 Dear King County District 2 Resident,
This is your King County Council Chair, Girmay Zahilay. Below are some news, updates, and events that I think you’ll find useful. This email will provide you a snapshot of recent updates. For a more comprehensive list of my office’s legislation and priorities, check out my King County website, where I list what we’ve been working on over the past year. You can also follow my Facebook and Twitter for real-time updates on all our work!
Here's what we’ve been up to, what’s ahead, and how you can plug in.
Announcements & Policy Updates
It’s Budget Season!
Executive Braddock has transmitted her $19.7 billion proposed budget to the County Council, kicking off budget season here at King County. This means that all Council committees are on hold, with the exception of the Budget and Financial Management (BFM) Committee, Committee of the Whole (COW), and Full Council.
The Council will spend the next few months reviewing and making crucial decisions on how to allocate county funds. We’re looking at a particularly difficult budget year, with the County facing a significant shortfall. As your Council Chair, my priority for this budget is to protect the core services that our communities rely on, including our public safety system, our behavioral health system, and our investments in the region’s affordable housing supply.
I encourage you to stay informed about the budget and share your thoughts, concerns, and priorities with us in the coming month!
Read more about the Executive’s proposed budget here.
Help Us Shape the Budget!
Since I was elected, I’ve always made it a priority to make our county government as accessible and transparent as possible to everyone in our county. This biennial budget sets our community’s priorities for health, housing, transit, parks, and public safety. Your input is essential in shaping how these dollars are invested.
Throughout this process, there will be many opportunities to learn more about what is being proposed, give input on what you want to see prioritized, and make sure your voice is heard:
- Read the Executive’s proposed 2026-2027 King County Budget Book and view her key investments
- Provide public comment at a Budget and Fiscal Committee meeting or submit your comments online.
- Attend a Budget Panel meeting: Weeks 2 and 3 of the Council’s budget review process include panel meetings to conduct in-depth briefings about specific agency budgets
- Panel 1 – Transit, DNRP, Local Services, and Roads9:00 a.m., Tuesdays, October 7 and 14, 2025Webinar ID: 896 2617 9915
- Panel 2 – Law and Justice9:00 a.m., Wednesdays, October 8 and 15, 2025Webinar ID: 818 4038 3187
- Panel 3 – Health, Housing, and Human Services9:00 a.m., Thursdays, October 9 and 16, 2025Webinar ID: 896 6184 0735
Every comment helps guide how your tax dollars support the services our community relies on.
Advancing Transparency and Accountability in DCHS Contracts
A few weeks ago, the King County Auditor’s Office released a troubling report on how DCHS managed its contracts and oversaw public funds, uncovering significant failures in oversight and potentials for fraud, waste, and misuse of taxpayer dollars. In light of this audit’s findings, the Council moved swiftly to unanimously pass legislation strengthening oversight of DCHS contracts in order to restore transparency and accountability.
The legislation expands the County’s oversight of contracts, requires stronger compliance practices, and adds more reporting requirements with the overall aim of restoring the public’s trust in County contracting and fiscal stewardship. I’m proud to have worked with the sponsor, Councilmember Dunn, to tighten the legislation while ensuring that small service providers are given the support they need to meet the higher accountability standards.
The public places their trust in us to ensure that their hard-earned tax dollars are used to improve the lives of people who rely on these services. Our commitment to responsible financial stewardship is non-negotiable. The failure to adhere to this standard puts the integrity of our government at risk and undermines the trust that our constituents have in us.
The audit made it clear that we must raise the bar for accountability and transparency in how public funds are managed. This vote is an important first step in restoring trust in King County’s ability to manage public funds while continuing to provide essential services to our communities. I’m grateful for the quick action and collaboration from all involved, including Councilmember Dunn, the Executive’s office, DCHS, and our community partners.
There’s more work to be done in the weeks ahead as we look for ways to strengthen oversight through our budget process. Stay tuned!
Supporting Behavioral Health Systems in King County
I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in renewing funding for our region’s behavioral health systems. The Mental Illness and Drug Dependency Behavioral Health Sales Tax Fund (MIDD) supports mental health and addiction services countywide.
