Quote of the Week
“There is always light. If only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it.”
– Amanda Gorman, 2021
 Government Accountability and Oversight Committee
During Tuesday’s meeting, the Committee took action on ordinances concerning King County district court electoral district boundaries for 2023, new translated voting materials, and the servicing of summons and processing of lawsuits by King County. For more information or to watch a recording of the meeting, click here.
Full Council
 During Tuesday’s meeting, the Council presented a proclamation led by Councilmember Claudia Balducci of May 7th - 13th as Affordable Housing Week in King County, and a separate proclamation of May 12th as Childcare Provider Appreciation Day, led by Councilmember Sarah Perry. The Council also took action on several ordinances concerning agreement with recommendations from the hearing examiner to approve the application for a public benefit rating system of assessed valuation for open space. For more information or to watch a recording of the meeting, click here.
Flood Control District Board of Supervisors
 During Tuesday’s meeting, the Board received a briefing on the Lower Green River Corridor Flood Hazard Management Plan. The Board also took action on resolutions to amend the rules and operating procedures of the King County Flood Control Zone District; to authorize the director of King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks to execute a quit claim deed related to a property transfer, and to approve a template for grant agreements. For more information or to watch a recording of the meeting, click here.
Budget and Fiscal Management Committee
During Wednesday’s meeting, the Committee took action on an ordinance abolishing a county fund and transferring any remaining net assets and fund balance. The Committee also took action on ordinances authorizing the issuance of limited tax general obligation bonds of the county, and approving specification for the provision of banking services. We also heard briefings on the omnibus supplemental budget and on the proposed sewer rates and capacity charges. For more information or to watch a recording of the meeting, click here.
 Transportation, Economy, and Environment Committee
At next Tuesday’s meeting at 9:30 a.m., the Committee will receive several briefings, including some concerning information from the Metro General Manager, fare-free transit, green jobs strategy, proposed changes on the Conservation Futures Tax, and the establishment of the Forest Carbon Program. For more information on this meeting and how to join it, click here.
Full Council
At next Tuesday’s meeting at 1:30 p.m., Councilmember Reagan Dunn will lead the Council's presentation of the proclamation of May 14th – 20th as Police Week in King County, and I will lead the recognition of Syttende Mai or 17th of May Norwegian Constitution Day. The Council will also likely take action on several of the Executive’s reappointments as well as on a motion sponsored by Councilmember Rod Dembowski and me requesting the executive to evaluate programs to reduce the average daily population in King County adult secure detention facilities and provide funding recommendations. For more information on this meeting and how to join it, click here.
Employment and Administration Committee
At next Tuesday’s meeting at 2:00 p.m., the Committee will receive both a Human Resources and a Chief of Staff update. The Committee will also likely take action on a motion to approve the job descriptions for positions within the office of public complaints/tax advisor. For more information on this meeting and how to join it, click here.
Committee of the Whole
At next Wednesday’s meeting at 9:30 a.m., the Committee which I chair will receive several briefings, including on the King County Sheriff’s Office Gun Buy Back Program and event results, King County’s overdose trends, treatment, and response, as well as an executive COVID briefing. The Committee will also likely take action a motion acknowledging the receipt of the Safe Vehicle Parking Program Report, as well as a separate motion confirming an appointment to the 4Culture Board. For more information on this meeting and how to join it, click here.
Regional Transportation Committee
At next Wednesday’s meeting at 3:00 p.m., the Committee will receive briefings on Metro’s capital toolkit for partners and on innovative and flexible mobility services. For more information on this meeting and how to join it, click here.
Board of Health
At next Thursday’s meeting at 1:00 p.m., the Board will receive briefings on the state legislative session debrief, on the power of co-creation in addressing racism as a public health crisis, and on a public health approach to regional gun violence. The Board will also likely take action on a resolution recognizing June 2nd as Regional Community Safety and Wellbeing Day, as part of National Gun Violence Awareness Day, and recognizing the work of Public Health - Seattle & King County and its regional partners in reducing firearm violence and injury in our county. For more information on this meeting and how to join it, click here.
 National Fentanyl Awareness Day
 Tuesday was National Fentanyl Awareness Day. With the growing number of fentanyl-related overdoses and deaths in our region and across the country, it is important to know what signs to look out for and how respond quickly and stop an overdose from ending in tragedy. Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is the only medication in the market that can reverse an opioid overdose, including those caused by fentanyl. Naloxone comes in nasal sprays and injectables. In Washington State, you can order free naloxone online and deliver it to your home. Click here to learn more.
