Hello friends,

I hope that you’ve been staying warm and enjoying the days with more sunlight. We’ve had a busy and productive start to 2023 here at the Council over the past two months. I’m reaching out to share a few programs we have going on at the County; feel free to share with those you know!

Metro Van Program

Last week, we launched the 2023 Van Grant Program. Every year, the Council allocates retired passenger vans to nonprofit organizations and local governments. These vans must be used to transport people with special needs or to transport goods and services to those with special needs. These include seniors, low-income, youth, or people with disabilities. This year, the requirements differ slightly from previous years in that the vans can now be used for the transport of goods and supplies to special needs groups. If you are part of an organization in District 8 or know of an organization in District 8 that meets these requirements, please reach out to Helen Dahl (helen.dahl@kingcounty.gov) on my staff. The deadline for van applications through the District 8 office is Monday, March 13th at 5 pm.

Upcoming Grants & Funding Opportunities

Our office has several grants that are available to organizations throughout our district. Here is some information about those that have applications due in the next couple of months and links to complete the application process. You can learn more about the grant opportunities and programs provided through our office on my Council website under “Grants and Funding Opportunities”.

The WaterWorks Grant Program provides $5 million in funding every two years to organizations carrying out projects that improve water quality in the service area for the King County regional wastewater system. Eligible applicants include non-profits, schools and educational institutions, tribes, and local governments. Applications for the competitive track can be submitted directly through Wastewater Treatment Division and are due Wednesday, March 8th. If you have additional questions about this grant opportunity, email Grant Lahmann (grant.lahmann@kingcounty.gov) on my team.

King County Parks has four different grant programs that are administered to community organizations and projects that work towards making parks, green spaces, and recreation opportunities more accessible for King County residents. The Parks levy allocates $110 million over 6 years towards care of King County’s parks and open spaces. Eligible applicants include local governments, non-profits, tribal organizations, school districts, or park districts. Public access or public benefit is a requirement, and recipients are obligated to ensure long-term public access or benefit. Applications can be submitted directly here or on the King County Parks website. If any additional questions, email my chief of staff Grant Lahmann (grant.lahmann@kingcounty.gov). Applications for this grant are due Wednesday, March 15th.

Have a great weekend,

-Joe

Joe McDermott
King County Councilmember