December 2003

Dec. 31, 2003
Snow arrives to usher in the new year
King County Department of Transportation road crews began sanding and plowing roads early this morning in anticipation of the morning commute.

Dec. 30, 2003
Extra patrols continue through the New Year
Extra police patrols from a variety of King County law enforcement agencies will continue to keep an eye out for impaired drivers on New Year's Eve and through the weekend. These patrols are part of the statewide "Drive Hammered - Get Nailed" Holiday Campaign, funded by the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.

Dec. 29, 2003
Food Worker Card training and testing schedule for 2004 now available
Public Health - Seattle & King County announced the 2004 schedule for training and testing sessions for food handlers needing a Food Worker Card. The full schedule is available on the Web.

Dec. 26, 2003
California quake victims made the wrong choice; King County reminds residents to drop, cover & hold
Following the February 28, 2001 Nisqually Earthquake, King County OEM took an unscientific poll that showed only 55 percent of respondents actually performed the drop, cover and hold maneuver during that Northwest quake. Incredibly no one was killed in the 2001 quake by running out of buildings. Unfortunately this was not the case in the recent California quake. (link no longer active)

Dec. 24, 2003
King County makes it easy to recycle Christmas Trees
King County residents can get rid of their Christmas trees and help the environment at the same time. King County is sponsoring several "Tree-Cycling" events the first weekend in January where residents can recycle their Christmas trees and take home the wood chips for their yards.

Dec. 21, 2003
Threat level Orange - gift idea: Give the gift of disaster preparedness
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) raised the nation's threat level to Orange (High) today, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2003 due to increased intelligence intercepts indicating that the threat of a terrorist attack is significant and "perhaps greater now than at any point" since Sept. 11, 2001.

Dec. 19, 2003
King County Medical Examiner’s Office seeks public's help in identifying individual
The King County Medical Examiner’s Office is attempting to identify a person found near 12th Street South and Dearborn Street.

Dec. 19, 2003
King County, Seattle receive $16.9 million homeless assistance award
King County and the City of Seattle have been awarded $16,995,421 in federal McKinney Homeless Assistance funds for housing programs and support services for homeless people.

Dec. 18, 2003
King County Parks update
This has been a tremendous year for parks. We have made great strides in our effort to stabilize parks financially and operationally by building on last year’s solid foundation and continuing to implement the business transition plan created by the Metropolitan Parks Task Force.

Dec. 18, 2003
Extra police patrols watching roads
Tomorrow night, extra police patrols will spread out across King County's urban, suburban and rural roadways in search of drunk, impaired, and dangerous drivers. This local effort is part of the statewide "Night of 1000 Stars."

Dec. 18, 2003
Sims announces Health Care Advisory Task Force
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced the formation of a Health Care Advisory Task (HAT) Force that will recommend an innovative and achievable set of strategies to improve the quality of health care while potentially saving millions of dollars.

Dec. 17, 2003
$9.9 million awarded for affordable housing
King County has awarded $9.9 million in low-income housing grants and loans to fifteen housing projects that will create or preserve 415 affordable housing units, King County Executive Ron Sims announced today.

Dec. 17, 2003
Public Health reminds that simple steps can help prevent the spread of flu
Public Health- Seattle & King County is reminding the public that they can play an important part in helping to prevent the spread of respiratory illness.

Dec. 15, 2003
King County works with neighborhood alliance to save Juanita woodland from development
King County Executive Ron Sims' proposed measure to keep a 36-acre parcel of land near Kirkland a permanent woodland was adopted by the King County Council today.

Dec. 15, 2003
Aviation anniversary celebrated locally with debut of long-lost film footage
This week, aviation enthusiasts around the world are celebrating the 100th Anniversary of manned flight, and remembering the Wright Brothers’ historic lift-off at Kitty Hawk.

Dec. 15, 2003
Sims, King County Medic One honors lifesavers
King County Executive Ron Sims joined with King County Medic One Paramedics and other officials at Renton Fire Department, Station 14 to honor individuals and a distinguished community partner who have provided lifesaving services for the community.

Dec. 15, 2003
Public Health leads community effort in SARS preparation
Public Health - Seattle & King County is sponsoring a seminar that uses the Toronto experience with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) to highlight the broad legal, policy and health care challenges in preparing for an outbreak of infectious disease or similar public health emergency.

Dec. 12, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on Dec. 19
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, Dec. 19, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Dec. 12, 2003
Damage reports from recent windstorm in King County (external link)
Residents in King County have reported over $2 million in damages to private property from the recent windstorm. Following the windstorm, residents were requested to report damages to the King County Office of Emergency Management.

Dec. 12, 2003
Metro adjusts bus schedules for holidays
Bus riders will want to be prepared for schedule changes during the upcoming winter holidays.

Dec. 11, 2003
Holiday safety tips from the King County Fire Marshal
The United States Fire Administration reports that, during the past holiday season, 2,600 individuals were injured and approximately $930 million in property damage occurred nationally. The King County Fire Marshal's Office would like to assist you in keeping this holiday season safe and joyful and offers the following safety tips.

Dec. 11, 2003
Sims, Nickels urge talks to continue in Darigold lockout
King County Executive Ron Sims and Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels today urged both sides in the Darigold lockout to go back to the table and resolve issues that have resulted in 200 employees being locked out during the holidays.

Dec. 10, 2003
Vintage buses roll out for holiday light tour Dec. 13
Take a holiday trip back in time on Saturday, Dec. 13 as the Metro Employees Historic Vehicle Association hosts a holiday light tour via vintage buses. The boarding zone is in Pioneer Square at Main Street and Second Avenue South, across the street from the fire station. The holiday buses depart at 7 p.m., and it’s first-come-first-served. The trip lasts about 2-1/2 hours.

Nov. 29, 2003
Flood conditions continue to improve along the Snoqualmie; River expected to crest downstream at Carnation this evening
Moderate flooding along the Snoqualmie River continues to ease this afternoon after heavy rain prompted a Phase Three Flood Alert to be issued overnight. A Phase Three Flood Alert was also posted for the Tolt River, which crested a short time later.

Nov. 29, 2003
Flooding in the Snoqualmie Valley beginning to ease
The King County Flood Warning Center reports both the Tolt River and the Snoqualmie River in the upper Snoqualmie Valley have crested after heavy rain pushed the rivers out of their banks causing moderate flooding overnight.

Nov. 29, 2003
Mountain rain causes flooding in Snoqualmie Valley
King County opened its Flood Warning Center at 1 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, to monitor flooding on the Snoqualmie and Tolt Rivers. Heavy rain and warm temperatures in the mountains have caused recent snow to melt. Cooler temperatures and improving conditions are expected later Saturday. The Sum of the Forks of the Snoqualmie River is 12,797 cubic feet per second and rising. It is 3080 cfs on the Tolt at Carnation. Roads in the area are expected to close later as flood waters move through the river system, however no roads are closed at this time.

Nov. 28, 2003
County Executive Sims to announce decision for location of Brightwater wastewater treatment facilities
Media advisory. A major announcement will be made by King County Executive Ron Sims for locations of the Brightwater wastewater treatment facilities serving south Snohomish County and north King County.

Nov. 26, 2003
Message to Employees: 2004 Budget
This week, through a bipartisan effort the King County Council approved a budget of $3 billion for 2004. We can all feel that the process this year was a productive one. Although we have faced severe financial challenges the last three years, through aggressive management — budget cuts, efficiencies and getting out of some businesses — we have made King County a truly lean, effective regional government. ...more

Nov. 25, 2003
Community meeting Dec. 11 on plans to replace Juanita Bay Pump Station
Staff from King County's Wastewater Treatment Division will describe plans for replacing an aging wastewater pump station on Juanita Drive Northeast at a community meeting Thursday, Dec. 11.

Nov. 25, 2003
Regional electronics recycling efforts expand find a home for your unwanted electronics
With the rapid development of new technology, electronic products can become obsolete within a few short years. Improper disposal of electronic equipment can be harmful to the environment and generate unnecessary waste. To encourage proper disposal or reuse of old electronics, the King County Solid Waste Division has developed the Take it Back Network, a group of local electronic repair and resale shops, recyclers and nonprofit groups that recycle or reuse electronic equipment.

Nov. 25, 2003
Giving experiences instead of stuff can cut holiday stress and waste
The Friday after Thanksgiving Americans kicks off the biggest shopping season of the year, which is also the time of year where Americans generate the most waste. Nationwide, 25 percent more waste is generated between Thanksgiving and New Years than any other time of year.

Nov. 24, 2003
Care about agricultural issues? King County Agriculture Commission has vacancies to fill
The King County Agriculture Commission, established in 1995 to provide input to the King County Executive and County Council on matters pertaining to agriculture and agricultural land use, has six vacancies to fill.

Nov. 24, 2003
Sims commends Council for adopting key budget initiatives
King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the Metropolitan King County Council leadership for its adoption of a $3 billion 2004 budget that included all of his major initiatives including annexation, technology funds and collection of rent from the solid waste utility.

Nov. 21, 2003
Board of Health calls for preparations for the potential return of SARS
The King County Board of Health passed a resolution directing Public Health - Seattle & King County to increase the public health and medical care health care systems' ability to effectively respond to and control a potential SARS outbreak in King County.

Nov. 21, 2003
King County Board of Health approves updated solid waste code
The King County Board of Health approved today a revised solid waste code "Title 10" that governs the way Public Health - Seattle & King County regulates solid waste. In addition to incorporating the new state WAC 173-350, Title 10 sets out rules that are unique to King County.

Nov. 21, 2003
Wireless connections now available free at several County facilities
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced a pilot project that will allow visitors to several King County facilities to “log on” at no cost while conducting County business through a new wireless Internet connection, or "Wi-Fi."

Nov. 21, 2003
Record numbers enjoy Cedar River Salmon Journey
Nearly 5,000 people ventured to the Cedar River this fall to watch and learn about salmon, a new record for the Cedar River Salmon Journey environmental education program.

Nov. 20, 2003
King County honored with Outstanding Leadership in Government Award for environmental purchasing
King County's Environmental Purchasing Program this week received the Outstanding Leadership Award in Government from Sustainable Seattle.

Nov. 20, 2003
Community open house Dec. 3 on plans for Hidden Lake sewer project
King County’s Wastewater Treatment Division will hold a community open house on Wednesday, Dec. 3, on the Hidden Lake Sewer Improvement Project in Shoreline.

Nov. 20, 2003
New Metro buses feature low-floor entry and (yea!) air conditioning
King County Metro Transit is introducing a new model into its fleet of 1,300 buses. It is a bus with a low-floor entry that is easier and quicker to board, which should speed up bus trips.

Nov. 19, 2003
Community meeting Dec. 4 on plans for Carnation wastewater treatment facilities
Advanced wastewater treatment and alternatives for discharging treated wastewater are two of the topics to be discussed at a community meeting Thursday, Dec. 4, on the proposed Carnation wastewater treatment facilities.

Nov. 19, 2003
Final Brightwater environmental impact statement reflects improvements planned for wastewater treatment facilities
Significant improvements in the proposed Brightwater wastewater treatment system are reflected in the final environmental statement released today by King County. The improvements include better water quality, no odors and fewer impacts in residential neighborhoods.

Nov. 19, 2003
Public Health releases Medical Examiner annual report on death trends in King County
The King County Medical Examiner's Office at Public Health - Seattle & King County released its annual report documenting deaths and death trends for calendar year 2002.

Nov. 19, 2003
Snoqualmie crests at Carnation; Flood Warning Center closes
With the Snoqualmie River cresting at Carnation late this morning, King County is closing its Flood Warning Center.

Nov. 19, 2003
Toppled trees, snow and flooding cause driving hazards in east King County
High winds overnight have caused trees and power lines to fall across roads and yesterday’s heavy rain has turned to snow this morning. Numerous power outages are reported in east King County as well as flooded roads in the Snoqualmie, Carnation, and Duvall areas.

Nov. 18, 2003
Sims reaches agreement to transfer final urban pool
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced an agreement with the cities of Des Moines and Normandy Park, who will jointly own and operate the Mt. Rainier Pool. Mt. Rainier is the tenth and final in-city urban pool to transfer in King County's shift to a regional focus.

Nov. 18, 2003
King County to showcase geographic information technology at GIS Day tomorrow
Please join the King County GIS Center, Wednesday, November 19, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., to see how geographic information systems (GIS) are helping King County agencies and other customers make better decisions.

Nov. 18, 2003
King County continues to monitor rivers, roads; Snoqualmie River remains at Phase Three flood alert
King County's Flood Warning Center will continue to monitor rivers overnight after today's heavy rain storm. A Phase Three Flood Alert remains in effect for the Snoqualmie River.

Nov. 18, 2003
King County responds to significant flooding
King County is responding to a variety of storm-related problems this afternoon – everything from river flooding to local drainage complaints and road closures.

Nov. 18, 2003
Road closures and conditions
The King County Road Services Division is alerting motorists that moderate flooding on the Snoqualmie and Tolt rivers along with local street flooding is causing a variety of travel problems today. Heavy rain and windy conditions have combined to cause road-related problems throughout King County. Along the Tolt and Snoqualmie rivers, moderate flooding will cause several roads to be closed as the day progresses.

Nov. 18, 2003
Sims reaches agreement to transfer final urban pool
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced an agreement with the cities of Des Moines and Normandy Park, who will jointly own and operate the Mt. Rainier Pool. Mt. Rainier is the tenth and final in-city urban pool to transfer in King County's shift to a regional focus.

Nov. 18, 2003
Heavy rains causing urban and river flooding in King County
King County has posted Phase Three Flood Alerts for both the Tolt and Snoqualmie rivers in East King County, which means areas along those rivers will see moderate flooding as the day progresses. The county has opened its flood warning center to monitor and respond to flooding in the Snoqualmie Valley.

Nov. 14, 2003
King County looking for help to find source of illegal septic dumping in Snoqualmie Valley
A second incident of illegal septic dumping in the Snoqualmie Valley within the last month has King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks asking for the public's help in finding the culprit.

Nov. 14, 2003
Interchange work will impact bus service in SODO area between Nov. 16-25
Demolition work on the freeway interchange near Safeco Field will cause disruptions to Metro Transit service between Nov. 16 to Nov. 25.

Nov. 14, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on Nov. 21
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, Nov. 21, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Nov. 13, 2003
King County to halt local license fee collections
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that as of Monday, Nov. 17, the County will no longer be collecting the $15 local license fee when motorists pay their fees at King County licensing locations.

Nov. 13, 2003
Congressional committee earmarks more than $100 million for King County transportation improvements
A joint congressional conference committee has approved 15 transportation projects totaling $106 million for King County. As part of that package, King County’s Department of Transportation will receive a $13.1 million appropriation to support transportation improvements such as the purchase of new King County Metro Transit hybrid electric buses, countywide signal synchronization projects and the replacement of the South Park Bridge.

Nov. 12, 2003
New TV show emphasizes at-home food safety
Public Health - Seattle & King County, in an on-going effort to educate the public about food safety, has just produced a new television show entitled "Food Safety at Home."

Nov. 10, 2003
Lawmakers examine habitat restoration projects
Three state lawmakers and King County Executive Ron Sims braved periodic downpours Monday, Nov. 10, to view migrating sockeye salmon at several newly preserved habitat restoration sites on the Cedar River.

Nov. 10, 2003
Contaminated sediment cleanup begins in Duwamish River
To protect water quality, fish and ultimately public health, the agencies and tribes managing the Elliott Bay/Duwamish Restoration Program are dredging a 7-acre area of contaminated river sediment at the Duwamish/Diagonal combined sewer overflow and storm drain.

Nov. 7, 2003
Taking Winter by Storm press conference video and text transcript
Watch the press conference video. (free Real Player software needed)

Nov. 7, 2003
When rivers rise, King County's Flood Warning Center is ready to roll
When a record-setting rainstorm pounded the region on Oct. 20, King County's Flood Warning Center kicked into action and provided citizens and property owners the information they needed to deal with river flooding and its consequences.

Nov. 7, 2003
Residents, property owners in flood-prone areas benefit as King County readies for winter's rising waters
King County's Flood Hazard Reduction and Capital Improvement programs are continually engaged in projects to reduce flood hazards and maintain levees, buying out or elevating chronically flooded homes, and updating floodplain maps to identify hazardous areas.

Nov. 7, 2003
Naturalists offer last chance to see, learn about Cedar River salmon this weekend
Your last opportunity to view salmon while learning more about this wonder of the Pacific Northwest from volunteer Cedar River Naturalists occurs this weekend. Saturday, Nov. 8, is the final day of the Cedar River Salmon Journey program for 2003.

Nov. 7, 2003
Agencies gear up for 'Taking Winter by Storm'
The calendar may say fall but the weather is putting Puget Sound on notice that Mother Nature may not be quite so kind this season.

Nov. 7, 2003
King County Roads Division is prepared for winter's worst
Even though winter blew in early this year, the King County Roads Services Division hit the road running to deal with adverse driving conditions. Now, those pre-season scrimmages have the crews seasoned for what may turn out to be a stormy winter.

Nov. 7, 2003
Metro Transit gets tough to tackle winter
When the driving gets tough during those winter storms, leave the driving to some of the toughest wheels in town – King County Metro Transit’s fleet of 1,300 buses.

Nov. 5, 2003
Green River Homicides Investigation - Statement of Sheriff David G. Reichert
"On Friday, August 12, 1982, I was summoned to the banks of the Green River. A young woman who I would never know - whose smile I would not see and whose dreams or hopes I would never hear -had her life taken. The responsibility to find her killer was placed in our hands that day. Many more times would we assume this responsibility." More...

Nov. 5, 2003
Statement of Norm Maleng on Ridgway plea
"Our Green River nightmare is over. We have seen the face of justice: it brings truth for our community and for the families of the victims. Now the healing can begin." More...

Nov. 4, 2003
Sims to call for inquest in McCord Case; Snohomish County Executive Drewel concurs
King County Executive Ron Sims today called for an inquest into the death of Harold McCord, Jr., with the support of Snohomish County Executive Bob Drewel.

Nov. 4, 2003
King County seeing progress on hydrilla eradication at Pipe Lake and Lake Lucerne
The King County Lake Stewardship Program is reporting positive initial results from a new hydrilla control method used on Pipe Lake and Lake Lucerne. This and other outcomes from this year's Hydrilla Eradication Project will be covered in an upcoming public meeting.

Nov. 1, 2003
Native American Heritage Month
Executive Sims proclaims the month of November 2003 as Native American Heritage Month.

October 2003

Oct. 31, 2003
Close relationship with Cedar River keeps volunteer naturalist dispensing streamside wisdom
Homer Venishnick recalls, during the Great Depression, his father sharing the salmon they caught in the nearby Cedar River with hungry neighbors. Volunteer naturalists like Venishnick are on duty this weekend on both Saturday, Nov. 1, and Sunday, Nov. 2.