COVID national emergency ends
On Monday, President Biden signed a bipartisan congressional resolution to end the COVID national emergency after three years. The emergency was set to expire alongside a separate public health emergency in a few weeks. Click here to read more in an article from NPR. Although the national emergency has been closed and several other emergency measures have been wound down, please continue to exercise caution throughout each day to keep yourself, your family, and your community safe. To illuminate further safe practices in this new era, see this article from The Seattle Times. For up-to-date information on cases, hospitalizations, and deaths in the County, see the Daily COVID-19 outbreak summary dashboard.
Helpful Public Health-related articles
Washington flu deaths increased tenfold this season compared to last year – Washington State Department of Health
U.S. backs study of safe injection sites, overdose prevention – STAT News
WA campaign aims to address rising overdose rates among young people – The Seattle Times
What explains rare heart condition among young men after Covid vaccines? A new study offers clues – STAT News
TB cases rose 5 percent last year, more among young children – The Washington Post
The Federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Ends May 11th. What Does this Mean for You? – Public Health Insider
End of covid emergency highlights U.S. weakness in tracking outbreaks – The Washington Post
Start mammograms at 40, not 50, a US health panel recommends – AP News
FDA panel backs over-the-counter sales of birth control pill – AP News
Black patients far less likely to receive key opioid addiction medication, study finds – STAT News
Should we think of gun violence as a 'disease'? These epidemiologists do – KUOW
Bacteria linked to tainted infant formula may soon be reportable pathogen – The Washington Post
Inslee rolls back COVID vaccine mandate for WA state employees – Crosscut
Toddler’s suspicious death believed to involve fentanyl, officials say – The Seattle Times
 AANHPI Heritage Month
 May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This month and every month, we celebrate the history, culture, and contribution of AANHPI people within our communities, businesses, relationships, and industries. We look forward to celebrating this month and our AANHPI friends and neighbors.
King County Metro to reduce bus trips this fall
 As a result of a lack of drivers and mechanics, King County Metro will cut 20 routes from its service this fall. Currently, certain trips are routinely cancelled, and these cuts aim to make services more reliable for passengers. The cuts primarily affect lines where other buses travel the same roads or a few blocks away. In District 4, the 15, 16, 18, and 29 will be cut from service. Read more and see the full list of bus routes slated for removal in this article from The Seattle Times or read the official announcement from Metro here.
Find more information with King County Metro’s Service Alerts and Updates and find alternative routes with Schedules and Maps.
King County Regional Homelessness Authority Updated Five-Year Plan
 The KCRHA has noted that without change in community response to the emergency of homelessness in our region, the number of unhoused people will grow to nearly 62,000 people by 2028. By combining new and existing temporary housing units, KCRHA estimates that it could serve an estimated 35,600 households each year. To help meet this goal, the agency has outlined updates to the previously established five-year plan, which uses a three-part approach, bringing solutions to systems challenges faced with service providers, homelessness service networks, and system-to-system connections, aiming to:
- Improve outcomes at individual service providers, like outreach and shelter, by ensuring every provider has the staff, tools, and support to implement best practices.
- Coordinate its network of service providers through shared data and accountability, ensuring that services are available across King County and that the needs of disproportionately impacted populations are met.
- And collaborate across systems—healthcare, housing, public safety, employment, education, and more—to prevent homelessness.
To read more about the updated plan, click here.
Payment kiosk study
 King County wants your input regarding the payment system that it currently offers. The County will use the data from this study to evaluate new opportunities and to better serve residents in the region. Click here to see if you qualify.
Community feedback on the King County Park Ranger program
 King County Parks is designing a new park ranger program and would like your input to best define ranger roles and responsibilities. Your feedback will be incorporated into the proposal presented to King County Council. Click here to take the short survey.
 Stay safe in the warm weather this weekend
This weekend is primed for warm weather, sunshine, and outdoor activities, several of which are detailed in the “Events” section of this e-newsletter. While it is very exciting to have time in the sun, please make sure that you are taking precautions to protect yourself from heat illness and exhaustion - which can become quite serious with extended periods of sun exposure. Be sure to visit libraries, malls, or other air-conditioned spaces to stay cool during the day. Click here for a graphic on signs of heat illness and how to stay safe in the heat.
 Also, the National Weather Service warns of cold water temperatures as the outside temperature increases. Because mountain snow melts into creeks, rivers, and lakes during periods of warm weather, these bodies of water will be running fast and cold. There is a real threat of hypothermia or cold shock, even for confident swimmers in calm waters. Please take the appropriate steps to stay safe in water this weekend and throughout the warm season. Click here to learn more.
Fireside chat with UW Rowing
 If you missed the UW Rowing Fireside Chat Monday, the special video production is now available to watch on Youtube. Former UW coxswain and team historian Eric Cohen sat down with men's rowing head coach Michael Callahan and "Boys of '36 Tour" founder Melanie Barstow to chat about the legacy and culture of UW rowing as well as the historical importance of the ASUW Shell House. These panelists provided a look into their work, little-known facts about Daniel James Brown’s “The Boys in the Boat,” and their own insights as to how and why the tradition of excellence built in the early 1900s continues to this day. This discussion of history and tradition is especially interesting to me, after having secured $750,000 in capital funding for the renovation of the ASUW Shellhouse earlier this year. You can watch the video here.
