September 29, 2023
 Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The September Revenue Forecast was released on Tuesday, which showed that the state legislature will have additional revenue available. For the 2023-2025 biennium, the forecast projects an increase of $663M, and for the 2025-2027 biennium an increase of $437M. You can review the materials from the forecast here.
At the federal level, you likely know that the government is potentially heading for a shutdown at the end of the week. Here’s what to know:
A federal government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass a funding bill, which funds agencies within that government. During a shutdown, government dollars can only be spent on “essential” services. All remaining federal agencies must stop “non-essential” work, meaning that millions of federal employees will be furloughed and not receive pay until the shutdown is terminated. Many people across the nation are affected during a federal government shutdown, including, as examples highlighted by the White House:
- 10,000 children across the nation may immediately lose access to Head Start Grants.
- Air traffic controllers and TSA Officers would likely have to work without pay.
- Most EPA-led inspections at hazardous waste sites, drinking water, and chemical facilities would likely cease.
- Safety inspections by the FDA would likely be delayed for a variety of products.
Impacts to King County and what agencies might be considered essential or non-essential have been assembled by the King County Council’s federal contract team. While guidance has not yet been established by the Office of Management and Budget based on previous shutdowns, it is likely that public safety operations will remain protected, including law enforcement, air traffic control, judicial staff, border security, along with programs funded by dedicated user fees and programs funded by advance appropriations. In King County, the information we have currently dictates that:
- A short-term federal government shutdown will not have immediate impact on King County.
- Mandatory programs like Social Security, Medicare, and SNAP are not affected by a government shutdown, but some administrative processes associated with the programs may be.
- Grants and awards that are not connected to essential services will likely halt.
- Federal employees not working in essential services are likely to be furloughed and not allowed to work.
It is our hope that Congress is able to work quickly to resolve this impasse and return the federal government to an opened status as fervently as possible.
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
“The best index to a person's character is how he treats people who can't do him any good, and how he treats people who can't fight back.”
– Abigail Van Buren
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At Tuesday’s Local Services and Land Use Committee meeting, the committee was briefed on the County’s Franchise Rent Program and took 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.
- During Tuesday’s Full Council meeting, the Council issued a proclamation of October 2nd – 8th as Week Without Driving in King County. The Council also took action on the renewal of contract agreements, confirming executive appointments, and an ordinance related to collective bargaining.
- During Wednesday’s meeting, the Growth Management Planning Council (GMPC) took action on a motion recommending amendments to the Urban Growth Area (UGA) Policies and Four to One Program. This motion is purely advisory and will be transmitted to the King County Council for deliberation next year as it reviews the Comprehensive Plan. I voted in favor of an amendment from Executive Constantine that ensures the Four to One program is applicable only to the UGA boundaries as established in 1994, and not to amendments made afterwards, including Joint Planning Areas (JPAs). We also received a briefing on the Puget Sound Regional Council’s certification of the 2021 Countywide Planning Policies and a report on the School/City/County coordination meetings. You can find all the documents related to the meeting in one place here.
- At yesterday’s Law, Justice, Health, and Human Services Committee meeting, the committee received a briefing on substance use disorder crisis causes and context, which included a helpful PowerPoint, accessible in the meeting materials.
 It also was briefed on a proposed ordinance on the treatment of and services to juveniles in the custody of the department of adult and juvenile detention and took action on a motion 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.
If you missed the meetings, recordings and additional materials will be made available here.
