County Council, Port Commissioners discuss opportunities to strengthen regional collaboration

June 18, 2012

Summary

Pledge to explore partnerships part of historic meeting between governments

Story

In what was called “an opening act” to an era of increased cooperation, the Metropolitan King County Council and the Commissioner from the Port of Seattle today spoke for the need of regional collaboration in bolstering the Puget Sound economy, an effort that will benefit all of its residents.

“Today is an historic occasion for which I say: ‘it’s about time,’” said Council Vice Chair Jane Hague, Chair of the Council’s Committee of the Whole. “In our increasingly complex economy and society, I think it’s more important than ever that our bodies talk together and coordinate our efforts.”

The County Council’s Committee of the Whole hosted the joint meeting of the two governments, the first meeting between the full Council and the Commissioners in recent memory.

"The next 25 years offer so much opportunity for King County, so let's be smart and strategic in the economic and environmental decisions we make today," said Commission President Gael Tarleton.

Councilmembers and Commissioners received briefings on the recently implemented strategic plans of both governments: the County’s Strategic Plan and the Port’s Century Agenda. They also heard from panels discussing on Economic Development and International Trade, issues of importance to both bodies. The briefings and panels were an opportunity for everyone to discuss ways to strengthen partnerships between the two governments to help spur economic growth.

The Council and Port Commissioners also adopted a joint agreement calling for strengthening bonds between King County and the Port by seeking opportunities to:

• Form joint state and federal legislative agendas,
• Partner on environmental initiatives and transportation planning,
• Collaborate on economic development and tourism, including support of strong air, rail and freight industries.

“Today’s joint agreement, symbolized by not only this resolution, but as our meeting together as one, is an important next step toward strengthening regional cooperation between King County and the Port of Seattle,” said Hague.




Members of the County Council are joined by Commissioners from the
Port of Seattle at their historic joint meeting