Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This afternoon, the Legislature completed two days of committee meetings in Olympia. It was good to compare notes about what we’re hearing in our home districts and discuss some of the key issues for the upcoming 2010 session. Here are a few updates on current issues of concern: 

Flood preparations in the Green River Valley

Federal officials believe there is a one-in-three chance the Green River will flood this winter. Many different facets of preparation are already in play. It is important for every resident to have a plan just in case. That means having evacuation and communication plans plus lining up temporary housing. State and local governments are also arranging for housing if necessary. To find out how you can be prepared, go to King County’s flood preparedness website.

A series of regional meetings on flood preparedness are being held. The first is this Saturday, October 3^rd at 9am in the ShoWare Center in Kent. Two meetings will be at the Tukwila Community Center: Wednesday, October 7^th at 6pm and Saturday, October 10^th  at 10am. A third meeting targeting businesses will be at Foster High School on Wednesday, October 14^th at 6pm. The full schedule is available on the flood preparedness website.

Moving up in the rankings

Washington State is often criticized for a “negative business climate”, however, a pair of recent developments suggests progress is being made. First, the Tax Foundation has placed Washington 9^th in its ranking of the country’s top business tax climates, up from 12^th last year. Secondly, Forbes has ranked us 2^nd on its Best States for Business list. Of course, high magazine rankings are not our objective - producing and retaining good jobs is what really matters. There’s more to do to protect our fragile recovering economy, but it’s great to be nationally recognized for being on the right track!

General election in 5 weeks!

The November 3^rd general election is not far off — ballots will begin arriving in mailboxes in just two short weeks.  The Secretary of State’s Office has posted its online voters guide. There you’ll find basic information about the two statewide ballot measures and statements written by proponents and opponents. If you’re not already registered to vote, the deadline for submitting a new voter registration form by mail or online is this Monday, October 5^th. You’ll still be able to register in-person through Monday, October 26^th at the County Auditor’s office. You can register online here.

Stay in touch

I always welcome your calls and e-mails with questions or concerns so current and accurate information can be provided to you. Look for more updates and information in a couple of weeks!

Sincerely,

To contact me toll-free, call the Legislative Hotline at 1-800-562-6000.

To send any comments or to unsubscribe from this newsletter, visit: http://www.sdc.wa.gov/senators/prentice/.