Seastside Newsletter #60

Month Day, 2024

Hi everyone, thanks for tuning into this week’s newsletter! We have a pretty packed week of news for you. Please let us know if there are any specific types of news or events that you’d like to see!

If you want to help support the newsletter, please consider donating here.

Also, we have been working extremely hard on a Washington news app and we’d love for you all to check it out. It’s 100% free and you can sign up for your own personalized newsletter!

Today’s Seastside includes:

• I-90 ramp closure

• Fire in Issaquah

• Register for Woodinville Police Academy

Enjoy and if you have any questions please reply to this email!! - Mac and Preju

Bellevue:

News:

• Navigating the Bird Flu in Washington State: The current avian influenza (H5N1) outbreak, ongoing since 2022, is now being maintained in wild bird populations, increasing risks to domestic poultry and some mammals. Experts recommend biosecurity measures, such as securing chicken coops and avoiding raw pet food, to limit transmission. While human cases remain rare, officials advise precautions when handling sick or dead birds. Residents can report bird flu cases to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to help track outbreaks. (info)

• Bellevue Extends Safe Parking Program, Launches Park Naming Process: The Bellevue City Council received a positive update on the Safe Parking Pilot Program, which provides secure parking and services for families living in vehicles. With 30 families already securing stable housing, the council plans to extend the program through 2026. The city also initiated a naming process for a new park at Main Street and 112th Avenue SE, seeking public input. Additionally, King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn shared budget updates, and the council proclaimed March as Women’s History Month. (info)

Events:

• RealRoots Women Meetup on March 19th and 20th. (info)

• Celebrate Nowruz in Bellevue City Hall on March 22nd from 5pm to 7pm. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

• Bothell Opens Applications for 2025-2026 Pop Shops on Main: The City of Bothell is accepting applications for its Pop Shops on Main Small Business Incubator Program, providing retail space for small and disadvantaged businesses downtown. Entrepreneurs can apply through April 4, 2025, with new retail spaces being added this year. Participants must operate Thursday-Sunday, meet permitting requirements, and commit to a two-year agreement. A free “Business Basics” workshop on March 20 and 27 will help applicants refine their business plans. (info)

• Multi-Car Crashes Cause Major Traffic Backup in Bothell: Two separate multi-car crashes on I-405 southbound and SR-522 in Bothell caused significant traffic delays on Sunday afternoon. The accidents blocked two right lanes, leading to a four-mile backup as emergency crews worked to clear the scene. The crashes were first reported around 2 p.m., with cleanup efforts continuing past 3 p.m. (info)

• 14-Year-Old Driver Dies in Bothell Crash: A 14-year-old driver was killed in a single-vehicle crash on I-405 near WA 527 early Saturday morning. The vehicle veered off the road and struck a guardrail around 2 a.m., fatally injuring the driver. Three passengers, two 15-year-olds and a 14-year-old, were transported to a hospital with unknown injuries. The Washington State Patrol is investigating the incident. (info)

• Kenmore City Manager Shares Final Updates Before Departure: Outgoing Kenmore City Manager Rob Karlinsey provided a final update on key city projects before his move to eastern Washington. Progress continues on middle housing regulations, with final adoption expected in June. The city is also negotiating to acquire 15 acres of the Lakepointe property for shoreline restoration and park space. A proposed affordable housing project with Imagine Housing may see a final agreement by late March or early April. The city has launched a search for Karlinsey’s replacement, with Deputy City Manager Stephanie Lucash serving as interim. Additionally, construction on the new Public Works Operations Center is expected to begin by late summer. (info)

Events:

• Break Even Bottle Program – Every Tuesday at The Cottage on March 11th at 4pm. (info)

• Bothell Business Forum on March 12th at 9am. (info)

• St. Patrick’s Day Celebration on March 15th from 12 to 10pm. (info)

• Craft & Concrete Garage Crawl on March 22nd. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

• I-90/SR 18 Interchange Lane and Ramp Closures Begin March 10: Travelers near Snoqualmie should expect four nights of lane and ramp closures starting March 10 as part of WSDOT’s I-90/SR 18 Interchange Improvements Project. Closures will affect the SR 18 on-ramp to eastbound I-90, multiple lanes of I-90, and the SR 18/Snoqualmie Parkway underpass. Signed detours will be in place, and flaggers will direct traffic in affected areas. The project aims to build a diverging diamond interchange and widen SR 18 for improved traffic flow. (info)

• Mayor Ross Advocates for Snoqualmie in February: Mayor Katherine Ross actively championed Snoqualmie’s interests throughout February, engaging with state legislators in Olympia to discuss key issues affecting residents. She supported local businesses through the Business Bingo initiative, encouraging community members to shop locally and boost small business engagement. Additionally, she honored the efforts of King County Search and Rescue, recognizing their dedication to public safety and emergency response. In a special proclamation, she designated February as Michael Polina Month, celebrating his contributions to the community. (info)

