2015 – News about Councilmember Dave Upthegrove

November 23, 2015
Renton Historical Society Awarded Funds to Renovate Museum Lobby
“Renton has a rich history and an important story to share. I’m proud to support this project and look forward to visiting the new lobby when it is completed.”

November 9, 2015
County Council takes first action in response to homeless emergency
“I’m glad we found a way to increase shelter for men and women during the harsh winter months. We will continue to seek long-term solutions to address the growing need of families dealing with homelessness all over King County.”

November 9, 2015
County Council recognizes Green River College’s “Golden Anniversary”
“The faculty, staff and students at Green River College have made the college a real treasure in South King County for the last 50 years. In particular, the branch campus located in downtown Kent at Kent Station offers everything from small business counseling to college credit classes and is a wonderful asset to the community.”
 
October 26, 2015
Council votes to make major changes to Metro’s fare enforcement policy
“I was shocked to learn that youth can be charged criminally for fare evasion on Metro buses. Young bus riders should be held accountable for evading a fare but not charged criminally, and I am pleased that the Council supported me in changing this policy.”

September 15, 2015
Upthegrove plan to restore salmon in Green River moves forward
“Our iconic King (Chinook) Salmon are dying in the Green River because the water is too warm. These salmon need cool water, food and shelter to survive. The most affordable way to help cool the water in the Green River is to plant large trees along the river to provide shade and shelter.”

July 27, 2015
County Council offers increased support for arts and cultural programs
“King County’s heritage and cultural organizations come in all shapes and sizes and I am proud to be sponsoring a proposal that will help all types of these groups. The Building for Culture Program will help organizations from Federal Way, to Snoqualmie and everywhere in between.”

July 22, 2015
County Council sends “Best Start for Kids” initiative to the voters
“I’m excited that the citizens of King County will have the opportunity to vote to fund prevention and intervention measures for kids. If approved, this revenue will be used to support programs for kids all over King County.”

July 20, 2015
Charter amendment to establish charter-based office for civilian oversight of law enforcement sent to November ballot
“My constituents in South King County are demanding more accountable and transparent policing. This charter amendment will allow the citizens of King County the opportunity to vote to create a stronger system with the opportunity for stronger civilian oversight.”

July 1, 2015
Upthegrove proposes major changes to bus fare enforcement for youth
“I want to keep young bus riders accountable while at the same time eliminate outdated and counter-productive practices. Kids should not be charged criminally or suspended for months without due process from what is often their only form of transportation.”

June 26, 2015
Statement on the Supreme Court’s Ruling on Marriage Equality
“Today’s United States Supreme Court decision represents American progress at our best—advancing the cause of justice and providing stability and security to families in every corner of our nation.” 

June 1, 2015
County Council proclaims June “Gay Pride Month”
“Our economy works best when everyone is included. I’m proud to represent a community that values equality and fairness for everybody.”

May 26, 2015
County Council calls for collaboration, equity, and best technology in cleanup of Duwamish 
“The South Park community has faced a lot of challenges over the years associated with poor air quality, water pollution and high concentrations of poverty. I am committed to working with the residents of South Park in these restoration efforts and I am glad that the Council is sharing in this commitment.” 

May 18, 2015
Upthegrove delivers “retired” van to assist seniors and youth to the City of Renton
“I am thrilled that the City of Renton will be able to use this van to support seniors and youth to access various programs and services throughout the county. This ‘retired’ van will transport seniors to the services they need, assist youth with transportation to Special Olympic sites and explore the hiking trails throughout King County to promote healthy living.”

May 5, 2015
Upthegrove delivers “retired” van to assist kids at the Southwest Youth & Family Services
“I am glad that a ‘retired’ van from King County can help Southwest Youth and Family Services get kids to and from after school activities. SWYFS support youth through various strategies and programs, and this van will give them reliable transportation to continue this important work.”  

May 1, 2015
County Councilmembers call for release of King County resident Nestora Salgado from Mexican prison
“This matter is urgent. I hope the United States State Department will increase its efforts and take affirmative action to free Nestora Salgado from imprisonment in Mexico. Ms. Salgado needs to be back home with her family in Renton.”

April 10, 2015
Upthegrove: Sound Transit route should align with I-5
“It’s an option where everyone benefits. The I-5 alignment is cheaper than running the tracks down Highway 99 and travel times would essentially be the same.”

April 1, 2015
Upthegrove statement on the retirement of Council Chair Larry Phillips
“While Larry’s presence will be greatly missed on the Council, I’m sure he will continue to work to make King County a better place in his ‘retirement’. I look forward to serving with him for the remainder of his term.”

March 31, 2015
King County takes action to root out racial disparity in juvenile justice system
“For a lot of reasons, too many kids from communities of color in South King County are being locked up. We need to take significant action now to keep all kids out of jail and to help all kids succeed.”

February 23, 2015
Council adopts legislation that will benefit Green River preservation projects
“The Green River is too warm and is killing young salmon. We need more trees to shade the river to cool it down so more salmon can survive.”

February 12, 2015
Low Income Bus Fare Coming in March!
“The ORCA LIFT pass and Metro’s new reduced bus fare will make commuting more affordable for thousands of people in South King County. I am grateful that organizations like Global to Local here in SeaTac are stepping up to help as many people as possible take advantage of the new card.”