Dear Friends:

Today’s update includes an emphasis on the importance of regional partnership, updated resources from the King County Library System and the State Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, and work by King County Parks in South King County.

King County Libraries Remain Open for Virtual Business

King County Library System (KCLS) reports that they have been working hard to ensure that patrons of all ages can continue to learn, build skills, and stay entertained while at home. KCLS has taken a variety of steps to ensure they remain accessible, including:

• Increased digital collections of online eBooks, magazines, databases, music, movies and more.

• Revamped its K-12 webpage with links to a wide variety of education support resources, tips and activities, from homework help through Tutor.com to STEM learning from Tumblemath.com.

• Small business webpage with links to information and resources which includes COVID-19 information and resources for Washington state businesses.

• Databases like Lynda.com for skill building on a host of topics.

• Access for market research tools, and access to Microsoft Office certification classes, plus 425 Startup, a popular program series for entrepreneurs.

• A wide range of streaming content to keep us entertained and engaged. Offerings include movies, TV shows, PBS’ highly regarded Great Courses series, and health and fitness classes for all ages.

Please note that at this time, libraries cannot accept returned items. They have extended the due date on all physical materials until July 15th.

Working Together Through the COVID-19 Crisis

Last week I met with Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell to talk about ways the city and county are partnering to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Despite the unprecedented challenges we are facing, King County is working with local elected officials across the region to respond to this crisis and provide services to those who need them. Thank you Mayor Ferrell for your efforts as a partner to keep South King County safe and blunt the spread of this virus.



With Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell

Work on North Green River Park

King County Parks is working during the parks closures and dedicating time to needed improvements across the County, including at North Green River Park in Kent. Staff are working hard to rehabilitate parking lots and top-dressing the soccer fields to ensure they are in great shape when they reopen.

King County Resource Guide

King County has compiled a brand new resource guide to help people get through the COVID-19 crisis. The guide includes unemployment resources, small business loans, childcare resources, and more. The guide is also now available in English and 10 additional languages. You can check it out here.

Updated Guidance and Resources for Distance Learning

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction published new guidance on student learning and grading for the duration of the school closures and distance learning. You can view the new resources and guidance here.

UW Medicine Data Institute Projections

UW Medicine’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation continues to update their COVID-19 forecast. UW Medicine’s models have been used by policy makers across the country to evaluate the ongoing COVID-19 response. You can view the projections here.



King County Case Update

As of today, Seattle – King County Public Health was reporting 120 new cases, bringing the total in King County to 5,689. In addition, they reported 3 new deaths, bringing the total in the County to 387.

NFL Draft 2020

I am so desperate for football season to begin that I actually was happy (for a moment) to see Commissioner Roger Goddell’s picture on the screen yesterday. Go Hawks!



Stay In. Stay Healthy. Stay Strong.

Pete von Reichbauer
King County Councilmember