Public Meetings - North Bend, Washington

On November 3, 2026, the North Bend City Council met at 7:00 PM at City Hall. Mayor Mary Miller presided, with five council members present (Councilmembers Jocelyn and Torgeson absent and excused). The meeting included proclamations, a presentation, public hearings, and action on multiple agenda items. All consent calendar items and most main agenda items were approved unanimously, except for a criminal justice tax ordinance which was tabled to June 2027. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved: October 20, 2026 meeting minutes; payroll warrants 79655–79658 totaling $406,523.52; checks 79659–79719 totaling $1,003,341.17; Resolution AB26-099 accepting the SR-202 Sidewalk Gap Project; Ordinance AB26-100 amending NBMC 14.12.130(B) for floodplain management; Motion AB26-101 authorizing a contract with Otak for city project review; Motion AB26-102 authorizing a contract with G&O for design of the South Fork Lift Station Rehabilitation Project. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during audience participation, either in person or online. Proclamations - Encompass Day Proclamation: Mayor Miller proclaimed November 9, 2026 as Encompass Day in Carnation, Duvall, North Bend, and Snoqualmie, celebrating Encompass’s 60th anniversary. Nella Cunningham, Executive Director, accepted and outlined a strategic goal to serve every child in the valley needing pediatric therapy or early learning by 2030, estimating an additional 1,000 children per year. - Gold Star Families City Proclamation: Mayor Miller designated North Bend as a Gold Star Families City. Monica and Patricia, representatives of Gold Star Families of Washington, spoke about the importance of the designation and their personal connections to North Bend. Presentation - Empower Youth Network: Executive Director Helene Wentink presented the organization’s work in youth suicide prevention (559 middle school students in North Bend received “How to Help a Friend” training in 2026), substance use prevention (755 North Bend students exposed to campaigns), mentoring (30 youth in North Bend with mentors, 25 adult mentors from the city), youth engagement activities, and resource coordination (10 North Bend families served in 2026). Council commended the shift from fear-based to health-focused messaging. Discussion Items - AB26-103 – Criminal Justice Tax (0.1% Sales Tax): Finance Director Martin Chaw introduced an ordinance to impose a 0.1% criminal justice sales tax, estimated to generate $330,000 annually to partially offset rising police costs (from $2.8 million in 2025 to $5.1 million by 2028). Councilmember McFarland moved to table the ordinance to the second council meeting in June 2027, citing the need to evaluate other pending tax measures (levy lid lift, fire services RFA). The motion passed unanimously. - AB26-104 – Meadowbrook ULID No. 7 Bond Anticipation Note Refinance: Deputy Finance Director Elaine Morse and bond counsel Deanna Gregory explained the refinancing of a $1.2 million design bond anticipation note and a $7.5 million construction note into one note at a fixed rate of 5.60%, extending maturity to September 1, 2027. The ordinance was approved unanimously on first and final reading. - AB26-105 – 2026 Comprehensive Plan Amendments: Planning Director Mike McCarty presented amendments to the parks element (new multi-use trail standard, policy revisions) and capital facilities element (updated police contract, functional plan updates). These elements had been adopted by resolution earlier (Resolution 2191 on August 18 and Resolution 2198 on October 6). The ordinance adopting the amendments was approved unanimously. - AB26-106 – 710 Pump Station Stream Restoration Design Contract: Public Works Director Tom Mohr described storm damage in December 2025 that caused erosion behind the 710 pump station. A contract with Gray & Osborne for design services (not to exceed $382,874, with 75% FEMA reimbursement) was recommended. Initial emergency repairs were completed. Council also noted that staff will contact DNR regarding potential sedimentation from logging. The motion was approved unanimously. Mayor, Council & Administrator Concerns - Councilmember McFarland urged vigilance in election counting. - Councilmember Elwood reported that Eastside Fire & Rescue covers 80% of technical rescue calls and received over 1,100 applicants for 14 positions; crime at the outlet mall is down 60%; and Chief Hall introduced the Blue Bridge program allowing officers to use donated funds on debit cards to assist people in need. - Councilmember Cullen thanked Jennifer Kirk for her work at Reclaim, a shelter service for the Snoqualmie Valley. - Councilmember Restick highlighted a Seattle Times article on unintended consequences of affordable housing policies in Seattle. - Mayor Pro Tem Tremulata reminded residents to prepare for winter storms and support local businesses. - Administrator Amber Emory announced a fall emergency management town hall on winter preparedness. - Mayor Miller announced the third annual Holiday Window Fest (Nov 13), the Friends of the North Bend Library holiday bazaar (Nov 21), and encouraged clearing storm drains. She thanked staff and shared that 125 fourth graders visited city hall. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar and all main agenda items except AB26-103 were approved unanimously. - AB26-103 (criminal justice tax) was tabled to the second council meeting in June 2027. - AB26-104 (bond refinance), AB26-105 (comprehensive plan amendments), and AB26-106 (pump station design contract) were approved on first and final reading. - FEMA will reimburse 75% of the $382,874 design cost for the 710 pump station restoration.