Oct. 31, 2003
Naturescaping Workshop provides opportunity to create low-maintenance, enviro-friendly landscapes
King County's Community Outreach Program is offering a free workshop in Maple Valley on crafting "enviro-friendly" and easily maintainable landscapes, November 6, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Oct. 31, 2003
Exhibit to showcase art, building and product designs that incorporate environmentally sustainable strategies
King County, the City of Seattle, and the Design Resource Institute will present a two-month exhibit titled "Sustainable Connections -- Art, Architecture & Product Design," beginning November 17 in Seattle.

Oct. 31, 2003
King County invites volunteers to salvage native plants
Join other volunteers digging up native trees and shrubs from a site soon to be cleared for a new school in Issaquah. The salvage occurs from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on November 8, and promises to be a great opportunity to help the environment.

Oct. 30, 2003
Executive names nominee for Superintendent of Elections
King County Executive Ron Sims and Director of Records, Elections and Licensing Services Dean Logan announced today the selection of Bill Huennekens as the county's new Superintendent of Elections.

Oct. 30, 2003
King County announces interactive election enhancements
Two new service features now give voters more options for finding their poll sites - an online look-up feature on the county's website and an interactive voice response system available at 206-296-VOTE.

Oct. 30, 2003
Scary driving will not be allowed during Halloween
Public Health - Seattle & King County, the Eastside DUI Task Force and the King County Traffic Safety Coalition are announcing the Fifth Annual "Surround the Sound" on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1.

Oct. 29, 2003
Proposals wanted: King County Parks invites public-private venture ideas
If you've got ideas for innovative concepts that can enhance services and generate revenue for parks and pools – and, of course, your business - King County wants to hear from you.

Oct. 28, 2003
Green River Task Force asks for help from the public
Between Aug. 21 and Aug. 23, detectives with the King County Sheriff's Office Green River Task Force discovered partial human remains while searching a wooded area off the Kent-Des Moines Road, approximately one-quarter mile northwest of the Reith Road.

Oct. 27, 2003
King County and cities reach accord over new district court contract
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced an agreement has been reached with the representatives of the cities of Bellevue, Burien, Carnation, Covington, Duvall, Kenmore, Mercer Island, Newcastle, Normandy Park, North Bend, Redmond, Sammamish, Shoreline, Skykomish, Snoqualmie and Woodinville over a new district court contract.

Oct. 27, 2003
Automated collection of parking fee at Marymoor will prevent commuter traffic and make it easier to pay
New parking fee collection machines installed at King County's Marymoor Park will reduce commuter traffic through the park and make it easier to pay. The new machines, which will issue dated receipts to be displayed on car dashboards visible through the front windshield, are also expected to increase compliance with the parking fee.

Oct. 26, 2003
Sheriff's deputies, police officer arrested and booked
Two King County sheriff's deputies and a City of Des Moines police officer were arrested Saturday night about 8 p.m.

Oct. 24, 2003
King County's efforts to reduce flood hazards helped protect people and property from record-setting rainstorm
Despite record rainfall on Monday, King County's floodplains came away largely unscathed. Unlike 1990 and 1995, for example, when Phase Four flooding on the Tolt River resulted in devastating property damages, similar Phase Four flows earlier this week on the Tolt did not create major problems.

Oct. 24, 2003
King County International Airport/Boeing Field to hold emergency disaster drill Saturday
King County International Airport (KCIA) at Boeing Field will be the site of a mock disaster drill on Saturday, Oct. 25.

Oct. 23, 2003
King County government saves citizens 30% on flood insurance premiums
King County has been recognized several years in a row by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for outstanding floodplain management programs, which translate directly into reduced flood insurance premiums for King County residents.

Oct. 22, 2003
Executive, Mayor break ground on affordable senior housing to create jobs, 208 units housing and 9,000 square feet of commercial space
King County Executive Ron Sims and Mayor Greg Nickels led a group of community, private sector and government partners to break ground today on the site of the future Rainier Court Senior Apartments in the 3500-3700 block of Rainier Avenue South.

Oct. 22, 2003
Floods stress septic systems, may lead to damage or failure
Heavy rains and floods put stress on septic systems, and the 100,000 King County households on septic "on-site sewage" systems should be on the lookout for tell-tale signs of trouble following the big storm this week.

Oct. 21, 2003
Record rainfall causes overflows at three of 42 wastewater pump stations
During the heaviest recorded rainfall in local history Oct. 20, three of King County's 42 wastewater pump stations overflowed into Puget Sound, Lake Washington and the Sammamish River.

Oct. 22, 2003
New Hyde Shuttle and Ride Options Hotline ready to serve seniors in Southeast Seattle
Two new innovative and free transportation services are now available to senior citizens and to people registered with King County Metro's ACCESS transportation program in Southeast Seattle.

Oct. 22, 2003
Snoqualmie River crests; floodwaters still cover several roads
The Snoqualmie River crested at Duvall at 39.64 feet overnight causing moderate flooding. The Flood Warning Center is now closed after area river levels continue to drop after Monday’s record rain caused moderate flooding in several communities in the Snoqualmie Valley. Motorists will encounter some road closures.

Oct. 21, 2003
King County's 'Always At Your Service' Web site wins national, local recognition
King County recently earned national and local honors for its public-service Web site, www.metrokc.gov. It was among the top five counties nationally to win the prestigious "Best of the Web" award from the Center for Digital Government. And closer to home, readers of Seattle Weekly named it the "Best .gov or .org" Web site in Seattle, as part of the newsweekly's annual "Best of Seattle" issue.

Oct. 21, 2003
King County mopping up from record rainfall
King County crews fanned out across the county today to begin mop-up efforts following Monday’s record-setting rainfall. This afternoon, the Snoqualmie River continues to rise in Carnation and Duvall due to moderate Phase Three flooding. Motorists heading out for the afternoon commute should also be prepared for flood-related detours, especially in the rain-soaked Snoqualmie Valley.

Oct. 21, 2003
Metro, Sound Transit ink deal for hybrid buses
King County Metro Transit has signed a contract to take delivery on 213 new hybrid diesel-electric buses. The order also includes another 22 hybrid buses for Sound Transit.

Oct. 21, 2003
Transit service revisions due to construction and street closures
Water over roadways is causing minor transit reroutes in King County.

Oct. 21, 2003
Flood conditions improve as Snoqualmie River shows signs of stabilizing
Flows on the Snoqualmie River are leveling off in the upper valley this morning, indicating flood conditions are showing signs of improvement after Monday's record-setting rainfall. The Tolt River crested at 9 p.m. Monday night.

Oct. 20, 2003
Wineries in rural areas match of agriculture, jobs
King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the County Council for adopting his proposal that would allow wineries to operate in the rural areas to promote tourism, agriculture and create jobs.

Oct. 20, 2003
King County issues alert for moderate flooding on the Snoqualmie River; significant flooding occurring along the Tolt
King County reports this evening that the Snoqualmie River in East King County is beginning to experience moderate flood conditions. This Phase Three Flood Alert means moderate flooding will occur in low-lying areas along the river. Meanwhile, a Phase Four Flood Alert is now in effect for the Tolt River, which means more extensive flood conditions can be expected along that river.

Oct. 20, 2003
Local projects under way to get clean rainwater out of region's sewer system
Up to 75 percent of the wastewater traveling through King County sewer lines during our heavy winter rains begins that journey as clean water. More than half that clean water enters the sewer system from private property.

Oct. 20, 2003
King County issues Phase Three Flood Alert for Tolt River
King County is advising residents that a Phase Three Flood Alert has been issued for the Tolt River located east of Carnation in the Snoqualmie Valley. The Phase Three Alert means moderate flooding will occur in low-lying areas along the river.

Oct. 17, 2003
Major King County sewer tunnel to reach daylight on south Beacon Hill
Mining for King County's 4-million-gallon wastewater storage and treatment tunnel in Rainier Beach will end Oct. 20, when it breaks through a steel-reinforced concrete wall into an open receiving shaft, 80-feet deep and 43 feet in diameter.

Oct. 16, 2003
Aquatic Center dives into resource conservation: Recycled-plastic benches and water-conserving fixtures are installed
Recent additions to the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way are helping King County conserve resources and save money.

Oct. 16, 2003
King County pilots bio-diesel project for Metro buses
King County Metro Transit is beginning a pilot project to test the use of bio-diesel fuel in its bus fleet, which could eventually reduce the agency’s reliance on fossil fuel by as much as 1.7 million gallons a year.

Oct. 15, 2003
Metro’s trolley buses make temporary power switch for next two weekends
King County Metro Transit’s electric trolley buses will temporarily switch over to diesel operation for the next two weekends – Oct. 18 & 19 and Oct. 25 & 26 – while crews activate a brand new electric substation in downtown Seattle. There should be no disruption in bus service for Metro passengers.

Oct. 14, 2003
White Center lake getting a boost from Cascade Middle School students, King County
Hicks Lake is too urbanized to be restored to a naturally functioning lake, but nearly 100 students from nearby Cascade Middle School are working to make sure the lake becomes a pleasant place for the White Center community, and for wildlife, to enjoy.

Oct. 14, 2003
Trail supporters, King County celebrate East Lake Sammamish Trail groundbreaking
King County Executive Ron Sims, regional leaders and biking enthusiasts from around the region today laid the first gravel on what will be the 11.3-mile scenic East Lake Sammamish Trail, officially breaking ground for construction of the Eastside's "gem."

Oct. 13, 2003
Annexation incentives, landfill rent for human services top Council issues in 2004 Budget
Sweetening the pot to encourage cities to annex the remaining urban unincorporated areas and paying for essential human service programs through rental fees from the Cedar Hills Landfill are two of the policy questions highlighted today by budget leaders on the Metropolitan King County Council. The members spoke after receiving the 2004 Executive Proposed Budget.

Oct. 13, 2003
Message to employees: 2004 Budget
From Executive Sims: "Today I unveiled my 2004 Executive Proposed Budget to the King County Council, and for the first time in several years, despite continuing financial constraints, I was delighted to be able to put forward a budget that will sustain county services, not contain difficult job eliminations and do it all without a general tax increase." ...more

Oct. 13, 2003
Sims presents innovative budget; Sustain services without tax increases
King County Executive Ron Sims today unveiled his proposed budget for 2004 featuring creative innovations that sustain vital services without a general tax increase.

Oct. 10, 2003
King County, Preston community to celebrate protection of key lands for Preston Vision
King County Executive Ron Sims will join residents of Preston at a square dance tonight to celebrate purchase of the last piece of land critical to completing the long dreamed-of vision of Preston as the regional gateway to the Snoqualmie Valley.

Oct. 10, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on Oct. 17
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, Oct. 17, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Oct. 10, 2003
Fourth Avenue entrance to County Courthouse to close due to seismic construction
The Fourth Avenue entrance to the King County Courthouse in downtown Seattle will be closed due to construction from Oct. 14, 2003 until Jan. 15, 2004, except for King County deliveries and emergency egress. Visitors to the County Courthouse can enter the building through the Third Avenue entrance.

Oct. 9, 2003
King County seeks volunteers for restoration projects along Snoqualmie River
Don’t miss a number of fun opportunities to join other volunteers planting native trees and shrubs along the Snoqualmie River, Oct. 18, and Nov. 1 and 15. The planting sites are next to prime spawning grounds for chum, pink, and chinook salmon (Chinook Bend), or within important habitat for cougar, bear, and elk (Three Forks Natural Area).

Oct. 8, 2003
Public comment leads to refined alternatives for Carnation wastewater plan
The Carnation City Council on Oct. 7 adopted two alternative locations for treating wastewater and three alternatives for discharging wastewater to be evaluated in an environmental impact statement.

Oct. 8, 2003
Reclaimed water for Sammamish Valley to flow from new source
King County Executive Ron Sims today recommended a reclaimed water solution for irrigation in the Sammamish Valley that will deliver more water than proposals now under consideration and save up to $20 million.

Oct. 8, 2003
King County directory provides educators a valuable resource
Teachers looking for ways to supplement their classroom lessons and activities with special presentations, grants funds, or project assistance can find a variety of programs and materials in the annual King County Programs for Educators directory now available.

Oct. 6, 2003
Elected Officials to discuss fiscal challenges at final budget forum
As the Metropolitan King County Council prepares for the presentation of the 2004 Executive Proposed Budget, Councilmembers will hear from the county’s separately elected officials on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at the Council's last public forum discussing budget priorities.

Oct. 6, 2003
Council thanks Executive's Budget Task Force
The Metropolitan King County Council today recognized Executive Ron Sims and the Budget Advisory Task Force he empanelled for their work to provide helpful strategies for addressing the county's fiscal challenges.

Oct. 7, 2003
Quiet and tireless environmental heroes honored for significant contributions
King County Executive Ron Sims today honored Ted Barnes, Joan Thomas, Northwest Women Flyfishers and the Bartell Drug Company as King County Earth Heroes for the fall of 2003. The ceremony was to honor the invaluable contributions these heroes have made in protecting and preserving King County's natural environment.

Oct. 6, 2003
Public Health recommends flu shots for everybody, especially high-risk individuals
Public Health - Seattle & King County is issuing recommendations for the 2003-4 "flu" (influenza) season. "I encourage everybody to stay healthy this flu season and receive a flu shot. Our clinics will offer flu vaccinations starting next week," said King County Executive Ron Sims.

Oct. 6, 2003
Sims announces matching grants for youth sports
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced $497,820 in matching grants to promote youth sports throughout King County. The 13 awards, ranging from $2,500 to $50,000, will support the construction and renovation of sports fields, playgrounds, a rowing facility and two gymnasiums.

Oct. 1, 2003
Irons calls for cooperation on I-90
Following Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels' threat to hold up improvements to Interstate 90, Metropolitan King County Councilmember David Irons urged the Sound Transit Board to move forward on a transportation project that stands to provide major traffic and transit improvements for the entire region.

Oct. 1, 2003
McKenna says "Let's Move" on I-90
Metropolitan King County Councilmember Rob McKenna today urged County Executive and Sound Transit Board Chair Ron Sims to expedite a Sound Transit vote adopting R8A as the preferred alternative for the I-90 Centerlane Conversion project - with or without a “yes” vote from Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels.

Oct. 1, 2003
Grant funding available for community-based salmon recovery projects on private property
The Community Salmon Fund, a partnership of King County and The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, has grant money available for salmon recovery projects up to $50,000 each.

September 2003

Sept. 30, 2003
New study shows traffic 'toolbox' reduces regional congestion
Convenient bus service, more carpool lanes, synchronized traffic signals, strategically placed tow trucks, and even those annoying freeway ramp meters have become highly effective in putting the brakes on traffic congestion, according to the annual Urban Mobility Report, one of the nation's most recognized transportation surveys.

Sept. 30, 2003
Metro mechanics crowned the 'best of the best'
Three mechanics from King County Metro Transit walked away with the top honors at an international competition held last weekend in Salt Lake City.

Sept. 30, 2003
Dedication ceremony marks completion of King County's new Regional Communications and Emergency Coordination Center
King County Executive Ron Sims, Sheriff Dave Reichert and Councilmember Larry Gossett today dedicated the new Kent Pullen Regional Communications and Emergency Coordination Center (RCECC) in Renton.

Sept. 29, 2003
Council approves bonds sale for open-space acquisition
The Metropolitan King County Council today approved the sale of Limited Tax General Obligation bonds that will be used to finance the purchase of a conservation easement within the Treemont Property located just east of the city of Sammamish.

Sept. 29, 2003
Council calls for action to protect Duwamish
The Metropolitan King County Council today joined the growing number of community groups, environmental organizations, and local governments in calling for action to save the Duwamish River.

Sept. 29, 2003
Input wanted on Metro changes in two corridors: Rainier Valley/Broadway & Ambaum/Delridge
King County Metro Transit is hosting several meetings to gather input on improving bus service in two key corridors. Metro is also gathering ideas and opinions via a comment form that is due back shortly.

Sept. 26, 2003
King County International Airport marks 75 years of aviation excellence as historic terminal reopens
King County International Airport (Boeing Field), known as the "birthplace of modern aviation," marked its 75th anniversary today with a grand re-opening of its historic terminal building.

Sept. 26, 2003
Sims to showcase success of King County Jobs Initiative
King County Executive Ron Sims tomorrow will showcase the success of the King County Jobs Initiative (KCJI), a workforce development program created to serve low income residents in South King County, during a celebration marking the program's fifth anniversary.

Sept. 26, 2003
Sheriff's Office seeks help from the public
On Wednesday, Sept. 24 at about 1:30 p.m., a luring incident occurred involving a three-year-old girl. The incident took place in the 4100 block of 244th Place Southeast in the Klahanie neighborhood on the Pine Lake plateau.

Sept. 25, 2003
County praises new state protection of Vashon/Maury Island tidelands
King County Executive Ron Sims and County Councilmember Dow Constantine today praised the state's decision to recommend inclusion of tidelands off Vashon/Maury Island as one of the first aquatic reserves in Washington State.

Sept. 25, 2003
King County Children and Family Commission recruiting members
The King County Children and Family Commission is accepting applications for five positions. The 17-member Commission is composed of citizen volunteers that represent geographic and ethnic diversity reflective of King County.

Sept. 25, 2003
Sims to host joint forum for King County Unincorporated Area Councils
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 staff, residents and members of the UACs as they discuss various issues facing their communities.

Sept. 24, 2003
Sims seeks Logan's confirmation as director of King County Records, Elections and Licensing Services Division
King County Executive Ron Sims is forwarding to the King County Council the appointment of Dean Logan as the Division Director of the King County Records, Elections and Licensing Services Division. Sims appointed Logan on Sept. 1, 2003, to serve in this capacity subject to King County Council confirmation.

Sept. 24, 2003
Record number of infant pertussis, "whooping cough," cases locally
Public Health - Seattle & King County is reporting the highest number of infant pertussis cases in over 25 years. Overall this year, there have been 189 pertussis cases to date, and 28 of these cases have been among infants less than seven months of age.

Sept. 24, 2003
County's work on East Lake Sammamish Trail upheld
The Court of Appeals for the State of Washington issued a decision upholding the validity of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the East Lake Sammamish Trail Interim Use and Resource Protection Plan. The Court affirmed a prior King County Superior Court ruling which found that the County's EIS satisfied legal requirements.

Sept. 24, 2003
Airport marks 75th Anniversary on Friday and Saturday
The King County International Airport (Boeing Field) will celebrate its 75th Anniversary by officially re-opening its newly renovated passenger terminal building on Friday, Sept. 26th at 10 a.m.

Sept. 24, 2003
Human Services Recommendations Report for 2004-2006 released
King County Executive Ron Sims today issued the Human Services Recommendations Report for 2004-2006 describing the progress and achievements of the regional human services system over the past three years, and offering recommendations for the future.

Sept. 23, 2003
Public Health issues annual report on Medic One and Emergency Medical Services
Public Health - Seattle & King County has issued the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division's 2003 Annual Report that reviews emergency medical services projects, programs and initiatives, many of which involve broad partnerships that have improved efficiencies in paramedic responses.

