Councilmember Dunn turns over “retired” County van to Maple Valley Community Center

October 3, 2012

Summary

11 passenger van ready for second “career” of transporting county residents

Story

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn’s office today handed over the keys to the Maple Valley Community Center to their new van. The transfer came just in time for an upcoming even in which they will use it later this week.

“Since 1976, the Greater Maple Valley Community Center has provided important services to the citizens in and around Maple Valley,” said Councilmember Reagan Dunn. “I am very happy to work with the Community Center and hand over this great looking van to this worthy organization. This van will undoubtedly help them better serve our community.”

“The Greater Maple Valley Community Center would like to extend our sincere gratitude for your efforts in securing a retired 11 passenger van for our Youth Program,” said Allison Scott, Senior Program Director. “This larger vehicle will allow our staff to transport more teens to prevention programs, teen trips and other outreach events. Our status as a 501(c)(3) places us in a position to depend on wonderful programs such as this and continued support of representatives such as you in helping us to meet the needs of our community. Thank you Mr. Dunn for your continued support.”

Last month, the County Council unanimously approved sending more than two dozen King County “retirees” to second careers of helping transport county residents. The Council adopted a motion donating 27 retired Metro Vanpool vans to provide transportation assistance to local governments, community programs, senior citizens and young people.

The retired vans have been part of Metro Transit’s vanpool fleet for at least six years and have reached the end of their service life. When the vans reach this age, they are considered surplus. The vehicles that are not donated are sold.

Since 1995, the County Council has been donating retired vans from Metro’s Vanpool program to local nonprofit organizations to provide transportation for the disabled, low-income, young adults, and senior citizens. Interested organizations can contact Councilmember Dunn for more information on applying for a vehicle.