Public Meetings - Kirkland, Washington

The Kirkland City Council held a study session beginning at 5:30 p.m. and the regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. on September 6, 2022. The meeting included three proclamations, a public hearing, presentations on the city's biennial survey and progress on Resolution R-5434, and several business items. The council approved a planned action ordinance for the Google campus, an agreement with WSDOT for the I-405 improvement project, and a consent calendar with numerous routine items. Key discussions focused on the solid waste reserve policy, capital facility charges, the surface water master plan, and the two-year review of the city's equity work. Proclamations - National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15–Oct. 15, 2022): Proclamation read by Councilmember Nixon, accepted by Gabriela Lopez Vazquez (Human Services Commissioner and King County Promotores Network member), Debbie Lacy (Eastside For All), Mercedes Cordova-Hakim (King County Promotores Network), and Antoinette Smith (City of Kirkland). - National Recovery Month (September 2022): Proclamation read by Councilmember Pascal, accepted by Barbie Collins Young (Executive Director, NAMI Eastside). - Eastside Welcoming Week (Sept. 9–18, 2022): Proclamation read by Councilmember Falcone, accepted by Debbie Lacy (Eastside For All). Public Comments & Testimony - Items from the Audience (during regular meeting): - Katherine Freire argued that the city violated the law and the firefighters' rights when terminating unvaccinated firefighters, citing the Washington Constitution and common law. - Daniel Webster (Washington Civil Rights Council) stated the city has not met its burden of proof under the ADA for individual assessments of firefighters and asked for an accounting of extra expenses. - Alex Tsimmerman criticized the Democratic party and the 2020 election, expressing concerns about inflation, crime, and the direction of the country. - Public Hearing on NE 85th Street Google Campus Planned Action Ordinance: Liz Hunt spoke, expressing concerns that the mitigation measures in the development agreement are insufficient for the 1.54 million square feet project, particularly regarding the mobility grid and noise from I-405. She noted the short public review period over the holiday weekend. Discussion Items - Proposed 2023-2024 Solid Waste Reserve Policy Options: Utility Policy Supervisor John MacGillivray presented three options to address a projected fund balance of $1.2 million instead of the policy target of $2.3 million. Staff recommended Option A (maintaining the lower balance) with future replenishment. Council directed staff to build the solid waste rate around that recommendation. - Capital Facility Charge (CFC) Policy: Consultant Chris Gonzalez from FCS Group presented a recommended methodology change to include replacement projects in the cost basis, which would increase CFCs for water, sewer, and surface water. The updated existing method would result in combined charges of $11,200 per residential equivalent, while the recommended method would be $15,700. Council discussed phasing, affordable housing incentives, financing options (e.g., Bellevue's 10-year surcharge), and equity concerns with North Shore Utility District serving northern Kirkland. Staff will bring back more information on financing and cross-city comparisons. - Draft 2023 Surface Water Master Plan Update: Surface Water Program Supervisor Kelli Jones and Planner Rachel Konrady presented three levels of service (minimum, moderate, enhanced) with corresponding rate increases. Increased capital funding options of $500,000 or $1 million annually were discussed. Council noted the need to see all rate impacts together and asked about water quality issues related to beach closures and invasive vegetation. Public comment is open until Sept. 30, 2022. - Resolution R-5434 Two-Year Review: Deputy City Manager James Lopez presented a comprehensive update on the city's progress implementing the equity resolution adopted in August 2020. Accomplishments included dashboards, police accountability measures (body camera pilot on track for Jan. 2023, community responder program), community court, equity contracting, and over $7.5 million in funding. Council expressed support for transitioning regular updates to the DEIB five-year roadmap. Councilmember Falcone requested ongoing transparency for items marked as complete. - Kirkland Community Biennial Survey Results: Brian Vines of EMC Research presented 2022 survey results. Key findings: 80% of residents rate Kirkland as an excellent/very good place to live (consistent with past years). Top concerns: overdevelopment, housing affordability, homelessness, and general affordability. The city's overall job rating declined slightly. Improvement priorities include managing traffic flow, city planning, affordable housing, and maintaining streets. Council discussed improving communication and engagement, noting the need for more accessible information and community connection. Key Outcomes - Approved Ordinance O-4809: Establishing planned actions for the Google campus on NE 85th Street, adopting the development agreement's mitigation measures. Motion carried 7-0 (Arnold, Black, Curtis, Falcone, Nixon, Pascal, Sweet). - Approved Resolution R-5554: Authorizing the city manager to execute a design-build cooperative agreement with WSDOT for the I-405 Brickyard to SR 527 improvement project. Motion carried 7-0. - Consent Calendar Approved: Included approval of minutes, audit of accounts ($8,351,512.19 payroll, $11,054,934.63 bills), acceptance of several resignations and appointments, and acknowledgment of numerous reports. Motion carried 7-0. - Council Direction on Solid Waste Reserve: Staff to build the 2023-2024 solid waste rate around the lower reserve option (Option A). - Council Direction on Capital Facility Charges: Staff to bring back additional information on financing options, cross-city comparisons, and potential links to affordable housing. - Council Direction on Surface Water Master Plan: Staff to incorporate feedback and present rate proposals in September 20, 2022 meeting; adoption target end of 2022. - Council Agreement to Transition R-5434 Updates: Future updates will be integrated into the DEIB five-year roadmap, with a report due no later than September 2023. Reports - City Council members shared updates on regional meetings, events (Dennyfest, Eastrail Celebration, Redmond Pride, City Hall for All on Sept. 17), and upcoming committee work. - City Manager Kurt Triplett reported that the city's legislative lobbying contract with Waypoint Consulting will not be extended; a new RFP will be issued by the end of September. He also previewed a potential phased initiative to transition to electric leaf blowers, possibly using ARPA funds, to be included in the budget transmittal. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 10:14 p.m.

