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The Ombuds Office manages complaints from the public and King County employees about King County government agencies and departments. We also investigate allegations of violations of the Employee Code of Ethics and reports of improper governmental action and retaliation filed under the Whistleblower Protection Act. We never inquire about immigration status.

For more information about the types of complaints we investigate and our jurisdiction, please visit the links listed on the menu bar to the left.

Our Mission

To promote public confidence in King County government by responding to complaints from the public in an impartial, efficient, and timely manner, and to contribute to the improved operation of County government by making recommendations based upon the results of investigations.

Who We Are

The Ombuds Office was created by the voters of King County in the County Home Rule Charter of 1968, and operates as an independent office within the legislative branch of King County government.

What We Do

Under King County Code (KCC) 2.52, we are authorized to investigate complaints on administrative conduct by King County agencies and departments, and to publish recommendations based on the results of investigations. In addition, the Ombuds Office investigates possible violations of the King County Employee Code of Ethics (KCC 3.04), and reports of improper governmental action and retaliation under the Whistleblower Protection Code (KCC 3.42), and possible violations of the Lobbyist Disclosure Code (KCC 1.07). Most concerns the office receives can be resolved informally without investigation.