Metropolitan King County Council Vice Chair Reagan Dunn announced this week that the adopted 2017-2018 King County Biennial Budget includes funding set aside for programs in the Greater Renton area, in addition to continued funding for the King County Sheriff’s Office Air Support and Marine Rescue units.

“As a council had a lot of tough decisions to make during this budget process. I am glad that we were able to continue supporting the lifesaving work of the King County Sheriff’s Office,” Dunn said in a press release. “I’m also glad to have had the chance to advocate for funds focused on promoting great youth programs and improving Renton neighborhood parks.”

When budget constraints threatened the Sheriff’s Office Air and Marine Rescue Units, the first responders for emergencies on Lake Washington and wilderness Search and Rescue, the King County Council worked to find a solution.

Thanks to the Council, the 2017-2018 Budget will maintain the King County Sheriff’s Air and Marine Rescue Units.

“The Air Support and Marine Units save lives, plain and simple,” said Sheriff John Urquhart. “I am very relieved and pleased the Council fought to fully fund these units. Their work is far too important.”

Greater Renton area parks also received a boost from the adopted budget with $180,000 set aside for the City of Renton’s Parks and Recreation program and improvements to Sunset Neighborhood Park. An additional $250,000 has also been set aside for a variety of unincorporated parks near the City of Renton such as Maplewood and Petrovitsky Park.

“We are grateful for the additional funding from the King County Council for improvements to Sunset Neighborhood Park, City of Renton Parks and Recreation, and Maplewood Park. These parks and recreational areas play an important role in the fabric of our city” said Mayor Denis Law.