Newcastle City Councilman Sonny Putter has been elected vice chair of the King County Regional Policy Committee.  His election was part of a change to the King County charter that was approved by voters in November, giving cities a larger voice and influence over the county’s three regional committees.

Sonny Putter

Until now, only King County Council members could serve as chair or vice chair of the committees, which include policy, transit, and water quality. Because of the change, City Council members and water and sewer district commissioners can now serve as vice chairs. The end result gives cities a greater role in setting agendas.

In addition to Putter’s election, Sammamish City Councilwoman Kathy Huckabay was elected vice chair of the Regional Transit Committee, and Bellevue City Councilman Don Davidson was elected vice chair of the Water Quality Committee. All three are members of the Suburban Cities Association caucuses for the Regional Committees.

“This change recognizes the importance of King County cities outside Seattle and the key role they play in our region,” Putter said. “It gives us a stronger voice in the decisions that impact the entire county.”