Executive Constantine to highlight anti-racism and criminal legal system transformation in upcoming 2021-2022 King County budget
Today at 1:30 p.m., King County Executive Dow Constantine and other County leaders will outline key investments and reinventions in the criminal legal system, as well as funding priorities for anti-racism–pro-equity work that will be included in the 2021-2022 Proposed Budget to be transmitted to the King County Council. WHEN: Today, Wednesday, Sept. 16, at 1:30 p.m. WHERE: Livestreamed on Executive Constantine’s Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ExecutiveConstantine/
Why flu vaccine is more important during COVID-19
Crossposted from Public Health Insider Although we can’t predict exactly what will happen this fall and winter, flu will likely arrive while COVID-19 is still circulating, and that makes it even more important to get a flu vaccination. We asked Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County, to explain why. Why is it particularly important to get a flu vaccine this season? Jeff Duchin: The prospect of our annual flu outbreak compounding COVID-19 during this fall and winter’s “respiratory virus” season is worrisome. Hospitals, clinics, and doctors’ offices are likely… Read More
Mental Health resources for Black and Brown employees
The combined impact of police violence, a pandemic disproportionately affecting People of Color, and centuries of systemic racism place undue stress on Black and Brown communities. Balanced You stands with Black Lives Matter and recognizes the resiliency and strength that lies within the Black and Brown communities. Balanced You also recognizes that, because you and your community are sacred, caring for your well-being is an act of resistance. In the event that you are seeking additional support, we have partnered with the King County Black/African Affinity Group and Dr. Gloria Ngezaho, Workforce Equity… Read More
Guidance for employees working in smoky conditions
Crossposted from Balanced You The past week has been difficult with wildfires threatening our state and plumes of smoke from wildfires in Oregon and California rendering Washington’s air unhealthy. Wildfire smoke in our region will continue today, and will likely begin to dissipate toward the end of the week . Because wildfire smoke can cause a range of health problems, including chest pain, coughing, fast heartbeat, headaches, and asthma attacks. With our current unhealthy air conditions, it’s recommended that you limit your time outdoors; however, some people need to be outdoors for their… Read More
King County Celebrates Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month, September 15 – October 15, 2020
National Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month is observed from Sept. 15 – Oct. 15 in the United States, Canada, and Latin America. This month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the long, important presence and contributions of Hispanic and Latino and Latina (Latinx) Americans. You are invited to participate in the many events hosted throughout the month by the King County Latinx Affinity Group (KCLx), Sound Transit Latinx in Transportation (LiT), and the Seattle Department of Transportation’s Latinx Caucus. The first event is a Kickoff for Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month: A Celebration by KCLx hosted on Wednesday, Sept. 16, from noon to 1… Read More
Working in smoky conditions
Dear employee, Wildfire smoke in our region will continue today, and will slowly begin to dissipate as we move into midweek. Wildfire smoke can cause a range of health problems, including chest pain, coughing, fast heartbeat, headaches, and asthma attacks. Some people need to be outdoors for their work or other responsibilities. With our current unhealthy air conditions, it’s recommended that you limit your time outdoors. If you are concerned about doing field work in these conditions, please consider these tips and guidance: Talk to your supervisor about possible options to reduce the amount… Read More
Alongside the ongoing transmission of COVID-19, common colds are on the rise in Seattle and King County
Crossposted from Public Health Insider In the fall of 2018, the Seattle Flu Study (SFS) began monitoring respiratory diseases in the Seattle metro area. At the beginning of 2020, SFS partnered with Public Health – Seattle & King County to launch the greater Seattle Coronavirus Assessment Network (SCAN) to track and monitor COVID-19. The combined SFS and SCAN data offer us a window into the effects of COVID-19 mitigation efforts—not only on the spread of COVID-19, but also on the transmission of other respiratory viruses. The findings also remind us of the importance… Read More
Kicking Off Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month en Línea virtual event, September 16
National Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month takes place Sept. 15-Oct. 15. In celebration of a diverse Latinx history, vibrant culture and innumerable achievements, the King County Latinx Affinity Group (KCLx) invites employees to join this virtual kick-off event. Come together with the King County familia and learn about the goals of KCLx and our work to advance equity and social justice in the community, enjoy a meet–and–greet with the KCLx Leadership Team, and preview an exciting lineup of upcoming Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month events. This event will be on Wednesday, Sept. 16 from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom, and is open to all King County employees. Click… Read More
When should I expect my ballot? Key dates to making your vote count
Crossposted from Election Connection As the countdown clocks continue to tick down the days between now and Nov. 3, we’re getting lots of questions about what to expect when and how to make sure you hit all the important deadlines to make sure your vote counts. Here are some key dates to put in your calendar to make sure that you’re ready to vote. Sept. 18 – King County mails out ballots to our service and overseas voters on this day, beating that 45-day requirement set out in federal law. Sending ballots early to those overseas… Read More
Metro and regional transit agencies sign onto APTA health and safety program
Crossposted from Metro Matters Six Puget Sound area transit agencies have joined agencies across the nation to commit to industry best practices for safe transportation during the COVID-19 crisis. Community Transit, Everett Transit, King County Metro, Kitsap Transit, Pierce Transit and Sound Transit have all committed to a health and safety program developed by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) in response to public concerns about riding transit during the pandemic. Read more.
Employee News 