The King County Council on Monday unanimously approved a new name for King County Water District No. 111.

To identify with the most geographic feature within the district – and to avoid confusion and misidentification as a sub-agency of King County – the new name is the Lake Meridian Water District, which includes portions of Auburn, Kent and Covington.

“The district requested a name change that reflects an important part of the community they serve. I’m very glad to support their effort,” said Council member Reagan Dunn.

“It’s always important for a community to feel connected to its government,” said Council member Pete von Reichbauer. “This ordinance allows the water district to continue providing critical services while further enhancing its connection to the people it serves.”

“I was happy to support a proposal to make the water district’s name more user friendly,” said Council member Dave Upthegrove.

Dunn, Upthegrove and von Reichbauer all represent portions of the water district.

Water Districts are responsible for providing and managing water in King County. That means the district provides water for drinking, plumbing, bathing, and watering yards to name a few uses.

“King County Water District No. 111 is an asset that belongs to the people it serves. Lake Meridian, located in the center of the district, is a prominent part of our community,” said Patrick Hanis, commissioner from Water District 111. “The name change to Lake Meridian Water District reflects that the district is an important member of the community providing, safe, clean and abundant water to its customers.”

Under state law, a water district may seek a name change, but it requires the council’s approval to formalize it. With the King County Council’s approval, the name change will become effective starting Jan. 1, 2019.