability on major public construction projects.
This contract will protect taxpayers by giving the Council early
warning of any problems so that we can act to ensure construction
is completed on time and within budget.”
June 5, 2007
Council
approves five-point plan for emergency preparedness
“It is important that we work now while the sun is shining
and all is well, so that we can be better prepared for future emergencies.”
June 4, 2007
Council
approves sale of old Kingdome parking lot for mixed-use housing
“Out of this sea of asphalt will grow a great urban community—served
by the region’s transit hub—that will invigorate and
enrich the historic neighborhoods on all sides.”
May 31, 2007
Constantine
works to get Seattle area mobility projects into RTID package
“This final package is a significant improvement
over the previous draft. It is better for the environment and better
for Seattle area commuters.”
May 25, 2007
Statement
of mourning from Councilmember Dow Constantine on the passing of
Norm Maleng
"Norm Maleng was one of the most decent, sincere people I have
known in public life. He always had a kind word, some gentle advice
for a younger colleague. "
May
24, 2007
Burien-Renton
light rail study to be part of November roads and transit measure
“With the information from these studies and the Roads and
Transit investment in the Burien Transit Center, Southwest King
County is well poised for future light rail extensions.”
May 10, 2007
Protecting
the secret ballot: Constantine files legislation to safeguard privacy
of individual voters
“The right to cast a secret ballot is guaranteed to
all citizens by our state Constitution. We must protect this right
by ensuring that we accurately track the return of every voter’s
sealed envelope, while preventing any chance that the ballot inside
could be connected with a particular voter.”
May 7, 2007
Voters
to decide in August on levy package to maintain County parks, expand
open space and trails
“This two-part levy will enable King County to better maintain
our trails, parks and open space, while protecting key watersheds
and increasing recreational opportunities. This ballot measure will
benefit both the health of our environment and of King County residents.”
May 7, 2007
Investing
in our future: Council adopts public-private plan to improve children’s
access to health care
“This is the right time and the right program to help protect
the 15,000 children in King County who do not have medical or dental
coverage. This initiative enables families to connect with existing
efforts aimed at protecting and improving their children’s
health.”
April 30, 2007
County
Council creates King County Ferry District to enable operation of
local waterborne transit
“With the impending replacement of the Alaskan Way Viaduct
and the State Route 520 Bridge, we must seize this opportunity to
use our open waters to get people out of gridlock.”
April 23, 2007
County
residents cite public health clinics, alternatives to incarceration
as their top budget priorities
“This initiative has shown us the interest that
people from throughout King County have in the budget process. Their
insights, concerns and questions will have an impact on how we construct
the 2008 budget.
April 18, 2007
Summer’s
coming and so is the Water Taxi!!
“Commuters and visitors alike have embraced this vital transportation
link. The Water Taxi gives people direct access between West Seattle
and Downtown without having to battle traffic.”
April 16, 2007
Council creates
first countywide body for regional coordination and funding of flood
control projects
“Last winter's storm damage exposed the weaknesses of our multi-district
flood control system in protecting lives and propert. This legislation
replaces our former piecemeal approach to flood protection with
a unified, regional system and guides our future investments in
repairs and upgrades to flood control facilities across King County.”
April
16, 2007
Constantine,
Sims see failure of shoreline protection legislation as bad sign
for Puget Sound’s future
“The state will ask taxpayers to spend more than $9 billion
over the next 13 years to fund Puget Sound’s recovery. Yet,
legislative leaders lack the political will to take even the most
basic steps, such as stopping the giveaway of critical public tidelands
to a multinational corporation. This bill would have protected tidelands
owned by the citizens of this State from the construction and operation
of a massive barge loading facility. If the Puget Sound partnership
is to succeed, we cannot continue the destruction of our remaining
nearshore environment.”
April 16, 2007
Financial
policy panel ready to examine “fiscal health” of County
to benefit taxpayers
“This expert panel will measure how well our fiscal
policies work together. King County taxpayers will benefit greatly
from this professional financial review and guidance.”
April 2, 2007
Council
calls for review of election security plans by citizens and experts
“The Elections Section has worked hard to incorporate suggested
improvements to ensure that we continue to have a safe, secure and
reliable election process. This panel system will provide a high
level of scrutiny as we weigh the purchase of new equipment and
institute new election security measures.”
March 30, 2007
Phillips
and Constantine Add Study of Light Rail to Ballard and West Seattle
to ST2
“By studying light rail to West Seattle and Ballard
for a potential ‘West Link’ line, Sound Transit is poised
to move forward as opportunities present themselves to add high
capacity transit.”
March 19, 2007
Constantine
to testify Wednesday in support of strengthening state aquatic reserve
program
King County
Councilmember Dow Constantine will speak in support of legislation
strengthening Washington's aquatic reserve program at this Wednesday's
meeting of the Washington House of Representatives Select Committee
on Puget Sound.
March 14, 2007
Statement
from Councilmember Dow Constantine on the Future of Alaskan Way
Corridor
“State and local leaders must move quickly
to offer commuters both transit alternatives and roadway improvements
in addition to the package announced today. Regardless of the final
choice made for this corridor, we must have transportation choices
for citizens in place before the viaduct comes down.”
