2013 – News about Councilmember Reagan Dunn

December 16, 2013
County Council honors second group of “HERO” graduates
“This HERO Program is now completing its second round of veteran interns and I couldn’t be more pleased with the success of the program. Both the veterans and the County are greatly benefitting from this program.”

December 16, 2013
Colleagues recognize, say goodbye to Councilmember Julia Patterson
“It has been an absolute pleasure to work alongside such a dedicated, passionate public servant. Julia will be unquestionably missed here at the Council and I wish her all the success in the word in any future endeavor she embarks on. I am honored to be able to call her a friend.”

December 9, 2013
Stan McCall sworn in as Commissioner for King County Fire District 28
“With the unanimous selection of Mr. McCall, the Board of Commissioners of KCFD #28 is well positioned to move forward in a collaborative fashion to provide emergency services to the residents it serves.”

December 4, 2013
Panel makes unanimous recommendation for Fire District #28 vacancy
"I appreciate the hard work that the members of the advisory panel put forward to select one of these outstanding candidates."

November 21, 2013
Process to fill vacant Fire Commissioner position in Fire District 28 underway
To fill this vacant position, Metropolitan King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn will convene a five member Citizen Advisory Panel to review applications of potential candidates.

November 12, 2013
District 9 Highlights of 2014 King County Budget
“This budget not only funds the re-opening of the Sheriff's Hicks-Raburn Precinct in South East King County, but also funds eight new sheriff deputy positions. This budget clearly illustrates the importance of the County's role as the provider of law enforcement services to our unincorporated area residents.”

November 12, 2013
Services, stability highlight 2014 King County Budget
“This budget not only funds the re-opening of the Sheriff's Hicks-Raburn Precinct in South East King County, but also funds eight new Sheriff deputy positions. I look forward to voting for a budget that clearly illustrates the importance of the County's role as the provider of law enforcement services to our unincorporated area residents.”

October 28, 2013
County Council approves “Blueprint” for implementing Department of Public Defense
“Our legal system is based on the premise that all defendants in our courts be provided with effective representation. This legislation will help to insure the continued delivery of sound legal representation through our public defense system.”

October 25, 2013
Dunn, Urquhart and Constantine visit proposed Maple Valley Sheriff’s Office Precinct
“This has been a collaborative effort with a single goal: to better serve and protect the residents of Unincorporated King County.”

October 22, 2013
King County Council celebrates Pro Bono Week
“The pro bono work done by attorneys for individuals and families in need are vital to maintaining a fair and just legal system. I am pleased to co-sponsor this proclamation and call attention to this important work.”

October 16, 2013
Councilmember Dunn: Federal shutdown must end
“My constituents want their leaders to work together on a long term vision and a thoughtful plan to move us forward and stop hurting the citizens and children they are supposed to represent.”

October 14, 2013
County Council calls on state Legislature to hold special session to address transportation funding
“In King County, our residents are preparing to bear the impacts of reduced roads and transit funding unless the Legislature provides us with new options.”

October 14, 2013
King County leaders recognize Disability Awareness Month
“King County has always been at the forefront of ensuring the rights of people with disabilities. I am proud to represent a county that looks past the differences in our residents and strives hard to provide equal access and opportunities to all.”

September 23, 2013
Enhancing the safety of region’s waterways: Council approves “BUI” ordinance
“Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts all those using our waterways at risk. This legislation provides the Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit with one more tool to help keep our waters safe for recreational and commercial activities.”

September 23, 2013
Dunn: Efficiencies key to maintaining budget, restoring vital services in SE King County
“As the budget process goes forward, I will work closely with the Council’s Budget Leadership Team and the Executive to ensure we adopt a County Budget that serves the needs of all our residents.”

September 19, 2013
Dunn: Veterans Initiative helps repay the debt we owe to veterans and their families
“I applaud Executive Constantine for including funding for the HERO program and the Veterans Initiative that will be part of his proposed 2014 King County Budget. We owe these men and women a huge debt because of their service to this County. Programs like this are the first step in repaying that debt.”

September 19, 2013
Ensuring that King County’s young people can reach their full potential: County leaders propose Youth Action Plan
“Our youth are the future leaders of King County. Creating a Youth Plan is a sensible approach that will better serve the needs of children throughout the county.”

September 18, 2013
Dunn statement on proposed reopening of Maple Valley sheriff's precinct
“I joined the community served by the precinct in mourning the shuttering of a vital resource and I applaud Sheriff Urquhart for making the reopening of the Hicks-Raburn Precinct one of his top priorities since coming to office.”