The Kirkland Planning Commission met on August 25, 2022, at 7:16 PM in the Council Chamber, adjourning at 9:35 PM. The meeting included a study session on Missing Middle Housing implementation, a public hearing on Houghton Community Council sunsetting amendments, and administrative reports. Commissioners voted to approve zoning code amendments for the Houghton area and to pursue hybrid meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - Margaret Bull, a Kirkland resident, expressed concern that as the city supports increased density, the school district may not have plans for new schools, leading to longer bus rides for students. She urged the Commission to consider demographic data and school capacity. - Greg Young, a Houghton resident, asked about the specific problems being addressed by the Houghton amendments and the next steps in the process. - John Kappler, a former Houghton Community Council member, provided detailed testimony defending the regulatory differences, arguing that there has been no study of their effectiveness and that they reflect neighborhood character. He opposed the removal of certain standards, including floor area ratio (FAR), critical area regulations, and affordable housing mandates. Discussion Items Missing Middle Housing Implementation Status Senior Planner Scott Guter presented an update on missing middle housing (MMH) code amendments adopted in 2020. He highlighted an uptick in permits for duplexes, triplexes, cottages, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) since adoption. He introduced the city's new housing dashboard, which shows trends by neighborhood. Discussion included the slower pace of MMH development in the former Houghton area (only one cottage project, under appeal) versus the rest of the city. Commissioners raised questions about permit costs, the pre-approved ADU program (launching next month), and challenges such as fire separation requirements and driveway standards. Several commissioners expressed a desire to survey applicants who abandoned the permit process to identify barriers. Staff agreed to bring another update in six months. Houghton Community Council Sunsetting Amendments (File No. CAM22-00322) Planning Supervisor Nick Cilluffo presented the proposed zoning code amendments to remove references to the defunct Houghton Community Council and synchronize regulations citywide as required by state law (HB 1769). The amendments cover procedural changes and regulatory differences including floor area ratio, garage design, tree regulations, affordable housing, and missing middle housing. Staff recommended a delayed effective date of January 1, 2023, to allow projects to vest. Commissioners debated whether the Planning Commission had meaningful input since the City Council had already expressed desire for consistency. Public testimony from John Kappler argued that the differences were based on neighborhood character and that no study justified the changes. Commissioner Tymczyszyn recused himself as a Houghton resident. After deliberation, the Commission voted on the amendments. Administrative Reports & Commission Discussion Deputy Director Allison Zike reported that the City Council passed a tenant protections ordinance on August 3, effective September 17, requiring notice for rent increases and capping security deposits. She advised that the Chair and Vice Chair would discuss communication with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor regarding the Station Area Plan (Phase 2) at their quarterly meeting. Commissioners expressed frustration about lack of information and perceived bypassing during Phase 1. They agreed to have the Chair and Vice Chair raise these concerns prior to Phase 2. In-Person/Hybrid Meetings Commissioners discussed returning to hybrid meetings, noting that virtual-only formats have reduced public attendance and engagement. They emphasized the importance of allowing remote participation for accessibility while resuming in-person hearings, especially for the upcoming Station Area Plan. A motion was made to direct staff to begin hybrid meetings immediately, provide a status update at every meeting, and communicate this to the City Council and City Manager. The motion passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission voted 5-0 (with Commissioner Tymczyszyn recused) to approve the Houghton Community Council sunsetting zoning code amendments as presented by staff, with a delayed effective date of January 1, 2023. - The Commission voted 6-0 to direct staff to immediately initiate hybrid (in-person and virtual) meetings, with updates at each meeting, and to communicate this request to the City Council and City Manager. - The Chair and Vice Chair were authorized to discuss communication concerns with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor prior to Phase 2 of the Station Area Plan, and a broader discussion on the planning work program will occur in the first quarter of 2023.

The Kirkland City Council convened a hybrid special meeting on Wednesday, August 3, 2022, beginning with a 5:30 p.m. study session and transitioning to a regular meeting at approximately 7:30 p.m. All seven council members were present, and the meeting adjourned at 12:00 a.m. after an executive session on litigation. Major actions included adoption of a tenant protection ordinance (without late fee caps), approval of the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan draft amendments, creation of a Parks Funding Exploratory Committee, and direction to study a seasonal or full closure of Park Lane. Study Session - 2023-2024 Preliminary Utility Rates Discussion: Utility staff and the Cascade Water Alliance (CWA) presented preliminary rate proposals for solid waste, water, sewer, and surface water. CWA proposed a 2.2% annual increase in member charges, though Kirkland’s increase was higher (8.25% for 2023, 2.2% for 2024). Staff highlighted challenges including inflation, capital needs, and a reduced solid waste cash reserve. Councilmembers discussed the reserve and requested future comparisons with Northshore Utility District. - Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for NE 85th Street Station Area: Consultant Bob Stowe presented a strategy to use tax increment financing to fund three infrastructure projects: a sewer main ($16 million), Forbes Lake