Sept. 23, 2003
Elliott Bay Water Taxi weekday service extended through November
King County Metro Transit is extending Elliott Bay Water Taxi service between downtown Seattle and West Seattle for commuters through the months of October and November.

Sept. 23, 2003
King County report reflects solid growth management
King County Executive Ron Sims today released the 2003 Annual Growth Report, illuminating eight years of successful growth management. The fact-filled document provides a detailed examination of the region's growth and its impact on transportation, the economy, the environment and housing.

Sept. 22, 2003
Solid Waste efficiencies will maximize value for King County ratepayers
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced planned efficiencies in the Solid Waste Division that will produce significant savings, enhance recycling service for unincorporated areas, eliminate public subsidies to private industry haulers and increase efficiency.

Sept. 19, 2003
Share your ideas for transit service changes Rainier Valley/Broadway Project
In order to gather comments and ideas from riders on how transit service in this area can be improved, Metro Transit is distributing this newsletter and comment sheet to riders on our transit mailing list, and to those who attend a public workshop or request a comment sheet.

Sept. 19, 2003
Updated King County election results released
King County today released the latest election results from the Sept. 16 Primary Election.

Sept. 19, 2003
King County on look out for Vashon Island "Salmon Watchers"
If you are a Vashon Island resident that enjoys watching salmon and has access to local streams, King County is looking for you.

Sept. 19, 2003
Sims says state revenue forecast calls for exploring options
With the release of the September state revenue forecast, King County Executive Ron Sims offered comments.

Sept. 19, 2003
Transit service to the Seattle Fall Home Show
Take Metro to the show at the Seahawks Stadium Exhibition Center, Oct. 2 - 5, 2003

Sept. 18, 2003
Voters asked to approve two-year budget cycle
As King County prepares to begin work on its 2004 budget, the Metropolitan King County Council today approved and sent to the voters a proposed amendment to the King County Charter that would give the County the option to shift to a two-year budget cycle.

Sept. 18, 2003
Taxpayers to benefit from bond sale
The Metropolitan King County Council today took advantage of lower interest rates by approving the sale of $108 million in Limited Tax General Obligation Bond Anticipation Notes to provide interim financing for several county capital improvement projects.

Sept. 18, 2003
Council seeks to reduce costs of software purchases
Keeping King County’s technical edge means constant upgrades for software and operating systems. The Metropolitan King County Council wants to save money on these often-costly upgrades by partnering with other municipalities in a purchasing alliance and encouraging software vendors to support their products for longer periods of time. The Council today unanimously approved a motion directing the executive to investigate the possibility of joining such an alliance in order to cut costs.

Sept. 18, 2003
Council approves plan to protect salmon habitat
The Metropolitan King County Council today approved a salmon habitat restoration plan for Auburn Narrows Park as part of a process to implement a 1993 agreement allowing Tacoma to build a second water pipeline from the Green River in south King County.

Sept. 18, 2003
Executive proposes initiative to fund regional health and human services programs
King County Executive Ron Sims today transmitted to Council a motion seeking support for his initiative to dedicate the solid waste Cedar Hills Landfill rental payment to health and human services programs.

Sept. 18, 2003
Major bus service changes begin Saturday, Sept. 27, 2003
King County Metro Transit will initiate significant changes to its bus network, with particular emphasis in the northend of King County and the Federal Way area.

Sept. 17, 2003
Transportation proposal focuses on moving people and projects more quickly and affordably
King County Executive Ron Sims today accepted a recommended package of needed transportation improvements from King County's Department of Transportation (KCDOT) that offers more effective and realistic options for building projects, and moving people and freight.

Sept. 16, 2003
King County to expand Wheels to Water program, transport more children on water quality field trips
An environmental education grant will allow King County to expand its ever-popular Wheels to Water program by more than 40 percent, and provide roughly 1,500 additional students with memorable water quality experiences this year.

Sept. 16, 2003
Metro’s seasonal service change targets North King County and Federal Way
King County Metro Transit is gearing up for a major service change starting Saturday, Sept. 27. This particular service change focuses mostly on North King County and Federal Way - with some revisions to service in other areas.

Sept. 15, 2003
Community event stresses taking loved one to doctor, bridging health disparities
Tomorrow, during "Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day," Public Health - Seattle & King County, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and First A.M.E. Child & Family Center are sponsoring a community health fair to promote disease prevention and highlight the need to continue to close the gap on health disparities in Seattle and King County.

Sept. 15, 2003
Public Health restaurant inspection Web pages surpass one million hits
Launched just two years ago, Public Health - Seattle & King County's restaurant inspection webpages have already been visited over 1.1 million times, ranking it in the top ten of all sites at Public Health.

Sept. 12, 2003
King County earns best debt ratings - again
Executive Ron Sims announced today that King County has again earned best debt ratings. Moody's Investors Service will continue its MIG1 rating for financing a portion of the County's debt, which will save King County taxpayers over the life of the debt.

Sept. 12, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on Sept. 19
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, Sept. 19, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sept. 11, 2003
Proposed partnership to improve traffic flow on major South King County arterials
King County Executive Ron Sims today transmitted a request to the King County Council calling for approval of an agreement that will bring significant signal and technology improvements along busy Auburn Way South and South 277th Street in South King County.

Sept. 11, 2003
King County to make final payment on West Point settlement
King County has now met all requirements related to sewage solids handling as part of a settlement agreement crucial to upgrading West Point Wastewater Treatment Plant in order to provide better environmental protection of Puget Sound.

Sept. 10, 2003
Cleanup of contaminated sediment to begin in Lower Duwamish
To protect water quality and fish, the agencies and tribes managing the Elliott Bay/Duwamish Restoration Program plan to dredge an area of contaminated river sediment and dispose of the sediment at an approved landfill in Klickitat County.

Sept. 10, 2003
King County Parks update
The second quarter report issued Sept. 4, clearly demonstrates that the changes employees implemented to do business differently are already paying off in major ways. Higher than expected attendance at parks, a successful summer concert series and plans for a golf driving range at Marymoor Park are some of the successes parks employees accomplished this summer.

Sept. 5, 2003
Return of wet weather prompts words of caution to drivers
The King County Road Services Division is advising motorists that the first threat of rain in nearly a month may cause very hazardous driving conditions when the more fall-like weather moves in as predicted this weekend.

Sept. 5, 2003
Fall parking passes on sale now for Marymoor Park
Fall parking passes for King County’s Marymoor Park near Redmond are now on sale for $33 and are good through the end of 2003.

Sept. 4, 2003
King County Parks issues positive progress report
King County Parks' second quarter report issued today clearly demonstrates that the changes employees implemented to do business differently are already paying off in major ways. Higher than expected attendance at parks, a successful summer concert series and plans for a golf driving range at Marymoor Park are some of the successes parks employees accomplished this summer.

Sept. 4, 2003
Celebration marks preservation of Branch Villa/Leon Sullivan Care Center
Members of the Seattle Central Area community joined King County Executive Ron Sims in a celebration today to mark the preservation of the Branch Villa Health Care Center.

Sept. 4, 2003
King County Explorer Search and Rescue seeks new members
King County Explorer Search and Rescue is seeking motivated individuals to attend its basic training program.

Sept. 3, 2003
U.S. Senate panel earmarks $8.5 million for King County transportation improvements
The U.S. Senate Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee today approved an $8.5 million allocation to support the purchase of new King County Metro Transit hybrid electric buses, countywide signal synchronization and the replacement of the South Park Bridge.

Sept. 3, 2003
Bids sought on East Lake Sammamish Trail
King County today invited contractors to submit bids for construction of the first phase of the East Lake Sammamish Trail. King County Executive Ron Sims expressed elation that sections of the trail in the cities of Redmond and Issaquah will be completed this year.

Sept. 2, 2003
Contractor acknowledges elections error
A Renton area precinct with 98 voters had its primary election ballots stuffed with incorrect ballots this week as a result of a coding error by Deibold, a private agency that contracts with King County.

Sept. 2, 2003
Hague & McKenna call for elected auditor to supervise county elections
Noting the latest in a series of mistakes involving King County absentee ballots, County Councilmembers Jane Hague and Rob McKenna today called for the creation of an elected county auditor to be responsible for the supervision of elections in King County.

Sept. 2, 2003
Council confirms final appointment to citizens’ Election Oversight Committee
Two weeks before county voters cast their ballots in the September primary election, the Metropolitan King County Council today confirmed the final member of the citizens’ panel that will monitor and make recommendations on improving the County’s election process.

Sept. 2, 2003
Metro opens holes in traffic for Husky football fans
Starting this Saturday, Sept. 6, football fans can eliminate driving and parking hassles to and from Husky Stadium by riding the bus. The ride is free on any Metro bus, and on Sound Transit's Route 550, when you show your game ticket or ticket stub to the bus driver.

Aug. 29, 2003
Poll workers sought for Primary and General Elections
King County Elections is currently seeking people to serve as election officials for the Tuesday, Sept. 16 Primary and Special Elections and the Tuesday, Nov. 4 General Election.

Aug. 28, 2003
North Fork Bridge to reopen
The King County Road Services Division will reopen one lane of the North Fork Bridge on 428th Avenue Southeast over the North Fork of the Snoqualmie River at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 3.

Aug. 28, 2003
Month-long detour scheduled for Northeast 124th Street
A section of Northeast 124th Street, north of Redmond, will be closed for a month beginning at 7 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 2. The road will be closed to through traffic between Willows Road and State Route 202 (Redmond-Woodinville Road).

Aug. 27, 2003
Absentee ballots mailed for Primary Election
King County Elections announced that absentee and vote-by-mail ballots were delivered to the Post Office for mailing on Wednesday, Aug. 27. Approximately 468,000 ballots were prepared for the Sept. 16 Primary and Special Elections. Following new procedures implemented for the spring elections, absentee ballots were mailed in one batch.

Aug. 27, 2003
King County Fire Marshal urges caution during summer months
While King County has enjoyed a long, warm summer, this weather pattern creates a severe fire hazard. Everyone needs to be extremely careful not to cause outdoor fires, especially around dry vegetation. Grass, brush and trees are extremely susceptible to fire because of the lack of rain and consistently warm temperatures.

Aug. 25, 2003
Council encourages affordable housing by allowing developers more time to obtain approvals
The construction of living-wage housing in King County received a boost today with the Metropolitan King County Council's unanimous approval of a measure extending the time allowed to developers of affordable housing to obtain their necessary permits.

Aug. 25, 2003
Council approves budget flexibility for major maintenance
Major maintenance projects at publicly-owned county facilities will get off the drawing board and implemented more quickly with today’s unanimous approval by the Metropolitan King County Council of "flexible response budgeting" for building maintenance.

August 2003

Aug. 25, 2003
Budget forum to focus on capital projects
The rebuilding and upgrading of vital public facilities will be the focus Wednesday, Aug. 27 as the Metropolitan King County Council holds the third of its four public forums discussing budget priorities.

Aug. 25, 2003
Generous transit passengers donate a ‘busful’ of school supplies for at-risk children
Over the past three weeks, transit passengers from across King County donated enough school supplies to fill an entire 30-foot Metro bus. Today, that bus was unstuffed so the supplies could be distributed to children served by the state Department of Social and Health Services – just in time for the new school year.

Aug. 25, 2003
Paramedic services move closer to Enumclaw
Beginning Tuesday, Aug. 26, due to the move of a Medic One unit, paramedic services to Enumclaw and the southeast King County region will be both closer and faster. The average response time to a life-threatening emergency will be shortened to between five and seven minutes, thereby improving the patient's chances for survival.

Aug. 25, 2003
Transit Service to Cougar Football game Seahawks Stadium Aug. 30, 2003
For only $3.00 each way, eliminate driving and parking hassles on the trip to and from Seahawks Stadium. See the links below for complete information about transit service to and from the game and service affected by post-game traffic.

Aug. 25, 2003
Transit Service to Bumbershoot at the Seattle Center Aug. 29 - Sept. 1, 2003
Please ride regular Metro bus service to Bumbershoot on Friday, Aug. 29.

Metro operates a Sunday schedule on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2.

Aug. 25, 2003
Labor Day Transit & Customer Services Monday, Sept. 1, 2003

Aug. 22, 2003
New program offers Bellevue employers rewards for encouraging smart commuting
King County Metro Transit, the City of Bellevue, Sound Transit, and the Washington State Department of Transportation (all external links) have established a unique demonstration program for Bellevue employers designed to reduce drive-alone car trips around Bellevue’s downtown core.

Aug. 22, 2003
Getting to Yes with DDES Workshop: Recent Changes to the Permit Process
The King County Department of Development and Environmental Services (DDES) and the Master Builders Association are offering this workshop for professionals in the building and development industry who work in unincorporated King County. The primary purpose of the workshop is for County staff to share information on recent changes to the DDES permit process and fee system. Information will also be shared on the financial guarantee (bonding) process, recent legislative changes, and new trends in Low Impact Development. Finally, DDES staff will discuss issues associated with the 2004 Comprehensive Plan update. King County Executive Ron Sims will be on hand for an early morning continental breakfast.

Aug. 21, 2003
Transportation Director Harold Taniguchi’s remarks to the Regional Transportation Investment District Board
"... We are concerned that the process, as it has played out so far, is leading us toward stalemate and not toward a viable package that provides realistic solutions to transportation problems."

Aug. 20, 2003
Two-week extension possible for commenting on proposed Carnation wastewater treatment facilities
Responding to public requests, King County is providing an opportunity for individuals to request a two-week extension in commenting on the scope of the environmental impact statement for proposed Carnation wastewater treatment facilities.

Aug. 20, 2003
Road, bridge closure scheduled for Carnation area
Starting the week of Aug. 25, the King County Road Services Division will begin two projects that will affect traffic in areas west of Carnation.

Aug. 20, 2003
King County and Tacoma Water partnership will restore crucial habitat along Green River
Water for people, new habitat and environmental protections for fish and wildlife, and a new place for people to enjoy the out of doors are the result of a partnership announced today by King County Executive Ron Sims and Tacoma Water.

Aug. 20, 2003
Teachers' group recommends environmental education center for Brightwater wastewater treatment plant
A task force of teachers described its vision today of "an environmental education facility that processes wastewater." The teachers recommended that vision in a report to local officials planning and considering the Brightwater wastewater treatment plant.

Aug. 19, 2003
Sheriff’s Office provides voluntary lock boxes for deputies
King County Sheriff Dave Reichert and Metropolitan King County Council members Larry Gossett and Kathy Lambert today announced the first distribution of firearms lock boxes to Sheriff’s deputies.

Aug. 18, 2003
Master the art of recycling and composting, then share your knowledge with others
Wondering what you can do to help preserve our environment? You can start in your own kitchen and backyard.

Aug. 15, 2003
Tunnel rescue training Saturday at Rainier Beach sewer project
The Seattle Fire Department will hold a tunnel rescue drill Saturday afternoon, Aug. 16, in Rainier Beach at a construction site for the King County Wastewater Treatment Division's Henderson/M.L. King CSO Project.

Aug. 11, 2003
Register to vote now for Sept. 16 Primary Election
Are you new to King County or have you moved since you last voted? King County Elections reminds would-be voters that new voter registrations must be postmarked by Aug. 16 in order to be eligible to vote in the Sept. 16 Primary Election.

Aug. 11, 2003
Creating commuter trip plans
Commuter trip plans are a series of trip plans between two points, such as between your home and your work place. When you create commuter trip plans, you receive a set of trips that arrive at approximately 15-minute intervals before and after the arrive time you enter, and a second set of return trips departing at approximately 15-minute intervals before and after the leave time you enter.

Aug. 11, 2003
King County Courthouse Seismic Project reaches midpoint milestone
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that the Courthouse Seismic Project is marking a major milestone by reaching midpoint of the project and is on schedule to be completed Aug. 14, 2004.

Aug. 8, 2003
King County Deferred Compensation Plan Investment Policy honored with national award
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that the King County Deferred Compensation Plan's Investment Policy will receive a 2003 Leadership Recognition Award from the National Association of Government Deferred Compensation Administrators. The award recognizes exceptional achievements in effective communication or plan design and administration in defined contribution/deferred compensation.

Aug. 8, 2003
Speed limit changes proposed for roads in east and south King County
The King County Department of Transportation is proposing to change speed limits in four locations in east and south King County.

Aug. 8, 2003
Wastewater treatment utility earns national awards for environmental protection, communications
King County's Wastewater Treatment Division has earned three national awards for excellence and outstanding performance from the Association of Metropolitan Sewerage Agencies.

Aug. 7, 2003
Temporary bus stop closures will affect Metro routes 209 and 214 in Issaquah
King County Metro Transit will temporarily close several Issaquah-area bus stops due to construction related to the new Sunset Interchange on Interstate 90. The bus stop closures will be effective with the start of service Friday, Aug. 8 through the end of service Friday, Aug. 29.

Aug. 6, 2003
Best play on game day - take the bus
Seattle Seahawks football fans hope to see many big scoring drives this season, but when it comes to driving to games, the smart play is to let King County Metro Transit do the driving.

Aug. 5, 2003
King County on course to deliver record for road construction
This warm summer may make you sweat, may wilt your flowers, but it is also saving taxpayers money as construction is accelerated on road projects across King County.

Aug. 5, 2003
Master the art of recycling and composting, then share your knowledge with others
Wondering what you can do to help preserve our environment? You can start in your own kitchen and backyard. Sign up for King County's Master Recycler Composter program and learn how to protect the environment by reducing the amount of garbage generated and recycling whenever possible. In return for the training, program participants share their knowledge and skills with others by volunteering at least 40 hours in the community. Participants in the seven-week program receive approximately 40 hours of tuition-free training about waste prevention, recycling, home composting and alternatives to household hazardous waste.

Aug. 5, 2003
Public Health, Shoreline and Kenmore publish walking maps to promote physical activity
The City of Shoreline, the City of Kenmore and Public Health - Seattle & King County have joined in releasing the first walking maps of Shoreline and Kenmore, highlighting city parks, open spaces and walking routes that are easy and safe to walk.

Aug. 4, 2003
Immunize now for the 2003-4 school year Today, during National Immunization Awareness Month, Public Health - Seattle & King County is calling on families in all of King County to get prepared for the new school year by making sure all children's immunizations are up to date.

Aug. 1, 2003
Pelz calls proposed sex offender site “greatest risk to greatest number”
Metropolitan King County Councilmember Dwight Pelz today sharply criticized the proposal by the state Department of Social and Health Services to site the state’s Secure Community Transition Facility (SCTF) two miles south of Downtown Seattle.

Aug. 1, 2003
Constantine says potential site for sex offender house gives predators access to “all of Seattle”
Metropolitan King County Councilmember Dow Constantine today said the proposal by the state Department of Social and Health Services to site the state’s Secure Community Transition Facility (SCTF) in the middle of the region’s largest city puts the maximum number of people at risk.

Aug. 1, 2003
Regional officials seek restoration of sales tax deduction
A coalition of local and regional officials today called on the federal government to restore an IRS tax deduction that would allow residents of Washington and six other states to deduct the state sales tax as part of their federal tax return.

