|
Focus on values: We lead the way
“We lead the way” is an attitude that we bring to our work, and one of our eight Executive Branch values. Everything that we accomplish is due to your hard work and innovative thinking, and as an organization, we are creating a culture where you feel empowered to push for new and better ways of doing things.
As we focus on our “We lead the way” value this month, please take a moment to watch the “We lead the way” video. Your supervisor will make time to discuss what this value means for your team and how it applies to your work.
Update on novel coronavirus
On Friday, the federal government declared the new (novel) coronavirus a public health emergency in the U.S. and announced a series of restrictions on U.S. citizens and foreign nationals entering the U.S. after trips to China, which took effect Sunday at 2 p.m. PST.
While government officials stress that the risk to the general U.S. public continues to be low at this time due to the small number of cases in the United States, the global situation continues to change rapidly. Public health officials here and around the world continue to be vigilant. Read more.
|
Redmond Youth Court participants practice restorative justice
By Troy Brown, Communication Manager, King County District Court
Editor’s note: This article only uses first names to protect the privacy of minors.
Each time 16-year-old “Mary” (not her real name) steps behind the wheel, she likely will be a safer driver thanks to lessons she learned at her Redmond Youth Court hearing.
Redmond Youth Court is a student-led organization that works with King County District Court to hear real cases of traffic citations issued to 16- and 17-year olds by Redmond Police within the City of Redmond, offering them an alternative to the traditional justice system. The cases are handled by youth “attorneys,” a youth “judge” and a youth jury, making it the ultimate “jury of your peers” for teenagers. Read more.
|
Plan for more time for security screening at courthouse
Starting Wednesday, Feb. 5, security screening at the King County Courthouse will take longer. New security equipment has been set to a sensitivity level that ensures a more thorough screening process. Items such as loose change, keys, underwire in bras and shoe shanks may require secondary screening such as wanding. To speed up the process, please remove all metals from pockets.
As a side note, beginning this Friday, Feb. 7, the Fourth Avenue entrance will open from 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., and noon to 2 p.m.
|
Four things you need to know for the Census
Every 10 years in the United States, a national census takes place, and King County is partnering with community-based organizations, philanthropies, other governments, and stakeholders across the region to support and promote a fair and accurate 2020 Census.
Starting March 12, people will receive letters in the mail with instructions on how to complete the 2020 Census. Until July 31, you can complete the census online, by mail, or over the phone. The results inform how funding is distributed for things like our schools, affordable housing, hospitals, and public transportation for the next decade. The count also determines how many representatives we’ll have in Congress. Read more.
|
Recipients of the 2019-2020 ESJ Opportunity Fund announced
This year, 33 applications were received totaling more than $185,000 in requests, with a 2019-2020 ESJ Opportunity Fund budget of $75,000. This was a highly competitive process that highlights the commitment across the County to equity and social justice work, not only at the department and agency level but also of our employees as individuals.
2020 Worksite Fund application coming soon
The Balanced You Worksite Fund is back for its third year. Beginning in mid-February, employees will have the opportunity to learn more about the project and apply. Previous applicants are also encouraged to re-apply. So, start connecting with colleagues and brainstorming ways you’d like to create positive change in your workplace this year.
Visit the Balanced You blog for more information and a slide show of 2019 Worksite Fund projects.
|
King County employee Metro commuter van pilot: four-month update
In October 2019, the Employee Transportation Program (ETP) launched a one-year pilot program offering 100% Metro Vanpool and Vanshare benefits to all King County employees. Since the launch, employees formed eight new vanpools and one vanshare. This pilot is an effort to decrease the drive-alone rate to King County worksites not served well by transit as well as provide all employees with an additional ORCA Passport fare-free mode to get to and from work. If the pilot program’s success continues through September, ETP plans to request that this benefit be a permanent transportation benefit for all King County employees. Read more.
|
Employee discounts to Seattle Symphony for February performances
King County employees are welcome to take advantage of discounts for upcoming Seattle Symphony performances. Use code VIOLIN20 to save 15% on Orchestra Level Seats on performances of Dvořák Symphony No. 8 on Thursday, Feb. 6 and Saturday, 8, and Mozart Concerto for Two Pianos on Thursday, Feb. 27, Friday, Feb. 28, and Saturday, Feb. 29. Employees can also use code LOVE30 for $30 Orchestra Level Seats for The Best of Quincy Jones performances on Friday, Feb. 14, Saturday, Feb. 15, and Sunday, Feb. 16. Visit www.seattlesymphony.org to purchase tickets and for more information.
|
Pet of the Week: Trap
Hi! My name is Trap and I am available for adoption. My personality color is RED. I am a spirited dog with a fun-loving personality! I am still working on my manners, so I would do best with a family who is willing to work with me and help me become the best dog I can be!
|
Featured Job: Facilities Electrician I
Salary: $38.32 - $42.13 Hourly
Job Type: Career Service, Full Time, 40 hrs/week
Department: DES - Executive Services
Division: FMD - Facilities Mgmt
Closing: 2/20/2020 11:59 PM Pacific
KC Headlines
Public Health Insider: The 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak and pandemic preparedness
Cultivating Connections: City Inside/Out: Regional Response to Homelessness
DES Express: Expanded internship program takes flight
|
