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Record of Proceedings

Redmond City Council Business Meeting – May 5, 2026 – Proclamations, Public Comments, and Consent Agenda Approval

City Council — Tuesday, May 5, 2026
BodyRedmond, Washington
SessionCity Council
DateTuesday, May 5, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
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0:20

I'm calling this meeting to order.

0:22

This is a regular business meeting of the Redmond City Council held on Tuesday, May 5th, 2026, commencing at 7 o'clock PM.

0:29

I will call roll, starting with Council President Stewart.

0:33

Here.

0:33

Council Vice President Nueva Kamina.

0:35

Here.

0:36

Councilmember Forsyth.

0:37

Councilmember Kritzer.

0:38

Here.

0:39

Councilmember Parsi.

0:40

Here.

0:40

Councilmember Pakrea.

0:42

Here.

0:42

Councilmember Sony.

0:45

The first item on the agenda is a proclamation for the Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

0:51

Whereas the City of Redmond is proud to recognize May 2026 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander, or AANHPI Heritage Month, celebrating the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of people of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander descent.

1:10

And whereas AANHPI communities represent a vibrant and diverse array of cultures, languages, and traditions that have shaped the social, economic and cultural fabric of Redmond and the United States.

1:22

And whereas the observance of AA and HPI Heritage Month originated from the efforts of efforts to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States in May 1843 and the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in May 1869, which was built in large part by Chinese immigrant laborers.

1:42

And whereas AA and HPI individuals have made and continue to make significant contributions in infrastructure and labor, technology and innovation, economic impact, academic scientific leadership, legal and social justice, arts and labor movements, and whereas the 2026 national theme for AA and HPI Heritage Month is power in unity, strengthening communities together.

2:05

This theme emphasizes leveraging collective strength, storytelling, and building bridges across diverse populations to foster resilience and connection.

2:13

And whereas this month provides an opportunity for all residents to learn about, reflect upon, and celebrate the cultural heritage, resilience, and ongoing contributions of AA and HPI communities.

2:24

Now, therefore, I Angela Burney, mayor of the City of Redmond, Washington to hereby proclaim May 2026 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Redmond, and encourage all residents to participate in activities and celebrations that honor the history, culture, and contributions of AA and HPI communities.

2:42

And with that, I'm really excited this year to have two of our council members accept this proclamation for the city.

2:51

We have Council Member Sony and Council Member Prakria both to accept this, and both after we take a picture, we'll uh say a few words.

2:59

So let's get a picture.

3:12

And celebrate the cultural heritage resilience and thank you, Mayor and fellow council members.

3:30

Uh, for the proclamation recognizing Asian American Ditian Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

3:37

It is truly an honor to receive this, not just as an Asian American, but also as the first naturalized citizen to serve on the Redmond City Council.

3:46

AENHBI communities represent our incredible diversity.

3:51

Over 24 million people in the United States speaking hundreds of languages with stories that span generations, cultures, and journeys.

3:59

Yet behind these numbers are individuals who have contributed quality and power, who have uh contributed quietly and powerfully to building our nation and our city.

4:10

Redmond is a reflection of that story with over 45% of foreign born population.

4:17

Our community is enriched by immigrants, first generation families and those who have chosen this city as home, bringing innovation, culture, entrepreneurship, and resilience.

4:28

From small businesses to technology, from arts to education, AA and HPI communities are deeply woven into the fabric of Redmond.

4:38

But this month is not just about celebration, it is about recognition and responsibility.

4:45

Recognition of the contributions that are often unseen and a responsibility to building a community where everyone feels where they belong.

4:54

As someone who chose this country as my home, I deeply value what it means to be included, to have a voice and to serve.

5:02

Let this month be a reminder that our diversity is not just something we celebrate, it is our strength.

5:09

Thank you so much.

5:22

This is a time to recognize the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities that have helped shape both our city and the world.

5:38

With more than 40% of our city comprising of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities.

5:45

And as an Indian American myself, I'm part of this community.

5:58

They fell in love with the greenery.

6:00

They fell in love with the biking trails.

6:05

And I love this community so much that I decided to run for a spot on my local city council.

6:11

I also just want to take a moment to recognize that diversity that exists within all of the AA and HPI communities.

6:21

And when we lift up everyone, our community grows as a whole.

