Seastside Newsletter #76

Bellevue:

News:

• Council Roundup Council approves middle housing regulations: The Bellevue City Council approved housing policy updates that align local regulations with state laws requiring cities to broaden housing options. Changes include limiting building heights and allowing developers to pay a fee-in-lieu for constructing additional units. The council also confirmed that detached accessory dwelling units will count toward total housing units on a property. Meanwhile, the city announced a partnership with King County to establish a Community Court targeting low-level, nonviolent misdemeanors. This court, set to launch in mid-July, aims to reduce recidivism by addressing underlying issues faced by offenders. Council members proclaimed July as Disability Pride Month and Parks and Recreation Month during the meeting. (info)

• Mercer Slough farm stand is back for blueberries: U-pick blueberries will be available at Mercer Slough and Larsen Lake starting this weekend, June 28-29, after a multi-year break due to light rail construction. From July 8, picking hours will shift to Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The first 200 customers purchasing U-pick blueberries at Mercer Slough will receive free ice cream sandwiches as a promotional offer. The farm stands at both locations will remain open for additional produce sales, with hours extending from Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A new farm stand at Mercer Slough opened in August 2024, replacing an older stand made inaccessible by transit construction. This initiative reflects Bellevue's commitment to maintaining its agricultural heritage, dating back to the city's purchase of the Overlake Blueberry Farm in 1979. (info)

• Bellevue celebrates new public art additions with artist reception: The City of Bellevue recently expanded its public art collection with 15 new pieces chosen from over 200 submissions by local artists. This initiative reflects the city's commitment to supporting local creativity and cultural expression. To celebrate the acquisitions, a free reception will occur at City Hall on July 9, featuring live music by cellist Gretchen Yanover and remarks from city officials. The newly added artworks are two-dimensional paintings displayed on the second floor of City Hall. Bellevue's Portable Artworks collection aims to enhance public spaces and foster community pride. Since 2020, the Arts Commission has included 65 new works in this collection, with calls for new artwork every two years. (info)

• Community Court featured in It's Your City: Bellevue Community Court launches in mid-July as an alternative to traditional court, designed to improve safety and hold clients accountable. The initiative aims to support clients in enhancing their lives while reducing the burden on conventional court systems. This program is highlighted in the summer issue of It's Your City, which also covers the new Adventure Park at Eastgate Park, replacing the old challenge course. Residents are reminded that the Bellevue Family 4th celebration will feature live music and family entertainment, with a note to leave fireworks to professionals. Additionally, applications for the fifth annual Tree Giveaway will open on July 25, aiming to expand tree canopy in underserved areas. (info)

• Bellevue launching Office of the Grand Connection in July: Bellevue plans to establish the Office of the Grand Connection in July 2025 to enhance coordination on the I-405 crossing project. This new office will comprise a centralized staff team, including a recently appointed director who will oversee efforts to improve decision-making processes. The initiative reflects Bellevue's commitment to advancing infrastructure projects that significantly impact local connectivity. City officials aim to address the complexities of the I-405 crossing, which has been a focal point for community discussions. The establishment of this office is expected to facilitate smoother project execution and better stakeholder engagement. As the city continues to grow, enhancing these connections becomes increasingly vital for residents and commuters alike. (info)

Events:

• Bellevue Farmers Market on July 3rd. (info)

• Bellevue Family 4th on July 4th. (info)

• One Bellevue, One Book: Biographical Comix with Short Run Comix & Arts Festival on July 5th. (info)

• Meet & Greet: City Council Candidates at WaFd Bank on July 10th. (info)

Bothell & Kenmore:

News:

• Kenmore begins contract talks with new City Manager candidate: At its June 23 meeting, Kenmore City Council voted to begin contract negotiations with Teri Killgore for the permanent City Manager role. Killgore, currently Economic Development Director in Scottsdale, AZ, brings decades of public service experience, including roles in Chandler, San Jose, Vallejo, and Walnut Creek. (info)

Events:

• Break Even Bottle Program on July 1st. (info)

• Wine Wednesday at The Cottage on July 2nd. (info)

• 4th of July Market by MTPO Events on July 4th. (info)

Fall City & Snoqualmie:

News:

• Red, White Boom Returns to Snoqualmie Community Park, July 4: The Red, White & Boom celebration is set for July 4, 2025, at Snoqualmie Community Park, starting at 7 pm. This annual event, now in its ninth year, will showcase a 20-minute professional fireworks display. Attendees can enjoy inflatables, live music, food trucks, and a variety of vendors. The festival aims to provide a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of activities for children. Local officials emphasize the importance of community engagement during this festive occasion. The event has become a staple in Snoqualmie's summer celebrations. (info)

