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Archived news - 2002 (2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997) December 2002 Dec. 31, 2002 Public Health releases report on death trends for King County Today, Public Health - Seattle & King County's Medical Examiner's Office released its annual report documenting deaths and death trends for the calendar year 2001. Dec. 23, 2002 King County, Seattle receive $15 million homeless assistance award Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels and King County Executive Ron Sims announced today that Seattle and King County have received $14,758,459 in federal McKinney Homeless Assistance funds for housing programs and support services for homeless people. Dec. 23, 2002 Rock Creek headwaters preserved as part of Huckleberry Land Exchange The Pilchuck Audubon Society, King County, Cascade Land Conservancy and Weyerhaeuser Co. today announced a significant addition of wetlands and mature forest to the protected land base in King County. The 100 acres includes most of Crow Marsh, the headwaters of Rock Creek in south King County near Ravensdale. Dec. 20, 2002 Sims and Edmonds praise deal to transfer pools King County Executive Ron Sims and Metropolitan King County Councilmember Carolyn Edmonds, Chair of the Council's Natural Resources, Parks and Open Space Committee, in a joint statement today praised a final agreement with the Northwest Center to keep the Northshore and Mercer Island pools open, and expressed their support for ongoing efforts to reopen Auburn and Kent pools. Dec. 18, 2002 2002 Housing Affordability Bulletin looks at impact of low interest rates and high rental vacancy King County Executive Ron Sims today released the 2002 Housing Affordability Bulletin that cites the lower interest rates of the past year as the main reason that sales of homes have remained accessible to median income families. With a six percent interest rate, a household making the median income could afford a home costing about $239,000. Last year those making the median income could afford a home costing $202,000. Dec. 12, 2002 King County Parks' regional vision takes shape King County Executive Ron Sims today applauded "major progress" in efforts to make the Parks Division more regionally-focused, while ensuring important parks and pools remain available to residents. Dec. 12, 2002 Sound Transit challenges I-776 to defend constituents’ right of local control; Board Chair announces others joining as co-plaintiffs," (external link) The Sound Transit Board decided today to join the constitutional challenge by Pierce and King Counties against Initiative 776. The Board, in its decision, noted the importance of protecting the principle of local control and meeting its obligation to the majority of Sound Transit District residents who voted against the measure. Dec. 12, 2002 12th annual "Night of 1,000 Stars" traffic safety patrols This weekend, law enforcement officers from around King County will patrol the roads in a united effort to purge dangerous drivers from our thoroughfares. "Holiday celebrations should bring joy not sorrow. Officers will be out in force, working the highways to save lives and avert tragedies," said King County Executive Ron Sims. Dec. 7, 2002 Sims honors five tireless Earth Heroes for winter 2002 King County Executive Ron Sims today honored five Native Plant Salvage Program volunteers as Earth Heroes for winter 2002. Janka Hobbs, Val Moore, Rick Thompson, Richard Tinsley, and Janet Wall were honored for their invaluable contributions to protect King County's environment. The ceremony was held at the Redmond Ridge planned community as part of the ten-year anniversary of the Salvage Program and an all day salvage event. Dec. 6, 2002 Sims to Honor Earth Heroes for winter 2002 Media advisory: King County Executive Ron Sims tomorrow will honor five volunteers of the Native Plant Salvage Program as Earth Heroes for winter 2002. Janka Hobbs of Kirkland; Val Moore of Issaquah; Rick Thompson of Seattle; Richard Tinsley of Shoreline; and Janet Wall of Issaquah will be honored for the invaluable contributions they have made in protecting King County's environment. Dec. 4, 2002 Community report card shows progress and setbacks King County Executive Ron Sims, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels, Bellevue Council Member Phil Noble, Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County and Jon Fine, President/CEO of United Way of King County today joined the King County Children and Family Commission to release Communities Count 2002, providing baseline information about the health of people and communities in King County. This is the group's second biennial report, updating these people and community indicators. Dec. 3, 2002 Sims, local leaders and the King County Children and Family Commission to release Communities Count 2002 report Media advisory: King County Executive Ron Sims and the King County Children and Family Commission tomorrow will release the Communities Count 2002 report. The report provides baseline information about the health of people and communities in King County. Sims and the Commission will be joined by Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels, Bellevue Councilmember Phil Noble, Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County, and Jon Fine, President/CEO of United Way of King County. Dec. 3, 2002 King County Parks update Dear King County Parks supporter: As we enter the final month of 2002, our aggressive efforts at creating a financially stable park system continue. Driving this effort is the importance people throughout King County place on parks. Whether it is their neighborhood park, the opportunity to participate in Little League, or hike wooded trails, people count on parks as an important asset in our quality of life in King