December, 2007
In this newsletter:
• Storm Update
• Budget Update
• Children and Family Commission
Dear District 3 residents,
The past week’s snow, rain and wind storms and the subsequent flooding have once again activated the emergency response and preparedness of King County government and residents. Below, you will find more information to assist you with recovery efforts from this series of storms. The severe winter weather serves as a timely reminder about the importance of being prepared for any emergency or disaster. (Do you have your flashlights and batteries handy?)
Storm Update
King County is requesting that residents of King County who suffered wind and/or flood-related losses to their primary home from the morning of Dec. 2 onward report their damages and estimated personal property losses. The King County Office of Emergency Management has established a Citizen Damage Reporting web site for all residents of geographic King County to report their losses. Residents should report disaster damage online at www.kingcounty.gov/prepare. Residents are encouraged to report online, however a toll-free hotline number is available for residents who cannot report damages online: 1-800-523-5044.
This information is being collected in order to assist the Washington State Emergency Management Division in requesting federal assistance because of this disaster. It may be several weeks before a determination is made by officials as to what disaster relief programs may be available. This reporting of damages is to establish if King County is eligible for relief. Should a federal declaration be announced for this weather event, additional information will be provided on how property owners are to file claims with FEMA.
On Monday, the King County Council voted to waive disposal fees for flood debris at county transfer stations for a period of four days. Between Dec. 13 and 16, you can take flood debris to any King County transfer station for free disposal, with proof of address. For more information, contact the Solid Waste Division at (206) 296-4466, or visit www.metrokc.gov/dnrp/swd/.
Budget Update
On Nov. 19, the King County Council adopted a $4.9 billion budget that responds to the priorities voiced by citizens earlier this year to ensure public trust, enhance quality of life, and protect public health and safety. The budget stays within the property tax limits of Initiative 747! (despite the recent invalidation of the measure by the state Supreme Court). This budget improves public safety, the primary responsibility of local government. Additional funding for the King County Sheriff’s Office aims to implement the critical recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Panel to improve oversight and training. We need to have adequate resources for maintaining deputy response times in the unincorporated areas of King County. The budget also funds the restoration of the Sheriff’s anti-gang unit!
Also, funding for the Flood Control Zone District will allow us to be proactive in reducing our flooding problems. The flood district aims to complete nearly $335 million in capital projects over the course of ten years, including many investments in the Snoqualmie Valley.
The budget also sets aside $15 million in sales tax revenue in a “rainy day” reserve fund. Just like a responsible family budget, King County’s financial plan puts aside assets to stabilize funding so we can be prepared when we come upon times of great need. Maintaining and building reserve resources is an important piece of emergency preparedness that will protect King County residents in case of a disaster or another emergency.
Children and Families Commission
The King County Children and Family Commission seeks volunteers who would like to serve on the commission. The advisory board is particularly interested in adding representatives from the rural areas of King County. This citizen-based commission works in partnership with families, youth, schools, businesses, private funders, service providers and government to build and sustain a healthy community. Through education, advocacy, partnering and funding, the commission aims to ensure all children and youth grow in healthy families to become confident, competent and caring individuals. Commissioners are appointed to serve for a three-year term. For more information about the commission, please visit www.metrokc.gov/health/cfc. If you are interested in serving in this important community role, please contact me for an application.
Best wishes for this holiday season.
Sincerely,
Kathy Lambert
District 3
(206) 296-1003