6:25

So thank you.

6:26

And once again, it's an honor to give and accept this proclamation.

6:37

Thank you both so much.

6:38

It's really exciting to have you up here to accept this.

6:42

The next item on the agenda is a proclamation for National Police Week.

6:46

Whereas National Police Week was established in 1962 by John F.

6:50

Kennedy to honor law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and to recognize the service and sacrifice of those who continue to protect our communities.

6:59

And whereas the City of Redmond, it recognizes the dedicated men and women of the Redmond Police Department who faithfully serve and protect our community with courage, vigilance, and a deep commitment to public safety.

7:09

And whereas law enforcement officers serve on the front lines of public safety, often facing unpredictable and dangerous situations, and are called upon to respond to emergencies, prevent and investigate crime, support victims, and assist individuals experiencing crisis with professionalism and compassion.

7:27

And whereas the work of policing requires not only strength and resolve, but also empathy, sound judgment, and a commitment to fairness, equity, and accountability in all interactions with the community.

7:37

And whereas the City of Redmond values the partnerships between its police department and the community, recognizing that public safety is strengthened through trust, transparency, and collaboration with residents, businesses, and community organizations.

7:50

And whereas we honor and remember those law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and we recognize the profound loss borne by their families, friends, and fellow officers whose support and resilience sustain their legacy.

8:02

And whereas National Police Week provides an opportunity for all residents to express gratitude for the service of law enforcement personnel and to reflect on the importance of public safety in maintaining a vibrant and thriving community.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural████████████████████████████████32%
Community Engagement███████████████15%
Public Engagement███████7%
Mental Health Awareness███████7%
Tourism Promotion███████7%
Youth Programs██████6%
Noise Ordinance████4%
Public Safety████4%
Tenant Protections████4%
Summary of Proceedings

Redmond City Council Business Meeting – May 5, 2026

The Redmond City Council held a regular business meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included three proclamations (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month; National Police Week; Older Americans Month), public comments from ten in-person speakers and one remote speaker, unanimous approval of the consent agenda (seven items), ombudsperson and committee reports, and two executive sessions. The council authorized the mayor to execute a purchase and sale agreement for real property for a new maintenance and operations center.

Proclamations

  • The council proclaimed May 2026 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Redmond. Councilmembers Sony and Prakriya accepted the proclamation, noting that over 40% of Redmond residents are part of these communities.
  • The council proclaimed May 10–16, 2026 as National Police Week. Deputy Coates accepted on behalf of the Redmond Police Department, expressing gratitude for community support.
  • The council proclaimed May 2026 as Older Americans Month with the theme "Champion Your Health." Four awards were presented: to Evergreen Health Horizons for its wellness program; to senior volunteer Sadru (absent); to Sylvia Burnour, director of the senior chorus; and to Steve Hutek, chorus booking agent and sound technician.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Nathan Gibbs (President, Interlake Sporting Association) thanked councilmembers for dialogue since January and invited remaining council members to visit the club. He requested a seat at the May 26 study session.
  • Peter Jarvis (ISA member) stated that sound-mitigation technology is proven and that ISA is prepared to invest up to $1 million to upgrade the facility, pending regulatory certainty. He requested a policy commitment to allow the investment.
  • Aaron Hamilton advocated for hiring an additional Mental Health Professional (MHP) for the Redmond Police Department, expressing concern that the second MHP position is on hold despite being budgeted. He opposed outsourcing mental health services to third parties.
  • Ruth Knote (Marrymore neighborhood resident) presented a petition with 500+ signatures opposing the city's two-hour parking program in the neighborhood, arguing it causes harm and lacks community input. She asked council to reconsider.
  • Wolf Adriatico criticized the council's handling of the Old Firehouse Teen Center, stating that the council ignored public requests to draft a design before demolition. He urged the council to follow through on promises for youth engagement.
  • Rosemary Ives (former mayor, 1992–2007, founder of the Old Firehouse Teen Center) requested that the council reconsider the demolition contract until a public plan and timeline for a new teen center are agreed upon. She emphasized the need for youth outreach and brainstorming, citing the extensive preparation done before the original teen center opened in 1994.
  • David Morton commented on PFAS contamination of Redmond's drinking water wells. He noted that the city recently expanded a contract for groundwater monitoring and urged testing at the DTG recycle site (former Allwood Recycling), where a major fire in 2013 may have involved PFAS-based firefighting foam. He warned that a single five-gallon pail of foam could contaminate 39,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
  • Linda Seltzer (Jewish resident) requested that May also be recognized as Jewish American History Month, stating that the council's AANHPI proclamation excluded Jewish Americans. She read a proclamation she authored and described anti-Semitic incidents in history.
  • Gordon Chen and Sean Enns did not appear when called.
  • Remote speaker (name not given) cautioned the council on the choice of architect and contractor for the new teen center, requesting honest communication about honoring the legacy of the original firehouse and a detailed timeline.

