Public Meetings - Kirkland, Washington

This meeting took place on December 26, 2024. No agenda or minutes were available. The only recorded transcription was the phrase "Oh no, no, no." No public comments, discussion items, or key outcomes were identified from the provided materials.

No agenda, minutes, or substantive transcript were provided. The only transcript fragment ("No, I don't do it with that. But I was like, oh,") appears to be an incomplete utterance and does not constitute a record of the meeting.

The Kirkland City Council met on December 10, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included a commendation for life-saving bystanders, special presentations on employee service awards and a national stormwater innovation award, an update on the Connections Crisis Clinic, public comments, approval of the consent calendar, and adoption of several key items including the 2025-2026 biennial budget, 2025 property tax levy, 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program, and the 2044 Comprehensive Plan after extensive discussion and amendments. The council also adopted the annual proclamation calendar and approved moving forward with all four applicants for the Cultural Arts Commission. Consent Calendar - Approved 7-0, including minutes of November 19, 2024; audit of accounts (payroll $4,600,329.65 and bills $10,298,691.59); claims from Candis Alford, Tim Chalimbekov, and Eugeniu Turlea; and the following items: Ordinance O-4892 (school impact fees), Resolution R-5655 (multifamily housing property tax exemption contract with Fairfield Slater, LLC), Resolution R-5661 (2023 Streets Levy Accountability Report), Resolution R-5662 (Human Services Pooled Fund interlocal agreement), Resolution R-5665 (ratifying and ending windstorm emergency), and quarterly updates for IT, automated safety camera program, police animal services, police dashboard, financial dashboard, sales tax, and procurement. Public Comments & Testimony - 22 speakers addressed the council during Items from the Audience (45-minute limit, restrictions lifted). Many spoke about the 2044 Comprehensive Plan. Supporters included representatives from Plymouth Housing, Eastside for All, HCC, FutureWise, Hopelink, and Master Builders Association, who emphasized the need for affordable housing, citing that 23% of homeowners and 38% of renters are cost-burdened (paying more than 30% of income on housing). Opponents expressed concerns about density, loss of neighborhood character, lack of transparency, safety near supportive housing, and increased property taxes. Other topics included a business owner affected by road construction at Totem Lake Square, and a speaker correcting an outdated transit frequency reference in the comp plan. Discussion Items - 2024 Year-End Budget Adjustments: Ordinance O-4893 approved 7-0, amending the 2023-2024 biennial budget with total appropriation adjustments of $7.4 million, including $750,000 for 100th Ave NE flashing beacons and $450,000 in affordable housing fees in lieu. - 2025-2026 Final Budget Adoption: Ordinance O-4895 adopted 7-0 after an amendment (moved by Councilmember Falcone, seconded by Councilmember Tymczyszyn) to shift $5,000 from Festivals and Functions to Pride Across the Bridge for translation and inclusive event materials. Resolution R-5664 adopting fiscal policies also approved 7-0. The budget includes a historic per-capita investment in human services of $32.47. - 2025 Property Tax Levy Adoption: Ordinance O-4894 approved 7-0, setting the levy at $43.9 million with a final rate of $0.92569 per $1,000 assessed value. - 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program Adoption: Resolution R-5663 approved 7-0, with a six-year funded CIP of just under $259 million and total program (including unfunded) of just under $1.3 billion. - 2044 Comprehensive Plan Adoption: Extensive discussion and multiple amendments. Final vote on Ordinance O-4896 was 5-2 (Councilmembers Pascal and Tymczyszyn opposed). Key amendments: - Policy LU-3.X adopted 7-0: "Optimize middle housing to increase housing options in the City." - Policy LU-4.3 amended 6-1 to read "review the reduction of minimum lot sizes in residential zones to support housing affordability and more opportunities for fee simple ownership." - Policy H-1.5 amended 4-3 to add "state, and federal" resources and adjust development standards based on learnings from existing housing facilities. - Alternative Policy H-2.31 adopted 7-0 (replacing a withdrawn policy) focusing on fiscal transparency and public-private partnerships. - Policies J-16 and J-20 adopted 7-0 encouraging property consolidation for improved access and design at specific sites. - City Council Annual Proclamation Calendar Adoption: Approved 7-0, adding Mental Health Awareness Month (May) and Veterans & Military Families Month (November). - Interview Selection Committee Recommendations: Motion to suspend rules and interview all four applicants for the vacant Cultural Arts Commission position passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items approved 7-0. - 2024 year-end budget adjustments approved (Ordinance O-4893). - 2025-2026 budget adopted with amendment (Ordinance O-4895). - 2025 property tax levy set (Ordinance O-4894). - 2025-2030 CIP adopted (Resolution R-5663). - 2044 Comprehensive Plan adopted 5-2 (Ordinance O-4896) after multiple amendments. - Proclamation calendar adopted with two new proclamations. - All four applicants advanced for Cultural Arts Commission interviews. - Executive session on litigation deferred to January due to pending Court of Appeals decision.

