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- Seastside Newsletter #45
November 25th, 2024
Hello everyone! We hope you are all doing well and are safe after the storm.
Today’s Seastside includes:
Storm information
Road closures & updates
Holiday events
Enjoy and if you have any questions please reply to this email!! - Mac and Preju
Bellevue:
News:
Eastside Tragedy During Bomb Cyclone: A Bellevue woman died after a tree fell on her home in the Bridle Trails neighborhood during the severe storm on Tuesday, Nov. 19. Another death was reported in Lynnwood under similar circumstances. The storm, a bomb cyclone, caused widespread damage, including power outages affecting over 600,000 customers. (info)
Garden d'Lights 30th Anniversary: Running from Nov. 30 to Dec. 31, Garden d'Lights at Bellevue Botanical Garden will showcase over 500,000 lights forming plant and animal shapes, excluding Christmas Day. (info)
Bellevue Yard Debris Pickup After Storm: Following a severe windstorm, Bellevue residents can dispose of up to 192 gallons of yard debris, like branches and leaves, curbside at no cost. Republic Services, the city's waste provider, will handle collections with guidelines on item size, while some areas may be inaccessible due to storm damage. (info)
Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi Reopening After Power Outage: Bellevue's Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi, located on the 31st floor of Lincoln South Tower, will reopen on Thursday, November 28, after a temporary closure due to a power outage. The reopening will feature a special “Carts & Carousels” Thanksgiving Brunch, with regular dinner service resuming on November 29 and brunch on December 7. (info)
Snowflake Lane Returns for 20th Anniversary on Nov. 29: Downtown Bellevue's Snowflake Lane parade, celebrating its 20th year, begins on November 29 and runs nightly through Christmas Eve. Featuring 200 performers, including toy soldiers and holiday dancers, the parade brings festive floats, nightly snowfall, and candy giveaways along Bellevue Way. Additional activities include Santa photos, a tree lighting ceremony, and special hotel packages at The Bellevue Collection. (info)
City of Bellevue Declares Local Emergency After Windstorm: Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson has declared a local emergency in response to a powerful windstorm on November 19-20, which caused significant property damage, power outages, and debris hazards. City crews are working nonstop to restore infrastructure and provide essential services, with the emergency declaration allowing expedited access to resources and services for faster recovery efforts. (info)
Events:
Bothell/Kenmore:
News:
Bothell Charging and Warming Centers Open for Storm Recovery Support: Other available warming and charging centers include Canyon Hills Community Church, Bothell United Methodist Church, and Kenmore City Hall. Community members are encouraged to bring their own chargers and prioritize medical device charging. For safety, avoid using grills or generators indoors to prevent carbon monoxide risks, and check on neighbors needing assistance. (info)
Kenmore Residents Invited to Invest in City's Tax-Exempt Bonds: The City of Kenmore is issuing approximately $12 million in Limited Tax General Obligation Bonds to fund a new Public Works Operations Center, set to open in 2026. Local residents can invest in these tax-exempt bonds, which will be marketed by D.A. Davidson & Company in late November. Interested parties should contact Finance Director Melinda Merrell at [email protected] or 425-398-8900 ext. 6190 for more details and to obtain the Preliminary Official Statement
Events:
Fall City/Snoqualmie:
News:
Snoqualmie Pass Records First Significant Snowfall of the Season: Snoqualmie Pass saw its first major snowfall of the season on November 18, 2024, marking the beginning of winter conditions in the region. Snow accumulation is expected to continue in the coming days, impacting travel across the mountain pass. (info)
Windstorm Recovery Update | November 20, 2024: Following the severe windstorm on November 19, 2024, the City of Snoqualmie continues its recovery efforts. Mayor Ross issued a Proclamation of Emergency to facilitate immediate action for clearing debris, restoring power, and ensuring public safety. Crews are focused on clearing roadways and addressing downed trees, with an estimated 2-3 weeks for full recovery. Power restoration is ongoing, with Puget Sound Energy working to repair extensive damage. Residents are urged to report downed trees and stay cautious around power lines and intersections. Emergency shelters may be activated if needed.
