 September 13, 2022
 Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I’m absolutely elated with the passage of the Doors Open legislation that has been years in the making, beginning during my time in the state Senate, and now with final action taken by our King County Council. This important levy will provide nearly $800 million in projected funding for access to science, heritage and the arts in King County over the next seven years, living up to its name by ensuring that new start-up organizations will receive opportunities for essential funding to open their doors, and that more than 500 arts, science, and heritage organizations will have the resources they need to keep their doors open.
These organizations can now expand their partnerships and programs in underserved communities where they will reach youth, seniors, homeless populations, victims of trauma, memory care patients, public school students, and so many more, while opening new doors for our youth to inspire them for their future. I am so very grateful to my colleagues on the Council for their unanimous vote, and especially my cosponsors Claudia Balducci and Sarah Perry, Councilmembers Joe McDermott and Pete von Reichbauer, who shepherded the measure through the Regional Policy Council; Executive Dow Constantine; 4Culture; the Legislature, including prime sponsor of the enabling bill Rep. Julia Reed; and Inspire Washington, for working to bring Doors Open to the finish line. It truly is the capstone on my public service career as I prepare to retire at the end of December.
Learn more in this article from The Seattle Times or read the full press release here, or see the op-ed in yesterday’s edition of The Stranger which I co-authored with CM Claudia Balducci and Manny Cawaling, Executive Director of Inspire Washington here. Also, be sure to check out this clip from KNKX, where I speak about the importance of this legislation.
Also, I loved attending the premiere private showing of “Boys in the Boat” last night at the SIFF Cinema Downtown (formerly Cinerama)! The author, Daniel James Brown, was there, as was the Director George Clooney who spoke along with Andy Jassy, Amazon CEO. The film was fabulous, and what a heartwarming account brought to life by Daniel James Brown in his NY Times’ best seller book, written after he met Joe Rantz, one of the boys from the 1936 UW rowing team that won the Olympics Gold Medal for the U.S. in 1946 Nazi Berlin, and his daughter Judy Rantz Millman. Be sure to see it when it comes out on Dec. 25th; you’ll love it! You can watch George Clooney speak about the Boys in the Boat before yesterday’s event here, or check out his interview alongside Daniel James Brown in this article from The Seattle Times.
 My husband, Alex, and I attended the premiere private showing of “Boys in the Boat,” at which George Clooney spoke about the film; author Daniel James Brown was present as well. I also enjoyed seeing Ana Marie Cauce, U.W. President.
As you can read below, on Tuesday the Council proclaimed the week of December 25th as “Boys in the Boat Week” in King County. What an exciting time for Seattle, SIFF (Seattle International Film Festival), the University of Washington, and our film and arts and culture sectors!
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
“One of the things I learned was always to question the status quo. And not to be afraid to speak up when you do discover something that needs to be said.”
– Kelly Bayer Rosmarin, Optus CEO
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During Tuesday’s full Council meeting, as noted above, I presented a proclamation of December 25-31, 2023 as “Boys in the Boat Week” in King County to recognize the release of the George Clooney-directed film on Christmas Day based on the best-selling book by local author Daniel James Brown, who joined us for the proclamation. This inspirational story of the UW Men’s rowing team of working-class young men winning gold for the United States in the 1936 Olympics in Nazi Berlin is an epic account of perseverance, dedication, talent, and courage, and will surely be enjoyed by all who have read the book or who view the upcoming film being released on Christmas Day. I’d like to extend a very special thank you to the author, Daniel James Brown; Judy Rantz Willman, daughter of Joe Rantz who was himself one of the rowers and the focus of the book and film; UW President Ana Mari Cauce (who spoke with us virtually); Nicole Klein, ASUW Shell House Project Director; Aaron Hoard, UW External Relations Director; Judy Nyquist, ASUW Shell House board member; Melanie Barstow, UW rowing alumna and ASUW Shell House tour originator and guide; Michael Callahan, UW Rowing Coach; and Kevin Hall, ASUW Shell House board member and UW rowing alumnus, who all joined us to receive the proclamation. When available, you can view the presentation here.
- We also took action on my proposed motion requesting the executive provide recommendations to restore justice for race-based restrictive real estate practices. And we passed our supplemental budget and the Doors Open program, and we amended the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy Implementation Plan ordinance that was approved by the Regional Policy Committee special meeting this morning. In addition, on Wednesday, the council held a special off-site meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday with state legislators from King County to discuss our legislative priorities.
- During Wednesday’s Regional Water Quality Committee meeting, the committee discussed requesting the Executive prioritize the development of the update to the Regional Wastewater Services Plan. The committee also received a Chair’s report, MWPAAC report, and Wastewater Treatment Division report.