March 12, 2007
County
Council Authorizes Lease of Renton Site for Consolidated County
Elections Facility
“This location allows us to more quickly consolidate our elections
functions as recommended by the Citizens Elections Oversight Committee.
Our expectation is that this facility will be in operation in time
for the 2008 presidential election.”
March 12, 2007
King
County Takes Historic Vote to Adopt Official Logo in Image of Rev.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
“It is an honor for King County to be associated with
the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Adopting his image as
our county’s logo will provide a daily reminder of his challenge
that we as a nation must continue to strive to live up to our ideals.”
Janaury 26, 2007
Constantine
Thanks the City of Seattle for Contributing to Mobility Projects
in the Region
“The City of Seattle’s less expensive hybrid tunnel
proposal allowed critical funds to be redirected to where they are
needed most. These are projects that will help automobiles, freight,
and transit move in and around Seattle during the time the viaduct
is closed and in the future.
Janaury
22, 2007
County
Council Approves Revised Northgate Park and Ride Package
“This ensures implementation of the Council’s plan to
create an urban center with easy transit connections to destinations
throughout the region. Concentrating parking in this centralized
location also opens the door to a new community park on the former
Northgate Park and Ride lot.”
January 16, 2007
Council
Adopts New King County Flood Hazard Management Plan
“Climate change and continued loss of forest cover will impact
our region’s water resources. A principal concern for King
County is the potential for these human impacts to increase flooding.
Updating the County’s flood plan is an important step in our
continuing efforts to anticipate and mitigate these expected challenges.”
January 8, 2007
King
County Council to Engage Citizens on Budget Priorities and Performance
of Government
“As chair of the 2007 budget process, I made
sure to include funding to expand public participation in setting
budget priorities.What King County citizens say at these meetings
will help us to build on the Council-approved ‘Priorities
for People.’”
January 8, 2007
County
Council Town Hall Meeting to Examine Readiness for Future Winter
Wind and Rain Storms
“West Seattle, Vashon and Maury Islands, and nearby suburban
cities were especially hard hit by the storm, with hundreds of fallen
trees, long-lasting power outages, and significant flooding. Other
Councilmembers’ districts suffered similar damage. This meeting
is an opportunity to thoroughly review the lessons learned and propose
the changes this region needs to be better prepared in the future.”
January 5, 2007
County
Council Comes to West Seattle for Evening Town Hall Meeting on Storm
Response
“We hope this meeting can serve not just as an opportunity
to vent about storm-related problems, but as a thorough review of
lessons learned and a catalyst for changes this region can make
to be better prepared in the future.”
December
22, 2006
Constantine
Calls for King County Review of Storm Response
“It’s important that utility officials, government representatives,
emergency preparedness experts, and the public get a chance to discuss
what was done well in reaction to this storm, what failings there
were in the system, and what we can learn from both.”
December 12, 2006
Guardian
One Rescue Hoist is Funded
“Recent events proved that a hoist can be critical in life-threatening
situations. This investment supports our focus on public health
and safety.”
December 11, 2006
Council
Reauthorizes Legislation that Helps White Center and Boulevard Park
Fight Street Crimes
“Two years ago, Deputy Steve Cox led a group of White Center
and Boulevard Park residents in requesting the creation of these
emphasis areas. Their judgment has proven correct—this legislation
has been a significant tool for fighting street crime.”
December
11, 2006
Council
Renews King Conservation District Assessment for Natural Resource
Protection and Salmon Recovery
“Restoring habitat for Chinook salmon benefits all
citizens of King County.This assessment is an important step in
fulfilling our region’s salmon recovery obligations.”
December 4, 2006
Council
Calls for an End to Violence in Darfur
“We represent many King County residents who have relocated
to this country to escape war and oppression, so we have a special
responsibility to speak out against injustice wherever it occurs.”
December 2, 2006
Councilmember
Dow Constantine’s Statement on the Death of King County Sheriff
Deputy Steve Cox
“The King County family is deeply saddened
by the tragic death of Deputy Steve Cox. He grew up in White Center,
then returned to contribute to his community as both a respected
law enforcement officer and an active citizen leader. I offer my
sincere condolences to his family, his many friends, and the people
of White Center whom he faithfully served.”
November 20, 2006
Council
Adopts 2007 Budget That Spends Less, Saves More, Sticks to Priorities
“Citizens expect fiscal integrity and accountability in the
use of their tax dollars. This budget meets that demand by spending
less, saving more, and sticking to established priorities. It cuts
some major expenditures proposed by the executive and places those
dollars in reserve. This keeps the pressure on to lower costs while
ensuring money is available to meet our goals.”
November 17, 2006
2007
Budget Provides Start-up Funding for Children’s Health Initiative,
Calls for Countywide Strategy
“Linking uninsured children with health coverage
is consistent with the County’s ‘Priorities for People’
that serve as our yardstick for budgeting.”
November 17, 2006
2007
Council Budget Identifies Funds for Public Health Centers; Calls
for Countywide Strategy and Expert Panel
“The County’s ‘Priorities for People’ call
for protecting public health by promoting conditions for optimal
physical and mental health. Our Operational Master Plan and expert
panel will recommend whether the best way to provide safety net
services is through public health centers, contracting with private
providers close to the communities, or some other means.”