Mayor Kelli Curtis called the special meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. on December 10, 2024. All seven councilmembers were present: Deputy Mayor Jay Arnold, Councilmembers Neal Black, Amy Falcone, Jon Pascal, Penny Sweet, John Tymczyszyn, and Mayor Curtis. The sole business item was Ordinance O-4896, adopting the 2044 Comprehensive Plan (File No. CAM22-00023) under RCW 36.70a.130. Planning staff presented staff- and council-initiated amendments; no public comment period was held. Council adopted a series of amendments, then postponed final action on Ordinance O-4896 to the regular business meeting later that evening. The special meeting adjourned at 7:17 p.m. Staff Presentation and Context - Director of Planning and Building Adam Weinstein, Deputy Director Allison Zike, and Senior Planners Scott Guter, Janice Swenson, and Lindsay Levine presented the draft 2044 Comprehensive Plan. - Staff said the plan had been reduced from an initial capacity of about 38,000 housing units to 23,000 housing units, and described it as a moderate plan focusing growth in urban growth centers, neighborhood centers, middle housing, and affordable housing. - Staff summarized public feedback about Figure LU-3 appearing to label the Market Street Corridor and other commercial areas as neighborhood centers, about the residential mixed-use designation, and about language directing growth in and near neighborhood centers. Discussion Items - Figure LU-3: Councilmember Tymczyszyn moved to remove Figure LU-3, saying it was introduced too late to fully analyze. Councilmember Black said the map was intended to add clarity but had caused concern; Councilmember Pascal noted it had not been in public documents. Motion carried 7-0. - Policy H-1.6: Staff had removed highlighted text on the grounds that public notice is already required by law. Councilmember Tymczyszyn moved to retain the highlighted text; Councilmember Pascal argued it would require more transparent notice of public benefits. Motion carried 7-0. - Glossary – Livable Community: Councilmember Sweet moved the revised staff Option 1 definition, which describes a livable community as one allowing people of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and incomes to thrive. Motion carried 7-0. - Totem Lake Business District / Parmac: Councilmember Pascal proposed Policy 33.1 requiring a subarea plan before consideration of expanding Housing Incentive Area 4. Staff confirmed the Parmac property owner’s request included zoning changes that could allow up to 1,200 residential units and heights up to 150 feet on portions of the site. Pascal argued that allowing dense housing without transit, parks, access, or a plan would be ad hoc and displace small businesses; Deputy Mayor Arnold said commercial/industrial capacity should be preserved while studying mixed-use options. The combined motion was divided. Policy 33.1 passed 7-0; a motion to continue expanding Housing Incentive Area 4 failed 0-7; and a motion to require completion of the subarea plan before any expansion passed 7-0. - New general policies: Council approved Policy GP-5. (“Support and promote the livability of our neighborhoods.”) on a 5-2 vote; approved Policy GP-X (as amended) requiring additional planning and environmental review for zoning code amendments that could add residential or employment capacity; approved Policy GP-4.5 on two-way communication; and approved revised Policy ED 1.1 supporting retention and expansion of businesses and land capacity for commercial/industrial uses. - Housing and land-use policies: Deputy Mayor Arnold’s Policy LU-4.4, focusing highest-intensity residential uses in and near urban growth centers and neighborhood centers while optimizing middle housing outside them, passed 7-0. Councilmember Falcone and Mayor Curtis worked to restore language about 10-minute neighborhoods. The LU-2.6 amendment inserting “and 10-minute neighborhoods” passed 4-3 after Falcone accepted a modification. For LU-3.2, Falcone proposed restoring language about neighborhood centers, commercial services, parks, schools, and quality transit; Councilmember Black successfully moved to replace that phrase with “10-minute neighborhoods” (5-2), and the amended LU-3.2 then passed 4-3. Council then removed Policies LU-3.3 and LU-3.4 by 5-2. - Land Use Map Key: Councilmember Tymczyszyn moved to strike “Mixed Use” next to “Residential” in the draft map key. He said the change was supported by residents and the Fin Hill Neighborhood Association. Councilmember Sweet said the definition was unchanged and removing it would not change meaning; Councilmember Falcone favored keeping “Residential Mixed Use” for transparency. Deputy Mayor Arnold and Councilmember Pascal supported removal because the term had caused confusion. Motion carried 4-3. - Other staff amendments: No objections were raised to staff-initiated amendments already reflected in the ordinance, including housing-element terminology edits, a parks and open space greenway amendment consistent with the Finn Hill Neighborhood Plan, and a public-services policy amendment recommended by the Lake Washington School District Coordinating Committee. Council also agreed to retain the existing 2015 shorter vision statement with minor edits. Key Outcomes - Motion to remove Figure LU-3 from the 2044 Comprehensive Plan: carried 7-0 (Tymczyszyn/Pascal). - Motion to retain highlighted text in Policy H-1.6: carried 7-0 (Tymczyszyn/Pascal). - Motion to approve revised