Since its inception, MIDD has served more than 100,000 people and launched over 20 initiatives, including school-based mental health support, next-day substance use assessments, and expanded mobile crisis teams. The results are incredibly promising: after three years, participants saw 67% fewer crisis service engagements, 62% fewer jail bookings, 36% fewer hospitalizations, and 33% fewer emergency room visits.
King County’s behavioral health crisis touches every corner of our communities, and we must tackle the issue with the urgency that it deserves. As the federal government slashes federal funding for social safety nets, we must use every tool we can at the local level to safeguard these services. Our vote to extend funding for the program ensures that these vital programs can continue to serve our communities for years to come.
Read more about MIDD here and here.
Flood Control District awards over $1 million for flood reduction projects in District 2
The King County Flood Control District has approved over $1 million in grant funding for two flood reduction projects in District 2.
One project, led by the yəhaw̓ Indigenous Creatives Collective, will restore fish passage along Mapes Creek. The other, led by Seattle Parks and Recreation, will reduce flooding and treat stormwater in Arboretum Creek to protect the Arboretum and Union Bay.
I’m proud to see the Flood Reduction Grant Program supporting two incredible projects in District 2 that reflect both our environmental goals and our community needs.These efforts show the heart of this program: Partnering with local communities, Tribal leaders, and local organizations to strengthen our environment and build a healthier, more resilient region for future generations.
Funded through the Steve Bleifuhs Memorial Flood Reduction Grant Program, these efforts are part of over $14.8 million awarded countywide to address flood risks and build climate resilience.
Read more here.
Congratulations to District 2’s WaterWorks Grants Recipients!
We are thrilled to announce our 2025 WaterWorks grants recipients!
These three organizations protect clean water and reduce pollution in District 2 communities:
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Long Live the Kings (in partnership with District 4, Councilmember Jorge Barón) — Improving water quality in the Lake Washington Ship Canal to protect salmon and support their safe passage through our water systems.
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Zero Waste Washington — Empowering youth in the greater Duwamish Valley to fight stormwater pollution, keeping harmful runoff out of Puget Sound.
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Environmental Coalition of South Seattle — Expanding hazardous waste prevention with their Immigrant Youth Water Stewards program by preventing toxins from entering our waterways.
About WaterWorks: King County’s WaterWorks Grant Program invests in community-driven projects that protect water quality, restore habitat, and reduce pollution.
Together, these projects strengthen our environment, engage youth, and protect waterways for future generations. Read more about the WaterWorks program here.
Metro Adds More Than 900 Weekly Bus Trips
With Metro's latest service change on August 30, King County has added more than 900 weekly bus trips to help make connections to Sound Transit's 2 Line light rail stations easier.
Learn more on the Metro Matters blog.
Metro Increased Fares on September 1
Adult fares have gone up on King County Metro buses, Metro Flex, both Seattle Streetcar lines, and both King County Water Taxi routes. ORCA LIFT fares on both Water Taxi routes also rose, but all other reduced fares for Senior, Disabled, Youth, and ORCA LIFT riders stayed the same. Youths aged 18 and under ride free with a Youth Transit Pass.
The new adult $3 fare brings the price of riding Metro buses, Metro Flex, and the Seattle Streetcar in alignment with Sound Transit’s flat fare on Link light rail and Express buses. The Metro Vanpool/Transit pass has gone from $99 to $108 to account for this new fare on regular transit service.
This is Metro’s first adult bus fare increase since the agency established a flat fare in 2018. See this Metro Matters blog post for more information.
Ruth Woo Fellows Graduate
Congrats to the 2024-25 Ruth Woo Emerging Leaders Fellows Monica Alfonzo, Zeinab Al-Mohanawy, Priscilla de Andrade, Marissa Maldonado, and Saaed Mahamood who were honored this month at the King County Council meeting. The fellowship gives individuals from disadvantaged communities the opportunity to explore public service work in a variety of King County departments.
