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May 31, 2001
Sims honors City of Redmond, Nintendo of America, and Terry Lavender as local Earth Heroes
King County Executive Ron Sims today honored the City of Redmond as a King County Earth City while Nintendo of America and Terry Lavender were recognized as King County Earth Heroes for the month of May. The awards were given during a ceremony at the Redmond City Council Chambers.
Launched in May 2000, the King County Earth Legacy Initiative celebrates the importance of protecting and enhancing our natural environment. The initiative outlines a number of innovative programs that are working hard to maintain the rich integrity of our region, as well as our high quality of life.
“The City of Redmond reminds us of the important role local government plays in ensuring our region is protected for generations to come,” said Executive Sims. “Through responsible and innovative policies and practices, this community has worked to preserve the beauty of this region.”
The Earth City award is given to local jurisdictions that have made a commitment to maintain the integrity of our natural environment through a variety of programs and initiatives. These programs have measurable benefits to the environment and encourage the public’s involvement.
As part of its strategic direction, the City of Redmond is committed to environmental protection and conservation. The strategic directions are comprised of a set of six commitments that define this City’s intention for keeping Redmond “a community of good neighbors.” Through aggressive policies, programs, and regulations, Redmond has implemented recycling, water quality, stream enhancement, and water conservation programs along with key wildlife and open space initiatives-many of which encourage public involvement and engagement.
In 1992, Redmond adopted a Sensitive Areas Ordinance designating and protecting sensitive areas in their jurisdiction. Additionally, over one million dollars has been spent on restoring habitat along the Sammamish River where Chinook and Sockeye populations have already been seen. Currently, the City is working on a Wildlife Habitat Plan to determine and provide wildlife linkages citywide and intra-jurisdictionally.
“Nintendo of America and Terry Lavender both model the kind of leadership and vision that is critical for our region’s environment. Their willingness to implement effective recycling and waste prevention activities and practices into their business is commendable. Terry Lavender has made a significant impact on our quality of life through her passion and commitment to the environment. I am pleased to be honoring them.”
Nintendo of America reminds us that being one of the largest video manufacturers in this County takes responsibility and innovation. Instead of allowing excess waste to accumulate in their factories and offices, aggressive around-the-clock waste prevention and recycling activities have been established. Some of the activities include placing lengthy standards and procedures on-line, posting reports electronically, recycling Nicad batteries, and buying recycled products. As an active member of the King County Green Works Program, Nintendo of America has committed themselves to recycling 40% of its waste, which has added up to a 98% reduction in their waste. Changing the company’s recycling service increased paper-recycling revenues by 900% in one year.
Woodinville resident Terry Lavender has offered thousands of volunteer hours promoting the value and ownership for our natural environment. Having served on numerous boards and oversight committees, Lavender has been a major player in recommending policy and programmatic decisions that have worked to save our salmon, habitat, and local waterways.
Lavender led the community effort in saving Bear Creek by encouraging local residents to participate in King County’s Public Benefits Rating System and conservation easement program. A champion for the environment, Lavender was instrumental in helping to convince key private owners to sell vital wetlands to protect this salmon bearing stream and basin. She currently serves on the Board of the Cascade Land Conservancy, the King County Conservation Futures Citizens Committee, “89 Bond” Citizens Advisory Committee, and numerous others. Additionally, she is involved with the Redmond Chamber of Commerce and Redmond Derby Days.
Updated: May 31, 2001
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