glossary definition of “Livable Community” (staff Option 1): carried 7-0 (Sweet/Falcone). - Motion to amend the Totem Lake Business District Plan to add Policy 33.1 requiring a subarea plan: carried 7-0 (Pascal/Black). - Motion to continue expanding Housing Incentive Area 4: failed 0-7. - Motion to require completion of the subarea plan before expansion of Housing Incentive Area 4: carried 7-0 (Pascal/Black). - Motion to add Policy GP-5. (“Support and promote the livability of our neighborhoods.”): carried 5-2; yes: Arnold, Curtis, Pascal, Sweet, Tymczyszyn; no: Black, Falcone. - Motion to add Policy GP-X as amended (striking “or increased heights” and “additional”): carried 7-0. The amendment to strike those words also carried 7-0 (Falcone/Black). - Motion to approve revised Policy ED 1.1: carried 7-0 (Pascal/Falcone). - Motion to add Policy GP-4.5 on two-way communication: carried 7-0 (Pascal/Falcone). - Motion to approve Policy LU-4.4: carried 7-0 (Arnold/Pascal). - Motion to amend Policy LU-2.6 to insert “and 10-minute neighborhoods”: carried 4-3; yes: Black, Curtis, Falcone, Sweet; no: Arnold, Pascal, Tymczyszyn. - Motion to amend Policy LU-3.2 to strike the neighborhood-centers/commercial-services/transit phrase and insert “10-minute neighborhoods”: carried 5-2; yes: Arnold, Black, Curtis, Falcone, Sweet; no: Pascal, Tymczyszyn. - Motion to approve amended Policy LU-3.2: carried 4-3; yes: Black, Curtis, Falcone, Sweet; no: Arnold, Pascal, Tymczyszyn. - Motion to remove Policies LU-3.3 and LU-3.4: carried 5-2; yes: Arnold, Black, Curtis, Falcone, Sweet; no: Pascal, Tymczyszyn. - Motion to strike “Mixed Use” next to “Residential” in the draft Land Use Map Key: carried 4-3; yes: Arnold, Black, Pascal, Tymczyszyn; no: Curtis, Falcone, Sweet. - Motion to postpone adoption of Ordinance O-4896 until consideration of the 2044 Comprehensive Plan item 9.e at the regular meeting on December 10, 2024: carried 7-0 (Arnold/Pascal). - No final vote on the adoption of Ordinance O-4896 was taken during the special meeting.

The Kirkland City Council met on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, for a study session starting at 5:30 p.m. and a regular meeting beginning at 7:30 p.m., adjourning at 11:27 p.m. The meeting included a study session on the 2044 Comprehensive Plan, a public hearing on the 2025-2026 budget, and action on several resolutions and ordinances. The council also heard from numerous public speakers on various topics, including housing, transportation, and climate action. Consent Calendar - Approved 7-0 by voice vote. Items included approval of minutes from October 24, 2024 (special) and November 6, 2024; audit of accounts (payroll $4,955,617.15, bills $7,254,057.52); acknowledgment of a claim from Ana-Irina Springer; award of a construction contract for NE 73rd Street Watermain Replacement to SCI Infrastructure, LLC for $861,835.66; acceptance of a donation of real property adjacent to OO Denny Park from Daniel and Amy Wong via Resolution R-5657; acceptance of a 10-year covenant on the Kirkland Performance Center property via Resolution R-5658; acknowledgment of the Native American Heritage Day Proclamation (November 29, 2024), Tourism Development Committee 2025-2026 Funding Recommendations, 2024 Third Quarter Fire Department Dashboard, 2024 Second Quarter Financial Management Report, September 2024 Financial Dashboard Report, and Procurement Report; and declaration of surplus vehicles. Public Comments & Testimony - Study Session (5:30 p.m.): No public testimony during the study session. - Regular Meeting (7:30 p.m.): - Items from the Audience: Twenty individuals addressed the council on a range of topics. Speakers included Jennifer Loy (concerns about Caroline Woods Park management), Jack Stroud (senior housing and universal design), Paul DeVries (independent review of staff decisions and drainage issues), Bev Marcus (concerns about last-minute amendments to the Comprehensive Plan), Jennie Jaeger (urging more housing near transit), Kira Krimkevich (presented a petition with 4,136 signatures against neighborhood densification), Ken McKenzie (advocating focus on current residents and local interests), Alex Zimmerman (made offensive and hurtful remarks; the mayor reiterated the council's commitment to inclusivity and free speech while condemning the statements), Lisa Bereson (issues with school zone speed timing and traffic), Alex Fratila (advocated for walkable neighborhoods and opposed turning Houghton Park and Ride into an iceplex), Jill Stoddart (questioned the need for new land use designations and methodology for public input), and others. - Public Hearing on 2025-2026 Budget: Speakers included Brady Nordstrom (Eastside Affordable Housing Coalition – expressed support for affordable housing investments but urged expansion), Debbie Lacy (Eastside for All – supported human services funding but noted only 50% of requests funded), Ron Snell (People for Climate Action Kirkland – advocated for heat pumps, weatherization, and EV charging in multifamily housing), Dave Cunningham (climate action – emphasized decarbonization and electrification), and Alex Zimmerman (again made offensive comments; hearing closed with written comments considered). Discussion Items - 2044 Comprehensive Plan Amendments: A lengthy discussion occurred during the study session and continued as a business item. Deputy Director Alison Zike presented staff-initiated amendments and councilmember-initiated amendments. Key