It’s hard to believe summer is already winding down. My boys head back to school this week, so our house is shifting back to school-day routines, homework, and earlier bedtimes. I know many families across South King County are making that same transition.
As we head into fall, there’s also a lot changing in how people get around South King County. New Link light rail stations are open, Metro has redesigned and expanded bus service, and Sound Transit is making decisions that will shape our transportation system for years to come.
This spring, more than 80 residents joined me for a South King County Sound Transit Town Hall in Des Moines. One thing I heard clearly was that residents want opportunities to hear directly from the agencies making transportation decisions and ask their own questions.
So, we are doing it again.
On September 26 from 10–11:30 a.m. at Kent City Hall, I’ll host a South King County Transportation Forum: Kent with Mayor Dana Ralph, Metro General Manager Michelle Allison, and representatives from Sound Transit and Kent Public Works. We’ll cover the transit changes already underway, what’s coming next, and take questions directly from residents.
Also this month:
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Metro expanded bus service across South King County, with new routes, more frequent service, and better connections to Link.
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Sound Transit advanced its fare gate pilot at up to 14 light rail stations.
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Proposed solid waste rates moved closer to a final vote, including an 8.5% increase in disposal fees.
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King County Executive proposed changes to our regional homelessness system, including returning most locally funded service contracts to the County and City.
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Community Resources: Applications will be opening for 2027 District 5 grants for organizations serving our six cities in early September. Applications will be due in early October, with information on how to apply below.
As always, thank you for the opportunity to serve you.
 Steffanie Fain
King County Councilmember | District 5
steffanie.fain@kingcounty.gov
206-477-1005
Kingcounty.gov/fain
On August 29, Metro expanded South King County service by 28%, including new Routes 164 and 166, more frequent service on Routes 156 and 168, expanded weekend service, and overnight RapidRide A Line service. The changes also provide new connections to the Kent/Des Moines, Star Lake, and Federal Way Link stations.
Before your next trip, check whether your route, stop, or transfer has changed. Click here for more information.
Sound Transit Fare Gate Pilot
This month, I voted to advance the first phase of Sound Transit’s fare gate pilot program at up to 14 light rail stations. This allows design and planning to move forward; construction and final station selection will require additional Board action. Construction is currently expected to begin around 2029.
Current estimates project the gates could pay for themselves within approximately two to five years while improving fare compliance and giving the agency another tool to address safety.
I also supported requirements for clear success measures and outreach around youth fares and ORCA LIFT. Before construction moves forward, I’ll continue requesting updated information on station locations, costs and expected returns, accessibility, and how riders will be prepared for the change.
King County Regional Homelessness Authority
Last week, the Council received an update from Executive Zahilay’s team on plans to transition most locally funded homelessness service contracts from KCRHA back to King County and Seattle. Watch the meeting here.
As that transition moves forward, my priorities are clear: stronger financial controls and accountability, continued regional coordination, and ensuring South King County helps shape where services are located, how funding is distributed, and how the regional system is designed.
Do you have thoughts to share about homelessness response in your neighborhood or city? Share them by emailing district5.kingcountycouncil@kingcounty.gov.
Parks Levy Grant Advisory Committee
The Council is also considering the Executive’s proposal to change the committee that helps guide millions of dollars in Parks Levy grants. I plan to propose requirements for Council oversight, regular reporting, geographic representation, and clear conflict-of-interest rules so grant decisions are transparent and communities across King County are fairly represented.
Proposed Solid Waste Disposal Fee Increase
As I shared last month, the Council is considering an 8.5% increase in King County solid waste disposal fees, expected to add about $0.73 per month to the average residential garbage bill. The proposal advanced from committee this month and is expected to come before the full Council in September.
The Solid Waste Division faces higher operating costs, environmental requirements, and major capital investments. But residents are also facing higher costs for housing, utilities, transportation, and other necessities. For that reason, I plan to vote no.
Regardless of the final vote, ratepayers deserve to know where additional revenue is going and what is being done to control future costs. I have proposed a motion requiring the division to report on how new revenue is spent, its debt and financial performance, cost-control efforts, and affordability programs before the Council considers the next rate increase in 2027.
How are rising costs affecting your household? Share your thoughts by emailing district5.kingcountycouncil@kingcounty.gov.
New Support for Immigrant and Refugee Families in South King County
King County is investing $900,000 in the new South King County Immigrant and Refugee Futures Fund to support families affected by increased federal immigration enforcement. The County funding comes through existing Best Starts for Kids initiatives in Public Health rather than a new appropriation. The Renton Regional Community Foundation will provide at least an additional $250,000 in private matching funds.
The fund will support local organizations providing basic-needs assistance, rapid-response and safety training, mental health support, and other services. Focusing the funding in South King County allows organizations already serving these communities to respond directly to what families are experiencing.
Here are a few snapshots from the month:
King County Library System Distribution Center in Renton
I joined the King County Library System and the City of Renton to open the new KCLS distribution center, which will move materials between libraries more quickly while bringing library jobs to Renton.
I stopped by Normandy Park's National Night Out while my team joined events in Kent, Renton, and Tukwila to connect with residents and local public-safety partners.
India’s 80th Independence Day
I joined Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer at the Consulate General of India in Seattle to recognize India's 80th Independence Day and learn more about the Consulate's expanded services and growing ties between India and our region.
Lower Green River Flood Tour.
I toured flood-control infrastructure in Kent, Renton, and Tukwila to learn more about planned improvements and how we can better protect homes, businesses, farms, and transportation from future flooding.
Rural Transportation Advocacy.
I joined Metro and community partners at the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe’s Community Center to discuss how South King County residents can most effectively advocate for better streets, trails, and transit, particularly in communities where transportation options remain limited.
Could You Qualify for Lower Property Taxes?
Property tax assessment notices are arriving in mailboxes, making this a good time to check whether you qualify for a senior, veteran, or disability exemption or deferral. Recent changes to income limits mean some homeowners who did not qualify previously may now be eligible.
Learn more and check your eligibility:
My office is happy to help connect residents with the King County Assessor's Office and the resources needed to apply.
2027 District 5 Grant Applications Are Opening
Does your organization serve residents in Kent, Renton, Tukwila, SeaTac, Des Moines, or Normandy Park?
Beginning in early September, my office will be accepting applications for 2027 Council grants supporting community organizations, veterans, youth recreation, food security, climate resilience, and other local needs.
Check out our social media and website for updates or save the application link for when it opens.
Applications will be due in early October.
Learn more and apply here.
Learn About 24/7 Crisis Services in South King County
On September 11, King County is hosting a community lunch and learn in Renton for residents to learn about 24/7 crisis services that are available today and how to access help when someone is experiencing a behavioral health or substance use crisis.
The event will also be an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about crisis care in South King County. Language and accessibility accommodations are available upon request.
Thursday, September 11 | Noon–1:30 p.m.
Puget Sound Educational Service District
800 Oakesdale Ave SW, Renton
Whether you have a question, concern, or idea, I want to hear from you. You can also follow along on Facebook and Instagram for more frequent updates from around District 5
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