Most county offices closed Dec. 24 for unpaid furlough with limited county services available to residents
On Thursday, Dec. 24, most King County staff will be on unpaid leave and most county buildings will be closed as the county takes the tenth of ten furlough days in 2009 to cut operational costs countywide. All department employees, with limited exceptions, such as those in public-safety functions, are included in the furlough plan. County offices will also be closed Friday, Dec. 25 for the Christmas holiday.

Statements on Pierce County officer shootings
King County Executive Dow Constantine and County Council Chair Bob Ferguson issued the following statements regarding the shooting incident in Pierce County that critically wounded two Sheriff's deputies

County Executive Constantine congratulates Boeing on a successful flight
King County Executive Dow Constantine congratulated Boeing on the successful first flight of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner after a successful maiden voyage.

Constantine makes first inspection of Green River flood zone as King County Executive
For the first time since taking office, King County Executive Dow Constantine today toured facilities and locations in the Green River Valley that may be adversely affected by flood waters from the federal Howard Hanson Dam. Accompanied by key flood planning staff, the Executive received briefings from emergency managers, regional partners, and other elected officials at locations in and around the Green River Valley.

Cold weather tips for staying safe and warm

Directors of two King County departments step down
The directors of the King County Department of Natural Resources and of the county's Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention today both submitted their resignations from their positions. Theresa Jennings and Kathy Van Olst made their personal decisions earlier this week and informed the office of the County Executive today.

King County Executive and Sheriff extend condolences to Lakewood Police
King County Executive Dow Constantine has joined with King County Sheriff Sue Rahr in extending condolences to the families and co-workers of four Lakewood Police officers killed earlier this week. They also signaled their joint support for the fallen officers' co-workers and other law enforcement officers around the state by ordering flags at King County facilities lowered until the Lakewood officers are laid to rest next week.