2009 – News about Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer

December 14, 2009
Council approves new life for "retired" vans
"These organizations work hard to make every dollar stretch. I know these vans will have a fulfilling retirement transporting those who need them the most."

November 16, 2009
King County Council adopts tax-neutral financing that maintains Metro bus service despite steep decline in revenues
"Government must do what families across the region are doing during this trying economic time - prioritize and live within our means. This will ensure that bus service, which is the backbone of our public transportation system, continues to be is a cost-saving option for residents in our region."

November 9, 2009
GOAL!!! King County Council backs Seattle's bid to host World Cup
"South King County's long history of neighborhood soccer programs and the success of the Sounders confirms that we live in a region that embraces the game of soccer. Hosting the World Cup would further establish King County as an international hub for culture, sports, and commerce."

October 19, 2009
Council authorizes emergency funding for relocation of County services and protection of County facilities in flood-threatened Green River Valley
"If flood waters strike there will be limited time to react to keep our facilities out of harm's way. This decision assures that the County's vital services such as wastewater treatment will continue their primary responsibility of serving the homes and business in the Green River Valley."

October 12, 2009
"Mega-shelters" being scouted to house up to 5,000 potential evacuees from the Green River Valley in the event of flooding from the federal Howard Hanson Dam
"King County's partnerships with federal, state, and local organizations are essential in the effort to establish operations that are safe and sanitary, and that provide food, transportation and most importantly information to help flood victims start the recovery process."

October 5, 2009
Council told that interim repairs to federal Howard Hanson Dam expected to be done by November 1
"Col. Wright has informed us about the work being done on the federal level to reduce the potential of a catastrophic flood. But even with these preparations, it's vital that preparation on a state, local and neighborhood level continue. That cooperation will ensure the safety of the people who live and work in the Green River Valley."

October 5, 2009
King County Council Recognizes Federal Way AmeriCorps Program

September 16, 2009
Council briefed on cooperation, evacuation, recovery and mitigation in Green River flood zone
"Today's briefing is an example of the necessary dialogue that must continue between all levels of government as the Green River Valley region prepares for possible flooding. These coordinated partnerships will assure the residents and businesses of the region that every angle is being looked at in order to prepare, react and recover from flood waters."

September 9, 2009
Council briefed on relocation of Elections operations and public notification in Green River flood zone
"It is King County's responsibility to ensure families and businesses are informed and prepared to react to potential flooding. While the county prepares its own facilities and employees, the greater community must recognize the seriousness of this issue."

September 2, 2009
Plans for flood barriers around Justice Center and continuation of essential services in Green River Valley detailed for Council committee
"King County needs to take these proactive steps in order to prepare public facilities, county employees and the community for potential flooding. The County's ability to provide services in midst of an emergency is critical."

August 31, 2009
Council authorizes proactive emergency declaration in advance of potential flooding from Howard Hanson Dam
"This step is necessary in the effort to alert our region for what could be the most significant natural emergency to hit South County in our lifetime."

August 26, 2009
New risk of flooding from Howard Hanson Dam could threaten County facilities and require emergency relocations
"This is a regional issue - the impact of flood waters will reach far beyond the Green River Valley. The beginning of flood season is a little over a month away. King County is encouraging everyone to act now in order to maximize preparedness efforts."

July 30, 2009
Councilmembers call for comprehensive approach to close Metro Transit deficit
"Now is not the time for costly experiments. In the face of cuts to public safety and efficient transit, new ferry routes are not a priority."

June 29, 2009
King County Council recognizes UW championship softball and crew teams
"The national championship titles won by these teams proved the commitment of the coaches and players; their dedication to teamwork was critical to their success. The championships bring a tremendous amount of pride to our region."

June 3, 2009
County Council to discuss criminal justice initiatives
"We will learn about proactive public safety initiatives that promote collaboration between police departments in an effort to develop cost effective solutions that will combat criminal activity."

May 26, 2009
Council approves new life for retired vans
"King County's retired van donation program is a terrific way for the county to assist those non-profit organizations who play a vital role in elevating the quality of life throughout our region."

May 18, 2009
County Council integrates Metro bus service around new Link light rail system
"Sound Transit and King County Metro are working together to make this a positive change, so riders have a user-friendly and efficient service."

April 27, 2009
Heightened local monitoring is underway for swift detection of swine flu, King County Council is told
"Although no local cases have been reported as of today in King County, we want to make sure everyone has the information they need to identify the symptoms in order to prevent the spread of this rare flu."

February 23, 2009
Enumclaw takes control of King County Fair
"Last fall we could have lost an important piece of King County history. However, because of the strong outpouring of community and regional support, the King County Fair has been preserved. I look forward to attending the fair for many more years to come, and working with Enumclaw leaders to expand its heritage."