November 14, 2006
2007
Budget Enhances Bus Riding Experience with “Next Stop”
Readerboards, More Bus Shelters, No Bus Wraps over Windows
“The County’s ‘Priorities for People’
that are guiding our budget deliberations call for excellence in
customer service and improved mobility for people. We’ve heard
from bus riders that they want dry locations to wait for their bus
and clear windows so they can see out on dark days.”
November 13, 2006
Council
Creates Expert Panel to Review County’s Financial Policies
“The Council has a long record of responsible stewardship
of the public's money. Our sound financial policies have led the
major credit rating agencies to award King County triple-A bond
ratings—the highest possible. But these financial and debt
policies have not been formally reviewed since 2000. This expert
review panel will provide the advice we need to meet and exceed
the public’s expectations for fiscal integrity and accountability.”
November 9, 2006
2007
Budget to Include Independent Office to Oversee Major Capital Projects
“‘Earning Public Trust’ is a major theme
of ‘Priorities For People,’ the framework the Council
set for the 2007 budget process. By ramping up our oversight of
large capital projects we can ensure King County taxpayers get the
maximum return on their investment of public funds.”
November
8, 2006
Statement
from Councilmember Dow Constantine on Voter Rejection of Initiative
933
“ Recent revelations about Puget Sound’s
failing health make it clear that balanced land use planning, sensible
rules, and public education are our most important tools in protecting
our fish, farms, and forests.”
November 8, 2006
Statement
from Councilmember Dow Constantine on the Passage of “Transit
Now”
“King County voters have given us the green light—now
we will expand and improve Metro bus service across King County.
The approval of ‘Transit Now’ is a key step in providing
people with affordable and reliable alternatives to automobile travel.”
October 30, 2006
Council
Approves Innovative Plan to Complete Harborview Project
“We were handed a problem and now have a solution: one
that protects taxpayers, expedites construction, and fulfills the
promises King County made to voters when they approved the Harborview
bond issue.”
October 30, 2006
Council:
County Should Pay Cost of Additional Postage for Ballots Over One
Ounce
“We want to assure King County voters that when
they put their absentee ballot in the mail it will be delivered
and counted. We also hope to institute long-term policies to ensure
that any ballot can be returned using just a single stamp.”
October 18, 2006
PRIORITIES
FOR PEOPLE: King County Council to Host Public Hearing on 2007 King
County Budget
“As we begin to review the budget proposal, our focus will
be on answering three questions: Will it help us continue to earn
the public’s trust? Does it enhance the quality of life of
the people of King County? Will it continue protecting the health
of county residents while keeping them safe?”
October 16, 2006
PRIORITIES
FOR PEOPLE Guide King County Council’s Review of Executive
Proposed Budget
“This Council is committed, as a top priority, to providing
the infrastructure for the next generation of King County residents.
At the same time, our priorities speak to the need for services
for people who live here right now, such as protecting public health
and safety. We will look closely at how the Executive’s proposal
meets those needs.”
October 16, 2006
Unexpected
Revenues to Benefit Arts and Cultural Programs in King County
“Arts, culture and heritage programs enable talented local
artists to create new works, bring together communities around shared
cultural experiences, and keep the past alive for present and future
generations. 4Culture has an exemplary record of funding neighborhood
and regional organizations to the great benefit of the people of
King County.”
October 16, 2006
Council
Approves Plans for Chinook Salmon Recovery
“The iconic Puget Sound Chinook salmon is the first listed
threatened species with a largely urban habitat. This pioneering
recovery effort can provide a template for future habitat restoration
projects across the country.”
October 9, 2006
PRIORITIES
FOR PEOPLE: King County Council Sets Yardstick for Measuring 2007
Budget
“Our primary responsibility is to maintain the financial
integrity of county government. We do this by setting priorities,
funding programs consistent with those priorities, and measuring
the results.”
October 9, 2006
Council
Approves Transparent and Independent Civilian Oversight of King
County Sheriff’s Office
“This legislation ensures that citizen complaints
against law enforcement officers will be investigated thoroughly
and publicly. It will also allow for two-way communication between
the Sheriff’s Office and the public on disciplinary policies
and procedures.”
October 9, 2006
Council
Adopts Aggressive Commitments to Reduce King County Greenhouse Gas
Emissions
“These commitments are common-sense measures that can have
a lasting, positive impact on our region and world.”
October 9, 2006
Council
Seeks Analysis of Potential Financial Impact of I-933
“Both supporters and opponents of this measure have stated
what they think I-933 could cost taxpayers. What we need is a clear,
independent analysis of the potential financial impacts on King
County.”
October 2, 2006
Council
Expands Opportunities for Home Businesses In Comprehensive Plan
Update
“The growth of landscaping and contracting companies
as well as the increase in the number of people operating mail-order
and online businesses means adjusting the Comprehensive Plan to
accommodate a new aspect of the rural economy.”
September 21, 2006
County
Council Honors Highline Leader Judy Duff
“We can all agree that there was no more passionate advocate
for her causes and her community.”