The North Bend City Council met in workstudy on October 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 920 SE Cedar Falls Way, to continue the 2027-2028 biennial budget discussion. Mr. Chaw led the presentation, covering the General Fund, rainy day reserves, utility rates and debt, and the Capital Improvement Plan. No public comment was taken, consistent with the workstudy practice, and no formal votes were taken. Discussion Items General Fund: service levels and long-term context - Mr. Chaw recapped the first workstudy, including General Fund forecasts, Regional Fire Authority options, and levy options, before moving into a deeper review of service levels. - The city’s service area was described as about 8,700 residents inside North Bend plus about 8,400 residents in surrounding unincorporated areas, serving a total of about 17,000 people. Councilmembers noted that nonresidents use city roads, infrastructure, and emergency services without directly paying property taxes for them, and discussed the policy implications for annexation, use taxes, and levy decisions. - From 2017 to 2026, the city’s population grew by 32 percent while city FTE grew by 9 percent. Councilmembers said this illustrated doing more with less, with one councilmember describing the city’s “check engine light” being on. Council asked staff to explore additional department-level service metrics, but directed that deeper analysis be brought back next year rather than during the current budget cycle. - The General Fund budget is $33.5 million over the biennium, divided into six categories: mandatory/regulatory services 11 percent; life safety 50 percent; revenue-generating services 17 percent; community services 8 percent; internal policy support 6 percent; and remaining internal operations. Closing the projected gap with reductions only would require about $2.7 million per year, or $5.5 million over the biennium, and would fall first on community services and internal operations. - East Side Fire & Rescue Chief Aho told the city that the original budget request for a new aid/ALS unit at Station 87, including 12 FTEs and costing about $2 million per year, was cut by the fire district board. As a result, the station is cross-staffed and simultaneous major incidents would require mutual aid. - Police Chief Hall discussed pressures from I-90-related transient crime and from outlet mall corporate policies that delay calls to police. Councilmembers expressed interest in exploring a public safety sales tax and in holding large retailers more accountable for the public safety costs caused by delayed loss-prevention calls. - Councilmembers also discussed the proposed community/economic development position. One councilmember argued that eliminating the new position would effectively eliminate sponsored events unless the city contracted them separately; another councilmember noted the city could choose to fund events as it did in 2026. Rainy day reserves (Fund 002) - Mr. Chaw proposed six policies for the General Fund operating reserve, Fund 002, which has a balance of about $1.2 million and was described as roughly 10 percent of the General Fund. The proposed policies were: council approval required; use limited to one-time expenses; a minimum fund balance floor of $1 million; a replenishment plan if the fund drops below the floor; sweeping excess General Fund balance into the reserve; and no upper limit on the reserve. - Councilmembers supported council approval and one-time-use restrictions, but recommended that the floor be a percentage of the General Fund rather than a fixed $1 million amount. Several councilmembers opposed the no-upper-limit approach, saying every dollar should have a job and the reserve should not become a high-yield savings account. Staff planned to codify revised reserve policies as part of budget adoption. Utilities - Stormwater rates were adjusted through 2030 by Ordinance 1839, and water and sewer rates were adjusted through 2030 by Ordinances 1849 and 1850. All three utilities assume 2 to 2.5 percent annual growth. The rate studies include a new water field worker in 2027, a stormwater engineer in 2028, and two additional stormwater positions in 2029 and 2030. - Staff recommended removing the 2028 stormwater engineer position from the budget assumptions until the city is closer to the 10,000-population threshold for federal NPDES/MS4 requirements, saying staff will bring it back if the Department of Ecology requires it earlier. - The sewer utility carries revenue bonds for the treatment plant and CER improvements financed through a bond anticipation note; a refinancing ordinance will come to council on November 3. Mr. Chaw also gave a preview of ULID 7, involving about $9 million in revenue bonds for Mountain Park area sewer improvements, with assessments placed on improved properties after completion. - Councilmembers discussed ongoing sewer rate pressure, the high cost of King County sewer rates, and the need to monitor bond repayment through 2050. Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) dashboard - Stephanie, the city’s senior GIS analyst, demonstrated a new interactive CIP dashboard for the 2027-2032 proposed CIP. It maps projects, filters by project type and year, shows budget amounts, and includes charts and detail pop-ups. The example shown included the South Fork levy setback project with $10 million proposed in 2032; the 2029 project list was estimated at $36.6 million. - Councilmembers requested additions, including grant-funded amounts, a public-accessible version, project status/development timelines, and links to past council approvals. Staff said they would incorporate feedback and roll the tool out to council. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the workstudy provided direction for the budget adoption process. - Council generally affirmed the service levels and spending in the proposed 2027-2028 budget book, with no consensus to cut major programs. - Staff will refine the rainy day reserve policy using a percentage-based floor and an upper limit, with council approval and one-time-use restrictions. - Staff will delay the 2028 stormwater FTE unless federal/state requirements force earlier action. - The CIP dashboard will be updated with grant funding data and public access, and further layers will be explored. - Mayor acknowledged remote participation problems and said the city’s meeting technology would be fixed.

