October 13, 2023
 Dear Friends and Neighbors,
First, my heart goes out to those who have lost their lives or been displaced in the horrendous conflicts and the devastating earthquake in the Middle East, especially civilians and children. Sickening, horrific, senseless… I just do not have the adequate words to express at this time.
This week, Executive Constantine released his $511 million mid-biennial budget proposal, which makes modifications to the King County 2023-2024 biennial budget that was adopted last fall.
It is very important to note that this budget forecasts some very serious cuts that may occur if state law isn’t changed. At present, arbitrary caps on property tax revenue and lack of progressive revenue sources will leave the criminal justice system, human services contracts, and other government administrations, such as Elections and Public Health clinics subject to drastic cuts in 2025. If the legislature does not remove these arbitrary caps, our county’s general fund will have a $50 million shortfall next year.
Executive Constantine’s budget proposal eliminates nearly 60 general fund positions and includes further reductions saving a total of $12.6 million, and additional reductions are forecast to be necessary without action by the Legislature.
The Executive’s budget proposal has been transmitted to the King County Council and is expected to be heard in the Budget and Fiscal Management Committee soon. Our budget analysts will be preparing a staff report that will be available to the public.
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
“Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.”
― Nelson Mandela
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During Tuesday’s Government Accountability and Oversight Committee meeting, the committee took action on ordinances establishing bond amounts for certain officers and employees of King County and relating to the office of risk management service.
- During Tuesday’s Council meeting, the Council issued a Proclamation of October 2023 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in King County, in recognition of the many contributions of people with disabilities, and how they strengthen our workforce, our communities, and our county. The Council also 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. The Council also took action on an ordinance authorizing the King County executive to execute an interlocal agreement with the City of Federal Way for the operation and maintenance of traffic signals and related equipment for the city's adaptive traffic control system.
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- After the conclusion of the full Council meeting, the Flood Control District Board of Supervisors met to take final action on an ordinance relating to the operations and finances of the King County Flood Control Zone District, which will authorize the expenditure of District funds for projects and activities in accordance with the Flood Reduction Grants.
- During Wednesday’s Budget and Fiscal Management Committee meeting, the committee took action on ordinances making a net supplemental appropriation to the building repair and replacement fund and authorizing the execution of a new lease to support the operation of the department of public defense, and on a motion requesting the wastewater treatment division develop and maintain a long-term financial and sewer rate forecast.
- During Wednesday’s Regional Policy Committee meeting, the committee was briefed on an overview of UW Medicine as well as on long-term disposal options for regional solid waste, and on the Doors Open cultural access proposal.
If you missed the meetings, recordings and additional materials will be made available here.
 Transportation, Economy, and Environment Committee
Next Tuesday at 9:30 a.m., the committee will receive a general manager’s and a security briefing and will take possible action on a few executive appointments. The committee will also take possible action on motions acknowledging receipt of the Economic Development and Small Business Assistance Strategies Report, a biosolids thermal drying phase 2 report, and motions relating to climate change funding and support for the Re+ Strategic Plan. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Full Council
Next Tuesday at 1:30 p.m., I will be joined by my council colleague Pete von Reichbauer in presenting a recognition of Senator and Governor Daniel J. Evans for his outstanding public service to the state of Washington on his 98th birthday. The council will also take possible action on several executive reappointments, as well as on motions acknowledging receipt of the Civil Protection Order proviso report and the first of two reports on the strategic planning process for the future of secure juvenile detention in King County. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Employment and Administration Committee
After the conclusion of the Council meeting, the committee will receive briefings on the Culture Change consultant report and the Continuity of Operations Plan, as well as updates from Human Resources and the King County Council Chief of Staff. The committee will also take possible action on an appointment to the Citizens’ Elections Oversight Committee. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Committee of the Whole
Next Wednesday at 9:30 a.m., the committee, which I chair, will receive an executive COVID briefing and the King County Library System annual briefing. The committee will also take action on an appointment to the Department of Executive Services Director position as well as on a motion acknowledging receipt of a letter certifying the county's inquest website has been improved. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Regional Transportation Committee
Next Wednesday at 3:00 p.m., the committee will receive briefings on RapidRide K and R Progress and on the implementation of Zero Youth Fare and engagement on reduced fare programs. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Board of Health
Next Thursday at 1:00 p.m., the board will receive a strategic planning update. The board will also take possible action on resolutions identifying the King County Board of Health's selected nonelected member candidates both for reappointment and to begin serving in 2024. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
 For the first time, there are vaccines for all three of the major fall and winter illnesses: COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Everyone older than six months should get a flu shot and the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Older adults, babies, and those who are 32-36 weeks pregnant can get protection from RSV – ask your provider or pharmacist. Visit vaccines.gov to search for locations that have vaccine appointments.
