Seastside Newsletter #70

Bellevue:

News:

• Council Roundup Update on middle housing and Meydenbauer Bay Park expansion: Bellevue City Council reviewed proposed amendments to the land use code to facilitate middle housing development in response to new state laws. The legislation requires cities to allow various housing types, enhancing affordability and supply. The council also directed staff to provide more information on the expansion of Meydenbauer Bay Park, which is expected to improve pedestrian access to the area. This expansion will connect the park to downtown and includes community input from recent surveys. Additionally, the council approved a federal legislative agenda focused on transportation, infrastructure, and housing priorities. Members plan to meet with federal representatives in June to discuss these initiatives. (info)

• Bellevue woman mourns husband killed in deadly North Cascades climbing accident: Olga Martynenko is grieving the loss of her husband, Alex, who died in a climbing accident in the North Cascades, along with two other men. The couple, who emigrated from Ukraine, moved to Washington six years ago, where Alex developed a passion for climbing. Olga received a final text message from him just before the accident, unaware it would be their last communication. After noticing a tracking device stalled during his climb, she learned of his passing when police arrived at her door on Mother's Day. Friends have launched a fundraiser to help cover funeral costs and support for their five-year-old son, Daniel. Olga remembers Alex as a bright and responsible man who sought to improve the world around him. (info)

• Youth Link announces Community Leadership Award winners: Youth Link announced the winners of its Community Leadership Awards on May 16, 2025, highlighting the achievements of local youth. Ishaan Mishra of Sammamish High School received special recognition for his impactful community service. Other award recipients included representatives from the City of Vallejo and Oromocto Sports & Recreation. The awards celebrate young leaders who make significant contributions to their communities. This event emphasizes the importance of youth engagement in fostering positive change. Local leaders believe such initiatives inspire future generations to take active roles in community service. (info)

• Bellevue to host Pride on the Plaza celebration June 4: In honor of Pride Month, the City of Bellevue and Pride Across the Bridge will host Pride on the Plaza at Bellevue City Hall on June 4 from noon to 2 p.m. The free event features music, food, performances, and a pride flag raising ceremony with remarks from city leaders and a keynote by Edgar Longoria of Entre Hermanos. Community members can also visit LGBTQIA+ resource tables. Bellevue will display Pride banners downtown throughout June and co-host the Paws and Pride Dog Walk on May 31. The City Council will issue a Pride Month proclamation on June 3. (info)

Events:

• Bellevue Farmers Market on May 22nd. (info)

• Tuesday Trivia at Evergreen Point Bistro on May 27th. (info)

• Celebrate Pride Month on June 4th. (info)

Bothell & Kenmore:

News:

• No new news this week!!

Events:

• The Starter Gardener - A Garden Workshop for Beginners on May 20th. (info)

• Startup 425 - Startup & Small Business CoWorking on May 21st. (info)

• All Night Happy Hour at The Cottage on May 22nd. (info)

• UW Bothell Block Party and Brewfest on May 31st. (info)

Fall City & Snoqualmie:

News:

• Help Shape the Future of Snoqualmie City Launches Community-wide Survey: The City of Snoqualmie will launch the National Community Survey on May 19, 2025, to gather resident feedback for its inaugural strategic plan. The survey will assess government services and measure the community quality of life. Randomly selected households will receive survey invitations by mail, with the survey opening to all residents in mid-June. Mayor Katherine Ross expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity for residents to share their opinions on city services and performance. The National Research Center at Polco developed the survey, covering various aspects of livability in Snoqualmie. The survey will close on June 30, 2025, and results will help identify community strengths and areas for improvement. (info)

• Duvalls SummerStage Turns 25 with a Star-Studded Season at McCormick Park: The City of Duvall will celebrate the 25th anniversary of its SummerStage concert series at McCormick Park, starting July 9, 2025. The opening act, Prom Date Mixtape, will perform an '80s tribute, followed by a diverse range of artists throughout the summer. The series will conclude on August 9 with a special performance by country music star Austin Jenckes. Mayor Amy Ockerlander expressed excitement about the lineup, highlighting its community-building aspect. Each concert will offer complimentary giveaways and unique merchandise designed by local students. Food trucks and a Beer and Wine Garden will enhance the family-friendly atmosphere. (info)

• The Ballot Is Set Whos Running for Mayor, Council, and More in the Snoqualmie Valley: King County Elections has finalized the list of candidates for upcoming races in the Snoqualmie Valley, including North Bend and Snoqualmie councils and mayoral positions. Incumbents in Duvall and Snoqualmie face no challengers, while North Bend will see former mayor Rob McFarland run for Council Position No. 2. The city of Snoqualmie has a competitive mayoral race with four candidates vying for the position. Other contested races include multiple council positions in Duvall and Carnation, highlighting an active election season. The summer primary will occur on August 5, followed by the general election on November 4. For a complete list of candidates, visit King County Elections. (info)

