Unincorporated Area Community News - King County Local Services


*October 2024*




*Local Services*

Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River area residents joined county staffers to kick off subarea planning effort
Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River Subarea Planning kickoff

"Photo: participants put stickers on a map to show areas that are important to them at the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River subarea planning open house."

Residents in the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River subarea are one step closer to documenting a long-term vision for their area. On September 26, the King County Local Services planning team held an open house to kick off a two-year process that will end in the creation of a 20-year Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River Subarea Plan.

More than 120 people showed up at the Hobart Community Church to learn about the plan and talk about their values, priorities, and concerns. Subjects included housing and human services, transportation, parks, open space, cultural resources, the environment, services and utilities, economic development, and land use and zoning. All of these elements play a role in the character and development of a community. The goal of the subarea plan is to make real, equitable improvements to quality of life for everyone who lives, works, and plays in the area.

Learn more, take a survey to share your thoughts, and/or subscribe to get updates on the community engagement website [ [link removed] ].

See more photos on this blog post about the open house [ [link removed] ].

If you have questions or would like to organize a meeting about the subarea plan, send email to [email protected] or call 206-477-3800.




Participatory Budgeting
Participatory Budgeting: urban unincorporated communities will vote this month to decide which projects to fund

If you live in one of the unincorporated urban communities listed below, it's time to vote on which proposals you would like to fund to make your area a better place to live and thrive.

► East Federal Way
► East Renton
► Fairwood
► North Highline/White Center
► Skyway/West Hill

Voting in each community will be open *October 5-31.* Community members can vote online or at in-person pop-up voting events that will be held throughout the month in each community. Find a link to your online ballot and a list of voting events in your area on the Participatory Budgeting public engagement site [ [link removed] ]. If you have questions, email Program Manager Gloria Briggs <[email protected]>.



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*Road Services*

Resurfacing and repairs give county roads new life
Night paving work on Novelty Hill Road

"Photo: a crew works at night on a section of NE Novelty Hill Road."

This summer and fall, King County Road Services paved and resurfaced sections of roads in 13 places around unincorporated King County. Some of the work, like that shown above, took place at night to avoid impacts on busy daytime traffic. Resurfacing roads does more than making them more comfortable for travelers—it also helps them last longer and reduces maintenance costs.

To see a map and list of 2024 projects, visit the county's road resurfacing projects website [ [link removed] ].

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*Need help at King County? **We're here for you.*

How to get help

Do you have a question about King County services or programs, but aren't sure which agency or office to contact?

Two of King County’s True North Values [ [link removed] ] are solving problems and focusing on the customer. But with the county's many departments, divisions, and programs, navigating to the right resource can sometimes be a challenge.

If you're in unincorporated King County, you can reach out to the *Department of Local Services* by email ([email protected]) or phone (206-477-3800), or visit one of their Community Liaisons during Community Office Hours [ [link removed] ] near you. Even if your question is related to another King County agency, Local Services will be glad to help you find the right person or agency to respond.

And there's another way for anyone—in any part of the county—to reach out for help. The county's *Executive Customer Service Team* has a simple Contact Us form [ [link removed] ] on the King County website that you can use to ask a question, make a complaint, compliment someone for a job well done, and more (there's an "other" category). The page with the form also lists phone numbers you can call or text for assistance. But please don't attach pictures to your text or email—the system can't accept them.



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*Natural Resources and Parks*

Sign language
Help build an ASL glossary of clean water terms

King County Stormwater Services will be at the DeafNation Expo at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall on Saturday, October 19 to build a glossary of clean water terms in American Sign Language.

There will be a kickoff sing and sign-along performance at 10:30 on climate and connection with ASL singer and performer Brandon Karen-Maddox [ [link removed] ].

Register for a free ticket [ [link removed] ]



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*Animal services*

Reminder to license your pets

License pets to get them back home

King County pet licenses are required for all dogs and cats eight weeks of age or older living in the Regional Animal Services coverage area. Licensing your pets helps you and your pets, by making it easier to reunite if they go missing and keeping them out of the shelter.

Last year, 808 lost pets brought to the RASKC shelter were safely returned to their owners. Another 831 lost pets wearing licenses were returned home by finders who called the RASKC 24-hour phone system.

Pet license fees support the care RASKC provides for more than 5,000 animals a year that come into the shelter. They also fund field work that protects people and pets in the community.