County. This week we took important steps to keep parks accessible to the public and increase revenues for active recreation facilities through modest fee increases. November 2002 Nov. 27, 2002 Message to employees: 2003 Budget Dear King County Employees: In a pre-holiday spirit, the King County Council this week approved a budget that reflected all the good things of the upcoming season - a spirit of cooperation, deliberations done peacefully and in partnerships with hope for innovations in the upcoming year. Nov. 26, 2002 King County Parks update Dear King County Parks supporter: This week, we announced the transfer of several parks and pools. In the face of an unprecedented budget crisis this is the crucial step needed to ensure the public can continue to enjoy these parks assets for years to come. The move will also help the Parks Division reach stable financial and operational footing by saving more than $1 million annually. Nov. 26, 2002 King County announces more park transfers, cost savings King County Executive Ron Sims today announced 11 new parks, pools and community center transfer and lease agreements, including deals to transfer Lake Wilderness Park to Maple Valley, Fort Dent Park to Tukwila and a long-term lease with Renton for West Hill Community Center. Nov. 26, 2002 Unique gates unveiled for East Lake Sammamish Interim Trail King County Executive Ron Sims today unveiled specially designed gates that will be installed in late 2003 or early 2004 along the East Lake Sammamish Interim Trail from which users and area residents alike will benefit. Nov. 25, 2002 Sims to unveil public art for East Lake Sammamish Interim Trail Media advisory: King County Executive Ron Sims tomorrow will unveil specially designed gates that will be installed along the East Lake Sammamish Interim Trail. Sims will be joined by the artist, Don Fels. Paid for by the One Percent For Art Program, the gate project was initiated after hearing through an extensive public process that residents desire high visual standards for the trail that are also cost effective. Nov. 25, 2002 Sims commends budget process; Looks ahead to equally challenging 2004 King County Executive Ron Sims today personally thanked the King County Council for its collaborative, cooperative approach used in adopting the annual operating budget for 2003. The budget, he said, deals with the difficult financial times in which counties across the state find themselves, and does so, as he proposed, within existing revenue limitations. Nov. 20, 2002 King County advances transfer agreements for parks and pools King County Executive Ron Sims today announced several key transfers of parks and pools to other agencies. This is part of King County’s plans to refocus its role as a regional service provider by limiting its operation of parks and pools within city jurisdictions. Sims said the agreements to transfer or lease seven parks and two pools will allow King County to avoid mothballing these facilities at the end of the year. Nov. 19, 2002 King County releases latest absentee ballot results King County today released the latest election results, which were made immediately available following this afternoon’s Canvassing Board meeting by printout and online. This is the last release before the Official Summary of Election Results on Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 2 p.m. Nov. 18, 2002 King County releases latest absentee ballot results King County today released the latest election results, which were immediately made available by printout and online. As of today, the Election office has received 326,572 absentee ballots. This is 97% of the 335,000 total absentee ballots expected. Last year at this time, 286,461 absentee ballots had been received. Nov. 15, 2002 16th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration This January, King County will hold its 16th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration. While King County government is facing tough financial times, it does not make our desire to work towards Dr. King's dream any less urgent. This celebration provides us with the opportunity to come together as colleagues and as a community to recognize the gaps and work to bridge them on a person to person basis. Nov. 14, 2002 King County releases latest absentee ballot results King County today released the latest election results, which were immediately made available by printout and online. Officials also announced that an additional day was added to the Elections Report Schedule for Monday, November 18. Nov. 14, 2002 King County Parks update Dear King County Parks supporter: The Tukwila City Council voted to take the South Central Pool and Enumclaw offered to pay King County to run its pool until the City of Enumclaw can ask its voters in February to lift the existing levy lid to operate the pool. Also, the ballot measures in Kirkland that would allow for the transfer of Juanita Beach Park to that city are passing. Nov. 13, 2002 World Diabetes Day brings together community to raise awareness, provide steps for personal action Media advisory. Tomorrow, Executive Ron Sims will join with community leaders and health care providers to raise awareness about the issue of diabetes in our community and outline prevention and management steps that people can take to benefit their health. Nov. 13, 2002 Sims to present 2002 employee recognition awards to Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention staff Media advisory. King County Executive Ron Sims tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2002, will join the King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) at the third annual Employee Recognition Awards Ceremony. This ceremony will recognize exceptional performance and outstanding contributions made by King County's DAJD employees, volunteers and others