News briefs

County targets junked cars

Abandoned junk cars in unincorporated areas of King County will be impounded if left on streets and private property.

The Metropolitan King County Council, in adopting an anti-junker ordinance last Monday, said such vehicles create health and safety issues by narrowing streets and limiting visibility. The derelicts also detract from quality of life, council members contended.

“If a car has no engine and no windshield, it can’t be stored on the street,” said Councilman Dwight Pelz. “We’re looking specifically at cars and trucks that have been trashed and left on the street like a piece of litter.”

Impoundment will be ordered by the county police if the vehicle meets the definition of wrecked, dismantled or inoperative.

‘Schmoozing’ Chamber topic

A presentation of “Dos and Don’ts of Schmoozing and Networking Tips” is on the program for the Federal Way Chamber’s monthly membership luncheon next Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. at the Weyerhaeuser King County Aquatics Center.

County approves FW property sale

The Metropolitan King County Council has approved the sale of county-owned surplus property in Federal Way to Habitat for Humanity for the purpose of affordable housing.

The two parcels have no utilities, and access is undeveloped. The conditions make the properties difficult to develop, both physically and economically. Since Habitat for Humanity owns adjoining property, development of the three properties for affordable housing becomes feasible and cost-effective, county officials said.

“With a modest public investment, these undeveloped parcels become vibrant homes within the Federal Way community,” said County Councilwoman Jane Hague. “This is yet another exciting opportunity to partner with Habitat for Humanity to create affordable housing within King County.”

The property is located at Southwest 369th Street and First Avenue South. The parcels were acquired by the county through foreclosure sales for delinquent real estate taxes. Each 12,000 square foot property has an assessed value of $20,000. As part of the sale agreement, Habitat for Humanity will purchase the properties for $3,500, the amount of back taxes associated with the properties.

Youth Hall seeks nominees

The Federal Way Youth Hall of Fame, now in its sixth year, is seeking nominations of local young people for making a positive difference in the Federal Way community.

Youth in elementary to high school grades can be nominated. Those selected will be honored at a ceremony in May and will receive a tile on the to-be constructed Federal Way Youth Wall of Fame.

Founded in 1996 by Bryon Mengle of Federal Way, the Youth Hall of Fame has inducted 15 young people and five young-at-heart adults.

Nomination forms are available at 334-2252 and NOMINATE@FWYHF.ORG. The deadline is April 1.

Additional information is available at 334-2252

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