Council provides for more accountability in allocation of dedicated funding for historic preservation

June 29, 2009

Summary

Advisory task force will make recommendations on funding from the document recording fee

Story

Greater accountability and transparency in the allocation of dedicated funding for historic preservation and historical programs in King County will be provided by an advisory task force established today by the Metropolitan King County Council.

“By drawing on the experience and expertise of key stakeholders, the task force will give the Council a clear picture of preservation and heritage issues in King County so that we can make an informed decision on how to efficiently and effectively use these dedicated funds,” said Councilmember Bob Ferguson.

“Preserving our King County heritage is an important gift for future generations,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips. “I look forward to hearing recommendations from key stakeholders on the best way to go about our historical preservation efforts.”

The King County Historic Preservation and Programs Advisory Task Force will consist of eight members representing stakeholders in the preservation and heritage community in King County. Among the members will be representatives from the King County Landmarks Commission, 4Culture, the Association of King County Historical Organizations, the City of Seattle’s preservation program, and a city that contracts with King County for historic preservation services. The remaining three members will be chosen by the other five to enhance the diversity of perspectives and experiences represented on the task force.

The State Legislature in 2005 created a dedicated funding source for historic preservation by increasing the fee for recording documents with the County from two dollars to five dollars, with one dollar deposited in the County’s general fund for the sole use of promoting historic preservation or historical programs.

Over $1.7 million has been generated since the new fee went into effect in mid-2005, benefiting preservation and heritage organizations and programs operating in King County. The Council’s creation of the task force will provide greater transparency and accountability in the distribution of those dedicated funds, as recommended by the King County Auditor in a recent compliance audit.