September 16, 2013
County Council accepts report outlining King County Sheriff Deputy’s memorial
“Creating this memorial to honor our fallen members of the Sheriff’s Department is the right thing to do. These 16 heroes gave the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of the residents of King County and I’m very thankful this memorial is one step closer to being built.”

September 16, 2013
County Council gives it unanimous approval to the new name for Fire District
“Officially changing the name from Fire District 44 to Mountain View Fire and Rescue has been a long time in coming. Mountain View Fire and Rescue does an outstanding job serving the residents of the district and I am happy to support this legislation per the request of their board of commissioners.”

September 11, 2013
Council Committee accepts report outlining King County Sheriff Deputy’s memorial
“Creating this memorial is long overdue. I am so pleased that we have been able to come up with a plan that will finally recognize these hero’s that gave the ultimate sacrifice on behalf the communities they served.”

September 10, 2013
Council committee sends proposed name change for Fire District 44 to full Council
“The Fire District Board of Commissioners wanted to act in the best interest of the residents they serve. This change will do just that and I fully support the legislation.”

September 9, 2013
County Council approves interlocal agreement between King County and Maple Valley on Summit Pit property
“This legislation paves the way for the residents of Maple Valley to determine future plans for this property in a way that best suits their needs.”

September 9, 2013
Ensuring transportation access for all: Panel recommends development of low-income transit fare
“The advisory committee did important work on this topic. I look forward to reviewing the specifics of this proposal.”

September 6, 2013
Liberty High students celebrate installation of “Patriot Way”
“The students worked hard on this project and I am very pleased to have played a role in assisting them. It was a long process but the student stuck with it and in the end have their new street name and a lasting legacy for the Liberty High Patriots.”

September 5, 2013
County, Enumclaw sign Memorandum of Agreement on White River Tree Farm
“This is an important step in in keeping the White River Forest open to continued recreational use for County residents. I would like to thank Mayor Liz Reynolds and Executive Dow Constantine for their hard work and dedication to work towards keeping the White River Tree Farm open to recreational use.”

August 20, 2013
Community Meal Council, Hobart Blast and Greater Maple Valley Area Council Chosen to receive Community Service Area Grants
“The good work these community groups cannot be overstated. I am very pleased to see this grant money go to such worthy organizations that help strengthen communities and bring people together.”

August 20, 2013
Council Committee supports proposed interlocal agreement between King County and Maple Valley
on Summit Pit property
“This ordinance is a very important step for both the County and the city of Maple Valley. This legislation will give Maple Valley residents the ability to decide what the best use will be for this property, which will help shape the character of this area for years to come.

August 19, 2013
Calhoun Gravel Pit Surplus land sold to Soos Creek Water and Sewer District
“This legislation was a key piece of the puzzle in terms of future development for Covington which will ultimately lead to more jobs in our community. This is a great example of County and City governments working together with the Sewer District to reach a consensus that all stakeholders can build upon.”

August 16, 2013
Community Service Area Grants Awarded to Four Creeks Unincorporated Area Council and Community Alliance to Reach Out/Engage
“The Community Service Area program—and specifically these grants—are a valuable resource for the volunteer activities these community organizations do for our community.”

August 16, 2013
Fairwood Greens and Woodside Home Owners Associations both selected to receive Community Service Area Grants
“Fairwood has a number of very active and community-minded Homeowner Associations that help make the Fairwood area a great place to live. These grants do a great job of bridging the gap between the County and residents that live in unincorporated areas such as Fairwood.”

August 13, 2013
Ravensdale Park project receives huge boost
“This is an important project for the children and families in Southeast King County and I am delighted to assist in seeing this project through to completion. We still have work to be done, but the State grant—along with the work the County and city of Maple Valley are committed to doing—this project will become a reality.”

July 29, 2013
King County Council Appoints Larry Jensen as a Fire District #28 Commissioner
“It was very important we at the Council act and act expediently to fill one of these openings. Mr. Jensen will do a superb job representing the fire District and I am thankful for his willingness to serve.”

July 23, 2013
Dunn testifies in support of Alpine Wilderness Additions and Scenic River Designations
“We will protect rare low level forests, preserve important recreational opportunities, protect wildlife and by designating the Middle Fork Snoqualmie and Pratt Rivers as scenic and/or wild rivers, guarantee clean water and downstream fisheries for generations to come.” 

July 22, 2013
Council accepts plan for integrated health and human service programs
“I would like to thank the panel for all their hard work in crafting these important recommendations.”

July 22, 2013
County Council honors veterans of the “Forgotten War”
“Anniversary’s like the one we are honoring today must never be forgotten. In King County we have a large number of Korean War Veterans and they and their families deserve our reverence and respect for all their sacrifices for this country.”

