Citizen comments on King County budget shortfall

[eridani]

This year, the 2009 projected general fund shortfall of approximately $86 million presents a sobering prospect. The general fund of approximately $680 million pays for the day-to-day operations of King County government, including the sheriff, courts, jails, public health clinics, and our elections department. As chair of the council's Operating Budget Committee, I know that it is important to spend your tax dollars wisely and will be working with my colleagues to evaluate our budget options.

In October, the County Executive will transmit his proposed budget to the council for consideration. At that time, the council will comprehensively examine the proposal and make appropriate changes to ensure that the budget reflects the priorities of King County citizens. Before last month’s recess, the council adopted public safety, health, and quality of life for King County residents as the top priorities for the council’s 2009 budget deliberations.

The council will host public hearings on the County Executive’s proposed budget. This is your opportunity to express your opinion regarding the proposed budget, and I encourage your involvement. The hearings will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) on the following days:

· Tuesday, October 14, 2008 – Pacific Cascade Freshman Campus, 24635 Southeast Issaquah Fall City Road, Issaquah

· Thursday, October 16, 2008 – Maleng Regional Justice Center, Courtroom 3F, 401 4th Avenue North, Kent

· Tuesday, October 21, 2008 – Finn Hill Junior High School, 8040 Northeast 132nd Street, Kirkland

· Thursday, October 23, 2008 – Shoreline Conference Center, Shoreline Room, 18560 1st Avenue Northeast, Shoreline

· Tuesday, October 28, 2008 – King County Council Chambers, 516 Third Avenue, Room 1200, Seattle

· Monday, November 10, 2008 – King County Council Chambers, 516 Third Avenue, Room 1200, Seattle, starting at 1:30 p.m.



District One residents who have an interest in public service and raising awareness around civil rights issues are encouraged to apply for a vacancy on the King County Civil Rights Commission.

http://www.metrokc.gov/DIAS/CRC/

The Civil Rights Commission works in collaboration with community, business, civic, and religious groups to advise the County Council and County Executive on matters related to civil rights. Potential candidates should have interest and experience related to the goals of the commission, and the ability to commit 8-10 hours a month for meetings and projects. If selected by the County Council, commission members serve three-year terms. For more information, please contact Paula Harris-White at Paula.Harris-White {at} kingcounty.gov.