December News Update and Upcoming Events

As Chair of the budget committee, I am proud of the budget that the King County Council unanimously approved. The 2019-2020 budget includes investments in public safety, affordable housing and transportation in South King County. It also demonstrates sound financial planning with healthy reserves and our AAA bond rating intact, allowing the County to borrow at low rates to save taxpayer money.

This budget will improve transit access in South King County. We increased bus service by over 200,000 hours, and expanded a low or no-cost fare program for lower-income riders. The City of Renton will also receive funding to study increased transportation opportunities for more access, including to a new potential privately funded water taxi.

Housing affordability remains a critical issue across the County. We invested in affordable housing for working families in South King County. The Renton Housing Authority will benefit from county funding for a housing development in the Renton Highlands as a part of the Sunset area revitalization efforts. We also included money to preserve existing affordable housing – to minimize displacement, and keep families living and working in their communities.

Public safety is a responsibility I take very seriously. The steps taken in this budget will increase our ability to prevent and respond to crime in South County cities. The newly funded King County Sheriff's Office gang unit will also focus specifically on rising gang crime rates, while conducting community engagement efforts. By funding innovative and effective pre-trial and diversion programs, we are working to reduce recidivism and allow low-level offenders to become productive members of society. 

Thank you to those of you who engaged in this process – either by commenting online at our virtual town hall, sending an email, or testifying at one of our many public meetings. To learn more about the new budget, please visit our budget website.