Consent Calendar

  • Approved unanimously (7-0) the following items:
    1. Minutes of the April 21, 2026 Regular Meeting.
    2. Payroll and claims checks for April 24 and May 5, 2026.
    3. Acceptance of the Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Program (CHIP) Grant and approval to contract with Bellwether Housing.
    4. Parks Department web configuration contract with D2 Creative in the amount of $141,900.
    5. Ordinance No. 3258 approving the 2025–2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement for Redmond Fire Fighters Union #2829 (I.A.F.F.) and amending the pay plan.
    6. Ordinance No. 3259 approving the final plat of Belcaro.
    7. Resolution No. 1627 amending the school speed zone infraction penalty for automated traffic cameras.

Ombudsperson Reports

  • Councilmember Kritzer (April ombuds): Reported feedback on the Old Firehouse Teen Center, library board updates, proposed comprehensive plan amendment, community engagement for the budget, sidewalk/bike lane requests, parking restrictions in Marymoor neighborhood, service-led transit outreach, tech issues with video feed, and requests for tenant protections. She noted that the tenant protection subcommittee met and that staff received requests to recognize Middle Eastern and North African American Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month.
  • Councilmember Forsyth (May ombuds): Received feedback on a community vigil, Lime scooters blocking wheelchair access, noise ordinance changes (pro and con), historic newspapers in the Old Firehouse walls, and pedestrian safety. She apologized for delayed responses.

Committee Reports

  • Councilmember Forsyth (East Trail Committee): Reported that the East Way Greenway Alliance has been removed from the RAC after fulfilling its role. The committee discussed the future vision for the next 10 years, with Redmond's section of the trail complete. The Planning and Public Works Committee approved contracts, discussed land use zoning, and received a briefing on noise standard amendments and the design-build delivery method for the teen center.
  • Councilmember Prakriya (Tenant Protection Subcommittee): Reported that the subcommittee elected him as chair, formulated a list of proposals, and met with the city attorney and planning director to develop a work plan and stakeholder engagement process. A study session is expected in summer 2026.
  • Councilmember Kritzer (Lodging Tax Advisory Committee): The LTAC decided to send a memo to the Tourism Promotion Area (TPA) board requesting co-funding for tourism investments. The TPA is considering the proposal. Discussions also touched on developing a Destination Management Organization (DMO). She also reported on Hopelink’s management agreement with a teen housing association to operate affordable housing properties.
  • Councilmember Nuevacamina (Alternative Crisis Response Subcommittee): Reported that the subcommittee identified gaps in mental health support, including lack of juvenile support outside of business hours (Monday–Friday, 9–5). The RACER program is not expected to expand; Redmond may need to create its own program. County partnerships are positive but insufficient. The positions on hold remain in the budget.
  • Council President Stuart (Statewide Legislative Priorities Committee): Reported that the committee discussed progressive revenue tools for cities, including alternatives to sales tax increases. She also noted that the Public Issues Committee will consider a response letter on King County’s proposed sewer rate increase of 12.75% per year for six years, and a statement on the Sound Transit Enterprise Initiative. She also reported on Sound Transit 3’s $34.5 billion deficit, noting that the East Link extension (4 Line) to Kirkland and Issaquah is likely delayed by 5–6 years but is retained.

Key Outcomes

  • Consent agenda approved unanimously (7-0).
  • Authorization for real property acquisition: The council voted 7-0 to authorize the mayor to execute a purchase and sale agreement for real property for the construction of a new maintenance and operations center. The vote followed a 20-minute executive session on real estate acquisition. A follow-up is expected in two weeks.
  • Executive session on potential litigation: The council held a 15-minute executive session on potential litigation; no action was taken.

