|
King County Executive
Low-interest loan applications are now open for King County residents and businesses impacted by historic flooding
Disaster assistance through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is available to help King County residents and businesses recover from the December 2025 winter storm.
Who should apply:
- Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may also apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.
- Eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations including faith-based organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster may apply to the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. These loans are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or organization did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that were not paid due to the disaster.
Deadlines to apply:
• April 27, 2026, for property damage
• November 24, 2026, for economic injury
For more information and to apply online, visit SBA.gov/disaster.
Applicants can also receive application assistance at one of two SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Centers:
Auburn Library, 1102 Auburn Way S (starting Thursday, February 26)
Fall City Library, 33415 SE 42nd Place (starting Monday, March 2)
Outreach center operating hours at both libraries:
Mondays—10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesdays—12 to 8 p.m.
Wednesdays—12 to 8 p.m.
Thursdays—10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Fridays—10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturdays—11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Information that may be needed when applying for a loan:
• Name and address of the damaged property
• Contact information for all applicants and/or owners
• Social Security numbers of all applicants
• Insurance policy details, including the agent or carrier contact information and any claims that have been filed
• Lease agreement information for renters
“Recovering from a disaster of this scale takes local, state, and federal partners working together to unlock resources and support. Through these loans, help is available right now,” said King County Executive Girmay Zahilay. “These SBA loans can be a critical bridge for individuals and families repairing what was damaged and for our small businesses working to stay open and move forward. We encourage anyone impacted to apply and take advantage of these resources.”
Applicants can call the SBA Customer Service Center at 800–659–2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For people who are deaf or hard of hearing or who have a speech disability, please dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services.
See the SBA’s media release for more information.
Natural Resources and Parks
Free weekend storm debris disposal extended through March 22 at three sites
There will be no charge for flood debris from the December storm brought by residents* to the following stations on Saturdays or Sundays through March 22
* Free disposal is only for self-haul customers. Third-party haulers are excluded from the free disposal policy and must pay standard fees.
For a full list of accepted items at each station, see this Guide to King County Recycling and Transfer Facilities.
Find options for items that are not accepted at King County facilities
Find information and wait times for all stations
Local Services
Help King County improve its website for businesses in unincorporated areas
The King County Department of Local Services is inviting existing business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in doing business in unincorporated King County to check out its economic development website and provide feedback.
The site, which lists available resources and information, was set up last year. The county is now teaming up with the University of Washington to help assess its usefulness. That process includes a survey that takes 5 to 10 minutes to fill out. Please consider visiting the site (if you haven't already) and then taking the survey and sharing it with your friends and neighbors.
|
Infrastructure for the future: Fall City’s septic upgrade supports local businesses
Construction activity behind local businesses in Fall City is a sign of progress on a major infrastructure upgrade: the long-awaited on-site community septic system for the Fall City business district.
Since November crews have installed and connected 40 septic tanks to the new underground treatment plant. The project remains on schedule for completion this summer, a project that will support existing businesses and allow them to fully use their buildings to serve the community.
Sarah Keiffer (shown here), founder and owner of the hair salon Studio 202, shared what it was like when septic issues were a constant concern for the business district.
“Some businesses had to pump their septic systems weekly,” she recalled. Others “had to close because their systems simply failed or they couldn't meet code.” Today, she said, the new system means peace of mind. “Yes, there will be an added cost, but it's worth it,” she said.
Read more on the King County Local blog or see details about the project on the King County website
|
County to seek public comments on two subarea plans
Planners will soon ask for public input on documents that will inform the future of two unincorporated King County communities—Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River and Fairwood.
King County subarea plans set a 20-year vision for how a community will grow and change. They help guide decisions about land use, transportation, parks, environmental protection, and other local investments.
What's happening now?
Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River—Planners are putting the final touches on the first ("preliminary") draft of the subarea plan for this rural area. The document will be available for public review and comment in early April. Those comments will be incorporated into a second version of the plan that will be available later this year.
Fairwood—The county recently wrapped up its first phase of outreach to this urban community. They gathered hundreds of comments from residents through an in-person open house, online surveys, and interviews. That input is helping to shape the draft Fairwood Subarea Plan, which planners expect to release for public review this summer.
Community voices are playing a key role in both plans. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to learn more and get involved, and visit the county's subarea planning page to learn more.
Fairwood—The county recently wrapped up its first phase of outreach to this urban community. They gathered hundreds of comments from residents through an in-person open house, online surveys, and interviews. That input is helping to shape the draft Fairwood Subarea Plan, which planners expect to release for public review this summer.
Community voices are playing a key role in both plans. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to learn more and get involved, and visit the county's subarea planning website to learn more.
