DAJD’s first-ever K-9 team hits the ground sniffing
By Noah Haglund, Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention Corrections Officer Raymond Gentz and his K-9 partner Koda smiled for the cameras on a bright, summery morning in early June. The newly minted duo from King County was one of a half-dozen handler-dog teams celebrating the completion of a rigorous course in drug detection. They trained for six weeks with the State Department of Corrections, mostly in Spokane. Graduation took place at the DOC headquarters in Tumwater. Now, Gentz and Koda form the first-ever K-9 team at the Department of Adult and… Read More
KCSO participates in Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run
Crossposted from the King County Sheriff’s Office employee newsletter Recently, the King County Sheriff’s Office teamed up with Seattle Police to take part in the Special Olympics Washington Law Enforcement Torch Run, carrying the Flame of Hope along the Seattle waterfront. This annual tradition brings law enforcement agencies together across the country to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics programs, supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities. This annual event is more than just a run—it’s a show of unity, inclusion, and the kind of community support that goes far beyond public safety…. Read More
King County announces applications are now open for Executive’s Small Business Awards
On July 3, King County Executive Shannon Braddock announced that applications for the Executive’s Small Business Awards are now open. There are eight Small Business of the Year award categories: Overall Small Business, Minority-Owned, Woman-Owned, Exporting, Green/Sustainable, Workforce Development, Rural, and Creative Economy. “Small businesses are the backbone of our neighborhoods, providing jobs, driving innovation, and reflecting the rich diversity of our region,” said Executive Braddock. “It’s an honor to celebrate the entrepreneurs whose vision and determination power King County’s economy and strengthen our communities.” To be eligible, businesses must be located within King… Read More
Executive Braddock announces winners of the 2025 Green Globe Awards, King County’s highest honor for environmental stewardship
King County Executive Shannon Braddock today announced the winners of the 2025 Green Globe Awards, King County’s highest honor for environmental stewardship. The Environmental Catalyst award went to Seattle Times environmental reporter and award-winning author Lynda Mapes. Other winners included an effective hunger relief program that was launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, a regional bicycle donation hub, an organization that is advancing equitable access to outdoor experiences, and a nonprofit that is developing transit-friendly, sustainable homes that will be permanently affordable. Read more.
Our top picks of King County trails to recharge & reconnect
Crossposted from Public Health Insider By Public Health’s Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) Team Beyond scenic views and fresh air, the trails of King County offer something deeper—a chance to recharge mentally, physically, and even emotionally. And there’s no better time than the gorgeous Puget Sound summer to embrace the outdoors! Here are some of our favorite ways to hike, run, or simply wander among the trees for our own well-being: South Tiger Mountain, Middle Fork Snoqualmie, and Twin Falls: “For me, trail running is more than fitness—it’s a mental reset and a way… Read More
Resource Access Fair District 6: Connect with VSHSL providers in your community, July 19
Crossposted from Cultivating Connections Are you interested in learning more about the resources and services available in your community? The Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy (VSHSL) Resource Access Team is hosting a series of Resource Access Fairs across King County. Connect with local organizations and services funded through the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy, and enjoy a day of food, refreshments, and community connections. Read more.
What to know before taking transit to events on July 4!
Crossposted from Metro Matters Fireworks, parades, picnics and festivals on July Fourth — there’s so much going on! Here’s some things to know before stepping onto transit on July 4 to get to your celebration. King County Metro buses are operating on Sunday schedules on July 4 and there are reroutes planned in several areas due to events, such as parades and local festivals in Bellevue, Bothell, Burien, Issaquah, Kent, Kirkland, West Seattle and downtown Seattle. Please check our service advisories for your route before traveling. Seattle Streetcar The First Hill Line will operate regular service July… Read More
July 4 closures and notices
We wish all of our employees, their families, and the King County community a safe and wonderful Fourth of July. A few closures and notices will be in effect for the holiday: King County government offices will be closed to observe Independence Day on Friday, July 4. All offices will be back on schedule Monday, July 7. On July 4, most Metro Transit buses will operate on Sunday schedules with extra late-night services. If you have questions about your holiday schedule, please speak to your supervisor. Have a safe and healthy holiday.
King County and City of Seattle to increase Metro’s safety and security presence
Crossposted from Metro Matters King County Executive Shannon Braddock’s proposed 2025 supplemental budget includes $26.1 million in safety and security investments for King County Metro. In partnership, the City of Seattle has committed more than $5 million in voter-approved funding to support Metro’s 2025 safety and security efforts. To support safe, vibrant, and healthy communities where everyone can thrive, King County Executive Shannon Braddock’s proposed 2025 supplemental budget, with funding support from the City of Seattle, will strengthen both transit safety and security. Read more.
The Fourth of July: A pet’s least-favorite holiday
Crossposted from Tails from RASKC Did you know? About half of all pets that go missing every year are lost around the Fourth of July. It’s a scary statistic, but fortunately there are steps you can take to help keep your dog, cat, or other animals safe from the bang, boom, and pop of fireworks. Before the fireworks Exercise your pet in the daytime before fireworks begin. That can help tire them out so they sleep through the peak of the noise. Check your pet’s license, ID tag, and/or microchip, and make sure… Read More
Employee News 