Seastside Newsletter #73

Bellevue:

News:

• Council Advances Meydenbauer Bay Park Phase 2 and Innovation Policy Framework: At its June 4 meeting, Bellevue City Council voted to move forward with architectural and engineering design for Meydenbauer Bay Park Phase 2. Planned upgrades include a new Gateway Plaza, expanded parking, a Canopy Walk, and an interim promenade trail, with an emphasis on minimizing construction impacts, maintaining bay views, and ensuring accessibility. Council also gave unanimous guidance on a draft Inclusive Innovation Forum policy framework, which aims to streamline public-private pilot projects, support digital equity, and foster a stronger startup ecosystem. Additionally, the Council recognized five city departments for maintaining elite national accreditations and issued proclamations for Pride Month and Men’s Health Week (June 9–15). (info)

• Bellevue staff and police discuss hate crimes and bias incidents with community organizations: The City of Bellevue is strengthening efforts against hate crimes and bias incidents by building partnerships with community organizations. A recent panel discussion facilitated by Dr. Marcus Johnson gathered city staff and over 40 local nonprofits to address community needs. Dr. Linda Whitehead, the city's chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer, highlighted the importance of sharing critical information to foster a community response. Police Chief Wendell Shirley noted the necessity of trust and collaboration among community partners to hold offenders accountable. The panel also defined hate crimes and bias incidents, stressing the need for community members to report such occurrences. (info)

• Fire Closes NE 8th Street Near Crossroads Mall on June 2: Bellevue Fire responded to a strip mall fire Monday morning across from Crossroads Mall, prompting the closure of NE 8th Street east of 158th Avenue NE. No injuries were reported. Crews accessed a second hydrant to combat the flames, temporarily shutting down both directions of NE 8th Street. Drivers were advised to avoid the area during response efforts. (info)

• Vulcan Lists Downtown Bellevue Development Site for Sale: Vulcan Real Estate has put its planned mixed-use site at 10588 NE 2nd Street on the market, listed as “Filament” through CBRE. Originally envisioned as a two-building apartment and retail project—Filament East and Filament West—the site was approved for 302 residential units and ground-floor retail but never broke ground. Vulcan cited a need to rebalance its portfolio after recent major investments. The listing highlights continued developer interest in Bellevue, even as some projects adjust to changing market conditions. (info)

Events:

• Tuesday Trivia at Evergreen Point Bistro on June 10th. (info)

• Bellevue Farmers Market on June 12th. (info) 

• Lake to Lake Bike Ride on June 14th. (info)

• State of the City on June 24th. (info)

Bothell & Kenmore:

News:

• Deepti Agrawal Named Bothell’s 2025 Fourth of July Parade Grand Marshal: Internationally renowned artist and community leader Deepti Agrawal will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal, honoring her decades of work in cultural preservation, youth mentorship, and public art. A Governor’s Arts & Heritage Award recipient, Agrawal has taught and exhibited Madhubani folk art for over 30 years while transforming Bothell’s cultural landscape through education, economic empowerment, and large-scale public murals. Her nonprofit work has supported mental wellness and given local artists platforms at major institutions like the Seattle Art Museum and Microsoft. (info)

• "Wildest Dreams" Exhibition Celebrates Immigrant Heritage Through Art: The City of Bothell Arts Commission presents Wildest Dreams, a moving group exhibition at Bothell City Hall Gallery that honors immigrant experiences and ancestral dreams. Curated by Rya Wu, the show features work from over 20 artists exploring themes of identity, heritage, and possibility. The exhibition runs throughout June, with a free Closing Celebration on Saturday, June 28 from 2–6 p.m., including live performances, an artist market, and a panel discussion. Held during Immigrant Heritage Month, Wildest Dreams invites the community to reflect on the legacies that shape who we are. (info)

Events:

• Pride Night on June 13th. (info)

• Startup 425 - Startup & Small Business CoWorking on June 18th. (info)

