Scott Barden

The 2022 legislative priorities for King County focus on achieving an anti-racist and pro-equity community for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Key priorities include promoting equitable access to culturally relevant services, increasing accessible and affordable housing options, improving access to early support services for infants and toddlers by eliminating out-of-pocket costs, and investing in employment opportunities to support economic recovery and inclusion. The plan emphasizes centering the voices of marginalized communities and ensuring comprehensive support for all residents to achieve their highest potential.

The meeting commenced with a special item proclaiming February 24, 2026, as Twin Peaks Day in King County, followed by recognition of an employee's 27 years of service. Key legislative actions involved holding public hearings and passing several ordinances on the consent agenda, including one related to the contracting opportunities program and small contractor certification (Ordinance No. 2025-0277), and another adopting the revision of voting precincts for 2026 (Ordinance No. 2026-0020). An ordinance authorizing a housing cooperation agreement with the Housing Authority of the County of King for low-income housing development was passed. Several other proposed ordinances regarding property lease, current use assessment applications, and denying a petition to vacate a street segment received their first reading and referral to appropriate committees or the Hearing Examiner.

The event, which is the 31st annual forum, focused on legislative priorities concerning residents with developmental disabilities and their families. Key discussion areas included supporting early intervention via the 'Best Starts for Kids' initiative, promoting employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, and addressing the regional homelessness crisis through a proposed sales tax dedicated to emergency housing acquisition, including hotels and motels with on-site services. The County Executive also noted the intent to seek renewal of the 'Best Starts for Kids' levy.

This document outlines King County's commitment to the 'Employment First' principle, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to competitive employment. Key strategic goals include equitable access and cultural considerations, resource development, building community trust, fostering collaboration, expanding employer partnerships, providing mentorship and technical assistance, improving system navigation, and engaging students early for career readiness. The plan envisions a future where all people with disabilities secure meaningful jobs and contribute their talents in collaborative work environments.

The discussion centered around the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a Countywide Gender-Based Violence Prevention Pilot Facilitator. The meeting provided an overview of the Veterans, Seniors, and Human Services Levy (VSHSL), which funds this initiative, and detailed the structure of the two-phase prevention pilot, focusing on the planning and facilitation phase (Phase One) governed by this RFQ. Key aspects covered included the scope of work for the facilitator, required qualifications for applicants (experience in gender-based violence, equity, facilitation, etc.), application requirements (including a cost proposal overview), and the submission timeline. A significant portion of the discussion addressed how the planning phase must incorporate deep input from long-term service providers and ensure meaningful engagement from youth and young adults regarding gender-based violence prevention strategies.