Seastside Newsletter #38

October 7th, 2024

Announcement: Hello everyone! We hope you had a fantastic weekend. A big thank you to all of you who have signed up for Headline and shared your valuable feedback and suggestions. We're glad to hear that you're enjoying the personalized local newsletters, and we've made some fixes and improvements based on your input!

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We’re also excited to announce that we’ll be releasing a podcast later this week, covering all the latest news from Seastside. Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, feel free to reach out with any questions!

Today’s Seastside includes:

• Bellevue principal placed on leave.

• Sammamish traffic delays expected due to gas main and fiber installation.

• Renton prepares for the Cedar River Salmon Festival on October 12th.

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

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)

Bellevue: 

News:

• Bellevue Principal Placed on Leave After Swastika Controversy: A Bellevue elementary school principal is under investigation and on administrative leave after parents objected to her comments regarding a swastika found on school property. While she acknowledged its hateful associations, the principal also referred to its historical significance in some cultures, which parents deemed "unacceptable." The Bellevue School District is investigating the matter, emphasizing its commitment to addressing antisemitism. (info)

• Bellevue Police Warn Residents After Gas Station Armed Robbery: Bellevue police are urging residents to remain vigilant following an armed robbery at a gas station, which may be connected to multiple similar incidents across the Puget Sound region. Two suspects, described as males between 18 and 24, robbed the station at gunpoint and fled in a stolen silver Toyota sedan. (info)

• Bellevue Offers Fee Waivers to Boost Affordable Housing Projects: The City of Bellevue has introduced a program waiving permit review and inspection fees for developers building affordable housing. To qualify, all units must be priced at or below 80% of the area median income, with additional eligibility for projects offering long-term supportive housing or services for the homeless. (info)

• Bellevue Arts Museum Focuses on Events After Exhibition Closure: After ceasing public exhibitions, the Bellevue Arts Museum will host private events like weddings and corporate gatherings. It will also launch its first Holiday Arts Fair from November 30 to December 24, showcasing local artists’ unique gifts. The museum is offering group reservations for Snowflake Lane viewing from its balcony to generate community engagement. (info)

Events:

• Pop up Pizza at Bellden Cafe on Oct. 8 at 10am. (info)

• Joshua “Red” Uttech live at the Rouge Cocktail Lounge on Oct. 10th at 8:30pm. (info)

• Sip and Knit on Oct 11th at 6-9pm. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore: 

News:

• Bothell Parents Celebrate Safer Crosswalk After 10-Year Effort: Parents at Lockwood Elementary School in Bothell successfully advocated for a safer crosswalk over the course of 10 years. Last week, Snohomish County officials installed flashing lights at the crosswalk on Lockwood Road to improve safety for students. The effort began when parents noticed speeding cars and increasing near-misses. After years of reaching out to local and state officials, the $50,000 project was funded and completed. (info)

• Kenmore Adopts First Human Services Needs Assessment: The City of Kenmore has adopted its first Human Services Needs Assessment, a vital step in addressing housing and human services needs in the community. The assessment identifies service gaps and outlines priorities such as resource navigation, housing affordability, youth mental health, and transportation support. In response, the city is forming a term-limited Human Services Advisory Group to develop a strategic plan. Community members interested in contributing are encouraged to apply by October 21, 2024. (info)

Events:

• Bothell Art Walk on October 10th from 5pm - 8pm. (info)

• Arbor Day Celebration on October 12th. (info)

• Startup 425 - Startup & Small Business CoWorking on October 23rd. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie: 

News:

• Former Mayor Fuzzy Fletcher Honored for Decades of Public Service: The City of Snoqualmie honored former Mayor Fuzzy Fletcher for over 30 years of public service. Fletcher served as a public safety volunteer, City Councilmember from 1995-1997, and mayor from 1998-2005, continuing to volunteer on the Civil Service Commission from 2012-2024. Current Mayor Katherine Ross presented him with a plaque and key to the city, praising his leadership in shaping Snoqualmie’s growth. Fletcher’s contributions helped transform the city into the thriving community it is today. (info)

Events:

• Valley Animal Partners is hosting the 12th Annual Chili Showdown and Dessert Auction on November 2nd from 6pm - 8:30pm. (info)

• Halloween Train on October 12th from 10:30am - 4:30pm. (info)

• The Business Workshop at Umpqua Bank on October 9th. (info)

Issaquah: 

News:

• Issaquah Launches Holiday Shopping Guide: Issaquah has introduced the Issaquah Loyal Holiday Shopping Guide to encourage local shopping this holiday season. The guide features over 70 local makers and merchants offering a variety of gifts, including art, home décor, and experiences. It also includes a calendar of holiday markets and pop-ups. (info)

Events:

• Environmental Board on October 9th at 6:30pm. (info)

• Camelot at the Village Theatre on October 13th. (info)

• City Council Regular Meeting on October 7th at 7pm. (info)

Kirkland: 

News:

• Kirkland City Council Recap – October 1, 2024: The Kirkland City Council held a hybrid meeting on October 1. Key items included the adoption of amendments to the Business License Code, review of the Transportation Strategic Plan, approval of a resolution opposing the Kroger-Albertsons merger, and discussion of Sound Cities Association board and committee appointments. A prior Study Session featured a joint meeting with the Senior Council to discuss 2024 accomplishments and older adult needs, along with a briefing on Fire and Park Impact Fees. (info)

• Kirkland Seeks Official City Flag Designs: Kirkland residents and fans are invited to submit designs for the city's first official flag by November 15, 2024. This initiative, approved by the Kirkland City Council in July, aims to foster civic pride and community identity. Participants are encouraged to reflect Kirkland’s unique qualities through colors, shapes, and images. Designs can be digital or hand-drawn. Additionally, the City is forming a Flag Learners Advisory Group to help review submissions and make recommendations. (info)

• Certification Series for Minority and Women-Owned Businesses: The City of Kirkland, in partnership with the Washington State Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE), is offering three workshops to help local small businesses gain state certification. This certification opens doors for businesses to work with state agencies, school districts, universities, and local governments. The first in-person workshop is on October 9 at Kirkland City Hall, with virtual sessions on November 12 and December 4. (info)

Events:

• Sound Bath Class on October 8th. (info)

• Pumpkins in the Park on October 17th. (info)

• Lake Washington Half Marathon on October 19th. (info)

Mercer Island: 

News:

• Mercer Island Plans to Densify Town Center With a Big Catch: In response to state law, Mercer Island has approved a modest upzoning of its Town Center near the future Sound Transit light rail station, allowing buildings to rise up to seven stories. However, the City Council also increased affordability mandates, requiring 15% of new units to be affordable for residents earning 50% of the area median income. While aimed at promoting affordability, this high mandate may make new housing projects financially unfeasible, stalling development. The upzoning is a response to state law HB 1220, which requires cities to align housing needs with affordability, but Mercer Island’s reluctance to rezone single-family areas and its stringent requirements may limit progress. (info)

• Mercer Island Officer Under Investigation for Misconduct: Mercer Island police officer Todd Roggenkamp is under investigation following two separate incidents. The first involves an off-duty night of drinking, where Roggenkamp attempted to leverage his rank to release his wife after she was arrested for assault. The second incident involves Roggenkamp attaching a sex toy to a marked patrol car as a prank. Although the Mercer Island Police Department initially proposed termination, Roggenkamp was demoted from sergeant to officer and remains on the force under a "last chance employment agreement." The case has been sent to the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission for further review, which could lead to decertification. (info)

• Mercer Island Draft Comprehensive Plan Open for Public Review: Mercer Island’s 2024 draft comprehensive plan, which outlines a 20-year vision for the city, is now available for public review. The plan addresses key areas like land use, housing, transportation, utilities, and parks. Notably, it includes policies on housing supply and affordability, economic development, and the creation of a new parks and open space zone. Islanders can view the draft and submit comments until October 31. The city council will review input during a public hearing on November 4, with a final adoption expected by December 31. (info)

Events:

• Community Coffee on October 8th at 9:30am. (info)

• Seahawks Watch Party on October 10th at 5:15pm. (info)

• Blue Friday Community Coffee on October 11th at 9:30am. (info)

Redmond: 

News:

• Redmond 2050: From Suburb to City: Redmond is undergoing a significant transformation as it plans for its future through the Redmond 2050 process. As part of Washington State’s required 10-year city planning review, Redmond is shaping its vision for the coming decades. This comprehensive effort aims to accommodate growth while ensuring that the city’s development aligns with the community's needs and aspirations. The Redmond 2050 process is now in its final phase, focusing on implementing the vision and policies crafted through extensive community input. (info)

• Redmond Police Support Breast Cancer Awareness with Pink Patch Project: For the fifth consecutive year, the Redmond Police Department is participating in the Pink Patch Project to raise breast cancer awareness and support cancer research. During October, officers and staff will wear pink versions of the Redmond police patch. Community members can purchase commemorative patches, lapel pins, and challenge coins for $10, with all proceeds going to the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance for breast cancer research and treatment. To buy items, send a check to the Redmond Police Foundation. (info)

• Redmond Mayor Angela Birney Introduces Preliminary 2025-2026 Budget: On Oct. 1, Mayor Angela Birney presented Redmond's preliminary 2025-2026 biennial budget to the City Council. The budget focuses on community priorities, including investments in behavioral health services, environmental protection, public safety, and preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Public hearings will be held on Oct. 15 and Nov. 4, and community feedback is encouraged through various channels. The full budget can be reviewed online. (info)

• ADA-Accessible Sidewalks and Curb Ramps Installation on Avondale Road NE: Starting Monday, Oct. 7, crews will be installing new ADA-accessible sidewalks and curb ramps near the 8600 block of Avondale Road NE. Southbound traffic will be reduced to one lane for about 300 feet, and sidewalk access will be limited during work hours. 