• Bothell Pet Fair & Free Vaccines on June 20th. (info)

• Wildest Dreams closing ceremony on June 28th. (info)

Fall City & Snoqualmie:

News:

• Body Recovered from Snoqualmie River; Investigation Ongoing: On June 7, Snoqualmie Police responded to a report of a body seen in the Snoqualmie River near Riverview Park. Officers secured the area and worked with King County Search and Rescue and the Dive Team to recover the deceased male. The investigation remains active as the Snoqualmie Police Department and King County Medical Examiner’s Office work to identify the individual and determine the circumstances of his death. Anyone with information is urged to contact SPD at 425-888-3333. (info)

• Amy McHenry’s Campaign for Duvall Mayor Gains Momentum with Labor Endorsement: Duvall City Councilmember Amy McHenry, now in her eighth year of service, has officially launched her mayoral campaign with a focus on sustainability, infrastructure, and preserving the city’s small-town character. Her campaign recently received a major boost with the endorsement of Teamsters Local Union #763, which represents Duvall city employees. Backed by more than 75 community supporters and over 20 regional leaders—including current Mayor Amy Ockerlander—McHenry aims to bring inclusive, action-oriented leadership to the Mayor’s office. (info)

• North Bend Council Greenlights Meadowbrook Sewer Construction: The North Bend City Council has unanimously approved a construction contract with Northwest Construction, Inc. to begin work on the Meadowbrook Sewer Utility Local Improvement District (ULID) project. This marks a major step in bringing public sewer service to the city’s western neighborhoods, replacing outdated septic systems and enabling future development. The phased construction will last 12 to 14 months and focus on installing new sewer lines compatible with a low-pressure grinder pump system. The project is expected to wrap up in early 2027, with connection opportunities for property owners to follow. (info)

• Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank Launches Campaign for Permanent Facility: The Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank has kicked off Building Together: A Community Without Hunger, a capital campaign to fund renovations for its newly purchased permanent home at 43530 SE North Bend Way. After years operating from a converted garage at the North Bend Community Church, the food bank now aims to expand into a facility three times larger, offering a grocery-style shopping experience, expanded cold storage, indoor waiting areas, and space for wraparound services. Renovations are expected to begin in late 2025 and finish by fall 2026. Community members can contribute through donations, volunteering, or partnership referrals. (info)

Events:

• SnoValley Innovation Center Meet-up Fridays on June 13th. (info)

• Smart Recycling Even in Carnation on June 14th. (info)

• Fire Station 20th Anniversary Celebration on June 14th. (info)

• Big Truck Day on June 26th. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Art Commons Ushers in New Creative Era in Issaquah: A collective of Eastside artists known as Art Commons is working to transform Issaquah into a vibrant destination for the arts. Formed after the success of 2024’s inaugural open studio tour, the group now includes eight multidisciplinary artists united around four core values: conversation, pluralism, innovation, and abundance. This fall, Art Commons will re-run the open studio tour on September 20, offering interactive, shop-able, and educational experiences across local studios. They’re also launching a new monthly “Creative Summit” series featuring panels, workshops, and networking events to cultivate community and creativity. (info)

• Wi-Fi Jammers Used in Seattle Athlete Home Invasions, Police Say: Authorities say Earl Riley IV and accomplices used Wi-Fi jammers to disable web-based security systems during a string of burglaries at the homes of local sports stars, including Richard Sherman, Blake Snell, and Julio Rodriguez. Court documents describe the suspects carrying signal-jamming devices during the break-ins, which are easily purchased online and capable of disabling wireless security cameras like Ring or Google. Experts say only hard-wired systems are fully secure from such interference. Riley is charged with multiple counts of residential burglary and robbery; bail is set at $1 million. (info)

Events:

• City Council Meeting on June 9th. (info)

• Complimentary Wine Sampling on June 13th. (info)

• Garage Pride 2025 on June 14th. (info)