July 18, 2013
Proposed interlocal agreement between County and Maple Valley on Summit Pit property
“This ordinance is a step in the right direction that will ultimately allow the residents of Maple Valley the ability to chart their own path for the property, may it be a new high school or development that will lead to the creation of new jobs.”

July 16, 2013
Dunn, Sheriff recognize three life-saving heroes
“These heroes saw a problem and immediately jumped into action and as a result lives were saved. Our community is fortunate to have individuals like these in our midst.”

July 11, 2013
Dunn crowns the “King Critter” of the King County Fair
“This event is a great way to celebrate the summer season and a great time for all involved. I am happy to participate in the judging and I congratulate the winner, Snow White and owner Holly Rice. Thank you to everyone that helped make this a great event.”

July 10, 2013
Office of Law Enforcement Oversight presents recommendations stemming from 2012 officer-involved shooting
“It was informative to be able to review the facts of this particular case. I will continue to follow this process as the Sheriff’s office implements new steps to increase transparency and accountability.”

July 9, 2013
Councilmember Dunn turns over “retired” County van to Vision House of Renton
“Vision House has been a positive influence on women and children in the Renton area for a number of years. Handing over this retired van to help them successfully do their work is an honor and I am very pleased to support this fine organization.”

July 1, 2013
County Council sends voters Charter Amendment on the organization of public defense
“Public defense is critically important to our justice system. The voters of King County will now have the final say on this proposed model for public defense.”

July 1, 2013
Dunn thanks state Senate for funding for land purchase in Tahoma School District
“I would like to thank the Legislature for the Capital appropriation which was included in the final budget. This appropriation will aid in the purchase from King County of property inside the Tahoma School District. This property will be used in the future to potentially site a new high school to serve the Tahoma School District and ease overcrowding.”

June 27, 2013 
Charter amendment on the organization of public defense sent to County Council for final action
“This new structure for public defense in King County has been thoughtfully reviewed and amended to ensure equity and social justice principals were included. I look forward to seeing what the voters of King County have to say.”

June 26, 2013
Councilmember Dunn turns over “retired” County van to Camp Berachah Day Care of Auburn
“Camp Berachah’s Day Care Program has been a positive influence and served the greater Auburn region for a number of years. I am pleased to be able to hand over this retired van so that Camp Berachah Day Care can best serve the children that attend this fine organization.”

June 24, 2013
King County honors first group of HERO Program graduates
“When I drafted this legislation, I never could have envisioned how successful the Veteran Internship program would be in assisting these heroes make the transition into the civilian workforce. We have now all seen first-hand the success of this program and I look forward to its continued growth. I encourage other public and private entities to look into implementing this program in their own organization.”

June 14, 2013
Community Service Area meeting brings Dunn, unincorporated residents together to discuss issues
“There is no substitute for meeting with constituents and hearing their concerns directly. These meetings are a superb way to share information with local residents and hear what we as representatives can do to better serve their interests.”

June 11, 2013
Council adopts legislation ensuring equity for all County employees serving in the military
“If called to active duty our service members shouldn’t have to worry if they and their families will have continuing medical, dental, and life insurance benefits. We are asking enough of our service members and this is the very least we can do while they are actively serving our country.”

June 10, 2013
Councilmembers advocate prevention of elder abuse
“Advocating for our elderly population is something we all must take responsibility for. Setting aside a day every year to call attention to this important issue reminds us all that our seniors must be cared for and protected.”

June 4, 2013
Committee helps “pave the way” for renaming of street in front of Liberty High School
“It was a great undertaking for these students and a firsthand demonstration of Civics 101. I am pleased to be able to work with them on this.”

June 3, 2013
Voters to decide in November on six-year levy for Medic One services
“The Emergency Medical Services system in King County is nationally known for its success at saving lives. I look forward to the voters of King County determining the worthiness of this measure and I am pleased to sponsor this legislation.”

May 28, 2013
Council approves “retired” County van for Camp Berachah Day Care of Auburn 
“As we celebrate our 40th anniversary of providing programs for families, and summer camps for 4,000 kids each summer, this van is much needed and appreciated. Thank you King County and Councilmember Dunn.”

May 28, 2013
Council approves “retired” County van for Cedar River Montessori School
“The gift of this van enables us to more easily go out into our community, exploring our place in it and providing service to it. By choosing Cedar River Montessori School, the Metropolitan King County Council is not just supporting our school, but our school’s ability to make a difference. We are deeply appreciative to Councilmember Dunn for making this a reality.”