The City Council met on October 20, 2026, to conduct several public hearings on the 2027-2028 biennial budget, property tax levy, criminal justice tax, and the water system plan, along with receiving committee reports and public testimony. All consent agenda items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes from the October 6, 2026 City Council meeting and September 22, 2026 Workstudy. - Payroll: Approved payroll for October 5, 2026 (checks 79576-79581) totaling $415,480.05. - Checks: Approved checks for October 20, 2026 (checks 79582-79654) totaling $3,495,957.58. - Resolution AB26-093: Accepting the 5th, 6th & Main Improvements Project. - Motion AB26-094: Authorizing the PSE Schedule 74 Agreement for the North Bend Way/NW 8th Street Roundabout Project. Public Comments & Testimony - Julia Dresh (owner of Jurege International LLC, a licensed cannabis retailer) expressed interest in opening a cannabis retail store in North Bend at the Mount Side Tavern site. She stated the site meets all Washington state buffer requirements and requested the city's support for a development agreement. Dresh noted the city previously issued her a development agreement that fell through and highlighted potential local jobs, increased foot traffic, and excise tax revenue as benefits. No other public comments were made. Discussion Items Commission & Committee Reports - Transportation & Public Works (TPW): Councilmember Colin reported the committee discussed a bill of sale for Gravity Marine, Middle Fork DEA, project closeout for 5th/6th/Main improvements, PSE Schedule 74 and 51 agreements for 2026 sidewalk gaps, a water comp plan public hearing, and the South Fork Lift Station pre-design report. - Public Health & Safety: Canceled; an e-bike/e-motorcycle town hall was held on October 6. - Community & Economic Development (CED): Councilmember Dawson reported the committee discussed a lot splitting driveway exemption, 2026 comprehensive plan amendments, parking regulations, an OTEC on-call contract renewal, and positive economic development activity. - Finance: Councilmember Rustic reported the committee reviewed items on tonight's agenda (biennial budget, property tax levy, criminal justice tax) plus an August 2026 budget status report and human services/cultural arts grant policy. - City Commissions: James Henderson reported the Planning Commission will meet November 4 on housing affordability code amendments; the Parks Commission will meet October 28 on the Bike North Bend plan; the Economic Development Commission discussed the Creative Economy Action Plan, Project Belay, and workforce housing options. - Regional Committees: - East Side Fire & Rescue (ESFR): The board approved a modified 2027-2028 budget with a 11.86% increase for North Bend in 2027 and 13.48% in 2028, capped overtime at $5 million, and required an independent review of tools and processes. - Sound Cities Association (SCA) Public Issues Committee: Councilmember Rustic attended a presentation on King County elections and discussions on affordable housing, transit safety, and the 2027 legislative agenda. 2027-2028 Biennial Budget (AB26-095) - Presentation: Finance Director Martin Chaw presented the proposed $179.0 million biennial budget (down from $221.1 million in 2025-2026 due to CIP timing). The general fund is budgeted at $33.5 million with no new FTEs in the general fund; three additional FTEs (water field worker, stormwater engineer, economic development marketing manager) are outside the general fund and funded by other sources. - Key Challenges: Public safety costs (police and fire) are projected to rise from $5.3 million in 2026 to $7.9 million in 2028, a $2.6 million increase. General fund reserves are forecast to decline from $5 million in 2026 to $656,000 in 2028, below the policy target of $2.39 million. - Proposed Solutions: Imposing a 0.1% criminal justice sales tax ($330,000/year), creating a regional fire authority (RFA) with Eastside Fire & Rescue and Fire District 38, or a property tax levy lid lift (estimated 73 cents per $1,000 assessed value, about $67/month for a $1.1 million home). A combination of a levy lift and the sales tax could restore reserves to $3.4 million. - Budget Priorities: Sustainable public safety funding, $144.1 million six-year CIP (62% grant-funded), economic development (including Wyndham Hotel, Panatoni industrial park, Cascade Gateway truck stop, Project Belay), and sustainable human services (2% of general fund) and cultural arts (0.4%) funding. - Public Hearing: Opened and continued to the December 1, 2026 meeting. Motion to continue passed unanimously. 