- During today’s special Regional Policy Committee meeting, the committee voted unanimously to approve the Council’s amendment adopted on Tuesday on the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy (VSHSL) Implementation plan. The ordinance, having been passed, will govern the expenditures of the levy to achieve outcomes related to housing stability, healthy living, financial stability, social engagement, and service system access and improvement for veterans and servicemembers and their respective families; seniors and their caregivers; and resilient communities in King County.
If you missed the meetings, recordings and additional materials will be made available here.
 Government Accountability and Oversight Committee
During next Tuesday’s 9:30 a.m. meeting, the committee will receive a briefing from King County Elections and take possible action on a motion acknowledging receipt of the Menstrual Hygiene Product Implementation Plan, as well as on two executive appointments. Meeting materials will be made available prior to the meeting here.
Full Council
During next Tuesday’s 1:30 p.m. meeting, my final meeting as a King County Councilmember, Councilmembers Zahilay and Balducci will be sworn in as they’ve been re-elected for new terms. The council will also take possible action on ordinances relating to the county property tax levies for collection in 2024 and purchase of additional body worn cameras for the King County sheriff's office. At the end of the meeting, CM McDermott and I will both receive a Federal Recognition from Senator Patty Murray for our service to the county. 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 vaccine has been approved, and some pharmacies have them available. Check vaccines.gov to find appointments or check with your provider.
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
San Francisco faces deadliest year for drug overdoses due to rise of fentanyl – The Guardian
Some WA hospitals bring back indoor masking with flu, RSV on the rise – The Seattle Times
Time Is Almost Up to Select a Medicare Plan for 2024 – South Seattle Emerald
History in the making at Bloodworks NW as new guidelines open door to donations from gay men – KIRO 7
Correcting the record of pneumonia cases in kids – The Washington Post
Using Pap smears for earlier ovarian cancer detection shows promise in small new study – STAT News
Mpox surge in Congo raises fears world will ignore warnings again – The Washington Post
 Council approves proposal seeking options to restore justice for redlining in King County
 The King County Council on Tuesday approved my motion requesting the executive to provide recommendations to restore justice for race-based restrictive real estate practices, building on a previous, comprehensive report on the impacts of historic redlining across King County for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). This report will ensure that we have potential strategies to charter a more equitable future. And, in the meantime, I trust that keeping this work at the forefront will minimize harm to communities that have been underinvested in for decades. Learn more in the press release here.
General election update
 This election has officially come to a close and the November General Election was officially certified on November 28th. During this election, King County Elections found a turnout lag behind its initial projections. KCE had anticipated a 45% turnout but ended up with a 38% this time around.
This election ended with two races within the mandatory recount range, with the Newcastle City Council Position 3 heading into a mandatory machine recount, and Mercer Island School Board Position 5 heading into a mandatory hand recount. KCE expects to hold all recount activities between December 6th – 15th. A more detailed schedule of the recount is available here.
For any additional election information and to view final results, click here.
King County launches one-time grant opportunity for homelessness assistance in south King County cities.
King County has allocated $5 million in one-time funding for one or more cities located in south King County to site, construct, or operate projects that support and serve unsheltered individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Eligible proposals include:
- Acquiring ownership or site control of land/property for residential uses through purchase, donation, or other means.
- Building construction, including feasibility, due diligence, permitting, architectural design, engineering, etc.
- Purchasing furnishings (e.g., beds/bedding, lockers, tables, and chairs) and appliances (e.g., refrigerators, washers/dryers, air purifiers).
- Supporting operational and program costs associated with an existing shelter.
The RFP is open now, and applications will be rolling until the funds are exhausted. The first round of applications will be reviewed beginning January 8. Only responsive proposals that meet the threshold requirements will be evaluated by a King County designated review panel. Notifications of awards will begin in early 2024. The funding will cover costs incurred from the contract start date through December 31, 2026. Find more information here and click here to apply.
King County 2024 Legislative Priorities
King County’s legislative priorities for 2024 have been released, which include:
- Allowing local governments to fund critical services, build housing, and reduce homelessness.
- Building on investments strengthening access to behavioral health care.
- Stabilizing Harborview Medical Center revenue.
- Bolstering the public safety and criminal legal system.
- Protecting our climate and environment.
Read the full details of this year’s legislative priorities here.
Executive Constantine announces $109 million for 52 conservation projects.
 Last year, King County voters approved Executive Dow Constantine’s initiative to accelerate land conservation. This week, he announced an allocation of $109 million for 52 projects, which was approved earlier by the King County Council. These investments will help promote a necessary increase in climate resiliency and access to open space, and advance food sovereignty where there is the greatest need. Learn more here.