Skyway Homeownership and and Greenspace Project
When I first joined the County Council, I helped create the Participatory Budgeting program in King County, which empowers residents to shape their neighborhoods by directly proposing ideas for improvements and voting on which projects receive funding. Recently, through the Participatory Budgeting process, the County funded the Skyway Homeownership and Greenspace Project.
I’m proud of the many amazing projects we’ve funded through Participatory Budgeting, but this project holds a special place in my heart. When I was 13, my family moved from South Seattle to Skyway. It wasn’t far, but it felt like a completely different world. There were fewer parks, fewer places for people to gather, and less visible investment from local government. That neglect impacted me and my family greatly and it’s part of what drives my work in public service today.
The Skyway Homeownership and Greenspace Project is personal. It’s a chance to begin addressing the long history of disinvestment in this community and to help families stay rooted here. With 57 permanently affordable homes and 11 acres of preserved green space, this project reflects the kind of future Skyway residents deserve—one where people can stay, thrive, and enjoy shared public spaces.
I’m grateful to the many community partners who’ve worked hard to make this possible. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together with the Skyway Coalition, Homestead, and others. This project is a step toward making sure Skyway remains a place people can call home for generations to come.
Read more about the project in the South Seattle Emerald here.
 Photo courtesy of the South Seattle Emerald.
Mercer Middle School Gains a New Building
I’ve always been a proud Mercer Mustang, but walking up to my middle school and seeing the brand-new building at the ribbon cutting took my pride to another level.
This incredible upgrade was only possible because of the vision and hard work of so many people: the principal, teachers, and staff who serve our kids every day; the architects, construction crews, and school district leaders who brought the plans to life; the elected officials who championed it; and the voters and taxpayers who made the investment in our community’s future.
Our students deserve to learn, play, and grow in a space that reflects their worth and potential. Today, Mercer Middle School sends that message loud and clear.
Go Mustangs!
Commemorating the Week without Driving
Last week, the Council passed a proclamation recognizing the Week Without Driving, joining communities across the state in highlighting the importance of accessible, inclusive transportation. This initiative calls attention to the daily realities faced by many residents who cannot or do not drive due to age, disability, income, or personal choice.
By adopting this proclamation, we affirm our commitment to building a transportation system that works for everyone, not just those with access to a car. This is our promise that we will make sure our infrastructure, policies, and planning can better serve every member of our community. Thank you to the advocates and community members who helped bring this forward.
Celebrating National Service Dog Month
This month, the Council proclaimed September 2025 as National Service Dog Month, recognizing the vital role service dogs play in supporting people living with disabilities. These highly trained companions empower adults, children, and veterans to live more independent, connected lives by providing assistance, safety, and emotional support.
By adopting this proclamation, we celebrate the life-changing impact of service dogs and reaffirm our commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and dignity for all residents. Thank you to the advocates, families, and organizations who work tirelessly to advance awareness of the transformative bond between service dogs and the people they serve.
Recognizing National Recovery Month & Honoring a Community Champion
The Council also proclaimed September 2025 as National Recovery Month and recognized Heather Venegas as the 2025 King County Recovery Champion. Since 2018, Heather has served as Director of the King County Recovery Coalition, where she has led efforts to advance substance use recovery and mental health wellness.
Through her years of service, countless individuals living with substance use disorder have found recovery, and her leadership continues to strengthen the network of care and support across our region. We commend Heather for her dedication and celebrate the resilience of all those in recovery.
Celebrating Latino/a/e Heritage Month
The Council proclaimed September 15 to October 15, 2025, as Latino/a/e Heritage Month in King County. The Latino/a/e community is a vital part of the cultural, economic, and political life of our region, representing nearly 11% of our population.
This month is an opportunity to honor and celebrate the many contributions people of Latino/a/e heritage bring to our community and to reaffirm our commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging for all.
Honoring Mexican Independence Day
This month, the Council recognized September 16, 2025, as Mexican Independence Day in King County. This historic day commemorates Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla’s call for liberty on September 16, 1810, which launched the 11-year struggle culminating in Mexico’s independence in 1821.
