2022 – News about Councilmember Reagan Dunn

December 13, 2022
Flood Control District Elects Reagan Dunn as its New Chair for 2023
“I am excited to once again serve as Chair as the King County Flood Control District. As we’ve seen in recent years, flooding has the potential to cause devastating damage to so many homes, businesses, and other infrastructure. I look forward to working with my colleagues to deliver improved flood protection it in the year ahead.”

November 22, 2022
Council authorizes $316,000 in contributions for Foothills Trail from Pierce County, Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition
“I am grateful for the partnership with Pierce County and the Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition that makes this project possible. The Foothills Trail is a resource that crosses jurisdictional boundaries, and it is only through collaboration that we are able to move forward with this exciting addition.”

November 17, 2022
Study will examine potential of increasing goods transport across Stampede Pass
“There is an exciting opportunity before us to potentially improve rail transport across Stampede Pass. This project seems to hold promising benefits for local trade, traffic congestion, and our environment, and is worth a closer look and serious consideration.”

November 15, 2022
Dunn secures funds to revamp King County’s response flooding in rural areas
“Current flood control practices tend to focus on reducing the flooding of our rivers. However, what we’ve seen in recent years is that when flooded creeks and tributaries cause stormwater infrastructure to overflow, that can be just as damaging to nearby people and property — particularly in rural areas. Yet, it’s unclear whose job it is to provide the flood control infrastructure that combats this type of flooding.”

November 15, 2022
Dunn works to expand access to treatment for substance use disorder in County’s 2023-24 budget
“The rise of substance use disorder, here in King County as well as nationwide, is a crisis situation. I’m working to address this crisis because, frankly, lives are on the line — and I know from my own experience with recovery how important it is that treatment is available and accessible to all who need it. We have a lot of work to do in King County on this front.”

November 15, 2022
Dunn delivers over $116K for greater Maple Valley area organizations
“I am proud to be able to advocate for these investments in the greater Maple Valley area during King County’s budget process. These are projects that will further enrich our wonderful community, and I’m glad they will receive this critical funding.”

October 27, 2022
Don’t Count Us Out: King County Launches Campaign to Fight Stigma of Addiction, Share Hope for Recovery
“Many people do not know that I am active in recovery from alcohol abuse and I have achieved many years of sobriety. I am so very lucky to have the support of my family, friends, and recovery community. Their support is what made the real difference in helping me reclaim my life. I realized from this experience that in order to empower those who are battling addiction to take that big step and get treatment, we need to give them encouragement and hope—not judgement or scorn.”

October 12, 2022
Enumclaw flood reduction projects receive $1.47 million in funding
“I’m excited to see major funding provided to projects in Enumclaw that not only reduce the threat of flooding along important roadways, but also improve critical salmon habitat. This is a victory for our community and for our natural environment.”

October 12, 2022
Newcastle Railroad Embankment Project receives $750k Flood Reduction Grant
“It is absolutely necessary to fix the blockage that is constricting the flow of Newport Hills Creek, and I am pleased that this funding will support that fix. Not only will this project reduce the risk of flooding, but it will also make it easier for migrating fish to navigate the waterway, making this a project with multiple benefits.”  

October 12, 2022
City of Maple Valley receives $370k Flood Reduction Grant for Jenkins Creek Culvert Replacement Project
“I am excited to see major funding go to Maple Valley’s Jenkins Creek Culvert Replacement project that will not only reduce risk of flooding, but increase salmon passage in Jenkins Creek. This grant will help restore the natural flow of the creek and is a major win for our community and the environment.”

September 28, 2022
Council votes unanimously to help local food banks amid soaring inflation
“It’s no secret that grocery bills are soaring across King County, causing more and more folks to turn to their local food bank for help feeding their families. In turn, our food banks need a little help so they can meet those increasing needs as operating costs rise. I am grateful to my colleagues on the Council for unanimously supporting this legislation so that we can amplify the efforts of the organizations that are working day in and day out to serve those in our communities who are struggling to make ends meet.”

