September 14, 2023
 Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The van retirement program is an opportunity for the Council to show our appreciation for the efforts of organizations across the county that work to make our region a more secure, equitable, and supportive place to live, work, and thrive.
I recently enjoyed a wonderful visit to Nomad Boxing Club – one of three non-profit organizations selected to receive a van donation from our D4 office – and met with Coach Manny, the owner and head coach of the club. We took a tour of the gym’s new location in Ballard, discussed the goals and accomplishments of the organization, and met some of the young boxers before dropping off the van. Nomad Boxing Club’s current members are primarily youth and young adults from underserved populations, although individuals of any age and all backgrounds are welcome. What I found most impressive about this organization was its dedication to instilling discipline, respect, inclusivity, and diversity – members grow with one another, learning to appreciate positive, personal values, while keeping their commitment of practicing five days per week in two-hour training sessions.
 Chatting with Coach Manny at Nomad Boxing Club’s new gym in Ballard.
Coach Manny works hard to lead each day with the message, “How you do anything is how you do everything.” At Nomad Boxing Club, (which was named by the boxers, themselves,) empowerment through discipline and group support is what makes a champion.
The club could not be more excited to use their new van to travel to competitions but has already put it to good use to transport boxers to other gyms for sparring practice. Congratulations, Nomads! Learn more about Nomad Boxing Club here or view related media coverage here.
There is much to look forward to in this week’s enews. Here’s a peek at what’s included:
As always, I would like to hear from you. You can call me at 206-477-1004 or reach me by email at jeanne.kohl-welles@kingcounty.gov.
All the best and I hope you are staying safe.
Quote of the Week
“I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.”
― Maya Angelou
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During Tuesday’s Government Accountability and Oversight Committee meeting, the committee was briefed on an audit of the County’s Franchise Rent Program and discussed legislation concerning King County International Airport.
- At Tuesday’s Full Council meeting, County Service Awards were presented by Executive Constantine. The council also took action on two ordinances related to collective bargaining.
- During Tuesday’s Flood Control District Board of Supervisors meeting, the board was briefed on the 2023 Cooperative Watershed Management Grant Program. The board also took action on resolutions authorizing the expenditure of District funds for projects and activities in Water Resource Inventory Areas and authorizing an interlocal agreement with the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services for procurement.
- At Wednesday’s Regional Policy Committee meeting, the committee was briefed on Waste to Energy and on the Department of Community and Human Services Data and Reporting Efforts. The committee also took action on a motion acknowledging receipt of the first annual report on the second Best Starts for Kids initiative.
If you missed the meetings, a recording and additional materials will be made available here.
Transportation, Economy and Environment Committee
At next Tuesday’s 9:30 a.m. meeting, the committee will receive briefings from the Climate Director and Metro’s general manager and will also be briefed on Conservation Futures Advisory Committee Recommendations for 2024. The committee will also discuss and take possible action on ordinances relating to a regional motor sports facility master planning demonstration project and the establishment and administration of the forest carbon program, and on motions: requesting the Executive develop and transmit a study regarding state forest trust lands; requesting the Executive to identify and analyze mature forests in King County, and to transmit a report; and relating to climate change funding. Meeting materials will be made available before the meeting here.
At next Tuesday’s 1:30 p.m. meeting, I will be joined by Councilmember Dunn in leading a proclamation of September 2023 as National Service Dog Month in King County. I will also lead the recognition of Thomas Dambo, a Danish recycle artist, for his contributions to art and environmental awareness through the Northwest Troll Project: The Way of the Bird King. The council will also receive reports on special and outside committees. Meeting materials will be made available before the meeting here.
Employment and Administration Committee
The committee will meet after the conclusion of Tuesday’s full council meeting to discuss and take possible action on motions approving contract renewal for both the deputy chief and chief legal counsel to the Council. Meeting materials will be made available before the meeting here.
At next Wednesday’s 9:30 a.m. meeting, the committee, which I chair, will receive an Executive COVID briefing. It will also take possible action on motions: acknowledging the receipt of the 2022 health through housing annual report; concerning contaminants of emerging concern in wastewater effluent and directing next steps to limit their impact; and approving a workgroup-recommended program plan for that health and safety improvements at the Harborview Medical Center. Meeting materials will be made available before the meeting here.
