WE DID IT! A Generational Investment in Mental Health and Addiction Recovery
Exciting news to share with you: after a year of a lot of work on this, my legislation to invest $1.25 billion in improving our behavioral health system passed unanimously out of our full Council. The Crisis Care Centers initiative will build a network of walk-in centers for people around the region to access mental health care and substance abuse disorder treatment. It will also build back our long term recovery bed capacity and support a strained workforce in this industry. Real Change had a great article on this topic last month if you’d like to learn more.
The measure will now go to the April ballot for King County voters (you!) to make the final decision on the funding source.
For those interested in my thoughts on the matter, my full opening remarks at the Council can be found at this link. Additionally, for more information on the proposal, please click here.
Watch my remarks at the Council meeting here:
 Behavioral Health Services Hotline
Last year, a historic step was taken with the passing of legislation to establish a 988 hotline for behavioral health services. This new line will not only simplify the current complex system of crisis response but also expand access to crucial crisis services.
Our office is committed to following and supporting these efforts, and we are especially keeping an eye on two important bills - HB 1134 and SB 5120. For those who want to stay informed, click here for information on HB 1134, and here for information on SB 5120.
Stay tuned for more updates on our efforts.
Missing Middle Housing Legislation
Our mission to address the housing crisis through the creation of "missing middle" housing options has taken a major step forward. Our Missing Middle Housing motion passed unanimously out of the Council. This motion will pave the way for the construction of more modestly sized multi-family homes such as duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes in King County, in a way that aligns with our goals for both rural and urban unincorporated areas.
We are committed to making a positive impact on the housing crisis and appreciate your support. For more information about the motion, click here. You can watch my remarks by clicking below.
 Black History Month Proclamation
We’d like to share a moment of recognition and celebration with you. The King County Council recently read a proclamation in honor of Black History Month at its full council meeting on February 7th. The proclamation calls on all residents to join in honoring the countless contributions of African Americans to our nation and the world, not just during this special month, but throughout the year.
Let us continue to pay homage to the contributions of African Americans and celebrate their achievements. Click here to read the full proclamation.
Condemning Antisemitism
Last month, the King County Council presented a proclamation of the Council’s condemnation of antisemitism in recognition of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
The words “never again” are seared into our collective conscience. We will always remember the six million Jewish people murdered during the Holocaust and we commit to protecting our Jewish neighbors from rising antisemitism around the world.
Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services
Since 2006, the King County Veterans and Human Services Levy has funded a wide range of programs that connect veterans, military service members and their families, as well as individuals and families in need with affordable housing, employment, behavioral health treatment, and other services. In 2017 voters approved the Veterans Seniors and Human Services Levy, adding funding for services to King County seniors and their families. The current levy expires in December 2023.
The King County Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) is undergoing renewal planning efforts to prepare for the next ballot measure to renew the Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy. The VSHSL has been a great resource for thousands of King County residents. Here are some highlights of their work in the District 2 area:
- In 2018, VSHSL funded LIHI construction of Othello Park Apartments, a 93-unit project that includes 30 units specifically for veterans and senior veterans. The project completed construction and opened in late 2021.
- POCAAN, located in District Two, and Alliance of People with DisAbilities are partnering with Pacific Associates to provide employment training, placement, and support to return individuals with disabilities to work and assisting them with accommodations.
- Urban Family Center Association uses the VSHSL funding to provide community safety and youth-focused violence prevention and response efforts focused on Skyway and Renton.
- Northwest Immigrant Rights Project provides a range of legal services to help immigrant and refugee adults through the expanded legal defense network.
- Survivor-Centered Mobile Advocacy for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. The VSHSL’s mobile advocacy programs, including API Chaya and Multi-Communities, provide confidential, survivor-driven, and trauma-informed support to survivors of gender based violence.
Learn more about the VSHSL and how to support it by clicking here.