We join our Mexican and Mexican American community members in celebrating this rich history and honoring the lasting cultural contributions that continue to shape our region.
Raising Awareness for Diaper Need
The King County Council and the Executive proclaimed September 15–21, 2025, as Diaper Need Awareness Week in King County. Nearly one in two families struggle with diaper need, highlighting a critical challenge for many parents and caregivers.
We encourage our community to support this effort by donating generously to diaper banks, diaper drives, and organizations such as Westside Baby and KidVantage, which provide vital resources to families across the region.
King County Rural Forest Commission
Do you have a background in forestry? Are you interested in keeping our rural forests viable? If so, we encourage you to apply for the King County Rural Forest Commission Board!
The RFC is currently accepting applications for board members until October 31st.
The RFC’s vision and focus is to advise the King County Council and King County Executive on policies, programs and regulations affecting rural forests and to advise on ways to conserve forestland and retain working forests in King County. For more information about RFC’s work, read here.
Road Services Seeks Input on Traffic Safety in Unincorporated King County
Road Services is working on a plan to improve traffic safety in unincorporated King County, and would like to hear from you. Your insight will help them build a clearer picture of what’s happening in your community, and will help King County apply for grants to improve traffic safety.
Help make county roads safer to drive, bike, walk, and roll on. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts at this website.
Community Advisory Committee for Law Enforcement Seek Members
The Office of Law Enforcement Oversight (OLEO) represents the interests of the public in its efforts to hold the King County Sheriff’s Office accountable for providing fair and just police services. OLEO is looking for community members who want to serve as advocates for the interests of the diverse communities across King County. Learn more and apply here.
Woodland Park Zoo Seeks Community Feedback
The Woodland Park Zoo is seeking community feedback! Your feedback will guide plans to strengthen commitment to conservation and sustainability, celebrate diversity, and build deeper connections across people, animals, and nature. Fill out the survey at this website
Auditor’s Office Seeks Public Input
Have you experienced challenges with King County services or have ideas for how things could work better? The King County Auditor’s Office wants to hear from you! They’ve launched a public input portal where community members can share their experiences and suggest potential topics for future audits. Your input helps ensure the government works effectively, efficiently and equitably for everyone. You can read more about the King County Auditor’s Office here.
Upcoming Events
RGVP Gun Buyback Event
The King County Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention and King County Sheriff’s Office are hosting a drive-thru gun buyback event Saturday, October 4 at the King County Fire District 20 in Skyway from 9 AM to 12 PM. This event is a safe, voluntary and anonymous opportunity to dispose of unwanted firearms.
Gun buybacks are one of many ways residents can work together to reduce the number of firearms in our community and keep guns out of the hands of those in crisis or from being unintentionally misused.
Gift cards will be given in exchange for firearms and vary in amounts based on the type of firearm surrendered.
- $25 for antique firearms, junk guns, inoperable firearms, receivers/frames only, and bump-fire stocks
- $50 for muzzle-loading firearms manufactured after 1941
- $100 for rifles, shotguns, .22LR weapons firearms, and revolvers
- $200 for pistols
- $300 for AR-15s, AK-47s, and machine guns
- $0 for toy guns, BB/pellet guns, homemade firearms, non-firing objects that look like firearms, ammunition, magazines, other ammunition-feeding devices, and firearm accessories, including scopes, optical sights, lights, or other accessories attached to a firearm
For more information, please email rgv@kingcounty.gov.
Free Dental Services for Medicaid-Enrolled Kids
King County is offering free dental care for kids enrolled in Medicaid (Apple Health) at the Skyway Resource Center (12610 76th Avenue S) on two upcoming Saturdays: October 4 and December 6, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
If your child has tooth pain, cavities, sensitivity, gum disease, or simply needs a dental provider, they may qualify for an appointment.
Call 1-800-756-5437 or email abcd@kingcounty.gov. to see if your child is eligible and schedule a visit.
All kids ages 0-18 in Washington State can get free vaccines!
Kids 18 and under in Washington can get all routinely recommended vaccines at no cost from a health care provider that participates in the Childhood Vaccine program.