Park ($12 million), and 124th Avenue NE roadway widening ($30 million). The proposed tax increment area has an assessed valuation of $127 million, below the $200 million cap. Council provided feedback and asked for more detailed risk and sequencing analysis in the next phase. Public Comments & Testimony - Several downtown business owners, including Tina Oiness and Taylor Oiness, opposed full-time closure of Park Lane, citing financial loss, loss of parking and accessibility, and noting that every responding business on the 100 block opposed full-time closure. - Amy Kangas, on behalf of the Housing Justice Project, read a renter’s letter describing racial barriers and a $400 rent increase forcing a move out of Kirkland. - Angela Rozmyn supported full Park Lane closure as a pedestrian-friendly future but emphasized the need for more housing supply. - Sam Rapoport, a renter, advocated for stronger tenant protections, including longer notices and enforcement. - Susan Peterson and Katherine Freire spoke critically of the city’s handling of unvaccinated firefighters, urging reinstatement and accountability. - Jennie Jaeger (Livable Kirkland) and Per Ola Selander supported option two (further study) for Park Lane. - Patricia Bowen (Eastside Legal Assistance Program) urged immediate adoption of the full ARCH tenant protection recommendations, describing severe client hardship. - Greg Cerbana (Weidner Apartment Homes) and Tessa McFarland (Prometheus Real Estate Group) opposed the tenant protection ordinance, arguing it would reduce rental housing supply. - Maria Harwell supported King County’s permanent supportive housing at La Quinta and criticized Eastside Preparatory School’s concerns. - Allison Blair presented the 2022 Matthew Dahl Kirkland Youth Council Memorial Scholarship to Josh Slate. - Michelle Lustgarten, chair of the Park Lane Outdoor Sculpture Gallery, presented the 2022-2023 artist slate. - Doug Ruff spoke about long COVID risks and promoted the Juanita Public Pathway project. Special Presentations - Eastside Preparatory School Health Through Housing Response: Deputy City Manager James Lopez recommended that Council authorize the City Manager to send a response to Eastside Prep affirming shared interest in a legally binding agreement with King County for permanent supportive housing. Council agreed and directed staff to proceed. - COVID-19 Update: No update was provided. - Resolution R-5434 Update: No update was provided; a two-year anniversary presentation is planned for September. Consent Calendar - Approved by a 7-0 vote (motion by Councilmember Curtis, second by Councilmember Black). - Included approval of June 28 and July 19, 2022 meeting minutes; payroll of $5,344,862.61 and bills of $2,578,106.80 (plus other listed checks); award of the 2022 Annual Striping Program contract to Specialized Pavement Marking, Inc. for $76,708.75 with $107,645.00 in additional REET funding; acceptance of NE 120th Street Water Quality Treatment and 122nd Avenue NE Traffic Calming projects; Resolution R-5553 (2021 Proposition 1 Levy Accountability Report); one-time funding of $150,000 over three years for the Kirkland Parks and Community Foundation Executive Director; Cultural Arts Commission Park Lane Outdoor Gallery recommendations; Resolution R-5552 (2021 Parks and Community Services Annual Levy Report); Ordinance O-4808 (development fee rate schedules); June 2022 Sales Tax Report; and procurement report. Business: Tenant Protection Policies Update - Council considered Ordinance O-4810, implementing ARCH recommendations with modifications. - Amendments: - Added requirement that rent increase notices include the actual dollar amount (7-0). - Added Section 7.75.055 allowing waivers of move-in fee/deposit limits only with written approval by tenant’s attorney (4-3). - An amendment to revise late fees to 4% on outstanding balance failed (3-4), and a follow-up to waive late fees if paid within 90 days failed (2-5). - An amendment to strike Section 7.75.050 (late fee limits) entirely passed (4-3). - Final Vote: Ordinance O-4810, as amended, was approved 4-3. Those voting yes: Deputy Mayor Arnold, Councilmembers Black, Curtis, and Falcone. Those voting no: Councilmembers Nixon, Pascal, and Mayor Sweet. The ordinance includes rent increase notice requirements (120 days for 3% increases, 180 days for 10%) and caps on move-in fees/deposits at one month’s rent, but no late fee cap. Business: Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan – Final Draft - Staff presented the final draft incorporating prior feedback. Council approved two amendments: adding Objective 1.8.f to identify actions to reduce beach closures due to bacteria and poor water quality (7-0), and inserting “city-wide” into that objective (7-0). The plan will proceed to professional design and formatting for future adoption. Business: Parks Funding Exploratory Committee Formation - Council unanimously approved Resolution R-5551 establishing the Parks Funding Exploratory Committee to recommend capital/operating elements and funding structures for the November 2023 ballot. The committee will use a hybrid membership approach with specific organizations and an open application process. Councilmember Curtis noted an addition of “seniors” to the attachments. Business: Future of Park Lane Discussion - Council considered two options: 1) keep Park Lane open to vehicles, or 2) commission a consultant to evaluate seasonal or full closure. After discussion, Council voted 6-1 (Councilmember Nixon dissenting) to adopt option two, authorizing a study to evaluate closure scenarios and return with data and recommendations in early 2023. Reports - Councilmembers provided regional and committee updates, including a King County Growth Management Planning Council meeting, ARCH stakeholder focus group, upcoming Sound Cities Association nominations, permanent supportive housing tours, Little League Junior Softball World Series, National Night Out, and a Together Center tour. - City Manager Kurt Triplett reported that two Community Responder positions are now active, with the remaining two expected by September 1, and a fourth position being reposted. Executive Session - Council entered executive session to discuss litigation, with staff and legal counsel present. The meeting was adjourned at 12:00 a.m. following the session.

