Today Seattle City Councilmembers unanimously passed a resolution stating their intention to seek a November 2011 annexation election for the remaining unincorporated area of North Highline. This timeframe will provide time to outline a work program, deliverables and a schedule to support the Mayor and City Council in determining whether Seattle should pursue annexation of this area.

“Annexing North Highline will benefit the citizens of that area, as well as those in the City of Seattle,” stated Council President Richard Conlin. “There would be initial investments in the community, and the shared fire and emergency services will improve quality of life in this South Seattle area.”

While the action taken today is non-binding, it will allow the Council to proceed in working with King County and the community to evaluate all aspects of the potential annexation. Once compiled, this information will provide the necessary analysis for residents to make an informed decision, should annexation come to a vote in November 2011.

The City Council is committed to working cooperatively with King County Executive Dow Constantine on the financial issues that must be addressed in order to move forward with the potential annexation.

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