Nordic Innovation Summit 2023
 Last Friday, I attended a luncheon for the preview of the 2023 Nordic Innovation Summit at the Rainier Club with the Museum’s CEO Eric Nelson, it’s Director of Collections Leslie Anderson, Honorary Consul General of Sweden Petra Hilleberg, Board Member Anne-Lise Berger, and Development Director Erik Pihl. It was an incredibly insightful and enjoyable event!
Earlier this week, the Summit kicked off with a reception and program on Wednesday night, as well as an all-day program on Thursday, at which Governor Jay Inslee spoke. If you did not have a chance to attend, you can view a recording of the event here.
League of Women Voters endorses my proposed cashless business ordinance
After experiencing people unable to pay with cash during a visit to the Summit at Snoqualmie Pass, League of Women Voters of Seattle-King County President Heather Kelly announced her endorsement of my proposed cashless business ordinance. Click here to read her story and the LWVSKC’s full endorsement. I am very pleased to have the LWVSKC’s endorsement on this proposal, as well as endorsements from the ACLU; ARC of King County; Chief Seattle Club; El Centro de la Raza; Faith Action Network; Low Income Housing Institute; Muslim Association of Puget Sound; Northwest Immigrant Rights Project; Purpose, Dignity, Action (Public Defenders Association); Real Change; Solid Ground; Transit Riders Union; UFCW 3000; and the White Center Community Development Association.
SIFF buys Cinerama
 Although the iconic Cinerama has been closed since 2020, the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) has purchased the building and plans to reopen the theater later this year. This announcement came last night during SIFF’s opening-night gala at the Paramount Theatre, which I attended. SIFF also confirmed plans to continue Cinerama’s traditional 70mm film festivals and noted that the theater will be part of SIFF’s annual festival. To learn more about this exciting news, see this story from The Seattle Times.
2023 Association of King County Historical Organizations’ Award
The 41st annual AKCHO Awards Ceremony was recently held at the Center for Wooden Boats Wagner Education Center. These awards, funded by 4Culture, recognize what those in the heritage field are doing to promote equity, justice, civic engagement, and pride of place through history work. Congratulations to the Ballard Historical Society that received the Long-Term Project Award for “Revisiting Early Ballard,” a three-year project resulting in an innovative new approach to exhibits and presenting oral histories to the public. The Ballard Historical Society was one of ten organizations who received awards. Click here to see the full list of awardees and find more information on the event.
Governor Inslee signs bill to help survivors of sex trafficking in Washington
Last week, Governor Inslee signed SB 5144, which provides funding for housing, health, and transitional services for survivors of adult sex trafficking. Click here to learn more.
 Queen Anne Farmers Market - Spring Preview Day
 This Saturday, May 13th, usher in the Spring season at QAFM! Visit with your favorite farmers and food artisans, and even proactively pick up some flowers for Mom. Click here to learn more.
Beyond the Beat
 This Saturday, May 13th, visit KEXP at the NW Courtyard in Seattle Center for a day celebrating music, community, and local Seattle musicians. Enjoy live performances from Seattle artists Kassa Overall, Talaya, and King ZAAE at this free, all-ages event. Click here to learn more.
Spring Season Gear Swap & Social
 This Saturday, May 13th, bring some gently used gear to exchange, learn some new outdoor skills, and get connected with local outdoor organizations. Click here for more information and RSVP here.
Seattle Electronics Recycling Event
 This Saturday, May 13th, drop off your old or unused electronics for free recycling services at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church. Batteries, lightbulbs, refrigerators, or other large household appliances will not be accepted. Click here to learn more.
15th Annual Pike Place Market Flower Festival
 This weekend, May 13th – 14th, the annual Flower Festival at Pike Place Market celebrates the beauty and diversity of flowers in the Pacific Northwest. Explore the vibrant colors of the bouquets, enjoy live music from market buskers, and even pick up flowers for Mom just in time for Mother’s Day. Click here to learn more.
Teddy Bear Clinic
This Saturday, May 13th, meet with King County 9-1-1 and enjoy a fun-filled, free family event at Puget Sound Fire’s Teddy Bear Clinic. The first 400 children to arrive will receive a free teddy bear courtesy of Warm106.9. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour a fire engine and aid car, spray water through a firehose, and participate in fun activities at the training center. Click here or see the flyer above to learn more.
UW Night Market
 This Saturday, May 13th, visit the UW Night Market in Red Square at the University of Washington. This event, organized by the Taiwanese Student Association, is a Taiwanese festival of tasty foods, exciting entertainment, and fun activities for all ages. Enjoy 20+ vendors and immerse yourself in Taiwanese culture! Click here to learn more.
