Celebrating Black Women at Metro
Cross-posted from Metro Matters Metro understands that to become anti-racist and pro-equity, our celebration of Black History Month must be centered on the experiences of those who continue to push us to model and champion our values. This year, Metro is celebrating Black women at Metro and the difference they make in operations by sharing their stories of hope, perseverance, and resilience. Read more.
Wastewater becomes a resource for growing food with help from a treatment plant
Cross-posted from Clean Water Stories CitySoil Farm was started in 2008 as a demonstration site to show the benefits of turning wastewater into valuable resources such as recycled water and biosolids that can be used as fertilizer. After 12 years, it has become a 1.5-acre city farm that not only produces food for the community, but also has outdoor classrooms, an orchard, and multiple learning spaces. Read more.
State Paid Leave benefits assists military family members
The King County Veterans and Military Affinity Group (VMAG) would like to remind all County employees who are family members of Active Duty, Guard, or Reserve members, that the Washington State Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program is available to assist you when the stressors of deployment arise. The PFML program allows up to 12 weeks of paid leave to prepare for a family member’s pre- and post-deployment, or to manage childcare issues related to a deployment. This benefit may be useful if you have exhausted your accrued leaves. For eligibility information and… Read More
DNRP: Celebrating Black History Month
In honor of Black History Month, Art Hendricks, the Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Manager for the Department of Natural Resources and Parks, was asked to curate a list of resources that employees and the community can access to deepen our knowledge and awareness of Black history. “I encourage you to intentionally learn, discuss, and honor the contributions of African Americans,” stated Hendricks. “Most important, honoring Black History Month is an opportunity to create a sense of community and belonging within our workplace, King County, and across the country.” Read more.
Have an idea to improve language access services? Your department may be eligible for a grant.
King County’s Office of Equity, Racial and Social Justice has grant funds available for qualifying language access projects and programs. The goal of this funding is to assist departments with implementing their Language Access Plans and ensuring meaningful access for persons with disabilities or who speak languages other than English. Eligible proposals must address language access needs or gaps related to COVID-19 and its impacts. Your department or agency is encouraged to apply. If you have an idea, reach out to your Language Access Liaison to discuss potential programs or projects that may be eligible… Read More
King County to observe Presidents Day holiday on Monday, Feb. 20
Most King County offices will be closed in observance of Presidents Day on Monday, Feb. 20. Due to the nature of our work, some services will continue as normal while others will operate on a reduced schedule. Metro will remain on regular weekday service. If you have any questions about your schedule, please talk to your supervisor. Offices will return to normal service on Tuesday, Feb. 21.
Metromance: Two bus operators who drove straight to a fairytale!
Cross-posted from Metro Matters The year was 1981. Paul Schwartz and Debra Revere were both assigned to the Ryerson Base in Seattle. Paul had begun driving for Metro in 1979 and Debra in 1980. In a truly perfect Metro moment, the two met in the base bullpen (the lobby for operators). Their first conversation: Discussing Paul’s selection as Operator of the Month. In July of 1982, Debra sent a request to the popular live NPR radio program “A Prairie Home Companion” to have Paul wished a happy birthday during the broadcast. During the broadcast, she… Read More
Safety Tip: Latest security updates
Our top priority is your safety and security at work, and we are continuing to partner with law enforcement, community, and other governments to ensure a safer, more welcoming environment in and around our facilities. This video covers the latest updates to King County security programs as well as resources and information. Check out the video and view other safety videos on the Future of Work Personal Safety at Work intranet page (employees only). For more information on employee safety programs, visit the Safety at Work page.
February is Heart Health Month
In observance of Heart Health Month, King County and Omada Diabetes Prevention program want to provide you with tips for taking small steps to improving your heart health. There’s no question about it–regular activity really pays off, from lowering your blood sugar and cholesterol to reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke. Read the Balanced You blog for tips for getting active as well as more information about the Omada Diabetes Management program and Diabetes Prevention program.
On the beat in Burien with Detective Mark Hayden
Cross-posted from the Sheriff’s newsletter Detective Mark Hayden has been serving the Burien Police Department and its community for almost 20 years, most recently as the full-time resource officer for downtown Burien. Recently, Undersheriff Jesse Anderson joined Detective Hayden for a stroll through the Burien Farmers Market, where they interacted with community members and business owners. They all expressed their gratitude for the difference Det. Hayden made with his presence on foot patrol.
Employee News 