September 5, 2006
Council
Approves Placing Vashon PUD Proposal on November Ballot
“This measure gives island voters the opportunity to make
a key decision regarding the formation of a Vashon Public Utilities
District.”
July 25, 2006
Councilmembers
Introduce Aggressive Commitments to Reduce King County Greenhouse
Gas Emissions
“Two decades ago, climate change seemed like an obscure scientific
concept. Today, its impacts are right in front of us – look
no further than the record-breaking summer heat, last winter’s
heavy rains and news stories about retreating glaciers and displaced
wildlife.”
July 24, 2006
Council
Calls for Action Plan for Treatment of Chronic Mental Illness, Chemical
Dependency
“The King County Jail must focus on locking up dangerous
offenders, not on housing those who pose a greater threat to themselves
than others. We must stop the revolving door at the jail by diverting
these individuals, and the enormous sums used to incarcerate them,
into programs that help restore them as full members of the community."
July 24, 2006
Council
Addresses Global Warming by Approving Membership in Chicago Climate
Exchange
“By joining the Chicago Climate Exchange we gain both a structure
for measuring King County’s progress and financial benefits
from our efforts to combat global warming. This is a forum where
we can provide leadership to other local governments across the
country.”
July 17, 2006
Council
Takes a “Bird’s-Eye View” on Managing Growth
“Our forests, farms, waterways and vibrant cities and towns
will continue to attract new residents to this region. It’s
up to us to ensure that growth does not destroy the very qualities
that make this a desirable place to live.”
July 10, 2006
Council
Sends Levy for Automated Fingerprint Identification System to September
Ballot
“King County was able to continue the five-year
AFIS levy for a sixth year without additional collections because
of prudent management and is now proposing a new levy at a lower
rate.We’ve shown taxpayers they are getting their money’s
worth from this nationally-recognized program.”
June 29, 2006
More
Passenger Ferries Coming to Puget Sound?
The Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) today approved
a comprehensive study to explore options for expanding passenger
ferry service across the Puget Sound.
June 22, 2006
Water
Taxi Transports Stranded Commuters After Fatal Accident Closes West
Seattle Bridge
“This unprecedented one-day ridership
demonstrates the water taxi’s importance as an emergency transportation
safety valve for the West Seattle peninsula.”
June 19, 2006
Council
Adopts All-Mail Voting for King County
“Thirty-four of 39 Washington counties have already moved
to vote-by-mail, and the vast majority of King County’s voters
already use mail ballots. This legislation responds to this larger
trend, while maintaining opportunities for in-person voting.”
June 19, 2006
Council
Adopts 2007 Sewer Rate At Level Lower Than Proposed
“Thanks to the Executive’s successful wastewater
bond sale and further efficiencies identified by the Council, we
are able to reduce the size of the rate increase. We know ratepayers
want reliable wastewater services at the best price possible.”
June 6, 2006
County
Council Honors K2 Founder
The Metropolitan King County Council posthumously honored H. William
Kirschner for his business and civic contributions to King County
and the Vashon Island community at the Council's June 5 meeting.
June 5, 2006
Constantine
Staffer Cleared in Ethics Complaint Filed by Mining Company
“These findings support what I have said all along—that
this complaint is an unfair personal attack on my staff by Glacier
Northwest and their agents.”
May 22, 2006
Councilmembers
Praise Executive’s Call for Child Health Coverage and for
Focus on Global Warming
“No child in our community should suffer without proper health
care because of parents' inability to pay. The Executive has proposed
a bold initiative to address a grave injustice. Whether we can find
sustainable funding for this morally compelling proposition is the
main issue the Council must now address.”
May 22, 2006
Council
Approves Motion on “Comprehensive and Effective” Immigration
Reform
“We heard testimony from a number of undocumented
immigrants who are hard working, tax-paying residents of King County.
It would be good not only for them, but for the community as a whole,
that they be provided a clear path to legal residence and citizenship.”
May 8, 2006
Council
Approves Technology Access Foundation Lease
Since TAF began its programs in 1997, every participant who has
reached the senior year of high school has graduated and been admitted
to college. The programs offered in this new building will not only
aid local young people with their current school work, it will help
them to succeed in higher education and in life.”
May 1, 2006
A
Time for Action: Councilmembers Introduce Resolution Urging Congress
to Act on Immigration Reform
“We
need immigration reform that gives workers a clear path to citizenship,
while eliminating exploitation by unscrupulous employers.”
April 28, 2006
The
Boat Is Back: Elliott Bay Water Taxi Returns
“The Water Taxi provides a vital link between West Seattle
and the downtown waterfront for commuters and visitors alike.”
April 3, 2006
“Boxed
In” Council Approves Funding for Harborview Costs Overruns
“I am disappointed that, far from providing the value
we were promised, the contract led to a $15 million increase in
costs on a project critical to our region’s trauma care center.”
April 3, 2006
County
Council Honors Bob Santos
“He is an old-fashioned community organizer, with
a willingness to wield a picket sign when necessary.”
March 27, 2006
Council
Strengthens Civil Rights Protections
“The County Council can't eliminate bigotry; that
is a matter for the individual human mind and heart. But we can
and will ban discrimination.”