Regional Transportation Committee
At next Wednesday’s 3:00 p.m. meeting, the committee will be briefed on the Metro Strategic Plan Performance Measures Dashboard. Meeting materials will be made available before the meeting here.
At next Thursday’s1:00 p.m. meeting, the board will be briefed on Vision Zero for Health Equity and Board of Health membership recommendations. The board will also discuss and take possible action on a resolution supporting the framework, the funding focus, and the methodology for funding prioritization recommended in the 2023 Community Engagement Report. Meeting materials will be made available before the meeting here.
 Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
 September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, which aims to increase public awareness and encourage early detection. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men, and regular screenings can help detect it early when it is most treatable. Learn more here.
COVID
For up-to-date information on cases, hospitalizations, and deaths in the County, see the Daily COVID-19 outbreak summary dashboard.
The Washington State Department of Health recently unveiled a new design and web location for its COVID-19 Vaccination Dashboard, which displays the number of COVID-19 vaccines given and the percentage of people vaccinated.
The new 2023-2024 COVID vaccines have been approved and some pharmacies may have it in the next days and weeks. Check vaccines.gov to find appointments or check with your provider.
Updated flu and COVID vaccines are coming this month – Vashon-Maury Beachcomber
What we know about the new COVID-19 vaccine: Q&A with Dr. Eric Chow – Public Health Insider
COVID, flu, and required school vaccines are available right now at no cost for children and teens through age 18 – King County TV
Where to get the updated Covid shot in King County – KUOW
CDC panel recommends updated COVID vaccines. Shots could be ready this week – The Seattle Times
Are you curious about how vaccines keep you safe? – King County TV
Overdose data
For up-to-date data on drug and alcohol-induced overdoses in King County, see the Overdose Data Dashboards.
Helpful Public Health-related articles
Mental health needs go beyond what $1 billion will do for King County – The Seattle Times
How vaping harms students’ mental health – Public Health Insider
Transit agencies continue safety and health efforts following UW study recommendations – The Suburban Times
UW study explores meth and fentanyl exposure on public transit – Seattle Weekly
Campus recovery groups support student sobriety as overdoses rise in WA – The Seattle Times
Program teaches youth about Seattle’s Duwamish River and its toxic seafood – WDC TV News
 Happy Hispanic Heritage Month
 Tomorrow, September 15th, marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month which runs through October 15th. September 15th is an important date as it is the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Additionally, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16th and 18th. As we celebrate this month, we recognize the immense contributions of Hispanic people to our region, as well as their incredibly impactful social, educational, and political influences. It is also imperative that we acknowledge that Latinx/Latine/Hispanic stewardship of the land we walk upon predates the founding of the United States and we thus proudly acclaim the beauty of culture, ingenuity, and strength of the Latinx/Latine/Hispanic peoples. You can read the Executive’s proclamation of September 15th – October 15th as Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month here. Learn more about Hispanic Heritage Month and exciting events to celebrate in our region here.
King County Agriculture Commission meeting today
Today, the King County Agriculture Commission will meet at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom, where the commission will review the 2024 Comprehensive Plan. For more information on the meeting, click here.
To join:
One tap mobile: +12532050468, 83633161768#
Land line: +1 253 215 8782
Meeting ID: 836 3316 1768
Log in from computer or smartphone: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83633161768
Count on public transit to get you to the Renaissance World Tour at Lumen Field tonight
There are several transit options available to take you to see Beyoncé at Lumen Field tonight.
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Sound Transit Link Light Rail: 1 Line trains will run until 1 a.m., which means the last Northbound train will leave Stadium Station (Sixth Avenue and Royal Brougham) at 12:19 a.m. and the last Southbound train will depart Stadium Station at 12:53 a.m.
- Due construction in the Rainier Valley, trains will operate every 15 minutes.
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Water Taxi: The King County Water Taxi is scheduled for several trips after the concert.
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From Pier 50 to West Seattle 7:30p.m., 8:30p.m., 9:30p.m., 10:30p.m., 11:30p.m. & 12:15a.m.
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From West Seattle to Pier 50m., 9p.m., 10p.m., 11p.m. & 12:30a.m.