topics included: defining growth areas (urban growth centers and neighborhood centers vs. 10-minute neighborhoods), the role of transit, language about “livable communities,” policies on parking minimums, faith-based housing, permanent supportive housing, and land use designations. Council members expressed varying positions, with some favoring more precision (e.g., Councilmember Black, Deputy Mayor Arnold) and others advocating for retaining broader language (e.g., Councilmember Falcone). No final votes were taken; direction was given to staff to refine language for the December 10 meeting. - Preliminary 2025-2026 Operating Budget: Interim Financial Planning Manager Kevin Pelstring presented staff recommendations and amendments. The city manager proposed freeing up an additional $500,000 by delaying a matching fund reserve to 2027-2028, resulting in $1.2 million in unprogrammed general fund cash. Staff recommended allocating these funds to human services (Option C, partially) and increasing the public defender contract due to potential Supreme Court changes. Council expressed general support; final adoption set for December 10. - 2025 Preliminary Property Tax Levy Adoption (Ordinance O-4890): Finance Director Michael Olson presented. Motion by Councilmember Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Falcone. Approved 7-0. - Transportation Strategic Plan (TSP) Adoption (Resolution R-5660): Transportation Manager Doug McIntyre and Planner Kim Scrivner presented. Motion by Councilmember Pascal, seconded by Councilmember Falcone. Approved 7-0. - 2025 State Legislative Agenda Adoption (Resolution R-5659): Government Relations Manager Diana Hart presented. Additions included support for a graduated REAT rate model and required equity analysis for traffic camera enforcement. Council agreed to direct staff to coordinate with the Department of Revenue regarding an equity analysis of business license late fees (option 2). Motion by Councilmember Black, seconded by Councilmember Sweet. Approved 7-0. - Houghton Village Development Plan Briefing and City Council Annual Proclamation Calendar: Postponed to December 10. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 7-0. - 2025 Preliminary Property Tax Levy (Ordinance O-4890): Approved 7-0. - Transportation Strategic Plan (Resolution R-5660): Approved 7-0. - 2025 State Legislative Agenda (Resolution R-5659): Approved 7-0. - 2044 Comprehensive Plan Amendments: Discussion continued; no votes taken. Council directed staff to revise several policies and bring back for action on December 10. - Executive Session: Removed from agenda by unanimous consent.

The Kirkland Planning Commission held a study session on November 14, 2024, from 6:01 PM to 7:21 PM, to receive the first briefing on Washington State Housing Codes Compliance (File No. CAM24-00561). The meeting focused on five state house bills requiring amendments to the city code by June 30, 2025. Commissioners discussed the scope of minimum compliance, potential optimization, public engagement, and coordination with other commissions. No public comments were received. The meeting also included an administrative update on the meeting calendar and the Comprehensive Plan adoption process. Study Session: WA State Housing Codes Compliance Briefing 1 Senior Planner Scott Guter presented the staff's recommended approach to amending the Kirkland Municipal Code to comply with five state housing bills: - HB 1110 / ESHB 2321 (Middle Housing): Requires allowing at least six of nine middle housing types at prescribed minimum densities (4–6 units per lot depending on transit proximity and affordability). Identified gaps in development standards, parking, and minimum lot sizes. - EHB 1337 (Accessory Dwelling Units): The city largely complies, but adjustments needed for ADU size limits, height, placement, and parking standards. - ESHB 1293 (Local Design Review): Requires clear and objective design standards; staff noted current middle housing design standards may need revision. A separate project on the design review process will come to the Commission later. - ESHB 1998 (Co-Living): Requires allowing co-living as a standalone use on lots with six or more units, with lower parking standards and new definitions. - EHB 1060 (Parking): (Mentioned in discussion) Allows tandem parking, gravel surfaces, and requires adjustments to non-conforming parking codes. Staff recommended adopting minimum state standards in this compliance phase, with code optimization deferred to a future phase. Staff also proposed considering adjustments to inclusionary zoning requirements, with support from ARCH (a regional housing consortium). Commission Discussion & Positions - Commissioner Jacobson: Supported a joint meeting with the Transportation Commission and suggested a joint meeting with the Design Review Board to avoid siloed conversations. Expressed concern about separating inclusionary zoning discussions from development standards. Emphasized that Kirkland already allows many middle housing types and asked staff to acknowledge that in analysis. Favored a minimal compliance approach with a faster timeline. - Commissioner Heiser (Vice Chair): Requested three options for compliance: minimum, moderate, and maximum (extreme affordability and density). Questioned minimum lot sizes for 4–6 units per lot. Noted that existing low-density zones have varying lot sizes (5,000 to 35,000 sq ft). Asked about focusing growth in neighborhood centers. - Commissioner Madeya: Asked whether the city would limit itself to six of nine housing types or explore all nine. Supported building on Kirkland's success with ADUs and middle housing. Asked for help prioritizing low-hanging fruit. - Commissioner Reusser: Raised the challenge of homeowners associations and CC&Rs restricting ADUs and middle housing. Asked about the city's ability to promote ADUs in such neighborhoods. Staff responded that the city does not enforce private covenants and state law does not override them. - Commissioner Robbins: Suggested a "pilot provision" to preserve future inclusionary zoning options without immediately requiring affordable housing set-asides, to avoid inhibiting new housing types. Asked for clarification on "must allow six of nine housing types"—whether that applies to each residential zone or citywide. Asked whether ADUs count toward the 4–6 unit density allowance (staff confirmed yes). Raised concerns about parking requirements near future major transit stops (Stride BRT and K-line), noting that a safety study may be needed to justify deviations from state parking limits. Suggested deferring the parking discussion until the K-line opens. - Commissioner Rozmyn: Seconded the pilot provision idea. Supported a streamlined timeline for minimum compliance to allow more time for other work program items. Agreed that joint study sessions could be combined. - Chair Rutherford: Asked about increasing height limits (staff clarified height changes are not part of minimum compliance). Discussed view corridors—only public view corridors are protected; private covenants are separate. Key Outcomes - Staff will proceed with a minimum compliance approach for the June 30, 2025 deadline, while preparing options for a future optimization phase. - The December 12, 2024 meeting is canceled; the next meeting is January 9, 2025. - Staff will poll Commissioners to schedule the annual retreat (public meeting) for work program update. - The Comprehensive Plan is under City Council review: a study session on November 19, 2024, will include staff-initiated and council-initiated amendments; adoption is scheduled for December 10, 2024. - Staff will consider combining the Transportation Commission study session into a joint meeting with the Planning Commission, potentially reducing the number of study sessions. - The public open house on housing code compliance will be scheduled between the first and second Commission briefings; staff will explore holding it on the same day as a joint study session. - No votes were taken.

The Kirkland City Council held a study session at 5:30 PM and a regular meeting at 7:30 PM on November 6, 2024. The study session reviewed the Preliminary 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and 2025-2026 Budget. The regular meeting included public hearings on the budget, CIP, Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), and property tax levy; a consent calendar; and business items on the Transportation Strategic Plan (TSP), Winterfest funding, and a potential public-private partnership to convert the Areté Apartments to affordable housing. The council approved Winterfest funding and directed staff to prepare a resolution for the Areté project. Study Session – Preliminary 2025-2030 CIP and 2025-2026 Budget - Interim Financial Planning Manager Kevin Pelstring, Senior Financial Analyst Jessica Clem, and Interim Capital Projects Manager George Minassian presented updates on the CIP and budget. - Council discussed new projects (e.g., pedestrian safety enhancements on Lake Washington Boulevard, stormwater retrofit at Houghton Park & Ride, automatic locking gates at parks), modified projects (e.g., Fire Station 24 training configuration, Odenny Park Pavilion), and unfunded projects. - Council provided feedback on the budget, including potential uses of unprogrammed resources (estimated $764,727 after adjustments). Items discussed included human services grants (Option C), a council newsletter, utility bill insert, Eastrail Partnership, Eastside Pathways, Leadership Eastside, a pipe threading machine, and funding for festivals/anniversary events. No final decisions were made; staff will bring back recommendations on November 19. Public Hearings - Combined Public Hearing (Budget, CIP, TIP): Opened at 7:30 PM. Interim Financial Planning Manager Kevin Pelstring gave an overview. Testimony was provided by: - Dila Ertem and Tanushri Goyal (Lake Washington High School SNAP interns): Supported sustainability initiatives and youth transit programs. - David Haines (Juanita Beach): Criticized Seattle progressive policies, budget allocations to nonprofit capacity-building, and public safety issues; urged improved laws and oversight. - Joe Kunzler (remote): Encouraged automated traffic enforcement for speeding and suspended licenses. - Public Hearing on 2025 Property Tax Levy: Opened after the combined hearing. Director of Finance Michael Olson provided an overview. No testimony was offered. Ordinance O-4890 was not acted on. Public Comments & Testimony (Items from the Audience) - Jennifer Loy: Expressed frustration with Parks Department communication regarding Caroline Woods Park classification and maintenance. - Lisa McConnell: Expressed enthusiasm for the bike valet program and its community engagement benefits; anticipated a future presentation. - David Haines (Juanita Beach): Repeated criticisms of city policies, public safety, and budget priorities; called for independent oversight. - Jennie Jaeger (Juanita resident): Supported the potential conversion of Areté Apartments to affordable housing. Consent Calendar Approved 7-0 (motion by Councilmember Sweet, second by Councilmember Tymczyszyn). Items included: - Approval of minutes from October 8 (special) and October 15 (regular) meetings. - Audit of accounts: Payroll $5,785,897.86; Bills $14,181,594.80. - Claims for damages acknowledged. - Stormwater Awareness Week Proclamation. - Resignation acceptance and appointment of alternates: Transportation Commission (Sophia Stull) and Park Board (Paul Stull). - Ordinance O-4888 (business licensing late fees) and O-4891 (telecommunications rights-of-way) approved. - Resolution R-5650 (reallocation of ARCH housing funds from Kenmore to Redmond), R-5652 (RCR budget), R-5653 (NORCOM budget), R-5654 (vehicle donation to RCR) approved. - Kirkland Cares Low-Income Support Program Update, September 2024 Sales Tax Report, and Procurement Report acknowledged. Business Items Draft Transportation Strategic Plan (TSP) - Transportation Planner Kimberly Scrivner presented the draft TSP, summarizing goals and implementation plans. Council provided feedback and direction. No action was taken on draft Resolution R-5656; adoption is scheduled for November 19. Appointment of Interview Selection Committee (ISC) for Cultural Arts Commission - Three councilmembers were drawn by lot: Councilmembers Sweet, Falcone, and Tymczyszyn. Approval of Additional Funding for Winterfest (Kirkland Downtown Association) - Deputy City Manager James Lopez presented the request for one-time funding to cover increased holiday lighting costs. - Council suspended its policies and procedures (motion by Councilmember Sweet, second by Deputy Mayor Arnold; passed 7-0) and then approved Option 1: up to $40,000 from the City Council Special Projects Reserve for downtown holiday lighting (motion by Councilmember Sweet, second by Deputy Mayor Arnold; passed 7-0). Potential Public/Private Partnership – Areté Apartments Affordable Housing Conversion - Planning and Building Director Adam Weinstein and Planning Manager Dawn Nelson presented a proposal to convert all 290 units to affordable housing with a 99-year covenant. The city’s contribution would be $500,000 (already budgeted for another project). The partnership includes SRM Development, American Opportunity Foundation/Pacific Affordable Foundation, and Sustainable Kirkland, LLC. - Council directed staff to bring back a resolution and fiscal note at the November 15 meeting (motion by Deputy Mayor Arnold, second by Councilmember Tymczyszyn; passed 7-0). Reports City Council Regional and Committee Reports - Councilmembers reported on various events and meetings, including: Veterans Assembly at Lakeview Elementary, Washington State Supreme Court argument, King County Regional Transit Committee, Eastside Transportation Partnership, legislative work group, AED installation at Crestwoods Park, RCR Principals Assembly, King County Board of Health restaurant rating review, Cascade Water Alliance, Metropolitan Solid Waste Advisory Committee, Sound Cities Association Legislative Committee, King County Affordable Housing Committee, Washington State Affordable Housing Advisory Board, Kirkland Police swearing-in, Lake Washington vs. Juanita football game, tour of Plymouth Housing permanent supportive housing facility, Master Builder Association Housing Solutions breakfast, Eastside Mayors panel with Imagine Housing, meeting with King County Regional Homelessness Authority CEO, Kirkland Arbor Day, Día de Los Muertos, Leadership Symposium, and Elevate Kirkland fundraiser. City Manager Reports - City Manager Kurt Triplett updated on the Kirkland Performance Center (KPC) state grant, the Kraken partnership (funding and procurement breakthrough), Eastside Public Safety Communications Agency (EPSAC) transition to PCERN, and a meeting with King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks. - Council approved a motion (by Councilmember Black, second by Councilmember Falcone; passed 7-0) authorizing the City Manager to present a resolution at the November 19 meeting to execute a covenant ensuring KPC remains a performance venue for at least 10 years, satisfying Department of Commerce grant requirements. - A calendar update noted that the electric leaf blower demonstration with state legislators is rescheduled to the week of December 16. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 7-0. - Winterfest Funding: Up to $40,000 approved for downtown holiday lighting (Option 1). - Areté Apartments: Staff directed to prepare a resolution and fiscal note for $500,000 city contribution to support affordable housing conversion; final action expected November 15. - Kirkland Performance Center: Council authorized staff to bring a covenant resolution for the November 19 meeting. - Transportation Strategic Plan: Will be brought back for adoption on November 19. - Interview Selection Committee: Councilmembers Sweet, Falcone, and Tymczyszyn selected. - Budget and CIP: Public hearings held; final adoption scheduled for December 10 (budget, CIP) and January 7, 2025 (TIP). - Property Tax Levy: Public hearing held; ordinance adoption set for November 19. - Unprogrammed Resources: Council discussed priorities (human services, Eastrail, Eastside Pathways, pipe threading, newsletter, etc.) and will finalize on November 19. - Neighborhood Association Insurance: City Manager will bring options to address legal exposure from insurance provision.