• Fenders on Front Street on June 15th. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Kirkland City Council Meeting Highlights – June 3, 2025: The Kirkland City Council adopted a new Transportation Impact Fee schedule and discussed zoning code updates to comply with state mandates on middle housing, accessory dwelling units, parking, and design standards. During the study session, councilmembers reviewed transit needs and potential dedicated bike lane options along Central Way and Peter Kirk Park. EvergreenHealth CEO Dr. Ettore Palazzo gave a “State of Healthcare” presentation, and the Mayor issued proclamations recognizing National Gun Violence Awareness Day, Pride Month, and Ride Transit Month. (info)

• Public Hearing: Juanita Zoning Code Amendments – June 12: The Kirkland Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, June 12 at 6:00 p.m. to gather input on proposed zoning and design changes affecting the Goodwill site (9826 NE 132nd St), nearby parcels, and the Michael’s site (9755 NE Juanita Dr). Draft amendments aim to boost residential capacity—including affordable housing—enhance access to services, and improve neighborhood connectivity and sustainability. An in-person open house will precede the hearing from 4:30–5:30 p.m. at City Hall. (info)

• Celebrate Kirkland Parade Names 2025 Grand Marshal: The City of Kirkland has named longtime Little League volunteer John Chadwick as Grand Marshal of the 26th Annual Celebrate Kirkland 4th of July Parade. Chadwick has dedicated over 50 years to youth sports, serving as District Administrator for Washington District 9 and Director of the Junior League Softball World Series, which he helped bring to Kirkland in 1998. His leadership has expanded opportunities for young athletes and elevated girls' sports on a global stage. The community is invited to cheer him on July 4 as he leads this year’s parade. (info)

• Restaurant Owners Charged with Felony Wage Theft: The former owner and manager of Royal India Cuisine in Kirkland and Lynnwood, Mohammad and Aeisha Bhatti, are facing felony charges for failing to pay employees nearly $45,000 in wages from 2021 to 2023. An investigation by Washington’s Department of Labor & Industries revealed bounced checks, missing payments, and additional unpaid labor connected to a separate business. The Attorney General filed multiple counts of theft, including one count of first-degree theft tied to over 800 hours of unpaid work. The Kirkland location has since closed, and the Lynnwood restaurant operates under new ownership. (info)

Events:

• Kirkland Teen Union Building Open House on June 10th. (info)

• Kirkland Farmers Market on June 11th. (info)

• Juanita Farmers Market on June 13th. (info)

• Planning Commission Meeting on June 12th. (info)

• Blood Drive on June 24th. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Macrina Bakery to Open First Eastside Café on Mercer Island: Beloved Seattle-based Macrina Bakery is set to open a new café across from Mercerdale Park during the first week of July. Located at 3051 78th Ave. SE, the 3,000-square-foot space will feature indoor and outdoor seating, serving fresh pastries, sandwiches, and artisan breads baked daily at its Kent-Tukwila bakery. This marks Macrina’s seventh location and its first east of Seattle. Co-owner Matt Galvin, a Mercer Island native, says the café will be a neighborhood hub for commuters, friends, and business meetups. (info)

• Becker Appointed to Mercer Island City Council: Daniel Becker was unanimously appointed to the Mercer Island City Council on June 3 to fill the vacant Position No. 7 seat following the passing of Councilmember Jake Jacobson. Becker, a former vice chair of the Mercer Island Arts Council and 2021 council candidate, will serve until the Nov. 2025 general election results are certified. In that election, he will run unopposed for Position No. 2. Becker says he’s honored to serve and aims to address key city issues, including the Public Safety & Maintenance Facility, Town Center development, and inflation-related budget pressures. (info)

Events:

• Community Coffee on June 10th. (info)

• Mercer Island Farmers Market on June 15th. (info)