Events:

• Comics & Crafts at the Fairwood Library on March 12th at 6pm. (info)

• Master Gardeners: Basic Vegetable Gardening on March 15th at 2pm. (info)

• Snoqualmie Plein Air Pop Up on March 29th at 10am. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Issaquah City Council Meeting Preview – March 10, 2025: The City Council will discuss the Light Rail Station Area Vision and Guiding Principles, presented by Senior Transportation Planner Thomas Valdriz, which includes a staff presentation, public comment, and council direction on future development. The agenda also features an introduction to the Utility Rate Study by Public Works Director Emily Moon, Utility Engineering Manager Matt Ellis, and consultant Sergey Tarasov, outlining revenue requirements and potential rate adjustments. Both topics will include council Q&A and public engagement opportunities. (info)

• Fire Displaces Families in Issaquah Multi-Housing Building: A fire broke out in a three-story multi-housing building on West Sammamish Parkway SE in Issaquah Sunday afternoon, prompting a response from Eastside Fire & Rescue. Crews contained the first-floor fire within 30 minutes, preventing it from spreading further, but residents from upper floors were displaced. The American Red Cross is assisting affected families, and no injuries were reported. A pet turtle in the affected unit was found safe. (info)

• Nominations Open for Issaquah Hall of Fame: The City of Issaquah is accepting nominations for the Issaquah Hall of Fame, the city’s top honor recognizing individuals who have made a lasting impact on the community. Nominees will be evaluated on inspiration, service, leadership, and civic contributions. The award will be presented at the Issaquah Community Awards on June 3, 2025. Nominations are due by April 30 at 5 p.m. Submit your nomination at issaquahwa.gov/nominate. (info)

• Solarize Eastside Program Launches to Expand Solar Energy Access: The Eastside Climate Partnership, a collaboration between six Eastside cities, has launched Solarize Eastside to help residents and businesses install solar panels at reduced rates. Participants from Redmond, Bellevue, Issaquah, Kirkland, Mercer Island, and Sammamish can sign up for a free solar assessment through July 4 at SolarizeEastside.org. The program connects customers with vetted local installers and offers special financing through Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union. Community workshops in March and May will provide information on incentives and installation processes. (info)

• Issaquah School District Celebrates First Season of Girls’ Flag Football: The Issaquah School District wrapped up its inaugural season of girls’ flag football, with 143 student-athletes from Issaquah, Skyline, and Liberty High Schools taking the field. The program nearly doubled the district’s winter sports participation and saw all three teams qualify for the playoffs, with Skyline advancing to the regional round. Flag football was officially adopted as a KingCo sport and may become a WIAA-sanctioned sport next year. The season’s success highlights the enthusiasm and dedication of players, coaches, and the community, setting a strong foundation for the sport’s future. (info)

Events:

• Hand Building Pottery Workshops on March 12th at 6pm. (info)

• Issy Hacks on March 29th at 9:30am to 3pm. (info)

• Newport Neighborhood Meeting on April 3rd from 6 to 8pm. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Kirkland City Council Recap – March 4, 2025: Kirkland City Council Recap – March 4, 2025: The Kirkland City Council approved three support memos for the RapidRide K Line project, with further discussion set for March 18. The Council also reviewed zoning code amendments to align with new State middle housing regulations and proclaimed National Safe Place Week in Kirkland. During a study session, discussions included year-round use of Peter Kirk pool, a Seattle Kraken IcePlex community center concept, and streamlining design review processes to meet State development standards. (info) 

• Kirkland Invites Community to Homelessness Focus Groups: The City of Kirkland is continuing its community engagement on homelessness by hosting three focus groups in March. These sessions will allow residents to discuss the Homelessness Continuum of Care Action Plan and provide input on the City’s evolving response. Meetings will be held virtually on March 17 and in-person at City Hall on March 19 and March 24. Deputy Mayor Jay Arnold emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives in addressing this complex issue. Registration is required, and space is limited. (info)

• Upcoming Zoning Updates for Juanita Neighborhood: The City of Kirkland is updating development standards for two key sites in Juanita—the Goodwill store site (NE 132nd St) and the Michael’s site (NE Juanita Dr)—to support a mix of affordable and market-rate housing, improve access to services, and enhance neighborhood connectivity. The Planning Commission will discuss the zoning code and design guideline amendments at a hybrid meeting on March 13 at 6 p.m. Residents can learn more and participate by visiting the City’s zoning requests webpage or contacting LeAndra Baker-Lewis at [email protected]. (info)

