Seastside Newsletter #64

Bellevue:

News:

• City of Bellevue Launches $150K Fund for Community Events in Public Spaces: Bellevue has introduced the 2025 Community Programming Fund, offering $150,000 to support creative, community-driven events in public spaces. Up to $100,000 is allocated for projects along the Grand Connection corridor and $50,000 for other city areas. Individuals, nonprofits, small businesses, and community groups can apply for up to $15,000 per project for programs like performances, vendor fairs, or pop-up installations. Applications are open through July 28 or until funds are used. (info)

• Councilmember stepping down to focus on family council to appoint new member for partial term: Bellevue City Councilmember John Stokes has decided to resign from his Position 1 seat effective May 2, prioritizing family commitments after 14 years of service. Stokes, who previously served as mayor, cited personal reasons, including moving to Ballard to be closer to his daughter and newborn granddaughter. His departure will leave an open seat, prompting the council to convene an executive session on April 15 to review candidates for the position. The council recently filled another vacancy with Claire Sumadiwirya, and the new appointee will serve until the November General Election. Stokes has been an advocate for education, the arts, and environmental initiatives throughout his tenure. The upcoming election will also include other council positions, reinforcing the ongoing civic engagement in Bellevue. (info)

• Bellevue Faces Rising Traffic Fatalities Amid 'Vision Zero' Commitment: During a recent Bellevue City Council meeting, members discussed the alarming rise in traffic fatalities, which contradicts the city's 'Vision Zero' initiative to eliminate such incidents by 2030. Councilmember Conrad Lee called for a deeper analysis into the reasons behind this trend, highlighting the challenges posed by growing traffic speeds and limited resources. A community survey presented by Eastside Urbanism showcased the public's priorities for enhanced street safety, including protected bike lanes and improved public transportation. In response, city staff outlined planned actions such as a road safety audit and a review of the automated speed enforcement program. The council's focus on these issues reflects urgent concerns for Bellevue residents' safety. As strategies are developed, the community's desire for tangible actions remains a priority. (From Bellevue City Council Meeting)

• City surveys community about human services needs: The City of Bellevue is actively engaging its community to assess human services needs through an online survey available until April 30, 2025. This data collection effort is critical for the upcoming 2025 Human Services Needs Update, which will guide funding allocations for essential services. The city emphasizes the importance of diverse representation, encouraging participation from individuals across various backgrounds. Hard copies of the survey can be accessed at multiple community centers and City Hall. The findings will help identify gaps in services related to shelter, behavioral health treatment, and support for vulnerable populations. This initiative reflects Bellevue's commitment to addressing the evolving needs of its residents. (info)

Events:

• A Night of Style and Fashion Masterclass & Runway Fashion Show on April 13th. (info)

• Easter Swing 2025 on April 17th. (info)

• Samena Spring Festival on April 18th. (info)

• Victims of Love - Eagles Tribute- Bake's Place Bar & Bistro (Bellevue) on April 19th. (info)

• Sip, Connect & Win: An Exclusive Networking Event Elevating Connections in Bellevue’s Construction industry on April 24th. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

• Bothell City Council Discusses Traffic Safety Improvements: During the April 2, 2025, meeting, the Bothell City Council highlighted significant improvements in traffic safety, particularly in school zones, through the implementation of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) and red light cameras. Captain John Rogers reported a noticeable reduction in speeding citations, with most violations coming from neighboring cities. Concerns about court resource management were raised, prompting the allocation of temporary resources. The council is committed to ongoing monitoring and will reconvene in June for further policy discussions. Community engagement is deemed crucial, with plans for informational sessions to clarify the ALPR system's benefits. Overall, the council's efforts reflect a commitment to public safety and community involvement. (From Bothell City Council Meeting)

• Bothell City Council Reviews State Budget's Impact on Local Projects: The Bothell City Council recently reviewed state budget proposals, raising concerns about funding disparities for local initiatives. The House budget allocates $1.5 million for the Woodcrest Utility Improvement Project, while the Senate budget provides no funding. Additionally, the Senate proposes $400,000 for the 80th Avenue Shared Use Path—absent from the House version. Governor Inslee’s stance against a wealth tax and emphasis on maintaining a healthy rainy day fund add complexity to funding negotiations. The council also discussed state legislation promoting housing development, with budget outcomes expected to heavily impact Bothell’s infrastructure and growth. (From Bothell City Council Meeting)