The Kirkland Planning Commission met on July 28, 2022, at 7:00 PM in a hybrid format. The primary agenda items included a study session on the Houghton Community Municipal Corporation & Houghton Community Council Sunsetting Code Amendments (File No. CAM22-00322), the election of officers, approval of minutes, and administrative updates. Commissioners also expressed significant frustration regarding the City Council's handling of the station area plan and the Google development agreement, calling for improved communication and a joint meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from February 24, 2022, and April 28, 2022, with a 7-0 vote. (Moved by Sandeep Singhal, seconded by Chair Angela Rozmyn) Public Comments & Testimony - John Kappler (Kirkland resident, former Houghton Community Council member) spoke during the public comment period. He recommended extra advertising to ensure a robust public hearing on the Houghton amendments, suggested evaluating the impact of existing zoning regulations on neighborhoods, and requested that a representative of the former Houghton Community Council be allowed to present at the public hearing. The Commission granted him additional time to speak. Discussion Items - Houghton Community Municipal Corporation & Community Council Sunsetting Code Amendments (File No. CAM22-00322): Senior Planner Nick Cilluffo presented the background. State House Bill 1769 (effective July 9, 2022) sunsetted community municipal corporations. The city had already adopted Ordinance 4798 ending the Houghton Community Council. The current phase addresses two buckets: (1) procedural amendments removing references to the HCC's involvement in land use processes, and (2) regulatory amendments eliminating discrepancies between the former Houghton jurisdiction and the rest of the city. Staff recommended a delayed effective date for regulatory changes to protect projects in progress. Commissioners discussed various regulatory differences, including floor area ratio (FAR), tree regulations, oversized vehicle parking, and missing middle housing. Many favored unification unless clear evidence supported Houghton's different rules. The Commission reached consensus to invite a representative of the former HCC to present at the public hearing (scheduled for August 25, 2022) and to enhance outreach to neighborhood chairs and the Master Builders Association. Commissioners also requested clarity on the vesting date for building permits and on the enforcement transition for boat/RV parking. - Election of Officers: Chair Angela Rozmyn was nominated by Katya Allen (seconded by Sandeep Singhal) and re-elected 7-0. Vice Chair Scott Reusser was nominated by John Tymczyszyn (seconded by Sandeep Singhal) and re-elected 7-0. During the election discussion, several commissioners voiced strong frustration that the Planning Commission's recommendations on the station area plan and the Google/Lee Johnson development agreement were disregarded by the City Council. They felt their time was wasted and that decisions were made without meaningful input. Commissioners called for a joint meeting with the City Council to discuss communication and the planning commission's role. - Administrative Reports and Calendar Update: Deputy Director Allison Zike reported that the City Council held a public hearing on the Lee Johnson/Google development agreement on July 11 and adopted it on July 19. The August 11 meeting is canceled. The August 25 meeting will include the public hearing for the Houghton amendments, an update on missing middle housing implementation, and a preview of the housing dashboard. Key Outcomes - Elections: Angela Rozmyn re-elected Chair (7-0) and Scott Reusser re-elected Vice Chair (7-0) for the coming year. - Approvals: Minutes of February 24 and April 28, 2022, approved (7-0). - Next Steps for Houghton Amendments: Public hearing scheduled for August 25, 2022. Staff will arrange for a former HCC representative to present and will conduct enhanced outreach (including to neighborhood associations and the Master Builders Association). The public hearing and subsequent city council action are anticipated on September 20, 2022. - Meeting Calendar: August 11 meeting canceled. August 25 meeting will include the Houghton public hearing and updates on missing middle housing and the housing dashboard. - Future Engagement: Staff will work to schedule a joint study session with the City Council to address communication concerns and ensure the Planning Commission's role is respected.

The Kirkland City Council held a regular meeting on July 19, 2022, preceded by a study session on transportation and capital improvement planning. The council took action on a development agreement with Google, adopted a resolution on reproductive healthcare and marriage equality, and discussed parks funding, revenue equity, and fire staffing. The regular meeting convened at 7:30 p.m. and adjourned at 11:04 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from July 5, July 6, and July 11, 2022. - Acknowledged audit of accounts: payroll $3,791,355.03 and bills $2,711,250.07. - Acknowledged a claim for damages from HAL 1 LLC. - Acknowledged the 2021 Annual Code Enforcement Report, May 2022 Financial Dashboard Report, and Procurement Report. - Motion carried 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Abigail DeWeese (representing Google) expressed support for the Google Development Agreement, noting public benefits and explaining that rooftop public access is not provided due to security concerns based on past incidents. - Beverly Marcus urged adoption of Resolution R-5550 supporting reproductive healthcare and marriage equality, stating she is horrified by the overturning of Roe v. Wade and sees Washington State as a firewall. - Catherine Frere raised concerns about firefighter staffing, citing excessive overtime (one captain worked 260 hours in 14 days) and a brownout risk, accusing the city of inaction. - Sharon Cox commented on tree retention at the Google site, inquiring whether the tree code protects periphery trees; she assumed trees on the south end and other sides would remain. - Guillermo Rivera (Insight for All) spoke in favor of tenant protections recommended by ARCH, stating they would allow families to continue living in Kirkland and benefit everyone. - Marv Heston objected to Resolution R-5550, arguing the council did not run on these issues nor conduct a public survey, and thus is overstepping its bounds. Study Session - 2022-2023 Transportation Commission Proposed Work Plan: Transportation Manager Joel Pfundt, Commission Chair Kurt Ahrensfeld, and Vice Chair Faith DeBolt presented the plan. Key new items include a Transportation Master Plan update, corridor studies for 120th Avenue NE, 85th Street, and 87th Avenue, a Lake Washington Boulevard study, speed limit setting policy update, and data collection/performance measurement. Councilmember Pascal emphasized safety and reducing vehicle speeds. Council provided feedback; a final plan will return for