The Bellevue City Council met on May 12, 2026, beginning at 2:00 PM. The meeting included four proclamations, a consent calendar, 17 pre-registered public comments, and three major study sessions: a proposed 2027 sewer rate increase, land use code amendments for high-density residential and planned unit developments, and an ordinance to criminalize targeted residential protests. The council also voted to adopt Ordinance 6917 and to initiate work on land use code amendments.
Seventeen pre-registered speakers addressed the council, with a 30-minute limit. Topics included:
King County Wastewater Treatment Division Director Cameron Grohl presented a proposed 12.75% rate increase for 2027, with double-digit increases forecast through the mid-2030s, driven largely by combined sewer overflow (CSO) compliance and aging infrastructure. Councilmembers expressed alarm over the cumulative 215% increase over 20 years and its impact on affordability. Deputy Mayor Hamilton, Councilmember Newmanhouse, and others supported a regional letter from Sound Cities Association (SCA) urging King County Council to consider affordability measures. Councilmember Robinson asked about state/federal funding and public education. Director Grohl outlined cost-containment efforts and a long-range planning update (RWSP). Councilmember Sumateria requested better communication and ratepayer assistance. Lucy Liu noted Bellevue’s existing utility assistance programs (70% discount for low-income seniors/disabled, emergency waivers) serving about 1,000 households annually. The council expressed unanimous support for the SCA letter.
Nick Whipple and Sean Eicholz (Development Services) presented a proposed work plan to implement the 2024 Comprehensive Plan. Three components: (1) create a new high-density residential (HDR) district (up to 60 units/acre, 40-60 ft height) for areas around Crossroads and Factoria malls; (2) update the planned unit development (PUD) code (first updated in 1990s) to provide incentives for affordable housing, tree retention, and open space, including possible height increases up to 65 feet on sites over 10 acres; (3) process legislative rezones, including Overlake Farms (to low-density residential with PUD). Councilmembers raised concerns about infrastructure capacity, engagement with neighborhood associations (especially Bridal Trails), and ensuring density aligns with community character. Deputy Mayor Hamilton urged "bold" implementation. The council voted unanimously to initiate the work and direct the Planning Commission to review.
City Attorney Trishna Khanna and Deputy City Manager Diana Carlson presented an ordinance to create a new gross misdemeanor for targeted residential protest. The ordinance prohibits protest activities (including standing, marching, with or without signs or noise) by four or more people focused on a specific residence in a residential land use district, based on the U.S. Supreme Court case Frisbee v. Schultz. Councilmembers engaged in extensive debate. Councilmembers Robinson, Newmanhouse, Deputy Mayor Hamilton, and Mayor Malikutian supported the ordinance, citing the need to protect residential privacy and safety, and noting that the ordinance is narrowly tailored and content-neutral. Councilmember Breyer opposed, arguing it is too broad and may infringe on free speech. Councilmember Sumateria expressed internal conflict but ultimately supported for the sake of family safety. Councilmember Barkava asked clarifying questions. The council discussed implementation training for police and burden of proof. The council voted 6-1 to adopt Ordinance 6917, with Councilmember Breyer dissenting.
The meeting adjourned after a brief governmental affairs update.
We might have it out. Great. Let's start the meeting. Welcome everyone. Packed room. We are very happy you are here, taking the time to be here and share your thought. Your voice matters. Can we have a roll call, City Clerk, please? Yes, thank you. Mayor Malikutian? Here. Deputy Mayor Hamilton. Here. Councilmember Barkava. Here. Councilmember Newman House. Councilmember Robinson. Here. Councilmember Sumatoria. Here. Thank you. Councilmember Breyer has not joined us yet. I'm sure she will join us shortly. Councilmember Robinson, would you please lead us in the flag salute? Yes. Please stand if you're able. There you go. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation, under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Thank you so much. We do have four proclamation. We love the advocacy, but we will ask you to make your remarks to be limited to a total three minutes per proclamation, regardless of the number of speakers. The first one is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. It's going to be read by Councilmember Sumataverio. Bolivar Choi. If you are in the audience, please come and sit on the table, and we will hear your comments after Councilmember Sumaterial is going to be done. Please go ahead. Thank you, Mayor. Whereas the City of Bellevue takes pride on recognizing May 2026 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, AA and HPI Heritage Month, honoring the many generations of AA and HPI individuals whose cultures, contributions, and legacy have shaped Bellevue and enriched communities across the nation. And whereas since its official designation in 1992, AA and HPI Heritage Month has provided an opportunity to celebrate the vibrant and diverse AA and HPI communities, representing a wide range of countries, islands, languages, and living experiences. And whereas this year's recognition highlights the continued leadership, resilience, and contributions of AA and HPI individuals who are shaping our communities, strengthening our economy, and advancing opportunities for future generations. And whereas AA and NHPI communities have faced and continue to confront discrimination, exclusion, and xenophobia, yet remain powerful force of advocacy, cultural expression, and progress in Bellevue and beyond. And whereas Bellevue is home to a thriving and growing ANHPI population whose achievements in education, science, government, arts, commerce, and civic life continue to enrich and strengthen our city. And whereas the city of Bellevue remains committed to fostering opportunity, equity, and inclusion for all residents, while uplifting the voices, leaderships, and contributions of our ANPI neighbors. Now, therefore, I Claire Sumatibaria, on behalf of Mo Malakutan, Mayor of Bellevue, Washington, and the City Council do hereby proclaim May 2026 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Metro. In Bellevue, and encourage all residents to learn from and celebrate the leadership, resident resilience, and cultural heritage of the AA and HPI community, both past and present. Thank you, please. Good evening, Mayor and Council members. Thank you to the recognition for the AA and PI Heritage Month. I'm honored to accept this programming on behalf of CIC and the many AA and HPI families we serve. Accepting this proclamation is meaningful to me.