• Snoqualmie Valley School Buses to Help Power the Grid in PSEs New Energy Partnership: Puget Sound Energy (PSE) partners with local school districts to transform electric school buses into mobile power sources. Funded by a $612,000 grant from the Washington Department of Commerce, this innovative project allows buses to return power to the grid during peak demand. The initiative not only reduces operational costs for participating districts but also enhances the sustainability of school transportation. PSE's Chief Customer and Transformation Officer highlighted the project's role in deploying innovative grid solutions. The Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) system will be operational by the 2025-2026 school year, utilizing fast chargers to facilitate energy exchange. This collaboration demonstrates a commitment to cleaner energy and provides students with hands-on lessons in sustainability. (info)

Events:

• 'Crow Strut' Corks & Canvas @ Sigillo Cellars on May 21st. (info)

• Community Cleanups on May 21st. (info)

• Snoqualmie Valley Connect Business Networking on May 22nd. (info)

• May 2025 Chamber Luncheon on May 28th. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Growth Development in Issaquah Highlands: IHIF Commercial has commenced construction on a 21.5-acre site at Ninth Avenue and Discovery Drive, expected to enhance local commerce. Lakeside Industries plans to redevelop 30 acres near the Issaquah Highlands Park & Ride, adding 1,400 rental units and 100,000 square feet of commercial space. Bellevue College is reassessing its land along College Drive, considering leasing it to residential developers rather than building a new campus. The college aims to generate revenue while retaining control over the property. Construction for Lakeside Industries is set to begin in 2025-26, while IHIF Commercial's project is already underway. These developments signal growth in infrastructure and housing options for the Issaquah Highlands community. (info)

Events:

• Alfresco Open Mic Night on May 21st. (info)

• Spring Into Fitness - LES MILLS GRIT Cardio on May 24th. (info)

• “Essence of Art” Gallery Reception on May 24th. (info)

• Issaquah Adult Softball League starts on May 27th. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Kirkland Mayor delivers 2025 State of the City Address highlighting growth, equity, and community spirit: On May 15, Mayor Kelli Curtis delivered Kirkland’s 2025 State of the City address during the newly combined Community Appreciation Night. Mayor Curtis celebrated major accomplishments, including public safety investments, park expansions, infrastructure improvements, and housing growth. She emphasized Kirkland’s economic vitality, welcoming spirit, and status as Washington’s first certified Welcoming City. Looking forward, priorities include partnering on a new iceplex and community center, exploring year-round pool access, implementing a homelessness response plan, and updating the DEIB roadmap. Mayor Curtis concluded by calling on residents to keep “building community, together.” (info)

Events:

• Kirkland Library Book Club on May 21st.

• 7 Hills of Kirkland Bike Ride on May 27th. (info)

• Recycling Collection event on May 31st. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Mercer Island School Board reviews staffing cuts, responds to bond failure, and celebrates student achievements: At its May 8 meeting, the Mercer Island School Board addressed declining enrollment and approved staffing reductions, including a significant shift from certificated librarians to library aides. Superintendent Fred Rundle proposed a third-party survey to better understand voter rejection of the recent $165 million bond. Tensions arose during public comment, with one speaker alleging misconduct by board members and others defending the board's transparency. The board also recognized the Mercer Island High School Drill Team for winning three state titles and honored staff on School Communicators Day. Future funding strategies and a proposed policy to limit immigration enforcement on school grounds were also discussed. (info)

Events:

• Mercer Island Rotary Meeting on May 20th. (info)

• Blood Drive Bloodworks NW on May 28th. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Redmond Police seek community reps for force investigation team: The Redmond Police Department is inviting Redmond residents to apply for two voluntary roles on the Independent Force Investigation Team of King County (IFIT-KC), which investigates police use of deadly force. An information session will be held June 2 at 4 p.m. at the Redmond Police Department, with applications open from June 3–10. Selected members will serve two-year terms and participate in independent oversight under Washington's 2019 Law Enforcement Training and Community Safety Act (LETCSA), aimed at improving transparency and accountability in law enforcement. (info)

• Redmond seeks applicant for Parks, Trails, and Recreation Commission: The City of Redmond is accepting applications to fill a one-year mid-term vacancy on its Parks, Trails, and Recreation Commission. Open to residents in the 98052 zip code, the role offers a chance to shape public policies, guide recreational programming, and represent community interests in monthly meetings held the first Thursday at 6:30 p.m. The position may be renewed for a full three-year term. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27. (info)

Events:

• OneEastside Economic Outlook on May 21st. (info)

• Latin Dance Party on May 22nd. (info)

• Art Reception on May 23rd. (info)

• Redmond Saturday Market on May 24th. (info)

• Summer Concerts at Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery on May 25th. (info)

Renton:

News:

• 14-year-old arrested in Federal Way fatal shooting, 13-year-old wanted: A 14-year-old boy was arrested by Federal Way police in connection with a homicide that occurred on May 3 at Uptown Apartments. The victim, a 20-year-old man, died at the scene after being shot multiple times. Police have identified another suspect, a 13-year-old girl, who is still wanted. The incident was captured on video and stemmed from a dispute that took place shortly before the shooting. The arrested boy was taken into custody in Renton and booked into the King County Youth Detention Facility, but his specific charges are currently unknown. Authorities urge anyone with information about the case or the whereabouts of the second suspect to contact the Federal Way Police Department. (info)

• 3 Renton climbers die in Okanogan County, WA: A climbing accident in central Washington resulted in the deaths of three Renton residents on May 11. The incident occurred about 16 miles west of Mazama, near North Early Winters Spire. Okanogan County Sheriff's Office reports that an anchor failure while rappelling likely caused the fall. One climber survived and managed to call for assistance. The Snohomish County Helicopter Rescue Team was deployed to recover the deceased climbers. The sheriff's office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. (info)

Events:

• StartUp 425 Business Networking Event on May 22nd. (info)

• Memorial Day Ceremony on May 26th. (info)

• Renton Artwalk 2025 on May 28th. (info)

• Renton Hill Neighborhood BBQ on May 30th. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Sammamish to repurpose former CWU building for short-term use: With Central Washington University set to end its lease on July 1, Sammamish City Council has directed staff to transition the City-owned facility to short-term use for current subtenants and begin exploring long-term options. A 2022 assessment identified $5 million in baseline maintenance needs over 15 years. While staffing and operational costs currently exceed the City’s capacity, a long-term use plan—shaped with community input—will be considered during the 2026 workplan and mid-biennial budget process later this fall. (info)

• Sammamish Traffic Updates: Stormwater pipe inspections will take place May 19–23 along 240th Pl SE to SE Issaquah–Fall City Rd, with minimal single-lane closures expected. The Louis Thompson Tightline Project continues through June 20, limiting the road to southbound traffic only between SE 5th St and East Lake Sammamish Parkway. Northbound drivers must use posted detours. PSE’s gas main replacement work across multiple streets will last at least two more months, causing occasional delays and traffic control. Work occurs weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (info)

• Station 82 remodel addresses safety and accessibility issues: After its first major renovation in 35 years, Fire Station 82 officially reopened on March 27 with critical upgrades addressing health, safety, and accessibility concerns. The $8 million project, funded by the City of Sammamish, included separate gear storage to reduce carcinogen exposure, updated sprinklers, a new heating system, and gender-neutral bathrooms. Private sleeping quarters and a second-floor bathroom were also added to improve daily life for firefighters. Station 82 is one of 16 Eastside Fire & Rescue locations serving 277 square miles. Firefighters expressed gratitude for the community’s support. (info)

Events:

• Solarize Community Workshop on May 28th. (info)

• City Council Meeting on June 3rd. (info)

• Coffee with Council on June 7th. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Woodinville launches street resurfacing project with major cost savings: The City of Woodinville will begin its annual street resurfacing project this summer, targeting roads in “fair to poor” condition, primarily in the Wellington neighborhood. The resurfacing, known as overlay, is expected to extend pavement life by 5–7 years and improve drivability. This year’s contractor bid came in 60% below the engineer’s estimate, delivering significant savings to taxpayers. In some areas, older speed bumps will be replaced with modern safety-enhancing models. The work is slated to take 6–8 weeks, with regular updates shared online and via resident notifications. (info)

Events:

• Teen Craft Hangout: Knit and Crochet on May 23rd at the Woodinville Library.

• Woodinville Market Fair on May 24th. (info)

• Planning Commission Meeting on May 26th. (info)

• 3rd Annual Pollinator Fest on May 31st. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar – Bellevue, WA: Seastar is the kind of place where you go to impress your in-laws or celebrate a promotion. The seafood is impeccably fresh—think Dungeness crab bisque and sushi that rivals Tokyo's best—and the wine list is extensive enough to make a sommelier blush. Yes, it's pricey, but for a special occasion, it's worth every penny.

• Five Hooks Seafood – Issaquah, WA: Five Hooks is a no-frills seafood spot that delivers big on flavor. Their fish and chips are crispy, golden, and served with a side of nostalgia, while the clam chowder is rich and comforting. It's the kind of place where the food does all the talking—and it's saying, "come back soon."

Vibes:

• This week in Bellevue, Washington, spring is offering its classic mix of rain and shine. Monday and Tuesday bring light rain and overcast skies, with highs around 60. Midweek sees a gradual warm-up, with Thursday reaching 65 under partly cloudy skies. Friday and Saturday continue the trend with highs in the mid-60s and a chance of showers. Sunday looks to be the standout, with plenty of sunshine and a high of 73—perfect for outdoor plans.

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