Recognizing the Contributions of Dow Constantine

Floor Speech

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Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Dow Constantine, who is stepping down after 16 years of service as King County Executive. Throughout his tenure, Dow has been a transformative leader, driving significant progress in our region with a relentless focus on equity, sustainability, and community well-being. His leadership has made a lasting impact not only in King County, but throughout our entire region. Thanks to Dow's leadership and his commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, Martin Luther King, Jr. County will remain a welcoming place for all to thrive.

Dow has brought significant positive change to King County. A few notable achievements including the creation of a bold climate action plan, protecting immigrant communities, expanding affordable housing, leading efforts to address homelessness, advancing mental health initiatives and promoting sustainable transportation. His administration created over 3,800 affordable housing units and acquired 1,400 supportive housing units through the Health Through Housing program. Dow supported the creation of the King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission (KCIRC), provided funding to immigrant-serving organizations and reinforced King County's commitment to being a welcoming community. He launched the Crisis Care Centers initiative, providing essential care and reducing the burden on emergency rooms and jails. Dow's commitment to environmental conservation resulted in the protection of 30,000 acres of land and the restoration of 500 acres of fish and wildlife habitat, including the successful resurgence of the Kokanee salmon population. Through his advocacy for sustainable transportation, he expanded King County Metro with the launch of eight RapidRide routes and growing the Link Light Rail network to 51 stations.

Dow's leadership has always been grounded in the values of equity, public service and collaboration. His legacy will continue to inspire future leaders to carry forward the work of building a stronger community that serves all people. As he moves on to serve as CEO of Sound Transit, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Dow's accomplishments and service to our country. On behalf of Washington's 7th Congressional District, I thank Dow for making King County a more inclusive, sustainable, and just place to live.

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