Free mammograms
In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cierra Sisters Inc. is providing free mammograms, with advance appointment on October 21st at Rainier Beach Community Center for:
- Women 40 years & older
- King County residents
- Uninsured or underinsured
- Women with insurance also welcome
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 have them available. Check vaccines.gov to find appointments or check with your provider.
Since June, COVID-19 cases have been on an upward climb in King County and according to the CDC, COVID-19 viruses change and make it harder for our bodies to fight off new versions, or variants, even if you’ve had COVID-19 or been vaccinated previously. If you or someone in your household exhibits COVID-19 related symptoms, please take care of yourself and family and stay home. The CDC recommends employees should be out of the workplace for at least 5 days from the onset of symptoms. For more information from CDC, click 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
2023 set to be deadliest year yet for overdoses in King County – KUOW
King County surpasses record number of drug, alcohol deaths in first 10 months of 2023 – KOMO News
Fentanyl spike leads to record overdose deaths in King County – KUOW
Feeling Terrible After Your Covid Shot? Then It’s Probably Working. – The New York Times
Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrests Increased During COVID-19 Pandemic – Express Healthcare Management
Washington's birth rate has fallen 22% since 2007 – AXIOS
Port Angeles pharmacy becomes first in Washington state approved for abortion drug mifepristone – KUOW
WA judge grants preliminary injunction in mental health battle – The Seattle Times
Pandemic-Era Conditions Blamed for Spike in Cardiac Arrest Deaths – Med Page Today
 Larry Gossett Service Award is open for nominations.
 In 2021, the first annual Larry Gossett Service Award was presented to a community member in recognition of outstanding service, and this year we once again continue the tradition. Your input is desired for consideration of the next award recipient. To guide your choice for nomination, please see more about the award by visiting: Larry Gossett Service Award - King County, Washington
You can find the nomination form online. The form is now open and will be accepting nominations until November 3rd, 2023. An award recipient will be chosen before January 11th.
The East Lake Sammamish Trail is now fully paved and open to the public.
 It’s time to enjoy the newly fully paved East Lake Sammamish Trail! The newly completed 11-mile segment connects with other regional trails to link the Seattle waterfront with Eastside cities and the Cascade Foothills, ultimately contributing to a 44-mile, interconnected trail running from Golden Gardens Park in Ballard to the shores of Lake Sammamish and beyond.
Celebrating Megan Rapinoe
 It was very exciting to celebrate Megan Rapinoe on Friday at Lumen Field for her final home, regular season match. I was joined by Councilmembers Sarah Perry and Claudia Balducci, and Dow Constantine, King County Executive! At the end of regulation play, we presented her with a proclamation as part of a larger celebration of her career.
Congratulations to Metro
 Metro Innovative Mobility Planner Alex Mehn, General Manager Michelle Allison and Mobility Director Christina O'Claire show the award.
On Wednesday, King County Metro was honored with a recognition at the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Transform 2023 Conference. This recognition comes after Metro awarded the APTA 2023 Innovation Award for the Transit GO Rewards program. This program allows riders to earn rewards that save them money on their next trip. APTA, the premier organization representing public transit agencies, gives the Innovation Award each year to members who have demonstrated innovative concepts or effective problem-solving techniques. Congratulations, Metro!
Last Friday’s Gun Lockbox Giveaway
 The King County Regional Gun Violence Program had a successful turnout at the gun lockbox giveaway event last Friday in Burien. Thank you, KCRGV, for promoting safety our communities and responsible firearm storage.
 ShakeOut
 Get ready to drop, cover, and hold on during ShakeOut on Thursday, October 19th at 10:19 a.m. This is the world's largest earthquake drill for earthquake safety.
Farewell to National Nordic Museum Executive Director/CEO Eric Nelson
 Eric Nelson and I in front of the newly installed troll sculpture by Thomas Dambo, at the National Nordic Museum.
Longtime Executive Director and CEO of the National Nordic Museum Eric Nelson has just announced his retirement, ending his service to the museum next July 1st, 2024. Eric has been an invaluable contributor to the success and outreach of the museum, and will truly be missed. Thank you, Eric, for 16 years of dedication to education, culture, and tradition. I’ll miss you!
Annual Beyond Pink Summit: Uplifting Girl Voice
 Registration has officially opened for the 9th annual Beyond Pink Summit: Uplifting Girl Voice, hosted by the Justice for Girls Coalition of Washington State on Wednesday, November 15th. This digital event is free to attend. This year, keynote speaker Dr. Nina Walker, will speak on the topic of sex trafficking prevention by centering the voices of Black girls.
