The Metropolitan King County Council today unanimously voted in favor of an ordinance authorizing an interlocal agreement (ILA) with the City of Auburn to transfer 7.77 acres of property to the City for the development of a riverfront park.

The state of Washington already has transferred ownership of a neighboring 6.3 acres, bringing the total riverfront property to 14.07 acres.

During last week’s County Council meeting, Judy Denny, a property owner near the proposed land transfer, expressed concerns about traffic, noise and public disturbance issues.

Councilmember von Reichbauer coordinated a meeting last week between Denny and City officials to discuss her concerns. After the meeting, both parties agreed that this transfer of property is the correct path forward.

“I wanted to make sure that the residents near this proposed park had a chance to voice their questions and suggestions to County officials about this transfer of land,” said von Reichbauer, a co-sponsor of the ordinance. “The addition of a riverfront park will be beneficial to all in our region, particularly those in South King County, but we needed to ensure that the neighborhood’s concerns were addressed before the Council voted to approve the transfer.”

The transfer of land from the State and County to Auburn will allow the City more oversight in the upkeep and safety of the area. Auburn officials plan to increase litter pickup, maintain the land by removing invasive blackberry bushes, and provide more police presence in the area.