Collaborative culture sets the Inquest Program apart
Crossposted from DES Express Inquest Program employees see and hear things that many others never do. Even months or a year after an inquest hearing, those graphic images and sounds are hard to shake. The collaborative culture of the program not only helps employees successfully perform their jobs; it helps them deal with what is by its nature a stressful work environment. One staffer remembers the video of a police shooting victim’s children, being led from the scene by a neighbor. More than a year later, the employee remembers asking a colleague… Read More
Volunteer Tails: Fostering Bunnies
Crossposted from Tails from RASKC At Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC), we care for more than just cats and dogs. Depending on the need, we’ve taken in guinea pigs, birds, snakes, and even a rat or two. This year, we’ve taken in a large number of rabbits, which has been a bit unusual. Unfortunately, rabbits don’t do well in the shelter environment – but fortunately we have a group of dedicated bunny foster families who care for these fuzzy critters in their own home until they’re adopted. This story about one… Read More
Local food for all: Launch of 2024 refresh of the Local Food Initiative and Regional Food System Program
Crossposted from Keeping King County Green King County took a big step in becoming a leader in metropolitan food systems planning in 2014 when Executive Dow Constantine launched the Local Food Initiative (LFI) to expand the local food economy, to benefit county food businesses and farms, and to improve access to health and affordable food in low-income communities. Now, nearly a decade later, King County is launching a refresh of the LFI and King Conservation District’s complementary Regional Food System Program (RFSP). “The time is right. Climate change is more urgent than ever, the COVID-19 pandemic… Read More
Executive, employees accept Employer Support Freedom Award in Washington D.C.
King County was honored at a ceremony in Washington D.C. with a 2023 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award in recognition of its support of National Guard and Reserve members. Only 15 recipients were selected for the award, which is the highest recognition given by the U.S. government to small and large private and public sector employers for their exceptional support of employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve. On hand to receive the award were King County Executive Dow Constantine, Chief People Officer Whitney Abrams, Metro Transit Operator Christopher Cappelletti… Read More
Tips for clean air indoors on smoky days: A Public Health comic
Crossposted from Public Health Insider When it’s smoky out, it’s important to do all you can to keep indoor air clean. Check out these tips from our crafter’s corner and don’t forget to visit www.kingcounty.gov/wildfiresmoke for more tips and resources. More information about protecting your health from wildfire smoke, including how to make a DIY box fan filter is at www.kingcounty.gov/wildfire smoke. View the entire comic here.
Employees, others get an opportunity to test out “zippy” electric vehicles
Crossposted from the DES Express Fleet Services recently hosted their first “Ride and Drive” event focused solely on light duty electric vehicles, the kind you might drive at work or home one day (or already!). The goal was to provide information and opportunities for King County employees and folks from other agencies to try out electric vehicles, enticing them to consider using them when more become available. Attendees met first to hear presentations from electric auto makers. “Ford, Volvo and Mack Trucks all focused on their vehicle electrification programs, what’s available and… Read More
Caroline Whalen retires after 29 years at King County
Crossposted from DES Express Caroline Whalen, director of the Department of Executive Services since 2010, retires next month after 29 years at King County. Her last day in the office will be Sept. 8. “Working for King County was the best career decision I’ve made,” Whalen said. During her county career, she has written land use code, organized massive rezone mailings along with an associated call center, analyzed legislation, and served as a lead staff for the County Council. She worked her way up to deputy director in the former Department of… Read More
Surface Water Management Fee discount for families with low incomes – Apply by Sept. 15, 2023
If you qualify as a low-income household and live on your own property in unincorporated King County, you may be eligible for a 50 percent discount on the annual surface water management fee on your land parcel(s). Residents approved for the King County Senior Citizen and People with Disabilities Reduction in Property Taxes are already approved for this discount and do not need to apply. The open period to apply is every year from Aug. 1 through Sept. 15. Learn more about the fee discount at www.kingcounty.gov/swmfeediscount, call 206-477-4800, or email wlrdswm@kingcounty.gov. Information about… Read More
Providing support for Maui wildfire response
The devastating wildfires on the Hawaiian island of Maui last week left a trail of destruction and loss of life in their wake. The impact on people, communities, and the environment has been devastating. Rebuilding homes, communities, and lives will take months and years. Our thoughts are with the families of those who have lost their loved ones, with those who lost their homes, and with the first responders working hard to find those that are still missing. Employees may be wondering how they can help. This year’s Annual Giving Drive is… Read More
Excessive heat warning Aug. 14-16
Hotter than normal weather is forecast for our region from Aug. 14-16. Temperatures could reach the low to mid 90’s during the day, and the 60’s to 70’s at night. Here are some tips from Public Health – Seattle & King County to help you manage the heat: Get more tips and advice on these sites: Public Health – Seattle & King County: Hot weather preparedness King County Emergency News: It’s a summer heat wave in the NW – what you should know | King County Emergency News (kcemergency.com) King County Regional Homelessness… Read More
Employee News 