Last month, Solid Waste Division employee Kevin Dahl was unhooking his trailer before leaving Cedar Hills for his final garbage load of the night. That’s when he noticed something unusual. What he saw was a utility truck parked by the wash bays’ restrooms. Not an unusual spot to be but at that time of night most workers using those vehicles have clocked out. When he returned from the transfer station 90 minutes later to pick up his final load of the night, the utility truck was still there. Kevin had a strong… Read More

King County Executive Dow Constantine is recognizing the dedication and expertise of King County’s payroll professionals by proclaiming Sept. 5 through Sept. 9, 2022 as National Payroll Week. “I encourage all County residents to join me in recognizing hardworking Americans across our nation, and in honoring all payroll professionals for their contributions to our economy and quality of life,” Constantine states. Read the entire proclamation below.

With mask mandates lifted in most settings and many people resuming in-person activities, public health experts are predicting flu activity will ramp up this season. It’s especially important for every person to be protected before it starts to spread in our area to give your body time to build immunity. The county makes it free for employees and anyone covered by your healthcare benefits to get a flu shot at one of our onsite clinics, or at your doctor’s office or local pharmacy. The Balanced You team is again organizing free onsite… Read More

Preventive Care is a term that means routine health care services, such as check-ups, screenings, and tests, to prevent illnesses and health problems. King County health plans have reported that preventive screenings have declined among our employee population. Scheduling your annual well-visit with your Primary Care Provider is the best way to stay on top of your long-term health. As a King County employee, preventive screenings are 100% covered by your health plan—you pay nothing. Learn more about how to get caught up with your preventive care on the Balanced You blog.

Monday, Sept. 5 is Labor Day, and King County government offices will be closed. All offices will reopen Tuesday, Sept. 6. On Sept. 5, most Metro Transit buses will operate on Sunday schedules. As a reminder, starting this year King County government will observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a new annual paid holiday on the second Monday in October or Oct. 10, 2022. This new holiday will provide an opportunity for us to deepen our knowledge about our nation’s history and the institutionalized practices and policies that continue to harm Indigenous people today, and… Read More

By Whitney Abrams, Chief People Officer September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and it’s a reminder for all of us of the importance of checking in on each other and seeking support in times of crisis.   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 profound effect on us.   Suicide has warning signs, and I encourage you to take the time to learn them. Seeking support… Read More

As parents are preparing for the new school year, it’s likely there is a to-do list that is piled high. Making Life Easier (MLE) provides a free childcare and parenting resource for King County employees that includes unlimited calls and instant messaging for resources and referral assistance for kids from birth to age 16. Childcare consultants can offer resources to support parents in a number of situations like finding emergency back-up care if your school closes, volunteer opportunities for teens, play groups for infants/toddlers, and preschool recommendations. Consultants can also search for… Read More

Employee and employer contribution rates for retirement plans will change on Sept. 1, 2022, as approved by the State Legislature. The state Pension Funding Council adjusts contribution rates as needed to fund the retirement benefits earned by members. Click here to see the new contribution rates.