DLS employee highlights local Skyway businesses

When you support local businesses in Skyway, you’re doing more than just shopping — you’re fueling the local economy, creating jobs, and helping build a stronger, more connected community. Every coffee, workout, or meal purchased in Skyway keeps dollars circulating where they matter most, right here at home. The Department of Local Services’ Basha Alexander dropped by some of those businesses recently. Some have been in the area for more than 30 years while others are relative newcomers to the Skyway area. View the original post on Instagram here.

Fall vibes and… toxic algae?

Crossposted from Headwaters Oh, October. The crisp breeze hinting at cooler days to come. The stunning displays of fall foliage. The shifting, softening sunlight. If you love this time of year, you’re not alone: toxic algae do, too, and typically peak in our lakes this month! Fortunately, the Science Section has a team of lake scientists who work with other King County agencies and local communities to help keep people and pets safe from toxic algae. Together we monitor, test, and respond to algae incidents so everyone can enjoy our lakes safely all year long. Read… Read More

Sign up now to donate blood on Oct. 29

Bloodworks Northwest will be at the Chinook Building, 401 5th Avenue in Seattle, on Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for blood donations. Book your appointment online here. Enter “King County” for the Sponsor Name. Appointments are required for the best possible donation experience. Same-day appointments are available at most locations. Photo identification is required. Need help booking an appointment? Call Bloodworks’ Donor Care Team at 1-800-398-7888 or email schedule@bloodworksnw.org. Bloodworks is your local source for blood. Your donation can save lives. Blood donors help support a lifesaving blood supply to 95%… Read More

Resources and services that support all people

Various groups and communities have been targeted by executive orders and policy directives recently issued by the federal administration.  Guided by our values and True North, King County will continue to provide county services and programs that support all communities and all people, including immigrants and refugees, women, transgender people, LGBTQ+ people, people of all racial identities, people with disabilities, and people of every religion, or of no religion.   We are steadfast in our commitment to our employees. There are many services and resources offered by King County and organizations in the community… Read More

Honoring heritage, inspiring the future: Celebrating Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month

Crossposted from Metro Matters From Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, we recognize Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of Latinx/Hispanic communities across our region and country. This observance also highlights the importance of representation, connection, and belonging; values we strive to integrate into our workplace and service every day at Metro. Read more.

Join the October 2025 SYT challenge!

The Switch Your Trips (SYT) promotion has officially begun! Leave the car at home during October and reap the benefits of trying other modes of transportation. Complete and log at least 10 trips using a qualifying travel option—that’s carpool, vanpool, bus, train, light rail, foot ferry, bicycle, walking, rolling, skateboarding, or a combination of all modes — and you will automatically be entered into a drawing for a chance to win some great prizes — including $1,500, $500, or one of many other great prizes. So, join your fellow King County employees… Read More

DLS and Director’s Office honor Orange Shirt Day

Crossposted from the Department of Local Services LinkedIn Recently, members of the Department of Local (DLS)  Services Road Services and Director’s Office teams wore orange shirts to collectively honor Orange Shirt Day, a grassroots commemoration of Indigenous children across North America who were taken from their homes to attend residential and boarding schools — many of whom did not return home — beginning in the 1800’s. The commemoration, which centers on the message that “Every Child Matters,” serves as an opportunity to create meaningful discussion about the effects of residential schools and… Read More

Executive Braddock’s budget adds 400,000 hours of bus service

Crossposted from Metro Matters On Sept. 23, King County Executive Shannon Braddock proposed a 2026-27 budget that adds more than 400,000 hours of Metro bus service and totals $4 billion across Metro’s operating and capital programs, including all of Metro’s modes of transit as well as safety, cleaning, and zero emissions, among other priorities. “We continue to invest in and grow transit,” Executive Braddock said. “We’re increasing bus and water taxi service, expanding Metro Flex, and improving Access Paratransit.” Read more.

How my life was changed by Long COVID: Experiences of people in King County

Crossposted from Public Health Insider We may want to think of COVID-19 as something in the past, but it’s still here and many people are living with the long-term outcomes that can range from unpleasant to utterly debilitating. Long COVID is a condition that can affect any of the organ systems after a COVID infection, and it can happen to people at any age, even if they were previously healthy. Studies have identified more than 200 symptoms that people with Long COVID have experienced, and some can make daily living a challenge…. Read More

“This program is saving lives”: How community partnerships expand naloxone access

Crossposted from Public Health Insider Overdose is the leading cause of preventable injury death in King County, but an easy-to-use nasal spray called naloxone is saving lives. When someone overdoses on opioids like fentanyl or prescription painkillers, their breathing slows or stops. Naloxone, sometimes also called Narcan, quickly reverses the effects of opioids, often restoring normal breathing in 2-3 minutes. Through strong community partnerships and innovative approaches, Public Health’s distribution of this life-saving tool to community-based organizations in 2025 is on pace to double that distributed in 2024. This work is funded… Read More