Executive Constantine statement on approval of Harborview bond measure
King County Executive Dow Constantine released the following statement late Tuesday evening on the $1.74 billion Harborview Medical Center bond measure after King County Elections posted that it was passing by 77 percent of the vote in early returns. “While there are still many votes to be counted, I thank the voters of King County for their support for Harborview Medical Center. These investments will ensure that our region continues to be the best place in the country to receive emergency medical care, and needed seismic upgrades will protect the lives of patients, employees,… Read More
Remaining focused on our priorities and values
Dear fellow King County employee, I know that many of us are feeling anxious and uncertain about the future of our nation and our world right now as we wait for a result in yesterday’s presidential election. For many, the prospect of weeks of recounts and legal actions only compounds what has been some of the most stressful times in our nation’s history, and our own lives. We must remain patient, vigilant, and steadfast. The record voter turnout in King County showed that, in this corner of the nation, we are united… Read More
Make the most of your King County benefits
Open Enrollment for next year’s benefits is Nov. 1-15, so now is the time to review your benefit options for 2021. Make sure you get the most out of your robust King County employee benefits package by learning what’s offered during Open Enrollment and how you can make changes: Check out the new online enrollment tool: This year, we’re using an updated PeopleSoft tool featuring a new look and feel and a mobile-friendly interface – making it easier for you to complete Open Enrollment using a smartphone or tablet. For details and step-by-step… Read More
Extension of mandatory telecommuting through July 5, 2021
Dear fellow King County employee, This has been a challenging year. We’ve had to radically change many aspects of our lives. The way we work has shifted dramatically for all of us, whether you are working onsite and remotely. First responders and employees delivering in-person services continue to do extraordinary work, adjusting to new safety measures and protocols. Teleworkers have adapted to new technology and changes in the way services are offered. Employees with school-aged children are juggling multiple roles, while the demands of work remain. I thank you for your efforts…. Read More
Working to end domestic violence
Dear employees, This month, we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month in King County to raise awareness about the signs of abuse and how we can stop it. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States – more than 10 million people each year – according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. There is also concern that these numbers will jump as a result of social distancing and quarantine during COVID-19. King County is committed to stopping domestic violence in our community and at work…. Read More
Reducing flood risks, improving salmon habitat, sustaining orca: Work begins on a major Cedar River restoration project
King County and partners have started a major restoration project along the Cedar River that will reduce flood risks, improve habitat for Chinook salmon, and provide sustenance to southern resident orcas. The 52-acre project will restore a mile-long portion of the river in South King County to its natural state, creating slow-water, shallow habitat that is ideal for native Chinook salmon. It will build on the progress that partners have made to protect people, homes, and infrastructure from flood risks along the the river that flows from the Cascades to the southern tip of… Read More
Celebrating Disability Awareness Month in King County
Dear fellow King County employee, Each October, we celebrate Disability Awareness Month in King County and the many contributions that people with disabilities make to our community. Every person deserves the opportunity to fulfil their potential, share their unique abilities, and fully participate in everything that our region has to offer. Disability Awareness Month reminds us that we must continue to break down barriers to promote inclusion and expand opportunity for all people with disabilities. The global COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the urgency of this work. COVID-19 is having a disproportionate impact… Read More
King County Metro proposed budget maintains region’s network, looks ahead to future growth
Crossposted from Metro Matters King County Executive Dow Constantine transmitted Metro’s proposed two-year budget to the King County Council on Sept. 22, starting the formal process for funding the operations of the region’s largest public transportation network. The budget outlines our ongoing commitment to providing reliable bus, water taxi, Access paratransit, and vanpool service – especially to serve riders where needs are greatest. It shows how Metro plans to continue to respond and adapt to the continued challenges of reduced revenue projections and lower ridership as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read… Read More
Residents and workers of King County awarded Executive Award for Community Resilience
The 10th annual King County Executive Award for Community Resilience was presented today to all the residents and workers of King County for their dedication to the community. As King County deals with the twin pandemics of COVID-19 and racial injustice, residents and workers have stepped up to show what true resilience really looks like. From first responders, to healthcare workers, to teachers and daycare workers, to all the King County government employees, individuals have made tremendous sacrifice to keep others safe. Past recipients have included the Somali Health Board, King County… Read More
Update on the 2021-2022 Proposed Budget
Executive Dow Constantine transmitted his 2021-2022 Proposed Budget to the King County Council this week. Dwight Dively, Director of the Office of Performance, Strategy and Budget, recorded a short video about the budget for employees, including a brief overview of three important initiatives—anti-racism, Health Through Housing, and the COVID-19 response. Council expects to adopt the budget on Nov. 17 after extensive deliberations and public comment. For more information, view the video below.
Employee News 