Events:

• Kirkland Shamrock Run on March 15th. (info)

• Mental Health First Aid Training on March 21st and March 28th. (info)

• Kirkland’s Homelessness Continuum of Care Action Plan Focus Group on March 17th, 19th, and 24th. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Donaldson and Rundle to Speak at March 18 Rotary Meeting: Former Seattle Supersonic James Donaldson and Mercer Island School District Superintendent Fred Rundle will address the Rotary Club of Mercer Island on March 18 at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center. Donaldson will discuss his personal journey and the importance of mental health support, while Rundle will provide insights on the school bond measure for the April 22 special election. The meeting begins at 12:30 p.m., with socializing from noon to 12:30 p.m. Guests are welcome, and a catered lunch is available for $25. More details at mirotary.org. (info)

• Futurewise Appeals Mercer Island’s Comprehensive Plan: Seattle-based nonprofit Futurewise has filed an appeal with the Growth Management Hearings Board, arguing that Mercer Island’s newly adopted 20-year comprehensive plan fails to meet state requirements. The appeal contends the city has not adequately planned for emergency shelters, transitional housing, and affordable housing near the new light rail station, nor addressed past racially exclusive land use policies. City officials maintain that the plan complies with the Growth Management Act and underwent extensive public review. The case is expected to be heard by July 2025, with both sides prepared for potential legal action. (info)

Events:

• Mercer Island Library Book Group on March 11th at 1:30pm at Mercer Island Library.

• Spring Conference Camp on March 14th at 9am. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Eastside Climate Partnership Launches Solarize Eastside: The Solarize Eastside program is now available to help residents and businesses in Redmond, Bellevue, Issaquah, Kirkland, Mercer Island, and Sammamish install solar panels at reduced rates. Participants can sign up for a free solar assessment through July 4 at SolarizeEastside.org and receive discounted installation pricing from vetted local installers. The program also offers special financing through Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union. Free community workshops will provide guidance on solar energy and installation incentives. (info)

• Redmond’s Derby Days Returns July 11-12: The City of Redmond’s signature summer festival is back with Derby Days 2025, bringing a weekend of live music, parades, bike races, carnival rides, and a drone light show. Festivities kick off Friday, July 11, with concerts at City Hall and high-energy cycling at the Jerry Baker Memorial Velodrome. Saturday, July 12, features the Kids Bike Parade, Grand Parade, arts and craft market, and food vendors, culminating in a drone light show above City Hall. (info)

Events:

• Women’s Day Out on March 15th from 10am to 2pm. (info)

• St. Patrick’s Day at Pickles Playland on March 17th at 7am to 7pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Suspect Arrested After Hours-Long Standoff in Renton: Renton police arrested a barricaded suspect Friday evening following a domestic violence incident at a condominium complex near Grant Avenue South and South 18th Street. The suspect, accused of making threats with a knife, hid under a mattress after an hours-long standoff involving flashbangs and a SWAT drone. Police eventually took her into custody without incident and booked her for first-degree assault, domestic violence. The area has since been cleared. (info) 

• Renton PD Arrests Couple Possibly Linked to ATM Theft Ring: The Renton Police Violent Crime Unit arrested Sean Jacob Coleman and Diana Hayward, a couple possibly tied to a $1 million ATM theft ring in Washington. Coleman, a convicted felon, surrendered peacefully at a Kent apartment on February 28, while Hayward attempted to hide in a refrigerator before being taken into custody. Police recovered two illegal firearms, six cell phones, and other evidence potentially linking them to ATM robberies in King and Pierce Counties. Coleman remains in custody, while Hayward was hospitalized after resisting arrest. More charges may follow as the investigation continues. (info)

• Clean Sweep Returns for 2025: Renton’s Clean Sweep Program is back, offering one free extra garbage pickup for single-family residential customers within city limits from March 1 to December 31, 2025. Pickups occur on regular garbage days and must be scheduled one to four weeks in advance. Accepted items include up to 10 units of garbage and two bulky items like mattresses or sofas. Appliances, electronics, yard waste, and hazardous materials are not accepted. (info)

Events:

• Renton City Concert Band presents Destinations on March 16th at 2pm. (info)

• What’s Brewing with Ed – Conversations with Renton’s CAO on March 19th at 5:30pm. (info)

• The Renton Employability Fair 2025 on March 25th at 4pm. (info)

• State of the City on March 26th. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Private Stormwater System Inspection Program: Sammamish’s private stormwater system inspection program ensures long-term maintenance of stormwater treatment systems to meet local regulations. City staff inspect nearly 200 privately-owned systems annually, including ponds, swales, ditches, pipes, and catch basins that help prevent flooding and protect water quality. Property owners are responsible for maintaining their systems, with penalties possible for non-compliance. (info) 