Families might be charged an administration fee by the vaccine provider, but don't have to pay if they can't afford it.
If children receive other services at the same time, like a sports physical or well-child check, families might be charged an office visit fee. But they'll never be charged for the cost of the vaccine.
The Washington State Department of Health provides a full list of school and child care vaccination requirements in multiple languages for families to check that children are up to date.
There are about 300 Childhood Vaccine Program providers in King County.
Alan M. Painter Grants: Community project organizers in unincorporated King County have until Dec. 5 to apply for 2026 funds
The Department of Local Services is now accepting applications for the 2026 Alan M. Painter Grant Program. This popular program supports projects and investments that promote inclusivity and enhance unincorporated communities. Funded projects benefit all community members, regardless of race, income, or language spoken. Funds may not be used for political activities.
A total of $90,000 will be awarded for projects in 2026, in individual grants of less than $5,000 per project. Funding for chosen projects will begin in March 2026.
Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, December 5.
Learn more or to apply on the Alan M. Painter Grant Program page.
Background:
The King County Council approved renaming the grants program to honor Alan M. Painter, the founding director of King County’s Community Service Areas program. Alan was a long-time public servant who also worked in the City of Seattle and served communities across King County.
The grant program that now bears his name supports projects that advance the King County Strategic Plan and achieve one or more of the following goals:
- Promote the engagement of unincorporated area residents in community or civic activities
- Educate local residents about issues that affect them
- Identify and gather community needs and priorities
- Meet King County’s equity and social justice goals of increasing fairness and opportunity for all people, particularly people of color and those with low incomes and/or limited English.
Since the program began, King County has awarded more than $1 million in grant money to community organizations.
Allen Family Philanthropies Announces Creative Youth Development RFP
Allen Family Philanthropies (formerly the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation) has released a Request for Proposals focused on Creative Youth Development in Washington State. The initiative aims to expand access to existing (not new) high-quality youth programs that combine hands-on artmaking with life skill development.
The foundation expects to award 10–12 three-year grants, with each grant up to $500,000, to eligible community-based nonprofits and Tribal organizations. Funding will support ongoing efforts that give Washington’s young people (ages 13–26) opportunities for artistic growth and leadership development outside of school. All eligible organizations are encouraged to submit a letter of interest, which is due November 19, 2025. For more details, please visit their web page.
AED Program Now Open!
The Medic One Foundation is offering grants to help local nonprofits & government groups in King & Snohomish counties purchase AEDs for public spaces like community centers, parks, and law enforcement vehicles.
- Priority for vulnerable & underserved communities
- Grants cover up to 75% of AED costs (typically $1,500–$10,000)
- Includes optional CPR/AED training
- Recent recipients: Bigfoot BMX, El Centro de la Raza, Snohomish & White Center Food Banks, and more!
Eligibility: 501(c)(3) or government entities, no consecutive-year funding, AEDs must be publicly accessible.
Interested? Apply now and help save lives.
Free Minor Home Repair Program for Income-Qualified Homeowners in White Center and Skyway
Habitat for Humanity’s Minor Home Repair Program is currently offering no-cost services to income-qualified home owners in White Center, Skyway, and Glendale. To apply, submit an intake form on their website or call their office at 206-866-7617. Note: the website says the minor repair program charges a $50 fee, but that fee is currently being waived in White Center and Skyway.
King County Best Starts for Kids Prenatal to Five Innovation Fund
King County’s Best Starts for Kids Prenatal to Five Innovation Fund aims to build up the power of Community-led Innovation to meet the emergent needs of families in King County. BSK is seeking community leaders to design, develop, test, and build the potential of innovative approaches (e.g. policies, programs, products, media, places, and services) centering the needs of families of color, low-income families, geographically isolated/rural families, LGBTQ+ families, and other families in-need.
The fund is open to community groups, nonprofit organizations, community-based organizations, tribes and tribal organizations, for-profit entities, and public or governmental agencies serving communities in King County.
$900,000 is available. Organizations may request up to $30,000 for all activities and up to $50,000 for implementing pilot programs.
