Dear Friends:

Today’s update includes information on the King County Small Business Grant program deadline extension, our upcoming shredding and mask distribution events, the Kent Small Business Emergency grant relief program, and more.

Washington Trivia

Where was the highest amount of snowfall in a one-year period?

(Answer is at the bottom).



Small Business Grant Program Deadline Extension

King County is extending the application deadline for the Small Business Grant program through Friday, July 17th. Small businesses in unincorporated King County that meet the requirement and have been hurt by COVID-19 may still submit their application. Materials and detailed instructions for applying are available in English and eight other languages on the project website.

Free Document Shredding and Mask Distribution in Federal Way and Auburn

This weekend, I am hosting free document shredding and mask distribution events in Federal Way and Auburn. In keeping with public safety guidelines, the drop-off will be done through a drive-through, and staff members will be wearing masks and gloves. Please bring as many documents as you would like to shred. I will also be distributing face masks for free.

In Federal Way: Saturday, July 11th, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Federal Way Farmers Market, located in the old Sears parking lot of the Commons Mall (1701 S. 320th St).

In Auburn: Sunday, July 12th, from 9 a.m. to noon in the parking lot adjacent to Auburn Library at Les Gove Park (1102 Auburn Way South).

Kent Small Business Emergency Relief Grant

The Kent City Council authorized the use of $1 million of its federal CARES Act funds for Emergency Relief Grants to help businesses recover. Businesses can receive grants of $4,500 each to help with economic relief from the pandemic. The application process opens on Monday, July 13, 10 a.m. and closes Monday, July 27, 11:59 p.m. Applicants will be notified about the grant awards in mid-August. Visit the city’s website for more information.

County Phases

The map below shows how many counties are in each phase of the Safe Start plan. Visit the state’s What’s Open page to learn more about the activities allowed for each phase. The breakdown of counties by phase is as follows:

Modified Phase 1: Benton, Chelan, Douglas, Franklin, Yakima.

Phase 2: Adams, Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Grant, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Klickitat, Okanogan, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, Spokane, Walla Walla, Whatcom.

Phase 3: Asotin, Columbia, Ferry, Garfield, Grays Harbor, Island, Kittitas, Lewis, Lincoln, Mason, Pacific, Pend Oreille, Skamania, Stevens, Thurston, Wahkiakum, Whitman.



Weekly King County Health Update: Suicide Rates

In these challenging times, it can be difficult to navigate mental health struggles. It is important to take the time to make sure you and your loved ones are doing well. Suicide is a serious problem, but there are many ways you can help someone who may be experiencing a crisis. One way anyone can help is to remember the acronym LEARN.

L: Look for the signs
E: Empathize and listen
A: Ask about suicide
R: Remove the danger
N: Next steps

To find out more, please visit the “LEARN Saves Lives Suicide Prevention Training for Parents/Caregivers” webinar.




This figure reflects recent suicide rates in King County, Washington, and the United States. Please visit this website for more information.

2020 Washington State Fair Cancelled

After thoughtful deliberation, fair officials have made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Washington State Fair. This decision is based on the best interests of the health and safety of everyone during this coronavirus pandemic. Though there are many things that will be missed, they are still hosting two more drive-thru Fair Food-To-Go events, a live drive-in concert series and a free drive-in movie night. Check all summer event information here.

Washington State University Revises Housing Addendum

WSU revised its 2020-2021 Housing Addendum after receiving criticisms on its initial decision, requiring freshmen students to pay for housing and dining, and to sign a waiver stating they wouldn’t get a refund should WSU go completely online.

WSU announced the revision shortly after parents launched an online petition. Now, if a public health order requires the University to vacate residence halls due to COVID-19, the University will implement a refund or credit policy matching the order. Read more about it here.

King County Case Update

Today, Seattle – King County Public Health reported 146 new cases, bringing the total in King County to 11,632. In addition, Public Health reported 1 new death, bringing the total in the county to 603.

Stay In. Stay Healthy. Stay Strong.

Pete von Reichbauer
King County Councilmember



Washington trivia answer:

In the winter of 1971-72, Mt. Rainier (Paradise) received 1,122 inches of snowfall, which was the greatest snowfall ever recorded in history. However, Mt. Baker later claimed the world record by receiving 1,140 inches of snowfall during the winter of 1998-99.