• Kenmore Planning Commission Discusses Middle Housing Code Changes: The Kenmore Planning Commission met to deliberate on significant changes to the Middle Housing Code, focusing on parking requirements, density standards, and exemptions for smaller housing units. The discussions highlighted a desire for flexibility in parking requirements, with some commissioners suggesting developers should assess their own needs. Concerns were raised about the complexities of residential zone development standards and their implications for housing density. The commission also considered exemptions for units sized at 1,200 square feet or less to encourage smaller housing options. No formal votes were taken, but the discussions pave the way for clearer recommendations. The next public session is scheduled for April 15th to continue addressing community feedback. (From Kenmore City Council Meeting)

• Kenmore Council Discusses Missing Middle Housing Regulations: At its April 1, 2025 meeting, the Kenmore City Council examined zoning and height rules for missing middle housing, with the Planning Commission favoring Option B—reduced setbacks with lower height limits to preserve neighborhood character. Councilmembers voiced concerns about over-density and suggested alternatives like single-family homes with ADUs. The discussion also highlighted the need for infrastructure upgrades to support higher density and encouraged cottage housing by reducing parking requirements. The council emphasized balancing housing diversity with the community’s identity. (From Kenmore City Council Meeting)

Events:

• Break Even Bottle Program – Every Tuesday at The Cottage! on April 8th. (info)

• Bothell Business Forum on April 9th. (info)

• I Want It That Way: 90s/2000s Dance Party at McMenamins on April 11th. (info)

• History Pub at McMenamins on April 29th. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

• Enchanted Farms Offers New Summer Camp Program: Enchanted Farms in Duvall is launching its first-ever summer camps for kids ages 6–13, running weekly from late June through August. Started in 2020 by Dave and Nicole Dempster, the five-acre farm features interactive experiences with goats, alpacas, donkeys, sheep, and rabbits. Campers will learn about animal care, participate in farm chores, explore alpaca fleece through needle felting, and may even witness baby animals being born. Each weeklong camp is $425, with optional add-ons. (info)

• The Ross Report – March 2025: Snoqualmie Mayor Katherine Ross participated in First Aid, CPR, and AED training alongside city staff as part of ongoing emergency preparedness. She celebrated local businesses at the SnoValley Chamber’s "Best of the Best" event, where several Snoqualmie establishments were honored. Mayor Ross also testified before the State House Transportation Committee in support of SR 18 widening and successfully advocated before the King County Growth Management Planning Council to lower Snoqualmie’s housing growth target. The month concluded with a City Council retreat to kick off a new strategic plan and site visits to the Community Park Splashpad and Water Reclamation Facility. (info)

• Snoqualmie’s Housing Growth Target Cut in Half with GMPC Approval
  On March 26, 2025, the King County Growth Management Planning Council unanimously approved Snoqualmie’s request to lower its housing growth target from 1,500 to 719 units. The change, based on a 2023 city study showing limited developable land due to environmental and floodplain constraints, now awaits final approval by the King County Council. Mayor Katherine Ross led the year-long advocacy effort, and the city plans to continue supporting affordable and middle housing options through zoning updates and tax exemption programs. (info)

Events:

• Teen Flashlight Hunt on April 18th. (info)

• Bunny Hop Egg Hunt on April 19th. (info)

• Snoqualmie Arbor Day Celebration on April 26th. (info)

   

Issaquah:

News:

• No new news this week!