For more details, please view the proposal document here, or if you have questions, please contact Carline Stephens at cstephens@kingcounty.gov.
Applications are due Friday, October 3 @ 2:00 p.m. Apply now at this link!
VSHSL Technical Assistance & Capacity Building: Support for Regional Human Services Coalitions
This RFP aims to support Regional Human Services Coalitions to spread information on grant opportunities to partner organizations, identify and connect partner organizations with capacity building and technical assistance, and build a conduit between the county and partner organizations to facilitate feedback and other opportunities to improve delivery and efficiency.
$125,216 in funding is available in 2025. Award amounts will depend on the number of successful applicants and the amounts they request.
For more details, please visit the grant website here, or if you have questions, please contact Esther Lee at eslee@kingcounty.gov.
Applications are due Wednesday, October 8 @ 2:00 p.m. Apply now at this link!
4Culture Curiosity Pass
Create engaging arts, cultural, and science educational experiences for King County public school students! This grant provides 2-year funding to cultural partners with youth-serving projects that expand learning opportunities in our K-12 public schools.
Groups and individual educators can use this grant for funding the creation of new cultural education programs, or the continuation or expansion of existing programs. Programs can include in-school activities (residencies, workshops, performances, lessons), before and after school programs, field trips, programs that take place in the summer and/or during school breaks, and professional development.
Applications are due Tuesday, October 21 @ 5:00 p.m. Applicants are required to complete an eligibility pre-screening; drafts for the pre-screening are due Wednesday, October 8 @ 5:00 p.m. Apply now at this link!
For more details, please visit the grant website here, or contact Bryan Wilson by email at bryan.wilson@4culture.org or by phone at 206-263-2655.
Behavioral Health and Recovery Youth Support Services RFP
This RFP seeks to fund organizations to design, develop, and implement outreach and programs that provide behavioral health and substance use support, engagement, and services to youth and young adults in King County.
This request is open to for-profit and nonprofit organizations, community-based organizations, tribes and tribal organizations, and public or governmental agencies serving communities in King County. Small nonprofits, people of color-led organizations, and other underserved organizations are encouraged to apply.
$1,000,000 in funding is available. Organizations may request up to $500,000 ($250,000 annually) for this two-year funding period.
For more details, please visit the grant website here, or contact Nikki Nguyen at nnguyen@kingcounty.gov.
Applications are due Monday, October 13 @ 2:00 p.m. Apply now at this link!
4Culture Cultural Support Services Projects
4Culture’s Cultural Support Services Projects program provides funding for organizations and Tribes that improve the quality of life and careers for King County cultural services workers by funding the continuation, creation, and expansion of various cultural support services in King County.
Cultural Support Services Projects grants are available for King County-based nonprofit arts, heritage, historic preservation, and science & technology organizations, as well as Tribal governments, public development authorities, and public agencies.
Awards range from $30,000 to $225,000 total ($10,000 to $75,000 per year for a three-year funding period).
Applications are due Wednesday, November 12 @ 5:00 p.m. Pre-screening applications are due Wednesday, October 29 @ 5:00 p.m. Applications opening soon!
For more details, please visit the grant website here, or contact Cassie Chinn by email at cassie.chinn@4culture.org or by phone at 206-263-8324.
WA State Department of Commerce Early Learning Facilities Expansion and Maintenance Grant
The purpose of this grant is to assist early learning and childcare providers to remodel, purchase, or construct early learning facilities and classrooms to create more early learning opportunities for children from income-qualified households.
Organizations that are eligible for this funding include early childhood education and assistance program providers, licensed early learning facilities, developers of housing and community facilities, local governments, tribes and tribal organizations, and public school districts.
Award amounts are variable. Grant awards of $250,000 and higher must be secured by real estate.
Applications are due Friday, October 31 @ 5:00 p.m. Apply now at this link!
For more details, please visit the grant website here, or contact Kristin Ramos at Kristin.Ramos@commerce.wa.gov.
Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce Game Ready Activation Grants
The Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce is offering Game Ready Activation Grants to support short-term, community-led activations across King County. These events are intended to promote public engagement, tourism, and small business visibility in anticipation of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Grants of $5,000, $10,000, and $20,000 are awarded on a rolling basis. Apply early — funding is limited and may be exhausted before the final deadline.
All of District 2 is eligible. You may check the chamber’s Small Business Activation Grant Eligible Areas map to confirm that your business or organization is eligible.
Applications are due Monday, November 10 @ 11:59 p.m. Apply now at this link!
For more details, please see the grant proposal documents, or contact Eric Glaze at SMCOC@InclusiveDataSolutions.com.
Home Repair Funds are Available for Residents in Unincorporated Skyway/West Hill and East Renton
As part of King County's Participatory Budgeting program, residents in Skyway/West Hill and East Renton voted to provide funds to repair homes for income-qualified owners in these areas. The funds—$300,000 for Skyway and $100,000 for East Renton—are available to cover roof repair or replacement; plumbing, electrical, or furnace repairs; painting, drywall, weatherization, home access modifications, and more.
Call 206-263-9095 to learn about the process, who is eligible, and how to get services. Let them know you heard about the repair program through Participatory Budgeting!
Landowners Invited to Help Address Homelessness in King County
The King County Regional Homelessness Authority is seeking landowners who are interested in being part of the solution to homelessness. Through the Land Bank Program’s Request for Information, KCRHA is collecting information on sites that could be used for tiny house villages, micro modular villages, sanctioned tent cities, safe lots for vehicles and RVs, and RV storage.
Although King County and the City of Seattle have several land-based shelter programs already in place, the demand for safe shelter far exceeds available space. This RFI invites property owners to help identify new sites and build a bank of viable options for when funding becomes available.
While this is not a direct funding opportunity, participants in this RFI may be eligible for future shelter development funding. There is no deadline to apply and the RFI will remain open for the foreseeable future.
To read the full RFI and learn more about the Land Bank Program, visit the latest KCRHA blog post.
Where to go During a Medical Emergency
When facing a medical emergency, knowing where to seek care can make all the difference. To help you navigate your options, check out this guide from Seattle Children’s Hospital to help you decide whether to go to the Emergency Room or Urgent Care based on your symptoms. Translations are available at the bottom of the page in Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Somali, and Vietnamese.
What To Do During a Disaster
September is National Preparedness Month, a good time to prepare for emergencies and disasters that may affect you. King County Emergency Management wants you to make it through!
During disasters, services, stores, and infrastructure (roads, bridges, buildings) may be unusable, unavailable, or unsafe. Four steps can help you prepare:
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Make a plan: An emergency plan should include meeting places in case you and loved ones become separated and alternate methods of communication if one or more methods fail. Include important contact information like phone numbers and emails addresses.
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Build a kit: Start with the essentials like nonperishable food and water, first aid, and cash in small bills. After that, consider your unique medical needs, the needs of your pets, and comfort items for children.
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Get involved: Communities recover faster when they're prepared. The first step is meeting your neighbors. If you know you’ll need extra help in an emergency, reach out to neighbors to let them know your needs. You can also take first aid classes or join a Community Emergency Response Team.
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Stay informed: Follow trusted news sources and look for emergency alerts from the National Weather Service. In a disaster or emergency, King County will update the Emergency News Blog with any information that's pertinent to the public. Finally, sign up for Alert King County to get emergency alerts.
Learn more about disaster preparedness at makeitthrough.org.
Help us Grow Our Reach!
My team and I send email updates like the one you’re currently reading every couple of weeks and we want to ensure we’re reaching as many of you in our community as possible. If you know anyone who would like to receive these updates, please be sure to send them over to our County Council website to sign up!
And as always, for more frequent and daily updates, you can check out our Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter pages. For the latest news, resources, and opportunities to engage with your King County government, follow me on the social media channels of your choice:
Facebook: facebook.com/Councilmember.Girmay
Twitter: @CMGirmayZahilay
Sincerely,
Councilmember Girmay Zahilay
King County Council
District 2
206-477-1002
girmay.zahilay@kingcounty.gov
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