March 27, 2006
Gossett,
Constantine to Host Beacon Hill Open House
“The open house is my chance to introduce myself to the community,
find out about the challenges they face, and discuss how Councilmember
Gossett and I will work together to address those challenges.”
March 20, 2006
Council
Hears From Supporters of Civil Rights Ordinance
“After three decades, the state of Washington acted
to protect the rights of sexual minorities. The public today asked
us not to take three decades to say that there is no room for inequality
in King County.”
February 27, 2006
From
Crown to King: Council approves image of Dr. Martin Luther King,
Jr. as the new official logo of King County
An overflow crowd of more than 275 filled the council chambers and
lobbies as the Metropolitan King County Council today approved an
ordinance to replace the crown that has been the logo of King County
for 38 years with an image of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
the county’s namesake.
January
23, 2006
Constantine
to serve on Sound Transit Board
“I am very pleased to be joining the Sound Transit Board.
My district includes large portions of the Link Light Rail alignment
and I am eager to provide representation to the communities along
the line.”
January 14, 2006
Voice
of Vashon to be Heard on Cable TV
“By
streaming Voice of Vashon’s internet signal over government access
cable television, we strengthen the voice of the community.”
January 13, 2006
Transportation
Roundtable Highlights First Town Hall of 2006
“With the defeat of Initiative 912, voters in King
County and across the state have told us to get moving on our transportation
future. We must take advantage of this opportunity.”
December 7, 2005
Budget
Committee Approves $5.9 Million for Pandemic Flu Preparedness
“We must be prepared for the unprecedented impact of a pandemic
flu outbreak on our health care delivery system.”
November 21, 2005
Council Unanimously
Adopts Balanced 2006 Budget That Continues Fiscal Responsibility,
Renews Commitment to Regional Human Services
“We have preserved our regional trails and open spaces
while transferring former county park properties to our region’s
new cities. We have instituted reforms to reduce the county jail
population, while ensuring that public safety is protected. King
County’s prudent financial management was recently recognized through
the awarding of AAA bond ratings by all three major credit agencies.”
November 14, 2005
Council Approval of County-City Trolley Barn Plan “Opens View of Olympics for Decades to Come”
“This vote finally and officially preserves the Waterfront
Trolley as a permanent part of the downtown cityscape.”
October 18, 2005
County Council Approves ‘Maury 40’ Agreement
“King County and the state DNR have created an excellent compromise that
protects our water supply and benefits our open space resources on the islands.”
October 17, 2005
Council Ready to See if Fiscal Policies, Tough Choices, Have Closed Spending Gap
“This budget and the positive news that we received from the Executive
is a reflection of the hard work done by both the Legislative and Executive branches
over the last four years.”
September 12, 2005
Council Places Veterans and Human Services Levy on November Ballot
“We’ve given ourselves a tough task—to engage the public in
a discussion of our human services needs before the November election and to
persuade King County residents to vote yes. But this compromise avoids dividing
people with significant social service needs against one another and helps the
Council to move forward, united, in support of a single ballot measure.”
September 7, 2005
Human Service Levy Introduced by Budget Leadership Team
“Rather than splitting the human services community, we propose that all
work together to successfully solve the problems of poverty and homelessness.”
September 6, 2005
Council Motion Encourages Sending County Emergency Management Teams to Assist Hurricane Survivors
“The assistance of these King County workers will be invaluable. Sending them will also provide the team with first-hand experience in working in a disaster zone—something
that will be useful if they are called on to handle a major emergency
here at home.”
August 31, 2005
Overwhelming Crowd Turns out to Oppose Special Levy
"Providing critical human services to the neediest in our community is a pillar of a civilized society. Veterans of foreign wars have special needs, and have earned the right to extraordinary care from their fellow citizens. Those services should be funded immediately. But today’s testimony shows that the current proposal—which excludes thousands of citizens who desperately need help—is deeply troubling to many in our community.”
August 22, 2005
County Council Honors Professor David Olson
“Professor Olson took advantage of every opportunity to teach people about the importance of government and political participation in their lives—inside and outside the classroom.”
August 19, 2005
Waterborne Transit Study: Water Taxi at Head of Class
“The study results confirm that waterborne transit options have value as one element of our public transportation toolbox.The numbers also show that the Water Taxi’s West Seattle-to-downtown route was a well-chosen pilot program to gauge the appeal of waterborne transit in this region.”
August 16, 2005
Constantine Joins Canvassing Board
“I look forward to helping provide our citizens with prompt, accurate election results. Election integrity is indispensable to our democracy and I am honored to participate in this process.”
August 15, 2005
Council Congratulates Young People Steering Peers from Drugs
“The most powerful and convincing arguments that young people should avoid drugs come from their peers. A great deal of effort and creativity went into these posters, but I’m most impressed with these young artists’ sincere desire to serve their community.”
August 15, 2005
Council Honors “Uncredited” Heroes of WWII
“Ironically, these loyal soldiers didn’t get the credit they deserved after the war because their work was so important that it was considered classified information. On the 60th anniversary of the end of the war in the Pacific, we want to honor their work and thank them for their service to their country.”