who work with or for the department. Nov. 13, 2002 Sims praises Council passage of parks plan King County Executive Ron Sims today praised the King County Council for passing the Parks Business Transition Plan, which he put before the Council as part of his 2003 budget. The plan outlines the savings and revenue generating initiatives that will be pursued along with operational changes necessary to put parks on stable financial and operational footing. Nov. 12, 2002 General Budget Advisory Task Force membership announced King County Executive Ron Sims today announced membership of his General Budget Advisory Task Force, that was announced last month as Sims delivered his Executive Proposed 2003 Budget to the King County Council. Nov. 12, 2002 King County releases latest absentee ballot results King County today released the latest election results, which were immediately made available by printout and online. Nov. 8, 2002 Street signs near Tahoma National Cemetery honor veterans KENT - United States military veterans were honored today in an unusual way, as street signs were unveiled near the Tahoma National Cemetery designating Southeast 240th Street as King County’s "Street of Heroes." Nov. 8, 2002 Updated King County election results released King County today released the latest election results. The results were immediately made available by printout and online. Nov. 8, 2002 Agencies gear up for 'Taking Winter by Storm' While no one can predict how many arctic blasts or pineapple expresses may come our way this season, agencies and major businesses in the King County region will head into this winter more prepared than ever before thanks to a new landmark agreement that will allow agencies to better respond to any type of weather event or disaster. Nov. 8, 2002 Deadline approaching to submit public-private ventures for King County parks and pools From parks naming rights and advertising suggestions to proposals for driving ranges, concession stands and restaurants, King County will soon entertain dozens of broad-ranging entrepreneurial ideas from businesses and individuals across Puget Sound and beyond. Nov. 7, 2002 New King County election results released King County today released the latest election results. The results were immediately made available by printout and online. Today's release of results was one of two additional releases scheduled. Nov. 7, 2002 Agencies launch 'Taking Winter by Storm' as first storms of the season head our way Media advisory. As the storm season begins with gusty November winds and rain headed our way, regional leaders will outline their individual winter readiness plans and unveil new tools for improving disaster response as they launch their sixth annual Taking Winter by Storm campaign. Nov. 7, 2002 King County Elections officials to release latest results King County Elections officials today will release an update on absentee ballot results from the general election. Two additional releases will take place as well. Nov. 6, 2002 Native American Heritage Month in King County King County Executive Ron Sim proclaimed the month of November 2002 to be Native American Heritage Month. Executive Sims encourages all residents to join him in celebrating and honoring the history and accomplishments of our native and indigenous community members and their ancestors and to take this opportunity to learn more about our country's first peoples. Nov. 4, 2002 Executive Sims' election night media availability Media advisory. King County Executive Ron Sims will be available tomorrow night, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2002, for comments on election results. Executive Sims will also hold an informal media availability, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2002, to discuss the impact of the results on King County. Nov. 4, 2002 King County to transfer South Central Pool to City of Tukwila At its meeting tonight, the Tukwila City Council is scheduled to take final action on an interlocal agreement that will transfer the ownership of the South Central Pool from King County to the City of Tukwila. Accompanying the pool agreement is another interlocal agreement concerning the maintenance and rehabilitation/replacement of the South Park Bridge. Nov. 1, 2002 King County Parks update Dear King County Parks supporter: We have been working hard the past week on passing the 2003 budget, which provides the framework and many of the changes necessary to give the Parks Division the flexibility necessary to pursue new, entrepreneurial ways of doing business. At this point, I am optimistic about beginning 2003 with the tools necessary to continue the transition we have begun. Nov. 1, 2002 Absentee ballots all distributed; Elections office open Saturday for assistance King County election officials said today that all absentee ballots have been in the mail stream since Saturday, October 26, and that all voters requesting absentee ballots should have received them. If voters still have any concerns or have not received their ballots, there is still time to pick up a ballot in-person at the Elections office. Nov. 1, 2002 Seasonal closure of parks begins today Budget constraints and I-747 will force seasonal closure of some parks King County Executive Ron Sims announced today. Twenty-four parks are scheduled to close today adding to the 20 parks that have been closed since Jan. 1, 2002. October 2002 Oct. 29, 2002 King County Parks update Dear King County Parks supporter: We have taken a major step forward in our plan to transition King County parks to be more financially stable by relying on new, entrepreneurial ways of doing business. Oct. 25, 2002 King County Parks update Dear King County park supporter: I recently announced my 2003 proposed budget. The theme of my speech to the King County Council was that though these times are