Next Steps

  • The council will hold a study session on May 26, 2026, where Interlake Sporting Association has requested a seat to discuss ongoing issues.
  • A public hearing on interim official control related to delivery drone land uses is scheduled for June 2, 2026.
  • The council will continue to develop a timeline for the Old Firehouse Teen Center replacement and will provide additional community engagement, including a neighborhood conversation at Idlewood Park on May 21, 2026 (5–7 PM).
  • The tenant protection subcommittee will bring proposals to the full council in a study session, likely in summer 2026.
  • The LTAC will finalize its tourism budget after the TPA board responds to the co-funding proposal.

Meeting Transcript

I'm calling this meeting to order. This is a regular business meeting of the Redmond City Council held on Tuesday, May 5th, 2026, commencing at 7 o'clock PM. I will call roll, starting with Council President Stewart. Here. Council Vice President Nueva Kamina. Here. Councilmember Forsyth. Councilmember Kritzer. Here. Councilmember Parsi. Here. Councilmember Pakrea. Here. Councilmember Sony. The first item on the agenda is a proclamation for the Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Whereas the City of Redmond is proud to recognize May 2026 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander, or AANHPI Heritage Month, celebrating the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of people of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander descent. And whereas AANHPI communities represent a vibrant and diverse array of cultures, languages, and traditions that have shaped the social, economic and cultural fabric of Redmond and the United States. And whereas the observance of AA and HPI Heritage Month originated from the efforts of efforts to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States in May 1843 and the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in May 1869, which was built in large part by Chinese immigrant laborers. And whereas AA and HPI individuals have made and continue to make significant contributions in infrastructure and labor, technology and innovation, economic impact, academic scientific leadership, legal and social justice, arts and labor movements, and whereas the 2026 national theme for AA and HPI Heritage Month is power in unity, strengthening communities together. This theme emphasizes leveraging collective strength, storytelling, and building bridges across diverse populations to foster resilience and connection. And whereas this month provides an opportunity for all residents to learn about, reflect upon, and celebrate the cultural heritage, resilience, and ongoing contributions of AA and HPI communities. Now, therefore, I Angela Burney, mayor of the City of Redmond, Washington to hereby proclaim May 2026 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Redmond, and encourage all residents to participate in activities and celebrations that honor the history, culture, and contributions of AA and HPI communities. And with that, I'm really excited this year to have two of our council members accept this proclamation for the city. We have Council Member Sony and Council Member Prakria both to accept this, and both after we take a picture, we'll uh say a few words. So let's get a picture. And celebrate the cultural heritage resilience and thank you, Mayor and fellow council members. Uh, for the proclamation recognizing Asian American Ditian Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. It is truly an honor to receive this, not just as an Asian American, but also as the first naturalized citizen to serve on the Redmond City Council. AENHBI communities represent our incredible diversity. Over 24 million people in the United States speaking hundreds of languages with stories that span generations, cultures, and journeys. Yet behind these numbers are individuals who have contributed quality and power, who have uh contributed quietly and powerfully to building our nation and our city. Redmond is a reflection of that story with over 45% of foreign born population. Our community is enriched by immigrants, first generation families and those who have chosen this city as home, bringing innovation, culture, entrepreneurship, and resilience. From small businesses to technology, from arts to education, AA and HPI communities are deeply woven into the fabric of Redmond. But this month is not just about celebration, it is about recognition and responsibility. Recognition of the contributions that are often unseen and a responsibility to building a community where everyone feels where they belong. As someone who chose this country as my home, I deeply value what it means to be included, to have a voice and to serve. Let this month be a reminder that our diversity is not just something we celebrate, it is our strength. Thank you so much. This is a time to recognize the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities that have helped shape both our city and the world. With more than 40% of our city comprising of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. And as an Indian American myself, I'm part of this community. They fell in love with the greenery. They fell in love with the biking trails. And I love this community so much that I decided to run for a spot on my local city council. I also just want to take a moment to recognize that diversity that exists within all of the AA and HPI communities. And when we lift up everyone, our community grows as a whole. So thank you. And once again, it's an honor to give and accept this proclamation. Thank you both so much.

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