 Law, Justice, Health, and Human Services Committee
At next Tuesday’s 9:30 a.m. meeting, the committee will receive a briefing on a Class A Attorney Attrition Crisis, as well as discuss and take possible action on motions acknowledging receipt of the first of two reports on the strategic planning process for the future of secure juvenile detention in King County, and also of the new civil protection order procedure report. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Full Council
At next Tuesday’s 1:30 p.m. meeting, I will join Councilmember Balducci in presenting a proclamation of September 15th – October 15th as Latino/a/e Heritage Month in King County and in presenting a proclamation for Megan Rapinoe Week with CMs McDermott and Balducci. The Council will also take possible action on motions and ordinances related to collective bargaining as well as on my legislation with Councilmember Balducci concerning contaminants of emerging concern in wastewater effluent and directing next steps to limit their impact. Also on the agenda is a motion concerning the approval of a workgroup-recommended program plan for those health and safety improvements at the Harborview Medical Center that can be built within the amount of the bond revenues estimated to be available. Lastly, the council will discuss and take possible action on motions requesting the executive to develop and transmit a study regarding state forest trust lands as well as to identify and analyze mature forests in King County, and to transmit two reports. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Committee of the Whole
At next Wednesday’s 9:30 a.m. meeting, which I will chair, will be the first of three special meetings of the Committee of the Whole in the next two months. These additional meetings are needed due to many complex ordinances that need to be voted on by the Council by the year’s end. At the October 4th meeting, we will receive the executive’s briefing and hear any initial public comment related to an ordinance creating the King County Doors Open program to support cultural organizations. This ordinance received a mandatory dual referral to the Committee of the Whole and to the Regional Policy Committee, meaning it will be briefed a few times before any action is taken at the end of November. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Regional Water Quality Committee
At next Wednesday’s 3:00 p.m. meeting, the committee will receive reports from the Metropolitan Water Pollution Abatement Advisory Committee as well as the Wastewater Treatment Division. Additionally, the committee will be briefed on the 2023 Stormwater Summit as well as on improvements to facilitate RWQC review of rate development policies. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
 West Nile virus reported in humans and horses from four counties in Washington state
West Nile virus, a virus carried by mosquitos that can cause illness in people and animals, has been reported in humans in Walla Walla and Franklin counties and in horses in Grant and Benton counties. Disease due to West Nile virus occurs during mosquito season in Washington state, which starts in the summer and continues through the early fall.
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.
New DOH dashboard details drug overdose deaths in Washington
 Drug overdose and opioid misuse are serious public health crises impacting communities nationwide. Washington State Department of Health’s new Unintentional Drug Overdose Data dashboard provides insight for addressing substance use disorders in our state. The data will be used to better understand characteristics and circumstances surrounding each overdose death.
Accessing naloxone nasal spray in King County
 With dramatically increasing overdoses in our community, knowing how to access and administer naloxone—a lifesaving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose—is critical. Here’s how you can get it in King County:
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Pharmacies: Naloxone can be purchased over the counter or through medical insurance at most pharmacies.
- Naloxone has recently been made available over the counter, and major pharmacies like Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, and Rite Aid sell a 2-dose box for around $45.
- Most pharmacies also offer naloxone at the pharmacy counter without a prescription using Washington's naloxone standing order. Employees can use their medical benefits to cover the cost, but may have a copay. Employees should ask for the generic prescription for a lower co-pay.
- People enrolled in Apple Health can get the kit for free, without a copay.
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Naloxone vending machines: Public Health - Seattle & King County (PHSKC) manages naloxone vending machines at Peer Seattle and Peer Kent.
- Naloxone by mail:
- Within King County, use the Kelley-Ross Pharmacy Group.
- For regions outside King County, visit the Washington Department of Health
To find naloxone nearest you, search the Washington State Naloxone Finder. Be sure to contact the chosen location to confirm availability.
Being equipped with naloxone and understanding its administration play a pivotal role in building a resilient community and mitigating the overdose crisis. Stay informed, access more resources, and sign up for training at PHSKC's Overdose Prevention and Response site (click on “Prevention and Response Training”).
Helpful Public Health-related articles
Many states are expanding their Medicaid programs to provide dental care to their poorest residents – Associated Press
Covid Can Disrupt Your Sleep – The New York Times
As Covid Infections Rise, Nursing Homes Are Still Waiting for Vaccines – The New York Times
Availability for COVID vaccine for kids in WA expected to improve – KIRO 7
In Hospitals, Viruses Are Everywhere. Masks Are Not. – The New York Times
Toxic chemicals causing birth defects at Boeing, lawsuit says – King 5
Fentanyl in King County: Join The Seattle Times for a live discussion – The Seattle Times
Current deadly fentanyl overdose statistics surpass 2022 levels in King County – FOX 13
Regional health care organizations adopt guidelines for masking as respiratory virus season approaches – Nation World News
Children of color and from low-income families disproportionately harmed by toxic chemicals, study finds – STAT News
 #WeekWithoutDriving
 Next week will mark the beginning of Week Without Driving 2023, which the Council proclaimed on Tuesday, will take place from October 2nd – 8th in King County. All councilmembers signed the proclamation which we presented to Anna Zivarts and Disability Right Washington, as well as several other representatives from disability rights organizations.