July 25, 2005
Council Adopts 2005 Update to the King County Comprehensive Plan; Amendments Encourage White Center Redevelopment, Accommodate Vashon Affordable Housing
Encouraging private redevelopment in conjunction with White Center's Greenbridge project and relaxing development regulations on several key Vashon Island properties were among the major provisions of a package of Comprehensive Plan amendments approved today by the King County Council.
July 25, 2005
Council Supports Expansion Of Rural Assistance Program;
Free Technical Assistance Program To Be Extended To Rural Residents of Northeast and Southeast King County
The King County Council today expressed support for the continuation and expansion of a pilot program to provide rural residents with free assistance in developing Rural Stewardship Plans and Forest Stewardship Plans.
June 27, 2005
Council Authorizes $6.85 Million Loan For Greenbridge
Money Will Fund Infrastructure For Mixed-Income Development in White Center
The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously authorized the county executive to contract for a $6.85 million loan to help fund Greenbridge, a mixed-income community to be developed on the site of the former Park Lake Homes public housing complex in White Center.
June 17, 2005
County Looks at New Ways to Use Sheriff’s Helicopters
“The oil spill last year in Dalco Passage was a wake-up call. State agencies lack the ability to quickly assess such a situation in order to protect valuable shorelines, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions. Using the Sheriff's helicopter will allow us to determine where and how quickly a spill is moving in order to inform the responsible state agencies.”
June 7, 2005
Growth
Management Hearings Board Supports King County’s Land Use
Planning
The May 31 decision rejects an appeal filed by the
Seattle-King County Association of Realtors. The Association had
challenged the adequacy of both the county’s 2004 Comprehensive
Plan Update and the 2002 Buildable Lands Report, upon which the
plan was based.
May 20, 2005
Elliott Bay Water Taxi Season Off to Great Start
In its first week of service, ridership on the “MV Sightseer” was up 33 percent over last year’s first-week numbers.
May 2, 2005
County Council Honors State Champion Chief Sealth Girls’ Basketball Team
The Metropolitan King County Council today recognized the Chief Sealth High School girls’ basketball team, congratulating the West Seattle squad for their March 5 victory over River Ridge in the state 3A state title game.
April 29, 2005
Interns to take North Highline Governance Survey Door-to-Door in Early May
“This study is being done at the request of North Highline residents for the use of North Highline residents in determining their shared future.”
April 26, 2005
Sunday Celebration Kicks Off Water Taxi Service
Seattle’s most dependable indicator of summer — the initial run of the Elliott Bay Water Taxi — will be celebrated with a kick-off event on Sunday, May 1, from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.
April 25, 2005
Constantine: Citizens Have Right to Safety in Court Facilities
“Whether you're in the state's biggest jurisdiction or whether you're in a county courthouse in a county of 3,000 people, you are entitled to be safe.”
April 18, 2005
Council Approves Legislation to Enhance Emergency Management Planning on Vashon and Maury Islands
“This interlocal agreement is the result of islanders taking charge of their ability to communicate, coordinate, and assist each other in the case of a catastrophic event.”
April 12, 2005
Constantine Meets with Arts Groups on District Eight Arts Day
Representatives of 25 arts, culture and heritage organizations joined King County Councilmember Dow Constantine in an April 8 forum on the arts in Council District Eight.
April
4, 2005
Councilmembers
Call for Independent Audit of Elections Division
“We have made tremendous strides in the Elections Division in the past few years, but we must acknowledge that more can be done. An independent audit will confirm the improvements while showing where work still needs to be done to make the elections process as error-proof as humanly possible.”
March 14, 2005
Council Approves Legislation Increasing Participation in Open Space Program
“During last year's deliberations on new stream and wetland buffers, we heard a strong message: that the county needs to provide more incentives, and to provide easier access to those incentives. We are expanding an already successful program, making more people eligible to receive tax breaks.”
February 5, 2005
King County, state DNR join Vashon community to celebrate conservation of 237 acres of open space
A unique collaboration involving King County, Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and half a dozen Vashon and Maury Island community groups has resulted in the conservation of 237 acres of forestland as open space.
February 1, 2005
King County efforts to protect water quality recognized
Constantine and Sims Accept Award for Habitat Recovery
King County Executive Ron Sims and Councilmember Dow Constantine recently accepted an award honoring the county’s regulatory efforts to protect and restore salmon runs.
December 13, 2004
King
County receives support for environment and transportation
"This bill reflects the environmental leadership of our Federal
delegation. Their commitment to protecting Puget Sound and to salmon
recovery is clearly reflected in the work they have done to secure
federal funding for critical projects."
November 24, 2004
Patterson
and Constantine Secure Funding for Highline Historical Society
“This museum will be a state-of-the art regional facility
and will be available to serve the 24,000 students in the Highline
School District, as well as the greater community.”
November 22, 2004
Council
Unanimously Adopts 2005 Budget that Finds Savings and Efficiencies
The Metropolitan King County Council gave its unanimous approval
today to a $3.4 billion 2005 King County Budget that tightens oversight
and controls on spending and seeks out savings and efficiencies
so that the county can continue to offer essential services with
no new general taxes. It includes $538.8 million in the general
fund, which supports mandatory funding for criminal justice agencies,
the costs of general government, and discretionary funding for human
service programs. The final 13-0 vote marks the second straight
year that the King County budget was adopted on a unanimous vote.