adoption. - 2023-2028 Preliminary Capital Improvement Program (CIP): Financial Planning Manager George Dugdale and Kevin Lowe Pelstring presented. The funded program increased by $61 million for transportation, including $16.8 million in developer-delivered projects. A new equity mapping tool was introduced. REAT forecasts increased to $11 million/year. Parks projects saw no new funded projects; restroom renovations at Everest and Houghton Beach were prioritized, delaying ADA upgrades and off-leash dog areas. Council discussed neighborhood safety program funding, park priorities, and staff capacity. Updates on major projects: 100th Avenue design and right-of-way acquisition underway, 124th Avenue advertising for bids later in 2022, and One EDA Drive design continuing. Special Presentations - Fire Department Staffing Update: Chief Joe Sanford presented current staffing and proposed temporary change: from August 2022 to May 2023, discontinue the voluntary 12-hour dedicated aid car at Station 22 and instead reassign personnel from Station 27 to staff it during daytime, returning at night. Goal is to reduce overtime and manage vacancies. Council expressed support for the operational decision and requested continued tracking via the fire dashboard. - COVID-19 Update: City Manager Kurt Triplett reported rising BA.5 variant cases and encouraged masking and vaccinations. Consideration of possibly remote August meeting depending on health guidance. - Resolution R-5434 Update: No update provided. Business - Google Development Agreement (Ordinance O-4807): Deputy City Manager Tracey Dunlap reviewed amendments: sustainability features (all-electric, no natural gas, 100% carbon-free energy by 2030), a repayment plan for the community benefit incentive payment in case phases 4/5 do not proceed, collaboration with Lake Washington School District, transportation concurrency split (1,534 trips initially, additional 700 after project completion), and third-party parking utilization analysis. Planning Director Adam Weinstein clarified tree code application: not all periphery trees will be retained, but landmark trees receive protection, and the project will likely increase tree canopy. Council discussion; motion by Deputy Mayor Arnold. Vote: 7-0 to approve. - Revenue Equity Study Final Report: Sarah Emmans of ECONorthwest presented final recommendations: increase the business license fee (RGRL) by $25 per FTE, raise the exemption from $12,000 to $20,000, maximize use of REET for maintenance, and implement paid parking downtown (gross annual revenue potential up to $6.4 million). Council supported including options in the budget process with community outreach. Staff will bring proposals to the September 20 revenue public hearing. - Establishing a Parks Funding Exploratory Committee (PFEC): Management Analyst Hillary De La Cruz presented plans for a 40-member committee to meet 10 times from September 2022 to February 2023 and recommend ballot measure components and funding mechanisms. Council feedback included: define diversity broadly, include youth, renters, and disability community, balance expertise with inclusiveness, include skeptics and political diversity, and ensure robust discussion on funding. Resolution to be finalized at the August 3 council meeting. - Reproductive Healthcare and Marriage Equality (Resolution R-5550): Councilmember Falcone introduced the resolution, which was updated to include support for Washington State legislative action. Councilmember Nixon moved to table; motion failed for lack of a second. After debate, motion to adopt passed 6-1 (Nixon dissenting). Councilmember Nixon argued the resolution is divisive and not city business; others emphasized supporting civil liberties and sending a message. Reports - City Council Reports: Deputy Mayor Arnold reported on Eastrail Regional Advisory Council (discussed art, a celebration conference, and a potential $25,000-$50,000 budget ask). Councilmember Falcone highlighted the successful outdoor summer movie series and the Guns for Gift Cards event on July 20. Councilmember Curtis reported on the legislative work group (permanent supportive housing briefings, firefighter vaccine mandate, AWC housing policy group) and an ARCH elected official focus group on dedicated affordable housing revenue. Councilmember Black shared highlights from the Chamber DEI Symposium on barriers to re-entry for formerly incarcerated individuals. Councilmember Pascal had no additional reports. - City Manager Reports: Calendar update; no other items. Key Outcomes - Ordinance O-4807 (Google Development Agreement) approved 7-0. - Resolution R-5550 (Reproductive Healthcare and Marriage Equality) adopted 6-1. - Parks Funding Exploratory Committee direction provided; final resolution to return August 3. - Revenue Equity Study next steps: staff to bring RGRL options to September 20 public hearing and begin outreach to business community. - Fire Staffing operational change approved: discontinue voluntary 12-hour aid car for 10 months. - Juanita Heights Park/Goat Hill policy motion adopted 7-0: Council will not support dedicating park property for a roadway to enable a development that requires such a road. - Motion to table Resolution R-5550 failed for lack of a second. - Executive session held for litigation, personnel, and collective bargaining; meeting adjourned at 11:04 p.m.

The Kirkland City Council held a special meeting on July 11, 2022, at 6:00 PM, primarily as a public hearing to receive comments on a proposed development agreement with Google related to the NE 85th Street Station Area Plan. The meeting included a staff presentation, testimony from Google and Lake Washington School District, public comments from residents, and council discussion. The council is scheduled to consider an ordinance authorizing the agreement at its regular meeting on July 19, 2022. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian Buck (Executive Director of Support Services, Lake Washington School District): Expressed support for collaboration with Google but requested that the development agreement include a requirement or reference regarding partnership with the school district to address student enrollment growth. Noted that 1.5 million square feet of office space is equivalent to 18 elementary schools. - Sharon Cox (20-year resident, Moss Bay): Voiced strong opposition to the agreement, arguing it violates the city's recently adopted tree code (requiring 40% tree canopy) and the Washington State Appearance of Fairness Doctrine. Criticized the council for granting too many exceptions to Google (e.g., 250-foot height, reduced landscape buffers) and questioned the $12.5 million affordable housing payment as insufficient. - Colleen Clement (Resident, People for Climate Action, ETAG): Expressed general support for the agreement but urged that buildings be 100% electric, noting the current language says "endeavor to" rather than "fully commit to." - Sue Amorosi (33-year resident): Supported the project but requested that