September 27, 2022
Council approves Dunn’s proposal to expand hate crime reporting system
“If we are to more fully respond to the unprecedented surge in hate crimes we’ve seen in King County, we need to provide more pathways for victims of these dehumanizing crimes to report them. Without boosting reporting rates, we only allow crimes of hate and bias to proliferate — and no one in King County should live in threat of retaliation or even danger due to their race, religion, beliefs, appearance, or any other differences that exist among us.”

September 7, 2022 
Inflation Concerns Propel Food Bank Legislation Through Committee
“At this very moment across King County, foodbanks are not able to keep up. Combined with the most vulnerable being hit the hardest by increasing costs of basic goods and services this is a recipe for disaster. We need to act now to ensure food banks are getting the supplies they need to serve communities across King County.”

September 6, 2022 
Dunn and Upthegrove Proclaim September as Behavioral Health Recovery Month
“We must understand the recovery process, and support those who seek it in their individual journey. It is critical that we acknowledge mental health and substance use disorder as a healthcare issue and destigmatize these conditions. People need to know it’s okay to ask for help and seek recovery.”

September 1, 2022 
Councilmembers Dunn, Dembowski, von Reichbauer introduce motion to oppose new airport in Enumclaw
“Placing, or even proposing, an airport in the Southeast King County Enumclaw area would be a legal, environmental, and planning disaster. Consideration of a King County site has brought together a broad coalition of community and local elected leaders in opposition. We want to send a unified message to the State that having an airport in the area that they proposed will not be entertained.”

August 30, 2022
Dunn’s proposal for county-wide hate crime reporting system clears key committee vote
“Crimes motivated by hate and bias have surged to record-setting levels across King County, and yet we know that the vast majority these incidents still go underreported. An expansion of a community-based reporting system is what our county needs in order to assist victims who may not otherwise file a police report. I am thankful to my colleagues for supporting this effort to increase justice for all residents in our communities by establishing a dedicated hate crime reporting system.”

August 25, 2022
Dunn calls for early audits of Regional Homelessness Authority
“I believe now is the appropriate time to begin assessing the financial and operational performance of the Authority. Audits now would ensure that King County and, more importantly, our tax-paying residents are getting the value promised when the Authority was established, while providing information to policy makers as we consider continued funding and allowing the ILA past the initial five-year term.”

July 27, 2022
Reagan Dunn Seeks to Curb Repeat Offenders with New Legislation
“Law enforcement should have the discretion to book high-impact, repeat offenders into the King County Jail when there is a likelihood that they will commit more crimes if they are put back out on the streets. Our most emboldened and notorious criminals must answer for their crimes and be stopped rather than simply being released to inflict more harm onto our communities.”

July 25, 2022
Dunn proposes graffiti removal initiative to restore communities and promote public safety
“Graffiti is a highly-visible crime that sends a signal that neighborhoods are not being cared for or looked after. With the dramatic rise in crime that we are seeing in King County, this is the wrong message to send. As the presence of graffiti increases in our communities, we need to take steps to remove and prevent it, and, in turn, keep our neighborhoods clean and safe.”

July 21, 2022
Dunn proposes whistleblower reporting system to uncover COVID-19 relief fraud
COVID-19 funds, in an effort to catch any attempts to scam the system.
“As we are seeing historic increases in inflation, taxpayers are rightly concerned with how their hard-earned dollars are being spent, and elected leaders at all levels should be acting as watchdogs under that same mindset ... It is my hope that with this legislation we will be able to catch bad actors and safeguard the communities that these funds were meant to support.”

July 19, 2022
Amid overdose surge, Council declares fentanyl a public health crisis
“Today we declared fentanyl a public health crisis to sound the alarm that fentanyl is lethal, prevalent on our streets, and tragically claiming the lives of far too many people — children, parents, brothers, and sisters — here in King County. With today’s action, we forge a path to fight harder against the deadly substance and stop so many from dying of fatal overdoses. My heart continues to go out to each and every person who has lost a loved one to fentanyl, and I’m grateful to my colleagues for their support in passing this important measure.”