November 22, 2004
Incentives
and Free Assistance for Unincorporated Area Property Owners Secured
in 2005 Budget
“This budget provides assurance that the King County Council will remain accountable for not only the standards it adopted, but the manner in which they are carried out. I am very pleased that this budget enhances incentives for property owners, monitors permit efficiency and customer service, and provides free assistance to help property owners apply the new Critical Areas standards and take advantage of property tax breaks.”
November 22, 2004
Constantine Secures Funds to Protect Judd Creed Headwaters
“I am pleased that the County Council has approved this funding to preserve Meadowlake and provide additional protection for the Judd Creek watershed. For the past three years I have worked closely with the Vashon-Maury Island Land Trust on this project and I appreciate their dedication to conserving valuable ecological lands on the islands.”
November 22, 2004
Constantine Secures Funds for North Highline Work Crew
“The work crew has been a terrific success for White Center and Boulevard Park. Business owners, community activists, and local residents are all enthusiastic about the difference the work crew has made in improving our communities.”
November 22, 2004
Constantine Secures Funds for White Center Sidewalk Project
“The White Center Chamber of Commerce, White Center Community Development Association, and local business owners have told me that improved sidewalks in this area are a top priority. I am pleased that the King County Council recognized the importance of this investment in the White Center community and I look forward to the construction of this needed project.”
November 22, 2004
Constantine Says County Budget Ensures Return of Water Taxi
King County Councilmember Dow Constantine announced today that the 2005 King County Budget, adopted unanimously by the Council, includes funding for operation of the Elliott Bay Water Taxi for the 2005 season. The popular water taxi will run from April 15 to September 30, 2005.
November
18, 2004
Council
Budget Proposal Finds Savings and Efficiencies to Maintain Funding
for County Services
“With Public Health facing declining revenues, and with historic partners pulling back, our Striker directs the development of an operational master plan for this Department to ensure it is well positioned for the future. The Public Health budget in 2005 is $184 million, with the County’s general fund contributing $17 million. Public Health is the biggest County responsibility that has not yet been reviewed and refocused as the County continues reinventing the way it does business. I am pleased that this operational master plan will provide an opportunity for that review and analysis.”
Novermber 10, 2004
County Residents Take Advantage of On-Line Payment System
“The County Council has focused in recent years on measures that will both reduce costs and improve service to county residents, and the eCommerce program is directly in line with these goals. I am pleased we are taking steps that will lead us toward greater fiscal stability and better customer service.”
November 8, 2004
Council
Moves to Make Critical Areas Standards Accountable, Accessible and
Easy to Use
“While many property owners told us they want to be responsible stewards of their land, they need accountability from the government to prevent unintended consequences, improved incentives and technical assistance, and assurance that everyone is doing their part to protect natural resources. These motions declare our intent to implement the Critical Areas standards in a way that works for people and the environment.”
November 8, 2004
Council
Helps Residents “Take Back Their Neighborhoods” from
Street Crime
“Our goal is to protect those men, women and children who call these diverse communities home, and deter those who would treat these neighborhoods as convenient marketplaces for illegal trade.”
November 4, 2004
King County to Explore All Legal Options for Upholding Its Denial of Permits for Barging Facility on Maury Island
"If we are serious about restoring our salmon and protecting our orcas, then the County’s decision to deny these shoreline permits must stand."
October 25, 2004
Accountability, Efficiency and Ease of Use Added to Critical Areas Package
“For generations to come, this legislation will help prevent flooding and erosion and protect our drinking water, streams and wetlands from being degraded by new development. In critical areas, small land-use changes can have big impacts. By protecting them we help prevent the suburbanization of our rural areas and protect the right of generations of King County citizens to choose a rural way of life.”
Ocotber 20, 2004
Sims unveils growth report; Progress made on 21st century vision for growth
“The ten year update to the King County Comprehensive Plan, which the King County Council passed in September, reinforced the county’s commitment to focusing growth in our urban corridors while protecting farms, forests and rural lands,” said Councilmember Dow Constantine, Chair of the Growth Management and Unincorporated Areas Committee. “The Benchmark Report being released today shows that our efforts to date have been successful, and is a boost to those of us who want to keep the commitment to manage growth.”
October 11, 2004
Council’s Budget Initiatives Appear to Have Helped Reduce County’s Structural Gap
Shortly after hearing the 2005 King County Budget proposal delivered by County Executive Ron Sims, leaders of the King County Council’s budget review team credited several of the Council’s past initiatives for helping contain costs and close the structural gap between revenues and expenditures in the County’s General Fund.
September 28, 2004
Constantine, Phillips Applaud Senator Murray for Securing Funding for Maury Island Conservation Initiative
Metropolitan King County Councilmember Dow Constantine and Council Chair Larry Phillips hailed today’s announcement by Senator Patty Murray of an additional $2 million in federal funds for preservation of critical habitat on Maury Island.
September 27, 2004
Council approves Comprehensive Plan Update that Protects Character of Rural Areas, Working Farms, and Forests
The Council late Monday night formally adopted its 2004 Update to the King County Comprehensive Plan, the guiding policy document for all land use and development regulations in unincorporated King County, and for regional services throughout the County including transit, sewers, parks, trails and open space.