open space designs be reviewed by the council to ensure high quality, and that bike and pedestrian paths be separated for safety. - Laurie Hanson (50-year resident): Opposed the agreement, citing traffic and parking concerns, lack of transparency about employee projections, inadequate public notice for Google's open house, and absence of public rooftop parks. Requested a broader traffic study and independent monitoring. - Daniel Weise (25-year resident, Silver Spruce): Expressed strong support for the project, praising high-density development near transit and the benefits for the city. - Curtis Brown (Resident, near 118th Street): Opposed the agreement, criticizing the $12.5 million payment as a "marketing bribe" (0.6% of 7,000 employees' salaries), weak enforcement of parking and traffic mitigations, and lack of residential parking permits. Also noted insufficient landscape buffers for neighboring homes. - Liz Hunt (Resident, 8th Street West): Expressed cautious support but raised concerns about the scale (1.54 million sq ft, comparable to Lincoln Square), accuracy of incentive zoning calculations, and the need for honest communication about whether stated benefits are truly community gains or merely required mitigations. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Adam Weinstein, Planning Director; Tracey Dunlap, Deputy City Manager; Joel Pfundt, Transportation Manager; John Burkhalter, Development Engineering Manager): Provided an overview of the development agreement, highlighting its 36 sections and 8 exhibits covering 5 phases. Key points included: - Google will exceed code-required community benefits (open space, pedestrian/bike connections, $12.5 million affordable housing payment). - Sustainability measures exceed code, with mass timber construction (max 180 feet) and a goal of all-electric buildings (with an exception for commercial cooking). - Transportation improvements include new bike/ped paths, intersection upgrades, and a transit hub. Parking will be built at 2 spaces per 1,000 sq ft initially, with potential reduction to 1 space per 1,000 sq ft for later phases with enhanced TDM. - The agreement term is 10 years, extendable to 15 years upon first building permit and payment of the community benefit fee. - Google will receive impact fee credits for building system improvements beyond project mitigation. - Councilmember Pascal: Questioned the mode share monitoring, concurrency vesting for all phases (arguing it should be per phase), and the enforcement of parking mitigation. Suggested using an independent consultant for monitoring and converting the agreement from a resolution to an ordinance for stronger legal effect. - Councilmember Falcone: Supported adding a reference to collaboration with Lake Washington School District. Asked for clarification on water infrastructure impacts (no capacity issues for future development) and tree code applicability (confirmed that the updated tree code applies, but no parcel-by-parcel 40% canopy requirement). Also raised the building electrification language, with staff clarifying that base code requires all-electric buildings except commercial cooking. - Councilmember Curtis: Supported including school district collaboration. Expressed support for green roofs and publicly accessible rooftop park space. Asked about the fate of the property and affordable housing refund if Google does not proceed with phases 4 and 5 (city attorney confirmed that assignment would pass responsibilities to a new owner, and the 40% refund would be addressed in the assignment agreement). - City Attorney Kevin: Addressed concerns about the Appearance of Fairness Doctrine, stating it does not apply to legislative proceedings like this. Noted that a planning commission member who is a Google employee voluntarily recused himself, though not required. Also clarified that an ordinance (rather than resolution) would be used for the agreement. Key Outcomes - The council will consider an ordinance authorizing the execution of the development agreement at its regular meeting on July 19, 2022. - Councilmembers expressed intent to incorporate the following changes into the final agreement: - Add a reference to collaboration with Lake Washington School District. - Strengthen language on building electrification from "endeavor to" to a firm commitment to 100% electric buildings (except commercial cooking). - Consider including mode share monitoring and independent review of parking and traffic data. - Address concurrency vesting for later phases to ensure system capacity is reserved only as infrastructure is built. - Clarify enforcement mechanisms for off-site parking mitigation and residential parking passes. - No vote was taken; the public hearing was closed at 8:01 PM.

The Kirkland City Council held a special meeting on July 6, 2022, in a hybrid format (Zoom/City Hall) to conduct a study session on a proposed development agreement between the City and Google, LLC for a new Google campus project in the Northeast 85th Street Station Area. The meeting included presentations from city staff and Google representatives, followed by council discussion. No public testimony was taken; a public hearing is scheduled for July 11, 2022. Councilmember Pascal was excused. Public Comments & Testimony - There was no public testimony or comment at this study session. The Mayor noted that a public hearing on the development agreement will occur on Monday, July 11, 2022, at 6:00 p.m., and that a recording of this study session will be included as part of the record for that hearing. Discussion Items Google Presentation (Ian Goodhue, Mark Rowe, Abby DeWitt) - Ian Goodhue (Head of Gov't & External Relations, Google) presented Google's site concept for a new campus on the Lee Johnson site at NE 85th Street. Key points: - Google has been in Kirkland since 2004 and wants to grow in Kirkland. The new campus would provide 6,000 new seats plus 1,000 supporting employees. - The project would be built in phases: initial two office buildings by 2027, two more by 2032. - The campus is designed to be one of the greenest Google campuses globally, targeting net-positive carbon, positive energy, positive water, and complete circularity. - Buildings would be constructed with mass timber (capped at 180 feet), but the development agreement allows up to 250 feet as a development envelope—though Google stated it does not intend to build occupied space to that height. - Community benefits include open public spaces (Cascades connection, North Pass, a west trail, and a southern prairie), pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and a $12.46 million community benefit incentive payment for affordable housing. - Transportation goals: reduce single-occupancy vehicle commute mode share to 15% (from current 54% at Kirkland campuses), promote transit (bus rapid transit station adjacent), bike/ped, and a fully electric G-bus fleet. Parking would be underground, and a mobility hub would be inside the campus. - Google is in discussions with WSDOT to