2027 Property Tax Levy (AB26-096) - Presentation: The annual ordinance sets the 2027 property tax levy at $0.79 per $1,000 assessed value (regular levy) plus a $0.01 excess levy for fire station 87 bonds (final year). The 1% increase generates approximately $30,000. For a $1.1 million home, the city share is about $880/year (9% of total property tax bill). - Public Hearing: Opened and continued to the November 17, 2026 meeting. Motion to continue passed unanimously. Criminal Justice Tax (AB26-097) - Presentation: Ordinance establishes a 0.1% sales tax (dime on $100 purchase) to fund criminal justice purposes. Estimated annual revenue of $330,000, partially offsetting rising police costs (from $2.8 million in 2025 to $5.1 million in 2028). If approved, the city’ssales tax rate would rise from 1.4% to1.5%, total citywide from 9.2% to 9.3%. Thetax can be adopted by council vote until June 30, 2028; after that, a public vote is required. King County has already imposed its own 0.1% and cannot add further under current law. - Public Hearing: Opened and continued to the November 3, 2026 meeting. Motion to continue passed unanimously. 2026 Water System Plan (AB26-098) - Presentation: Don DeBerg presented the updated water system plan, approved by the state for a five-year period. Key changes include removal of the National Guard parcel from the water service area (developer chose Salal Water), addition of Salal interties, climate change analysis, updated growth projections confirming adequate water rights through 20 years, and updated water system model with CIP adjustments. The plan was reviewed by DOH, Ecology, and King County, with comments addressed. Comments from the Snoqualmie and Tulalip Tribes requested updates to the mitigation algorithm and operations/monitoring plan; the city is working on that and will amend the plan later. Public involvement included a hearing. - Public Hearing: Opened and closed. Ordinance adopted unanimously as first and final reading. Mayor, Council & Administrator Concerns - Councilmember Colin reminded residents about increased wildlife activity (deer, elk) as nights darken. - Councilmember Rustic encouraged voting by November 3, noting ballot drop boxes at North Bend Library and registration deadlines. - Councilmember Jocelyn thanked Finance Director Chaw for his work on the budget. - Councilmember McFarland urged voting and expressed concern about election security and threats to democracy. - City Administrator Emory announced upcoming budget work sessions (October 27, November 17, December 1) and the launch of a new permitting system (Cloud Permits) on October 19. - Mayor Pro Tem Tremulana announced Trick or Treat Street on October 24, the Sideview Harvest Festival, and Police Chief Ed Hall’s library visit on October 27. He also commented on the recent school shooting in Bend, Oregon, calling for nonpartisan action. - The council then moved into executive session to discuss potential litigation (RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)) for up to 15 minutes. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items approved unanimously. - All four public hearings (budget, property tax levy, criminal justice tax, water system plan) were opened; the water system plan was adopted as final; the other three were continued to future meetings (November 3, November 17, and December 1, 2026). - All motions carried unanimously. - A new water plan was adopted, and progress was made toward addressing general fund shortfalls through proposed revenue measures.