Events:
Issaquah:
News:
PSE Works to Restore Power to 24,000+ in Western WA: Puget Sound Energy crews are working around the clock to restore power to over 24,000 customers in western Washington after a bomb cyclone caused widespread outages. As of November 23, 2024, restoration efforts are ongoing, with full power expected to be restored by November 25. Priorities include schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure. (info)
Community Safety Meeting Discusses Crime Trends and Prevention Tips: On Nov. 14, 2024, the Highlands Council held a Community Safety Meeting with Issaquah Police Department Officer Alex Helms, addressing crime concerns in the area. Topics included the rise of e-bike misuse by juveniles, with 40 incidents reported since summer. Officer Helms clarified that many e-bikes without pedals are classified as motorcycles, which have specific regulations. The meeting also highlighted the increase in package theft, particularly during the holiday season, and offered tips to prevent theft, such as scheduling deliveries, requiring signatures, and installing security cameras. The meeting emphasized the importance of reporting crimes promptly and utilizing resources like "Informed Delivery" for tracking packages. (info)
Events:
Kirkland:
News:
City Council Meeting Recap: The City Council's November 19 meeting covered key topics including property taxes, the 2025-2026 City Budget, and the Transportation Strategic Plan. The full discussions and agenda details are available for review on the City’s website. (info)
Community Conversations: Kirkland is seeking public input for the final steps of the 2044 Comprehensive Plan, with final adoption scheduled for December 10. Participate in quizzes, review plan drafts, and stay engaged through the City’s platform. (info)
Keeping It Clean: The Street Crew continues its hard work clearing roads and leaves, with a focus on preventing urban flooding. Extra yard waste collection is available through November to help with storm cleanup. (info)
Shop Local, Love Kirkland this Small Biz Saturday: Small Business Saturday on November 30, 2024, encourages the community to shop at local businesses, whether in person or online, to support their growth and success. This one-day event offers fantastic deals and unique gifts while making a big impact on the local economy. (info)
Events:
Mercer Island:
News:
Mercer Island Grocery Stores Discard Perishables Amid Ongoing Blackout: Grocery stores on Mercer Island, including QFC, have had to throw away perishable goods like produce, dairy, and meat due to a prolonged power outage caused by a bomb cyclone. The community is facing its third day without power, with efforts underway to restore service, but officials warn the outages may last several more days. (info)
Mercer Island and Kirkland Businesses Struggle Amid Power Outages: Thousands of people remain without power following a bomb cyclone, and businesses like Sparrow in Kirkland are stepping in to offer meals and phone charging despite having no heat. While some businesses have been forced to close, others, powered by backup generators, are continuing to serve their communities during the ongoing outages. (info)
Events:
Redmond:
News:
Redmond 2050 Plan Approved: The Redmond City Council adopted the transformative Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan to guide growth and enhance livability, equity, sustainability, and resiliency. Key goals include reducing car dependency, creating vibrant neighborhoods, protecting the environment, and increasing affordable housing options. (info)
Shop Small in Redmond and Win Prizes: Redmond's 2024 Shop Small Passport Program runs through December 31, encouraging residents to support local businesses while earning rewards. Participants collect points by visiting shops and attractions across neighborhoods like Downtown Redmond, Marymoor Village, and Overlake. Weekly prizes include gift cards and ORCA transit passes, with a grand prize featuring Cirque du Soleil tickets, a hotel stay, and dining certificates. Redmond Lights in Downtown Park adds festive cheer throughout December. (info)
Portions of Redmond Remain Dark Following Tuesday’s Bomb Cyclone: Western Washington residents continue to recover from Tuesday’s bomb cyclone, with parts of Redmond still without power until SAturday. Thousands were initially affected, and crews have been working 24-hour shifts to restore power and clear debris from roads. Mayor Angela Birney declared a local emergency, and Puget Sound Energy prioritized critical infrastructure like hospitals. Residents, including Aaron Jokela near Anderson Park, described intense winds, shaking buildings, and transformers exploding. (info)
Redmond City Council Adopts 2025–2026 Budget: On Nov. 19, the Redmond City Council approved the Mayor's proposed 2025–2026 biennial budget by a 5–1 vote. The budget reflects community input and prioritizes investments in housing, social services, sustainability, and public safety. Highlights include expanding behavioral health programs, maintaining light rail, advancing decarbonization and green building efforts, and preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Public hearings and feedback sessions informed the budget, which adheres to four community priorities: sustainability, safety, responsiveness, and vibrancy. (info
Events:
Renton:
News:
Renton City Council Adopts 2025–2026 Biennial Budget: On Nov. 18, Renton City Council approved a $648 million biennial budget aimed at addressing key community priorities: cleanliness and condition, public safety, and social services. With a population exceeding 108,000, the budget allocates resources for expanded staffing, including eight new police officers, enhanced park maintenance, and investments in infrastructure. Initiatives include the Downtown Safe and Clean program, mental health services for students through the Renton Student Health Hub, and modernized asset management systems. Utility rates will see modest adjustments, with property taxes increasing by 2% in 2025. This budget reflects Renton's long-standing financial resilience and commitment to meeting community needs. (info)