Photo: Community members in Fairwood weigh in on their community's future at a public meeting about the Fairwood Subarea Plan.
|
Road Services
Brighter, safer stop signs are coming to King County roads
Photo: This stop sign at Vashon Highway SW and SW Burton Road on Vashon Island was upgraded to a solar powered LED Sign in December 2025.
King County Road Services is making roads in unincorporated King County safer by replacing old stop signs at 17 intersections with new LED signs. These signs are easier to see, especially at night or in bad weather. Construction for this project began in November 2025, and today most of the new signs are already in place.
Many of these LED signs use solar power, which saves energy and lowers costs. Some signs are still being switched to solar this spring. This upgrade is part of King County’s plan to improve safety and protect the environment.
Learn more about this project on the King County website.
Permits
► Comments will be accepted through March 4 on a proposed ordinance related to water and sewer systems and plans. Documents related to the proposed ordinance, including ways to comment and a plain-language summary of the ordinance, are available on the King County website.
Transportation
Share your transportation story and help shape a more inclusive King County at March 14 workshop
The Snoqualmie Valley Mobility Coalition and Transportation Choices Coalition will present a second Rural Transportation Advocacy 101 workshop on Saturday, March 14 at the North Bend City Hall (920 SE Cedar Falls Way).
The workshop is for Snoqualmie Valley residents, business owners, employees, and anyone else who would like to participate in advocating for transportation solutions that match the unique needs of this area's cities and towns.
A panel of transportation and advocacy experts will guide participants through the transportation planning process and share effective methods of advocacy. Learn more and register
Photo: passengers board a Snoqualmie Valley Shuttle
Emergency preparedness
Do you know what a seiche is?
Remember the rare tsunami advisory that was issued in Washington last July? It was triggered by an 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Russia. We didn’t see any dangerous impacts in Washington, but it was a reminder that tsunamis and seiches can happen here. March is Tsunami and Seiche Awareness Month in King County—a good time to learn more about these events.
Strong earthquakes in Washington can trigger seiches, which are standing waves in enclosed bodies of water, including lakes and harbors. Picture water sloshing back and forth in a bathtub, but on a much larger scale. Contrast this with a tsunami, a series of powerful ocean waves triggered by an earthquake.
Find out ahead of time what emergency alerts about tsunamis mean and what to do if you get one. Visit the National Weather Service website to learn the difference between a Tsunami Warning, Watch, Advisory, and Information Statement. You can also learn more about this and other hazards that could affect us in King County by visiting the county's hazards website.
|
Treasury
Property tax details are available online now
Property owners in King County can go online now to view their 2026 property tax details. They can also pay their taxes, look up their property information, and sign up for email or text reminders on the county's website.
Hard copies of property tax statements were mailed in mid-February to those who pay their property taxes themselves instead of through a mortgage lender. A paper statement is not required to pay property taxes.
First-half payments are due on April 30. Payments can be made online, by mail, and by drop box. Visit the King County property tax website for details.
Customer service representatives are also available to assist Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can call King County Treasury Operations at 206-263-2890 or send email to propertytax.customerservice@kingcounty.gov.
Information on tax exemption and deferral programs for seniors, people with disabilities, or other qualifying conditions is available from the King County Assessor's Office at TaxRelief.kingcounty.gov, by emailing exemptions.assessments@kingcounty.gov, or calling 206-296-3920.
Risk management
How to avoid becoming the victim of a scam
King County Risk Management’s Customer Service Team has recently received a slew of inquiries about a potential scam received as text messages. The messages appear to come from the Washington State Department of Licensing or King County District Court, and they claim that recipients must appear in court the next day for unpaid vehicle toll violations, and urge them to use a “Pay Now” link to avoid cancellation of their driver’s license.
These messages are fraudulent. Do not click on any links or respond to the sender.
|
Here are some tips to avoid being taken in
• Scammers like to create a false sense of urgency. Pause before responding.
• Don’t engage until you can verify the authenticity of the person or organization.
• Block and report any scam activity.
If you have questions or need help, contact the King County Customer Service team:
• Phone: 206-296-0100
• SMS/Text: 206-208-6293
Residents can also verify outstanding tickets directly with King County District Court:
• Phone: 206-205-9200
• Email: webmaster@kingcounty.gov
• Case access
See more scam alerts on the King County website.
Animal services
Animal Services is overflowing with dogs who are looking for love
Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) continues to operate with limited services after the December storms, and their dogs are experiencing significant overcrowding. Now more than ever, these dogs need loving homes, and RASKC needs you.