$1 fare for ORCA LIFT riders starts March 1st
Beginning on March 1st, ORCA LIFT riders will only have to pay $1 for public transportation. These cards are available to low-income households, seniors, and those with disabilities. Click here to learn more and to apply for a reduced fare card.
Skyway Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project
We are thrilled to announce the completion of the final phase of the pedestrian safety project in Skyway. Our King County Road Services team worked hard to install new sidewalks, bike lanes, paving, and guardrails, and improve pedestrian safety around schools.
Despite facing two major winter storms, our crews plowed and sanded more than 7,500 lane miles and answered over 1,700 customer service calls. They also removed trash from roads, patched potholes, and repaired or replaced over 15,000 signs.
This project will greatly improve safety for pedestrians and bicycles on Renton Avenue S between 68th Avenue S and S 112th Street. A new section of sidewalk and a wider bike lane has been added along the west side of the road and a new eight-foot-wide shared pedestrian and bike path has been created on the east side. The project also improved street lighting in the area, making it easier to see and be seen by oncoming traffic.
We hope you will enjoy the improved pedestrian safety in the area. For more information, please visit the King County Road Services website.
Finished Subarea Plans for Skyway/West Hill
We are excited to share with you that the King County Council voted to adopt the Skyway/West Hill Community Plans in December. These plans are a result of a year-long collaboration between planners and members of the community to craft a vision for the future and establish policies to help achieve that vision.
We encourage you to visit the Skyway/West Hill plan website to learn more about the plan and how it will impact our community.
Support for the Brave Women of Iran
Last month, I joined Councilmember Rod Dembowski and my fellow members of the King County Council in a show of solidarity with the courageous women of Iran. We proudly proclaimed our support for these women and all Iranian citizens who are bravely fighting for their basic rights against an oppressive regime.
Together, we will continue to use our voices to support those who are suffering and to advocate for human rights and dignity for all.
 Rainier Beach High School Safety Listening Session
I recently had the privilege of visiting Rainier Beach High School for a School Safety Town Hall. This event was an opportunity for our youth in Southeast Seattle to share their thoughts and concerns about safety in their schools and communities.
It was truly inspiring to hear directly from our youth and to gain a better understanding of what they need to feel safe. However, it was also deeply troubling to hear that many students currently do not feel safe in their schools and communities. The panel consisted of current students, graduates, and community members, who shared insightful perspectives and offered meaningful solutions.
For those who are interested in hearing directly from the panelists, visit this link. We must prioritize the safety and well-being of our youth, and do all that we can to address their concerns and make positive changes.
 Ribbon Cutting for New Columbia City Theater
Last week, I had the honor of participating in cutting the ribbon at Rainieravenueradio.world's new home in the Columbia City Theater, alongside King County Councilmember Larry Gossett. This special moment was especially poignant during Black History Month, as we celebrated the return of Black media and community to Columbia City in the face of gentrification and displacement. Our congratulations go out to Tony B and the entire Rainieravenueradio.world team for their hard work and dedication in making this new home a reality.
 Funding for healthy food delivery in Skyway
Last month, I had my first ever big check photo opportunity, and I have to admit, it felt pretty official. But, of course, I'm only kidding. I'm honored to be in a position where I can support organizations such as Urban Food Systems Pact in Skyway, who are making a real impact in our communities. They're working tirelessly on the ground to improve our food systems, provide meals to those in need, and connect people to jobs and resources. I'm so impressed by their commitment to our community, and I hope you'll take a moment to visit their website to learn more about their work and how you can support them.
 Addressing Pedestrian Safety in the South End
I recently paid a visit to Creston Point, a low-income apartment complex situated near a busy freeway. The lack of pedestrian safety measures for the hundreds of residents, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities, is a major concern. During my visit, I witnessed a frightening sight of children getting off the bus and walking on the freeway with no protection from oncoming traffic. It is imperative that we take immediate action to ensure their safety. We have been working on long-term solutions such as a pedestrian bridge, but we need short-term responses now before someone gets hurt.
