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
Vehicle use policy changes
The Use of Vehicles for County Business policy, which covers the use of non-revenue county vehicles and employee-provided vehicles to conduct county business, was recently updated. Since county employees conduct business all over Washington state, one important change that came with this update is allowing vehicles to be driven outside of King County without prior authorization. However, other policies and department or division requirements still apply. Employees who drive county vehicles must have a valid Washington state driver’s license and follow the King County Vehicle Driver’s Operating Manual. The manual covers how… 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… Read More
Executive hosts conversation on youth mental health with US Surgeon General
King County Executive Dow Constantine yesterday hosted a discussion with United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy on the youth mental health crisis and policy resources for youth mental health at the National Association of Counties Legislative Conference in Washington D.C. “One of the challenges that we are facing is the increased mental health burden, the increased challenges, particularly for youth, after three years of this disruption. The impact on children and youth has been pronounced and is on top of challenges youth were already experiencing,” Executive Constantine said during the discussion…. Read More
Rescue training: Ice, ice, baby
Cross-posted from the Sheriff’s newsletter Recently, the King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) Marine Rescue Dive Unit (MRDU) participated in a joint training day with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office Dive unit. The training was specific to Ice Rescue and Ice Diving operations and took place at Fish Lake in Chelan County. Outside temperatures during the day were in the twenties, water temperature was 34 degrees Fahrenheit and safety was the biggest aspect of this training. Ice thickness was up to 12 inches in places and conditions were very cold. In spite of the frozen training… Read More
Find a primary care provider
Research shows that people with a primary care provider (PCP) enjoy better health outcomes. People who have a relationship with a primary care provider as their usual source of care are more likely to receive high-value care, have better access to care, and report a higher satisfaction with their health care. A PCP who you see regularly is likely to find problems sooner and can be a trusted resource who follows you over time. Seeing your PCP regularly can also help save money and avoid more costly care, such as an emergency… 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.
Employee Giving Program committee recruiting new members
New members are being recruited for the Employee Giving Program committee. This team works on strategic planning, policy development and recommendations, process improvements, employee engagement, communications and marketing, and project planning and implementation. The committee is looking for members that are passionate about creating opportunities for King County employee engagement, are interested to learn about and strengthen relationships with participating nonprofit agencies, and are lifelong learners wanting to further develop their leadership skills as part of a high performing team. Read more.
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.
Employee News 