Next week, I’ll be taking the challenge to go the week without driving, with the goal of learning about the mobility experience and barriers faced daily by nondrivers (nearly a third of people), be they people with disabilities, older adults, youth, or those who cannot afford a car. Driving is a privilege which many of us take for granted and it is very important that we incur this mindfulness through experience – understanding the additional time, effort, and difficulty that may be experienced by nondrivers. I have taken part in this challenge in years past and each time find new reasons to appreciate the experiences of others in our community. I am excited to take part in this challenge once again and will be updating you all along the journey on social media using the hashtag #WeekWithoutDriving.
If you’re wondering how the #WeekWithoutDriving challenge will make a difference, read more about how it has helped to motivate elected officials push for change in transportation options for the community in this article in Bloomberg.
If you haven’t registered yet, you can officially sign up this year on the www.weekwtihoutdriving.org website! And be sure to check out recent coverage of the challenge in The Seattle Times.
Officer-related fatalities
Last year, as many of you may remember, I worked to increase transparency around officer-involved fatalities. I am very pleased that the new websites are now providing this kind of information. The inquest website was improved due to proviso requirements, and the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office website was created independently of a proviso requirement. Notably, the inquest page only tracks cases that have been recommended for inquest, whereas the PAO’s website captures information on cases that are still under review, non-fatalities, and jail deaths.
A ‘New Energy’ arrives as Executive Constantine unveils new colors for Metro’s electric fleet
 King County Executive Dow Constantine unveiled one of Metro’s new battery-electric buses wrapped in the new colors of the fleet on Wednesday at Metro’s South Base. These next-generation busses, known as “The New Energy,” are outfitted with a livery design, which is mix of electric yellow and seafoam blue. The RapidRide buses have new colors as well, now splashed with red and purple. These colors are a visual representation and reminder of Metro’s commitment to helping combat climate change.
National Senior Center Month
This week, Executive Constantine issued a proclamation of September 2023 as National Senior Center month in King County. In our region, the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy funds senior centers to serve as resource centers on aging services. The renewed VSHSL will provide support with technology to connect virtually, meal delivery, resources, and programming for enhanced social connection, and more. It is imperative that we recognize the essential work of these centers and their efforts to care for our senior population. I will be taking part in a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Ballard Senior Center on Oct. 17th. More details to come
King County Indigent Remains Ceremony
 Every few years, the King County Medical Examiner’s Office hosts a to ensure that each King County resident is remembered. The Indigent Remains Program provides a burial for King County residents who have died without resources or family to claim their remains for a proper burial. The next ceremony will take place on October 25th, 1:00 p.m. at the Mt. Olivet Cemetery (100 Blaine Ave NE) and all are welcome to pay their respects.
 Tips to save water after a dry summer
 After this summer’s unusually dry weather, Seattle Public Utilities is asking customers to voluntarily use less water. This step aims to stretch the region’s water supply until more rain comes this fall.
- Take the initiative to:
- Stop watering your lawn
- Take shorter or fewer showers
- Do full laundry and dishwasher loads
- Fix leaks right away, especially running toilets
How social and economic inequalities are impacting everyone’s life expectancy in America
Researchers at the University of Washington have found that there is something about being born in the United States that gives a person a disadvantage in life expectancy.
According to United Nations counts, Americans will live an average of 7.5 years less than people in countries with the highest life expectancy, despite being one of the wealthiest nations in the world and spending more on health care.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
 Sea Mar Community Health Centers, a Washington State community health organization specializing in service to Latinos, kicked off the Hispanic Heritage Month by hosting the annual Fiestas Patrias Parade and organizing El Grito to celebrate the rich diversity in color, culture, customs, and languages. Fiestas Patrias, or “homeland parties” are celebrated by several Latin American countries that celebrate their independence during the month of September. I am looking presenting the proclamation of September 15th – October 15th as Latino/a/e Heritage Month in King County during next Tuesday’s meeting of the King County Council.
LGBTQ+ Veterans Transitional Housing RFP Award
 Awardees have been announced for the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy – Transitional Housing for LGBTQ+ Veterans in King County Request for Proposals. The Department of Community and Human Services’ Adult Services Division has awarded $1,800,000 to Minority Veterans of America to fund the development for future use of a 4–6 bedroom, single room occupancy residence to serve as a single adult transitional housing program for LGBTQ+ identifying veterans, servicemembers, and their family members aged 18 or over. Congratulations, Minority Veterans of America!
