A message following the July 26 tragedy at Seattle Center from Executive Zahilay
Team, Like many of you, I am heartbroken by the shooting at Seattle Center during the Bite of Seattle Sunday night. As someone who grew up in this community, I know what the Bite means to our communities. The Bite has long been one of Seattle’s signature summer traditions, bringing people together to enjoy time with family and friends. To see violence at a place that brings so many people together is heartbreaking and unacceptable. My heart continues to be with the victims and their loved ones, those who were senselessly injured, Seattle Center employees and vendors, and… Read More
Plan to be heard
Do you have a vote plan? Research shows that voters who make a plan to vote are more likely to follow through and make their voices heard. Take a moment today to consider things like where you’ll vote, what pen you’ll use (pro tip: any color is fine!), and what resources you’ll use to research your choices. Visit kce.wiki/VotePlan to download a Vote Plan template. If your Vote Plan includes using a drop box, you’ll be glad to know there are now more than 90 official ballot drop boxes around the county, including brand new… Read More
July is Disability Pride Month – The voices of lived experiences, part three
To celebrate Disability Pride month, the King County Disability Equity Network (KCDEN) gathered reflections from employees living with hidden and visible disabilities about how their disabilities are an asset in the workplace, and how those attributes allow them to effectively serve King County residents. In part three of a multi-part series, KCDEN is sharing these first-person experiences to highlight the contributions of employees with disabilities. Because disability status is often stigmatized, the thoughts are shared anonymously and have been edited for brevity and clarity. ‘My disability is an asset at work because it allows me… Read More
Executive Zahilay convenes regional leaders to explore historic housing investment
Recently, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay announced the steering committee for the housing revenue workgroup, a cross-sector group charged with exploring dedicated funding to address the region’s housing and homelessness crisis. The committee held its first meeting earlier this month. Established through the Breaking the Cycle Executive Order, the steering committee will evaluate the feasibility of a new revenue source to support the building, siting, preservation, maintenance, and operations of emergency shelter and affordable housing in King County, including the potential for the first-ever countywide housing levy. The committee will regularly engage with service providers as well as private sector partners, philanthropy,… Read More
Accessible Voting Events, July 22 through Aug. 1
King County Elections is hosting multiple Accessible Voting Events around the county this election season. These events are open to all and are especially intended to support voters with disabilities or who need additional assistance. In partnership with local libraries and other community groups, these events will have trained Elections staff and accessible voting units to assist voters. At these events, voters can also register to vote or update their voting address, get a replacement ballot, use an accessible voting unit, and ask questions of staff. View the full schedule of Accessible… Read More
King County pet owners alerted to scam
FOX13 Seattle recently shared an article about scammers using AI images of lost pets to target King County residents. Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) was featured in the article, warning owners to remain skeptical and verify the claim with the shelter in-person first. The article quotes Cameron Satterfield, Communications Manager with King County Department of Executive Services, explaining a recent situation with a pet owner. “We were actually approached by a resident of King County [who] came into the shelter and said that he had gotten this text from somebody that showed pictures… Read More
KCSO in the spotlight: Air support
Crossposted from the King County Sheriff’s Office employee newsletter The King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) Air Support Unit was recently featured in an industry publication called Vertical Plus magazine, profiling the team and a collaboration with the Spokane Regional Air Support Unit during the World Cup Matches. “We’re covering the stadium and all of the transit routes in and out of the city, but we also then have to respond to all of the patrol calls throughout the entire King County region and remain ready to support our tactical teams,” KCSO Sgt. Eric Gagnon told Vertical… Read More
Pedals and paws: A summer safety guide
Crossposted from King County Parks This time of year is made for getting outside. With so many people enjoying King County’s parks and trails during the summer, it’s more important than ever that we all do our part to keep these spaces safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for everyone. Two of the biggest ways you can help? Slow your roll and leash up your pup. This summer, King County Parks and partner organizations are teaming up to promote safe, enjoyable experiences across the region. You might see staff out on the trails offering friendly reminders, answering questions, and even rewarding great trail etiquette. Be sure to give them… Read More
2029 midpoint update to the King County Comprehensive Plan: Public input is now open
Crossposted from King County Local King County is starting work on its next update to the Comprehensive Plan (due in 2029), and we’re inviting the public to help shape what’s included. A draft scope of work is now available for review. This document outlines the topics that could be included in the midpoint update, the plan for environmental review, and how community members can get involved throughout the process. For this 2029 Midpoint Update, the county is proposing to focus on three major areas: Climate Change and Resiliency Shorelines Housing The scope of work… Read More
Watch your mailbox!
Your ballot is in the mail. If you haven’t received your ballot by Monday, July 20, give King County Elections a call at 206-296-VOTE. Not sure if you’re registered? Visit VoteWA.gov to register or update your registration information. Vote early! As soon as you’ve made your choices, make a point to return your ballot as soon as possible. Voting early means you can rest assured your ballot is on time and your voice will be heard. For more information about King County Elections visit kingcounty.gov/Elections.
Employee News 