difficult, we remain undaunted and resolute in our efforts to meet the challenges ahead by doing business differently. Oct. 24, 2002 King County police agencies team-up to launch region's first "AMBER" Alert Program Members of the King County law enforcement community gathered this afternoon to launch the King County Regional AMBER Alert Program — a first for the Puget Sound region. All 39 police agencies in King County have contributed to developing uniform policies and procedures that will now allow the agencies to partner with the media and public to mount an all-out search for children who have been abducted. Oct. 24, 2002 Music at Marymoor: Sims announces new concert series King County Executive Ron Sims announced today that Puget Sound music lovers can soon add King County's beautiful Marymoor Park near Redmond to their outdoor concert venue list. Oct. 24, 2002 Officers "Surround the Sound" searching for dangerous drivers during Halloween "Halloween should be a time of harmless scares not frightening tragedies," said King County Executive Ron Sims. "Shock friends and neighbors with your costume, not your driving." Oct. 23, 2002 Sims announces new vision for Marymoor Park King County Executive Ron Sims outlined a new, broad-ranging "Marymoor Vision" today, detailing new plans for an outdoor concert series, a golf driving range, and an athletic field complex at the County's 640-acre Marymoor Park near Redmond. Oct. 23, 2002 Courthouse Seismic Retrofit Project underway; Two-year project to ensure public safety King County Executive Ron Sims today took a sledgehammer to the 85-year old Courthouse in downtown Seattle to officially begin construction to make the venerable old building seismically safe. The two-year project, approved following the February earthquake last year, will remain open throughout the project, keeping business going day to day as the Courthouse is made safe for the more than 2.5 million residents who visit the courts, the prosecutor, Executive and County Council each year. Oct. 22, 2002 Sims to kick-off Courthouse Seismic Project Media advisory. King County Executive Ron Sims tomorrow will kick-off the Courthouse Seismic Project with a ceremonial wall breaking that is sure to be smashing. Sims will be joined by county and construction staffs. Oct. 22, 2002 Sims to announce major enhancements to Marymoor Media advisory. King County Executive Ron Sims joined by others will hold a press conference tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2002, to announce major enhancements to Marymoor Park. Oct. 22, 2002 King County reports show contrast between short-term and long-term trends in region King County Executive Ron Sims today released the 2002 Annual Growth Report and the 2002 Benchmark Report. When taken together, they paint a complex picture of the region's growth, and its impacts on transportation, the economy, the environment, and housing. Oct. 22, 2002 New water conservation program creates a washer-load of savings for King County residents, environment Symbolizing the benefits of new water-efficient washing machines, King County Executive Ron Sims pulled a jug of water, a plush duck and play money out of a washer Tuesday at a King County Housing Authority facility in Bellevue. Oct. 21, 2002 King County District Court announces consolidation plan for 2003 Starting on November 1, 2002 all cases currently filed in the Federal Way and Renton Divisions of King County District Court will be transferred to the Aukeen Court in Kent and Southwest Court in Burien respectively, as a part of King County District Court’s consolidation plan. Cases filed after November 1 will be dispersed to all 9 remaining court locations. Oct. 18, 2002 Absentee ballots in the mail to voters - Last day to register to vote is Monday King County Executive Ron Sims reminded voters and potential voters in the county that there is still time to register to vote for the General Election, November 5. Oct. 17, 2002 County to protect residents' credit card information when they buy services on-line King County Executive Ron Sims today recommended legislation protecting the privacy of credit card information obtained when the public uses a credit card to pay for County goods and services. Oct. 14, 2002 King County Executive's Proposed 2003 Budget Message to employees. Today I presented my proposed budget for next year to the County Council. As you know, we face many financial challenges that have had an impact on each of you and the jobs you do. One of my key messages in my budget speech was that the effort you have put into creative and innovative solutions is what has helped us reach the reductions we were able to achieve. Oct. 14, 2002 Sims' Proposed 2003 Budget reflects new innovative ways of doing county business King County Executive Ron Sims today proposed a budget of almost $3.1 billion that includes new and innovative efforts and has met the challenge of a $52 million deficit through efficiencies, reduced overhead and entrepreneurial programs. Oct. 11, 2002 King County Parks update Dear Concerned Citizen: We had another week of exciting announcements about how we are enhancing King County Parks by doing business differently. I am particularly pleased at forging new partnerships that will serve the public well by enhancing King County Parks. Oct. 10, 2002 Partnership creates unique legacy near Redmond for recreation, and the environment King County Executive Ron Sims today announced an innovative partnership that over the next three to five years will create new regional active recreational complexes, develop a new equestrian park, enhance the preservation of nearly 700 acres of wetlands, significantly reduce the number of housing units in the second phase of Redmond Ridge, and return a portion of the land to a rural designation. Oct. 9, 2002 Sims to announce