4Culture wants your poem
 It is the last call for poem submissions! Write a poem, 50 words or less, on the theme “Places of Landing.” Your poem may be featured on transit, online, and out in the community next year. If you need inspiration, you can attend the drop-in poetry event at The Roadhouse in Angle Lake Station on Wednesday, October 18th at 5:00 p.m. This event allows attendees to explore the theme Places of Landing, which honors the moments, places, and feelings that tell the stories of our days. Poems are due by October 30th at 11:59 p.m.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces the Application Period for Summer Session of the White House Internship Program
 President Biden and Vice President Harris announced yesterday that the application period for the Summer 2024 session of the White House Internship Program will open on Monday, October 16th and will close on Friday, November 10th. The session will begin in June 2024. Interested candidates can find the Program’s online application at WH.gov/intern.
 Homeowner Information Fair
Learn from speakers about pathways toward affordable homeownership in King County.
When: Saturday, October 14th at 10:00 a.m. Where: Recovery Café Sodo
More information: Register here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/homeownership-information-fair-tickets-696380180867?aff=oddtdtcreator
Cutting Building Emissions with Regional Collaborative Programs
When: Saturday, October 14th at 9:30 a.m.
Where: Zoom
More information: Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Tl_zjcxdScW6WH-O5a8xzg#/registration
Community Apple Pressing Party
Feel free to bring apples or pears to add to the mix. Bring some sealable containers if you would like to bring cider home with you.
When: Saturday, October 14th at 2:30 p.m.
Where: Lower parking lot of the Phinney Center
More information: https://phinneywood.com/2023/10/10/got-apples-come-juice-them-this-saturday/?fbclid=IwAR1k0U7GrW7ZgZajos5r2_vevzYw9sSuumu8Kg5QPCK40Jk-CY9ULJW_y5Q
TurkFest: Turkish Cultural Festival of Seattle
When: Saturday, October 14th and Sunday, October 15th
Where: Seattle Center Armory
More information: https://www.facebook.com/TurkfestSeattle
Ballard NW Senior Center 50th Anniversary
 Come sample appetizers and drinks, mingle with old friends, and make some new ones. This event is an especially exciting one, and at which I’ll be presenting a Council Recognition to Exec. Director Carlye Teel at the celebration.
When: Tuesday, October 17th at 6:00 p.m.
Where: Ballard NW Senior Center
More information: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=698863498942662&set=a.545284124300601
Additional upcoming events:
West Seattle Link Extension Station Planning Forum
Join Sound Transit to see updated designs for future light rail stations in West Seattle and SODO and share your ideas and feedback.
When: Wednesday, October 25th from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Where: Alki Masonic Center, 4736 40th Avenue SW
More information: If you can’t join in-person, Sound Transit will be hosting an online survey on its online open house.
Best Starts Capital Program In-Person Open House
 Join Best Starts for a presentation on the Best Starts Capital Program to learn more about upcoming funding opportunities. You will also have the opportunity to meet the Best Starts Capital Program manager, learn about this new investment area, understand Priority 1 funding, learn about the application process, and have an opportunity to ask questions.
When: Thursday, October 26th at 5:00 p.m.
Where: City of Kenmore City Hall, Council Chambers, 18120 68th Ave NE
More information: https://beststartsblog.com/2023/10/03/save-the-date-best-starts-capital-program-in-person-open-house-on-october-26/
2023 Legacy of Love African American Caregivers Forum
The African American Caregivers Forum is an annual event with a special focus on
memory care, presented during National Family Caregivers Month. Professionals and
family caregivers will share their challenges and joys in caring for loved ones.
When: Saturday, November 4th from 10:00 a.m.– 2:00 p.m.
Where: Northwest African American Museum
More information: https://www.agewisekingcounty.org/publications/agewisekingcounty/october-2023/african-american-caregiver-forum-focuses-on-dementia-care/
Event reminders:
Fentanyl in King County: Join The Seattle Times for a live discussion – October 16th from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
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.
 A Q&A with Redmond’s first Muslim city council member
 Varisha Khan became the youngest person and the first Muslim woman elected to the Redmond City Council in 2019. Now, Khan’s election has provided representation for nonwhite community members and a shift for more progressive leaders to become involved in politics in the area. Read more about Khan and her time on the Redmond City Council from The Seattle Times.
Helpful and informative links
A Tukwila church steps up where the federal government fails on migration – The Seattle Times
What does it take to succeed in the Washington State Legislature? – UW Daily (I’m mentioned)
King County felony caseload not expected to normalize within next several years – The Center Square
King County expands Metro Flex services to enhance transit options in Issaquah – Intelligent Transport
Giant skull sculptures at downtown Seattle parks celebrate Day of the Dead – KIRO 7
Homelessness remains top concern for Seattle voters, but public safety is gaining ground – KUOW
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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