Finally, the two cities of Seattle and Burien have reached a preliminary agreement to the proposed annexation of the unincorporated area of North Highline.

The parties involved in the mediation talks include the cities of Burien and Seattle, King County and Fire District 2 and 11.

The basics of the agreement are as follows.

1. All parties support the transition of the unincorporated North Highline to city status in a timely manner that will increase existing local service levels.

2. All parties agree that the annexation to more than one city is the preferred option, given the diversity of community preferences and the significant cost of service associated with annexing the entire area.

3. It's agreed that the continued provision of fire protection services is essential to the residents and businesses in the North Highline communities and that all parties will work to ensure an annexation will not result in a reduction in services.

4. Both Seattle and Burien are looking to receive additional fiscal support beyond the local municipal revenues generated in the unincorporated area.

Read the entire agreement at http://burienwa.gov/DocumentView.asp?DID=739.