Events:

• Blossom & Rise: A Full Moon Sound Journey on April 12th. (info)

• Green Issaquah: Earth Day Event at Park Pointe on April 19th. (info)

• Issaquah Rotary's Grape Escape on April 23rd. (info)

• 3rd Annual Sustainability Fair on April 26th. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Community in the Spotlight at Annual Community Appreciation Event: The Annual Community Appreciation Event is scheduled for April 1, 2025, at the Kirkland Performance Center in Media, Pennsylvania. Hosted by local leaders, including Penny Sweet, the event aims to celebrate the community's achievements and foster connections among residents. It serves as a platform for recognizing businesses and individuals who contribute positively to the local economy and housing market. The event is part of a broader initiative to strengthen community ties and encourage civic engagement. Attendees can expect discussions on local economic growth and future opportunities. This gathering not only appreciates past contributions but also looks forward to a vibrant community future. (info)

• Kirkland Council Focuses on Affordable Housing and School Capacity in Latest Meeting: During a recent meeting, the Kirkland City Council prioritized affordable housing and its implications for school capacity. Council members stressed the importance of flexible zoning regulations to accommodate evolving economic conditions. They explored innovative solutions, such as utilizing faith-based properties for affordable housing. Concerns were raised regarding the potential impact of new housing developments on local schools. Councilmember Amy Falcone highlighted the need to understand how housing plans affect school demographics. The council agreed to engage further with the school district to align zoning decisions with accurate student enrollment projections. (From Kirkland City Council Meeting)

• Kirkland Appeals Environmental Impact Statement for Recycling Station: Kirkland officials have filed an appeal against the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for King County's Northeast Regional Recycling Transfer Station, citing significant procedural and substantive issues. City Manager Scott MacColl discussed the appeal process during the latest council meeting, detailing errors in the FEIS. He emphasized the city's dedication to transparency and public involvement, with plans to provide updates and engage the community. A dedicated webpage has been established to inform residents about the appeal process and answer questions. Councilmember Neal Black raised concerns about the accessibility of the website to ensure residents can find necessary information easily. (From Kirkland City Council Meeting)

Events:

• Solarize Eastside - Kirkland Workshop on April 8th. (info)

• Live Pitch Finale on April 9th. (info)

• Wheels and Reels - Gran Turismo on April 12th. (info)

• Home Run Hangout on April 19th. (info)

• 2025 State of the City Address and Community Appreciation Night on May 13. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Islanders Raise $6,000 for Food Security at Mercer Island Recycling Event: During the city of Mercer Island’s recycling event on March 29, volunteers from the Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (MIYFS) Foundation collected over $6,000 in donations to support local food security programs. Dressed in blue aprons, the volunteers stood ready as residents arrived with checks, cash, and gift cards in hand to contribute before heading to recycle. The MIYFS Foundation praised the community’s consistent generosity at this biannual event, which helps ensure Islanders in need have access to essential resources. (info)

• Mercer Island Voters to Decide on Islander Middle School Bond for Expansion and Modernization: The Mercer Island School District is seeking voter approval on an April 22 bond measure to fund a major addition to Islander Middle School. The proposed project includes 28 new classrooms—10 of which are science labs—expanding learning opportunities and accommodating student growth. The plan also features a centralized building entry for improved security, a new performing arts and multi-purpose assembly space, and sustainable design upgrades. During construction, students will remain in the 200/300 buildings and the 2015/16 facility, minimizing disruption. A relocated library will remain part of the school, with small group learning areas included. If approved, bonds would be issued in 2026 with payments totaling $231.4 million through 2040. The project is designed to support instructional continuity while aligning with community and educational needs. (info)

• Mercer Island School Board Discusses Budget Reductions and Hi-Cap Plan Approval: At its March 27 meeting, the Mercer Island School Board addressed a projected $3 million budget shortfall, proposing a Reduction in Force (RIF) of 8.1 certificated FTE positions, with additional classified staff cuts expected. Board members raised concerns over student-facing role reductions, particularly school nurses. The board also approved the 2024–2025 Highly Capable (Hi-Cap) instructional plan in a 4-1 vote, amid debate over student growth metrics. Facility updates highlighted campus safety improvements, with plans to redesign Islander Middle School's layout for greater security. Public comment featured strong advocacy for retaining librarians and nurses, expanding Native American curriculum, and supporting the April 22 school bond. (info)

Events:

• Leap for Green Sustainability Fair on April 5th. (info)

• Mercer Island Connect: Networking Luncheon on April 10th. (info)