2023 Preservation Celebration
Yesterday at 5:30 p.m., Historic Seattle hosted the 2023 Preservation Celebration, presenting awards to individuals and organizations who have shown outstanding dedication to preservation, community investment, and community advocacy. Congratulations to the awardees: Dr. Dorothy Cordova & Clay Eals, Historic Wallingford, Byrd Barr Place, The Attic Alehouse & Eatery, The Labour Temple, and Seattle International Film Festival.
Calling for warm clothes
 The Queen Anne Helpline is switching out the summer clothes in its resource center and is looking for donations to restock fall and winter supplies. The Helpline is looking for donations of:
- Warm coats & jackets
- Sturdy shoes and boots
- Sweaters
- Jeans and pants
- New socks & underwear
- Gloves, scarves, and other cold weather gear
- Blankets, towels and other linens
And as always, men’s clothing is always especially low in stock, so please consider donating if you have the means.
 Free days at Museum of History and Industry
 The Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) is free on the first Thursday of every month from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
When: Every Thursday
Where: Museum of History and Industry
More information: https://mohai.org/visit/#plan-a-visit
Free days at the Museum of Flight
 Admission to the Museum of Flight is FREE from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month.
When: Every Thursday
Where: Museum of Flight
More information: https://www.museumofflight.org/visit/hours-and-admission
Reykjavik Calling: Iceland Airwaves Off-Venue
 Enjoy a free concert featuring Icelandic artists at the KEXP Gathering Space.
When: Thursday, October 5th
Where: KEXP Gathering Space, 472 1st Ave N
More information: https://kexp.org/events/kexp-events/reykjavik-calling-iceland-airwaves-off-venue/
Youth Advocacy Summit & Fall Fest
 This is a free event for youth, by youth, invites students, parents, leaders, and members of the community to come listen, learn, and participate in the events that students are putting on. Whether you are a young person yourself or another member of the community, all are welcome.
When: Sunday, October 8th, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. from 10 am - 4 pm Where: Highline College - 2400 South 240th Street and on Zoom
More information: https://educationvoters.salsalabs.org/2023FallAdvocacyEvent/index.html?eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=0b744dd9-356f-40e9-b5d6-9d993439557d
Igniting Change, Rising Together
The Discovery Center and the Gates Foundation employee resource group Latinos in Philanthropy hosts author and social-impact consultant Jesse Leon for Igniting Change, Rising Together: Nurturing Intersectional Belonging, Inclusion, and Healing for a Better World.
When: Tuesday, October 10th
In-person: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Virtual via Zoom: 6 to 7 p.m.
Where: The Bill & Melinda Gates Discovery Center
More information: https://web.cvent.com/event/0985bc9b-336f-401a-9f68-c3ee0342c371/summary?rt=Ksxknchgm0KTsmjYLL4MqQ
Drag Loteria: Glamour, Games and Guacamole
Instead of calling out numbers, drag queens perform on stage and participants mark off the corresponding character or image on their loteria cards. This event will include delicious food, exciting prizes, and lots of fun.
When: Thursday, October 12th , 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Bill & Melinda Gates Discovery Center
More information: https://web.cvent.com/event/f02441c1-f474-4af3-b6c8-d316c026fbda/summary?rt=Ksxknchgm0KTsmjYLL4MqQ
Additional upcoming 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.
Event reminders:
Bon Voyage SLU Saturday Market – Saturday, September 30th
Fishermen’s Fall Festival – Saturday, September 30th
Snake River Campaign – Sunday, October 1st
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.
 RSM Volunteers for a Grandly-Scaled Day of Service at YouthCare
 RSM, an audit, tax, and consulting firm, visited YouthCare for a day of volunteering that left an incredible impact. Nearly fifty volunteers from RSM spent the day at six YouthCare sites and got to work deep-cleaning, cooking and serving lunch, and removing furniture. Completing these projects provided a clean and organized space goes which goes so much further than pure aesthetics, but rather, it creates a sense of safety and comfort for the young people who enter YouthCare’s doors.
Helpful and informative links
Wa Na Wari’s Walk the Block showcases Seattle’s Black arts and artists – The Seattle Times
Paper checks are dead. Cash is dying. Who still uses them? – The Seattle Times
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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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