King County’s Wastewater Treatment Division (WTD) is developing a Clean Water Plan (CWP) which will replace the County’s existing Regional Wastewater Services Plan, guide billions in investments—primarily in wastewater treatment and management—and have significant implications for utility rates over the next 40 years.

The planning process for the Clean Water Plan is ongoing through 2022. The King County Auditor’s office conducted a review of materials produced as part of the planning process and, in a management letter to King County Council in October 2021, highlighted areas where increased transparency could be beneficial. These areas include regulatory impacts on investment options, project cost information, and goals of the CWP.

The Auditor makes no recommendations at this time but will continue to monitor the Clean Water Planning process and review the final Clean Water Plan.

Audit team

If you have any questions or would like more information, please call the King County Auditor's Office at 206-477-1033 or contact us by email KCAO@kingcounty.gov.