Bellevue City Council Meeting - Dec 9, 2025: Commendation and Ordinances
Bellevue City Council Meeting - December 9, 2025
This special meeting of the Bellevue City Council honored Councilmember Conrad Lee's 32 years of service with a unanimous commendation, public tributes, and a ceremonial swearing-in of newly elected members. The council also addressed routine business, including the adoption of the Diversity Advantage Plan 2035 and the Critical Areas Ordinance update, while managing public testimony on local development issues and stream typing protocols.
Consent Calendar
- The council unanimously approved the consent calendar, authorizing routine financial and administrative actions.
Public Comments & Testimony
- Chung Chen expressed deep appreciation on behalf of a community organization for Councilmember Lee's 32 years of service and presented a commemorative plaque, stating they were grateful for his dedication to lifting up the diverse community.
- Mason G. (Councilmember Lee's former intern from 2011) addressed the council directly to thank Lee for his leadership, stating that Lee's legacy is the future of the city and the country. He expressed that witnessing Lee take the reins of leadership as a minority leader was a transformative moment for him.
- Matt Felton (Owner of Gateway One, a commercial property owner) expressed support for the "Pavement to Places" code amendment. He stated that under current regulations, wetland designations prevent the replacement of parking required for his sale to Trammel Crow, thereby blocking the creation of 300+ homes including 60+ affordable units. He argued that the amendment is necessary to balance housing needs with ecological function.
- Mark Hoyt (Developer Trammel Crow Residential) stated that his firm has zero public opposition to their project but faces a "bureaucratic web of complications." He urged the council to take decisive action to direct staff in adopting a code amendment, warning that without it, the property will remain a parking lot for decades instead of delivering 300 homes.
- Tim Hayes expressed strong opposition to a potential staff framework regarding stream typing. He argued that allowing developers to hire and pay experts to determine stream status (Type N vs. Type F) creates a conflict of interest and could lead to fraudulent acts, citing a preference for state experts over a developer-driven process.
- An anonymous resident asked for a meeting to discuss residential parking law changes, reported specific potholes on Northeast 12th Street, and requested traffic flow insights.
Discussion Items
Tribute to Councilmember Conrad Lee
- Mayor Lynn Robinson led the tributes, calling Lee a "legend" who has showed unwavering support for businesses and communities, noting Lee's role in mentoring young leaders and his legendary fight for the cross-cultural center.
- Councilmember Bargava expressed awe at Lee's 32 years of service, highlighting Lee's mentorship during Bargava's decision to run for office and praising Lee's forward-thinking approach to durable policy.
- Councilmember Hamilton described Lee as a "staunch advocate" for city interests and a "cornerstone" of the cross-cultural center effort, emphasizing Lee's belief in fiscal stability to better serve residents.
- Councilmember New House reflected on Lee's history as the first Asian American mayor and minority council member, praising Lee's humility and accessibility, and noting that Lee's influence will echo in every future decision.
- Deputy Mayor Malikutian (joining remotely via phone from New York) expressed that Lee's 32 years represent a "trust" that cannot be bought, stating Lee opened a door for him and that generations will feel the effects of Lee's choices.
- Councilmember Sumadouria emotionally thanked Lee for making her feel she belonged in Bellevue as a young immigrant, citing Lee as a "teacher for life" (Shufu) and a symbol of home.
- City Manager Diane Carlson thanked Lee for being incredibly supportive of staff, pushing for innovation while maintaining fiscal stability, and bringing enthusiasm to the city.
- Councilmember Lee delivered a speech thanking his wife, son, daughter-in-law, and former intern Mason G. He emphasized that his service 32 years ago was for the people who came out to support the city, not just him. He expressed pride in Bellevue's growth from a less than 5% minority population to over 50% minority, crediting the team effort for this success. He encouraged the next generation to continue the work, emphasizing the value of the "Pavement to Places" concept (learning to live together) and the importance of being an "American by choice."
Diversity Advantage Plan 2035
- Deputy City Manager Joe Todd and DEI Administrator Sarah Boyle presented revisions to the plan directed by the November study session, specifically modifying Equity Objective 6.1 (access to human services), Equity Objective 2.1 (adding nonprofits to economic development), and Section 7.3 (clarifying language on the cross-cultural center).
- Mayor Robinson commended the staff for integrating council feedback into the program, noting the process was inclusive and the work was excellent. She moved to adopt the resolution without further comments.
Critical Areas Ordinance (Ordinance 6894)
- Director Rebecca Horner, Nick Whipple, and Kirsten Mant presented the draft ordinance to meet the state-mandated December 31, 2025 deadline. They highlighted updates including streamlined buffer setbacks, enhanced incentives for stream improvement, and clear pathways for developing over Category 3 wetlands with mitigation.
- Councilmember Hamilton expressed satisfaction with the draft, noting it unlocks housing opportunities while protecting habitats. He requested clarification on the process for Category 3 wetlands and commended staff for the quick response to his inquiries.
- Councilmember Sumadouria thanked staff for clarifying the state's net-zero reporting requirement and appreciated the updated definition of "qualified professionals" for wetland typing.
- Councilmember New House questioned the ability to continue working with Trammel Crow to deliver 300 homes, specifically 60 affordable units, without a specific amendment. He expressed concern that the opportunity might be lost if not resolved quickly.