Aug. 1, 2003
Patterson and von Reichbauer urge DSHS to right the wrong
King County Councilmembers Julia Patterson and Pete von Reichbauer today requested the state Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) seek to correct the recent legal oversight that has led to the arbitrary elimination of the Grouse Ridge site for a Secure Community Transition Facility and stripped the state’s process of fairness.

August 1, 2003
Help Metro plan future transit service for the Delridge-Ambaum corridor
King County Metro Transit is looking for people to share and review ideas on how to improve transit service along the Delridge-Ambaum corridor in the Southwest Seattle and nearby communities.

July 2003

July 31, 2003
Sims names new head of Elections
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced the appointment of Dean Logan as the Director of the King County Records, Elections and Licensing Services Division. Logan will begin on Sept. 1.

July 31, 2003
Final public seminar Aug. 16 on science, engineering for Brightwater treatment plant, pipeline system
Scientists, engineers and other experts will present more new technical information on the proposed Brightwater wastewater facilities at a public seminar Saturday, Aug. 16, in Bothell. They will discuss design and construction, geology, groundwater, streams and wetland protection, and traffic impacts.

July 31, 2003
Breastfeeding is healthiest option, reduces overweight and obesity for mother and child
During World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) and beyond, Public Health - Seattle & King County is stressing the overwhelming benefits of breastfeeding. "Breastfeeding provides the optimal form of nutrition for babies, while fostering a very special parent-child relationship. It is a simple yet very effective way to build healthier communities," said King County Executive Ron Sims.

July 31, 2003
I-90 closure schedule
The Washington State Dept. of Transportation will close all lanes of Interstate 90 across Lake Washington several times between Thursday, July 31, and Sunday, Aug. 3, to accommodate the Blue Angels air show practices and performances. The closures include all mainline I-90 lanes between Interstate 5 in Seattle and Island Crest Way on Mercer Island, and the entire length of the I-90 center roadway.

July 30, 2003
Scoping meeting set August 6 for Carnation wastewater treatment plant
Four alternative systems for treating and discharging Carnation's wastewater will be explored as King County and the City of Carnation host a public environmental scoping meeting August 6, 6:30 p.m., at Carnation Elementary School, 4950 Tolt Avenue.

July 30, 2003
Lifesaving automated external defibrillators being installed at ten Public Health centers
Today, King County Executive Ron Sims joined with Public Health - Seattle & King County in announcing the installation of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) at ten Public Health Centers. AEDs can be used by trained staff and untrained persons to restore a normal heart rhythm in someone who has suffered a sudden cardiac arrest.

July 29, 2003
Message from Executive Sims to employees
Dear King County Employees:

As you know, this morning I declared myself a candidate for governor of the state of Washington. While I am excited to bring the same kind of energy to the state that you have all experienced in working with me at King County, I want you to be assured my focus remains on the work we have before us here.

July 29, 2003
Hylebos Creek habitat restoration effort gets good news from King County
King County expects to close a deal in August to acquire an additional 33 acres of open space along Federal Way's Hylebos Creek. The acquisition is considered vital to the success Hylebos Critical Habitat project, which hopes to re-establish naturally functioning conditions that support salmon and other native species in the creek.

July 29, 2003
Stuff a Bus with school supplies: Change a child's life - give the Tools to learn
Every year, children in King County go back to school without the basic supplies that most kids take for granted - things like pencils, paper and backpacks. This year, employees from King County Metro Transit and Sound Transit are asking their passengers to help them stuff a bus full of supplies to be donated to local at-risk children.

July 28, 2003
Council acts to upgrade King County election system
The Metropolitan King County Council today appropriated $1,267,237 toward improving the operation of the county’s Records, Elections and Licensing Services Division.

July 28, 2003
Council confirms appointments to Citizens’ Election Oversight Committee
The first members of the citizens’ panel that will monitor King County’s election process are now on board. The Metropolitan King County Council today confirmed the appointment of twelve members of the King County Citizens’ Elections Oversight Committee.

July 28, 2003
Hammond objects to budget subsidy argument
Metropolitan King County Councilmember Steve Hammond today challenged assertions and conclusions contained in an advisory committee’s report which claimed residents of rural and unincorporated King County are subsidized by city residents and which recommended that a new utility tax be imposed.

July 28, 2003
Council renames Regional Communications and Emergency Coordination Center in honor of Kent Pullen
The Metropolitan King County Council today voted unanimously to honor the legacy of former Councilmember Kent Pullen by renaming the County’s Regional Communication and Emergency Coordination Center (RCECC) in his honor.

July 28, 2003
Implementation of energy initiative starts with landfill contract
Moving forward in implementing the energy policy passed earlier this year, the Metropolitan King County Council today authorized the executive to enter into contracts with Energy Development Inc. (EDI) to turn “waste” into electricity. EDI is the Houston-based company chosen to develop and operate the Cedar Hills landfill gas-to-energy project.

July 25, 2003
Sims to name new building after late County Director
Executive Ron Sims today announced that a new King County facility currently under construction at 401 Broadway in Seattle will be named the "Patricia Bracelin Steel Memorial Building" in honor of the late Deputy County Executive.

July 24, 2003
Volunteer naturalists sought for Cedar River Salmon Journey
Sign up to be a volunteer naturalist on the Cedar River this fall. Naturalists will receive training from fish and watershed experts and, in return, spend three weekend days making riverside presentations to the public about the Cedar River and its sockeye salmon run.

July 24, 2003
KCIA celebrates 75th Anniversary
King County International Airport/Boeing Field celebrates its 75th Anniversary on July 26. To mark the occasion, the Museum of Flight will host a "Happy Birthday, Boeing Field" celebration on July 26 and 27 during its weekend Family Fun Workshops.

July 24, 2003
Metro buses return to 'The Ave' in the U-District
With reconstruction of University Way Northeast in Seattle nearing completion, King County Metro Transit buses will return to regular routing in the U-District after a year-long detour.

July 24, 2003
Torchlight Transit Service Saturday July 26, 2003
Torchlight events reroutes July 25 - 28
The first two reroutes shown are for Grandstand assembly/breakdown, the rest are for the 8K Run & Torchlight Parade (more to follow)

July 24, 2003
King County Housing Authority Board of Commissioners seeks new Resident Commissioner
Are you a person who is "directly assisted" by the King County Housing Authority? "Directly assisted" means the person must be a resident in public housing or be receiving Section 8 tenant based assistance. If so, the King County Housing Authority Board of Commissioners needs you.

July 24, 2003
King County Parks update
Dear King County Parks supporter: Please help us shape the future of our parks by joining King County's Parks Division for public meetings and/or filling out an online survey. The levy was one part of the solution, but we need your valuable input to help us continue our transition to a new way of doing business.

July 21, 2003
Tolt Bridge to close for bridge deck repairs
The Tolt Bridge on Tolt Hill Road, west of Carnation, will be closed from Tuesday, July 22 at 7 a.m. to Saturday, July 26 at 5 p.m.

July 21, 2003
Seahawks Transit Service 2003
Starting August 9th, the Seattle Seahawks once again have King County Metro Transit on their team. For only $3.00 each way, eliminate driving and parking hassles on trips to and from Seahawks Stadium. See the links below for complete information about transit service to and from Seahawks games and service affected by post-game traffic.

July 21, 2003
King County Executive Ron Sims statement regarding Governor Locke's announcement
"Governor Gary Locke has served this state well during three decades - in the Legislature, as my predecessor in King County and most recently as governor. We are a better state for his personal and professional commitment. "I fully understand what a difficult job Gary has had running the state, judging from the challenges we face day to day running the state's second largest government.

July 18, 2003
Helicopter work to improve habitat, stabilize channel in May Creek Canyon set for Monday
A heavy-lift helicopter will place roughly 100 logs in May Creek Canyon on Monday as King County and the Cities of Renton and Newcastle work to enhance stream habitat and stabilize the stream channel against erosion.

July 18, 2003
Cow calling and log rolling among best weekend bets for King County Fair
The family fun keeps on rolling at the King County Fair in Enumclaw this weekend, with a Logger Rodeo, Cow Calling Contest, Cowpie Bingo, Outdoor Concerts and a Professional Rodeo topping the fair's must-see list. The 141st annual King County Fair continues through Sunday, July 20.

July 18, 2003
King of the Dill: 4-year-old claims pickle costume victory at King County Fair
At four years old, Nathan Craven was understated in characterizing his 2003 King Pickle victory Friday, July 18, at the King County Fair in Enumclaw. Describing his sunglasses-on-pickle-mask costume, Craven said: "I am a dill pickle."

July 18, 2003
Employee news
The following is a listing of upcoming events and programs for King County employees. While the HUM has closed shop, plans are under way for a new employee e-newsletter that includes benefits information, training and other opportunities and news for employees.

July 18, 2003
Bike helmets now the rule in Seattle
The King County Board of Health voted unanimously to amend the King County bike helmet regulation to include Seattle. The new rule will go into effect on August 17, 2003. After that date, bicyclists in Seattle cited for violating the bike helmet regulation could receive a $30 fine.

July 17, 2003
Tolt Bridge to close for bridge deck repairs
The Tolt Bridge on Tolt Hill Road, west of Carnation, will be closed from Tuesday, July 22 at 7 a.m. to Saturday, July 26 at 5 p.m.

July 17, 2003
A King County Fair promotion to relish: Get in free dressed as a pickle!
Getting "in a pickle" is a good thing Friday at the King County Fair in Enumclaw. Fairgoers dressed as a pickle receive free admission to the 141st annual King County Fair on Friday, July 18, between 10 a.m. and noon.

July 17, 2003
King County explores 'Manure Power' to support dairy farmers and boost air and water quality
King County Executive Ron Sims said today that developing a system to convert methane gas from cow manure into electricity would give dairy farmers, along with regional air and water quality, a much-needed break.

July 16, 2003
Jeffrey the Sheep crowned King County Fair's Royal Critter
Animals from throughout King County put on their Wednesday best to compete for the Royal Critter Crown at today's official opening of the King County Fair. A guinea pig wearing a cowboy hat, a horse with a glistening coat and a pigeon atop his owner's head were among those vying to be crowned the official 2003 fair mascot.

July 16, 2003
King County joins homeland security partnership with Pierce and Snohomish counties
The three regional counties of King, Pierce and Snohomish, recognizing the need for collaboration in homeland security and emergency preparedness, have mutually agreed to an interlocal agreement. The partnership under this agreement reflects the need and commitment as a tri-county region to plan and deliver homeland security and emergency management “all hazards” programs benefiting the citizens through more effective use of resources.

July 16, 2003
$3.46 million awarded for affordable housing
King County has awarded $3.46 million in low-income housing grants and loans to eight housing projects that will create or preserve 253 affordable housing units, King County Executive Ron Sims announced today. The housing ranges from affordable rental housing for families, individuals and people with special services needs, to transitional housing for homeless families and youth, to home ownership opportunities for first-time buyers.

July 15, 2003
McKenna Applauds I-90 Design Recommendation
Metropolitan King County Councilmember Rob McKenna praised today’s recommendation by Sound Transit’s I-90 Steering Committee to add two HOV lanes onto Interstate-90 between Bellevue and Seattle as the right move to meet the needs of the region’s commuters.

July 15, 2003
Go live to reconnect with items lost on Metro buses
Metro is offering a new service to help reunite passengers with items lost on the bus. “Live Help Online,” is an online chat service that allows Metro customers to connect with Lost & Found staff in real time.

July 15, 2003
White Center Park Teen Program Sports Mural Project unveiled July 22 at White Center Park
The community is invited to White Center Park , at 1321 SW 102nd, Seattle, for the unveiling of the Cultural Development Authority sponsored, "Sports in White Center" Mural onTuesday, July 22, at 6 p.m.

July 15, 2003
Sims recommends preliminary alternative for I-90; Calls for the development of high capacity transit
King County Executive Ron Sims today joined with several other leaders in supporting "R8-A" as the preliminary preferred alternative for the Interstate 90 two-way transit/HOV project, calling for High Capacity Transit (HCT) in the center lanes as the ultimate configuration for I-90. He added that it was time to begin the planning process for conversion of the center roadway to two-way HCT operation.

July 14, 2003
Council authorizes purchase of Fisher flour mill
The Metropolitan King County Council today approved an appropriation of $8.6 million for the purchase of the former Fisher Flour Mill site on Seattle’s Harbor Island, with an eye towards turning the property into a solid waste intermodal transportation site.

July 14, 2003
Council supports two-way transit and carpools for center lane of Interstate-90
The Metropolitan King County Council today urged a Sound Transit advisory committee to adopt a plan that would convert the center roadway on Interstate-90 between Mercer Island and Seattle to a two-way facility solely transit and carpools, a plan known as “Alternative R-2B.”

July 14, 2003
Critter Crowning to kick-off King County fair
Move over Huskies. Step aside Seahawks. There is a new mascot coming to town. Lenard the guinea pig, Tater Tot the Pigeon and twin goats owned by twin women are among the 13 critter finalists competing to be crowned the official mascot of the King County Fair. The Critter Crowning will take place at high noon on Wednesday, July 16 on the main stage at the King County Fairgrounds in Enumclaw. The winner will replace Dulce de Leche, a Nubian goat, who in 2002 was deemed by judges to best exemplify the spirit of the fair.

July 14, 2003
Citizens to monitor elections
King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the County Council for a vote pivotal to building long-term rate protection for King County Solid Waste customers. The Council approved purchase of 12 acres on Harbor Island that could be an integral component of King County's long-term vision for ensuring competition for hauling more than one million tons of solid waste per year when Cedar Hills Landfill closes.

July 14, 2003
Council approves plan to reduce odors at wastewater treatment facilities
The Metropolitan King County Council today approved a series of steps designed to prevent and reduce the odors that may be emitted from King County’s wastewater treatment facilities.

July 14, 2003
Open space at Treemont
King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the County Council for a vote pivotal to building long-term rate protection for King County Solid Waste customers. The Council approved purchase of 12 acres on Harbor Island that could be an integral component of King County's long-term vision for ensuring competition for hauling more than one million tons of solid waste per year when Cedar Hills Landfill closes.

July 14, 2003
Sims praises Council vote for Harbor Island site
King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the County Council for a vote pivotal to building long-term rate protection for King County Solid Waste customers. The Council approved purchase of 12 acres on Harbor Island that could be an integral component of King County's long-term vision for ensuring competition for hauling more than one million tons of solid waste per year when Cedar Hills Landfill closes.

July 14, 2003
Public Health announces availability of HIV Prevention Funds for 2004 and 2005
Seattle & King County announces the availability of $3.4 million in HIV/AIDS Prevention/Education funding. All agencies interested in receiving Prevention/Education funds through Public Health must participate in this competitive application process which will result in allocation of Prevention/Education funds from January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2005.

July 11, 2003
Work Training Program to receive transportation grant to link housing, employment services
King County Work Training Program will receive a $50,000 grant from the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) to develop and coordinate transportation linkages between housing sites and employment services at two locations in King County.

July 11, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on July 18
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, July 18th, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

July 11, 2003
Bellevue Arts Festival Transit service
Lots of regular Metro and Sound Transit service travels to downtown Bellevue. (See the Bellevue service area map) (94Kb). (Press the back button on your browser to return to this page.) Not all service operates at all times. Check the schedule and route map for your bus to be sure it serves your needs.

July 11, 2003
Vashon Island Strawberry Festival Transit Info
There are no special Metro Transit shuttles or extra service scheduled for this event. See information about regular service below. Not all routes operate at all times. Please check the route map and timetable for your bus route to be sure of your service both to and from this event. Regular fares apply.

July 10, 2003
King County hosts meeting on Meadowbrook Bridge project
The King County Road Services Division will host an open-house meeting to update the community on plans to rehabilitate the Meadowbrook Bridge. The 82-year-old bridge spans the Snoqualmie River on Meadowbrook Way at the north edge of the city of Snoqulamie.

July 10, 2003
Sims commends council committee for endorsing odor prevention policy for wastewater treatment
King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the County Council's Regional Water Quality Committee for endorsing his proposed odor prevention policy for wastewater treatment facilities. The recommended ordinance now goes to the full council for consideration.

July 9, 2003
General Budget Advisory Task Force recommendations
Dear King County employees:

The budget advisory task force I created last fall recently issued its set of recommendations at its final meeting. Co-chaired by Bob Wallace, a Eastside businessman and former chair of the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce, and John Warner, a retired Boeing executive, this group of 13 citizens included former governors Booth Gardner and John Spellman, two retired judges, a former labor representative and several business people from both the for-profit and non-profit sectors. I asked them to come in and take a look at our budget, our operations, the regulations that guide us, our mandates, existing laws and anything else that affects and has an impact on our budget in hopes of getting a clean look and a fresh approach to keeping King County on strong financial legs.

July 9, 2003
New dental grant expands services to infants and toddlers in King County
KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - The King County Health Action Plan received a grant for $84,580 from the Washington Dental Service Foundation to start an Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) program in King County. ABCD focuses on preventive and restorative dental care for low-income children by educating families on the importance of baby teeth and routine dental care and training dentists to see young children.

July 9, 2003
Message to Employees: EEO/AA Advisory Committee
Dear King County employees: Diversity and equal opportunities for all employees are essential elements in keeping King County a viable and productive government organization. One way in which the county accomplishes this goal is through the activities of the EEO/AA Advisory Committee.

July 8, 2003
Intimate setting, extra entertainment boost value of King County Fair concert ticket
The King County Fair in Enumclaw not only features great music - including such big name country acts as Jo Dee Messina - it offers a pleasant alternative to the expensive, less-than-cozy, mega-shows now prevailing on the Puget Sound summer music scene.

July 7, 2003
Sims to sign contract converting landfill gas to electricity
King County Executive Ron Sims announced today that a partner has been found to work with the county in its efforts to convert solid waste into energy.

July 3, 2003
Local agencies studying cause of small sewer leak in east Kent
King County and the Soos Creek Sewer District are working to determine the cause of a small leak of wastewater Thursday through a manhole cover in a fairway of the Lake Meridian Golf and Country Club.

July 2, 2003
North Fork Bridge closing for repairs
The North Fork Bridge on 428th Avenue Southeast, over the Snoqualmie River, will be closed for approximately eight weeks beginning Monday, July 7 at 7 a.m.

July 2, 2003
Pets and 4th of July fireworks don’t mix Tips for keeping pets safe
King County Animal Control would like to remind pet owners that their furry friends and Fourth of July fireworks don’t mix. Many pets are fearful of the noise created by fireworks, which is why more runaway pets are received by animal shelters around the Fourth of July than any other time of the year.

July 2, 2003
County helps obtain no-interest loan for new Vashon wastewater treatment facilities
King County Executive Ron Sims announced today that the county's work with the Vashon Sewer District to secure funds to finance wastewater facilities on the island led to an offer of a no-interest, 20-year loan. The state Department of Ecology plans to loan more than $2.1 million to refinance part of the cost of building wastewater facilities at Beulah Park/Cove and Bunker Trail on the island.