May 28, 2013
Council approves “retired” County van for Vision House of Renton
“With the summer months almost here, we need safe, reliable transportation for the children to summer camps, meetings and field trips. We are so grateful to King County and Councilmember Dunn for nominating us for such a nice vehicle for our Vision House kids!”

May 28, 2013
Surplus Vanpool vans prepare for new careers: Council approves donations to organizations throughout County
“I am always proud to take part in this van donation process. These retired vans serve a worthy purpose and assist many organizations in our region in better serving their communities.”

May 24, 2013
Councilmembers: Inspections and funding for maintenance vital for transportation infrastructure
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the challenge facing us within the State Legislature. We currently do not have the financing needed to maintain these aging structures. As the Legislature continues working on the State budget, local jurisdictions throughout the State have a critical need for local option funding tools just to maintain and preserve our existing roads and bridges.”

May 24, 2013
County Councilmembers Dunn, Patterson and Sheriff Urquhart urge support for federal funding of air traffic controllers at Renton Municipal Airport
“This airport is critically important to King County and the region. Congress must act and guarantee that the Renton Municipal Airport and others like it have the needed funding to operate fully and continue contributing to the local economy.”

May 20, 2013
County Council adopts interim structure for new Department of Public Defense with four separate divisions
“Public defense is the hallmark of a properly functioning legal system. The interim plan approved today ensures the integrity of our system will be maintained as we transition to an updated public defense model.”

May 20, 2013
King County Council Honors Congressman Norm Dicks
“Like Senators Magnuson and Jackson before him he is a true statesman in every sense of the word. It is a privilege to be able to honor him today and present him with this recognition for all he has done for this region and for this country.”

May 20, 2013
King County proclaims Emergency Medical Services Week
“King County’s emergency providers are known nationally for their success at saving lives. The residents of King County are fortunate to have such dedicated and well trained professionals working every day to continue that success.”

May 13, 2013
County Council recognizes officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice
“It is fitting that every year we take time out to honor the fallen heroes of law enforcement. These men and women protect our communities day in and day out and deserve our gratitude for all they do and all they have done.”

May 8, 2013
Executive Constantine and The Trust for Public Land announce plan to protect Squak Mountain
“I congratulate the Executive and The Trust for a partnership that will keep this land available to the public. This stretch is both a valuable habitat area and a source of recreation for people from around the region.”

May 8, 2013
Councilmember Dunn delivers “retired” County van to Enumclaw High School Transition Program
“It was great to work with the school in providing the vehicle, which now goes into its ‘Golden years’ filling an important need and for these students.”

May 6, 2013
County Council approves blueprint for emergency medical service system
“King County emergency medical services are second to none across this nation when it comes to saving lives. Adopting this strategic plan will ensure the lifesaving services we offer will continue well into the future.”

April 30, 2013
Dunn and Phillips: Reichert takes steps to make Mountains to Sound Greenway designation reality
“We applaud and thank Congressman Reichert for sponsoring the legislation supporting the Mountains to Sound Greenway. He has been a staunch advocate for this important and unique piece of land. Receiving the designation of National Heritage Area, should it pass, would be a first of its kind in Washington State.”

April 15, 2013 
Building on the present, preparing for the future: Council unanimously adopts 2013 Equity and Social Justice work plan
“Everyone deserves a fair opportunity. I am happy to support this ordinance and continue King County’s long commitment to serving all citizens of our County.”

April 8, 2013
County Council acts to keep largest piece of unprotected forestland remaining in King County from development
“Preserving this land keeps this area a working forest, protects local jobs and guarantees that generations to come will benefit from this purchase. This conservation easement also helps to preserve land that is used by many county residents for a variety of recreational activities.”

April 8, 2013
Recognizing the fallen: Council adopts plan to create King County Sheriff Deputy’s memorial
“Memorializing the members of the King County Sheriff’s Office that have given the ultimate sacrifice to protect their communities is long overdue. I look forward to working with Sheriff Urquhart and the King County Police Officers Guild to ensure that these 15 heroes are never forgotten and that this memorial becomes a reality.”

April 8, 2013
Recognizing the fallen: Council adopts plan to create King County Sheriff Deputy’s memorial
“The city of Newcastle will never forget the sacrifice of Deputy Richard Herzog who lost his life while protecting the public in 2002. This proposed memorial is another example of our shared conviction that Deputy Herzog and his fellow 14 members of the King County’s Sheriff’s Office killed in the line of duty will never be forgotten.”

