The Municipal League of King County recently released a report on selected issues relating to land-use regulation within King County, the result of a two-year study originating from a review of the 2006 Property Rights Initiative, I-933. While the Municipal League opposed that measure, the issues raised by proponents warranted an independent study.
The report, compiled by volunteers interested in land use, made findings and recommendations in the following main areas:
• Citizens throughout King County lack consensus on the location of future growth despite long-adopted growth management policies. The report suggests some practical tools to address this intractable problem.
• Revenue inadequacy is a major theme for local governments, especially for chronically-strapped King County. The state should help identify long-term structural solutions for urban counties and consider enabling new revenue sources.
• Representation – King County provides zoning and permitting to unincorporated citizens as their local government, yet more than 80 percent of councilmembers’ constituents live in cities. This pattern weakens representation for unincorporated residents and suggests the need for structural reforms granting them greater influence over decisions that directly affect them.
• King County has had serious problems in its permitting practices, often related to permit fees. Both adequate revenues and careful monitoring are required to ensure better performance.
To view the report, visit www.munileague.org/.
• Muni League calls for Civic Awards nominations
The Municipal League of King County is calling for nominations for its annual Civic Awards to honor those who are working to improve the community. This year’s awards are intended to commemorate the Municipal League’s 100th anniversary and a century of service to civic life in our community. Unlike the annual Civic Awards that recognize civic achievement over the previous year, the Centennial Civic Awards celebrate individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the community over many years.
Each year the league solicits nominations from the public. Nominees will be evaluated by the League’s Centennial Civic Awards Committee, which makes a recommendation on each award for approval by the Municipal League board.
The Municipal League created the Civic Awards in 1960. Honorees represent a diverse array of civic and community leadership. Last year’s honorees included Cary Moon, Ava Frisinger, Allen Church, Joni Earl, Mayor Greg Nickels, Brice Maryman, Bruce D. Carter, Norma Jean Hanson, Force 10 Hoops LLC, Seattle Works, and The Evans School of Public Affairs.
Nomination forms are available on the League’s Web site at www.munileague.org or by contacting the office at 206-622-8333. The deadline for nominations is Jan. 8, 2010. Winners will be announced in early February. Centennial Civic Awards will be presented at our Centennial Celebration Dinner on March 18, 2010. Tickets will go on sale Dec. 15.