I am proud to have secured $1,000,000 for road safety in unincorporated King County in the biennial budget, and Creston Point seems like the perfect place to invest some of these funds. Our goal is to install speed bumps, slow-down signs, and guard rails while also reducing the speed limit on the highway around the entrance, similar to a school zone.
Click here to view a video of my visit to Creston Point and learn more about the issue.
 Combating Gender-Based Violence
Last month, I had the privilege of attending the King County Women's Advisory Board meeting, in recognition of the ongoing efforts to combat gender-based violence. Alongside Councilmember Claudia Balducci, I was inspired by the thoughtful discussions and insightful recommendations presented by the Board to address this critical issue.
The dedication and hard work of the Women's Advisory Board members was evident in their comprehensive report, and I am grateful for the opportunity to hear their perspectives and support their efforts. Let us continue to raise our voices and take action to put an end to gender-based violence.
For more information on the Women's Advisory Board and their efforts, visit their website.
Speaking Up for Tyre Nichols and Our Black Community
Last week, I had the opportunity to join Besa Gordon on Converge Media to discuss a very important and tragic issue. We expressed our heartfelt condolences to the family of Tyre Nichols, who tragically lost his life in recent events. During our discussion, we touched upon the impact of viewing graphic footage on the Black community and how many people are taking steps to protect their mental health.
It is a sad reality that in this day and age, people need to take such precautions to avoid being traumatized by the constant barrage of distressing news. I deeply appreciate the efforts of those who are working to raise awareness and bring about positive change in these difficult times.
To listen to my full conversation with Besa Gordon, click here.
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Month
As we kick off Black History Month, I wanted to share some exciting news with you. Last month, the King County Council officially proclaimed January 2023 as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Month in our county.
To honor the memory of this human rights leader and our county's namesake, the King County Council hosted a celebration which was live streamed for all to enjoy on King County TV. If you missed the event, you can still watch it online. Take a moment to reflect on Dr. King's teachings and recommit to the work of making his vision of equality and justice a reality for all.
 My Article in the Seattle Medium: Dr. King and Healthcare Justice
Every year on Martin Luther King Day, I write in the Seattle Medium about how Dr. King's message remains relevant to our community today. This year, I focused on a particularly pressing issue - healthcare injustice. Dr. King called it "the most shocking & inhumane" form of injustice and I believe it's important to continue this conversation in our community.
You can read my thoughts on this issue by clicking this link. I hope you find my perspective insightful and thought-provoking.
Human Trafficking Awareness Month
It’s important to highlight King County Council's recent proclamation of January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month in King County.
Human trafficking is a serious and pervasive issue that affects people from all walks of life. It is essential that we work together to end this modern-day form of slavery and help those who have been affected by it. To get or give help, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
Community Needs Lists
Together with the communities we serve, Local Services developed community needs lists for each community we serve. These lists provide input for King County agencies as they develop their budgets. This is the first time residents of unincorporated areas have had a way to submit their priorities directly to the county. What are your priorities for your unincorporated King County area? Share your thoughts! Submit your feedback on the public outreach site.
Participatory Budgeting Program holds historic community vote on future projects for King County
After more than a year of creating the framework for the Participatory Budgeting process, King County held its first community driven vote in August. More than 2,600 ballots were cast, online and on paper, by community members to choose 45 projects for King County to fund. In its first cycle, the Participatory Budgeting program identified 47 projects for King County to address in five urban unincorporated areas (East Federal Way, East Renton, Fairwood, Skyway/West Hill, and White Center/North Highline). All of these projects were nominated and chosen by members of the communities they will serve. Guiding this historic community vote was our biggest story of 2022.
The next Participatory Budgeting cycle, for 2023-2024, will kick off in January with open applications for new steering committee members.
To learn more, visit the Participatory Budgeting outreach website, read this blog post or email Gloria Briggs.