• Reclaim Confronts Pride Month Vandalism and Reaffirms Mission: On June 26, Reclaim discovered MAGA stickers placed over a Pride flag at their shelter in Snoqualmie. Staff reported the incident to local police, viewing it as an attempt to intimidate both employees and the individuals they serve. Executive Director Jen Kirk expressed sadness for those affected but reiterated the organization's commitment to equality and safety. Following the incident, Reclaim received strong community support, which staff described as uplifting. The organization encourages residents to support inclusive policies and local groups like SnoValley Pride. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities in the area. (info)

• Stage 1 Burn Ban Begins June 30 in Unincorporated King County Yard Debris and Land-Clearing Fires Prohibited: King County Fire Marshal Eric Urban implemented a Stage 1 Burn Ban for unincorporated areas starting June 30 to reduce fire hazards during the dry season. The ban restricts yard debris and land-clearing fires but permits certain recreational fires if they meet safety guidelines. Urban emphasized the importance of following these measures to prevent uncontrolled fires, stating that community efforts significantly impact fire safety. Specific rules for allowed recreational fires include using seasoned firewood, maintaining a fire size limit, and ensuring proper extinguishing methods. The ban comes amid expectations of higher temperatures, which increase the amount of dry fuel and heighten fire risks. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about burn restrictions through the Department of Local Services’ Fire Safety Burn Bans page. (info)

• Updated Three-Day Eastbound I-90 Lane Closure Begins June 30 for Bridge Repairs near Snoqualmie: The Washington State Department of Transportation has canceled the lane reduction on eastbound Interstate 90 that was scheduled to start at 6 p.m. on June 30. The closure would have affected the left two lanes between State Route 18 and Southeast North Bend Way for three days, allowing crews to perform bridge surface repairs. A new date for the closure will be announced later. Travelers in the vicinity should remain alert for any updates regarding traffic conditions. The maintenance work is contingent on weather conditions. Real-time traffic updates are available through the WSDOT mobile app and the travel map. (info)

• The First Annual Mrs. Roper Romp Pub Crawl Brings Joy and Community Spirit to North Bend: North Bend hosted its first Mrs. Roper Romp Pub Crawl on June 21st, attracting over 50 participants who celebrated community connection. Dressed in vibrant, Mrs. Roper-inspired outfits, attendees visited local bars such as The Mt Si Tavern and Twin Peaks Pub. Event organizer Tanya Radcliff highlighted the camaraderie and support for local businesses as key elements of the evening. The success of this inaugural event has sparked interest in making it an annual tradition. Participants enjoyed food and drink specials, entertainment, and opportunities for memorable photos. The hope is to grow the event while continuing to spotlight North Bend's locally owned establishments. (info)

Events:

• Fall City Learning Garden on July 2nd. (info)

• Snoqualmie Valley Connect Business Networking on July 3rd. (info)

• Red, White & Boom on July 4th. (info)

• Group Trail Run on July 6th. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Issaquah tree-cutting lawsuit centers on safety vs. views debate: A viral video of a tree tumbling down a hillside has sparked a King County lawsuit against three Issaquah homeowners accused of cutting more than 140 protected trees to improve their view. One homeowner, who says a county-owned tree damaged his home in late 2024, claims he was given verbal permission to proceed and insists the work was done to protect his family from hazardous trees—not to gain views. King County, calling the case one of the worst timber trespasses in memory, says the work destabilized a steep slope in Grand Ridge Park. The trial is set for June 2026. (info)

Events:

• Urban Forest Community Convening and Guided Walks on July 1st. (info)

• Concerts on the Green on July 1st. (info)

• Regal Summer Dollar Movies on July 1st. (info)

• Open Mic Night at the Train Depot on July 2nd. (info)

• Down Home 4th of July. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Bacteria warning issued for Houghton Beach: As of June 24, public health officials are advising people and pets to avoid the water at Kirkland’s Houghton Beach Park due to elevated bacteria levels. The swimming area will remain closed for at least one week while King County crews conduct additional testing. Signs are posted, but the rest of the park is still open. (info)

• Traffic Report: Expect major traffic impacts across Kirkland and I-405 starting Friday, June 27, as WSDOT closes all northbound lanes of I-405 — including the NE 85th St on-ramp — through 4 a.m. Monday, June 30; drivers will be detoured to NE 124th St. Simultaneously, two NE 85th St construction projects begin in early July, adding a new eastbound lane and a shared-use path near the I-405 interchange, both funded by Sound Transit. Traffic shifts are also underway at the I-405/85th intersection. Additional city projects will affect Northeast 116th Place (Goat Hill), Slater/132nd Ave NE (single-lane northbound with CKC crossing improvements), and 124th Ave NE (paving and temporary driveway closures). Flashing beacon installation at 98th Ave NE and lane closures on 100th Ave NE, Juanita Drive, and Market Street may cause delays. (info)

