Public Meetings - Kirkland, Washington

The meeting convened on January 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM UTC. No agenda or minutes were available. The only provided transcript consists of incoherent utterances and contains no identifiable discussion, public testimony, or decisions. Consequently, no substantive summary can be produced. Note - The transcript is unintelligible and does not reflect any meaningful meeting content.

The Kirkland City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, beginning at 7:30 p.m. and adjourning at 12:16 a.m. on January 7. Key actions included the swearing-in of councilmembers, election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor, approval of a temporary water pressure boost for the Upper Highlands, direction on multiple school zone safety enhancements, progress on the Green Loop Implementation Plan, and approval of Seattle Police Department's entry into the Independent Force Investigation Team (IFIT-KC) with a 4–3 vote. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the December 9, 2025 Special Meeting were approved. Minutes from the December 9, 2025 Regular Meeting were deferred to the next meeting for revision. - Audit of Accounts: Payroll ($9,158,698.56) and bills ($9,858,483.84) acknowledged. - Claims for Damages: Claims from seven individuals acknowledged. - Other Items: Resolution R-5711 (relinquishing city interest in unopened right-of-way), November 2025 Investment Report, November 2025 Sales Tax Report, and Procurement Report all approved via consent calendar. Motion carried 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Paul Quinn (Sammamish resident) urged the city to implement a “Smart Disposal” pilot program to weigh refuse and charge based on actual disposal, arguing the current flat-rate container fee is unfair and does not incentivize diversion. - Ingrid Salmon (Kirkland resident) questioned the fairness of spending millions to address low water pressure for a small number of households in the Highlands, calling it a “pedestrian topic” but noting the high cost relative to the number of affected connections. - David Haynes (Juanita Beach resident) raised concerns about construction disruptions at the Park Shore senior living site, unsafe crosswalks, noise from a manhole cover, and neglected public access paths at Juanita Beach Park. - Murray McKinney (50-year Highlands resident) expressed support for Alternative 4 (temporary booster pump), stating it will restore pressure by mid-June and is preferable to continued low pressure. He criticized the city’s prior management of the issue. - Scott Morris (Finn Hill Neighborhood Alliance board) endorsed the Green Loop Implementation Plan and urged the city to prioritize property acquisition for trails, noting the availability of funding. - Heidi Schor (Juanita resident, chair of Eastern Green Loop subcommittee) urged the council to prioritize the eastern portion of the Green Loop to provide underserved Juanita residents access to green space. She stressed the importance of acquiring properties now and called for moving the Billy Goat Trail extension into phase one. - Jessie Brown (Juanita resident) voiced support for prioritizing the eastern portion of the Green Loop Trail. - Jennie Jaeger (chair, Juanita Neighborhood Association) asked the council to include an extension of the Billy Goat Trail through Juanita Heights Park in phase one of the Green Loop Plan to address inequitable park access for Juanita residents. Discussion Items - Upper Highlands Water Pressure – Alternative 4 Update: Senior Project Engineer I-Wen Yang presented the 30% design for a Temporary Regional Booster Pump Station (TRBPS) costing an estimated $1.45 million. The temporary solution would raise hydraulic gradient from 450 to 510, using a pump station and two check valves. The schedule is aggressive (deployment before summer 2026), using two contract packages and pre-approval requests. Sunk costs depend on the permanent solution chosen (Alternative 1 would reuse check valves; Alternative 2 would not). Staff noted the solution is not designed for long-term use (no seismic design, reduced reliability). Council members praised staff creativity and asked about parallel construction risks. A motion to include the TRBPS in the Capital Improvement Program and authorize final design and project delivery passed 7-0. - School Zone Signing Safety Enhancement Options: Transportation Engineering Supervisor Jennifer Palmer and Engineer Ed Wang presented seven optional safety enhancements. Council voted on each: Option 1 (School Speed Limit Signs): Approved staff recommendation to use “20 mph all the time” on local streets and “7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days” on collectors. Motion carried 7-0. Option 2 (School Flashing Beacons): Approved targeted installation on higher-speed, higher-volume roads based on proposed thresholds, with staff to return with an implementation plan. Motion carried 7-0. Option 3 (Dual Beacon Heads): Approved installation of dual flashing beacon heads at all locations citywide. Motion carried 7-0. Option 4 (Remote Connectivity): Approved citywide remote connectivity for all school flashing beacons (option 3). Motion carried 7-0. Option 5 (In-Street Signs): Approved staff recommendation to install in-street signs at school crosswalks where feasible (option 2). Motion carried 7-0. Option 6 (Gated Signage): Approved installation of gated signage at all school crossings (option 