Note: The agenda and minutes list the meeting date as October 24, 2024, but the user instructed to use October 28, 2024, for this summary. The Kirkland City Council held a special meeting on October 28, 2024, to conduct a study session on the proposed 2025-2026 biennial budget. The meeting lasted from 3:00 p.m. to 9:09 p.m., with breaks. The council reviewed the financial overview, revenue and expenditure trends, service packages, and major discussion topics. They also received an initial review of the council proclamation calendar and heard two hot topics from the city manager. The council voted unanimously (7-0) to adopt a substitute agenda. No public comments were taken. Discussion Items 2025-2026 Preliminary Budget Discussion City Manager Kurt Triplett and Director of Finance and Administration Michael Olson introduced the budget, emphasizing that the city is able to maintain current service levels and make targeted investments thanks to higher-than-expected revenues. The total proposed budget across all funds is $1.77 billion, with net new expenditures of approximately $611 million. The general fund is increasing by $19 million (5.7%) compared to the 2023-2024 revised budget. Key drivers include growth in sales tax, utility tax, and business license fees. - Financial Overview: Interim Financial Planning Manager Kevin Pelstring presented the general fund forecast, showing a reduction in the projected deficit from $7.25 million (May 2024 forecast) to a small surplus in 2025-2026, largely due to $2 million in additional sales tax and $1.8 million in higher utility tax revenues. However, a structural deficit of $10.8 million is projected for 2027-2028. - Major Discussion Topics: - Human Services Funding: The city manager's proposed budget includes $5.2 million for human services grants, matching the historic level of funding (Option B) but not funding Option C ($1.87 million additional). The funding uses $658,000 from opioid settlement dollars and $610,000 from the general fund. Councilmember Amy Falcone expressed concern about listing police-related items under human services, arguing it inflates the figure. Councilmember Penny Sweet emphasized the need to ensure the KSARC (sexual assault) pilot is additive, not supplanting existing services. - Outside Agency Funding: The budget maintains funding for partner agencies and special events at prior levels, with $98,000 ongoing for the Kirkland Downtown Association and $100,000 one-time for the Kirkland Performance Center. Tourism funding from lodging tax totals just under $700,000. - Health Benefits: Health care costs are a major driver of personnel cost increases. The city's high deductible plan premium will increase 15% in 2025 and 10% in 2026, with a 12.1% increase projected for 2027-2029. The health benefits fund balance is projected to remain above the required 16-week claims reserve. - Credit Card Fees: Staff presented a pilot to add a processing fee on development services and security deposit payments, currently built into rates. Councilmembers expressed mixed views; Deputy Mayor Jay Arnold and Councilmember Neal Black preferred to continue building costs into rates, while Councilmember Jon Pascal suggested offering a discount for e-check payments. No decision was made; discussion will continue. - Review by Council Goal Area: The council reviewed service packages organized by 11 goal areas. Notable highlights include: - Inclusive and Equitable Community: $100,000 one-time for outreach and engagement; $300,000 for an HR analyst; continued funding for cultural events and the Kirkland Teen Union Building (KTUB) at $1.8 million one-time (offset by $800,000 in grants and fees). - Vibrant Neighborhoods: $50,000 for a study on the 1st Avenue NE public pathway near Lake Washington High School; $250,000 for a transit study; increased funding for neighborhood matching grants (from $34,000 to $39,000 per year). - Community Safety: $28,000 for a criminal justice system review; funding for a second ladder truck (cost: $1 million) due to the current truck's reliability issues; a sexual assault advocate pilot in partnership with KSARC (concept, not finalized). - Supportive Human Services: $1.2 million one-time for enhanced human services grants; $100,000 for the Kirkland Health and Wellness Fair; $150,000 for the HART team flexible fund. - Balanced Transportation: $80,000 for a green trip program; replacement of the speed radar trailer. - Abundant Parks, Open Spaces, and Recreation: New groundskeepers for new parks ($390,000 one-time); $10.1 million in capital investments including $3.6 million for Peter Kirk pool renovation. - Attainable Housing: $415,000 per year to ARCH Housing Trust Fund; $350,000 one-time CDBG contribution. - Financial Stability: Reserve replenishments include $942,000 for general fund reserves; adoption of new REET reserve policies. - Sustainable Environment: $162,000 for energy advisor; $30,000 for greenhouse gas inventory; funding for heat pump and weatherization programs via waste management rebates. - Thriving Economy: $60,000 from Port of Seattle grant; $112,000 for community programs; conversion of a vacant position to an economic development manager. - Dependable Infrastructure: Various IT and facilities investments, including $300,000 for station area activation; $130,000 for fleet management software; $200,000 ongoing for PM Web capital software. Initial Review of Council Proclamation Calendar Communications Program Manager David Wohlbrecht presented the proposed 2025-2026 proclamation calendar. Staff recommended removing Juneteenth (now a paid holiday) and adding new proclamations such as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Councilmember Falcone requested keeping Juneteenth for awareness. Councilmember Tymczyszyn suggested a Veterans Day proclamation in 2025. The formal proposal will come to the council for action in November. City Manager Hot Topics City Manager Triplett briefed the council on two items: 1. Kirkland Performance Center Agreement: The city will enter an agreement with the Department of Commerce to secure $1.2 million in state funds for KPC renovations, with a covenant that the space remains a theater for 10 years. 2. Potential Affordable Housing Acquisition: Amazon has expressed interest in purchasing the Arete apartments (200+ units) in partnership with a nonprofit to make them affordable at 50-80% AMI for 99 years. The city would be a sponsor with a $5,000 contribution. The deal must close by end of 2024. Councilmembers expressed caution and requested detailed information before deciding. Key Outcomes - The council voted 7-0 to adopt the substitute agenda. - Staff will bring back additional information on the KSARC pilot, the criminal justice review scope, and the proclamation calendar for the November 6 study session. - The council will hold public hearings on the budget and property tax on November 6 and November 19, with final adoption scheduled for December 10, 2024. - The council took no final action on credit card fees or the Arete project; these will be discussed further. - The council recessed into executive session at 8:48 p.m. to discuss potential litigation and reconvened at 9:09 p.m. to adjourn.