Events:

• Come Together in Kirkland for the 4th. (info)

• Summer Concerts at Feriton Spur Park on July 9th. (info)

• Everest Park Playground Ribbon Cutting on July 10th. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Mercer Island now permits new housing types: As of June 30, Mercer Island has adopted interim development regulations allowing more diverse and affordable housing types in response to 2023 state mandates. The city will now permit two accessory dwelling units (ADUs) per residential lot (up to 1,000 sq. ft. each), and has legalized six middle housing types: duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, stacked flats, courtyard apartments, and townhomes. The new rules also introduce a “Unit Lot Subdivision” option for selling units individually. Permanent regulations are expected in 2026 following more public input. (info)

• MI candidate named in lawsuit over Issaquah tree felling: Mercer Island City Council candidate Julie Hsieh says she and her family had no involvement in the illegal cutting of 142 trees in Issaquah, despite being named in King County’s $7 million lawsuit. Hsieh claims her only connection is helping her parents purchase the adjacent property and says they’re devastated by the environmental damage. She’s seeking answers from the prosecutor and hopes the real culprits are held accountable. (info)

• Possible measles exposure reported at Mary Wayte Pool: Public Health – Seattle & King County has confirmed two new measles cases in a household where one individual visited Mercer Island’s Mary Wayte Pool on June 18 between 1–4 p.m. Pool staff were notified on June 25 and have alerted all visitors who were present at that time. These are Washington’s 9th and 10th measles cases in 2025, believed to stem from an international visitor. Public Health urges people to monitor for symptoms; vaccinated individuals are considered well protected. (info)

Events:

• Community Coffee on July 1st. (info)

• Restoration Event | Native Plant Nursery on July 3rd. (info)

• Summer Celebration 2025 on July 12th. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Redmond and Renton police deploy drones for 911 response: The Redmond Police Department has launched Washington’s first full-time “Drones as First Responders” program, with rooftop drones automatically dispatched to emergency calls for faster, safer response. Renton Police, following a successful pilot—including locating an overdose victim—are seeking funding to launch a similar initiative. Redmond's program costs $2.25M over six years, while Renton's proposed program would cost $1.65M over five. Police say drones cut response times, enhance officer safety, and are guided by privacy policies that limit surveillance use. (info)

• Copper wire theft disrupts Redmond light rail service: Light rail service along Sound Transit’s 2 Line between South Bellevue and Downtown Redmond was disrupted on June 24 after copper wires were stolen overnight. The King County Sheriff's Office began investigating the larceny around 5:30 a.m., with service restored by 5 p.m. Though trains resumed, delays were expected. No arrests have been reported as the investigation continues. (info)

Events:

• BECU Movies at Marymoor Presented by West Coast Entertainment: Goonies on July 2nd. (info)

• Redmond Town Center Exotics Car Show on July 5th. (info)

• Derby Days on July 11th. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Police warning as bear spotted near homes in Renton, WA: Renton police advised residents to monitor their garbage following a bear sighting in the 1200 block of Thomas Lane South on Sunday evening. The bear was seen rummaging near dumpsters before moving toward Grant Avenue South, which is situated behind apartment complexes and residential backyards. Officers used their sirens to safely direct the bear away from populated areas. The Renton Police Department emphasized the importance of keeping trash secure, stating, "Please do not approach the bear; instead, maintain a great distance away if you encounter it." This warning comes as bears search for food, increasing the likelihood of encounters with humans. Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and ensure their garbage is properly secured. (info)

• July 4 at Coulon Park: What to Know - Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Independence Day, with no city-sponsored fireworks or events. The boat launch remains open 24 hours, but moorage and park access close at 7 p.m. Fireworks are prohibited in Renton and unincorporated King County. Ivar’s and Kidd Valley will close at 7 p.m., and picnic shelters are first-come, first-served. Swim beaches won’t have lifeguards, so swim at your own risk. For fireworks, check other celebrations around King County, and don’t miss the Renton River Days drone show on July 25 at 9:30 p.m. at the same park. (info)

• Henry Moses Aquatic Center will reopen June 28: After months of off-season construction, Renton’s Henry Moses Aquatic Center is set to reopen to the public on Saturday, June 28. Upgrades include new pool liners, pumps, improved locker room accessibility, and a revamped entry area with seating and shade. While some enhancements are still in progress—such as a play structure delayed by a back order—the renovations aim to boost safety, comfort, and water quality. The facility, located at 1719 Maple Valley Highway, is expected to provide a more reliable and enjoyable experience for visitors this summer. (info)

