In order to collect the additional $1.2 billion in taxes passed by the Democrats during the 2019 legislative session, the Washington Department of Revenue will need to hire 44 more employees.  The department has submitted a request for an additional $4.1 million to cover the added expenses in the 2020 supplemental budget. (Everett Herald)

A California corporate contribution makes up nearly 90% of the campaign to reinstate affirmative action in Washington state.  Kaiser Permanente donated $500,000 (out of $588,000 total raised) through their Group Health Community Fund to the campaign. (Seattle Times)

King County is dramatically failing to meet its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions reduction goals.  The 2015 Climate Action Plan stated there would be a 25% reduction of GHG by 2020, 50% by 2030 and 80% by 2050.  Yet, by the end of 2008 the county had reduced GHG emissions by just 1.4%.  County spokesperson said population growth was partially responsible for the county’s failure.  Apparently county officials in 2015 believed people were going to suddenly stop moving into King County. (Seattle Weekly)

For those who have been politically aware for a while, Snohomish County Auditor candidate Garth Fell’s name might ring a bell.  During the disputed race for Governor in 2004, Fell oversaw ballot processing for King County.  He co-authored the “Mail Ballot Report” that failed to accurately provide information regarding disputed ballots.  Fell and his supervisor Bill Huennekens received much criticism over the report and their failure to disclose the inaccuracies.  It is interesting that Fell does not list working for King County on his campaign bio. (Garth Fell for Auditor and Seattle Times)

The rainbow crosswalks on Seattle’s Capitol Hill may be unsafe compared to the standard white crosswalks according to the federal government.  This may cost the city future federal dollars for road projects that involve intersections with the rainbow designs. (MyNorthwest)

A large turnout in Okanogan strongly opposed introducing grizzlies into the North Cascades. Approximately 600 turned out for a public hearing with Congressman Dan Newhouse and officials from federal agencies.  Overwhelmingly speakers and audience members were against bringing in grizzlies from other states.  The primary concern was that the predatory bear would threaten livestock, indigenous wildlife, and families.  (Capital Press)

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is looking for candidates to serve on a citizens advisory committee for wolf recovery.  There are currently four vacancies on the 18-person board.  WDFW is looking for individuals who represent livestock-producer, hunting, and environmentalist perspective. (iFIBER One)

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