July 15, 2022
Dunn Proposes New Community-Led Program to Monitor, Prevent Crime
“As folks start to see crime increase, this pilot program would give them the opportunity to work with the Sheriff’s Office to take the lead on preventing crime in their neighborhoods. In addition to allowing communities to participate in their safety and build relationships with local law enforcement, this would be an inexpensive effort that has already been proven to be effective in lowering crime.”

July 14, 2022
Dunn on new 988 suicide and crisis lifeline: ‘Important progress’ on improving access to mental health, substance use treatment
“Declining mental health and the rise of substance use is one of the most urgent issues of our time, and it’s critical that we work to improve access to help for folks in the moments that they need it most. This is why I am proud to have advocated for the launch of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline here in King County and across Washington State..."

July 12, 2022
Dunn introduces plan to increase awareness, enforcement of new state law to fight surge in catalytic converter thefts
“The recent surge in thefts targeting catalytic converters hurts everyone, but most of all those who rely on having a functioning vehicle to get to work and provide for their families. The rise of catalytic converter thefts we’re seeing across King County is completely unprecedented and will only continue to increase without cracking down on those responsible and making it harder to profit off of the crime.”

June 28, 2022
Dunn seeks to clear notorious homeless encampment along the Green River
“The conditions we are seeing at the Green River encampment are deplorable and inhumane ... This is no way for anyone to live, and certainly not fair to the surrounding community that deserves a neighborhood that is safe and clean. To make progress, we must start setting boundaries on what is acceptable, address the root causes of homelessness head on and get folks into shelters and into treatment. This legislation gives us the opportunity to learn the best way to do that.”

June 23, 2022
Following human trafficking incident, Dunn proposes more rigorous oversight of King County massage parlors
“This case highlights the fact that human trafficking often occurs in plain sight and goes undetected without intervention. So much about our understanding of the nature of human trafficking has evolved in recent years, so it could be very fruitful to take a look at King County’s decades-old regulations and look for ways that they can be used more effectively to prevent instances of trafficking.” 

June 9, 2022
Dunn introduces legislation to fix failed state policing laws around vehicular pursuits
“The State Legislature made a bad policy decision, and communities across Washington are having to deal with the very real and dangerous consequences. It would be irresponsible to sit back and give active criminals the option to simply ignore law enforcement stops. King County must begin conversations at the state level about how we can fix this failed law for the safety and protection of everyday, law-abiding folks.”

June 2, 2022
Dunn Proposes Mapping, Removal of Unsanctioned Homeless Encampments in King County
“Allowing homeless encampments in our communities is not only detrimental to those who live, work, or recreate nearby–it's also not what is best for those who are left living on the streets instead of being connected with services that can help get their lives back on track,” said Dunn. 

May 26, 2022
Dunn introduces legislation tasking King County with procuring formula for residents in need
“King County is seeing empty shelves where formula used to be. We need to do everything we can to get formula into the hands of families with babies in need. It is my hope that by acting quickly and proactively, we can begin to alleviate the shortage before it gets any worse than it already is.”

May 25, 2022
Dunn opposes sewage fee increase, asks for fiscal discipline from County government
“As the Chair of the Regional Water Quality Committee, I have heard many concerns from city leaders across the County about the financial burden this rate increase, and impending rate increases, will present for their residents. With rising inflation, fuel prices, and the possibility of a recession on the horizon, families across King County are already having to operate on leaner budgets. King County government should be doing the same rather than asking our residents to dig deeper and make do with less.”

May 24, 2022
Dunn proposes integrated data dashboard to provide clarity, transparency on soaring crime rates
“Communities across King County are exhausted and alarmed by the continuing rise in crime and deserve greater transparency about both the nature of the crimes being committed and their government’s response... This revamped data dashboard would present crime data clearly and concisely, while allowing folks to identify relevant patterns such as repeat offenders that are revolving through the justice system.”