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Bus routes: Metro and Sound Transit will be adding extra post-event service on select routes to help meet rider demand after the concert. This includes Routes 101, 150, RapidRide lines C, D, E and H, also Sound Transit Routes 545, 550 and 554. Customers should head to the nearest stop for those routes post-event.
Be safe and enjoy the show!
License your pet
 Licensing your pet helps Regional Animal Services of King County to give thousands of animals a second chance by providing quality care to pets. More importantly, a license protects your pet and helps owners locate them. Should they become lost, the individual who finds them need only call the number on their tag. Learn more about pet licensing here.
King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks survey
Help DNRP shape the plan that will guide how our community can be resilient as we prepare for more frequent, severe flooding. Share what actions are important to you in this short survey.
Care & Closure
 Care & Closure is a plan that aims to adopt a holistic range of community-based alternatives to detention to address the complex needs of young people – ultimately closing the Judge Patricia J. Clark Children and Family Justice Center. King County DCHS has been actively engaging with impacted youth, family members, and community members to identify these alternatives needed. By the end of this year, Executive Constantine will transmit his recommendations, based on the engagement process, to the King County Council. Learn more about how you can get involved here.
Pet of the week
 Will is a four-month-old male Alaskan Malamute / German Shepherd dog. He is a playful little puppy who loves people and is full of energy. He’s also learning tons of new skills every day. He is looking for a family who will be patient with him as he learns his manners. Meet Will or search through the full list of adoptable pets here.
 Uptown road updates
On Saturday, September 16th and Sunday, September 17th, pavement restoration work on 1st Ave N will reduce traffic to one lane between Thomas St/Lenny Wilkens Way and Harrison St and no parking will be available. Roadwork is scheduled from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. On Sunday Sept. 17, Broad St will be closed between Denny Way and 4th Ave N from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. for an event. Be sure to allot extra time for travel and plan alternate routes.
Tax relief for seniors, people experiencing disabilities
 If you are a senior or a person experiencing disabilities with your primary residence in Washington State, you may be eligible for a property tax deferral or exemption. This program offers a reduction in property tax based on eligibility requirement of age 61 or older or disability status with an income below the limit threshold of $58,423. Click here to learn more and see if you qualify.
Best Starts for Kids Award Announcement: Prenatal to Five Innovation Supports
 This funding opportunity aimed to build upon the creativity and expertise of community to deliver innovative community-driven approaches that meet the strengths and challenges of communities across King County. The program aimed to invest in program capacity-building expenses and purchases and wage boosts to promote hiring and retaining program staff, such as information technology equipment, program management systems, consultant fees, translation fees, training registration and travel fees, program equipment, and direct payments to staff to support programs in meeting their hiring and retention goals.
Through this RFA, there was up to $550,000 to be allocated across 2023 and 2024. After the first cycle of application review, eight organizations were selected to receive funding. However, the RFA will remain open through October 2024 and applications will continue to be accepted, reviewed, and awarded monthly. Congratulations to Atlantic Street Center, Center for Indigenous Midwifery, Chinese Information and Service Center, Gwen's Guidance, Hummingbird Indigenous Family Services, Navos, Resilient in Sustaining Empowerment, and Voices of Tomorrow on receiving funding.
Workshops for Home-Based Services Providers
Best Starts for Kids’ Home-Based Services strategy provides support to expecting caregivers and caregivers of children aged birth to five. Through this strategy, trained home visitors provide a range of resources to strengthen early positive interactions between children and their caregivers. In an effort to support home visitors, Best Starts will provide training opportunities in October and November. Learn more an register here.
Congratulations to Bumbershoot on a successful return
 After a three-year hiatus, Bumbershoot returned on Labor Day to the Seattle Center and brought musical performers, vendors, and art exhibits. Now under new leadership, the festival promised to reconnect to its roots with arts at the forefront of its attractions. It surely did not disappoint! With tons of entertainment, designers, dancers, and food, a great time was had by all. Learn more about the festival here.
“The arts are still in recovery.”
