Summary

King County Executive Dow Constantine tonight thanked the voters who renewed the Veterans and Human Services Levy, and made clear the County’s intentions to quickly set wheels in motion to ensure efficient continuation of the levy’s critical programs and services.

Story

King County Executive Dow Constantine tonight thanked the voters who renewed the Veterans and Human Services Levy, and made clear the County's intentions to quickly set wheels in motion to ensure efficient continuation of the levy's critical programs and services.

"The citizens of King County have demonstrated their respect for our veterans and compassion for our neighbors most in need by voting to renew the Veterans and Human Services Levy," said Constantine. "I thank the voters for approving the levy and showing, once again, that King County is an extraordinary community in which to live."

With passage of the levy renewal, King County can continue to support families through the multiple deployments of their loved ones, offer training and employment programs to help returning veterans transition to civilian life and others looking to earn a living wage, and reduce or prevent homelessness for individuals and families across the county.

The levy has funded services over the previous six years, and details can be found online.

By noon tomorrow, Wednesday August 17, the county will have a draft Service Improvement Plan posted online for public review and comment.

"Through examination of the last six years of service delivery, we have found opportunities to expand our successes and create efficiencies," added Constantine. "With this renewal, we have a fresh opportunity to examine every dollar spent and provide both cost-effective and compassionate services to veterans and those in need."

Following public review and comment, the Executive will transmit a final plan to the King County Council in September. Review and approval of the Service Improvement Plan is expected as part of the 2012 Budget process.

Today's vote continues the current Veterans and Human Services Levy, which is set to expire on December 31, 2011. For more information, visit https://www.kingcounty.gov/operations/DCHS/Services/Levy.aspx.