2). Motion carried 7-0. Option 7 (School Zone Stubs): Approved adding school zone stubs on perpendicular roads near schools (option 2). Motion carried 5-2 (Councilmember Arnold and Mayor Curtis dissented). - Briefing on Green Loop Implementation Plan: Parks Planning Manager Mariah Murphy and Green Kirkland Supervisor Jodie Galvan presented the plan. Phase one uses public lands only; phase two would involve private property partnerships. Community outreach included nearly 900 survey responses and strong support for connecting parks, preserving green space, and providing equitable access for Juanita residents. Staff recommended option 1: send customized letters to 70 landowners within hatched areas, then hold a public meeting on February 25, 2026. Council discussed concerns about property owner reactions, feasibility, and the need for flexibility. A motion to adopt staff recommendation with communication plan 1 and flexibility to hold the forum by April 1, 2026, passed 7-0. - Independent Force Investigation Team (IFIT) Update and Proposed ILA Modification: Police Chief Michel St Jean and Deputy Chief Philip Goguen presented the need to add the Seattle Police Department as a member agency of IFIT-KC, following the termination of SPD’s federal consent decree. They noted that Kirkland PD has been a disproportionate contributor (lead investigator in 7 of 14 call-outs). Adding Seattle would bring resources but likely increase workload. Council expressed concerns about resource imbalance and Seattle becoming dominant. An amendment by Councilmember Pascal required the City Manager and Police Chief to report back by December 31, 2026, on activations and resource impacts (amended from 2027 via a 5-2 vote). Resolution R-5712, as amended, passed 4-3 (Councilmembers Arnold, Black, Pascal, Prem in favor; Curtis, Falcone, Tymczyszyn opposed). Key Outcomes - Mayor and Deputy Mayor: Re-elected Kelli Curtis as Mayor and elected Neal Black as Deputy Mayor, both 7-0 votes. - Upper Highlands Water Pressure: Approved moving forward with the Temporary Regional Booster Pump Station (Alternative 4) at an estimated $1.45 million. Staff authorized to proceed with final design and project delivery. - School Zone Safety Enhancements: Directed staff to implement all seven options (five by 7-0, one by 7-0, one by 5-2) and return with an implementation plan and funding proposal. - Green Loop Implementation Plan: Approved staff’s communication plan 1 with a public meeting to be held by April 1, 2026; staff will continue design work and property owner outreach. - IFIT-KC Modification: Approved Resolution R-5712 adding Seattle Police Department to IFIT-KC, with a requirement for a resource impact report by December 31, 2026. Vote: 4-3. - Boards and Commissions Recruitment: Approved Option 2: extend expiring terms through June 2026, implement retreat changes, start recruitment in March 2026 with new terms starting July 2026. Motion carried 7-0. - Executive Session: Postponed to a future meeting due to time.

No agenda or minutes were available for this meeting. The raw transcript contains only brief, disjointed remarks that do not form a coherent discussion. No substantive business, motions, public comments, or decisions can be identified from the provided material.

The Kirkland Planning Commission met on December 11, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included a Housing Dashboard update, a public hearing on Design Review Amendments (CAM24-00881) required by state House Bill 1293, approval of minutes, and administrative reports. Vice Chair Angela Rozmyn chaired in the absence of Chair Rodney Rutherford. The Commission unanimously recommended the proposed design review changes and approved three sets of minutes. Special Presentations: Housing Dashboard Update - Building and Planning Director Adam Weinstein introduced the Housing Dashboard, launched to increase transparency around housing policy. - Senior Planner Scott Guter presented key data from the dashboard, including housing supply by major projects, affordable housing targets, middle housing permits since 2020, and total housing permits issued since 2017. Data sources included the Office of Financial Management, King County, Arch (affordable housing tracker), and the King County Assessor. - Commissioners asked questions and provided input: Commissioner Bouniol requested tracking demolition permits and net new housing units. Commissioner Madeya asked to track unit lot subdivisions and the impact of new housing policies. Commissioner Nolan suggested comparisons with neighboring communities and tracking purchase/rental prices. Vice Chair Rozmyn requested tracking number of bedrooms and commercial square footage. - Mr. Guter noted that the dashboard will be updated more regularly and that King County is asking for more refined data, including income segments for affordable housing and permit typologies. Public Hearing: Design Review Amendments (CAM24-00881) - Staff Presentation: Senior Planner Tony Leavitt reviewed that House Bill 1293 (RCW 36.70A.630) requires cities to apply only clear and objective regulations to exterior design, conduct design review concurrently with permit review, and limit public meetings to one. Council considered Chapter 142 (design review process) amendments at their November 18 meeting, including an administrative design review process with two application types (ADR1 and ADR2), expanded public noticing to residents within 300 feet, minor variations reviewable by