September 22, 2023
With National Nordic Museum CEO Eric Nelson and “Frankie Feetsplinters”
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
You may have heard about the phenomenon of giant troll sculptures being erected throughout the Puget Sound. These striking installations are the work of Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo, who is bringing joy and whimsy to so many within our region through his art. There are six giant trolls installed within the PNW, the last of which was celebrated earlier this week at its home in front of the National Nordic Museum in Ballard. Others are in Vashon, West Seattle, Issaquah Alps, Bainbridge, and Portland in addition to four others in New Jersey, Ohio, Vermont, and Colorado, all installed in the past five months. Each of these huge structures is made with reclaimed wood and pallets, making one person's trash into another's treasure, as Thomas says. I attended this celebration and had the pleasure of speaking with Thomas, who is as kind as he is creative.
 It was an honor to recognize Thomas at our Council meeting on Tuesday, celebrating his outstanding contributions to art and dedication to environmental sustainability. CMs Joe McDermott and Sarah Perry and I spoke about his ability to turn discarded items into whimsical installations is a true gift to our region, for which we are incredibly thankful. I was also grateful to attend a farewell dinner on Wednesday at the National Nordic Museum for the artist, an exquisite dining setting for 30, where I presented him with the formal Recognition.
 You can find a troll sculpture near you!
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
“No legacy is so rich as honesty.”
– William Shakespeare
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During Tuesday’s Transportation, Economy and Environment Committee meeting, the committee received briefings from the Climate Director and Metro’s general manager and on the Conservation Futures Advisory Committee Recommendations for 2024. The committee also took action on ordinances relating to a regional motor sports facility master planning demonstration project and the establishment of the forest carbon program, and on motions requesting the Executive study state forest trust lands and mature forests in King County. The committee also was briefed on a potential ordinance on climate change funding.
- During Tuesday’s Full Council meeting, I was joined by Councilmember Dunn in leading a proclamation of September 2023 as National Service Dog Month in King County. I also was joined by Councilmembers Perry and McDermott in leading 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.
- At Tuesday’s Employment and Administration Committee meeting, the committee took action on motions approving contract renewal for both the deputy chief and chief legal counsel to the Council.
- During Wednesday’s meeting of the Committee of the Whole, which I chair, the committee received an Executive COVID briefing. It also took action on motions acknowledging the receipt of the 2022 health through housing annual report, CM Balducci’s and my legislation concerning contaminants of emerging concern in wastewater effluent and directing next steps to limit their impact, and on a workgroup-recommended program plan for that health and safety improvements at the Harborview Medical Center.
- At Wednesday’s Regional Transportation Committee meeting, the committee was briefed on the Metro Strategic Plan Performance Measures Dashboard.
- During Thursday’s Board of Health meeting, the board received a report from Public Health Director Faisal Khan and was briefed on Vision Zero for Health Equity and Board of Health membership recommendations. The board also took action on a resolution supporting the framework, funding focus, and methodology for funding prioritization recommended in the 2023 Community Engagement Report. Last, the board was briefed on recent fentanyl data and the state’s settlement concerning opioids with McKesson, Cardinal, and Amerisource Bergen, totaling $518 million.
 View the full PowerPoint presentation in the recording and recording by clicking the image above.
If you missed the meetings, a recording and additional materials will be made available here.
 Local Services and Land Use Committee
At next Tuesday’s 9:30 a.m. meeting, the committee will be briefed on the County’s Franchise Rent Program and will take possible action on ordinances relating to energy storage systems, development regulations in North Highline, and authorizing the King County executive to execute an interlocal agreement with the City of Federal Way. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Full Council
At next Tuesday’s 1:30 p.m. meeting, the Council will issue a proclamation of October 2nd – 8th as Week Without Driving in King County. The Council will also take possible action on the renewal of contract agreements, confirming executive appointments, and an ordinance related to collective bargaining. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Law, Justice, Health, and Human Services Committee
At next Thursday’s 9:30 a.m. meeting, the committee will receive a briefing on substance use disorder crisis causes and context. It will also discuss and take possible action on ordinances related to requirements for the treatment of and services to juveniles in the custody of the department of adult and juvenile detention, as well as on motions acknowledging receipt of the first of two reports on addressing the criminal case backlog that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic and progress on addressing new eviction cases after the state moratorium is lifted. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting 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 them available soon. Check vaccines.gov to find appointments or check with your provider.
With the prospect of a possible winter surge of COVID-19, the Biden administration has announced it will revive the program that offered households free at-home COVID tests. The website for the program, covidtests.gov, will begin accepting orders on Monday. Learn more here.
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
Pierce County parents arrested for children's opioid overdoses – KOMO News
Covid dashboard upgraded to include flu and RSV in Washington state – KUOW
At-home COVID-19 tests: What to know about expiration dates, new variants – The Seattle Times
 King County ends contract with SCORE Jail
As PubliCola and The Seattle Times have reported, the contract between SCORE and King County for jail services was terminated this week. In April, I voted no on this initial contract along with CM Girmay Zahilay for a number of reasons, a key one being that it wouldn’t change the underlying challenges facing the King County Jail. I hope that this contract’s end will lead to more long-term solutions – including more alternatives to incarceration, increased transparency, and improved conditions for individuals in custody and staff.