innovative partnership that creates unique legacy in Redmond for recreation and the environment Media advisory. King County Executive Ron Sims tomorrow, Thursday, October 10, 2002, will announce a partnership that will expand recreation opportunities and protect aspects of the environment during the second phase of development at Redmond Ridge. Sims will be joined by Gene Duvernoy, president of Cascade Land Conservancy; Steve Dennis, president of Quadrant Corp.; and Robert Young, executive director of Lake Washington Youth Soccer Association. Oct. 8, 2002 King County Parks exploring ways to create more happy campers King County Executive Ron Sims said today that the county's business-minded Parks Division will soon set up camp as a major regional site provider. Enhanced camping services at two regional county parks could increase the revenue generated by these facilities by as much as 110 percent. Oct. 8, 2002 Puget Sound selected as venue for upcoming international "Top Officials" counter-terrorism exercise Washington Governor Gary Locke, King County Executive Ron Sims and Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels announced today they have accepted an invitation from the U.S. Department of Justice and State Department to participate in TOPOFF 2 - a major counter-terrorism exercise that will involve both U.S. and Canadian first responders and national officials. The exercise will held in May 2003. Oct. 7, 2002 King County welcomes support from new parks foundation King County Executive Ron Sims announced today that a non-profit foundation newly formed to support King County parks represents an important and positive step in his parks transition efforts. Oct. 7, 2002 "King County demonstrates waste prevention, recycling pay off By reusing bus motors, eliminating 600,000 pages of paper and dozens of actions King County employees are leading the way in workplace recycling, waste reduction, and purchasing of products made from recycled materials. King County will be recognized as the Environmental Protection Agency's WasteWise program's "Partner of the Year". Oct. 4, 2002 King County Parks update Dear Concerned Citizen: Since you are someone who has indicated a desire to be kept informed on issues related to King County's parks system, I wanted to update you on where we stand and share some good news. Oct. 3, 2002 Ideas Wanted: King County seeks new public-private ventures for parks and pools King County Executive Ron Sims today announced he is seeking new and innovative concepts that will enhance services and generate revenue for parks and pools. The formal Request for Ideas and Proposals (RFI&P) will be distributed nationwide and any for-profit, non-profit, group or individual is eligible. Oct. 1, 2002 Sound fiscal management in tough economic times allows King County to maintain credit ratings King County Executive Ron Sims announced today that $40.4 million in general obligation bonds for roads projects were sold with a low interest rate and an excellent credit rating thanks to necessary action on the budget in tough financial times. Oct. 1, 2002 King County to transfer Beaver Lake Park and Lodge to City of Sammamish King County Executive Ron Sims, Councilmember David Irons and Sammamish Mayor Troy Romero announced today that an agreement has been reached to allow the City of Sammamish to assume ownership of Beaver Lake Park and Beaver Lake Lodge. September 2002 Sept. 26, 2002 King County Jobs Initiative receives additional EPA training funds This Saturday when King County Executive Ron Sims celebrates the fourth anniversary of the King County Jobs Initiative (KCJI), a workforce development program he created four years ago, he will also celebrate $50,000 in supplemental funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Sept. 20, 2002 Sims to host joint forum for King County Unincorporated Area Councils Media advisory. King County Executive Ron Sims will host a joint forum to meet with the six King County Unincorporated Area Councils (UACs). The public is encouraged to join Executive Sims, other elected officials, King County department directors, and residents and members of the UACs as they discuss various issues facing their communities. Sept. 19, 2002 Latino-Hispanic Heritage Month Executive Sims proclaims September 2002 as Latino-Hispanic Heritage Month in King County and encourages all residents to join him in celebrating the immeasurable contributions of Latino-Hispanic Americans in our region by participating in the many activities and events planned for this most special of occasions. Sept. 18, 2002 Sims recommends protection of ecological lands King County Executive Ron Sims today recommended acquiring $6.5 million in ecological lands to protect environmentally sensitive open spaces, water quality, and fish and wildlife habitat. The land will be paid for with existing Conservation Futures Funds. Sept. 17, 2002 King County employees pay tribute to hero Contributions from 268 King County employees will allow a separate education trust to be established for the benefit of Deputy Herzog's daughters. The trust will pay for each child's entire college education. Deputy Herzog was shot with his own gun as he attempted to apprehend a suspect in the City of Newcastle. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. Sept. 16, 2002 West Nile virus: Sims, Public Health director outline steps for preparation and prevention Today, King County Executive Ron Sims joined with Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County, in outlining the steps King County is taking to prepare for the eventual arrival of the West Nile virus and called on the public to contribute to these preventive actions. Sept. 11, 2002 Kick off of diabetes campaign targeting ethnic minority populations Today, Public Health - Seattle & King County and partner community health organizations in the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) Coalition are kicking off a diabetes media campaign focusing on African Americans, Asian Americans/Pacific Islander Americans and Latinos/Hispanics, populations disproportionately affected by diabetes. Sept. 9, 2002 Executive proposed Six-Year Transit Plan adopted; regional, suburban bus service to increase King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the Regional Transit Committee and the County Council for their review and adoption of the County's transit plan for new service over the next six years that is based on current and future population growth. Sept. 5, 2002 A message of peace and commemoration for September 11 As September 11th draws near, we all remember the events of that day last year, and about how much those events continue to change our lives. Sept. 5, 2002 Sims' reorganizations deliver millions of dollars in savings King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that a careful review of two major reorganizations he put into place last year showed the changes saved the financially struggling County $10 million and reduced 119 jobs. Sept. 4, 2002 King County events to commemorate September 11 King County Executive Ron Sims today announced activities planned throughout the County to commemorate the anniversary of September 11. Executive Sims will join Governor Gary Locke, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels and others in a memorial service at noon at Westlake Center to be followed by a walk to the Seattle Center. Sept. 4, 2002 Sims announces new entrepreneurial vision for future funding and operation of parks King County Executive Ron Sims today released his final plan for transitioning the existing parks system into one that embraces a broad new, entrepreneurial approach to doing business. The new vision for parks is based on the work of two citizen groups and an unprecedented outreach program involving thousands of citizens. Sept. 4, 2002 Council to explore "recreating" county government The Metropolitan King County Council today called for the creation of a commission to look into the current structure of King County. "In 1968, King County residents had the courage to say their current system of governance wasn’t working and that it was time to make a change," said County Executive Ron Sims. "Thirty-four years later, we are facing a similar crossroads. Much like the freeholders who crafted the original charter, we are asking the members of this commission on governance to work on potential changes to meet the challenges of this generation." August 2002 Aug. 29, 2002 Partners mark launch of transit facility improvements in Lynnwood that will significantly improve commute times (external link) Sound Transit joined with federal, state and community partners today for a ceremonial groundbreaking on improvements at the Lynnwood Transit Facility, southern Snohomish County’s most vital transit hub. The improvements should shave up to 15 minutes off bus rides between Snohomish and King counties during heavy commuting periods. Aug. 28, 2002 Sims, Edmonds support new ways to preserve arts and heritage resources outside county government Citing yet another example of how King County is doing business differently, King County Executive Ron Sims and Councilmember Carolyn Edmonds today announced an initiative to transform the County's Office of Cultural Resources to a quasi-independent Cultural Development Authority (CDA). Aug. 28, 2002 Statement of Executive Ron Sims on commandeered Metro bus "Today's commandeering of a King County Metro bus was a senseless act, and a terrible tragedy for those who were injured in the subsequent collisions. Our hearts go out to those who were in the path of this individual." Aug. 28, 2002 New jail agreement recommended by county, cities' negotiating teams King County Executive Ron Sims and David Moseley, Federal Way City Manager acting on behalf of 37 King County cities, today jointly announced a recommended agreement on jail services between the County and the cities, including Seattle and Bellevue. The agreement is subject to approval by each respective city council and the King County Council. Aug. 23, 2002 Courthouse seismic retrofit project to begin King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that seismic retrofitting on the courthouse will be getting underway in September, and he urged the public that will be using the building to exercise caution and patience with the project. Aug. 23, 2002 King County plans wastewater treatment facility for Carnation King County Executive Ron Sims today responded to a request from Carnation's residents with a plan to treat all sewage from homes, schools and businesses in the City of Carnation now and in the future. Aug. 22, 2002 King County integrates salmon recovery into everyday work; New report outlines accomplishments, future vision King County Executive Ron Sims today issued a report indicating the county's new way of doing environmentally-sensitive work in everything from the way flood control levees are repaired to maintaining county roads and parks. These new business practices are in response to the federal listing of chinook salmon and bull trout as threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA.) Aug. 20, 2002 Federal government gives major green light to Central Link light rail project (external link) The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) today gave Sound Transit permission to complete Final Design of the revised portions of the Central Link light rail alignment and released $50 million in federal funding for construction of the initial segment of the system. Sound Transit Board Chair Ron Sims received the good news from U.S. Senator Patty Murray this afternoon. Aug. 19, 2002 Sims thanks King County Council for endorsing