staff, and a new alternative compliance process reviewed by the Design Review Board (DRB). - Mr. Leavitt detailed proposed changes to Chapter 92: reduced glazing requirement from 75% to 60% with artwork as an option; modulation options including upper level setbacks, roof line changes, vertical modulation, and stepbacks; articulation requirements (e.g., horizontal definition, bay windows, balconies); miscellaneous code amendments to reflect process changes; and repeal of 1997 Design Guidelines for Residential Development (now largely codified elsewhere). Design guidelines for Pedestrian-Oriented Business Districts, Totem Lake, Yarrow Bay, and NE 85th Street Station Subarea were updated with intent statements. - Public Testimony (6:23 PM): Liz Hunt, a Kirkland resident, expressed concern that while the state aims to reduce subjectivity, shifting design decisions from the DRB to city staff could lead to opaque, arbitrary decisions behind closed doors. - Deliberation: Commissioners responded: Vice Chair Rozmyn noted the change is state-directed. Commissioner Madeya said she was initially concerned but reassured by the level of detail and options. Commissioner Nolan praised the work but noted the complexity; Commissioner Jacobson called the change a net positive for certainty but expressed disappointment the city didn’t make further reforms, stating the result may be less aesthetically pleasing and more expensive buildings. All supported the motion. Key Outcomes - Design Review Amendments: Motion by Aaron Jacobson, seconded by Julia Nolan, to recommend the proposed amendments to KZC Chapter 92, miscellaneous KZC amendments, the proposed Design Guidelines for Pedestrian-Oriented Business Districts, Totem Lake Business District, Yarrow Bay Business District, NE 85th Street Station Subarea Plan, and changes to Design Guidelines for Residential Development. Passed 6-0 (all voted yes). - Approval of Minutes: Motion by Aaron Jacobson, seconded by Gina Madeya, to approve the minutes of May 7, 2025 (KPC Tour), August 28, 2025, and September 25, 2025. Passed 6-0 (all voted yes). Administrative Reports & Discussion - Public Meeting Calendar Update: Adam Weinstein reported that at its last meeting, City Council adopted the Critical Areas Ordinance, the Juanita Community Amendments Request (CARs) with modifications (including sunset of high-performing building standards and inclusionary zoning exemptions through 2029, a $2 million bond requirement for townhome-first developments), and the development plan for city-owned Houghton Village. - Vice Chair Rozmyn noted Council slightly expanded commercial uses in Juanita CARs and added the bond requirement to ensure mixed-use completion. - Mr. Weinstein reviewed upcoming Planning Commission agendas: no meetings remaining in December; January 8 and January 22 meetings will likely include officer elections for Chair and Vice Chair (current Chair Rodney Rutherford and Vice Chair Angela Rozmyn have expressed interest in stepping down). Commissioners Jacobson and Madeya expressed interest in serving. The possibility of holding elections at the January 8 meeting was discussed, with a potential transition period. Staff will look for additional items (e.g., update on affordable housing on religious properties) to fill the January meetings. - Commissioner Bouniol asked about the inactive Activity Map on the city’s webpage; staff reported IT is actively working to fix the bug.

The Kirkland City Council held a regular meeting on December 9, 2025, beginning at 7:30 p.m. and adjourning at 11:09 p.m. The meeting included honors for retiring Councilmember Penny Sweet, public comments, approval of a large consent calendar, and three major business items: adoption of the Houghton Village Development Plan, a lengthy briefing and amendment process for the Juanita Business District (JBD 4) and North Juanita Center zoning code amendments, and adoption of the 2025 annual Comprehensive Plan and zoning map amendments. All seven council members were present. Honors and Proclamations - Councilmember Penny Sweet was honored for her 16 years of service, including roles as mayor and deputy mayor. Mayor Curtis presented a ceremonial gavel. A formal celebration is planned for 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Alexandra Titiyevska (Chinese Information Service Center) expressed appreciation for city support and highlighted challenges: lack of direct bus routes from Kirkland to Seattle and Bellevue, limited English classes for seniors, and the need for an improved transit center. - Jessica Roe (attorney for Michaels site owner) urged the council to maintain 75-foot height as base zoning (not via development agreement) and supported 80% AMI affordability levels, stating 50% AMI makes development unviable. - Alison Warner (Balboa Retail Partners, Goodwill site) supported compromise amendments (11, 12, 20, 22, 26) and opposed amendments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 17, 18, 19. - Eugene Chudin urged the city to prioritize driver needs over cycling infrastructure, citing low bicycle usage and traffic congestion at 114th/85th intersection. - Alex Tsimmerman discussed alleged issues with King County Housing Authority regarding subsidized housing for non-citizens and his intent to sue. - Jeremy Eckert (Balboa counsel) supported amendments 11, 12, 20, 22, 26 and expressed openness to a $2 million bond for affordable housing, but opposed drafts with a 30-unit formula. - Lisa Berenson opposed development of the Michaels site, citing geotechnical issues, traffic, and loss of everyday retail. She demanded setbacks and height limits be preserved. - Phil Allen thanked the city for codifying requirements for the NE Recycling and Transfer Station project and requested that the full $34 million land acquisition budget be included in the Comprehensive Plan. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0) by motion of Councilmember Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Falcone. - Included approval of minutes from November 14, 18 (two meetings), 29, and December 2, 2025; audit of accounts (payroll $8,830,662.95 on 11/24/2025, $7,739,837.80 on 12/8/2025, and bills $10,447,332.99); claims for damages; and 17 other items of business, including: - Resolution R-5707: Authorizing contract with German Retirement Home for multifamily housing tax exemption. - Resolution R-5708: Extending Electric Leaf Blower Initiative and exploring a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers by December 31, 2028. - Resolution R-5709: Expressing intent to repay interfund loan for Houghton Village. - Resolution R-5699: Adopting the Kirkland Transportation Safety Action Plan and revised speed limit policy. - 2025 Annual Transportation Benefit District Status Report. - Update on Cascade Water Alliance acquisition of Snoqualmie Aquifer water rights. - Affirming King County’s naming of the Health Through Housing site “Sheila Stanton Place.” - Ordinance O-4919: 2026 Property Tax Levy Adoption. - Resolution R-5710: Eleventh Amendment to City Manager Kurt Triplett’s employment agreement. - Various reports (investment, sales tax, financial dashboard, police dashboard, animal services, automated safety camera, procurement). Discussion Items Houghton Village Development Plan Adoption (Ordinance O-4915) - Director of Planning and Building Adam Weinstein presented the plan, which outlines a framework for future development including housing, open space, and commercial space, with 10% deviation allowances. It does not compel construction or affect the decision to sell the property. - Amendment (Pascal): Added a directive to the city manager to transmit by March 3, 2026, a resolution expressing the council’s intent to sell the Houghton Village property. Passed 5-2 (Councilmembers Sweet and Falcone opposed). - Main Motion as Amended: Adopted 7-0. Juanita Business District (JBD 4) and North Juanita Center Zoning Code Amendments (Ordinance O-4920) - Staff presented a comprehensive briefing on 29 amendments, organized by topic. The council voted on each amendment individually. - Key Votes on Amendments: - Amendment 1 (Black): Base zoning of 60 feet with development agreement option for 75 feet – Failed 2-5. - Amendments 2, 4, 5: Withdrawn by sponsors. - Amendment 9 (Arnold): Conditional allowance of townhomes with covenant for mixed-use development within 3 years and $2 million bond – Passed 7-0. - Amendment 11 (Arnold): Time-limited affordable housing incentives for BC1 zone (vested before 12/31/2029) – Passed 5-2 (Falcone, Tymczyszyn opposed). - Amendment 12 (Arnold): Same incentive for JBD4 zone – Passed 5-2 (Falcone, Tymczyszyn opposed). - Amendment 22 (Arnold): Waive high-performing building standards for BC1 until 12/31/2029 – Passed 5-2 (Falcone, Tymczyszyn opposed). - Amendment 23 (Arnold): Same for JBD4 – Passed 5-2 (Falcone, Tymczyszyn opposed). - Amendment 28 (Black): Pioneer 75-foot height for BC1 mixed-use until 12/31/2029 – Failed 2-5. - Amendment 16 (Pascal): Require 75% commercial frontage on 98th Ave NE and NE Juanita Drive – Passed 4-3 (Falcone, Sweet, Tymczyszyn opposed). - Amendment 17 (Pascal): Increase commercial requirement on 100th Ave NE (75% of ground floor or 15,000 sq ft) – Failed 3-4. - Amendments 20 and 21 (Sweet): Subject new development to Administrative Design Review – Both Passed 7-0. - Amendment 18 (Pascal): Upper story stepbacks in BC1 – Failed 2-5. - Amendment 27 (Curtis): Require pedestrian pathway connection between Juanita Bay Park and Juanita Beach Park to be built at time of development (no payment-in-lieu) – Passed 6-1 (Arnold opposed). - Amendment 3 (Black, proposed as a comprehensive sunset provision): Withdrawn. - Final Ordinance: Motion to adopt O-4920 as amended by Councilmember Sweet, seconded by Falcone. Passed 6-1 (Pascal opposed). - Staff delegated authority to make technical corrections (7-0). 2025 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendments and Zoning Map Amendment (Ordinance O-4921) - Director Weinstein presented minor text amendments (wildfire risk policy, NERTS utilities update, CIP references, history appendix), and land use/zoning map changes to correct Rose Hill Meadows Park designation and add the Miller property to park designation. - Motion: Adopted 7-0. Key Outcomes - Houghton Village Development Plan adopted with a directive to bring back a resolution on selling the property by March 3, 2026. - Juanita zoning amendments passed (6-1) after extensive debate, including time-limited incentives for affordable housing and high-performing building standards, a conditional townhome allowance with a $2 million bond, revised commercial frontage requirements, and a mandatory pedestrian pathway connection. - 2025 Comprehensive Plan amendments adopted unanimously. - Consent calendar approved with all items. - Councilmember Penny Sweet was honored for her service; her formal celebration will occur in 2026. - City Manager noted plans for a council retreat in February 2026.