The North Bend City Council held a special workstudy on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, starting at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The sole agenda item was a 90-minute presentation and discussion on the 2027-2028 biennial budget, focusing on the General Fund forecast, financial sustainability, and potential options including a Regional Fire Authority (RFA) and a levy lid lift. No public comment was permitted, as is typical for workstudies. All council members were present: Brendan Ellwood, Costline, Robin, McPhee Rustic, and Suzanne Torreson. The presentation was led by Finance Director Martin Chaw, with contributions from Mayor Amber and other staff. Discussion Items - Guiding Principles for the General Fund: Staff outlined six principles: maintaining existing service levels, no new staff or programs in the General Fund, continued fire and police services (50% of the budget), prioritizing economic development, collaborating with interjurisdictional partners, and continuing administrative cost reductions begun in 2025 (totaling $2.5 million over six years). Council noted that police and fire contracts are largely locked in, though service-level adjustments remain possible through renegotiation. - Financial Forecast (2026-2032): A baseline forecast showed the General Fund balanced only through 2028, with fund balance falling below target in 2029 and negative by 2032 if no action is taken. This assumes a new criminal justice sales tax (estimated $330,000/year starting 2027) but no RFA or levy lid lift. Expenses, particularly police (10–11% annual increases) and fire (12.9% negotiated for the biennium, down from an initial 18%), are outpacing revenue growth constrained by the 1% property tax cap. - Scenario Analysis: Three scenarios were presented: 1. RFA: Shifts fire costs to a new authority, restoring fund balance to $6.3 million by 2032. Fire benefit charges (up to 60% of RFA funding) could reallocate costs from residential to commercial properties based on risk. Requires a 60% vote if a fire benefit charge is included; otherwise a simple majority. 2. Levy Lid Lift: A $0.68 per $1,000 increase (roughly 90% of the current $0.77 rate) would close the gap and maintain fund balance near target through 2032. This requires a simple majority vote and can be adjusted annually. The state now allows a 10-year approval window (previously six years). 3. Combination or Higher Levy: An $0.80 per $1,000 rate would achieve the same 2032 fund balance as the RFA scenario. - Community Impact: Staff presented examples for residential and commercial properties. For a typical home (1.2 million assessed value, paying $900/year currently), the levy lid lift would add $907/year, while the RFA with a 60% fire benefit charge could reduce the total fire-related cost. Commercial properties (e.g., Nintendo, Safeway, McDonald’s) would see higher charges under a fire benefit charge, potentially impacting business costs. Nonprofits like the North Bend Theater and food bank could petition for reductions. - Timeline and Next Steps: The RFA planning committee will report to council by the end of 2026, with a decision on whether to proceed expected within 30–45 days. If council chooses RFA, joint resolutions must be filed by February 2027 for an April special election. A levy lid lift could follow a similar timeline. The next workstudy on October 27 will cover deeper General Fund details, utilities, and the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken. The council directed staff to continue developing both RFA and levy lid lift options for further discussion. - Council emphasized the need for robust public communication to explain the city’s fiscal challenges and the trade-offs between maintaining services, increasing revenue, or reducing service levels. - Staff will present additional data on service-level impacts, population service area, and utility fund interdependencies at the October 27 workstudy.

The North Bend City Council held a workstudy session on September 22, 2026, at City Hall, 920 SE Cedar Falls Way, beginning at 7 p.m. In keeping with past workstudy practice, no public comment was taken. The agenda had two discussion items: the Downtown Plaza & McClellan Street Improvements, and an ordinance amending NBMC Titles 17 and 20 to establish unit lot subdivision and lot splitting processes. No formal votes were taken; instead, council members gave staff direction on next steps. Downtown Plaza & McClellan Street Improvements - Mr. Mohr reviewed the 2023 Taylor parking master plan and the current pedestrian-only plaza design, now at 90% design. The design contract has about $20,000 of its $200,000 remaining, and construction is planned for June through September 2027. The plaza portion is estimated at roughly $900,000–$1,000,000, using local funds. - To mitigate construction impacts, staff proposed building the Ballard Avenue South parking project first, adding 21 permanent stalls, and temporarily paving the gravel area east of the railroad tracks for about 15 head-in parking stalls. Staff also proposed doing utility work at night and building the new sidewalk first. Current plaza-area parking totals about 11–12 spaces, so the combined replacement parking would be net positive. - Councilmember Torreson suggested doing McClellan Street improvements first, saying downtown parking should be expanded before plaza construction creates disruption. Several councilmembers, including Councilmember McFarland, disagreed with restructuring the timeline, noting the plaza project had been reviewed repeatedly over three or more years, was a repeated council priority, and was funded. Councilmember Russick said businesses' recent opposition justified further conversation; staff responded that a February 2025 open house had already raised parking concerns that led to added parking in the plan. - Staff also presented McClellan options. The $7–8 million