Renton Traffic Impact Report Highlights Windy Weather Closures and Upcoming Construction: Road closures continue following severe weather, with Lind Ave. SW at SW 16th and the 1500 block of Blaine Ave NE remain inaccessible through the weekend. Starting November 25, intermittent lane closures will affect Northeast Sunset Boulevard, Williams Avenue South, Bronson Way Northeast, and Wells Avenue South due to construction and utility improvements. Projects will run from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM daily, with traffic control plans in place to ensure safety. Drivers are advised to use caution in work zones and check rentonwa.gov/emergencyinfo for updates. (info)
“Bomb Cyclone” Leaves Renton Residents Without Power and Damages Property: Renton is reeling after a powerful Nov. 19 bomb cyclone uprooted trees, damaged homes, and left wide areas without power. Puget Sound Energy reported over 416,000 outages across its service area, with Renton facing multi-day disruptions. The storm caused roadway blockages, including incidents of falling trees striking individuals and trapping a driver in a vehicle under power lines. Crews are working to clear debris and restore traffic flow as outages affect traffic signals citywide. The Renton Community Center has opened as a warming station with Wi-Fi, and residents are urged to follow safety guidelines to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning while using generators. (info)
Margie Williams Helping Hands Food Center Continues to Serve Renton Community: Operating every Saturday morning since 2000, the Margie Williams Helping Hands Food Center in Renton provides food to anyone in need, with no ID or income verification required. Located at 4519 NE 10th Street, adjacent to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Baptist Church, the center offers shelf-stable groceries, produce, dairy, and bread, sourced from Northwest Harvest, local stores, and schools. Co-directed by Haley Boltz, the center has seen its weekly visitors nearly double since the pandemic. (info)
Events:
Sammamish:
News:
Sammamish City Hall Becomes Central Hub as Bomb Cyclone Recovery Continues: Thousands remain without power following Tuesday’s bomb cyclone, prompting Sammamish City Hall to serve as a refuge for warmth and charging. Declared a state of emergency, the city has drawn hundreds to its shelter, where residents praised community efforts, including food trucks and shared support. King County Emergency Management Director Brendan McCluskey called the storm “unprecedented” and urged patience as crews work to restore services. Authorities continue to monitor conditions and are prepared to expand shelters if necessary. (info)
Sammamish Councilmember Sid Gupta Embraces Car-Free Lifestyle to Help the Environment: Despite Sammamish’s car-dependent layout, Councilmember Sid Gupta has lived without a car since 2010, relying on biking, walking, public transit, and carpooling. While acknowledging the challenges of longer commutes and less convenience, Gupta finds joy in biking, especially on trails like the East Lake Sammamish Trail. His commitment is fueled by environmental concerns and a passion for sustainable living. Gupta encourages others to reduce car usage in small, manageable ways, emphasizing that even one fewer car trip per week can collectively make a significant impact. (info)
Events:
Woodinville:
News:
Washington Supreme Court Strikes Down King County's Adult Beverage Ordinance: On September 19, 2024, the Washington State Supreme Court ruled that King County's 2019 Adult Beverage Ordinance violated the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) and the Growth Management Act (GMA). The ordinance, which sought to allow alcohol-related businesses to operate on farmland and in rural areas, was found to neglect environmental protections for agricultural lands, salmon habitats, and water quality. Farmers and urban businesses raised concerns about increased land prices and economic disparities. Environmental groups, including Futurewise, hailed the decision as a vital precedent for safeguarding rural and natural resources under SEPA and GMA. (info)
Woodinville Roads Reopened Following Windstorm Cleanup: After a severe windstorm on November 19, 2024, city crews and Puget Sound Energy (PSE) have successfully reopened four previously closed roads in Woodinville. Teams worked diligently to clear fallen trees, debris, and downed power lines, restoring safe travel routes for residents and businesses. The city extends its gratitude to the workers who faced challenging conditions to ensure community safety. (info)
Chateau Ste. Michelle Plans Redevelopment of Woodinville Property: Chateau Ste. Michelle has submitted detailed plans for the redevelopment of its iconic 118-acre Woodinville estate. The proposed updates, consistent with earlier announcements, include new property uses and expanded concert seating. These plans mark a significant step in the winery’s evolution, aligning with its long-term vision for enhancing visitor experiences and operational capacity. Full details and schematics have been provided to the city for review. (info)
Events:
Volunteering Opportunities:
Post-Thanksgiving North Snoqualmie Ridge Planting Event on Nov. 30 from 9am-12pm. (info)
What we are currently loving!
Blu Sardinia in Redmond offers an authentic Sardinian dining experience, specializing in traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of seafood and pasta options, including their signature Fregola Sarda and Seadas dessert. The warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it an excellent choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Montalcino Ristorante Italiano in Issaquah is a family-owned establishment known for its cozy ambiance and authentic Italian cuisine. Popular dishes include the Osso Buco and homemade Gnocchi, all crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The intimate setting and personalized service provide a memorable dining experience.
Vibes:
It will be a mixture of rain and clouds this week.
Snoqualmie, WA. Photo taken by @hambga via X
Final Thoughts!
Seastside Exclusive Deals:
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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)