 Seattle arts and culture lovers are now spending more time at home and attending events less often. According to a Fall 2023 arts survey of King County cultural organizations by The Seattle Times, 60% of organizations say ticket sales are still down compared with the last pre-pandemic year. Included in the downtick, ticket and subscription sales remain down, costs are escalating and eating into revenues, and pandemic relief funding is dwindling entirely. And aside from a myriad of causes, inflation is playing a huge role in people’s limited return to supporting the arts, as Seattle is more expensive than ever. Learn more in this article from The Seattle Times. Now, more than ever, we see that Cultural Access legislation enacted into law earlier this year by the State Legislature could be of essential assistance for so many of King County’s revered institutions of culture and art. Our Committee of the Whole and the Regional Policy Committee will be taking up an ordinance on this next month. Everyone should be able to freely enjoy going to the theater for a show or film, a gallery for an art opening, or a venue for a concert, to appreciate the beauty and creativity of artists and innovators in our region and beyond. The same for school kids and families. Such appreciation should not be limited by affordability, inflation and other such factors.
Remembering 9/11
Earlier this week, we observed the anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Twenty-two years ago, passengers on American Airlines Flight 11 and 77, and United Airlines Flight 93 and 175, people working in and visiting the World Trade Center and Pentagon, firefighters, police officers, and other first responders were taken from their families and loved ones far too soon. This act of terror shook our nation deeply and the lives of so many were changed forever.
When we remember this day, let us continue to honor the memory of the victims of this horrific attack, recognizing the fear and anguish that they each must have felt. Let us also honor their families and loved ones, who received news inconceivable to us all. And let us salute the strength and courage of those who fought for the lives of others – the first responders, both professionals and lay persons – who embodied selflessness as they braved the crumbling buildings to rescue victims.
Lastly, we must recognize the resulting grief and anger over these immense losses which unfortunately spurred the widespread epidemic of islamophobia and anti-Islamic acts of hatred throughout the nation. May we each be able to see the beauty in one another, even in times of fear and darkness.
Deadly earthquake in Morocco
After Friday’s deadly earthquake in Morocco, which has now claimed more than 2,800 lives and affected over 300,000, rescuers are still racing to find survivors in the rubble. The loss of families, homes, and many historic sites is incredibly heartbreaking. Currently, aid priorities include supplying clean drinking water, food kits, tents and blankets to disaster victims. To learn how you can help, click here.
Tragic flood in eastern Libya
On Tuesday, Mediterranean storm Daniel caused devastating floods in Libya, which broke dams and destroyed entire neighborhoods in several coastal towns. Emergency providers have already uncovered over 1,500 bodies, yet it is expected the toll may surpass 5,000. With many already lost, hundreds of families were displaced and took shelter in schools and other government buildings in Benghazi and elsewhere in eastern Libya. UNICEF is now working diligently to put children first and distribute aid. This is truly bleak, and we hope that survivors with loved ones and friends taken by the flood are able to find comfort in one another and grieve their loss. Read more here and learn how you can help here.
 FamilyWorks new Family Resource Center
 This Saturday, September 16th from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., join FamilyWorks at its new Family Resource Center location at the Cedar Crossing Apartments in the Roosevelt neighborhood. The community will celebrate the new resource center, cut the ribbon, and hear remarks from FamilyWorks leadership. Learn more and RSVP here.
Luminata lantern-making workshop
Luminata is around the corner, come down to the Powerhouse for a free lantern making workshop. Make one for yourself and help to make more to sell at the event.
When: September 5th – 21st, Tuesday and Thursday 6:00 – 10:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Where: Fremont Powerhouse, 3940 Fremont Ave N
More information: https://myfremont.wildapricot.org/events
Tidelines to Timelines: A Waterfront Storytelling Event
 Join Friends of the Waterfront and partners as they shine a light on the diverse stories and histories of Seattle's Waterfront through live storytelling, poetry, dance, and an onsite "History Portal" that will feature multimedia stories.
When: Sunday, September 17th, 12:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Where: Pier 62
More information: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfWaterfrontSeattle/posts/pfbid0qQnxufc2duDn7yonkCVucTZBzE9vGimK4oGhdd9Ma12SZuAzRPjRxKtjMMXVdR81l
Cultural Candidate Forum: King County Council
Hosted by Inspire Washington, the forum will provide the opportunity for candidates for the general election in Districts 4 and 8 to outline their plans for supporting the region’s cultural arts, heritage, and natural science fields.