You can license online [ [link removed] ], or in person at hundreds of locations [ [link removed] ] across King County. For more information, call RASKC at 206-296-2712, visit their website [ [link removed] ], or email [email protected].



“Fall” in love with $50 dog adoptions in October

Last month, more than 400 pets—including 105 adult and senior cats, 213 kittens, 84 adult dogs, 10 puppies, and five small mammals—found their “furever” homes during Regional Animal Services' participation in the nationwide “Clear the Shelters” campaign. But there are still more pets waiting for adoption!

As leaves change color and the weather turns cooler, you might be thinking about cuddling with a warm pup. All this month, you can adopt a dog for just $50, plus a pet license fee where applicable.

All pets from RASKC have had an initial veterinary exam, are up to date on their vaccinations, have been spayed or neutered, and are microchipped. Adopters get 30 days of opt-in pet health insurance through Trupanion, among other benefits. And dog adoptions come with a lifetime discount on online training from GoodPup.

If a cat tickles your fancy, they're available to adopt for a fee of just $30, and kittens are $100. Adoption fees for pets like rabbits and other small mammals vary based on breed and age.

The King County Pet Adoption Center is at 21615 64th Avenue S in Kent. Adoption hours are noon to 5 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 4 p.m. on weekends. You can see all the pets available for adoption at kingcounty.gov/AdoptAPet [ [link removed] ].



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*Emergency preparedness*

Start preparing for flood season (October to April)

Flooded street on Vashon Island

Flooding is the most common natural disaster in King County. Even minor flooding can close roads and require costly cleanup and repairs. Here’s how you can prepare and keep yourself and your property safe this flood season.

► Learn the flood risk for where you live, work, or commute by entering any address at gov/FloodMap [ [link removed] ].

► Buy flood insurance. Standard homeowner or renter insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. Contact floodplain managers Laura Hendrix or Ken Zweig at 206-477-4727 with questions or visit floodsmart.gov [ [link removed] ] to learn more and find an insurance agent.

► Build an emergency kit. Include a flashlight, radio, water, medical necessities, and supplies for children or pets. Visit makeitthrough.com [ [link removed] ] to find information on preparing for any disaster.

► Move hazardous chemicals out of flood-prone areas or dispose of them at one of the county’s [ [link removed] ]hazardous waste sites [ [link removed] ]. This keeps chemicals that can harm people and the environment out of the water.

► Clear storm drains and gutters of fallen leaves and other debris to prevent flooding. Get help using “Report a Problem” at kingcounty.gov/Stormwater [ [link removed] ].

► Before you build or make a repair in a flood-prone area, make sure you have the required permits [ [link removed] ]. This makes flood-prone areas less dangerous for all who live and work there.

Stay up to date with the latest news about flood mitigation projects on the King County Flood Control District blog [ [link removed] ].



King County has improved its web-based flood warning app

Flood warning app

Stay informed during flooding events with King County’s new Flood Warning App. The upgraded website provides real-time, reliable information about river levels and flood phases for seven rivers and Issaquah Creek in King County. Staying informed gives you more time to act if necessary.

Find the app—plus information on how to create a safety plan—at kingcounty.gov/flood [ [link removed] ].



Join in the world's largest earthquake drill on October 17

Shake Out

Washington has the second highest earthquake risk in the United States. Do you know how you will react when the earth shakes? Drop, cover, and hold on until the shaking stops. Practice it wherever you are on October 17 at 10:17 a.m. and join in the world’s biggest earthquake drill. Register for the Great Shake Out and learn more at ShakeOut.org/Washington [ [link removed] ]_._ 

Other preparedness steps you can take right now include:  

*1. Create an Emergency Plan: *Discuss with your family how you'll stay in touch and what steps to take if evacuation becomes necessary, especially if you spend time in or near a tsunami area.

*2. Build an Emergency Kit:* Stock up on two weeks of essential supplies [ [link removed] ] so you’re ready for any situation that arises.  

*3. Stay informed: *Sign up for emergency alerts by visiting gov/Alert [ [link removed] ]. 

Stay prepared, stay safe! Visit KingCounty.gov/Prepare [ [link removed] ].