• Lobbyist highlights Renton’s wins in tough legislative session: Despite facing a challenging budget environment, Renton secured major victories in the 2025 state legislative session, according to Government Affairs Manager Eric Perry. The city received $1.5 million for Legacy Square and saw progress on public safety through House Bill 2015, which funds police recruitment. The Renton Promise program was also formalized to offer free tuition at Renton Technical College. While some projects—like a direct I-405 ramp from North 8th Street—were cut, Perry said Renton fared well overall amid statewide fiscal constraints. (info)

Events:

• Renton School District's Summer Meals Program begins on June 30th. (info)

• July 4th at Coulon Park. (info)

• Summer Concert: Point of Sail on July 10th

Sammamish:

News:

• Hunt seeks to hold Senate seat in 5th District primary: Appointed to the State Senate after Sen. Bill Ramos’s passing, Victoria Hunt is now campaigning to retain her seat in the Aug. 5 primary. A former Issaquah City Council president with a Ph.D. in ecology, Hunt has led efforts on reproductive rights, sewage spill transparency, and public safety co-response programs. She’s prioritizing school overcrowding, public safety funding, and local collaboration. Backed by Rep. Kim Schrier and Issaquah leaders, Hunt emphasizes experience and community-focused leadership, rejecting claims of partisanship from her challenger, Chad Magendanz. (info)

• Magendanz highlights experience and bipartisan record in state Senate campaign: Former State Rep. Chad Magendanz is challenging Victoria Hunt for the 5th Legislative District Senate seat in the Aug. 5 primary, touting his bipartisan work, military and education background, and leadership on education funding. A Navy veteran and CTE teacher, Magendanz criticized Olympia’s fiscal management and recent public safety policies, while emphasizing his role in the McCleary education reforms that increased school funding without raising taxes. Branding himself as a moderate Republican with the most independent voting record in LD5 since 1991, Magendanz promises a return to collaboration and accountability in state government. (info)

• King County Roads Sahalee Way project starts June 28: A five-day full closure of Sahalee Way NE between NE 50th Street and NE 37th Way will begin June 28 as King County Road Services replaces a failing culvert and rehabilitates another to prevent landslides caused by soil erosion. All traffic—including emergency vehicles, buses, bikes, and pedestrians—must follow detour routes through July 2. The project addresses water seepage from damaged culvert joints and is managed entirely by King County Roads. (info)

Events:

• City Council Meeting on July 1st. (info)

• Fourth on the Plateau 2025 on July 4th. (info)

• Coffee & Connections Networking Meetup on July 8th. (info)

• Three Trick Pony on July 10th. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Public Input Opportunity Chateau Ste Michelle West Subdivision Project: The City of Woodinville encourages residents to provide input on the Chateau Ste. Michelle West Subdivision Project. The public can submit written comments until July 9, 2025, by 4 PM local time. The project aims to develop a subdivision in the area, and community involvement is critical to its planning process. The event starts on June 25, 2025, at 4 PM, allowing ample time for feedback. City Hall will collect comments at 17301 133rd Ave NE, Woodinville, Washington. This initiative reflects a commitment to community engagement in local development. (info)

Events:

• Yoga at the Carol Edwards Center on June 30th. (info)

• Music Bingo @ Tsillan Cellars on July 3rd. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• The Herbfarm (Woodinville): Each evening is a nine-course Pacific Northwest fairy tale, built from whatever the on-site gardens and local foragers deliver that day, so the menu changes as quickly as the forecast. The three-hour parade of fir-tip cocktails, truffle-laden bites, and storytelling sommeliers can run close to a grand for two, but it feels more like dinner theater than dinner. Between courses, signature hits like black cod with honeyed glaze prove why even the Yelp crowd swoons over plates named “Truffle Treasure.”

• Taqueria La Venadita (Issaquah): This no-frills counter tucked beside a mini-market turns out tacos so juicy you’ll be catching drips with the complimentary chips after the first bite. Go for cabeza, lengua, or weekend birria, or demolish a burrito the size of your forearm and still get change from a twenty. Service is lightning-fast and unfailingly friendly, making it the perfect pit stop after a Cougar Mountain hike or Costco run.

Vibes:

• Sunday through Tuesday roll in with glorious sunshine and real summer warmth, ideal for lake dips, patio lunches, or spontaneous evening walks. Midweek cooldown. By Wednesday, clouds gather, bringing relief with milder and more subdued days. Think cozy coffee spots or afternoon strolls in filtered light. Festive weekend ahead. Thursday through Saturday offer a picture-perfect mix of sun and clouds, great groundwork for Fourth of July plans, fireworks, or relaxed park hangouts.

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