County Council adopts jail agreement with Seattle
Contract extension prevents need for new municipal jail, saves taxpayer resources

Council’s Budget Leadership Team prepares to tackle realistic 2012 Budget that continues reform of County Government
Members enter budget deliberations facing challenges from continuing recession

Ballard Siphon upgrade benefits from cost-saving low-interest loan
Low-interest loans would save King County an estimated $14.1 million in interest

Shedding “light” on green energy: Council calls on Executive to explore opportunities in community solar programs
Creating a model for collaboration between county, communities

Council adopts plan to accelerate opportunities for small businesses to work with County
Proposal creates procurement pool for certified small contractors and suppliers

Phillips applauds King County employees, innovative health program for reducing costs
County employees partnered to save $38 million in health benefits costs in 2012

Council Budget Committee to hold three special meetings on 2012 King County Budget
Meetings in Issaquah, Kent and Seattle opportunity to provide input on Executive Proposed Budget

Council adopts new payment schedule for road fees
Business-friendly change preserves funding for local transportation projects

Councilmember Patterson urges Council support of federal efforts to reduce oil price speculation
Controlling speculation step toward preventing artificial manipulation of oil prices

County Council recognizes 125th anniversary of King County Bar Association
Members cite Association’s commitment to social justice

County Council appoints first director of the Office of Law Enforcement Oversight
Office will provide enhanced oversight over King County Sheriff’s Department

Ferguson secures retired Metro vans to benefit kids
Vans will increase access to recreational and educational programs for children in Seattle and North King County

Ferguson: “Grateful for diligent effort of law enforcement to protect our communities”

County Council establishes Veterans Treatment Court
Therapeutic model will address unique circumstances of war trauma, connect troubled veterans to services

Phillips sponsors donating retired county vans to community organizations in Queen Anne, Magnolia, and Phinney
Vans will be put to new use transporting elders, youth, and meals to those in need

Council expresses support for new home for The Center for Wooden Boats at Metro Transit site on North Lake Union
Location would open up public access to north end of Lake Union

County Council adopts solid waste fees that include funds for long-term upgrades to regional system
Extending life of facilities while providing rates competitive with other municipalities

County vans sent into “working” retirement by Council
Donated vanpool vehicles will provide transportation options to organizations throughout King County

Ferguson: County wisely invests emergency criminal justice reserves to address gang violence