Executive Constantine proclaims 2023 Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month
Sept. 15 is the starting point for Latinx Heritage Month and King County, Executive Dow Constantine has declared Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month in King County. The month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the cultural, educational, economic, and political influences and contributions of Latinx residents. “I urge all residents to join in this community celebration,” he said. Read the full proclamation in English here, and in Spanish here.
Finding hope and raising awareness during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
This September, as we recognize National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we are reminded that we can all provide hope and support to those who are struggling. Too many people experience suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress without the support and care they need. The COVID-19 pandemic added to our anxieties and challenges, putting further stress on people’s mental health and wellness. We know that every year thousands of individuals die by suicide, leaving behind their friends and family members suffering a tragic loss. When we lose someone to suicide, it has a deep and… 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
New Racially Just training for all Executive branch employees
Dear fellow King County employee, One of our core values is “We are racially just.” This means that we work purposefully and intentionally against racism and discrimination, and toward equity for all by building anti-racist and pro-equity approaches into our work, our policies, our budgeting, and our trainings. It means that we make racial justice a central part of how we work and act as King County employees. That is why we have launched a new training: We Are Racially Just: Our King County Values at Work. This training will help to… Read More
Lorraine Patterson-Harris appointed County Administrative Officer and Director of Department of Executive Services
Executive Constantine has appointed Lorraine Patterson-Harris County Administrative Officer (CAO) and Director of the Department of Executive Services (DES). Her appointment is subject to Council confirmation. Lorraine has most recently served as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Department of Natural Resources (DNRP). For the last eight years, she has been a champion for that department, leading continuous improvement work, implementing technology systems, the “Green Where We Work” initiative for DNRP’s post-pandemic operations, and leadership development efforts centered around equity, competencies, and our values. Her previous leadership roles with King County include… Read More
Metro and ATU reach tentative agreement for new contract
By Michelle Allison, General Manager, King County Metro Recently, King County Metro and Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 587 reached a tentative agreement on a new three-year contract. This achievement marks a key milestone in our longstanding partnership and shared commitment to invest in the County’s largest and the country’s finest public transportation workforce. ATU will be providing members with more details about the contract as they prepare to vote on the agreement. Once ATU members approve the contract, it will move to the King County Council for consideration before being ratified… Read More
Bing Subelbia receives 2022 People Leader Award
DNRP Assistant Operations Manager Bing Subelbia has been honored with the People Leader Award, one of King County Executive’s Performance Excellence Awards which highlights a leader below the department or division leadership level who directly manages staff. The People Leader Award is one of three Leadership Excellence Awards honoring King County leaders who embody the Executive Branch values and drive for results that make King County better for employees and customers, and move King County closer to its True North: Making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. Within… Read More
Executive Constantine recognizes July 26 as Disability Pride Day
In recognition of July 26, 2023 marking the 33rd anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990, King County Executive Dow Constantine has proclaimed July 26, 2023 to be Disability Pride Day. “For more than three decades, the ADA has made our communities, our economy, and our county stronger and more vibrant by affirming and protecting the fundamental rights of people with disabilities – the right to equal opportunity, economic self-sufficiency, independent living, and accessible and equitable participation in the community,” he says. Read the full proclamation… Read More
Focus on values: We solve problems
Fellow King County employees: As Deputy Chief Operating Officer – and an employee of King County for almost 25 years, much of it in risk management – I am proud of the changes that have taken place in our workplace. We have become more of a learning culture, treating problems as opportunities to learn, grow, and improve. We have also become more comfortable with taking measured risks to better meet the needs of all our residents. These changes are important to consider as we take a closer look at one of our… Read More
Angela Toussaint receives 2022 Individual Contributor Award
DAJD Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Manager Angela Toussaint has been honored with the Individual Contributor Award, one of King County Executive’s Performance Excellence Awards which highlights an individual contributor who does not directly manage staff. The Individual Contributor Award is one of three Leadership Excellence Awards honoring King County leaders who embody the Executive Branch values and drive for results that make King County better for employees and customers, and move King County closer to its True North: Making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. View the award announcement and watch… Read More
Employee News 