activate land between the trail and I-405. Staff Presentation (City Attorney Kevin Raymond, Deputy City Manager Tracy Dunlap, Planning Director Adam Weinstein, Transportation Manager Joel Fonden, Development Engineering Manager John Burkhaltar) - Kevin Raymond outlined the development agreement (DA) background, noting the process began in 2018 with the station area plan. The DA provides certainty for Google and Lee Johnson to complete their transactions and ensures infrastructure and community benefits. - Adam Weinstein explained entitlements: design review process retained but key site plan elements (building configuration) fixed; environmental review under station area plan EIS with planned action ordinance to avoid supplemental SEPA. - Tracy Dunlap presented community benefits: open spaces, mid-block connections, and incentive payment. The amenities meet or exceed the incentive zoning requirements for the planned 180-foot mass timber building and even the 250-foot form-based code maximum. - Joel Fonden covered parking and transportation: parking built to code (2 spaces/1,000 sq ft) in phases 1-3; phases 4-5 may reduce parking with enhanced TDM. Transportation improvements include bike lanes, signal upgrades, turn lanes, and frontage improvements on 85th, 120th, and 118th. - John Burkhaltar addressed impact fees and concurrency: fees paid at time of building permit; eligible for credits for system improvements; sewer upgrades needed (SAP 6 & 7). - Key DA terms: 10-year term with possible 5-year extension; $12.46M incentive payment due before phase 1 building permit, but 40% reimbursable if phases 4-5 not built; city can approve assignment; force majeure clause; no vesting for building/energy codes (but energy code to be added after council question). Council Discussion - Councilmembers asked questions about transportation (peak hours, G-bus routes, inter-campus transit), parking, EV charging (100% spaces with EV charging, some public), building height assurances, and the incentive payment repayment risk. - Councilmember Black questioned the city's remedies in case of breach. Staff noted all legal remedies available. - Councilmember Curtis expressed excitement about the project and the community benefits. - Councilmember Falcone asked about affordability and the gondola concept for inter-campus connectivity. - Deputy Mayor Arnold inquired about micromobility and partnerships with Metro/Sound Transit to boost transit mode share. - Councilmember Nixon asked about latecomer agreements; staff clarified they would apply only to future development projects on 118th, not existing homeowners. Key Outcomes - The council took no action at this study session. The draft development agreement will be the subject of a public hearing on July 11, 2022, at 6:00 p.m., followed by potential council action at the regular meeting on July 19, 2022. - City staff identified a correction to Section 20 of the DA (term extension language) to be reflected in the final document. - Staff committed to adding energy code to the list of codes that do not vest (after Deputy Mayor Arnold's question). - The next steps are: Public hearing on July 11; possible adoption on July 19.

The Kirkland City Council held a regular meeting on July 5, 2022, starting with a study session at 5:30 p.m. and the regular meeting at 7:30 p.m., adjourning at 10:57 p.m. The meeting included a study session on the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) and the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, followed by honors, public hearings, special presentations, a consent calendar, and several business items. Key decisions included approving the consent calendar (6-0), extending the moratorium on autonomous personal delivery devices (6-0), adopting the police body-worn camera ordinance with facial recognition restrictions (6-0), adopting the DEIB 5-Year Roadmap with multiple amendments (6-0), and directing staff to bring back a fiscal note for $50,000/year for three years for the Kirkland Parks and Community Foundation (6-0). Council also discussed tenant protection policies and the SRO program, providing direction for further outreach. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (6-0) including: - Minutes of June 21, 2022 (two sets) - Audit of accounts: payroll $4,741,786.70 and bills $9,541,940.05 - Award of bids for the 2022 Street Overlay Project - Approval of a hotel voucher program with Catholic Community Services (up to $117,482) - Art concepts for Fire Station 22 (artist Shelley Beishline) and Fire Station 27 (artist Thomas Drugan) - Acceptance of a $21,000 donation for a labyrinth at 132nd Square Park (Resolution R-5549) - Ordinance O-4804 regulating busking (adopted new Chapter 11.85 of KMC) - Ordinance O-4805 amending notice of public meetings (KMC 3.10.010) - May 2022 Sales Tax Report and Procurement Report Public Comments & Testimony - Firefighters (Caleb Coke, Justin Becker, Evan Hurley, Jonathan Ishmael) – Expressed deep concern about a staffing crisis in the Kirkland Fire Department following the termination of 12 unvaccinated firefighters. Cited mandatory overtime, risk of sleep deprivation, inability to staff aid cars and a fourth engine on July 4, low morale, and loss of probationary firefighters to other departments. Urged council to reconsider the vaccine mandate or conduct a new risk analysis. - Jeanne Large – Supported expansion of the no-idling policy, requesting a public policy with signs and enforcement. - MJ Carlson – Opposed the SRO program, stating it causes harm to black students, and criticized the lack of community engagement in the proposal. - Kirsten Hansen – Asked council to consider a third option: pause the SRO program to conduct proper community engagement. - Margaret Bull – Opposed amplified music in parks, preferring a natural environment. - Jeff Cleeland (Amazon) – Supported the moratorium extension and expressed willingness to collaborate on autonomous delivery device regulations. - John Tymczyszyn (Planning Commission) – Dissented from the planning commission's recommendation, criticizing Amazon's lack of engagement with the commission and suggesting the process was undermined. Discussion Items - Transportation Benefit District (TBD) Update – Staff presented options for a $20 car tab to fund median maintenance ($300,000/year) and capital projects (active transportation, safer routes to school). Council consensus: support proceeding with the TBD as part of the 2023-24 budget, wait until December 2022 for final decision, and conduct public outreach. Councilmembers expressed interest in equity considerations (e.g., waiving fees for low-income residents) and a preference for councilmanic adoption rather than a public vote. - School Resource Officer (SRO) Program Update – Staff presented two options: (1) reduce from 6 to 4 SROs with a learning community focus, reallocating two positions to neighborhood resource and PROACT units, plus $186,000 for human services; (2) sunset the program. Council feedback: Mayor Sweet, Councilmember