May 23, 2022
Reagan Dunn honors Enumclaw Thunder Dome Car Museum for work on behalf of epilepsy research, education
On Saturday, King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn presented a recognition to Kari and Troy Thomas, owners of the Enumclaw Thunder Dome Car Museum, for their philanthropy on behalf of the Epilepsy Foundation Washington and contributions to epilepsy research and awareness. 

May 20, 2022
Former Elected Drainage Official Found Guilty of Stealing Nearly Half a Million Dollars – Statement from Reagan Dunn
“Though it was disheartening to see Drainage District 5 taxpayers betrayed through this blatant theft of public funds, I am glad to see the truth come to light and the guilty parties being held accountable for their actions. My deep gratitude goes out to our local law enforcement, including the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and Enumclaw Police Department for investigating this case and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for bringing it to justice.

May 19, 2022
Dunn: King County proposed property tax increase ‘tone deaf’ against incredibly high cost of living facing families
“We cannot again raise taxes on King County residents who are already struggling to make ends meet. A new property tax in particular would raise costs for homeowners and renters alike, even as so many are more vulnerable than ever to losing their housing..."

May 17, 2022
Council approves creation of Cannabis Safety Taskforce
“A dedicated Cannabis Safety Taskforce will be able to focus on keeping our local communities safe from the pattern of armed robberies targeting cannabis stores and manufacturers across the region. This legislation sends a strong message that King County plans to hold those committing these crimes responsible for their actions. I could not be more proud of this bipartisan legislation and am grateful to my colleagues for their support.”

May 12, 2022
King County’s 2nd Annual Conference on Substance Use Disorders to provide education, hope amid rise in overdose deaths
“The more I talk about my own past struggles with alcohol use, the more I hear from others who have experience, or are experiencing, those same struggles. That’s why part of the goal of this conference is to reduce the stigma around seeking out help — I’ve found it’s important to be open and vulnerable, because this is something that helps others in their own recovery journey.”

May 10, 2022
Dunn leads Council in recognition of law enforcement service, sacrifice during National Police Week
“Every time I pass the memorial that rightfully honors our fallen King County deputies, I am reminded of their ultimate and enduring sacrifice,” said Sheriff Patti Cole-Tindall.  “It is a privilege to lead the men and women of this agency as they continue a tradition of excellence in service to communities throughout King County.”

May 10, 2022
Dunn: King County must stop firing unvaccinated deputies, focus on retention
“We can still fight COVID-19 while also fighting rising crime in our communities — but it starts with putting a stop to the practice of firing our unvaccinated deputies, who we desperately need to retain right now to maintain basic public safety services.” 

May 9, 2022
Dunn: Controversial Plan to Merge King County and National Elections Would Bury Local Issues, Infuse Partisanship
“Aligning our local races with national politics would allow hot-button federal issues to eclipse the local issues that have so much impact on our daily lives. Those nuts-and-bolts issues—such as homelessness, land use, crime, and transportation—deserve our attention in their own right, and independent of the partisanship that taints national politics.”

May 4, 2022
Dunn donates surplus County vans to southeast King County organizations
“These agencies in the Enumclaw and Black Diamond area provide invaluable services to seniors and special education students in our rural communities. It is an honor to be able to direct these retired vans their way to support their important work.” 

May 3, 2022
Dunn’s Cannabis Safety Taskforce passes major hurdle, heads to full Council for a final vote
“Elected leaders need to take swift action now to protect our communities and businesses by preventing the targeting of the cannabis industry by criminals. I could not be more pleased that my colleagues passed this important legislation today,” Dunn said.

May 3, 2022
Dunn applauds nomination of Patti Cole-Tindall for King County Sheriff
“Patti Cole-Tindall has deep roots in King County and invaluable knowledge of our challenges and unique dynamics, and importantly, has been able to build consensus and boost morale during her tenure as interim Sheriff."