Feelin Me? Black Queer Feminist Thought in Motion
 On Thursday, May 18th, join the University of Washington’s Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality for a dynamic, music-filled community gathering. Engage in a conversation with Kemi Adeyemi and Bettina Judd, followed by a book sale and signing. Enjoy food, drink, and music until the event space closes. If you register now, your first drink is on the house. Click here to learn more and to RSVP.
Reflections on the 1968 UW Black Student Union
 On Friday, May 19th, join together with students – past and present – to commemorate the 55th Anniversary of the Black Student Union. During the panel discussion, hear from BSU founding members James P. Garrett, my former colleague, retired King County Councilmember Larry Gossett, Kathleen Haley, Carl Miller, and Leathia Stallworth-Krasucki, who demanded changes in how the UW served students of color and continue to serve our greater community. Click here to register for the in-person event or watch it online via livestream.
Sovereign Leadership in Public Health Policy: Exploring the Work of Native Nations
On Wednesday, May 24th, join the University of Washington Evans School of Public Policy and Governance for an engaging panel discussion on how tribal nations are adopting community-led public health initiatives to provide creative solutions and better health outcomes. Click here to register for the event.
Can you solve the opioid crisis?
 On Wednesday, May 24th, join community leaders for a webinar on advocacy and treatment to combat the opioid crisis. Topics of the online event will include updates on most recent data on deaths nationally and in our region; how to use advocacy to educate and save lives; how to maximize new funding sources to prevent overdoses; and expanding treatment for our community’s youngest and those most at risk. Click here to register and learn more.
“The Race Epidemic:” A Discussion on Hate Crimes Against Asians & AAPIs
On Wednesday, May 24th, visit the Bill and Melinda Gates Discovery Center for a live discussion with Tony Shyu, director and producer of “The Race Epidemic,” a new documentary that highlights the rise in Asian hate crimes caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Tony, together with Ron Chew, principal of Chew Communications, and Sarah Baker, Security Awareness Manager at Microsoft, will discuss xenophobia and racism against Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders. Following the discussion, panelists will participate in a Q&A session with the audience. Click here to register for the event.
 Artist Calls
Each month, 4Culture sends out artist calls, as well as a selection of calls submitted by organizations around the world. Below is a snapshot of what is available. Visit the 4Culture website to see all open calls, grants, jobs, and other opportunities.
Something New Public Art Rotation // City of Bainbridge Island
Deadline: May 19th
Budget: $2000
Eligibility: Open to all PNW regional artists.
RFQ: Eastern Oregon University, Inlow Hall, La Grande, OR // Oregon Arts Commission
Deadline: May 22nd
Budget: $122,000
Eligibility: Open to professional artists and artist teams residing in the United States.
Call for Light Art: Arts-A-Glow // City of Burien
Deadline: June 15th
Budget: Stipends are available in varying amounts, depending on art specifics
Eligibility: Open to all artists or artist teams.
 Prepare meals for an enhanced shelter
 The Hunger Intervention Program is seeking prep cook volunteers for its Shelter Meals program. Volunteers will help to prepare dinners and breakfasts at the King County Enhanced Shelter in Shoreline every Monday - Thursday from 2:30-5:30pm. Learn more and sign up through United Way of King County, here.
 California café owner feeds the hungry with a free, hot meal
 In 2011, Collin Doran, owner of Homemade Café in Berkeley, California, noticed that unhoused people outside of restaurant would ask people for money or food. Doran couldn’t stand to see these people be hungry, so he began to offer a free hot breakfast program for anyone who was in need. Twelve years later, his offer still stands.
During the pandemic, Doran drained his savings of $200,000 to keep his employees paid for two years. Now, the community has donated $30,000 to Homemade Café because of the genuine care and kindness which they see embodied through Doran’s work.
And since January, for every $5 donated by a customer, Doran has posted a “free meal” ticket on a bulletin board, which is enough to cover a full “eggs any way” breakfast. Although, even when the restaurant runs out of tickets, it continues to serve free meals. Click here to read the full story in an article from The Seattle Times.
Helpful and informative links
King County’s juvenile diversion programs are a mess. Time for a reset – The Seattle Times
How Climate Change Impacts Homelessness – National Alliance to End Homelessness
Fewer WA renters face eviction now than before COVID. Will that last? – The Seattle Times
Maternity homes provide support in a post-Roe world, but not without conditions – KUOW
Homeless Service Providers, Many Unpaid Since Last Year, Demand Reforms – PubliCola
Keep in touch
Thank you again for taking the time to read my updates. Feel free to forward them to others who can subscribe by clicking here. And you can click here to visit the archive page where you can find all of my previous enews updates.
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