King County providing temporary hotel room support for asylum seekers at Tukwila church
King County has hired a service provider and begun funding up to 100 hotel rooms for people living in and around the Riverton Park United Methodist Church in Tukwila. This will help move people to a more stable location and prioritizing the most vulnerable at the site, including families with small children or for those who are pregnant. This week, the King County Council approved $3 million in funding for the project, the first designated resource to assist people on an interim basis. Learn more in this article from The Seattle Times.
Executive Constantine outlines updated 2024 Comprehensive Plan proposal.
Yesterday, Executive Dow Constantine transmitted the proposed 2024 Comprehensive Plan to the King County Council. The proposal is a once-a-decade update, which guides where people live, work, and play in unincorporated King County. This update on maintains a focus on affordable housing, climate resilience, and social equity. Learn more here.
 Happy Hanukkah
 Happy Hanukkah to our Jewish community members! Yesterday marked the first day of the holiday, is Judaism’s “festival of lights.” During eight consecutive nightfalls, Jewish families and friends will gather to light one additional candle in the menorah, while sharing food and drink. May all those who celebrate have a lovely holiday.
Inslee previews budget strategy to take down fentanyl.
On Monday, Governor Jay Inslee hosted a roundtable to discuss the fentanyl crisis and to preview his proposals for the upcoming legislative session. His proposed budget will add over $50 million in new funding tackle opioids for the 2023–25 biennium, augmenting investments from the state’s $82 million opioid settlements, and general fund investments within the 2023–25 biennial budget. Read more here.
USDOT holding AAPI Listening Session
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has reached out to King County Metro and requested that Metro collaborate with them to host a roundtable Listen Session in the Seattle region regarding the experiences of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) transit riders.
This Listening Session is part of a series of national discussions meant to help USDOT, FTA, and transit operators better understand local perceptions of public transit by Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders and identify potential solutions to better meet the needs of these communities. These discussions are part of USDOT’s Agency Action Plan to advance equity and justice in AA & NHPI communities, in close collaboration with the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific. The Listening Session has been scheduled for December 12th and will be led by Lynda Tran, USDOT’s Director of Public Engagement and Senior Advisor to Secretary Buttigieg, and Susan Fletcher, FTA’s Region 10 Administrator.
Appointments urgently needed
 We are experiencing a critical need for blood donations, and patients are relying on local blood donors to support their treatment. Give the gift of a lifesaving pint of blood this season. Gay men (finally) are permitted to donate blood. Book an appointment here.
Coping with the stress of the holiday season
With the holiday season upon us, many feel stress, pressure, and anxiety. Be sure to take a moment and listen to what your body and mind tell you that you need. SAMHSA has also put together a helpful guide on how to take care of yourself in one small way every day. Check it out above or click here to learn more.
Fanz 4 Good holiday grants
Do you know a family who could use a helping hand this holiday season? You can help bring a little joy to their faces by nominating them for a Holiday Grant from Fanz 4 Good Foundation. Please share their story at fanz4good.org and they could receive a Fred Meyer gift card for up to $250 for gifts, groceries or a Holiday meal. Nominations are being accepted through December 12th.
 Light Up Kirkland
 Have some cocoa and treats and then take a stroll on the grounds of the park to view a winter wonderland of lights, followed by a bonfire on the beach and music from local students.
When: This Saturday, December 9th from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Where: Kirkland Medina Park
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/363741646181366/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_top_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Pathway of Lights
 Come stroll the glimmering Green Lake circuit, paths, and docks which will be lit with thousands of twinkling candles. And while you wander through the magic of the sparkling lights, enjoy complimentary refreshments and live seasonal music. Also, look out for the return of the popular Hot Air Balloon Glow from 4:30-5:30 p.m., weather dependent.
When: This Saturday, December 9th from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Where: Green Lake Community Center
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/347738661253095?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Urban Craft Market
 When: Wednesday, December 13th from 12:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Where: 400 Fairview Ave N.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1500189824104647/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_top_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Christmas Market at Haven Salon
When: Sunday, December 10th from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Where: Haven Salon
Trollstice Holiday Market Pop-Up
 When: Saturday, December 16th from 12:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Where: 3401 Evanston Ave N.
More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/376881404817793/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_top_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
 New mothers can stay with their babies at this Washington prison.
Early Head Start learning center at the Washington Corrections Center for Women in Gig Harbor maintains a Residential Parenting Program for minimal-security pregnant inmates who are allowed to keep their babies with them and receive parenting support. In an article from Crosscut, new mothers Zorn, Christina, and Marie discuss the impact of the program on their lives and a better future for their children.
Additional and helpful links
King County Council forecasts dire cuts to come as it trims budget – 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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