The Kirkland Planning Commission held a study session on October 24, 2024, starting at 6:01 PM (the agenda listed a 7:00 PM start, but the meeting was called to order early). The commission reviewed two major projects: the Houghton Village Development Plan and the Houghton Park & Ride Zoning Code Amendments, including a proposal from the Kraken Iceplex. Public comments were heard on a bridge permit, parking alternatives, and meeting start time. Minutes from four prior meetings were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Suzette Haile (Vice President, Springbrook Square HOA) expressed concern about the closure of a bridge (Permit SAR24-00488) since 2020 due to a tilt. She described safety impacts for residents, including lack of safe exit for five townhomes, difficulty accessing bus stops, and social benefits of reopening the bridge. Staff offered to follow up on the permit status. - Luetta Hawkinson (Kirkland resident) suggested that instead of providing extensive parking for the Houghton Village Development, the city should offer a van service running from the development to the Kirkland Transit Center from 6 AM to 10 PM, noting it would be cheaper than parking. - Ken MacKenzie (Kirkland resident) requested the Planning Commission return to a 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM start time for meetings. Discussion Items Houghton Village Development Plan Update - Deputy Planning and Building Director Allison Zike presented the project background, community engagement (focus groups, tabling events, PTSA input), and three design options (A, B, C). Council has coalesced around Option B, which features two buildings, a central paseo, and a new street connection. All options include 1 story of commercial/community/retail on ground floor, 4 stories of residential above (up to 5 stories total), public open space, and underground parking. Residential units range from 140–160. - A market analysis based on Option B was reviewed. Key findings: parking requirements significantly affect feasibility; reduced parking (similar to station area plan ratios) improves feasibility; splitting affordable and market-rate buildings could open funding sources like low-income housing tax credits; a cooperative ownership model may be feasible. A minor zoning code amendment to clarify height allowances is expected early 2025. - Commissioners discussed parking costs, housing unit sizes, demand for vehicles, cooperative ownership, and potential policy interventions (e.g., reducing parking requirements). Chair Rutherford suggested creative options like flexible ground-floor uses or shared parking under streets. Staff noted ongoing traffic analysis and conversations with neighboring property owners about street connections. Houghton Park & Ride Zoning Code Amendments Briefing - Allison Zike provided context: the site was purchased in 2023, land use designation changed to transit-oriented development in December 2023. The site remains zoned RS-8.5 (single-family). Staff are considering a park zone for the property, which could accommodate the proposed Kraken Iceplex and a 12,000 sq ft community recreation center funded by the Kraken's lease. - Deputy City Manager Jim Lopez described the Kraken proposal: a two-story, two-sheet ice facility (similar to Northgate) with a negotiated framework approved by council. The city would use bonding capacity to finance the project, with the Kraken's lease revenue paying the debt service. Negotiations are ongoing, with a 40-year lease term sought. Key negotiating points include local benefits (discounts, philanthropy, restaurant, civic event space) and economic development from tournaments. - Commissioners asked about zoning options (e.g., civic mixed-use from station area plan), mitigation for neighboring properties, lease term security, and local rate guarantees. Staff noted that future rezoning would require a public hearing and commission recommendation, likely early 2025. Administrative Reports & Planning Commission Discussion - Calendar Update: Next meeting is November 14, 2024 (only meeting in November; November 28 canceled for Thanksgiving). December 12 may be canceled. The November 14 meeting will focus on a briefing on middle housing (HB 1110) implementation, including compliance vs. optimization. - Comprehensive Plan: Council study session on November 19, 2024; adoption scheduled for December 10, 2024. Staff are working on amendments requested by council, including a short vision statement and standardized language in housing and land use elements. A dinner to thank the commission for comprehensive plan work is being arranged. - State Mandates: Staff reported on progress for HB 5290 (permit reporting) and HB 1293 (design review reform), both due mid-2025. A permit dashboard is being developed to track review cycles and timelines. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes: Motion to approve the July 11, July 25, August 8, and August 22, 2024 meeting minutes carried 7-0 (Rutherford, Heiser, Jacobson, Madeya, Reusser, Robbins, Rozmyn). - Next Steps: Houghton Village – council update on November 19, 2024; draft development plan for council decision early 2025; zoning code amendment public hearing early 2025. Houghton Park & Ride – continued negotiations with Kraken; staff to draft zoning proposal; commission public hearing and recommendation early 2025. - Meeting Adjourned at 7:13 PM.