April 27, 2022
Dunn: Sound Transit proposal would ‘effectively gut meaningful fare enforcement’
“This latest change of fare enforcement policies would effectively gut meaningful fare enforcement. By greatly reducing any real consequences of fare evasion such as fines, and leaning more heavily on warnings, while removing any ability to suspend riders for chronic non-payment, these policies make fare payment optional for riding transit..."

April 21, 2022
Dunn renews effort to establish hate crime reporting system to bridge gap in reporting
“While crimes motivated by hate and bias have surged to record-setting levels across King County, they are still known to be underreported. A dedicated reporting system would increase access to justice for all communities by providing a direct avenue for reporting incidents of hate crimes."

April 19, 2022
King County Council unanimously votes to support Ukraine
“There are times that call for unity, and this is one of those times. I am proud of the King County Council for coming together today to stand with Ukraine as they fight for their freedom—not only through our words, but through our actions as we seek out all possible opportunities to give support the Ukrainian people.”

April 14, 2022
Dunn: Controversial asphalt plant will have ‘harmful ramifications for generations to come’
“After fighting against the impending asphalt plant for years, I am extremely disappointed and, frankly, greatly troubled by the Permitting Division’s decision today to allow it to move forward...This is shockingly poor land use policy that, I fear, will have harmful ramifications for generations to come.”

April 12, 2022
Dunn Proposes Crime and Public Safety Summit to ‘Carve a Path Out of the Quagmire’
“This summit is about bringing all players in our regional justice system to one table to work through fundamental disagreements related to policing and jail policy. Frankly, as it stands, the various aspects that make up this system—our elected leaders, police, jails, and courts—are not functioning coherently with each other, and it’s the everyday folks who are suffering the repercussions. It's time to come together to carve a path out of the quagmire and get back to providing for basic public safety.”

April 6, 2022
King County legislation to support Ukraine passes committee with unanimous approval
“As the situation continues to devolve in Ukraine, it remains imperative that we persist against Vladimir Putin’s intolerable threat to democracy. I am grateful for the way we are coming together here at King County to make sure we are doing everything we can to help the Ukrainian people as they fight for their freedom and their lives.”

April 5, 2022
Following double-digit increases in rental housing costs, Councilmember Reagan Dunn proposes study on the effects of regulation on rental market in King County
“My fear is that the slate of recent government interventions purported to help renters is actually hurting them by exacerbating our lack of affordable rental housing. This study would help policymakers understand the effects that these regulations have on housing market dynamics, and on the folks who rely on a healthy supply of rental properties.’

March 31, 2022
Public Safety Emerges as Top Community Concern as King County Councilmember Dunn Wraps Up First Town Halls of 2022
“Overwhelmingly, I heard that our communities need more investments dedicated to building up our law enforcement and to keeping public spaces safe, clean, and accessible to all. I remain focused on these issues and will continue to work to provide support to our police and homelessness response.’

March 29, 2022
Dunn proposes taskforce following string of robberies, shootings involving marijuana stores
“There is a perception that marijuana shops are easy targets because they are known operate on an all-cash basis. This has resulted in very dangerous situations that have quickly escalated and have resulted in deaths. Like so many other areas of our criminal justice system, we need to be sending the message that this type of lawlessness will not be tolerated and give our law enforcement the support they need to apprehend those responsible. Letting these brazen crimes continue is not an option — we must act for the safety of our communities, before more lives are lost.’

March 23, 2022
Dunn demands answers on leaked proposal mandating a public defender be appointed before every simple consent search by police
“If police are required to call a defense attorney every time they talk to a subject, criminal investigation would grind to a halt. Our already strained Sheriff’s Office will be stretched thinner, impacting deputy availability and response time. This would take away hundreds of hours of deputy time where they are not responding to other calls . . . "

March 22, 2022
Councilmembers Dunn, Kohl-Welles lead Council in recognizing National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week
“Especially with the rise we are seeing in substance use during the pandemic, our communities need to be active in ensuring the next generation is fully educated on the dangers of abusing drugs and alcohol. I could not be prouder of the work we have done here in King County to raise awareness of this issue, and I know we will continue to see this work through and do what we can to help those who need it to find treatment.”