July 1, 2003
King County Fire Marshal urges caution during summer months
The King County Fire Marshal's Office recommends following safety practices during hot summer months when the fire danger is particularly high for the following: fireworks, outdoor cooking, landscaping, burning, trimming, keeping access routes clear, and more.

July 1, 2003
Public seminar July 19 on science, engineering for Brightwater treatment plant, pipeline system
Treatment plant design, technology innovations, odor prevention, pipeline route revisions, tunnel construction and other technical topics will be discussed during a public seminar on the proposed Brightwater wastewater facilities Saturday, July 19, in Bothell.

June 2003

June 30, 2003
Fourth of July holiday kicks off a month of special bus service
The month of July is filled with summertime fun, and King County Metro Transit will be there to take passengers along for the ride. Metro’s regular routes are a convenient way to beat the crowds to big events, but sometime special occasions do require special service. Here’s a look at what’s "special" about July.

June 30, 2003
Spike in pertussis, "whooping cough," cases in King County
Seattle & King County is reporting a marked increase in pertussis, also known as whooping cough, among children, including highly susceptible infants. So far this year the department has investigated more than three times as many cases among children under 18 years of age than last year. Especially worrisome are 17 King County infants reported with pertussis in 2003; of these cases, ten required hospitalization for up to 15 days.

June 30, 2003
King County and Seattle partner to save money
King County and the City of Seattle joined forces to save an estimated $1 million over the next three years for cellular phone service, Executive Ron Sims and Mayor Greg Nickels (external link) announced today.

June 27, 2003
Metro bus passes now on sale at QFC
"King County is delighted to welcome QFC as our newest retail partner for bus pass sales," said County Executive Ron Sims. "Bartell Drugs has been our partner for years. Now, with the addition of QFC, we’ve got almost every city and neighborhood in King County covered with convenient locations for bus pass and ticketbook purchases."

June 26, 2003
Sims to kick-off King County’s 8th Annual Pet Adoptathon and encourage spay/neuter
King County Executive Ron Sims will join Pasado’s Safe Haven on Friday, June 27 at 10:30 a.m. at the Kent Animal Shelter for a preview of King County’s Pet Adoptathon activities.

June 26, 2003
Independence Day transit & customer services
Transit and other commuter services, Metro fares and facility closures for Friday, July 4, 2003.

June 25, 2003
Take the test, take control: National HIV Testing Day is June 27
National HIV Testing Day is set for Friday, June 27, 2003, and at a time when local HIV infection rates are increasing in some groups, Public Health - Seattle & King County is urging testing for everyone at risk for infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

June 25, 2003
King County, General Budget Advisory Task Force releases recommendations
The King County General Government Budget Advisory Task Force, appointed by Executive Ron Sims, today unveiled a series of recommendations to the Executive for addressing the County’s long-term budget challenges. The Task Force concluded that there is a fiscal crisis for King County general government services, and that without both fundamental restructuring of the way services are delivered and new revenues, the public will see more service cuts every year in the future.

June 24, 2003
King County offers free candidate workshop on Saturday, July 12
King County Elections announced today that they will offer a free Candidate Workshop on Saturday, July 12, 2003. The workshop provides information to prospective candidates and covers filing procedures, public disclosure requirements, local reporting requirements, voter pamphlet information, maps and data list requests and other elections and candidate-related requirements.

June 24, 2003
Meeting previews plans for 124th Avenue NE in Kirkland
The city of Kirkland will host a meeting for the King County Road Services Division to preview its plans for safety improvements on 124th Avenue Northeast.

June 23, 2003
Cowpie Bingo aims to help region get in moo’d for King County Fair
The upcoming King County Fair in Enumclaw will bring a heap of country living to downtown Seattle, July 9-10, as Cowpie Bingo mosies its way into Westlake Park. The two-day event is designed to give city folks a sample of the country fun to be found at the 141st annual King County Fair, the longest running old fashioned fair west of the Mississippi.

June 23, 2003
Unincorporated communities get voice on commission on governance
The Metropolitan King County Council today ensured that residents in unincorporated King County will play a role in the most comprehensive review of county government since the passage of the King County Charter with its unanimous approval to expand the King County Commission on Governance.

June 23, 2003
Sims announces successful purchase agreement for Central Area nursing home
King County Executive Ron Sims announced today that negotiations to move forward with the purchase and sale of the nursing home formerly known as the Branch Villa Health Care Center have been successfully completed and final contracts will be signed for the property on Friday. The King County Council approved the agreement earlier today.

June 23, 2003
Six King County programs honored with National Association of Counties Achievement Awards
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that six King County programs will be awarded a 2003 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award. The programs are being recognized for excellency and promotion of responsible, responsive, and effective county government.

June 20, 2003
EPA grant funds awarded to assess contaminated sites
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that King County will receive a $200,000 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for assessing environmentally contaminated sites. The funds will be used for a variety of projects, including assessment of a commercial block in downtown Auburn intended for economic development, and a former shooting range in rural King County that the County wishes to purchase for open space.

June 20, 2003
Park & Ride lot rider alert - Summer paving schedule
Summer paving is slated for Bellevue, Kent, and Federal Way Park & Ride lots.

June 19, 2003
Regional Affordable Housing Program to distribute low-income housing funds
King County Executive Ron Sims today proposed creation of a new Regional Affordable Housing Program for the King County region that will provide much needed housing for very low-income households, seniors and disabled persons.

June 19, 2003
Work begins Monday on Sahalee Way intersection with State Route 202
The King County Road Services Division will begin work Monday, June 23 on a project to improve the intersection of Sahalee Way with State Route 202 (Redmond-Fall City Road).

June 18, 2003
Conservation education, habitat restoration projects get good news from King County
King County fish and wildlife habitat will get a boost from five community projects recently awarded grant money from the King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks.

June 18, 2003
Public invited to bus 'roadeo'
This Saturday, King County Metro Transit will hold its 27th Annual "Metroadeo" – an event where bus drivers go bumper-to-bumper to see who has the best driving skills in the county.

June 18, 2003
Productivity initiative to expand reducing costs of wastewater treatment
King County Executive Ron Sims today proposed expansion of an innovative and highly successful productivity pilot program that has saved nearly $10.3 million in operating costs for wastewater treatment during the past two years.

June 17, 2003
Together local students, teachers and administrators conserve resources and save dollars
King County's Green Schools Program -- in its first year -- helped three area schools to conserve natural resources and cut costs.

June 17, 2003
Open house June 30 on wastewater treatment plant for Carnation
The City of Carnation and King County's Wastewater Treatment Division have scheduled a community open house for Monday, June 30, on the proposed Carnation wastewater treatment plant.

June 16, 2003
Statement of Council Chair Cynthia Sullivan on today's Superior Court ruling on Initiative 18
"Today’s ruling by King County Superior Court Judge William Downing affirms that amendment of the King County Charter can happen only after action by both the Council and the voters." ... more

June 16, 2003
Council restructures permit fees to improve predictability, accountability
The Metropolitan King County Council today approved a restructuring of the fees paid to the Department of Development and Environmental Services (DDES) for land use permits.

June 16, 2003
King County and Auburn School District reach agreement on operation of Auburn Pool
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced an agreement with the Auburn School District that allows the pool to reopen for school district use, ensuring that the District's students, including the championship swim and polo teams, will continue to have access to the pool.

June 16, 2003
Sims proposes election improvements
King County Executive Ron Sims today proposed a series of election improvements aimed at increasing efficiency and effectiveness of the County's election process, its technical infrastructure, information to the public and systems applications.

June 16, 2003
Sims commends adoption of permitting fee structure
King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the Metropolitan King County Council for adopting his proposed customer service enhancements and changes to building and land use permitting fees designed to increase predictability and accountability. The measure also approves a fee increase for 2004 and possibly in 2005.

June 16, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on June 20th
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, June 20, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The meeting will be held at:
King County Council Chambers
10th Floor, King County Courthouse
516 Third Avenue, Seattle

 
June 13, 2003
Ratepayers the winners under Sims' Solid Waste Initiative; Briefing at County Council Monday morning
King County solid waste ratepayers will be the winners in a proposal from King County Executive Ron Sims to bring new efficiencies to the Solid Waste Division and invest in a garbage transportation system that would increase competition with private haulers.

June 12, 2003
King County’s 8th annual Pet Adoptathon June 28; More than 100 cats and dogs available to new homes
Looking for a new cat or dog? King County Animal Control has a great deal for you - adopt a cat or dog during the eighth annual Pet Adoptathon and get nearly 50 percent off the regular adoption fee.

June 12, 2003
Closure of portions of Sammamish River Trail will be necessary for two weeks in June
Media advisory: As part of its continuing effort to upgrade the Sammamish River Trail, King County Parks will periodically close portions of the trail from June 16 - 30 of this year for widening and repaving.

June 12, 2003
Parks events: June 14 to June 22, 2003

June 11, 2003
Beach Naturalists ready to "teach the beach" during lowest tides of summer
This coming Saturday and Sunday, June 14 and 15, the waters of Puget Sound will recede to their lowest levels of the summer, revealing unique creatures and plant life hidden from view most of the year. Between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. beachgoers will have the chance to explore the exposed sea life and tidelands during a minus 3.56 feet tide Saturday and a minus 3.79 feet tide Sunday (source: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration).

June 11, 2003
Proposed efficiencies could save millions and provide better customer service
In a move to become more efficient while still providing good customer service, the King County Solid Waste Division is proposing to change operating hours at its eight transfer stations and Cedar Hills Regional Landfill. The division has been given a budget target of at least $7 million in efficiencies for 2004. The proposed reduced hours of operation are expected to deliver approximately $3.5 million in savings.

June 11, 2003
Lake Washington schools join County's I-Net fiber optic network
King County Executive Ron Sims announced today that the Lake Washington School District will become the most recent agency to join King County's Institutional Network (I-Net), a high speed fiber optic data, voice and video network that has the capability to connect 279 public sites including county offices, school districts, suburban cities, health care facilities, and cultural institutions.

June 11, 2003
Public Health announces dramatic decline in teen pregnancies, births and abortions in Seattle and King County
Today, King County Executive Ron Sims, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels and Public Health - Seattle & King County released "Public Health Data Watch: Adolescent Pregnancy, Birth and Abortion," a report that documents sharp drops and historic low levels in birth, pregnancy and abortion rates in adolescent girls in Seattle and King County.

June 9, 2003
Council appoints Steve Hammond to succeed Pullen
The Metropolitan King County Council today appointed Steve Hammond of Enumclaw to fill the vacancy in Council District 9 created by the passing of the late Kent Pullen.

June 9, 2003
Council confirms Nate Caldwell to lead Community Corrections
The Metropolitan King County Council gave its unanimous approval today to the appointment of Nate Caldwell as the Manager of the Community Corrections Division of the King County Department of Adult and Youth Detention.

June 9, 2003
Sims creates new soccer fields in Northshore area
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced an agreement that will bring much needed soccer fields to thousands of athletes in the Northshore area and would allow an unused park property to become the permanent home for the Woodinville Farmers Market.

June 6, 2003
Culvert failure accelerates road project
The King County Road Services Division is accelerating a road project on Southeast 248th Street east of Lake Wilderness, after a portion of the roadway collapsed Thursday night.

June 5, 2003
King County eagerly anticipates June 7 opening of new Marymoor Park concert series
A performance by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman Saturday at King County's Marymoor Park in Redmond will usher in a dynamic new era for King County parks. Chapman's performance marks the debut show for the Concerts at Marymoor summer series, which has quickly become a shining model for the parks' new way of doing business. The show, which also features eastmountainsouth, begins at 7 p.m.

June 5, 2003
20th anniversary celebration for Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park set Saturday
Media Advisory: Please join park lovers and King County political leaders past and present atop Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park Saturday to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the nation's largest urban wildland park. Along with shared memories and thanks, the festivities will include displays related to the park, three free guided hikes led by members of the Issaquah Alps Trails Club (IATC), and light lunches and snacks provided by IATC.

June 4, 2003
Upcoming public meetings in Bellevue and Kent on King County Animal Control code changes
King County Animal Control will hold two public meetings in June to gather public input on amendments proposed for the sections of the King County Code that regulate the keeping of dogs, cats, and other small animals. The proposed code changes are primarily aimed at clarifying existing regulations and ensuring that they are consistent throughout the code. No significant changes to the County’s animal control policies have been proposed.

June 4, 2003
Designers explore cutting number of construction portals for Brightwater pipeline routes
Engineers for the proposed Brightwater wastewater system are working to cut in half the number of construction portals needed to dig deep tunnels to and from the preferred plant site.

June 3, 2003
Metro’s 'Driver of the Year' went from blackboard to blacktop
In 1974, Judi Fisher had a bachelors degree in French, a masters in Romance Linguistics, and absolutely no prospects for the teaching job she wanted.

June 3, 2003
Developer of wood-based erosion control material is latest partner in King County's LinkUp program
Forest Concepts, LLC, a developer of products made in part from urban wood waste, is the newest member of the LinkUp program. LinkUp was developed by King County to encourage businesses to use more recycled materials in the products they make.

June 3, 2003
Temporary traffic revisions continue in south Lake Union area because of sewer construction
Traffic and street revisions are continuing in the south Lake Union area of Seattle to allow construction of four wastewater pipelines as part of the Denny Way Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control Project.

June 3, 2003
Community leaders and local health officials encourage personal action from gay men against resurgent HIV and STD
Public Health - Seattle & King County encourages gay and bisexual men to take a more active role in promoting their health and the health of their community through testing, disclosure of HIV status and condom use.

June 2, 2003
Hawk eyes of Solid Waste employee spot runaway falcon
Thanks to the hawk eyes of one employee, a runaway gyrfalcon named Kenai is safely home at the Woodland Park Zoo.

June 2, 2003
County to operate central link light rail agreement places Metro Transit in charge of maintaining rail line
The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously adopted an agreement that will make King County responsible for running Sound Transit’s Central Link Light Rail line.

June 2, 2003
Community leaders, clergy and Sims hold HIV/AIDS Summit and launch prevention campaign focusing on African Americans
This past weekend, King County Executive Ron Sims and Public Health - Seattle & King County were joined in an HIV/AIDS Summit by clergy and community leaders that include the Seattle Treatment Education Program, African Americans Reach and Teach Health Ministry, Brother to Brother, People of Color Against AIDS Network and Northwest AIDS Education and Training Center.

June 2, 2003
Brand new Cougar Mountain series off to a running start
On May 24, 183 trail runners gathered at Cougar Mountain for the first ever organized trail run at the park. The run was the first in a series that will take place throughout the summer.

June 2, 2003
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month
I, Ron Sims, King County Executive, do hereby proclaim the month of June 2003 as GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER PRIDE MONTH in King County. I encourage all residents to join me in celebrating the important contributions that lesbian and gay individuals have made and ask that everyone support the many Pride festivities and events taking place during the month of June.

May 2003

May 30, 2003
King County Executive Sims to kick off 20th anniversary celebration for Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park
Park lovers and King County political leaders past and present will gather atop Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park on June 7 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the nation's largest urban wildland park. King County Executive Ron Sims will kick off the program, sponsored jointly by King County Parks and the Issaquah Alps Trails Club (IATC), from Anti-Aircraft Park at 10 a.m.

May 29, 2003
King County Employee fatally injured in industrial accident
On May 29th at 8:30 a.m., a King County Department of Transportation worker was struck and killed by a dump truck at a work site on the Lake Dorothy Road 5 miles East of North Bend.

May 29, 2003
Naturalists ready to help people enjoy and learn about beach this weekend
More than 100 volunteer Beach Naturalists will be available at area beaches this weekend to help people to learn about and enjoy King County's shorelines.

May 28, 2003
Bus service improvements start Saturday, June 7, 2003
Every day, changes occur to King County roads, businesses and communities that impact our transportation network. That’s why Metro makes changes to its bus service several times throughout the year. We want to help make your bus trips as fast and convenient as possible, and deliver service you can count on and appreciate.

May 27, 2003
Treemont Conservation Project to conserve open space while allowing for limited rural development
King County Executive Sims today proposed the Treemont Conservation Acquisition Project, which conserves important open space areas while limiting rural development.

May 22, 2003
Three public seminars this summer on science, engineering for Brightwater treatment facilities
At three public seminars this summer, scientists, engineers and other experts will present technical information about Brightwater wastewater treatment facilities for south Snohomish County and north King County. The Saturday seminars are June 7 in Shoreline and July 19 and Aug. 16 in Bothell.

May 22, 2003
It's time to get fresh: Farmers Market season is here
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that farmers markets will vitalize 17 urban and suburban communities in King County this year, and help local farmers stay in a business that adds to the region's quality of life.

May 22, 2003
Engineers filter new wastewater treatment technologies to choose high-quality system
Engineers designing facilities to treat wastewater from south Snohomish County and north King County are ready to make a quantum leap in the technology used to protect public health and the environment.

May 22, 2003
Public Health offers free tobacco retailer training class
Public Health - Seattle & King County is expanding educational outreach to retailers by offering free Responsible Tobacco Retailer Training classes.

May 22, 2003
Sims encouraged by initial parks levy results
King County Executive Ron Sims today declared the initial results of the parks levy "very encouraging".

May 22, 2003
King County’s summer work focuses on making roads safer, smoother, and longer lasting
King County will be spending $4.6 million on its pavement overlay program in 2003. By 2007, that amount is expected to climb to $7.6 million.

May 21, 2003
'Vote of confidence' on parks levy
"The residents of King County recognize the value of our park system and voted to protect an incredible legacy of our region," said Councilmember Carolyn Edmonds, chair of the Council’s Natural Resources, Parks and Open Space Committee.

May 21, 2003
King County Risk Manager recognized for her dedication to risk management
Jennifer Nelson, King County's Risk Manager, will be honored this month at the Public Risk Management Association's national conference with a Chapter Service Award.

May 21, 2003
SDOT 35th Ave NE Street Improvement Project
King County Metro is working in cooperation with Seattle Dept. of Transportation (SDOT) on the 35th Avenue NE Street Improvement Project scheduled to begin in the fall of 2003.

May 20, 2003
Irons calls for rebuilding Elections office
As voters went to the polls today, Metropolitan King County Councilmember David Irons criticized the late mailing of more than 1,500 vote-by-mail ballots to residents in east and south King County and called for rebuilding of the county Elections office.

May 20, 2003
Hague calls for citizen oversight for county’s Election Division
King County Councilmember Jane Hague today called for establishment of a citizens’ oversight committee to ensure public accountability for the County’s beleaguered elections division during the fall primary and general elections.

May 20, 2003
Council seeks to restore public confidence in King County elections office
Metropolitan King County Council chair Cynthia Sullivan today took several steps to work with the County Executive to find new leadership for the county’s Records, Elections and Licensing Division and restore public confidence, following the resignation of division manager Bob Roegner.