• Prospective City Council Candidate Workshop on April 24th. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Redmond Launches Community Engagement for Teen Services: The City of Redmond is set to launch a comprehensive engagement process to better meet the needs of its current and future teens. Running from April through June 2025, this initiative aims to gather feedback from teens, families, and community members. Mayor Angela Birney highlighted the importance of youth voices in ensuring that programs remain relevant and empowering. The engagement includes collaboration with the Redmond Youth Partnership Advisory Committee (RYPAC) to prioritize youth perspectives. A community meeting will be held later in the spring to allow teens to share their insights directly. Additionally, residents can participate through an online questionnaire and at various community events throughout the spring. (info)

• Light Rail Extension into Downtown Redmond Set to Open May 10: Redmond is preparing to celebrate the long-awaited opening of the Link 2 Line extension, adding 3.4 miles of new light rail track with stations at Marymoor Village and downtown Redmond. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 10:30 a.m. on May 10, with passenger service beginning at noon. The expansion includes a 1,400-stall parking garage at Marymoor Village, proximity to Redmond Town Center, and bike parking at both stations. Mayor Angela Birney, also a Sound Transit Board Member, emphasized the decades of community planning behind the project, which will offer trains every 10 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and eventually connect to Mercer Island and the 1 Line. (info)

Events:

• FRIED CHICKEN & CHAMPAGNE Adult Nonfiction Event on April 8th. (info)

• Redmond Town Center Exotics Car Show on April 12th. (info)

• Pup Crawl Parade Celebration on April 12th. (info)

• Eggcellent at the Farm on April 19th. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Renton Launches First-Ever Zero Waste Plan to Cut Landfill Use: The City of Renton has unveiled its inaugural Zero Waste Plan, a 10-year strategy to significantly reduce landfill contributions by boosting recycling, composting, and reuse. Developed by the Public Works Department’s Sustainability & Solid Waste Section, the plan aims to address the looming closure of the Cedar Hills Regional Landfill—expected to reach capacity in just 15 years. The plan outlines eight key goals and 40 strategies, such as improving curbside recycling participation and supporting resident repair programs. Residents are invited to review the full plan and provide feedback by June 30 via the Your Voice Renton platform. (info)

• Renton Seniors Invited to Apply for Utility Tax Rebate Program: From April 15 to June 15, eligible Renton seniors can apply for the city’s Utility Tax Rebate program. Applicants must be age 61 or older or permanently disabled, reside in Renton, be a property owner or registered tenant, and meet household income limits. Applications can be submitted online at rentonwa.gov/utilitybilling or in person at Renton City Hall. This rebate helps reduce utility costs for qualifying seniors (info)

• Everett Man Sentenced to Nearly 30 Years for 2020 Renton Shooting: Jacob D. Little of Everett was sentenced on April 4 to over 29.5 years in prison for a 2020 Renton shooting that killed 25-year-old D’Andre Deshawn Flynn and injured a 15-year-old boy. Convicted of second-degree murder and first-degree assault with weapon enhancements, Little had previously served time for stealing a police rifle during 2020 protests in Seattle. The Renton shooting occurred at a car meet where Little fired into a crowd after fights broke out. Social media videos helped identify him, and new footage later confirmed Flynn’s fatal shooting. (info)

• Renton Teen Escapes Stalker Near High School, Police Seek Suspect: Renton police are searching for a man who stalked a 17-year-old girl near Lindbergh High School on March 31. The suspect, driving a white hatchback sedan, followed the teen for two minutes and made inappropriate comments before she safely fled into the school and alerted an adult. Police say the man may be charged with attempting to communicate with a minor for immoral purposes and are asking neighbors to review security footage from around 9 a.m. that day. Concerned parents say the school did not alert families, prompting calls for increased campus security. (info)

Events:

• Community Garage Sale on April 12th at 9am. (info)

• Dragon's Landing Celebration on April 13th. (info)

• What’s Brewing with Ed – Conversations with Renton’s CAO on April 16th. (info)

• StartUp425: Creative Economy and Your Business on April 24th at 2pm. (info)