• State Bill to Require Financial Education in High Schools Faces Mixed Reactions: Senate Bill 5080 proposes making financial literacy a high school graduation requirement in Washington, starting with the class of 2033. The bill aims to improve students’ understanding of budgeting, debt management, and retirement planning, but does not specify course length or structure. While teachers largely support the idea, students express concerns about losing elective flexibility. The bill remains stuck in committee, with ongoing debate over balancing curriculum requirements and student choice. (info)

• Eastlake Drama Presents “The Phantom Tollbooth” This Spring: Eastlake High School’s drama department will bring the beloved children’s story The Phantom Tollbooth to life with performances from March 27-29 and April 3-5 at the Eastlake Performing Arts Center. Featuring a small, tight-knit cast of 19 students, the production is designed to engage younger audiences while showcasing student-led set, prop, and costume design. The play follows Milo’s adventure through The Lands Beyond, blending comedy, nostalgia, and interactive storytelling. More details are available on the Eastlake drama events page. (info)

Events:

• Drop-In College Counseling on March 11th at 4pm at the Sammamish library.

• Maddox Baseball tournament Arizona on March 12th at the Pine Lake Community Center at 12am.

Woodinville:

News:

• Register for Woodinville’s Community Police Academy: Woodinville residents can get a behind-the-scenes look at police operations by joining the spring Community Police Academy, running from April 17 to May 29. Sessions are held Thursday evenings (6:00-9:00 p.m.) and two Saturdays (10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.), covering use of force, criminal investigations, SWAT, K-9 demonstrations, and more. Registration is open, and spots are limited—apply now on the King County Community Police Academy website or call 206-263-9133. (info) 

Events:

• Live Entertainment at Fireside Lounge on March 12th. (info)

• Live Music at Village Wines on March 13th. (info)

• Yoga + Wine at Quiddity Wines on March 15th. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Cleanup at Squak Mountain on March 13th at 8:30am. (info)

• Join the Renton Downtown Partnership on April 6th from 9 - 11am to help pick up litter on the streets of downtown. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Smoking Monkey Pizza in Renton, WA: If you’re on the hunt for a pizza joint that breaks the mold, Smoking Monkey Pizza is your go-to spot. This isn’t your average pizzeria; it’s a place where creativity meets flavor in the most delightful way. Their wood-fired pizzas boast a perfect crust—crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside. Favorites like the ‘Monkey Deluxe’ come loaded with fresh toppings that make each bite a new experience. Beyond pizzas, the menu offers a variety of pastas and appetizers, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The ambiance is casual and fun, making it a great place to hang out with friends or family. Whether you’re dining in or ordering for delivery, Smoking Monkey Pizza promises a memorable meal. 

• The Attic at Salish Lodge & Spa in Snoqualmie, WA: Perched atop the majestic Snoqualmie Falls, The Attic offers a dining experience that combines rustic charm with breathtaking views. The menu is a celebration of Pacific Northwest flavors, featuring dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can indulge in a variety of offerings, from artisanal pizzas to hearty entrees, all while enjoying the cozy ambiance enhanced by warm wood interiors and a welcoming fireplace. The Attic is an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a relaxing meal after exploring the scenic surroundings. Reservations are recommended to ensure a table with a view.

Vibes:

• We are looking to partner with local businesses to help grow our little community! If you run one or know of someone who runs please let us know and we would love to talk with them and learn more. 

• It will be pretty rainy and cloudy the entire week, stay warm!

Final Thoughts!

Seastside Exclusive Deals:

• 50% off the first hour of personalized remote tech assistance for new customers at Issaquah’s GentleTechHelp.com. Bridget offers patient concierge tech assistance for seniors and the tech-uncomfortable. Mention the newsletter for the discount.

• 10% off every service purchased at KennyDale Exterior Washing. They provide comprehensive exterior cleaning services including power washing, window cleaning, gutter cleaning, and roof cleaning, ensuring your property looks its best. Mention the newsletter to get the deal!

• 10% off your next car, boat or RV detail with Detail Kings NW! Mention the newsletter!

• 10% off your first painting job from Liike Home Painting. Mention the newsletter!

• 20% off any gym membership at Hustle Fit in Redmond. Mention Seastside or use code HUSTLE when signing up!

• 10% off at Anchovies & Salt in Renton - mention code ‘Beehiiv’

• In need of a handyman, real estate repairs, damage restoration or home remodeling? We Honey Do has offered all you readers an exclusive 5% off their services. Mention the Seastside newsletter to Eric! (info)