When: Friday, September 22nd – 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Seattle Town Hall / Livestream
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/events/564904155832272/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[]%7D
Salmon Homecoming
 Welcome the salmon home! Learn about the importance of protecting our salmon and our environment and celebrate the people of the Pacific Northwest.
When: Saturday, September 23rd, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Where: Pier 62
More information: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfWaterfrontSeattle/posts/pfbid021dND8YfC5xASoduKCbkRtTqfkexzohD1kFdw2s2gfFiHa23hSN81uxoFu7yoEo5el
Additional upcoming events:
District 7 City Council and King County District 4 Candidate Forum
Belltown United, West Precinct Advisory Council (WPAC), South Lake Union Chamber, and the Uptown Alliance are hosting a candidate forum.
When: Tuesday, September 26th – 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Seattle Unity Church
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/SeattleUptownAlliance/posts/pfbid021jNR93h6Gf4L1dYAzC4jd5bsRuGPPVb3hphDbQuhHuscJYdK5EFoP9BtokygEostl
Metro’s 50th Anniversary Public Daytime Event
Grab a piece of cake in the park and celebrate 50 years of providing public transportation in King County. See historic and current modes of transit, get exclusive 50th swag, and visit MOHAI to view a one-day-only exhibit featuring Metro memorabilia.
When: Wednesday, September 27th, 12:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Where: Lake Union Park, 860 Terry Ave North
More information: Please RSVP here.
Ballard NW Senior Center Vaccination Clinic
 If it’s been more than a year since your last COVID booster, or if you’re over 65 years old or immunocompromised, now is the time to get boosted.
When: Tuesday, October 3rd
Where: Ballard NW Senior Center, 5429 32nd Ave NW
More information: Call (206) 297-0403 to sign up.
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk
 This event will bring people together to make a difference for those who have been touched by breast cancer, and will fund innovative research, provide free information and support, and help people reduce their breast cancer risk. Registration is free.
When: October 21st, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Gas Works Park
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/251208041051555/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22group%22%7D]%7D
If you know of any events that you would like to see highlighted in my enews, feel free to share them at lilli.deleon@kingcounty.gov.
 Child Care Worker Wage Boost Pilot RFQ
 The King County Department of Community and Human Services is looking for one organization to apply to this RFQ and build a collaborative team to design and implement a Pilot Program. The Pilot is planned to allocate approximately $5 million annually to provide a Wage Boost to Child Care Workers at selected Child Care Sites with children aged birth to twelve in King County. It will fund a wage increase to eligible Child Care Workers and study the impact of the Wage Boost on employee retention at Child Care Sites, Continuity of Care, and worker well-being with the intention to use data and learning to support the holistic health and stability of the child care sector, including goals and priorities identified by those directly working within the sector. I appreciate our own King County Women’s Advisory Board that made recommendations to the King County Council on expanding programs and funding. Applications must be submitted before October 19th at 2:00 p.m. Click here to learn more and apply.
If you have any questions, please contact dchscontracts@kingcounty.gov.
 North Seattle College Early Learning Center
North Seattle College’s Early Learning Center is hiring student workers to work on-campus, helping children to thrive. Part-time student hourly and work study positions are available.
For more information, please contact Rose Buchanan: rose.buchanan@seattlecolleges.edu.
 You’ve seen Henry’s murals around Seattle. Now there’s a bus tour.
 You can’t miss Ryan “Henry” Ward’s murals throughout Seattle. His characters vary from a Sasquatch mural outside Cookie’s Country Chicken in Ballard to a tortoise and hare painted on the side of Belltown’s New Horizons youth housing. Henry has crafted more than 500 commissioned murals in King County alone – and now, fans and art lovers can climb aboard a tour bus, painted by Henry, and view the city of Seattle through his eyes in an all-new mural tour. Learn more in this article from The Seattle Times.
Helpful and informative links
Car service resumes on Seattle-Bainbridge ferry route after halting for terminal renovation – KOMO News
Transit agencies get in formation, expecting Beyoncé concert crowds – The Seattle Times
Unincorporated King County revenue stream down 37% below projections of $12M – The Center Square
Handling of Jaahnavi Kandula’s death brings criticism from Seattle leaders – The Seattle Times
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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