February 2008
In this newsletter:
• Committee assignments for 2008
• Landmarks award
• Van donations
• Chinook Building update
• Civil Rights Commission opening
• Conservation Futures Oversight Committee openings
• Native plant salvage
• Emergency preparedness for pets
Dear District 3 residents,
This year is already a busy one, and I look forward to working on many interesting and timely issues. Several long-term important issues are before the King County Council in 2008, including:
• Comprehensive Land Use Plan – four-year update www.metrokc.gov/permits/codes/CompPlan/2008/
• King County Charter – 10-year update www.metrokc.gov/exec/charter/
• Solid Waste Comprehensive Plan Update www.metrokc.gov/dnrp/swd/about/Planning/documents-planning.asp#export
Committee assignments for 2008
The King County Council did its reorganization on Jan. 7. This year, I once again will serve on the Budget leadership team and also as chair of the Law, Justice and Human Services Committee. I also will serve on a number of committees:
• Law, Justice and Human Services Committee – chair
• Operating Budget, Fiscal Management and Select Issues Committee – vice chair
• Regional Transit Committee
• Regional Water Quality Committee
• Employment Committee
• Board of Health – vice chair
• Strategic Advisory Council for Technology
Landmarks award
On Dec. 10, we celebrated our heritage preservation work with a 2007 Landmark Deeds Award for Public Service from the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation. The award recognized leadership on development of the Barn Again program to preserve Washington’s historic barns. The Barn Again program provides technical assistant to barn owners and offers grants for stabilization projects designed to retain these valued structures.
Van donations
Last month, I was delighted to deliver retired Metro Vanpool vans that were donated to two worthy programs - The Si View Metropolitan Parks District recreation program in North Bend, and to the countywide Wilderness Technology Alliance in Seattle.
The Si View Metropolitan Parks District partners with the community to provide recreational programs and to preserve historic Si View Park for the enhancement of quality of life in the Upper Snoqualmie Valley. The Wilderness Technology Alliance is Washington State’s largest non-profit refurbisher of surplus technology, and is dedicated to providing technology equipment to low-income adults, schools and non-profits that otherwise could not afford it.
Chinook Building update
Thanks to all of you who responded to my request for nominations for naming one floor in King County’s new Chinook Building. I am happy to announce that the selected name to represent Council District 3 is Tolt, which reflects the name of the Tolt River in the Snoqualmie Valley, and the historic name of the City of Carnation. Tolt comes from the Native American word “Tolthue,” which means “river of swift waters.”
The other floors are named after famous people. Tolt honors our district and the beauty all around it and something we all enjoy.
Civil Rights Commission opening
Congratulations to Kris Meilahn, who is completing a second term of volunteer service on the King County Civil Rights Commission representing District 3. Kris will be retiring from the commission in June when the term expires, and applications are being accepted for a replacement. Potential candidates should have interest and experience related to the goals of the Civil Rights Commission and be willing and able to commit 8-10 hours monthly to commission meetings and work projects. More information about the commission and how to apply is available at www.metrokc.gov/dias/crc/.
Conservation Futures Oversight Committee openings
King County currently has two vacant positions on the Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee. This committee recommends to the County Council how the Conservation Futures Tax (CFT) should be allocated. CFT funds are available to fund public open space land acquisition throughout King County. This year we estimate that approximately $8 million in CFT funds will be available for distribution. If you have an interest in serving on this committee please contact my office at (206) 296-1003.
Native plant salvage
Volunteers are needed to assist with King County Water and Land Resources Division’s Native Plant Salvage Program. A salvage event is scheduled at Redmond Ridge/Trilogy, beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, March 1. In the morning, volunteers will dig up trees and shrubs from this site scheduled for development. In the afternoon, volunteers can help with potting up the salvaged plants so they can recuperate before going to King County habitat restoration sites. Once replanted, these native plants will help reduce erosion, shade streams and improve habitat. Sign up to participate by contacting Greg Rabourn at (206) 296-1923 or by e-mail at greg.rabourn@kingcounty.gov.
Emergency preparedness for pets
When a disaster inflicts its damage on citizens in our community, our pets are similarly affected. Here are some steps you can take to protect your pets when disaster strikes.
• Have a safe place to take your pet.
• Assemble a portable pet disaster supplies kit or bag.
• Assemble a pet first aid kit.
• Prepare a 24-hour contact list.
• Make sure all dogs and cats are wearing collars and identification.
• If you are away from home when disaster strikes, make arrangements for a trusted neighbor to take your pets and meet you.
• If you must leave animals behind, post a highly visible sign on a window or door letting rescue workers know the number of animals and breed in the house.
More information about how to ensure you pets survive any disaster is available from the Washington State Animal Response Team (WASART) at www.washingtonsart.org.
Happy Valentine’s Day and happy Presidents’ Day to all.
Sincerely,
Kathy Lambert
District 3
(206) 296-1003