Join the King County Library System Board of Trustees
King County is accepting applications from King County residents interested in an appointment to the King County Library System (KCLS) board of trustees. Individuals seeking appointment to the KCLS Board of Trustees should have interest and experience in the following areas: Support for intellectual freedom and the role of public libraries, prior service on a governing board preferred but not required, basic understanding of budgeting and finance - public finance a plus and applicants must reside outside the Downtown Seattle Public Library boundary. Trustees serve 5-year terms with a 2-term limit. Cultural and geographic diversity is essential to meet the library needs of King County communities. Residents of South King County are encouraged to apply.
Please contact Rick Ybarra, Liaison for Boards and Commissions, if you have any questions.
Join the Washington Family Relief Fund Steering Committee
The Washington State Legislature allocated $5.5 million to aid families at risk for child abuse/neglect who were negatively impacted by COVID-19. Scholar Fund will create an open application process to issue a one-time $250 cash grant per child to eligible families. The Washington Family Relief Fund Statewide Steering Committee seeks to assist in guiding the priorities for the Fund’s distribution model of first come, first served. The steering committee will advise on the grant application and eligibility determination process and will meet from December to June, 2023. The Steering Committee will consist of up to 9 total members whose primary goal is to gather experience from those who work with and for the prioritized populations served by this program. In addition, those with experience in administering or participating in relief funds will receive additional consideration.
Steering Committee Members will be compensated at a rate of $100 per hour and work a maximum of five hours a week, with a maximum of up to $3,000 depending on the number of meetings. Apply to be on the Steering Committee here.
King Conservation District Strategic Planning Listening Sessions
King Conservation District is preparing a strategic plan for the next 5 years and we invite you to join one of our listening sessions which will be held on February 11 and February 27. The listening sessions are opportunities for you to shape KCD’s strategic planning and for KCD to learn more about your conservation priorities and experience with KCD.
For more information visit the King Conservation District website.
Seattle Fire Department responding to historic number of overdose calls
The fire department said it has responded to more than 5,200 overdose calls in the last 12 months. It also shared links to the health department and resources to help people beat addiction. The news of the historic number of overdoses has drawn a lot of concern from many people. Though the rise in overdoses is alarming, there are resources throughout the Emerald City to help people. Read this article by MyNorthwest to learn more about this issue and what is being done to help.
Tamarind Tree Shigella Outbreak in Seattle, WA Sickens 17
Public Health is investigating an outbreak of Shigellosis associated with Tamarind Tree Restaurant in Seattle. Symptoms reported include diarrhea, cramps, nausea, fever, chills, and vomiting. As of January 27, 2023, 17 people from 7 separate meal parties reported becoming ill after eating food from the Tamarind Tree Restaurant. These 17 people ate at this restaurant on January 15, 16, and 17, 2023. Investigators closed the restaurant during their visit on January 24, 2023. The restaurant was required to complete a thorough cleaning and disinfection. Learn more about what the County is doing to curb this outbreak here.
Skyway youths learn about transportation opportunities through Metro Equity Internships
King County Metro is expanding its youth programs, creating new opportunities for young leaders to learn about public transportation and how mobility access affects local communities.
In August, Metro hosted its first community-specific high school youth internship program in the Skyway/Renton area. Out of 150 applications, 12 young leaders were chosen for this paid educational opportunity.
The interns collaborated on digital social media projects and a community mural, and went on field trips to get up-close perspectives on the diversity of transit careers available. They also participated in workshops related to sustainability, urban planning, and local government processes, and had conversations with industry leaders and local and state elected officials.
Read more on the Metro Matters Blog.
King County’s Department of Natural Resources and Parks Internship Programs
The county’s Waste Treatment Division offers paid teen and college internships, operator-in-training programs, and career events. Learn more on their Internships and Career Exploration web page. Applications start in February.
King County Parks offers paid summer teen internships through its Youth Conservation Corps. The 2023 application period will open in late winter. Learn more on the program website.
