July 14, 2008
Sims named County Leader of the Year by national magazine
Calling the King County Executive's collaborative, holistic approach to problem solving "the genius" in his leadership style, American City & County Magazine today named Ron Sims the County Leader of the Year for 2008. Sims received the prestigious award Monday to a standing ovation at the annual meeting of the annual meeting of the National Association of Counties in Kansas City, Missouri.
In a cover story, the magazine says "County Leader of the Year Ron Sims finds common ground to solve King County, Wash.'s pressing problems," It relates Sims taking innovative approaches to solving local impacts of problems of national importance such as adapting to climate change, reforming health care and reducing traffic congestion to benefit county residents. The article notes that Sims' ability to identify issues and move to successful solutions often makes King County's work a model for other governments.
"Once again, leadership on national issues is found at the local level," said Bill Wolpin, editorial director of American City & County. Sims was nominated by subscribers of the magazine, which has been in publication since 1909 "as the voice of state and local government."
"This award is really about the excellent work of the employees of King County," said Executive Sims. "It also represents the public's support for the work we're doing to ensure the highest quality of life for the people of King County."
The magazine features Sims' work to expand transit service in King County; his public-private partnership to get coverage for uninsured children; the regional Puget Sound Health Alliance; and his local and national leadership on climate change, including a green transit fleet, funding a new flood control program and construction of a reclaimed water system to help reduced effuent going into Puget Sound and to help with future water supply needs.
The article notes that Sims is collaborative and integrates problem solving for multiple benefits to county citizens. For example, land-use policies support development of transit-oriented and walkable communities that benefit the health of residents and the environment. "That holistic approach is the genius of Sims' leadership style," the article states.
This is the second national magazine to award Sims a leader of the year award. Governing Magazine named Sims a 'Leader of the Year" in 2006.