Events:

• Redmond Planning Commission on October 9th. (info)

• Green Redmond Day on October 26th from 9am - 12pm. (info)

Renton: 

News:

• Renton Celebrates Launch of Evergreen Communities Recognition Program: The Department of Natural Resources and Renton's Parks and Recreation Department held a reception and park tour to mark the launch of the Evergreen Communities Recognition Program. This program recognizes cities and counties in Washington for excellence in urban forestry management. Mayor Armondo Pavone, Public Lands Commissioner Hilary Franz, and Representative Bill Ramos, who sponsored HB 2768, spoke at the event, which highlighted the city's commitment to urban forestry. Renton, a "Tree City USA" since 2007, is now advancing its efforts with the Evergreen Communities program to enhance environmental sustainability and quality of life. (info)

• Attention Renton Employers & Employees: Annual Minimum Wage Rate Update for 2025: As of July 1, 2024, Renton's updated labor standards (Renton Municipal Code 5.28) are in effect. The minimum wage rates are adjusted annually based on regional inflation. Effective January 1, 2025, the new minimum wage rates are: Large Employers: $20.90 (up from $20.29 in 2024) Mid-Size Employers: January 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025: $18.90 (up from $18.29 in 2024) July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025: $19.90. (info)

• School District Plans to Build New Renton High School: The Renton School District is set to replace Renton High School on its current grounds, acquiring 42 nearby parcels to expand the campus. The new facilities will provide equitable amenities comparable to other district high schools. This $435 million project is funded by a bond measure passed in 2022. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2027, with completion slated for fall 2029. The project retains the historic 1929 facade and the IKEA Performing Arts Center. (info)

Events:

• Wastemobile event in Renton from October 11th through 13th from 10am - 5pm. (info)

• Salmon SEEson every Saturday in October from 11am - 4pm. (info)

• Cedar River Salmon Festival on October 12th at 10am. (info)

• Fall Gardening Classes: Rain Gardens for Homeowners on October 13th at 6pm. (info)

Sammamish: 

News:

• Cone Zone 10/4/2024: Sammamish Traffic Updates:Puget Sound Energy is currently replacing a gas main on Northeast 16th Street in Sammamish, with work scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for about a month. Ziply is also installing fiber along 229th and 230th Avenues Northeast, which may cause minor traffic delays during the same hours. In addition, the City is conducting stormwater pipe inspections and cleaning on various roads, including Issaquah Fall-City Road and Issaquah Pine Lake Road, with occasional single-lane closures expected through the end of the year. Starting October 8, King County will be installing nine monitoring wells on East Lake Sammamish Parkway Northeast between Inglewood Hill Road and 3931 East Lake Sammamish Parkway, leading to alternating one-lane closures from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for approximately 10 to 15 working days. (info)

• Sammamish Diwali Bazaar Offers Goods and Connections: The Sammamish Diwali Bazaar, organized by Shachi Shukla, will be held on Sunday, Oct. 13, at the Pine Lake Community Center. The event will feature 14 small business vendors from the greater Seattle area, selling Diwali-related items such as jewelry, clothes, food, and decor. Shukla aims to create a space for the local Indian community to connect and celebrate their culture while supporting small businesses. Entry is free, and the event runs from 2:30 to 8 p.m. (info)

Events:

• City Council Meeting on October 8th at 6:30pm. (info)

• Sammamish Diwali Bazaar on October 13th at 2:30pm. (info)

• Sammamish Youth Board Meeting on October 16th at 6pm. (info)

Woodinville: 

News:

• Wood Trails Improvements Scheduled: The City of Woodinville will begin construction to improve existing trails and add new segments at Wood Trails starting Monday, October 7, 2024. The project is expected to last approximately 8 weeks, depending on weather. The work will involve clearing brush, soil grading, and installing mulch, followed by the addition of stairs and site cleanup. The City anticipates minimal disruption to the trails during this period. (info)

Events:

• Comprehensive Plan Review Informational Session on October 9th. (info)

• Friday Harvest Tours at Novelty Hill - Januik Winery on October 11th at 10:30am. (info)

• City Council Meeting on October 15th. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Volunteer at Sammamish Landing on Oct. 12 (info)

• Restoration Event at 62nd St Trail on Oct. 12 from 10am-12pm. (info)

• Restoration Event | Celebrate Arbor Day on October 19th. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Spark Pizza in Redmond is a local favorite, known for its wood-fired pizzas and a great selection of wines. The cozy atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for a casual meal, and their creative toppings like the "Mushroom Party" and "Spicy Sausage" are highly recommended. Perfect for families or a night out with friends. 

• The Herbfarm in Woodinville offers an extraordinary farm-to-table experience with nine-course tasting menus that change with the seasons. Known for pairing exquisite Pacific Northwest dishes with local wines, it’s an ideal spot for special occasions.

Vibes:

• Thank you for trying Headline! Please let us know any feedback you may have about the platform.

• We’ve got some sunshine this week and some rain. It is fall weather!

  

  From @BvueParks

Final Thoughts!

There’s always something new happening, and we can’t wait to hear your thoughts on these stories and more. Don’t forget to reply with any feedback, questions, or suggestions — your insights truly help us make Headline better each week.

Stay safe, stay connected, and enjoy the changing colors of fall!