- Developer Staff (Nick Whipple/Rebecca Horner) clarified that the current ordinance offers new flexibilities and that staff is committed to continuing the dialogue with Trammel Crow to find solutions using alternative layouts or existing code allowances, though they could not guarantee the specific project will proceed without further technical review of wetland reports.
- Councilmember Lee reiterated that the city must work creatively with water assets and incorporate ecological soundness into housing solutions, expressing support for the ordinance as proposed.
- Councilmember Lee (follow-up) sought assurance regarding the risk of stream typing decisions, confirming that a specialized team and third-party reviewers utilize standardized processes to determine critical areas to ensure the right decisions are made, not favoring developers.
Key Outcomes
- Adopted Resolution 10568: Officially adopted the Diversity Advantage Plan 2035 with the proposed amendments regarding human services, nonprofits, and the cross-cultural center.
- Adopted Ordinance 6894: Approved the Critical Areas Ordinance update to govern development regulations and comply with the December 31, 2025 state deadline. The ordinance amends various chapters of the Bellevue Land Use Code to balance environmental protection with housing growth.
- Council Procedure: Adopted a temporary rule authorizing the election of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor on January 6, 2026, using the simultaneous voting method.
- Temporary Leadership: Nominated Mayor Lynn Robinson to serve as the temporary chair for the January 6, 2026 meeting until the new Mayor is selected.
- Swearing-In: Judge Lisa O'Toole administered the oath of office to re-elected members Councilmember Robinson, Councilmember New House, Councilmember Bargava, and Councilmember Sumadouria, as well as newly elected Councilmember Elect Nareen Breyer.
- Adjournment: The meeting concluded with a final tribute to the outgoing council and the Mayor, with no further business listed.
Meeting Transcript
Let's see, we have uh deput mayor calling in just for a portion of this of this meeting. Um do we have a do we need to excuse him? He would like to certainly can he's only just going to be participating for the congregation for councilmember Lee. Is there a motion to excuse the deputy mayor? So move. Second. All those in favor say aye. Aye, any opposed? Thank you. Okay, City Clerk, can we do a roll call, please? Mayor Robinson. Here. Deputy Mayor Malikutian. Thank you. Councilmember Bargava? Here. Councilmember Hamilton. Here. Councilmember Lee. Here. Councilmember Newman House. Here. And Councilmember Simadowia. Thank you. Councilmember Lee, could you please lead us in the flag salute? Thank you, Madam Mayor. Please rise. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. And to the public for which extends one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. So this is a special occasion tonight. This is Councilmember Lee's last meeting with us, and we have a commendation to read to you. And I wanted to share it with the entire council. So we're all going to take turns reading it to you, okay. Whereas Councilmember Conrad Lee has provided outstanding service to the City of Bellevue since his election to the City Council in 1994. In 1994, dedicating himself to advancing a safe, inclusive, innovative and fiscally sound community and as a longtime Bellevue resident, Councilmember Lee brings a deep commitment to public service informed by his engineering and business background, including a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from the University of Cheap Michigan, an MBA from the University of Washington, and professional experience in both the aerospace and small business sectors. Whereas prior to and during his tenure on the council, Councilmember Lee has held leadership roles, including Mayor of Bellevue from 2012 through 2013, and Deputy Mayor, through which he guided city governance during times of growth, times of challenge, helping shape Bellevue's evolution into a regional hub for innovation and opportunity. And whereas he has been a steadfast advocate for public safety, transportation and infrastructure, affordable housing, a cross-cultural center, and responsible economic development, while championing Bellevue's commitment to welcoming and including all members of the community, and has proudly upheld the city's strong tradition of fiscal stewardship, often playfully referring to himself as the fiscal hawk on the council. And whereas his regional and statewide leadership, including service on the Puget Sound Regional Council's Economic Development Board, and Sound Cities Association, Equity and Inclusion Cabinet, and the Greater Seattle Partners Executive Council has strengthened Bellevue's voice in the region and advanced equity, access, and opportunity beyond city limits. And whereas Councilmember Lee has consistently brought a collaborative and thoughtful approach to governance, working across sectors and jurisdictions to ensure policy and investments reflect the needs and aspirations of all Bellevue residents, and whereas his long dedication to public service continues to set a high standard for leadership and community impact in Bellevue. Now therefore, I, Mayor Lynn Robinson, on behalf of the Bellevue City Council, do this ninth day of December in the year 2025 hereby command Conrad Lee for his exemplary service, enduring leadership, and tireless commitment to making Bellevue a better place for all who live, work, study, and play here. Thank you very much. Would you like to like to uh get a picture? Listen to the council and then speak. Okay. We are each gonna take a turn to speak to Councilmember Lee, and then we will give him a chance to speak, and I will kick us off. You are a legend in this city. Each time, and I just marveled at his commitment to the community and his involvement. You have showed support to the community at large to businesses. You don't just know the Bellevue Chamber, you know every chamber in this region, and they know you, and you have supported businesses throughout the region. Your fight for the cross-cultural center, and especially you are legendary among the many young leaders that you have met with and helped nurture, and whom I have come to work with that have been the beneficiaries of your guidance and your teachings.
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