Shoreline gun buyback sees strong community support
Crossposted from the King County Sheriff’s Office Employee Newsletter Recently, the King County Sheriff’s Office gun buyback event in Shoreline was a standout success, reflecting the community’s shared commitment to safety and well‑being. Cars lined up early and participation remained steady throughout the day. Thanks to the strong turnout, the program collected 211 firearms and distributed $34,050 in gift cards. One person turned in 20 guns, receiving $4,000 in gift cards. The positive response underscores the value of collaboration with King County Public Health. Watch the Fox13 coverage here.
King County Water Taxi shifts to fall-winter schedule after record breaking summer
Crossposted from Metro Matters The King County Water Taxi is getting ready for its fall and winter sailing schedule after a summer that saw a record number of riders “Make it a Boat Day.” In October, the Vashon Water Taxi will conclude its pilot weekend service. The West Seattle Water Taxi late-night Friday and Saturday seasonal service also ends Oct. 10. This summer, the water taxi’s theme was “Make it a Boat Day,” and it included extra sailings for Seattle Mariners weekday evening games and the World Cup tournament, along with its… Read More
Why transit matters — and why a Week Without Driving is the perfect time to try it
Crossposted from Metro Matters Traffic is tough, gas is expensive, and parking is difficult. And for many living with disabilities or reduced incomes, owning a car is simply off the table. Week Without Driving, Oct. 1-8, has begun, and it’s a great way to sample how transit can simplify your life and learn more about how essential it is to our community. Whether you’re heading home from work, returning from a concert, or connecting to another type of travel, transit is a great way to get around. At Metro, we’re here for… Read More
For forging a path to recovery, King County drug court employee honored by Senator Patty Murray
Crossposted from King County Superior Court on Medium Joe Barsana was a child when he first met Patty Murray. She was his preschool teacher. Murray would later be known as the “mom in tennis shoes” who became an influential U.S. senator. Barsana became addicted to drugs as a young man, got arrested multiple times, and eventually got into King County Drug Diversion Court (KCDDC). He graduated in 2020, then went back to KCDDC and asked for a job. Read more.
Observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Oct. 12
On the second Monday in October King County government observes Indigenous Peoples’ Day as an annual paid holiday. This year, Indigenous Peoples’ Day is on Monday, Oct. 12. This holiday provides an opportunity for us to deepen our knowledge and understanding of Indigenous heritage and culture, and the many ongoing contributions of Indigenous people in our region. Most County operations will close on Oct. 12, but some will continue, including some court operations. All offices will return to normal operations Tuesday, Oct. 13. On Oct. 12, most Metro Transit buses will operate… Read More
Test of KCInform employee alert and warning system on Oct. 15
King County will conduct a test of KCInform, King County’s employee alert and warning system, on Thursday, Oct. 15 at approximately 9:30 a.m. as part of the annual Great Washington ShakeOut drill to test earthquake preparedness. Employees will receive test messages from KCInform via phone, text, and email. The phone call and text will come from 206-477-5330 and the email from KCInform via noreply@everbridge.net. KCInform is used to notify County employees of emergency situations, infrastructure disruptions, facility closures, changes in department business operations, and other critical impacts. Your King County desk phone… Read More
Get Movin’ with Balanced You: 2026 fall schedule
Movement and physical activity are proven to have a positive impact on mental health. These movement breaks and live weekly fitness classes are free and virtual so you can tap in from anywhere and benefit from the instruction of a certified trainer. Join us for all the classes in the Get Movin’ with Balanced You series focusing on yoga, stretching, cardio, core exercises, mat-based Pilates, tai chi, and strength training. Classes are for all levels, from beginner to advanced. No special gear is needed and the sessions are all body-weight movement. A… Read More
Protect yourself, your coworkers, and your family: Get your annual flu and COVID-19 shots
King County wants employees to be healthy so you can feel good, get the most out of life, and do your best work for the community we serve. While respiratory illness season begins in autumn, it typically peaks in January and February and continues through the spring, with potential COVID-19 waves any time of year. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) recommends that everyone six months and older receive the 2026-2027 flu and COVID‑19 vaccines. Read more.
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) marks its 81st anniversary this October, offering an important opportunity to recognize the meaningful contributions of people with disabilities in the workforce. These individuals bring innovation, adaptability, and resilience, having spent their lives navigating environments not originally designed with their needs in mind. Their lived experience cultivates creative problem‑solving, a sharp ability to spot challenges others might overlook, and a deep persistence developed through overcoming barriers throughout their lives. When employers look beyond outdated assumptions about disability, they uncover talent, capability, and potential that too often… Read More
How to prepare for emergencies at work
Each month the Employee Newsletter will feature a new Safety Tips segment. This month’s topic is: Do you know what to do at work during an emergency? An emergency can take many forms, such as a fire, an earthquake, or an act of violence against you or others. It is important to know where your nearest exits are located and identify safe areas in your workspace. Below are trainings and information that can help you in an emergency: Fire Safety Basics for Employees Floor Warden: Basic Training Floor Warden: Considerations for Persons… Read More