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*Property taxes*

Property tax
*Property taxes are due October 31*

Do you pay your property taxes [ [link removed] ] directly, instead of through a mortgage lender? The deadline for payment of the second half is Thursday, October 31. Late fees will apply after that date. To review current amounts due, please use King County's safe and secure online eCommerce System [ [link removed] ].

There are several options available to make your payment.

*► Pay online* using the eCommerce system [ [link removed] ]. While there, you can also sign up to receive text or email reminders about tax due dates.

*► Pay by mail:* King County Treasury Operations, 201 S. Jackson Street, Suite 710, Seattle, WA 98104.

*► Pay in person:* King County Customer Service Center, 201 S Jackson Street (see map [ [link removed] ]), Second Floor (East Lobby), in Seattle,. Open 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

*► Pay via secure drop box*, 201 S Jackson Street, Seattle, on the corner of Second Avenue nearer to S Jackson Street (see map [ [link removed] ]), inside the security gates. Open 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. weekdays. As a reminder, *never leave cash in the drop box.*



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*Human services*

System graphic
*How can the behavioral health system better serve communities?*

King County recently released a new online survey to learn how the behavioral health system can better serve communities. The survey is open until October 31. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and is available in 21 languages. Learn more and take the survey [ [link removed] ]



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*Greater Maple Valley news*

**The 26th annual model train show is happening October 19-20**

Model train

The Greater Maple Valley Unincorporated Area Council will hold its 26th Annual Model Train Show at Gracie Hansen Community Center in Ravensdale, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 19 and 10 am to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 20. Suggested donation (sorry, no credit cards) is: $5 for adults and $2 for children age 3-11. There will be operating model trains, trains, and more trains featuring creative operating layouts in most gauges! Attendees can bring their own trains (Lionel / HO / other) to run on club tracks (with approval of participating clubs).

—"Submitted by Peter Rimbos, Corresponding Secretary, Greater Maple Valley Unincorporated Area Council"



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*Skyway news*

Harvest Fest
Skyway Farmers Market and Bazaar

*October 27, 11 a.m .– 2 p.m.*
King County Fire District 20 Administrative Building parking lot (12424 76th Avenue S)

This family-friendly event is free to attend and offers free food and resources, plus artisans, games, a DJ, EBT/SNAP accepting vendors, and more.

Visit the website [ [link removed] ] to learn more and RSVP for this event.



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*White Center news*

Local Services will be at the Rat City Art & Food Walk this month, asking for ideas to improve the White Center business district

Rat City Art &amp; Food Walk

If you go to the Rat City Art & Food Walk in White Center on October 17, stop by the King County Local Services table to share ideas for improving the White Center commercial district.

Suggestions could include better lighting, art, plantings, and more! Your input will be used to create designs and guide future improvements to the area.

The booth will be at 16th Avenue SW and SW 98th Street, and the event goes from 5 to 8+ p.m.



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**Washington State University Extension**

WSU Forestry

 

*WSU Extension learning opportunities for King County forest and woodland owners*

* Puget Sound Forests and Climate Change – A Symposium for Landowners [ [link removed] ] – November 2, 2024, in Renton. Learn from a panel of experts about what's happening with forests and climate, what to expect in the future in the Puget Sound Region, and practical steps you can take to improve the health and resilience of your forest. Cost: $20 per individual or $30 per household. Pre-registration is required.
* Online Forest Stewardship Coached Planning course [ [link removed] ] – starts January 9, 2025. Teaches forest and woodland owners how to assess their trees, avoid insect and disease problems, attract wildlife, reduce wildfire risk, improve climate resilience, and take practical steps to keep their forest on track to provide enjoyment and even income for years to come. Includes coaching in writing your own simple forestry plan that may help otherwise qualifying landowners enroll in conservation cost-share grant programs or current use property tax reductions. There will be an *in-person* field trip from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025 in the King-Snohomish County area. Cost: $150. Pre-registration is required.

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Reminder
Reminder

**► *The Wastemobile is winding up its season!* Bring your old batteries, oil‑based paint, antifreeze, pesticides, and more to the Wastemobile for safe, no‑cost disposal. Check the website for accepted items, quantity limits, and the complete 2024 schedule [ [link removed] ] — which continues through mid-October.



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Community organizations

:: Community Alliance to Reach Out and Engage

Lord of Life Lutheran Church
12819 160th Avenue SE, Renton

See blog [ [link removed] ] for the latest information and to confirm meetings.