The Kirkland City Council held a special meeting on December 9, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber to consider six major agenda items. All votes were unanimous (7-0). The meeting was called to order by Mayor Kelli Curtis and adjourned at 6:36 p.m. Key actions included authorizing the Kraken Iceplex and Community Center project, adopting a Homelessness Continuum of Care Action Plan, approving year-end budget adjustments, updating the Capital Improvement Program, approving sports field lighting at Lake Washington High School, and adopting Critical Area Code Amendments. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar was used; all items were considered separately. Public Comments & Testimony - Lake Washington High School Sports Field Lighting (Item 3e): During the public hearing before the Hearing Examiner, six members of the public testified in support of the proposal. Additionally, four letters in support were received prior to the hearing. Two comment letters raised concerns about potential lighting impacts, late-night noise, parking, and traffic. The Duwamish Tribe requested an inadvertent discovery plan, which was addressed by staff. Discussion Items - Kraken Iceplex and Community Center Project – Agreements (Resolution R-5704): Deputy City Manager Jim Lopez and City Attorney Darcey Eilers presented the agreements. The project involves a public-private partnership with Seattle Hockey Partners (Kraken) to develop the Houghton Park and Ride property into an iceplex, restaurant, and community center. Key points: the city owns the land and will always own it; the Kraken will fund construction ($60 million); the city may purchase the facility after substantial completion. A financial guarantee from Slapshot (Kraken parent) and Seattle Hockey Partners provides annual monitoring and a two-year rent protection if financial thresholds are breached. The council approved amendments to refine the guarantee language, correct an exhibit reference, and require monthly updates from the City Manager until the purchase decision. The resolution passed 7-0. - Homelessness Continuum of Care Action Plan Adoption (Resolution R-5705): Management Analyst Juliana da Cruz and Human Services Supervisor Becky Gilley presented the final plan, adding Action 77 (advocate for state/regional homelessness prevention policies) and updating Action 65 to allow flexibility on affordable housing funding, including a regional levy. Councilmember Tymczyszyn expressed skepticism about a regional levy but did not oppose. The resolution passed 7-0. An update on Health Through Housing (Sheila Stanton Place) noted two clients had passed initial screening and could move in by late December 2025. - 2025 Year-End Budget Adjustments (Ordinance O-4916): Financial Planning Manager Kevin Pelstring presented $46.45 million in total adjustments ($35.06 million in appropriation adjustments). Notable items: funding for a Woodinville School Zone Safety Camera program (pending agreement), emergency management event safety monitoring, and a $100,000 tool library. Councilmember Pascal moved that tool library funds not be expended until an implementation plan is approved by council in 2026; the motion carried 7-0. The ordinance as amended passed 7-0. - Adoption of 2025–2030 Revised Capital Improvement Program (Resolution R-5706): Pelstring highlighted updates including a $100,000 grant for Spinney Homestead Park design, a new unfunded $2 million community center capacity enhancement project, and funding adjustments for the Kamayak Gym expansion options. The resolution passed 7-0. - Lake Washington High School Master Plan Amendment and Planned Unit Development for Sports Field Lighting (Ordinance O-4917): Senior Planner Tony Levitt presented the quasi-judicial request to install 70–80 foot light poles for baseball, softball, and an all-sports field. The Hearing Examiner recommended approval with a 10:00 p.m. curfew. The council suspended rules to vote that evening. Councilmembers expressed support for expanded recreational opportunities. The ordinance passed 7-0. - Adoption of Critical Area Code Amendments (Ordinance O-4918): Environmental Program Coordinator Anna Heckman and Senior Planner Jennifer Anderer presented updates to Chapters 5, 85, 90, and 95 of the Zoning Code. Changes streamline review for low-risk projects, enhance wetland/stream buffers, add a riparian management zone, clarify mitigation requirements, and allow limited legal non-conforming building expansions. The ordinance passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Resolution R-5704 – Authorized the Kraken Iceplex and Community Center project agreements, including amendments to the lease guarantee and reporting requirements. Passed 7-0. - Resolution R-5705 – Adopted the Homelessness Continuum of Care Action Plan. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance O-4916 – Amended the 2025-2026 biennial budget with a condition that tool library funds require council approval of an implementation plan. Passed 7-0. - Resolution R-5706 – Adopted the 2025–2030 Capital Improvement Program updates. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance O-4917 – Approved the Lake Washington High School sports field lighting permit with conditions, including a 10:00 p.m. curfew. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance O-4918 – Adopted Critical Area Code Amendments to comply with state law and improve environmental protections. Passed 7-0. - Next Steps: Staff will provide monthly updates on the Kraken project, return with tool library implementation plan, continue exploring Kamayak Gym funding options, and prepare the 2027-2028 biennial budget.