• 2025 Arbor Day-Storm Drain Marking Project on April 26th. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Regional Road and Utility Updates Impacting Sammamish: From April 9–11, crews will inspect and clean stormwater pipes along Issaquah Pine Road between 228th Avenue Southeast and Southeast 32nd Way, with minimal traffic disruption expected due to occasional single-lane closures. While the City of Sammamish has suspended new permits for Ziply Fiber, the company is still allowed to complete restoration work from prior construction, including sidewalk, asphalt, and soft surface repairs. Additionally, a City of Redmond development project will temporarily close 187th Avenue Northeast near the Sammamish city limit between East Lake Sammamish Parkway NE and NE 53rd Street starting January 29, 2025, for approximately eight working days. The closure, related to The Cove short plat project, will operate weekdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and may affect local traffic in nearby neighborhoods. (info)

• Sammamish City Council Weighs Affordable Housing Bonus Pool Against Building Heights: The council discussed how building height limits and density regulations impact the affordable unit bonus pool, emphasizing a careful balance between affordability outcomes and preventing windfalls for developers. Councilmembers also explored tying density increases directly to affordable housing requirements to ensure diverse and equitable growth. (info)

Events:

• Beaver Lake Management District Advisory Board Meeting on April 7th. (info)

• Earth Day 2025 on April 19th. (info)

• Spring Native Plant Sale on April 26th. (info)

• Run/Walk for Recovery on May 10th. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Woodinville City Council Champions Regional Partnerships and Cascadia College Project: During the April 4, 2025 meeting, the Woodinville City Council emphasized the importance of regional partnerships in addressing local needs. Unanimously, council members supported Cascadia College's CC5 Gateway building project, which aims to consolidate student support services. Members acknowledged that the college, despite being located in Bothell, significantly benefits Woodinville residents. Councilman David Edwards stated that supporting the college fosters long-term growth for the community. The council also celebrated securing $5 million from the state budget and preventing a transfer station from relocating to Woodinville. Mayor Mike Millman reinforced the need to maintain strong regional relationships for future successes. (From Woodinville City Council Meeting)

• Woodinville Considers Interim Zoning to Address Housing Affordability: In response to the region's affordable housing crisis, the Woodinville City Council is weighing the adoption of interim zoning regulations to support affordable housing development while avoiding potential legal conflicts over property rights. At a recent meeting, councilmembers debated the risks of implementing a moratorium, which could trigger 'takings claims' from property owners. The City Attorney advised that interim zoning would provide a balanced solution, allowing projects to move forward under revised affordability requirements. While views varied on the most effective path to affordability, the council expressed general support for a broader strategy and plans to review a proposed ordinance on May 6. (From Woodinville City Council Meeting)

• Woodinville City Council Approves City Manager Contract Changes and Domain Upgrade: The Woodinville City Council recently approved updates to the City Manager’s contract, including a six-month post-election “cooling-off” period restricting termination and extending the severance package from nine to twelve months. While Mayor Mike Millman supported the revisions for the sake of continuity in leadership, Councilmember Al Taylor voiced concerns over limiting newly elected officials’ authority. The council also celebrated the tentative acquisition of the domain name woodinville.gov, a move aimed at improving the city’s digital identity. City staff will implement the contract updates and begin the domain transition. (From Woodinville City Council Meeting)

Events:

• Restaurant Week at Walla Walla Steak Co Woodinville on April 8th. (info)

• Live Entertainment at Fireside Lounge on April 9th. (info)

• Boots and Brews Line Dancing on April 10th. (info)

• Yoga + Wine at Sparkman Cellars on April 13th. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

• 4/15 Volunteer at NE Sammamish Park on April 15th. (info)

• Volunteer Evans Creek Preserve on May 3rd. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• TOASTED. in Bellevue is a newly opened Bagels & Coffee spot! They have amazing bagels as well as perfect coffee pairings.

Vibes:

• The weather this week looks to be a classic spring mix—light rain and mid-50s through Wednesday, so keep that umbrella handy. But don’t worry, by the weekend the sun breaks through, and we’ll be basking in blue skies and highs in the low 70s—perfect weather for a walk, a baseball game, or pretending it’s already summer.

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