Dear staff nurses of the WSNA bargaining unit,

As we approach the final stages of the King County budget discussions, we want to provide you with an update on our ongoing advocacy for stable and sustainable funding for public health services.

Our coalition of unions and community partners has been working tirelessly to highlight the importance of maintaining robust public health services, especially as our communities continue to face unprecedented challenges. While the Executive’s proposed budget includes indefinite funding for public health, the county hospital, in collaboration with UW Medicine, is advocating for this funding to be temporary in order to fully fund their operations.

We know this new uncertainty may come as a surprise to many of you, and we share your concerns and frustrations.

What can every Seattle King County staff nurse do right away?

Take an active role in this effort to secure stable, ongoing funding. We encourage you to share your personal stories and experiences with King County Councilmembers directly. Sending a brief email to your council member will underscore the critical role public health plays in keeping our communities safe and healthy. Please send from your personal email only, on a rest or meal break or time off to minimize use of work equipment.

Your voice is powerful and can make a significant difference in shaping these budget decisions.

What can you do next to participate?

Additionally, King County will hold a budget hearing on Wednesday November 13, where public comments will be heard. This is an excellent opportunity for those who feel comfortable speaking publicly to share the real-world impacts of public health funding decisions directly with council members. Your stories of lives improved, outbreaks prevented, and the essential role of public health services will emphasize the irreplaceable value of our work. We will provide details about how to participate in a follow up communication.

Lastly, please remember we will be meeting as public health coalition members again on Tuesday, Nov. 5 at noon via Zoom to discuss these developments and next steps in this advocacy effort. If you aren't already, please register for that meeting here Meeting Registration - Zoom.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment to protecting and strengthening public health in King County.

Questions? Contact Nurse Representative Tara Barnes at tbarnes@wsna.org