transfer of Juanita Beach King County Executive Ron Sims today received approval from the King County Council to enter into negotiations to transfer the Juanita Beach Park to the City of Kirkland. Aug. 19, 2002 Sims' reforms to encourage growth in urban areas and simplify certain permitting processes King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the King County Council for approving and adopting his Regulatory Reform Ordinance that supports his Smart Growth initiatives by encouraging development within the Urban Growth Area (UGA). The proposed changes will also simplify the permitting process for projects that pose little environmental risk in both the rural and urban areas. Aug. 13, 2002 Sims announces preferred alternative for Brightwater wastewater treatment system King County Executive Ron Sims today announced his preferred alternative for the new Brightwater wastewater treatment system is the State Route 9 site in Snohomish County. The proposed system will include conveyance pipes installed in tunnels mostly located in King County. The outfall to Puget Sound would be at Point Wells on the King/Snohomish County border. Aug. 13, 2002 King County Office of Civil Rights to hold free anti-discrimination seminars in White Center, Boulevard Park, Skyway Learn about your responsibilities and rights under King County anti-discrimination laws. The King County Office of Civil Rights will present six seminars in the southwest Seattle area. Aug. 12, 2002 Sims, Nickels, Sullivan and Steinbrueck join West Coast port communities urging Bush administration to allow collective bargaining process to continue King County Executive Ron Sims, King County Council Chair Cynthia Sullivan, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels and Seattle City Council President Peter Steinbrueck expressed their concern with the Bush administration's threat of federal intervention in the current West Coast contract negotiations between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA), and urged the administration to allow the negotiations to proceed. Aug. 7, 2002 Employees use new ways to do business, save $2.8 million in cost-cutting program King County Executive Ron Sims today applauded employees of the County’s Wastewater Treatment Division, who, by exploring ways of doing business differently, in 2001 saved more than $2.8 million in an innovative cost-cutting pilot productivity program modeled on the business practices of private industry. Aug. 6, 2002 Message to employees: Budget update It has been several weeks since I have sent you an update regarding King County's ongoing budget challenges. As you may have read in the papers, the regional economic news is not as optimistic as we would have hoped. Aug. 5, 2002 King County adopts lobbyist registration requirements On July 30, 2002, King County adopted initial administrative rules implementing the provisions of Ordinance 13320, sometimes referred to as the Lobbyist Disclosure Ordinance. The ordinance requires immediate registration and quarterly reporting by lobbyists, lobbyist employer's and grass root lobbyists who lobby the county to influence legislation. Aug. 5, 2002 Duwamish sites proposed for early clean up SEATTLE - Representatives from an innovative public-private partnership announced today their readiness to work in a proactive manner with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the state Department of Ecology (Ecology) to begin "early action" cleanup at up to four sites along Seattle’s Lower Duwamish Waterway. Aug. 5, 2002 Blue Angels pilots inspire students in "Opportunity Skyway" Lt. Max "Pepper" McCoy flew in the fourth position during last weekend's annual SEAFAIR visit from the Blue Angels, but on the Friday before, he and Sean Connelly, his parachute packer, took time out to speak to teenage airplane builders and future aviators taking part in a unique aviation education program at the King County International Airport. Aug. 2, 2002 Election Office mails out new voter cards The King County Elections office announced that Elections has begun mailing out approximately 450,000 Voter Registration Cards to notify voters of changes to their districts due to 10-year Census redistricting. Voters will continue to receive notices during the first part of August. July 2002 July 31, 2002 Blue Angels pilots to meet with student airplane builders King County Executive Ron Sims and Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Joseph Olchefske will welcome elite fighter pilots with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels this Friday, in a meeting with teenage airplane builders and future aviators taking part in a unique aviation education program at the King County International Airport. July 31, 2002 Happy birthday Cottage Lake Community Service Center! King County has something to celebrate: Cottage Lake Community Service Center has been open for five years! July 29, 2002 Sims unveils new Procurement and Contract Services Web site King County Executive Ron Sims today unveiled the new King County Procurement and Contract Services Web site. Featuring a new design and a new Internet address the Procurement and Contract Services Web site was developed to provide enhanced services to vendors and the general public and to support the County’s annual purchase of nearly $750 million worth of goods and services. July 29, 2002 Transit security gets new emphasis after 9/11 Since the Sept. 11th tragedy, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has launched a security initiative aimed at helping transportation agencies and first responders better prepare and protect their communities through coordinated emergency response efforts. July 26, 2002 Federal funds awarded for regional transportation projects The U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation yesterday