May 20, 2003
Sims accepts resignation from head of Records, Elections and Licensing Services Division
King County Executive Ron Sims today accepted the resignation of Bob Roegner, head of the Records, Elections and Licensing Services Division. Jim Buck, currently the administrative services officer of the County's Department of Executive Services will serve as interim division director until a permanent replacement is named.

May 20, 2003
Transit service in SODO affected by baseball, construction and holiday
During the next six days, King County Metro Transit service in the south downtown Seattle area (SODO) will be affected by the start of a big state freeway project, other construction work, the Seattle Mariners baseball schedule, and the upcoming Memorial Day holiday.

May 19, 2003
Country star Jo Dee Messina highlights strong King County Fair concert line-up
The King County Fair in Enumclaw is announcing that advance tickets for country music heavyweights Jo Dee Messina (July 18), Sawyer Brown (July 16) and Terri Clark (July 20), along with rock mainstay Grand Funk Railroad (July 17) and popular cover band The Beatniks (July 19), are now on sale.

May 16, 2003
West Nile virus
Executive Sims addresses employees on the West Nile virus.

May 16, 2003
Park events: Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 25
Find out what's happening at Cougar Mountain, the King County Fairgrounds and the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatic Center.

May 16, 2003
County calls TOPOFF 2 'important first step' towards regional cooperation
King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the TOPOFF 2 Congressionally mandated emergency preparedness drill held this week as "an important first step toward regional cooperation and readiness."

May 16, 2003
Trail Running Series comes to Cougar Mountain
King County is partnering with the Seattle Running Company to bring a new trail running series to Cougar Mountain this summer.

May 15, 2003
Tickets on sale Saturday for Tori Amos, Ben Folds show at King County's Marymoor Park
Tickets for the Tori Amos and Ben Folds outdoor concert, scheduled July 26 at King County's Marymoor Park, go on sale this weekend. Tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 17, at all Ticketmaster Outlets and online at Ticketmaster.com.

May 15, 2003
Special food worker training/testing offered in North Bend on May 22, 2003
Public Health - Seattle & King County will be conducting training and testing of food workers on Thursday, May 22nd at 4 p.m. at Mount Si Senior Center in North Bend. Those successfully completing the training and passing the required test will receive a Food Worker Card.

May 14, 2003
Beach Naturalists gear up for fifth season protecting area beaches
The Beach Naturalist program, a collaboration of public and private organizations, protects area beaches and marine life by teaching youth and other beach visitors about beach stewardship. Beginning the weekend of May 17, Beach Naturalists will be on duty at seven local beaches to provide fun and useful information about the fragile sea creatures and plant life left unprotected during low tides.

May 12, 2003
King County Parks' emergency sheltering plans to receive TOPOFF test
The King County Parks Division's essential regional role in providing emergency mass care and shelter services will get a major test May 12-14, as part of a national counter-terrorism exercise called TOPOFF 2.

May 12, 2003
Garlic mustard, highly invasive noxious weed spotted in Seattle parks and neighborhoods; County seeks help to identify and eradicate
King County is asking Seattle residents, especially those who live near parks, to help identify and eradicate Garlic Mustard, a highly invasive noxious weed, recently spotted in local neighborhoods.

May 12, 2003
Sims recommends plan for light rail operations
King County Executive Ron Sims today recommended approval of an agreement for the operation and maintenance of Sound Transit's Central Link light rail system by King County Metro.

May 12, 2003
LinkUp program seeks new partners for 2003
Manufacturers that use recycled materials in their products may be eligible for technical assistance from King County's LinkUp program, sponsored by the Solid Waste Division.

May 12, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on May 16th
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, May 16, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at: King County Council Chambers, 10th Floor, King County Courthouse, 516 Third Avenue, Seattle.

May 12, 2003
TOPOFF tests region's ability to keep public informed during emergencies
This week, workers from police, fire, transportation, schools, banks, city and county governments, utilities, even airplane manufacturers, will find out what it's like to combine their varied skills and work side-by-side for TOPOFF 2 - a federal exercise that will challenge our region's ability to respond to an act of terrorism.

May 12, 2003
Ames Lake Trestle closure
The Ames Lake Trestle on the Ames Lake-Carnation Road will be closed to traffic from Monday, May 19 at 7 a.m. through Wednesday, July 2.

May 12, 2003
Auto auction set for May 17
King County’s semi-annual equipment auction featuring dozens of cars, trucks, vans and pieces of heavy equipment will be held Saturday, May 17 at 9 a.m. in Renton.

May 9, 2003
DAJD interim leadership announcement
Executive Sims' message to employees announcing the interim leadership team for the Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention.

May 9, 2003
Park events: Saturday, May 10 to Sunday, May 18
There's plenty to do at the King County Fairgrounds over the next two weekends!

May 9, 2003
Industrial waste dischargers earn environmental awards for complying with King County regulations
Five companies in Seattle, Renton, Bellevue and Woodinville have earned a Commitment-to-Compliance Award from the Industrial Waste Program of King County's Wastewater Treatment Division.

May 9, 2003
Major King County sewer tunneling to begin under south Beacon Hill
Construction of a 4-million-gallon, 14-foot-diameter wastewater storage and treatment tunnel will begin in late May as part of the King County's Henderson/M.L. King CSO Project in the Rainier Beach community of Seattle.

May 9, 2003
Sims announces King County TopOff schedule
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced the County's schedule for participating in the federally mandated TOPOFF 2 emergency preparation exercise and discussed the importance of the event, which will take place May 12 - 16, 2003.

May 9, 2003
King County participating in counter terrorism exercise
Message to employees: King County will be undertaking an exciting opportunity next week. We will be participating in the most comprehensive terrorism response exercise ever held in this country - an exercise aimed at making us even better prepared to deal with emergency situations.

May 9, 2003
Part of Quartermaster Drive to close
Quartermaster Drive on Vashon Island will be closed for three weeks between Monument Drive and Portage Way from 8 a.m. Monday, May 12 to 8 a.m. Monday, June 2 while King County repairs the adjacent seawall.

May 8, 2003
King County Launches New Partnership Initiative to Enhance Park Facilities
As a way to meet the public need for enhanced park facilities in a time of budget cuts, King County announced the establishment of the Association Development and Operation Partnerships (ADOP) Program to create new and enhanced facilities through public/private partnerships.

May 8, 2003
Northwest Folklife Festival Transit Service
Friday, May 23 - Monday, May 26, 2003 - Metro Transit is providing special Shuttle service Saturday, Sunday and Monday for the Northwest Folklife Festival between Northgate and Downtown Seattle over the Memorial Day weekend.

May 8, 2003
Transit Services Memorial Day
Memorial Day schedules for Monday, May 26, 2003.

May 8, 2003
New TV show discusses dirty bombs, radiation health risks and preparedness
Answering questions and addressing common misconceptions about the health impacts from a dirty bomb explosion, Public Health - Seattle & King County is currently running a "Spotlight on Environmental Health" episode that addresses this new public health concern.

May 7, 2003
Salmon recovery projects in King County awarded $2.6 million in grants
King County and its regional partners are taking more steps toward salmon recovery thanks to grants awarded by the Washington State Salmon Recovery Funding Board (SRFB) last week. The board awarded five grants worth $2.6 million for salmon habitat projects in King County watersheds.

May 6, 2003
A message to King County Employees: Domestic violence
From King County Executive Ron Sims, Prosecuting Attorney Norm Maleng, and Sheriff Dave Reichert.

May 6, 2003
Agencies invite landowner participation in lower Snoqualmie River flood hazard reductionprogram
King County, the City of Snoqualmie, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are inviting landowners downstream of a proposed flood control project to participate in a program aimed at elevating homes and structures in the lower Snoqualmie River floodplain

May 5, 2003
Council recognizes Issaquah environmental activist
Metropolitan King County Councilmembers David Irons and Larry Phillips presented a special recognition from the Council this morning to Issaquah resident Ruth Kees in honor of her four decades of work to protect the environment in King County.

May 2, 2003
Pollworkers needed for May 20 election
King County Elections is currently seeking people to serve as election officials for a Countywide election to be held on May 20, 2003.

May 2, 2003
Construction to improve Factoria Transfer Station will temporarily affect hours and operation
From May 5 through June 20, construction to improve safety at King County's Factoria Transfer Station will affect the station's hours of operation. During construction, the transfer station will be open to the general public on weekends only.

May 2, 2003
Leaders advocate for a safe Cinco de Mayo
With Cinco de Mayo festivities commencing this weekend, Public Health - Seattle & King County and the King County Traffic Safety Coalition announced that King County law enforcement agencies will work the roadways to keep them free of drivers that speed, drink and drive, or break other traffic laws.

May 2, 2003
Mental Health Month
King County Executive Ron Sims recognizes May 2003 as Mental Health Month.

May 1, 2003
Concerts at Marymoor tickets go on sale May 3
Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 3, at 9 a.m., for a potent concert lineup playing the Puget Sound's freshest outdoor venue - King County's Marymoor Park. Tickets for the Concerts at Marymoor series will be available at all Ticketmaster locations and online at www.ticketmaster.com.

May 1, 2003
Sims honors outstanding Earth Heroes at School
King County Executive Ron Sims today recognized 21 outstanding teachers, students, staff, volunteers, programs and schools doing exceptional work to protect the environment at an awards ceremony at Mercer View Community Center on Mercer Island. Colleagues and classmates nominated the recipients for their on-going commitment to preserving the natural environment through educational efforts.

May 1, 2003
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month proclamation
King County Executive Ron Sims proclaims May 2003 as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in King County.

April 2003

April 30, 2003
Businesses can boost their bottom lines by advertising in King County parks and facilities
King County's efforts to boost financial support for parks can also help Puget Sound businesses boost their bottom lines. By advertising in King County Parks' active-use facilities, businesses can associate products and services with healthy communities and help maintain the region's high quality of life by supporting parks.

April 30, 2003
Vashon Treatment Plant upgrades rescheduled for 2004
King County's Wastewater Treatment Division has rescheduled construction improvements for the aging Vashon Island Treatment Plant. The work had been planned for this year's construction season but will begin in April 2004 following an environmental review and permitting process.

April 29, 2003
Water Taxi will provide extended service for Mariners games
Beginning with the Mariners home game on May 6, the Water Taxi will provide extended service for Mariners games played Monday - Thursday. Fans can now take the Water Taxi home after the game! The Water Taxi will operate a "Friday" schedule for weekday Mariners home games, so bring your mitt and avoid the traffic.

April 29, 2003
King County, neighborhood group receive national 'landscape' award for Denny Creek fish ladder project
King County's Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) and the Denny Creek Neighborhood Alliance were recognized with a Pantheon "Landscape Use" Award by the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association on Monday.

April 29, 2003
Metro exploring more changes for Route 48
King County Metro Transit is looking at ways to increase the speed and reliability of Route 48 as it travels from Rainier Beach to Ballard.

April 29, 2003
‘Smart card’ agreement creates a transportation system without boundaries for Puget Sound area
Seven public transportation agencies today authorized a new fare system that will allow passengers to move more easily between buses, trains and ferries across four counties in the Puget Sound. The unprecedented agreement also serves as a collaboration model for transportation systems nationwide.

April 28, 2003
'Earth Month' volunteers provide 2,500 hours of much needed support to King County Parks
By the time 'Earth Month' comes to a close on Wednesday, nearly 1,000 volunteers will have improved facilities or restored sensitive habitat throughout the King County Parks system.

April 28, 2003
Salmon restoration project receives national recognition
The National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association today presented its Pantheon Award to King County for a three-year salmon restoration project on Denny Creek in Holmes Point, which is north of Kirkland. Metropolitan King County Councilmember Jane Hague, who helped spearhead the project, accepted the award on behalf of King County.

April 28, 2003
Have 'smart card,' will travel
Representatives from some of the largest public transportation agencies in the state will gather tomorrow to sign off on a single fare system for bus, rail and ferry travel throughout the Puget Sound region.

April 28, 2003
Park Events Saturday, April 26 to Sunday, May 4
May 3-4 2003 May Flowers Long Course Invitational 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Hosted by the Bellevue Club Swim Team, this annual event draws 300 of the region's best swimmers competing in the Olympic-size, 50-meter course. Teams are expected from across Washington, Canada and Oregon. Competition begins each day at 9:00am and will conclude at about 3:30pm. Spectator admission is free. A swimming apparel vendor will be open in the facility lobby on Saturday.

April 25, 2003
Teens take transit ideas to the public
Teens from Sammamish and Issaquah are helping the community explore new ways to "move it," as the students embark on a public education campaign to get people out of their cars.

April 25, 2003
Share a memory about Metro
King County Metro Transit is celebrating 30 years of service during 2003 — and the state’s largest transit agency has Metro riders and employees to thank for its success!

April 25, 2003
Elliott Bridge closed this weekend
The Elliott Bridge will be closed this weekend for repairs from 7 a.m. Saturday, April 26 to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 27.

April 24, 2003
Statement from King County Executive Ron Sims on The City of Sammamish Hearing Examiner’s Public Agency Utility Exception (PAUE) Decision
"While we are disappointed in the Hearing Examiner’s ruling, we remain committed to making this public land accessible for people to enjoy. We believe our proposal accomplishes our goals to create a trail that is safe for the public and doesn’t harm the environment." ...more

April 24, 2003
Powerful, diverse lineup highlights inaugural outdoor music series at King County's Marymoor Park
Combining the great musical artists of our time with the scenic beauty of Marymoor Park, King County Parks' new way of doing business is paying pleasant dividends for Puget Sound music lovers.

April 23, 2003
Concerts at Marymoor to announce powerful, diverse lineup for inaugural outdoor music series
Media advisory: The Lakeside Group, the House of Blues and King County will unveil the highly anticipated artist line-up for the Puget Sound's newest outdoor summer concert venue: Thursday, April 24, 2003, 10 a.m., Clise Mansion, King County's Marymoor Park, Redmond.

April 23, 2003
Built Green residential building program named best in the country
The number of healthy, environmentally friendly houses built in King County has dramatically increased in the past three years thanks to the Built GreenTM program, a partnership effort between King and Snohomish Counties, the Fannie Mae Foundation and the Master Builders Association.

April 23, 2003
Land acquisition begins for Brightwater
As part of the siting process for a new sewage treatment plant, King County will soon begin property acquisition to help keep the Brightwater project on schedule and give tax breaks and certainty to property owners.

April 22, 2003
King County introduces fluorescent lamp recycling policy
On April 22, King County Executive Ron Sims will introduce a policy to ensure that all King County facilities recycle mercury-containing lamps above and beyond requirements of state and federal law.

April 22, 2003
King County seeks businesses for composting pilot study
King County is seeking companies to participate in a pilot program that could save money and benefit the environment. The Food Waste Composting for Businesses program is the first of its kind in King County and if successful will serve as a blueprint for a larger effort to enlist businesses to compost food on-site, rather than paying to have it hauled off.

April 22, 2003
Steve Thompson, Adult and Juvenile Detention Director to leave King County
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced Steve Thompson, Director of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) will retire from King County on May 15, 2003, and take the position of Snohomish County Director of Corrections.

April 21, 2003
Proposed bus stop changes for route 253 on NE 85th St and 154th Ave NE
Metro may revise Route 253 to operate via 161st Ave. NE and NE 90th St. to better serve north Redmond. As a result, Route 253 would no longer serve bus stops located on NE 85th St and 154th Ave NE.

April 18, 2003
County Executive recommends no increase in sewer rate for 2004
Based on the success of cost-saving measures, King County Executive Ron Sims is recommending no increase in the monthly sewer rate for wastewater treatment. If approved by the King County Council, the rate in 2004 would remain $23.40 a month for the third consecutive year.

April 18, 2003
Parks events: Saturday, April 19 to Sunday, April 27
As the weather warms activity in King County Parks picks-up. A sure sign of spring: Motorcycles, swimming, and spring egg hunts, all things going on in parks this weekend. Here's a look at events for this weekend and next.

April 18, 2003
Bamboo-leaf Oak at Marymoor stands tall on Arbor Day
According to Trees of Seattle, Marymoor's Bamboo-leaf Oak, also known as Japanese Live Oak (Quercus myrsinifolia), is the oldest and largest in the Puget Sound Region.

April 18, 2003
New installations in King County Parks save money and natural resources
Low-flush toilets in restrooms, computer controlled lighting at athletic fields and self-compacting trashcans are all part of an effort to cut costs and preserve natural resources at King County Parks. These cost saving measures, which could save tens of thousands of dollars annually, are part of the parks transition plan, an ongoing effort to stabilize King County parks financially and operationally.

April 18, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on April 25
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, April 25, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

April 17, 2003
King County releases Groundwater Protection Annual Report
Protecting water resources, the theme for Earth Day 2003, is also the subject of the King County Department of Natural Resources 2002 Groundwater Annual Report released this month.

April 17, 2003
Sims, Public Health Director announce plan to tackle West Nile virus
King County Executive Ron Sims and Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County, announced a new plan to manage West Nile virus, which is expected to be found in King County this year.

April 17, 2003
Executive Sims, Mayor Nickels, and partners advise consumers: "Don't Borrow Trouble"
Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels, King County Executive Ron Sims, home mortgage investor Freddie Mac and other community partners launched the "Don't Borrow Trouble" campaign. The effort targets abusive and fraudulent home mortgage lending practices in the greater Seattle area.

April 17, 2003
Online directory helps King County residents make Earth Day every day
Earth Day is Tuesday, April 22, but King County residents will find dozens opportunities to get environmentally involved throughout the spring and summer at a new King County online directory.

April 16, 2003
Public memorial service for Kent Pullen
The family of Metropolitan King County Councilmember Kent Pullen invites the public to celebrate his life at a memorial service on Thursday, April 24.

April 16, 2003
Sheriff's Office seeks help from the public
The Sheriff’s Office is asking for help from the public in identifying a suspect in two separate and possibly related assault and robbery cases.

April 15, 2003
Councilmember Kent Pullen leaves a lasting legacy of leadership
Executive Sims' statement on the passing of Councilmember Kent Pullen: "I am today terribly saddened at the passing of Councilmember Kent Pullen and my heart goes out to his wife and family. Kent was a man who led by example in his pursuit of civil liberties, labor policies and serving the needs of his constituency." ...more

April 15, 2003
Aides announce passing of Councilmember Kent Pullen
Aides announced today that Metropolitan King County Councilmember Kent Pullen passed away Monday afternoon at Enumclaw Community Hospital, after a lengthy illness.

April 15, 2003
Councilmembers mourn the passing of friend and colleague Kent Pullen
It is with great sadness that members of the Metropolitan King County Council learn of the passing of a valued friend and colleague, Councilmember Kent Pullen, who represented Council District 9 since 1990.

April 14, 2003
Senator Cantwell aids King County in breaking ground for innovative energy project
King County broke ground today for construction of the world's largest fuel cell power plant operating on sludge digester gas from a wastewater treatment plant. At the county's South Treatment Plant in Renton, County Executive Ron Sims and U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell joined other project partners to launch the innovative demonstration project.