September 16, 2004
Constantine Proposes More Flexibility for Regulations Protecting Critical Areas in King County
After six months of extensive public comment and careful study, the Chair of the King County Council’s Growth Management and Unincorporated Areas Committee today offered amendments to proposed rural land-use regulations designed to protect critical areas. The Chair’s proposals would moderate forest clearing limits on small- and mid-sized parcels, eliminate a strict “ten percent” water runoff rule in favor of best management practices, and offer site-specific flexibility in the width of wetland buffers.
August 12, 2004
County helps obtain $2.8 million no-interest loan for Vashon wastewater treatment facilities
"This loan is one of several efforts by the county to reduce the financial burden on citizens in Beulah Park/Cove and Bunker Trail due to the cost of new wastewater facilities."
July 20, 2004
Proposed Amendments to Comprehensive Plan Update Protect Character of Rural Areas, Working Farms, and Forests
“Sprawling development of rural forest and farmland pollutes streams and lakes, destroys wildlife habitat and increases traffic. As our population continues to grow, our rural character and open spaces will not survive on their own; we must work to protect them. The Comprehensive Plan encourages growth in the already-urbanized areas while protecting our rural legacy.”
July 2, 2004
Statement of Councilmember Dow Constantine on the passing of R.R. "Bob" Greive
"A West Seattle kid from birth and an honored member of our West Seattle High School Alumni Association, Bob was a towering figure in our local politics. His legacy casts a long shadow from California Avenue SW across the entire State of Washington."
July 1, 2004
County to update discrimination laws
"I am honored to co-sponsor this ordinance, which will bring us one step closer to full civil rights for all residents of King County. I believe that full equality for sexual minorities is this generation's contribution to the long history of America perfecting itself – of America struggling to live up to its promise and the ideals upon which it was founded. I am particularly glad that we are finally opening our courts to sexual minorities who are discriminated against; our system of justice and our community will be all the stronger for it."
May 3, 2004
Council Receives Final Report of Elections Oversight Committee
“It’s virtually impossible to be at 100 percent with the elections process. But it’s important to public perception of the system how you handle the inevitable mistakes. You have to be able to say if there was an error what is being done to correct it and the corrections must be done in as open and transparent a way as possible.”
April 29, 2004
Constantine, West Seattle Residents Celebrate Return of Water Taxi Service
“Whether heading to work, going to a Mariners game, or just taking in the sights on a stress-free trip across Elliott Bay, the Water Taxi is a tremendous addition to our transportation system and a benefit to residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
March 19, 2004
Constantine Applauds DDES-Glacier Northwest Permit Denial
“King County DDES, through this decision, has shown leadership in ensuring that ‘Extinction is not an option.’ I am very pleased that King County made the decision to deny the multinational corporation’s application for a shoreline substantial development permit, as well as denying its application for a shoreline conditional use permit.”
February 20, 2004
Dow South County celebrates federal funds to help salmon in Green/Duwamish River
Juvenile salmon will have a safe place to feed and grow as they migrate down the Green/Duwamish River thanks to federal money for a key salmon recovery project. The mayors of Tukwila and Kent were among the dozens of community and elected leaders from south King County and Tacoma who Thursday celebrated the successful work of Senator Patty Murray and Congressman Norm Dicks in securing $500,000 to begin the Green/Duwamish Ecosystem Restoration Project.
January 20, 2004
Dow Constantine New Chair of King County Council’s Growth Management Committee
Metropolitan King County Councilmember Dow Constantine was appointed today as the new chair of the Council’s Growth Management and Unincorporated Areas Committee.
January 20, 2004
"Viaduct, 520 bridge state responsibility"--Seattle PI OpEd by Councilmembers Dwight Pelz and Dow Constantine
"If we raise local taxes to build state highways, then Olympia could dodge its responsibility to the Central Puget Sound region. Local sales taxes would pay for state highways in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties while our gas taxes would pay for state roads in the other 36 counties.
Jail Study Identifies Potential Savings in Operating Costs
Council
to Inspect Ballot Facility, Vote on Elections Management
Auditor Collaboration Seeks Savings for Both County, Seattle
Council budget proposal restores some human services,
trims 2003 jail spending by $6.1 million
County Council Opens County Buildings to Shelter Homeless
Council Acts to Restore Downtown Winter Shelter Program
Council moves to reduce noise at Boeing Field
Adopts study recommendations, asks for Federal funds to implement
I-NET
Study Shows Satisfied Customers
Constantine Says Water Taxi Will Return
Arts, Cultural Programs Receive Funding Boost from Council
Constantine Applauds DDES-Glacier Northwest Permit Decision
Constantine Calls for Implementing Performance-based Governance in King County
Newsletter
Kiwanis Club of White Center
Council Approves Shinglemill Creek Land Purchase
Constantine Praises Islanders for Heavy Lifting on Preservation Project
Council Approves 2002 County Audit Work Program
Plan to review RJC & Downtown jail operations
Constantine Joins County Council
Former Senator to Chair Labor, Operations
and Technology Committee
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