March 3, 2022
Dunn proposes new measures to combat skyrocketing catalytic converter thefts in King County
“Over 1,400 catalytic converters — a shocking number — were stolen from King County residents’ cars last year. This is a crime that directly impacts everyday folks who rely on their vehicle to get to work and take care of their families, and we must do more to stop it.”

March 1, 2022
Councilmembers Dunn and Dembowski introduce legislation to provide County support to Ukraine
“The unprovoked attack and invasion by Vladimir Putin happening in Ukraine right now is unacceptable and we must do all we can to give our support to the Ukrainian people and government. Through this legislation, we are showing King County residents, including those with families in Ukraine, the Ukrainian people, and those fighting off Russian military forces, that we stand with them and strongly against the aggressions against democracy happening right now.” 

February 22, 2022
Dunn pleads with King County to stop firing unvaccinated Sheriff’s deputies during a time of record murders and shootings
“We are currently in the midst of a public safety crisis and are desperate to hire more deputies as violent crime surges and communities across King County suffer under a shortage of law enforcement services. Currently, there are 106 vacant deputy positions, in part because of the termination of those who remain unvaccinated. I cannot remember a time when the Sheriff’s Office has seen such significant staffing shortages, all happening with a backdrop of record murders and violent crime occurring right now in King County.”

February 17, 2022
“It’s long overdue” – Dunn Issues Statement in Response to Masking Update, Calls on King County To Do the Same
“Lifting the mask mandate is what’s best for our community and long overdue. Our leaders must acknowledge the fact that fatigue and burnout over government mandates is high, and relying on forceful directives without the support of the public will be counterproductive in the long run for our recovery from COVID-19.”

February 15, 2022
As critical fentanyl classification nears expiration, Dunn calls on DEA for permanent fix
“I urge the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to permanently classify fentanyl as a schedule 1 drug. By doing so, the DEA will ensure that local law enforcement has the maximum resources to fight the spread of fentanyl across our borders and into our local communities, including King County.”

February 1, 2022
Dunn calls proposal to stop booking into jail for certain crimes ‘absolutely negligent’
“With COVID-19 death rates steadily dropping across King County and criminal violence off the charts, it is absolutely negligent to use the pandemic as an excuse to release dangerous offenders from our jails and to suspend the prosecution of crimes..."

January 28, 2022
Dunn, Warnick partner on bill to help parents in recovery reconnect with their children
"This bill is about doing what is best for families who have been broken by addiction. Recovery from substance use disorder is always possible, and providing parents with a clear path to earning their way back to their kids someday can not only be a motivating factor for the parents — but also a way to bring healing to the children who have had their lives turned upside down by addiction.”

January 21, 2022
Dunn pushes for refunds for Republic Services customers left without pick-ups for weeks
“It’s simply unreasonable to expect people to go a month without having any trash collected whatsoever, and on top of that, to still ask them to cover the bill. Garbage collection is an essential public service, and the impacted households should not be expected to bear the full financial burden of this service lapse.”

January 18, 2022
Dunn proposes pause to highly controversial criminal diversion program after outcry from local mayors
“All crimes that hurt the safety of our communities — such as shoplifting rings, home burglaries, and car thefts — need to be taken seriously so that folks are not re-victimized and the security of our neighborhoods is preserved. In particular, it is shockingly irresponsible to remove legal consequences for any firearm-related crime at a time when gun violence is surging to an all-time high. There should be real ramifications — including prosecution — for these dangerous crimes.”

January 3, 2022
Bella, Luna Top List of 2021’s Most Popular Pet Names in King County
“Licensing your pet provides a level of assurance that if your beloved dog or cat ever becomes lost, you will have a helping hand to get them back home. In addition, the licensing fees covers the many humane services that RASKC provides, including investigation of animal cruelty and adoption services—so you know your dollars will go to help not only your own pet, but many others.”