King County Water Taxi to maintain year-round midday and weekend sailing schedule to and from West Seattle
 The King County Water Taxi will continue to be a reliable transportation option year-round for riders going to and from West Seattle. The seven-day-a-week service will continue to run from 6:00 a.m. on weekdays (8:30 a.m. weekends) to 7:00 p.m. Weekday sailings will depart every 35 minutes during peak commute hours and every hour during the midday, and on weekends. There will be no Friday or Saturday sailings after 7:00 p.m. If needed, riders can take the free Metro shuttles to and from the Water Taxi landing at Seacrest Park during commute hours. Route 773 serves the West Seattle junction and Route 775 serves the Admiral District and Alki.
Help guide the implementation of the Crisis Care Centers Initiative
 The voter-approved Crisis Care Centers levy is a $1.2 billion nine-year levy that will create five Crisis Care Centers to restore mental health residential treatment beds, grow the mental-health workforce, and increase access to critical behavioral health care across the county. To guide the implementation of the initiative, take a survey to share your thoughts or take part in a community meeting and give your input.
Register to vote
Tuesday was National Voter Registration Day. Remember that democracy works best when everyone’s voice is heard. Join the observance of this civic holiday and get registered! Visit www.VoteWA.gov to register or update online today!
Fall Prevention Awareness Week
Falls are the leading cause of injuries for people 65 and older in King County, but they are largely preventable. This week, do your part and help educate yourself and others by raising awareness on how to reduce fall risks for our friends and loved ones.
Pet of the week
Azul is a nine-year-old female pit bull. She is a gentle and loving dog who likes to take things slow. She may get nervous in new situations, so she’s looking for a family who understands that she might take some time to warm up. Meet Azul or search through the full list of adoptable pets here.
 New Data Resource to Help Determine Racially-Disparate Impacts
The Puget Sound Regional Council has added resources that can help local jurisdictions address racial exclusion and displacement in housing in their Comprehensive Plan updates.
 Cultural Candidate Forum: King County Council
Hosted by Inspire Washington, the forum will provide the opportunity for candidates for the general election in Districts 2, 4 (to succeed me), 6 and 8 to outline their plans for supporting the region’s cultural arts, heritage, and natural science fields.
When: Tonight, 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
Fremont Oktoberfest
 Seattle's largest beer festival returns, elevating 100+ Beers & Ciders, Dogtoberfest, a Giant DJ Tower, Stein Hoisting, and so much more.
When: Tonight, September 22nd: 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Saturday, September 23rd: 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Sunday, September 24th: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where: 3503 Phinney Ave N, Seattle.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/249198144296117/249198160962782/
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
Partners in Change Resource Fair
Partners in change will provide free food, grocery bags, lunchboxes for kids, vaccines, and resources. Players from the Seattle Seahawks will also be there to pass out grocery bags and lunchboxes!
When: Saturday, September 23rd from 12:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Green River Community College, Kent Campus at Kent Station
More information: Please contact sameth@eec-wa.org.
Deep Listening to the System with Susan Robb
 4Culture and artist Susan Robb invite you to peek behind the curtain and experience the world of wastewater treatment firsthand with a special tour of the Brightwater Treatment Plant. After the tour, participants can take a sound bath with Scott Francis, co-owner of Mind Body Hum—this symphonic journey is designed to resonate with the frequency of gratitude and become a conduit for relaxation, introspection, and rejuvenation.
When: Saturday, September 23rd
Where: Brightwater Treatment Plant Community Center - 22505 Washington 9 Woodinville, WA
More information: Save your spot and select your tour time here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/deep-listening-to-the-system-treatment-plant-tour-soundbath-tickets-704709082837
King County Medic One Virtual Open House
 King County Medic One is gearing up for its annual hiring process next year, planning to hire 5-8 paramedic interns during this upcoming cycle. Join the virtual open house and get your questions answered about King County Medic One.
When: Monday, September 25th at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Zoom (Meeting ID and passcode in the image above)
More information: See the event page here.
When antibiotics fail: solving the deadly superbug threat
What would happen if life-saving antibiotics stopped working? This panel discussion will explore ways to reduce antibiotic resistance through stewardship, innovation, and regulation. Panelists will also examine the fragile antibiotic pipeline and examine ways to encourage development of new therapies.
When: Tuesday, September 26th at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Virtually
More information: Fill out a registration form here and submit your questions: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_emrZjZP7evzOchU?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Register&utm_campaign=2023.9.26-AMR
Fremont Neighborhood Council Candidate Forum
 When: Wednesday, September 27th at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Doric Lodge, 619 N 36th St, Seattle 98103
More information: https://fremontneighborhoodcouncil.org/in-person-candidate-forum-you-are-invited/
Green Jobs, Green Futures Summit
 On Friday, September 29th from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m., come out to The Fremont Foundry for the first annual Green Jobs, Green Futures Summit. King County, in collaboration with the Port of Seattle, City of Seattle, Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County, and Seattle Good Business Network, will host an interactive, one-day event geared towards creating community connections and highlighting businesses in the local green economy. Job seekers, employers, and those who are looking to learn more about the green economy are all welcome.