April 14, 2003
Special food worker training/testing offered in Auburn on April 24, 2003
Public Health - Seattle & King County will be conducting training and testing of food workers on Thursday, April 24 at 2 p.m. at the Auburn Eagles.

Apr. 11, 2003
King County announces 2003 Green Globe Award winners
Today King County Executive Ron Sims gave Green Globe Awards to eight area businesses and an individual in recognition of their outstanding achievement in environmental stewardship. The awards, King County's most prestigious, are given every two years.

April 11, 2003
Public Health announces new suspected cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
Public Health - Seattle & King County is announcing the results of a new round of investigations and six new suspected cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in King County residents. The total number of suspected SARS cases in King County is now 11.

April 11, 2003
King County to break ground for innovative energy project using gas from treated sewage
King County Executive Ron Sims and Councilmember Jane Hague will be joined by U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell to break ground for construction of the world's largest fuel cell power plant operating on digester gas from a wastewater treatment plant.

Apr. 10, 2003
Community meeting April 17 on plans for Carnation sewer system
King County's Wastewater Treatment Division and the City of Carnation have scheduled a community meeting for Thursday, April 17, on plans for a sewage treatment and collection system in Carnation.

April 9, 2003
Executive Sims launches new Smart Growth Initiative
King County Executive Ron Sims today transmitted new Smart Growth legislation promoting both environmental protection and affordable housing.

April 9, 2003
Community leaders honor heroes and stress water safety
King County Executive Ron Sims and representatives from Public Health - Seattle & King County, Seattle Parks and Recreation, the American Red Cross and the King County Drowning Prevention Coalition kicked off the 2003 swimming, fishing and boating season by urging people to learn about water safety and drowning prevention during April Pools Day, Saturday, April 12.

April 9, 2003
Elliott Bay Water Taxi Service to resume April 21, 2003
Water Taxi service across Seattle’s Elliott Bay operates seven days a week, between Pier 54 at the foot of Madison Street on the downtown Seattle waterfront and the Seacrest dock in West Seattle.

April 9, 2003
King County Council Transportation Committee to consider changes for transit service
King County Metro Transit has submitted to King County Executive Ron Sims service change recommendations for transit service changes in north King County (Lake Forest Park, Shoreline, and Seattle north of Northgate) and Federal Way, northeast Tacoma, and travel to and from downtown Seattle.

April 7, 2003
Tracy Chapman to kick off 'Concerts at Marymoor' on June 7
Excitement for the Puget Sound's newest outdoor concert venue jumped again today with the announcement that gifted singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman will open the summer series at King County's Marymoor Park in Redmond.

April 7, 2003
County promotes wide range of energy measures
King County Executive Ron Sims today proposed a wide-ranging series of measures that will protect the County from volatility in electricity rates like those during the energy crisis of 2000-2001.

April 7, 2003
Sims commends adoption of "Smart Card" for transit
King County Executive Ron Sims today commended the County Council for approving the innovative new "Smart Card" technology that will link the fare collection systems of six major transit agencies.

April 7, 2003
Sims asks for help to prevent accidental wireless 9-1-1 calls
Each day, over 2,000 9-1-1 calls are made from wireless phones in King County. These phones have proven to be an invaluable tool for calling for help when an emergency arises.

April 7, 2003
Interim lot opens for Eastgate park-and-ride users
Construction will begin soon on a new five-story parking garage at King County Metro Transit’s busy Eastgate park-and-ride lot on Interstate 90.

April 7, 2003
Transit alert
Transit service and traffic in general will be affected by the Mariners' 2003 home opening games on Tuesday, April 8th and Wednesday, April 9th, as well as by subsequent home games throughout the season.

April 7, 2003
King County Courthouse continues to get stronger as Courthouse Seismic Project meets schedule milestone
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that the Courthouse Seismic Project met its first significant milestone with the County reoccupying the basement through the west side of the first floor.

April 7, 2003
Public Health announces one new suspected case of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
Public Health - Seattle & King County is announcing one new suspected case of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in King County residents. The total number of suspected SARS cases in King County is now five.

April 7, 2003
Public Health urges healthy eating, active living
Public Health - Seattle & King County is calling attention to overweight and obesity in our county and urging the community to follow the theme of this year's National Public Health Week by "Getting in shape for the future through healthy eating and active living."

April 7, 2003
Construction at Factoria Transfer Station May 5 - June 20, 2003
We are replacing the Scale house building to improve customer service and safety. This work will significantly affect the days the station is open and how fees are charged.

April 4, 2003
Site adjacent to Fire Training Academy added to list for Secure Community Transition Facility
Executive Sims' statement regarding the additional listing of State Department of Natural Resources property adjacent to the State Fire Training Academy as a possible site for a Secure Community Transition Facility.

April 4, 2003
Vashon Island Community Service Center to offer passport application services
King County is pleased to announce the addition of passport application services at its Community Service Center on Vashon Island beginning Tuesday, April 8, 2003.

April 2, 2003
Let King County help clean out your basement!
King County is launching a new Web site that helps residents put a stop to household clutter once and for all. The Online Exchange offers residents a quick, simple and free means of selling or giving away unwanted household goods.

April 2, 2003
King County experiencing a 30-year high in TB cases; new case reported at a local school
Today, Public Health - Seattle & King County and Seattle Public Schools announced a new tuberculosis case at a Seattle school. Currently, King County is experiencing a 30-year high in TB cases, with 158 cases last year and 40 cases so far in 2003.

April 1, 2003
When an earthquake hits do you know to "Drop, Cover & Hold"?
King County Executive Ron Sims is urging all King County residents to participate in the annual Drop, Cover & Hold earthquake drill. This Thursday, April 3, 2003, between 9:45 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., residents across the state of Washington are encouraged to participate in the drop, cover and hold drill.

April 1, 2003
King County set to begin noxious weed surveys
The King County Noxious Weed Control Program this month will begin its annual roadside surveys for noxious weeds and is reminding landowners to keep an eye out for the non-native invasive plants.

April 1, 2003
Public Health announces two new cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in King County
Today, Public Health - Seattle & King County announced two new suspected cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in King County residents. The new cases bring the total number of suspected cases in King County to four.

March 2003

March 31, 2003
Metro drives in Mariner fans . . . and drives them home too
Baseball season is here, and the Seattle Mariners once again have King County Metro Transit in their lineup. For only $2.50 each way, you can eliminate driving and parking hassles on your trips to Safeco Field.

March 31, 2003
Council approves savings for taxpayers
The Metropolitan King County Council’s unanimous approval today of two bond refinancing measures will have an impact on both property tax and sewer bills in King County.

March 31, 2003
Parks users get a role in operation, maintenance of parks system
The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously approved the framework for a program to assist user groups that want to help develop or maintain the county facilities they use for their recreational activities.

March 31, 2003
Metro and Sound Transit buses resume airport service April 2
At the start of scheduled service on Wednesday, April 2, 2003, King County Metro and Sound Transit buses will resume bus service back into Sea-Tac Airport.

March 31, 2003
Daylight-saving time transit information
On Saturday night, April 5, all Saturday service, operate on Pacific Standard Time.

March 28, 2003
Two suspected cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in Washington state
Two King County residents have been listed as the first suspected cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in Washington state. Both individuals were exposed outside of the United States, and there has been no evidence of transmission from these cases to other King County residents.

March 27, 2003
King County and Friends of Rock Creek partner to restore natural ecology of Cemetery Reach
Years of logging and development has damaged the stream ecology of a mile long segment of Rock Creek known as Cemetery Reach. Today, King County's Small Habitat and Restoration Program and Friends of Rock Creek have partnered to repair and restore the stretch that is home to many types of plants and wildlife, including returning salmon.

March 27, 2003
Credit rating systems reaffirm King County's strong debt ratings despite economic slowdown
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that both major United States credit rating systems - Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investors Service - confirmed their prior ratings of King County debt, with a "stable" outlook. Moody's continued its Aaa rating of the debt, the highest possible rating and Standard & Poor's confirmed its AA+ rating, one tick below its highest rating.

March 26, 2003
Airport-bound Metro and Sound Transit bus routes rerouted to avoid traffic
Until further notice, Metro and Sound Transit bus routes that serve Sea-Tac Airport are currently being rerouted to avoid lengthy traffic back-ups at the airport.

Mar. 26, 2003
Small Farm Expo kicks off Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m.
The 2nd annual Small Farm Expo, for Puget Sound - area small acreage landowners and farmers, is set for Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the King County Fairgrounds in Enumclaw.

Mar. 24, 2003
Overflow contained at Richmond Beach Pump Station
King County wastewater treatment workers responded quickly to an alarm about 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, that a pump at the Richmond Beach Pump Station in Shoreline had shut down, causing a small wastewater overflow onto county property.

March 24, 2003
Council approves transfer of pool, parks and community center to park district
The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously agreed to the transfer of North Bend’s Si View Park, Shamrock Park, and the Si View Community Center and Pool to the new Si View Metropolitan Park District.

March 24, 2003
Public Health receives federal grant for low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS
Public Health - Seattle & King County has been awarded more than $6.2 million in Ryan White CARE Act funding to support a variety of care services for low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS in King County.

March 24, 2003
Work on 2004 budget begins
The Metropolitan King County Council is laying the groundwork for the county’s 2004 budget with the first of four public forums discussing budget priorities Wednesday, March 26.

March 21, 2003
Message to Employees from Executive Sims: Employee information and monitoring of world events
King County government continues to closely monitor world events.

Friday, March 21
Ongoing expected disruptions in Downtown Seattle
Rallies and marches are expected to once again disrupt traffic in various parts of downtown Seattle this afternoon, starting at about Noon, and throughout the weekend, as well.

March 20, 2003
Public meeting, soil and groundwater tests planned for Hidden Lake Pump Station, sewer improvements
A contractor for King County's Wastewater Treatment Division will be conducting soil and groundwater investigations this April and May in west Shoreline.

March 20, 2003
Public Community Garden plots now available at Marymoor and North Green River parks
Community Garden plots are now available for rent at King County's Marymoor Park in Redmond and North Green River Park located between Kent and Auburn.

March 20, 2003
Family cultural celebration set March 29 at White Center Park
Families are invited to the White Center Park Community Center, 1321 SW 102nd, for a FREE cultural celebration -- Triple Scoop -- Saturday, March 29, from 1-4 p.m.

March 20, 2003
King County Government closely monitoring world events; Reports all county business and services secure and operating normally
With the Iraq war now fully underway, King County — like all public agencies throughout the United States — is operating under heightened security and awareness to ensure the safety of its citizens.

March 20, 2003
Downtown Seattle street disruptions
Rallies and marches are disrupting traffic in various parts of downtown Seattle this afternoon in the vicinity of the Federal Building, 4th Avenue and Westlake Park.

March 19, 2003
Statement from County Executive Ron Sims
President Bush’s announcement tonight has made us all pause and think about what the next steps may be for our country both on a global perspective and what it means to us here at home.

March 19, 2003
Message to employees from Executive Sims
"My first concern is for the safety of you and your families. It is important for us to look after the needs of ourselves, our loved ones and families. All of us in King County government will need to continue with our day-to-day activities of providing vital services to the residents within our boundaries. All of your hard work and dedication in providing these services is greatly appreciated."

March 19, 2003
Reroutes during downtown street disruptions
Under the current circumstances it is not possible to predict which streets or bus stops may be affected, or exactly when events will occur.

March 17, 2003
Sims announces new partnerships to move Northgate development and transportation hub forward
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced key agreements clearing the way for a major new transit center and transit-oriented development project at Northgate.

March 17, 2003
'Concerts at Marymoor' announces Moody Blues
The Puget Sound's newest outdoor summer concert venue, King County's Marymoor Park in Redmond, continued its momentum today with the announcement that the legendary rock band The Moody Blues will perform two shows in June.

March 14, 2003
Realigned section of Issaquah-Fall City Road now open to traffic on the Sammamish Plateau
A new, realigned section of the Issaquah-Fall City Road opened this afternoon for Sammamish Plateau traffic.

March 14, 2003
New road open on Sammamish Plateau
The King County Road Services Division opened the new section of Issaquah-Fall City Road between Southeast 58th Street and Issaquah-Pine Lake Road this afternoon. Barricades are being used to funnel traffic onto the new roadway, and motorists should use caution when driving through the area.

March 14, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on March 21
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, March 21, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Mar. 13, 2003
Snoqualmie crests at Carnation; Flood Warning Center closes
With the Snoqualmie River cresting below flood stage at Carnation early this afternoon, King County is closing its Flood Warning Center.

Mar. 13, 2003
Detectives ask for help from the public
The King County Sheriff's Office is requesting help from the public in identifying the suspect in a rape that occurred on Wednesday, March 12th, 2003 at 4 a.m. in the Covington area in south King County

Mar. 13, 2003
Road closures and conditions
Road crews are beginning to close several roads in the Snoqualmie Valley this morning after the Tolt and Snoqualmie river levels rose quickly late yesterday due to heavy rain and warm mountain temperatures.

Mar. 13, 2003
Minor flooding on Tolt and Snoqualmie rivers
The Tolt and Snoqualmie river levels rose quickly late yesterday but moderated over night causing only minor lowland flooding.

Mar. 12, 2003
King County hires new airport director
The King County Department of Transportation today announced the hiring of Bob Burke to be the new airport director for King County International Airport (KCIA), commonly known as Boeing Field.

Mar. 12, 2003
Late winter storm causing lowland flooding in Snoqualmie Valley
King County reports tonight it has activated its Flood Warning Center to monitor minor lowland flooding in the Snoqualmie Valley.

Mar. 12, 2003
King County Parks accepting Youth Sports Facility Grant applications
King County Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce a new application cycle for Youth Sports Facility Grants (YSFG). The YSFG program provides matching grant funds to community and youth organizations that partner with a public agency such as a school district or city parks department to develop, renovate, or repair sports facilities.

March 12, 2003
King County closely monitoring rivers for potential flooding
King County crews are closely watching river conditions this afternoon and are ready to respond if a late winter storm causes flooding.

Mar. 12, 2003
King County first in the nation to develop online tool for green building standards
King County is the first in the nation to develop an online tool to help design and construction professionals in this area comply with national standards for environmental performance.

March 12, 2003
Transit disruptions in SODO - 4 Av S corridor
A warehouse fire at 4th Av S & S Massachusetts St south of downtown Seattle has closed 4th Av S, the Metro Busway & 6th Av S in both directions between S Holgate St & S Royal Brougham Way.

March 10, 2003
Council debates parks levy
The King County Road Services Division will close a section of Quartermaster Drive on Vashon Island for three weeks to repair the adjacent seawall.

March 10, 2003
Quartermaster Drive on Vashon to close for seawall repairs
The King County Road Services Division will close a section of Quartermaster Drive on Vashon Island for three weeks to repair the adjacent seawall.

March 6, 2003
Detectives ask for help from the public
The King County Sheriff's Office is requesting the public's assistance in identifying two possible suspects in the attempted assaults of several women in the Shoreline area.

March 6, 2003
Natural Resources, Parks and Open Space Committee Sends Parks Levy to Council
A modest 5-cent, six-year levy to operate and maintain King County’s regional and rural Parks and Recreation system is a step closer to a possible May 20 public vote today after the Metropolitan King County Council’s Natural Resources, Parks and Open Space Committee unanimously approved the proposal.

Mar. 6, 2003
Puget Sound Fresh helps boost farmers market sales
Puget Sound residents know the freshest produce is locally grown. As a result of the Puget Sound Fresh program to promote these products, purchases at area farmers markets jumped as much as 20 percent in 2002.

March 5, 2003
King County, Seattle, and suburban cities call on Olympia to hold the line on critical human services
Acting without regard to jurisdictional boundaries, members of the Regional Policy Committee of the Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously endorsed a resolution calling on the 2003 session of the Washington State Legislature not to make the deep cuts now being considered to funding for mental health, General Assistance for the Unemployable, children’s block grants, the Housing Trust Fund, and the Basic Health Plan and other public health funding.

Mar. 5, 2003
Help improve salmon habitat along the SnoqualmieRiver
Help restore and improve salmon habitat by planting native trees and shrubs along the Snoqualmie River, March 15.

Mach 5, 2003
King County introduces online Clean Air Library
King County's work to reduce emissions and air pollution is highlighted in a new Web site designed by the Department of Natural Resources and Parks -- the King County Clean Air Library.

Mach 5, 2003
Public Health teams up with local youth and Seattle Sonics to promote clean indoor air
Public Health - Seattle & King County, the Washington State TeenLine and Seattle Public Schools are gathering local youth organizations to promote clean indoor air and the local state campaign, "Tobacco Smokes You" and "Secondhand Smokes You," during the Sonics game tonight at Key Arena.

February 2003

Feb. 28, 2003
Want to teach about your beach? Learn how at Beach Naturalist program orientation on March 13
King County is recruiting volunteers for the Beach Naturalist Program - a fun, hands-on project for local citizens who care about Puget Sound beaches and want to teach others to do the same.

Feb. 28, 2003
County seeks farmers to lease Kent Valley properties
King County is seeking farmers interested in leasing two properties in the Kent Valley. The land is part of the County's Farmland Preservation Program, which has permanently preserved nearly 13,000 acres of farmland countywide.

Feb. 28, 2003
Bequest to Metro will provide key transportation services for seniors and disabled in southeast Seattle
One woman’s generosity will soon enable King County Metro Transit to provide new transportation services to hundreds of people living in southeast Seattle.

Feb. 27, 2003
Public comment on critical area land use updates closes Friday; second draft due in May for further public comment
King County will close the public comment period on draft updates to its laws governing critical areas and stormwater Friday, Feb. 28. A revised second draft consolidating input received during the comment period will be released in May.

Feb. 27, 2003
Weekend closure scheduled for Cedar Mountain Bridge
The King County Road Services Division will close the Cedar Mountain Bridge between Renton and Maple Valley this Friday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. through Monday, March 3 at 5 a.m. for construction.

Feb. 27, 2003
King County seeks volunteers to dig Native Plants in Redmond
Join other volunteers digging up native trees and shrubs from a site scheduled to be cleared for homes. Salvaged plants will be potted and planted at future salmon habitat restoration projects around King County.

Feb. 26, 2003
Marymoor Concert Series gets first sell-out!
Norah Jones' popularity in King County was evident even before she swept the 2003 Grammy Awards Sunday night.

Feb. 26, 2003
GLY Construction, newest member of Construction Works, recognized for environmental leadership
GLY Construction, Inc. joins a select group of contractors as the newest member of King County's Construction Works program, which provides free assistance and recognition to builders who recycle, reduce waste and use recycled-content building materials.

Feb. 26, 2003
Metro bus vouchers help new workers connect to the workplace
King County Metro Transit is partnering to help new and re-trained workers handle the demands of a daily job commute.

Feb. 26, 2003
Another award for a King County "show" garden
King County's Local Hazardous Waste Management Program and In Harmony Organic Landscape Services have been awarded a bronze medal for their joint production of a show garden at the Northwest Flower & Garden Show.