Child Care Resources
Last year the King County Council allocated $7 million to help families impacted by the pandemic with the cost of child care. If you live or work in King County and your income or health has been affected by COVID you may be eligible. Learn more here http://bit.ly/40HiE35
 Working Families Tax Credit
Applications for the Working Families Tax Credit are now open! The Working Families Tax Credit is a new tax refund that helps Washington workers and their families get more money back at tax time. The refund returns a portion of sales tax paid each year and is modeled after the federal Earned Income Tax Credit program.
You could receive up to $1,200 back if you met certain eligibility requirements. For more information and to apply, go to the website here. Apply now through December 31st, 2023.
King County Conservation Futures grants
King County is seeking applications for 2024 King County Conservation Futures grants. Conservation Futures grants can help acquire parks and open spaces for passive recreation such as urban greenspaces, natural areas, forests, community gardens, farms, and trails.
Grants can be awarded to cities, the county, park districts, and eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit nature conservancies and historic preservation associations. Community groups or individuals may partner on projects with local agencies and eligible nonprofits. Acquisitions in historically underserved areas may qualify for a match waiver to cover the full purchase price.
Applications are due on Monday, March 6th, 2023. For more information, click here
U District Partnership announces $4.85M grant fund to support U District small business improvements
The U District Partnership is excited to officially launch the new U District Vitality Grants Program - a $4.85 million fund that will provide grants to small businesses and nonprofit organizations in the University District to invest in cleaning and/or fixed asset improvements such as remodeling, renovating, upgrading and purchasing specialized equipment. The Storefront Cleaning Grant awards up to a $1,000 to remove graffiti, clean awnings, pressure wash your storefront, and other cleaning services to refresh your exterior facade. The Tenant Improvement Grants , repair, restore, and renovate your business storefront with up to a $200,000 grant for fixed asset improvements including new awnings, interior/exterior signage, repainting, outdoor dining infrastructure and more.
The deadline for Cleaning Fund and Tenant Improvement Fund applications is February 22nd, 2023 at 5 p.m. PDT. To review eligibility guidelines, frequently asked questions, and steps on how to apply, please visit the grant overview page at udistrictpartnership.org.
$25 Million Grants to Start to Address Racism is a Public Health Crisis
The Gathering Collaborative along with the King County government invites you, our community and business partners across the region to join us in continuing the critical work to undo the harms of systemic racism, which was declared a public health crisis by King County in 2020.
We are embarking on a new way to think about grant applications and making awards. We want to learn about what you are already doing on the ground to reach underserved people in Black and Indigenous communities in this region. We know you have shown up and done tremendous work and invite you to showcase your excellence. In this grant process, we are asking you: How can we support?
The application deadline is March 6th, 2023 and you can apply via King County's Zoom Grants portal. We encourage all applicants to read over the Grant Program Overview and the Invitational Document for important details such as reporting and other legal requirements.
ARTS Neighborhood Recovery Grant
The Historic South Downtown opened applications for its ARTS Neighborhood Recovery Grant, funded by Seattle’s Office of Arts and Culture. This funding is for events, activations and cultural activities in Pioneer Square and Chinatown-International District. Other Lead Agencies are providing funding for other Seattle neighborhoods.
Applications are due on March 6, 2023 by 6 p.m. PST. Read this email announcement, or visit this website for more information including how to apply.
King County Metro: Artist in Residence
4Culture, in partnership with King County Metro, seeks an experienced and motivated planning artist (or team of artists) to participate in a two-year residency during which time they will develop a plan for transit-related public art projects to be implemented over the coming decade.
Applications are due by 4PM on Tuesday, February 14th. Apply now at this link. For more details, please visit the grant website here, or if you have questions, please contact Jordan Howland at jordan.howland@4culture.org.
Home-Based Services RFP
The Home-Based Services (HBS) strategy provides voluntary, relationship-based support to pregnant people and caregivers of children aged birth to five in the places they live. Home visitors deliver information, resources, and social connections to support healthy births, positive parenting, health education, child development, safe home environments, and school readiness.