On November 27, 2025, a Kirkland, Washington public information message was released in which presenter Carly outlined steps residents can take to prepare for winter storms involving snow, ice, wind, or a combination of all three. No agenda or minutes were provided for this item. The raw transcript consists of the same preparedness message repeated several times, with unrelated audio fragments interleaved; the guidance below consolidates the substantive information from the recording. Winterizing Household Emergency Plans - Carly advised that winterizing an emergency plan includes knowing what the household will do if people cannot get to work because of weather, learning alternate routes to places residents frequently travel, and planning how to make do without usual access to electricity for food, heat, laundry, and other daily tasks. Updating Emergency and Commuter Kits - Carly recommended adding items for warmth, safety, or visibility, plus a flashlight, whistle, sturdy shoes, ice scraper, shovel, and some type of snow melt, for situations involving power loss or being stuck or delayed during a commute. - Vehicle owners were advised to check engine fluid levels, battery, de-icing supplies, washer fluid, tire tread, and car lights before bad weather is forecast. - Residents who do not drive to work were advised to check the equipment they depend on for commuting, including items for safety, visibility, and warmth, plus anything specific to their mode of transportation, and to update their commuter kit. Sheltering in Place Without Power - Carly said households that plan to stay home during an outage should gather supplies to shelter in place without power, including items that allow entertainment without the internet, nutritious food without opening the fridge or freezer, and warmth without regular home heating systems. Clearing Walkways and Driveways - Carly noted that while most public roads are cleared during snowstorms, residents are responsible for making sure they can get from their home to the nearest cleared public street, meaning they and their neighbors will need to clear walkways, the route to parking spots, and driveways. Staying Informed - Residents were encouraged to check local weather updates and the city's website when storms are approaching, and to sign up for updates about delays, cancellations, or changes to scheduled programs their families attend, including school, dance classes, and other activities, as well as to learn how other programs they are involved in distribute updates. Key Outcomes and Next Steps - No votes, motions, or formal decisions were made during this recording; it served as a public preparedness announcement. - The key takeaway from Carly was that completing this process in advance will help residents stay safe and warm through the winter.

The Kirkland City Council held a special meeting at 5:30 PM and a regular meeting at 7:30 PM on November 18, 2025. The special session addressed a park property acquisition, a Kraken partnership update, and the 2026 state legislative agenda. The regular session featured proclamations, two public hearings, a consent calendar with numerous routine items, and business items including a homelessness action plan review, a water pressure update, a greenway project funding request, zoning code amendments for two Juanita district sites, and the 2026 property tax levy adoption. The meeting adjourned at 11:47 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the November 5, 2025 regular meeting. - Acknowledged audit of accounts: bills $5,165,599.42 and payroll $8,042,489.51. - Acknowledged claims for damages from six individuals. - Awarded a construction contract to Kamins Construction of Bothell, Washington for the NE 100th Street/132nd Avenue Intersection Improvement project in the amount of $1,186,388.19. - Acknowledged the Native American Heritage Day Proclamation. - Accepted a $1,000 donation from Congregation Kol Ami for the Homeless Support Program. - Acknowledged Library Board member Heather Gertmenian's resignation and approved appointment of alternate Graham Haas. - Declared surplus vehicles and authorized disposal through sale. - Approved Resolution R-5703 adopting the 2024 Streets Levy Accountability Report. - Acknowledged the Multifamily Tax Exemption (MFTE) Final Report. - Acknowledged the 2025 Third Quarter Parks and Community Services Report, Third Quarter Fire Dashboard Report, September 2025 Financial Dashboard Report, and Procurement Report. - Motion carried 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Items from the Audience (9 speakers): Bea Nahon honored former councilmember Dave Asher and suggested naming the 100th Street Bridge after him. Gaylene Vaden, Director of Grants at Kindering, thanked the city for funding programs serving children with developmental delays and families experiencing homelessness. Kyle Sullivan supported the Houghton Village development plan, urging maintenance of building heights at the Michael and Goodwill sites and flexibility in affordable housing requirements. Alison Warner (Balboa Retail Partners) noted the property owner's engagement in the zoning process for the Goodwill site. Murray McKinney (Highlands