RASKC welcomes all adopters. They aim to find a great match for every customer by providing as much information as they can about each animal’s personality and needs. Dogs and other available animals can be viewed online at kingcounty.gov/AdoptAPet. If you’re hoping to adopt a kitten or cat, please consider the foster adoption process.
If you'd like to meet your potential new best friend in person, walk-in hours at the Pet Adoption Center in Kent (21615 64th Avenue S) are noon to 5 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 4 p.m. on weekends.
|
Contracting with King County
Opportunities ahead! Learn how to do business with King County at a free online supplier orientation session
Whether you're new to public contracting or want to sharpen your competitive edge, the county offers free online orientation sessions to give you insight into its procurement processes—plus an opportunity to ask questions.
Upcoming sessions are tailored to specific areas of interest, so you can register for the ones that fit your business goals. Visit the county's website to learn more.
• Construction Contractor Orientation
Thursday, March 19, 10 a.m. to noon
Meet representatives from King County's contract specialist team and learn about the county's contracting process, including how to effectively market your firm to county agencies. Will also cover tips for submitting successful bids and proposals. Register for this session
• Goods, Services, and Technology Orientation
Thursday, April 16, 10 a.m. to noon
Learn about the contracting process, get tips on submitting successful bids, and gain insight on how to market your goods and services to King County agencies. This is also a chance to meet representatives from the county's small business certification and contract specialist teams. Register for this session
Reminder
► Forest Stewardship Course for King County property owners – Wednesday evenings starting April 8 in Enumclaw. Learn everything you need to know about caring for your wooded property, including how to write your own personalized forest stewardship plan that could help otherwise qualifying landowners save money on property taxes through King County's PBRS program. Participants will receive a site visit to their property by a professional forester. Cost: $190. Sponsored by Washington State University Extension, King Conservation District, and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Space is limited and pre-registration required. Details and registration
|
:: Community Alliance to Reach Out and Engage
Lord of Life Lutheran Church
12819 160th Avenue SE, Renton
See blog for the latest information and to confirm meetings.
:: Enumclaw Plateau Community Association
Second Tuesdays at 6 p.m.
Muckleshoot Library (King County Library branch)
39917 Auburn Enumclaw Road SE, Auburn
Monthly board meetings are open to the public, and often feature guest speakers in addition to community reports and information from a variety of local organizations. For more information send email to EPCA.wa@gmail.com.
:: Fall City Community Association
First Tuesdays – Hybrid meeting (virtual and in-person, 7-8:30 p.m.)
Fall City Fire Department meeting room
4301 334th Place SE, Fall City
The Fall City Community Association promotes building of community, proactively communicates on local issues, and takes action on selected issues that affect the Fall City community. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month, and are open to the public. For more information, visit fallcity.org or email send email.
:: Four Creeks Unincorporated Area Council
Second Tuesdays – Virtual meeting via Zoom
Visit the website for the latest information and to confirm meeting dates and locations.
:: Greater Maple Valley Unincorporated Area Council
Monday, March 9, 7-9:30 p.m. – in person or via Zoom
Maple Valley Fire Station
22225 SE 231st Street (across from King County Sheriff’s Precinct #3)
All monthly meetings are hybrid—both in-person and on Zoom. As the meeting date approaches, see the website (gmvuac.org) for meeting agendas and Zoom information.
:: Green Valley/Lake Holm Association
The Green Valley/Lake Holm Association advocates for those who live in unincorporated southeast King County. Primary goals are to maintain the community’s unique historic, agricultural, and rural character; protect the environment; and sustain quality of life in the area. They engage regularly with local government agencies to address concerns and influence policies on topics of mutual interest, such as growth and development, transportation, public safety, and flood control. Stay connected by visiting their Facebook page.
:: North Highline Unincorporated Area Council
Monthly board meetings are open to the public and often feature guest speakers in addition to community reports and information from local organizations. For more information, email Barbara Dobkin.
:: Skyway Coalition
See the coalition's website.
:: Upper Bear Creek Community Council
For information about the council, email Patricia Gustafson or visit the Facebook page and/or website.
:: Vashon-Maury Community Council
Meetings are open to all and are held on the third Thursday of each month, both online and in-person. Topics include affordable housing, ferries, election candidates, transportation, aviation noise, and more. The council sets up committees and passes resolutions to King County and other organizations as needed. Voting membership is free and open to residents 18 and older. To learn more, visit the website.
:: West Hill Community Association
Meetings are in person or via Zoom
Skyway Fire District 20 Admin Building
12424 76th Avenue S, Seattle
Monthly board meetings are open to the public, and often feature guest speakers in addition to community reports and information from a variety of local organizations. For more information, send email or visit the website.
|