April 8, 2013
Recognizing the fallen: Council adopts plan to create King County Sheriff Deputy’s memorial
“The Covington City Council offers its unanimous support for your Proposed Ordinance 2013-0132. As a city that contracts with King County for police services, we believe it is important to honor our fallen deputies here in King County.”

April 3, 2013
County Councilmember Dunn, Sheriff Urquhart to Host Town Hall Meeting in Fairwood
The senseless acts of violence that took the lives of two elderly members of the Fairwood community and the ongoing investigation into this tragedy will be discussed by Dunn and Sheriff Urquhart.

March 26, 2013
King County Sheriff Deputies’ Memorial Legislation Passes Council Committee Unanimously
Legislation honoring the fifteen members of the King County Sheriff’s Office that have been killed in the line of duty has unanimously passed the King County Council’s Law, Justice, Health and Human Services Committee (LJHHS). Currently, there is no memorial within the County honoring those men who died protecting their fellow citizens.

March 19, 2013
Transit audit report: Metro saving $22 million annually
“The findings of this audit prove that doing more with less is not only possible but a true success story for King County Metro. Metro has more lean times ahead and it is vitally important that we continue to find ways to cut costs, improve efficiency and remain consistent in providing the top notch service that Metro riders depend on.”

March 18, 2013
County Council appoints Ketu Shah to fill vacancy in King County District Court
“The King County District Court plays an integral role in our criminal justice process. Ketu Shah is a well-qualified individual that will serve the County and our Court system well.”

March 18, 2013
County Council approves proposed settlement with public defense employees
“Public defenders are a key element of our criminal justice system and these employees deserve comparable benefits to their peers. This settlement will protect King County taxpayers from costly litigation and put an end to this long drawn out case.”

March 6, 2013
Councilmember Dunn proposes creation of King County Sheriff Deputy’s memorial
“Honoring the memories of the King County Sheriff’s Department who have lost their lives protecting the public is the right thing to do. We must never forget the ultimate sacrifice they made on our behalf.”

March 4, 2013
Councilmember Dunn visits cities throughout Council District 9
“We face many challenges in 2013 but these challenges provide us unique opportunities to rise up and solve these issues, making the County a better more secure place for our residents.”

February 28, 2013
Dunn to Chair King County Flood Control District
“Serving on these committees is a very important part of representing the constituents of District 9. I take this responsibility very seriously and I look forward to a productive year finding solutions to the issues facing King County.”

February 11, 2013
King County Council appoints Rod Dembowski to fill vacancy in County Council District 1
“We have a lot of important work before the Council this year and I have full confidence that Councilmember Dembowski will represent the residents of District 1 with distinction.”

February 11, 2013
Council approves members of Advisory Council for Eastside Rail Corridor
“I am pleased to see that this advisory council will begin work on this important topic. The men and women on this council will do an outstanding job and I look forward to reviewing their findings.”

February 4, 2013
County Council ready to focus on Executive’s plans to strengthen King County’s “infrastructure”
“Delivering services and meeting the needs of the citizens of King County are goals I share with Executive Constantine. I thank him for his address this morning and I will be thoroughly reviewing his proposals as they come before the Council.”

January 30, 2013
Regional billboards become part of the campaign to inform public about Human Trafficking
“I can’t thank Clear Channel enough for all their cooperation in this awareness campaign, they have been integral to the success of this process. This issue isn’t going away and I am pleased we are taking steps to alert the public about the horrors of human trafficking and where help is available to victims.”

January 30, 2013
Mayor and County Councilmember Dunn announce anti-trafficking campaign
“Victims of human trafficking come to our area from all over the world; some are even victimized here at home. It's essential that this message goes out in as many languages as possible, so thank you ClearChannel for helping us make this a reality.”

January 22, 2013
Council approves members of advisory panel on transit mobility
“Mass transit is vitally important to low income populations in our communities. I look forward to hearing back about the important work this panel provides on ways we can better serve those populations.”

January 18, 2013
Dunn: Memorial “fitting tribute” for fallen officers
“It is truly a privilege to help dedicate this new memorial for Sergeant Hicks and Detective Raburn, two heroes who lost their lives in the line of duty protecting the community they both so admirably served.”

January 14, 2013
King County and coalitions promote awareness of human trafficking
“Raising awareness and educating the public about the horrors of Human Trafficking is one of the best ways we can stop these crimes. I am very pleased that here in King County we are focusing on human trafficking and ways to combat it.”

January 14, 2013
Colleagues recognize, say goodbye to Councilmember Bob Ferguson
“It was a pleasure to serve on the Council with such a thoughtful public servant. I wish him all the best in his new position in Olympia and I have no doubts he will serve the citizens of our state well.