:: Enumclaw Plateau Community Association

Third Tuesdays at 6 p.m.
Muckleshoot Library (King County Library branch)
39917 Auburn Enumclaw Road SE, Auburn

Monthly board meetings are open to the public, and often feature guest speakers in addition to community reports and information from a variety of local organizations. For more information email Nancy Merrill <[email protected]>.

:: Fall City Community Association

First Tuesdays – Hybrid meeting (virtual and in-person, 7-8:30 p.m.)
Fall City Fire Department meeting room
4301 334th Place SE, Fall City

The Fall City Community Association promotes building of community, proactively communicates on local issues, and takes action on selected issues that affect the Fall City community. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month, and are open to the public. For more information, visit fallcity.org [ [link removed] ] or email send email <[email protected]>. 

:: Four Creeks Unincorporated Area Council

Second Tuesdays – Virtual meeting via Zoom 

Visit the website [ [link removed] ] for the latest information and to confirm meeting dates and locations.

:: Greater Maple Valley Unincorporated Area Council

Monday, October 7, 7-9:30 p.m. – in person or via Zoom
Maple Valley Fire Station
22225 SE 231st Street (across from King County Sheriff’s Precinct #3)

Guest speaker will be Leon Richardson, new Director of the King County Department of Local Services. As one of the Rural Area’s main local government providers, Local Services is has two divisions—Permitting and Road Services. Topics will include issues and potential solutions related to each division. Visit the website [ [link removed] ] for meeting agendas and Zoom information, which are posted a few days before each meeting.

*:: Green Valley/Lake Holm Association*

The Green Valley/Lake Holm Association advocates for those who live in unincorporated southeast King County. Primary goals are to maintain the community’s unique historic, agricultural, and rural character; protect the environment; and sustain quality of life in the area. They engage regularly with local government agencies to address concerns and influence policies on topics of mutual interest, such as growth and development, transportation, public safety, and flood control. Stay connected by visiting their Facebook page [ [link removed] ].

:: North Highline Unincorporated Area Council

Monthly board meetings are open to the public and often feature guest speakers in addition to community reports and information from local organizations. For more information, email Liz Giba <[email protected]>.

:: Skyway Business Collective

The Skyway Business Collective aims to drive economic growth for entrepreneurs and small business owners living or working in Skyway, and to create a supportive and inclusive space for  small businesses to grow, connect, and thrive through *free professional services* tailored to the business's needs. Learn more at www.skywaybusinesscollective.org [ [link removed] ]

:: Skyway Coalition

See the coalition's website [ [link removed] ].

:: Skywest Tool Library

Working to start a new tool library in Skyway. The purpose of the library will be to share ideas, teach, learn, and borrow tools and more. To learn more, email [email protected]. 

*:: Upper Bear Creek Community Council*

For information about the council, call Nancy Stafford at 425-788-5841 or visit the Facebook page [ [link removed] ] and/or website [ [link removed] ]. (Note: both the Facebook page and the website are currently being updated.)

*:: Vashon Chamber of Commerce*

Send email <[email protected]> or [ [link removed] ]visit the website [ [link removed] ].

:: Vashon-Maury Community Council

Meetings are open to all and are held on the third Thursday of each month, both online and in-person. Topics include affordable housing, ferries, election candidates, transportation, aviation noise, and more. The council sets up committees and passes resolutions to King County and other organizations as needed. Voting membership is free and open to residents 18 and older. To learn more, visit the website [ [link removed] ].

:: West Hill Community Association

Meetings are in person or via Zoom [ [link removed] ]
Skyway Fire District 20 Admin Building
12424 76th Avenue S, Seattle

Monthly board meetings are open to the public, and often feature guest speakers in addition to community reports and information from a variety of local organizations. For more information, send email <[email protected]> or visit the website [ [link removed] ] <[email protected]>.

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"Unincorporated Area Community News" is published monthly by the King County Department of Local Services. To subscribe, visit our website [ [link removed] ]. Please direct questions or comments to Anna Clemenger, ([email protected] or 206-477-3839).

*Contact King County Local Services*

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 206-477-3800 (Relay 711)
Website: kingcounty.gov/local-services [ [link removed] ]

"Para solicitar esta información en Español, sírvase llamar al 206-477-3800
""o envíe un mensaje de correo electrónico a [email protected]"

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