Register here
Bon Voyage SLU Saturday Market
Enjoy the last SLU Saturday Market of the season next Saturday!
When: Saturday, September 30th, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: 139 9th Ave N
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/841795987554156/
Fishermen’s Fall Festival
Fishermen's Fall Festival is a free event dedicated to providing essential services to fishermen and their families while also honoring those lives lost at sea. Attendees can expect a variety of fun and educational activities that bring to life the unique character of the historic Fishermen’s Terminal.
When: Saturday, September 30th, 11:00 a.m.
Where: Fishermen’s Terminal, 1882 W Nickerson St.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/258991096688793?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[]%7D
Snake River Campaign
When: Sunday, October 1st at 6:00 p.m.
Where: Town Hall Seattle
More information: RSVP: https://www.tfaforms.com/5085750
Upcoming additional events:
2023 Homeless Debates
 As the Seattle City Council and King County Council elections near, continues to be a top priority for many voters. Join We Are In and KNKX Public Radio to hear candidates discuss and debate how they plan to address and prevent homelessness.
When: October 10th and 11th at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Seattle University - Pigott Auditorium
More information: If you cannot attend in-person you may attend either day virtually. Tickets are free but you must RSVP, reserve your spot here.
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.
 Sound Generations receives a ‘retired’ Metro vanpool van
 Last week, I visited the Sound Generations warehouse to see the retired Metro van I’d allocated to Sound Generations so that while the larger Metro shuttles they operate are running, supervisors are able to move around and troubleshoot as necessary by using this smaller van. In August alone, the Hyde Shuttle provided over 5200 one-way rides. In addition to the Hyde Shuttle, Sound Generations offers home repair help, a variety of programs for seniors, and Meals on Wheels. Here, I’m pictured with Kim Christodoulou and Erin Hudnell in front of their new van!
 Best Starts for Kids Youth and Family Homelessness Prevention Initiative LGBTQIA+ Expansion
 Housing security is key to ensuring kids have their best start at life. Research shows that housing is the first rung on the ladder to economic opportunity and that a person’s access to opportunity is intrinsically linked with that of the community where they live. The awardee(s) shall dedicate one case manager solely devoted to the work of preventing homelessness, ensuring housing stability for households at imminent risk, and implementing the YFHPI model of prevention and housing stability. Successful applicants must clearly demonstrate the ability to serve LGBTQIA+ communities. Submit your application before Friday, October 27th at 2:00 p.m.
U.S. Department of Transportation Thriving Communities Program
The program will be providing $22M in funding for Capacity Builders for technical assistance, planning, and capacity building support to disadvantaged and under-resourced communities across the U.S. to help advance the transformative transportation projects needed to thrive.
Applications from communities must be submitted through a DOT webform by November 15th, 2023. View the Call for Letters of Interest (LOI) for more information about the program and how to apply if your community would like to receive in-kind technical assistance, planning, and capacity building support. DOT is hosting a webinar for communities interested in receiving TCP support on September 27th from 3:00-4:00 p.m. ET.
Visit the TCP website to find more information about the program, including a set of Frequently Asked Questions. Webinar materials, including slides and recordings, will be posted to the TCP webinars webpage as they become available.
 King County Clinic Volunteering
 In February, McCaw Hall will become home to the 2024 Seattle/King County Clinic. This free health care clinic requires more than 750 volunteers per day to provide free care to 3,000 people in need. If you would like to help this event to run smoothly, volunteer registration opens October 2nd for the 2024 Clinic (February 15th – 18th) at Seattle Center. The number of patients served depends strongly upon the number of volunteers who register.
Tasveer Film Festival
Volunteers make the Tasveer festival possible each year, so an open call has been extended to community members interested in donating their time to help make this year's film festival a success. Volunteers for: ushers, registration desk, breakdown crew, photographer, videographer, and social media are desired.
 How a small Washington town banded together to find a lost dog
 The day before Stacey Day was supposed to pack up her family and animals after a vacation in Long Beach, Pacific County, she noticed that Juneau, her 3-year-old Doberman, had disappeared. Over an 18-hour search and a dedicated network of friends, neighbors, and Facebook posts helped Day to locate her lost furry friend.
Helpful and informative links
Man found dead in Issaquah jail before release for medical treatment – The Seattle Times
Op-Ed: Route 8 or Route Late? Help Us Fix Seattle’s Least Reliable Bus Route – The Urbanist
Our public defender system is at the breaking point – The Seattle Times
The best time to apply for an AC unit, before federal funding cools off in Washington – KUOW
Sharon Lee’s 30-year Crusade for Low-Income Housing – Post Alley
King County zeros in on how proposed hate-crime hotline would work – 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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