resident) supported Alternative 4 for the water pressure issue and urged urgent action. Loita Hawkinson requested curb-tire education to prevent runaway vehicles. Alex Tsimerman voiced grievances about legal treatment and criticized governance. Lisa Berenson opposed development on the Michael and Goodwill sites, calling for stricter height limits and higher affordability. Joe Kunzler encouraged respectful public comment and suggested limiting comments to city business. - Houghton Village Public Hearing (13 testifiers): Scott Denman, Tracy Durnell, Beth Lenholt, Margaret Toomey (Studio East), Kyle Sullivan, Debbie Thiel, Amber Hu, Catie Malik, Nicole MacKenzie, Lauren Hall-Stigerts, Gennifer Zents, Jennifer Loy, Lisa Berenson, Vita Lia, and Stu Vanderhook testified. Many supported the development plan with five-story height, reduced parking, and community/arts spaces. Some urged more affordable housing and guaranteed nonprofit space. Several opposed the plan, arguing it is financially infeasible and restricts future development, and advocated selling the property without restrictive conditions. Catie Malik proposed selling the property due to taxpayer costs and soil issues. Nicole MacKenzie argued the development plan and sale decision are intertwined. Vita Lia requested affordability for current residents. Stu Vanderhook opposed based on experience with similar projects. - Design Review Board Public Hearing (3 testifiers): Kyle Sullivan supported the changes. Bea Nahon agreed with streamlining but criticized the 300-foot notice radius as too small and warned against reducing public oversight. Lisa Beronson argued that one DRB meeting is insufficient for meaningful review. Discussion Items - Houghton Village Development Plan (O-4915): Deputy Director Allison Zike presented the draft development plan, which would allow up to five-story mixed-use development on the city-owned site, with approximately 145 residential units and 26,000 square feet of commercial/community space. The plan includes design guidelines, sustainability requirements, and parking standards that would default to existing code or the lower standards of SB 5184 (to be implemented by January 2027). Councilmembers supported moving forward with the plan, with several favoring reduced parking requirements aligned with SB 5184. The plan will be considered for adoption on December 9, 2025. A zoning code amendment to reference the five-story height allowance will also be brought forward. - Design Review Process and Zoning Code Amendments (Chapter 142): Senior Planner Tony Leavitt presented changes to comply with state law (RCW 36.70A.630), including administrative review for eligible projects, a single public meeting requirement, and an alternative compliance role for the Design Review Board. Council supported the amendments, with discussion on the 300-foot notice radius (including residents) and handling of potential deadlocks. The final code will be presented for adoption in January 2026 alongside related guidelines. - Homelessness Continuum of Care Action Plan Review: Human Services Manager Jen Boone and Analyst Juliana da Cruz presented the revised plan with 76 actions. Council provided direction on action 65 (funding advocacy) – supporting a hybrid approach: advocate for more regional funding for affordable housing, including exploring a King County housing levy, with additional community engagement. Staff will bring the plan for adoption on December 9, 2025. Council also supported adding an action to consider advocacy for state/regional policies supporting homelessness prevention. - Highlands Water Pressure Update: Senior Project Engineer I-Wen Yang presented Alternative 4 – a temporary regional booster pump station to restore pressure before summer 2026. Council directed staff to proceed with pre-design and return in January 2026 with refined cost and schedule. The solution is considered temporary and would be decommissioned after a permanent fix. - Kirkland Neighborhoods Greenway Stores to Shores Update: Capital Division Manager Rob English requested a $250,000 fiscal note addition (from interest on a 2021 transportation debt issuance) to cover flagging cost overruns and complete the project. The motion carried 7-0. - Juanita Business District (JBD 4) and North Juanita Center Zoning Code Amendments: Senior Planner LeAndra Baker-Lewis and Director Adam Weinstein briefed council on Planning Commission recommendations for the Goodwill and Michael sites, including height increases, townhome allowances, commercial requirements, and affordable housing flexibility. Council agreed to a schedule: council members will communicate amendment concepts to staff by November 21; draft amendments will be posted by December 2; applicants requested to submit feedback by December 5; adoption on December 9. Discussion included using binding site plans to ensure mixed-use development on the Goodwill site. - 2026 Property Tax Levy Adoption: Finance Director Michael Olson presented Ordinance O-4914, setting the levy at about 87 cents per $1,000 assessed value (down from 93 cents), including a 1% increase ($440,000) and new construction adjustments. The ordinance was adopted unanimously, 7-0. Key