Your Weekly Update on What's Happening at the King County Council  

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

At next Tuesday’s Council meeting, the King County Council will be voting on a proposal to raise the minimum wage in unincorporated areas to $20.29 an hour, with annual increases starting in 2025. This would make rural and suburban communities in King County tied with the City of Tukwila for the highest minimum wage in the nation.

This proposal causes me extreme concern. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, and many will not be able to manage the added financial burden of such a high minimum wage—especially those in rural areas, far from Seattle and other major cities in our region.

Yet, it seems likely that the minimum wage hike may possibly pass on Tuesday. Because of this, I’ve introduced an amendment that would stipulate that tips, gratuities, bonuses, and benefits can count toward the hourly minimum wage rate. This will help ensure that a minimum wage in unincorporated King County is paid and felt accurately across all sectors and will also help prevent hourly wage earners from losing hours.

I am hopeful that other Councilmembers will support my amendment on Tuesday and encourage you to watch the meeting on King County TV or online here.

All my best,

Reagan Dunn
King County Councilmember
District 9

Dunn delivers major grant to Maple Valley Food Bank

King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn with Maple Valley Food Bank Executive Director Jon Cantalini and Community Health Coordinator Allie Ross

I recently visited the Maple Valley Food Bank to present them with a check for a King County housing stability grant totaling $30,000. I am proud to support Maple Valley Food Bank, an exceptional organization that provides a grocery-style food bank, financial assistance, outreach and resource services, and school supplies for children in need.

Dunn proposes study of roundabouts, other safety fixes on 140th Ave SE in Fairwood in wake of fatal crash

This week, I introduced legislation to study options for improving road safety in the Fairwood community, where a deadly car crash recently put a spotlight on problem areas on one of Fairwood’s main thoroughfares.

This legislation will take a comprehensive look at ideas from the community for improving road safety—such as roundabouts, cameras, and increased traffic enforcement—so that together we can act to protect our community from dangerous driving.

Learn more here.

Dunn nominates Neil Strege to the 4Culture Board

I am proud to have nominated Neil Strege to the 4Culture Board. Neil has many years of experience in local government and has a particular interest in history and historical preservation. Congratulations, Neil, and thank you for your service! 

2024 Flood Reduction Grants

The King County Flood Control District recently announced the availability of $12M in grant funding for projects that reduce the impact of flooding. These grants are for small and medium local flood reduction projects that address existing or potential flooding. Eligible applicants include homeowner associations, schools, non-profits, tribes, cities and towns, and King County agencies.

Applications are due May 31. Learn more and apply at the Flood Control District website.

VSHSL Employment Training, Placement, and Supports Funding Opportunity

The King County Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Employment Training, Placement, and Supports with funding from the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy (VSHSL). 

VSHSL seeks to fund programs and services that prepare unemployed and underemployed job seekers from marginalized populations for employment, connect them with employment opportunities, and support them in succeeding as an employee.

Applications are due May 31^st. Learn more and apply.

In the News

• The Courier-Herald: Project targets major flooding of Green River