approved its version of the FY2003 transportation spending bill. In addition to $35 million for Sound Transit projects, $17.8 million was also approved for the following projects. July 24, 2002 Ames Lake Forest saved through transfer of development rights program King County Executive Ron Sims and King County Councilmember Larry Phillips, a longtime environmental advocate, today announced the preservation of the 443-acre Ames Lake Forest near Carnation in perpetuity through the County’s transfer of development rights program (TDR). July 24, 2002 Sims honors unsung Earth Heroes for summer 2002 King County Executive Ron Sims and King County Councilmember Larry Phillips today honored Birmingham Steel, Peter Hurley, and the Vashon-Maury Island Land Trust as Earth Heroes for summer 2002. July 23, 2002 Transit officials and first responders gather to increase public transportation emergency readiness Media advisory. Transportation officials and emergency responders from across the Northwest will take another step toward strengthening homeland security when they meet in Seattle for a two-day Federal Transit Administration (FTA) forum aimed at expanding the region’s ability to respond to emergencies. July 19, 2002 Senator Murray secures $1.8 million for Maury Island shoreline (external link to Word .doc file) U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.) announced this week that she secured $1.8 million towards the purchase of 300 acres of rural, coastal land on Maury Island, which is currently threatened by gravel extraction activities. This appropriation was part of a $34 million salmon and conservation funding package secured for Washington State by Senator Murray as part of the Senate fiscal year 2003 Commerce, Justice, State and Judiciary bill. July 18, 2002 King County Parks Message to concerned citizens. Today I issued recommendations to the Metropolitan King County Council that outline long- and short-term solutions based on new savings and revenue-generating options to put the park system on stable financial and operational footing. My recommendations are part of a soon-to-be-released business plan for the future of parks, which call for a new way of doing business. The final plan will be complete by the end of the month. July 18, 2002 King County's Sesquicentennial Message to employees. On Dec. 22, 2002, King County will celebrate its 150th Anniversary - the Sesquicentennial - of the creation of our County. I would like to encourage all employees and residents of King County to learn about the history of their local government as we face a challenging future. July 18, 2002 Sims issues plan for the future of parks King County Executive Ron Sims today outlined long- and short-term solutions for putting the parks system on stable financial and operational footing. Recommendations call for a new way of doing business. July 17, 2002 Nubian goat crowned King County Fair's official mascot at opening ceremonies A Nubian goat named Dulce de Leche from Duvall edged 12 worthy animals vying for honors Wednesday as the King County Fair's Royal Critter in Enumclaw. July 17, 2002 Executive Sims, Councilmember Hague and Mayor Springer announce transfer of Juanita Beach Park to City of Kirkland King County Executive Ron Sims, County Councilmember Jane Hague and Kirkland Mayor Larry Springer announced today that an agreement has been reached to allow the City to assume ownership of Juanita Beach Park. July 16, 2002 $7.25 million awarded for affordable housing King County has awarded $7.25 million in low-income housing grants and loans to fourteen housing projects that will create or preserve 472 affordable housing units, King County Executive Ron Sims announced today. July 16, 2002 Sims, Hague, Springer to announce future of Juanita Beach Park Media advisory. King County Executive Ron Sims, King County Councilmember Jane Hague and Kirkland Mayor Larry Springer will hold a news conference tomorrow to make a formal announcement regarding Juanita Beach Park. July 12, 2002 13 finalists selected for King County Fair’s Royal Critter A rooster named Jeremy-One-Spur, a guide dog named Floyd, and a Nubian goat named Dulce de Leche are among 13 finalists selected for the Critter Crowning contest July 17 at the King County Fair in Enumclaw. July 9, 2002 Metropolitan King County Council to receive report on Active Sports and Youth Recreation Media advisory. The Metropolitan King County Council will be briefed on the report of the King County Active Sports and Youth Recreation (ASpYRe) Commission at 1:30 pm Thursday, July 11 at the meeting of the Natural Resources, Parks and Open Space (NRPOS) Committee in the King County Council Chambers. July 8, 2002 Federal grant awarded to remove underground storage tanks, contamination in King County and Seattle King County Executive Ron Sims and Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels announced that the city and county will receive $100,000 in grant funds from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Underground Storage Tanks (OUST). The funding will aid the cleanup efforts at three contaminated sites slated to become a sculpture garden, affordable housing and the educational center of a museum. July 3, 2002 Riverbank excavation project designed to relieve chronically flooded City of Snoqualmie King County Executive Ron Sims today recommended reducing the chronic and hazardous flooding of homes and businesses in and around the Snoqualmie community through a construction project with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, King County and the City of Snoqualmie. 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 | 1998 | 1997 By visiting this and other King County web pages, you expressly agree to be bound by terms and conditions of the site. The details. |
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