Curtis, Councilmember Black, Deputy Mayor Arnold, and Councilmember Nixon supported option 1 as an interim step, with the DEIB manager convening stakeholders. Councilmember Falcone strongly supported option 2 (sunset). Council directed staff to continue the program with modifications and bring back further evaluations. - Autonomous Personal Delivery Devices (APDD) – Public Hearing & Ordinance O-4806 – Extended the moratorium for six months to allow further study of regulations. Council discussed concerns about sidewalk safety, data privacy, ADA accessibility, and compensation for use of public infrastructure. Ordinance passed 6-0. - Police Body Worn Cameras (Ordinance O-4796) – Adopted ordinance restricting facial recognition technology, authorizing body-worn cameras, and establishing civilian oversight. Passed 6-0. - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) 5-Year Roadmap (Resolution R-5548) – Adopted with three amendments: (1) annual progress updates and an LRM process for updates (Councilmember Falcone), (2) inclusion of public art in DEIB objectives and training for council, boards, commissions, and community organizations (Councilmember Curtis), (3) a new objective (1.6) to study decreasing barriers to serving on council and boards (Deputy Mayor Arnold). Passed 6-0. - Development Services Fee Update – Council directed staff to proceed with a 38% cost recovery for code enforcement, a tiered pre-submittal conference fee structure (no fee for single-family, $1,000 for developer-driven without public hearing, $2,300 for complex projects), and continued work on incentivizing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) through pre-approved plans and expedited permits. - Tenant Protection Policies Update – Staff presented feedback from tenant advocates (supportive of Arch proposals) and housing providers (preferred alternatives like 90-day notice for any increase, higher late fee caps, and flexibility on move-in fees). Council direction: bring back both the Arch proposals and potential alternatives for comparison at the August 3, 2022 meeting, with further discussion on enforcement mechanisms and focusing on low-income tenants. - Kirkland Parks and Community Foundation (KPCF) Funding Discussion – Council approved a motion to bring back a fiscal note for $50,000/year for three years (first year from special projects fund, subsequent years through budget) to support the foundation's hiring of an executive director. Councilmembers expressed support for the partnership and requested minor MOU updates on equity and human services alignment. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar – Approved 6-0. - Ordinance O-4806 (APDD Moratorium) – Approved 6-0. - Ordinance O-4796 (Body Worn Cameras & Facial Recognition Ban) – Approved 6-0. - Resolution R-5548 (DEIB 5-Year Roadmap) – Adopted 6-0 with three amendments. - KPCF Funding – Council directed staff to bring back a fiscal note for $50,000/year for three years (first year at July 19 meeting) – motion carried 6-0. - Transportation Benefit District – Council supported proceeding with the $20 car tab, public outreach, and a December 2022 timeline. - School Resource Officer Program – Council directed staff to proceed with option 1 (modified program with 4 SROs, learning community focus, and DEIB engagement), with intent to evaluate further. - Tenant Protections – Council directed staff to return on August 3, 2022, with both the Arch proposals and alternative options for comparison. - Calendar Update – Council voted 5-1 to add Resolution R-5550 (supporting reproductive health care and marriage equality) to the July 19 agenda (Councilmember Nixon opposed).

The Kirkland Planning Commission met on June 23, 2022, from 7:00 PM to 8:07 PM. The primary agenda item was a public hearing on proposed zoning code amendments for Autonomous Personal Delivery Devices (APDDs) on private property. The commission also discussed City Council actions, the Station Area Plan, and future meeting schedules. Four commissioners were present, with three absent. Public Hearing: Kirkland Zoning Code Amendments for Personal Delivery Devices (File No. CAM22-00195) Senior Planner Scott Guter presented staff's proposed regulations for APDDs on private property (Option 2), following a prior moratorium and City Council direction to develop regulations for both private property (Option 2) and limited right-of-way use (Option 3). The hearing focused solely on Option 2. No public testimony was received. Discussion included: - Commissioner Tymczyszyn expressed frustration that Amazon, the likely applicant, did not provide a presentation or answer questions, and initially indicated he would recuse himself from the vote. He later voted no. - Commissioner Rutherford noted that the regulations would allow operation on private property in commercial, office, industrial, and institutional zones, but would not permit crossing onto public right-of-way or residential driveways without separate right-of-way regulations. - Vice Chair Reusser supported allowing private property operation as a testing ground, seeing limited risk compared to public right-of-way. - Chair Rozmyn made a motion to recommend Option 2 as proposed. Key Outcomes Vote on Option 2 (Allow APDDs on Private Property): - Motion by Angela Rozmyn, seconded by Scott Reusser. - Passed 3-1. - Yes: Angela Rozmyn, Scott Reusser, Rodney Rutherford. - No: John Tymczyszyn. Motion to Request Staff Update in One Year and Invite Amazon to Present: - Motion by John Tymczyszyn, seconded by Angela Rozmyn. - Passed 4-0. - Yes: All four present members. - Commissioner Tymczyszyn noted he would submit a dissenting opinion on the primary vote, to be provided by June 27–28 for inclusion in the July 5 City Council packet. Approval of Minutes - January 13, 2022 Minutes: Approved unanimously (4-0). Administrative Reports & Commission Discussion City Council Actions: - Deputy Director Jeremy McMahan reported that City Council adopted amendments to sunset the Houghton Community Council effective July 9, 2022. Zoning code amendments for Houghton will be presented to the Commission later this summer. - Deputy Mayor Jay Arnold updated on the Station Area Plan: Council will consider the plan and the Commission's Comprehensive Plan amendment recommendations at a special meeting on June 28. Google submitted a letter stating intent to use commercial mass timber, limiting building height to 180 feet. The development agreement public hearing is set for July 6. Council requested Google hold an open house for community engagement. Public Meeting Calendar Update: - The July 14 meeting will likely be canceled due to a light agenda. - Chair Rozmyn requested an update on ADU and Missing Middle Housing implementation; staff will provide a report in August. - Commissioner Tymczyszyn inquired about resuming in-person meetings. Mr. McMahan stated hybrid technology is being developed; the Houghton Community Council's final meeting on June 27 will be a hybrid test. Comments from the Audience - None.