Applications are due by 5PM on Tuesday, February 21st. Apply now at this link. If you have questions, please contact Phillip Thompson at phithompson@kingcounty.gov.
Community Driven Behavioral Health RFP
This RFP seeks to fund Small Organizations to provide community-driven behavioral health services that support the behavioral health needs within their own communities in King County. Successful applications for the resulting Community Driven Grants will support the development, strengthening and/or implementation of creative, innovative, culturally, and linguistically responsive approaches. There is a total of $1.75 million to be allocated.
A specific, though related, funding opportunity will also be awarded to an organization through this RFP to pilot an Art Therapy approach to community identified behavioral health needs!
Applications are due by 2PM on Wednesday, February 22nd, apply now at this link. For more details, please visit the grant website here, or if you have questions, please contact Andria Howerton at dchscontracts@kingcounty.gov.
4Culture Arts, Heritage, and Preservation Projects
4Culture Project grants can help you put your ideas in motion and share them with King County. They award Project grants in three disciplines: arts, heritage, and preservation.
For more details, please visit the grant websites below:
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Arts Projects: For artists and arts groups to create new work, pursue opportunities, pay for materials, and more (contact: Melissa Newbill at melissa.newbill@4culture.org)
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Heritage Projects: Funds individuals and organizations documenting, sharing, and interpreting King County heritage (contact: Megumi Nagata at megumi.nagata@4culture.org)
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Preservation Projects: Supports the people, supplies, studies, plans, programs, and more that protect our historic places (contact: Dana Phelan at dana.phelan@4culture.org)
Applications for each of the three grants are due by 5PM on Thursday, March 23rd. Apply now at this link.
Working Connections Child Care
Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) helps eligible families pay for childcare. When a family qualifies for subsidy benefits and chooses a provider, the state pays a portion of the cost of childcare. Parents may be responsible for a copayment to their provider each month. Families experiencing homelessness may be approved for up to 12 months to help resolve issues surrounding homelessness.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply now at this link. For more details, please visit the grant website here, or if you have questions, please email providerhelp@dcyf.wa.gov or call 1-800-394-4571.
U.S. Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a U.S. Government program that helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more. The benefit provides a discount to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply now at this link. For more details, please visit the grant website here.
Emergency and Unforeseen Funds
4Culture's Emergency and Unforeseen grants meet a wide variety of unexpected facility needs for cultural organizations, and their funds are available for actual costs incurred to repair or renovate cultural spaces.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply now at this link. For more details, please visit the grant website here, or if you have questions, please email Dana Phelan at dana.phelan@4culture.org.
The Healthy Communities and Parks Fund
The voter-approved Parks, Recreation, Trails and Open Space Levy has $33.6 million available for grants to support parks, recreation, and open space in 2023. The HCPF supports projects that increase access to recreation, parks, and open space in underserved communities. HCPF intends to reduce health disparities in underserved communities and invest in their capacities to meet the unique needs of their residents.
Visit the Parks Grants website for details—including eligibility, and how to apply. Applications for 2023 grants will be accepted from January 17 through March 15. Stay updated by signing up for the Parks Grants e-mail list or registering for upcoming webinars about these grant programs—or send email to ParksGrants@kingcounty.gov.
Open 4Culture Funds
Through this grant -- which has no deadline -- 4Culture awards amounts up to $1,500 to cultural doers serving underserved populations across the county. Artists and arts groups operating outside of Seattle and those working in Heritage and Preservation anywhere in King County may apply.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply now at this link. For more details, please visit the program website here, or if you have questions, please email Melissa Newbill at melissa.newbill@4culture.org.
King County Child Care Financial Assistance Program
King County has allocated $7 million of its federal ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funding to support King County families with the cost of their child care. Eligible families may receive financial assistance to pay for their child care at eligible providers.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Apply now at this link. For more details, please visit the grant website here, or if you have questions, please email KingCCFA@childcare.org.
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