• Juneteenth Celebration on June 19th. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Council Conversations was a Success: The Council Conversation event at Grass Lawn Park last week drew a strong turnout from local residents eager to discuss community concerns. Participants shared various topics that matter to them, highlighting the importance of civic engagement. Officials expressed gratitude for the contributions made by attendees. The next Council Conversations will take place on September 25 in the Overlake neighborhood. Additional details about this upcoming event will be provided as the date approaches. (info)

Events:

• Rainbow on the Eastside” Pride Month Art Show Artists’ Reception on June 12th. (info)

• CHIME Music Festival on June 14th. (info)

• Redmond Saturday Market on June 14th. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Renton Businesses Embrace Waste Reduction Program: The City of Renton has launched a Waste Reduction Assistance Program to help local businesses comply with Washington's organics management laws, which mandate all food waste be diverted from landfills by 2030. Currently, only 15% of commercial waste in Renton is recycled or composted—compared to 65% for residential waste. To boost participation, the city offers free customized support visits, multilingual training, compostable tools, and service audits to reduce trash bills and methane emissions. Local restaurant Kazuki Ramen reports a smooth transition and encourages others to join, citing environmental benefits and lighter trash loads. (info)

Events:

• Renton City Concert Band: Lights, Camera, Music on June 15th. (info)

• Neighborhood BBQ 2025 Series on June 25th. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• City of Sammamish Apologizes, Recommits to Inglewood Street Maintenance: In a letter dated June 6, the City of Sammamish formally apologized to Inglewood residents for its handling of street maintenance issues and acknowledged falling short of its public service standards. Following strong community feedback, the City Council voted on June 3 to maintain current city services in Inglewood while working on a long-term plan. The letter clarified that the streets in Inglewood are legally classified as private due to the state’s Non-User statute, despite original plat language suggesting otherwise. The City admitted it acted too quickly and is now re-evaluating options to continue maintenance, pending legal clarity.

• Kids Use “PoP Bucks” to Buy Produce at Sammamish Farmers Market: The Sammamish Farmers Market’s Power of Produce (PoP) program is turning kids into produce shoppers every Wednesday at Sammamish Commons. Launched in 2024 by the Sammamish Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by TLC Montessori, the program gives children ages 2–12 $2 in play money each market day to spend on fruits or vegetables, with prizes and planting kits offered as incentives. The effort, which doubled participation on opening day this year, helps promote healthy eating, supports local farmers, and draws traffic to youth vendor booths. (info)

Events:

• City Council Meeting on June 10th. (info)

• Farmers Market on June 11th. (info)

• Inglewood Plat Discussion on June 12th. (info)

• Live Music at Big Block Brewing on June 12th. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• No news this week!

Events:

• 4 Stitch Trivia Night on June 11th. (info)

• Boots & Brews Line Dancing on June 12th. (info)

• Food Truck Fridays at Apple Farm Village on June 13th. (info)

• Woodinville Farmers Market on June 14th. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Smoking Monkey Pizza (Renton): This neon-lit clubhouse slings chewy, slightly thick slices piled high, and you can—and should—order a side of wings or their surprisingly great cauliflower bites while you wait. It’s not always flawless—timing can lag and the pies run a little greasy—but when that pepperoni lands hot, Smoking Monkey is exactly where you want to be after a Seahawks game.

• Spicy Talk Bistro (Kirkland): Think of Spicy Talk as your go-to east-side Sichuan canteen: servers ask your heat level, then drop blistering Mapo Tofu and crispy chicken that’ll jolt you awake in the best way. Better yet, the kitchen pivots effortlessly to vegan-friendly tofu plates, so your plant-based friend can still leave with that signature Sichuan lip-tingle.

Vibes:

• The eastside is treating us to a rollercoaster of weather, starting the week with summery highs in the 80s, perfect for soaking up sunshine. As we move into midweek, temps ease into the 70s, with the air softening and clouds making occasional appearances. Come the weekend, we’re shifting into cozy mode: cooler skies, some morning drizzle, and the kind of weather that begs for a warm drink and a scenic walk.

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