Outcomes - Votes and Decisions: - Consent calendar approved 7-0. - Stores to Shores fiscal note ($250,000) approved 7-0. - 2026 Property Tax Levy (Ordinance O-4914) approved 7-0. - Reaffirmed actions from the November 18 special meeting (Resolutions R-5701, R-5702 as amended, and letter to eCityGov alliance) unanimously. - Direction to Staff: - Proceed with pre-design of Alternative 4 temporary booster pump station for Highlands water pressure; report back in January 2026. - Incorporate council's direction on the Homelessness Action Plan (hybrid language for action 65, added policy advocacy action) and bring for adoption on December 9. - Develop Houghton Village Development Plan with reduced parking standards (SB 5184); bring ordinance for adoption on December 9. - Prepare Design Review Board code amendments for adoption in January 2026. - For JBD 4 and North Juanita Center amendments, work with council members on draft amendments and aim for adoption on December 9. - Referrals and Next Steps: - The Transportation Benefit District update (NE 132nd Street & Juanita Drive) was moved to January 2026. - The executive session on employee performance was deferred to a future date before December 9. - City Council regional reports were skipped due to late hour.

The Kirkland City Council held a special meeting on November 18, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. to conduct business requiring action, including a park property acquisition and adoption of the 2026 state legislative agenda. Mayor Kelli Curtis participated virtually due to illness, and Councilmember Amy Falcone joined remotely. The meeting adjourned at 7:03 p.m. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were considered during the special meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were received. Discussion Items - Parks Property Acquisition: Parks Planning and Development Manager Mariah Murphy presented a proposal to acquire a 1.5-acre parcel adjoining Juanita Bay Park for $1.275 million. The property includes a 1930s single-family home and garage. Short-term plans include limited leasing (2026), community gardens (mid-term), and long-term conversion to a park ranger outpost and public gathering space. Funding would come from park impact fees (90%) and general fund cash (10%). Council expressed support, noting the ecological value, trail connections, and affordable housing potential. A motion to approve Resolution R-5701 passed unanimously (7-0). - Kraken Partnership Update: Deputy City Manager James Lopez, City Attorney Darcey Eilers, and Economic Development Manager Jen Davis Hayes provided an update on the proposed public-private partnership with Seattle Hockey Partners (SHP) for a $60 million iceplex and community center. Key discussion points included: building design and permitting (60% complete), fit-and-finish cost gap (approx. $750,000, with potential offset through city site prep), technical issues (fire truck access, water system capacity, fire flow), Washington State Department of Transportation and federal highway access break requirements, unopened right-of-way vacation, parking (approx. 210 spaces with revenue-sharing formula), restaurant (2,300 sq ft full-service), community benefits (two hours free open skate per month for Kirkland residents, discounted rates for disadvantaged groups through One Roof Foundation), and guarantee structure (SHP and Slapshot LLC jointly and severally liable). No action was taken; final agreements are expected for the December 9 council meeting. - 2026 State Legislative Agenda and Federal Lobbying Services: Interim Government Affairs Manager Andreana Campbell presented the finalized 2026 state legislative agenda. Council debated adding a provision to include the Homelessness Continuum of Care Action Plan (if adopted in December or January) to the agenda; an amendment by Mayor Curtis was adopted (7-0). The main resolution (R-5702) then passed (7-0). Council also voted to sign a support letter from the eCityGov Alliance requesting $2.7 million for permitting platform upgrades (motion passed 7-0). On federal lobbying services, staff sought direction on a one-year pilot contract with CFM Advocates ($24,000 from Council Special Projects Reserve). Council discussed timing and staff effort; consensus was to bring alternative funding options to the December 9 meeting for a vote. Key Outcomes - Resolution R-5701 adopted (7-0): Authorized the City Manager to execute a purchase and sale agreement for park property at Juanita Bay and use park impact fees and general fund cash for financing. Closing is scheduled for November 26, 2025. - Resolution R-5702 adopted (7-0) as amended: Approved the 2026 state legislative agenda, with an amendment to add the Homelessness Continuum of Care Action Plan to the general principles if adopted by council in December 2025 or January 2026. - Support letter for eCityGov Alliance approved (7-0): Authorized signing a letter requesting a $2.7 million state allocation for the mybuildingpermit.com platform. - Federal lobbying services deferred for further consideration: Council directed staff to bring funding options and possibly updated CFM proponents to the December 9 meeting for a vote.