Feb. 26, 2003
Come get the 'latest dirt' on small farming practices at the Small Farm Expo, March 29
Puget Sound-area small acreage landowners and farmers are invited to attend the 2nd annual Small Farm Expo, on Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the King County Fairgrounds in Enumclaw

Feb. 26, 2003
Environmental stewardship grant applications made easy with "Grant Exchange"
King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks (DNRP) is announcing Grant Exchange, a central online service that helps grant seekers to find information and to file applications at one location.

Feb. 24, 2003
Special food worker training/testing offered in North Bend on Feb. 27, 2003
Public Health - Seattle & King County will be conducting training and testing of food workers on Thursday, Feb. 27 at 4 p.m. at Mount Si Senior Center in North Bend. Those successfully completing the training and passing the required test will receive a Food Worker Card.

Feb. 21, 2003
King County Aquatic Center to receive lifesaving device
The Weyerhaeuser-King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way can expect its reputation for outstanding safety response to continue with the help of the Federal Way Kiwanis Club.

Feb. 21, 2003
Here's a chance to teach about your beach
King County is recruiting volunteers for the Beach Naturalist Program -- a fun, hands-on project for local citizens who care about Puget Sound beaches and want to teach others to do the same.

Feb. 21, 2003
Access to road near Redmond to close permanently
The King County Road Services Division is preparing to close Northeast 55th Place at its intersection with State Route 202.

Feb. 20, 2003
Sims proposes nickel levy for parks
King County Executive Ron Sims today proposed a modest 5-cent, six-year operating levy to protect the public investment in over 25,000 acres of parks, active recreation facilities, open space and trails. If approved by the King County Council, it would come before voters May 20 of this year.

Feb. 18, 2003
Concerts at Marymoor series announces first artist: Grammy-nominated Norah Jones!
A new outdoor concert series set this summer at King County's Marymoor Park in Redmond is off to a rousing start with the announcement that Grammy-nominated Norah Jones will perform at the park on August 5.

Feb. 18, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on February 21st
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, February 21, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at: King County Council Chambers, 10th Floor, King County Courthouse, 516 Third Avenue, Seattle.

Feb. 14, 2003
King County 'plants' educational booth with WSU Master Gardeners
King County employees and Washington State University Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners will join forces at the Northwest Flower and Garden Show to answer questions and provide natural yard care information.

Feb. 14, 2003
County terminates local District Court services due to budget constraints, move to regional mandates and services
King County Executive Ron Sims today notified 16 cities which contract with the County to provide District Court services that these services will be terminated by Jan. 1, 2005, providing cities and the County 22 months to make other arrangements for local court services, four months more notice than required under existing contracts.

Feb. 14, 2003
Transit Alert
On Saturday, Feb. 15, there will be a march from Seattle Center to the International District. It is anticipated that several thousand people may participate and that transit service in the downtown Seattle area could be disrupted.

Feb. 13, 2003
King County garden to 'show' environmentally friendly gardening practices
King County, partnering with In Harmony Landscape Services, will give new meaning to the term "show garden" when it presents live theater to communicate the many benefits of natural gardening practices. The garden will be featured at the Northwest Flower and Garden Show, Feb. 19-23, in Seattle.

Feb. 13, 2003
Agreement reached to save Kent Pool
King County Executive Ron Sims and Kent Mayor Jim White today announced that an agreement has been reached to save the Kent Pool. Under the agreement, the pool will be transferred to the City of Kent, enabling the pool to reopen to the public.

Feb. 13, 2003
Help create a forest wildlife corridor at Marymoor Park
Join dozens of volunteers gathering at King County's Marymoor Park near Redmond on Saturday, February 22, to help create a 60-foot-wide forest habitat corridor.

Feb. 12, 2003
King County seeks volunteers for salmon restoration projects along Snoqualmie River
Help restore and improve Snoqualmie River salmon habitat by planting native trees and shrubs along the Snoqualmie River, Feb. 22.

Feb. 12, 2003
King County launches annual roadside weed control program
The King County Road Services Division is scheduled to begin its roadside weed control program in unincorporated areas of the county and in the cities of Shoreline, Woodinville, Sammamish, Maple Valley, Covington and Burien beginning March 17.

Feb. 12, 2003
King County offering local salmon recovery efforts a boost
The King County WaterWorks grant program and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation are set to boost local salmon recovery projects with Community Salmon Fund grants.

Feb. 11, 2003
King County awards grants for synchronizing 82 traffic signals
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that nine local cities will share $410,000 in county grant funds to synchronize dozens of traffic signals. The funds will improve traffic movement along key corridors throughout the county by synchronizing signals with the flow of vehicles.

Feb. 11, 2003
Special food worker training/testing offered in Auburn on Feb. 20
Public Health - Seattle & King County will be conducting training and testing of food workers on Thursday, February 20 at 2:00 p.m. at the Auburn Eagles, located at 702 M Street SE in Auburn.

Feb. 11, 2003
'Smart' technology will link major transit systems
King County Executive Ron Sims today recommended a vendor to implement innovative new "Smart Card" technology that will link the fare collection systems of six major transit agencies.

Feb. 10, 2003
Memorandum decision and order on I776
King County Superior Court Judge Mary Yu today issued a ruling that I-776 is invalid under the Washington State Constitution.

Feb. 10, 2003
King County Parks update
This week was significant in the future of King County Parks. The Metropolitan Parks Task Force held its final meeting and issued a recommendation on future funding for parks, and we continued implementing new ways of doing business.

Feb. 7, 2003
Sims endorses local bid for 2006 Special Olympics
King County Executive Ron Sims today endorsed a local bid for the 2006 Special Olympics North American Championship Games. The bid will be submitted on Feb. 17, 2003, by a committee led by Bob Walsh, Bob Walsh Enterprises and the Seattle Sports Commission.

Feb. 7, 2003
Sims encourages King County Council to approve negotiated jail contracts
King County Executive Ron Sims today encouraged the King County Council to formally approve negotiated jail contracts with 37 cities, including Seattle and Bellevue, which will gradually shift their inmates to Yakima where costs are lower.

Feb. 7, 2003
Saltzman appointed to King County Board of Ethics
King County Executive Ron Sims this week appointed Jerry Saltzman as the fifth member on the King County Board of Ethics.

Feb. 6, 2003
Board of Health announces three new members
At its meeting on Friday, Jan. 24, the King County Board of Health appointed three new health professional members.

Feb. 6, 2003
Storm Report: Icy roads ahead (external link)
Even though the threat of rain and flooding has subsided for the time being, there are still winter road hazards to watch out for.

Feb. 5, 2003
King County premieres Threadcycle 2003
King County Solid Waste Division will kick off Threadcycle 2003, its first ever used clothing and textiles recovery program.

Feb. 4, 2003
King County announces partnerships to improve youth recreation facilities
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced that car rental taxes will be used to give youth sports and recreation facilities a much needed boost.

Feb. 4, 2003
Marymoor parking fee generates nearly $25,000 for parks in its first weekend
A new parking fee at Marymoor helped generate $24,730 for King County Parks in its first two days. The fee will provide partial operating support for King County Parks, which trimmed $10 million from its 2003 budget in response to the County's $52 million budget shortfall.

Feb. 5, 2003
Many wonderful cats available for adoption from King County
There are many wonderful cats and kittens sitting in King County Animal Control shelters, looking for new loving homes.

Feb. 4, 2003
If you live or work in Lake Forest Park, Shoreline, or the Northgate area of Seattle…
King County Metro Transit is considering changes to bus routes in north King County (Lake Forest Park, Shoreline, and Seattle north of Northgate).

Feb. 3, 2003
Marymoor Park parking passes
King County Parks and Recreation Division began selling Marymoor Park parking passes February 3, 2003. The passes cost $50 and are good through August 31, 2003 (February is a grace period for pass-holders).

Feb. 3, 2003
Black History Month
King County Executive Ron Sims proclaims February 2003 as Black History Month in King County.

Feb. 3, 2003
Road closures and conditions
As of 3:45 p.m. Feb. 3, King County reports the following road information.

Feb. 1, 2003
Snoqualmie River crests at Carnation, numerous roads closed
The Snoqualmie River crested at Carnation at 4 a.m. this morning as dry weather and lower freezing levels in the mountains have helped lower floodwaters.

January 2003

Jan. 31, 2003
Weather improving but flooding continues on Snoqualmie River
Rains have eased and freezing levels are dropping in the mountains which is helping to ease high water in the upper Snoqualmie Valley while the lower Snoqualmie River remains in Phase III flood stage.

Jan. 31, 2003
Snoqualmie River remains at Phase III flood status
The Snoqualmie River remains in a Phase III flood alert and several roads remain closed due to moderate flooding, but dropping temperatures and diminishing rainfall mean improving conditions in the upper Snoqualmie Valley.

Jan. 31, 2003
Jail study identifies potential savings in operating costs
The King County Auditor has provided the Metropolitan King County Council with a guide to evaluating the cost of operating the county’s two jails and how they can be operated more efficiently.

Jan. 31, 2003
Council to Inspect Ballot Facility, Vote on Elections Management
The Metropolitan King County Council will continue its review and oversight of the county’s absentee ballot process with a visit to the ballot processing center and action on the ordinance requiring Council confirmation of the top two positions in the King County Records, Elections and Licensing Services Division.

Jan. 31, 2003
Fair treatment in King County - free nondiscrimination training
King County has its own anti-discrimination laws that protect its residents from discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations (for example, theaters, restaurants and stores), and contracting.

Jan. 31, 2003
Snoqualmie River flood status upgraded to Phase III (external link)
The King County Flood Warning Center has upgraded the flood status of the Snoqualmie River to phase III and the status of the Green River in south King County to phase II. The Tolt River has been downgraded to phase I after cresting at 2:45 a.m. this morning.

Jan. 31, 2003
Phase II Flood Warning for Snoqualmie and Tolt rivers (external link)
King County opened its Flood Warning Center at 1 a.m. this morning to monitor minor lowland flooding on the Snoqualmie and Tolt Rivers.

Jan. 30, 2003
Metro’s kicks off 30th anniversary with special event at MOHAI
Metro Transit is inviting the public to a special event to kick off its anniversary, and explore more than 145 years of public transportation history in King County, on Saturday, Feb. 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), 2700 24th Ave. East, Seattle.

Jan. 30, 2003
Local teachers awarded for excellence in physical education
The King County Physical Activity Coalition is granting five public school physical educators with the 2nd Annual Excellence in Teaching Awards.

Jan. 30, 2003
Sims seeks nominations of Earth Heroes in local schools
King County Executive Ron Sims is asking the citizens of King County to help him identify those who are doing exceptional work on behalf of the environment in our local schools. They may be teachers, students, staff, specific programs or entire schools.

Jan. 29, 2003
Storm Report: More wet weather on the way (external link)
With heavy rain and relatively warmer temperatures forecast to move into the area over the next few days, King County is preparing for the possibility of more flood problems.

Jan. 29, 2003
King County, Corps of Engineers, Snoqualmie to sign agreement on flood reduction project today
King County, the City of Snoqualmie and the U.S. Corps of Engineers will gather in Snoqualmie today to celebrate the signing of an agreement to cooperate on a project designed to reduce chronic flooding in the Snoqualmie community.

Jan. 29, 2003
King County kicks off fever-thermometer exchange to reduce mercury in environment
Over 40 local pharmacies in King County will help collect and safely dispose of 30,000 mercury fever thermometers as part of the "Great Mercury Thermometer Exchange" campaign that kicks off on Thursday, January 30th at the Bellevue Bartell's located at 10116 NE 8th Street.

Jan. 29, 2003
Oral health grant links thousands of kids into integrated "teeth to toes" health care services
Kids Get Care, a program designed to link children to a health care home for preventive services and primary care regardless of insurance status, has received a second-year grant for $185,091 from the Washington Dental Service Foundation (WDSF).

Jan. 29, 2003
Feb. 4, 2003 special elections
King County reminds voters that Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2003, is an election day for most, but not all, King County voters.

Jan. 29, 2003
King County Medical Examiner's Office seeks public's help in identifying individual
The King County Medical Examiner's Office is attempting to identify the skeletal remains found in Newcastle on January 15, 2003. The decedent is a male, 24- 35 years of age, 5'3" to 5'8" in height.

Jan. 28, 2003
New Kent shuttle highlights Metro’s upcoming service changes
New DART service connecting the Kent Sounder Station with worksites in North Kent will begin in February, as part of King County Metro Transit’s seasonal service changes.

Jan. 27, 2003
Councilmembers express reservations about legislative agenda
Metropolitan King County Councilmembers David Irons and Kathy Lambert supported approval of the Tri-Association Legislative Agenda today, while expressing reservations about how some of its provisions will be used.

Jan. 27, 2003
Easement ensures Taylor Mountain Forest preservation
The Metropolitan King County Council continues its effort to preserve the county’s rural forestland with today’s approval of an ordinance authorizing the executive to grant a conservation easement for the Taylor Mountain Forest to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources in exchange for a Forest Legacy Grant of $2.8 million.

Jan. 27, 2003
Road closures and conditions
King County Road Services reports the following road closure updates due to the recent flooding conditions in the Snoqualmie Valley area.

Jan. 26, 2003
Flood conditions continue to ease in the Snoqualmie Valley
The King County Flood Warning Center reports flood conditions continue to improve tonight in the Snoqualmie Valley following moderate flooding along the Snoqualmie and Tolt rivers earlier today. Heavy rain during the night caused the rivers to rise quickly today, causing flooding in low lying areas of the valley.

Jan. 26, 2003
Flooding continues in the Snoqualmie Valley
The King County Flood Warning Center reports the Snoqualmie River is now cresting at Snoqualmie Falls, setting a trend for improving flood conditions in East King County following last night's heavy rainstorm.

Jan. 26, 2003
Snoqualmie River flooding now in Phase III
The Snoqualmie River has reached Phase III flood level, meaning moderate flooding in low-lying areas of the upper Snoqualmie Valley. Roads are expected to close throughout the valley later today as the water moves through the river system, although the only road closure at this time in King County in Skykomish due to flooding there.

Jan. 26, 2003
King County Flood Warning Center open to monitor Snoqualmie Valley rivers
King County opened its Flood Warning Center at about 6 a.m. to monitor rising waters in the Snoqualmie and Tolt rivers.

Jan. 24, 2003
King County opens new Community Service Center
King County Executive Ron Sims announced three important service modifications to the King County Community Service Center program: a new Community Service Center location, the addition of passport sales to four existing service centers, and schedule changes at four locations.

Jan. 23, 2003
Senate victory for Community Access Program will bring local benefits
Today, Senator Patty Murray's amendment to the Omnibus Spending bill was adopted with unanimous consent, successfully restoring $120 million in fiscal year 2003 for the Community Access Program (CAP). The bill will go to conference with the House once the Senate completes its work on the package. CAP provides the seed money that gives community health care agencies the ability to build partnerships to better serve vulnerable populations, like the uninsured.

Jan. 23, 2003
Patterson requests removal of Orillia Road site from consideration for sx offender facility
King County Councilmember Julia Patterson today requested that the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) withdraw the Orillia Road site from consideration for a facility to house sexual offenders.

Jan. 21, 2003
King, Pierce and Snohomish county residents to discuss protecting Puget Sound (external link)
The Puget Sound Action Team's (Action Team) advisory organization, the Puget Sound Council, will host a regional meeting in Tukwila next week to talk with King, Pierce and Snohomish county residents about protecting and improving the health of Puget Sound.

Jan. 17, 2003
King County Parks update
Executive Sims updates residents on the status of King County parks.

Jan. 17, 2003
King County Board of Health meeting on Jan. 24
The King County Board of Health will hold its next meeting on Friday, January 24, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.

Jan. 16, 2003
King County Aquatic Center hosts first trials for 2004 Olympic Games tomorrow
Media advisory: The 2003 U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Synchronized Swimming Duet, begins tomorrow at the Weyerhaeuser-King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way, running Jan. 17 through Jan. 20.

Jan. 15, 2003
Now is an excellent time for flu shot
Influenza ("flu") has arrived in King County, but Public Health - Seattle & King County is announcing that the peak of the flu season has not arrived and there is still time to get vaccinated and protected from influenza.

Jan. 15, 2003
Carnation removed from DSHS list as possible site of sex-predator housing
Metropolitan King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert applauded the role of community involvement in today’s announcement that the state Department of Social and Health Services has removed a property in Carnation as a potential site for a Secure Community Transition Facility (SCTF) that may have housed convicted sex predators.

Jan. 14, 2003
Feb. 4, 2003 special election
King County will be holding a special election on Feb. 4, 2003. On the ballot are a number of district bond and levy measures in addition to the formation of a metropolitan park district and a proposed merger of two water districts.

Jan. 14, 2003
Drug deaths increase in King County in early 2002
The Alcohol and Drug Abuse Institute (ADAI) at the University of Washington published a report showing an increase in heroin-related and cocaine-related deaths in the first half of 2002, following declines in 2001.

Jan. 13, 2003
Public Health awarded grants to reduce secondhand smoke exposure and help students quit smoking
Seattle & King County's Tobacco Prevention Program has received three grants for a total of $225,000 from the Washington State Department of Health to reduce tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke.

Jan. 13, 2003
Sims cuts ribbon on new corridor connecting Sammamish Plateau to I-90
The first half of a new transportation corridor opened near Issaquah today that will eventually serve more than 50,000 local residents, and ease congestion for up to 120,000 motorists on Interstate 90 every weekday.

Jan. 10, 2003
King County Parks update
Executive Sims updates residents on the status of King County parks.

Jan. 10, 2003
King County to begin work on 140th Avenue SE
The King County Road Services Division will begin work Monday on a $20 million project to improve a 1.4-mile stretch of 140th Avenue Southeast between Southeast Petrovitsky Road and Southeast 197th Place in the Fairwood community.

Jan. 8, 2003
Join hundreds spending Martin Luther King Day Volunteering at Marymoor Park
King County residents are invited to join as many as 400 people, perhaps more, who will honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., by volunteering at Marymoor Park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. as part of a King County community service project.

Jan. 6, 2003
King County Parks partners with Nature Vision to keep environmental education programs alive
King County Executive Ron Sims today announced a new partnership between the county and the non-profit organization Nature Vision that will keep environmental education classes alive in King County schools.

Jan. 6, 2003
Transit's Martin Luther King, Jr. Day schedule
Get the latest information about the Jan. 20 holiday schedule.

Jan. 6, 2003
Colman Park tree cutting announcement
Read the statement from Norm Maleng, King County Prosecuting Attorney.

Jan. 6, 2003
Storm Report: Resolve to make storm preparedness a priority
The afternoon of Dec. 26, 2002 found our region in the midst of a strong windstorm with downed trees and power lines and closed roads.

Jan. 2, 2003
Task force detectives ask for help from the public
During the early to mid-1980’s numerous women were contacted by local law enforcement in and around known areas of prostitution. Green River Task Force detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying and locating these women. We have set up a link on our web site at http://www.metrokc.gov/sheriff/grnrvr.htm with photographs and additional information regarding these women.