McClellan alley project is about 30% designed and relies heavily on state and federal funding. Parking analysis showed about 72 existing McClellan-area spaces; retaining the double track would reduce the count to about 62, while removing an unused second track could add roughly 20 net spaces. Councilmembers clarified they did not support removing the active rail line serving the depot. Some councilmembers cited a potential net gain of about 42 spaces from McClellan and Ballard combined. Ordinance Amending NBMC Title 17 & 20 – Lot Splitting & Unit Lot Subdivision - Mr. McCarty and Caitlin explained that Senate Bill 5559 and House Bill 1096 require cities to allow unit lot subdivisions and administrative lot splits. The city's deadline to have these processes available is July 27, 2027. - Unit lot subdivisions would permit residential development on mini-lots within a parent lot, but would not increase the underlying density. The parent lot must meet setbacks, and all height, coverage, parking, landscaping, and design standards continue to apply. Examples include townhomes, cottages, ADUs, and single-family homes, but not stacked apartments. - Lot splitting would allow one division of a residential parent lot into two lots through a consolidated administrative review with public notice. Both resulting lots must independently meet all zoning requirements, and neither can be split again through this process. A boundary line adjustment remains possible if no nonconformity is created. - Staff described consequences of missing the deadline, including loss of eligibility for state grants—the city received $817,000 in state grants last year—and being forced to process applications without city-specific regulations. Staff also cited the Housing Accountability Act's "builder's remedy" as a risk if the state finds the city out of compliance on housing issues. - Council discussed an optional frontage improvement exemption for flag lots with 20 feet or less of frontage or an access easement. Some councilmembers thought the 20-foot threshold was too narrow and noted the city lacks a fee-in-lieu or bonding mechanism for frontage improvements. Council agreed to send that optional provision to CED for further discussion. Key Outcomes - No formal motions or votes were taken at the workstudy. - For the Downtown Plaza, council generally supported advancing the project. Staff will prepare a construction contract/agenda bill, include a clear construction mitigation plan, and address ADA parking availability. The McClellan project remains at 30% design with a funding gap and was not re-prioritized. - For the state-mandated ordinance, council directed staff to proceed with the required unit lot subdivision and lot splitting regulations, while peeling off the optional frontage improvement exemption for CED review. - Staff will aim to bring the required ordinance forward on an upcoming agenda so the processes are operational by the July 27, 2027 state deadline.

The North Bend City Council met on September 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM at City Hall, 920 SE Cedar Falls Way. Mayor Miller presided. Councilmembers Elwood, Joselyn, Koellen, Rustik, Torguson, and Tremolada were present; Councilmember McFarland was excused. The meeting included the consent calendar, committee reports, and introductions for five action items (AB26-081 through AB26-085), all of which passed unanimously by 6-0 votes. The meeting adjourned at 8:26 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved for the City Council Meeting of September 1, 2026, and the City Council Work Study of August 25, 2026. - Payroll: Approved for September 4, 2026, in the amount of $411,303.35. - AB26-079 / AB26-080 (Utility Rate Discounts): Approved ordinances amending the North Bend Municipal Code and the Taxes, Rates & Fees Schedule to provide a discounted residential utility rate for low-income senior citizens and disabled customers residing outside the city limits. - Item 3 (Checks): Councilmember Torguson pulled this item for discussion to confirm that a $7,500 quarterly payment to North Bend Art & Industry was included and properly authorized. Following clarification from the Deputy Finance Director, the item was approved 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments during the Audience Participation portion of the meeting. - No testimony was provided during the public hearing for Ordinance AB26-081 (School Impact Fees). Discussion Items - AB26-081: School Impact Fees Ordinance: Senior Planner Jamie Burrell introduced the ordinance. Ryan Stokes, Assistant Superintendent of the Snoqualmie Valley School District, presented the district's updated Capital Facilities Plan, which includes a rebuild of North Bend Elementary School. The new fee schedule responds to state law changes requiring six fee categories based on housing type and bedroom count, moving from an annual to a biennial update cycle. Fees for smaller single-family homes (2 bedrooms or less) will decrease under the new structure, while fees for larger homes (3+ bedrooms) will increase. Councilmembers engaged in significant deliberation. Councilmember Rustik confirmed the fees apply only to new development burdens. Councilmember Joselyn supported the “growth pays for growth” principle and stressed the need to advocate for future school bond measures. Councilmember Tremolada expressed skepticism about state growth management projections but supported the ordinance. Councilmember Torguson voiced concerns regarding the cumulative tax burden on residents but ultimately approved the measure. The motion passed 6-0. - AB26-082: SCORE Jail Services Interlocal Agreement Amendment: City Administrator Amber Emery presented a recommendation to shift the city’s primary misdemeanor jail booking from the City of Issaquah to SCORE. The city was paying approximately $25,000 per month for five guaranteed beds at Issaquah that were underutilized. Additionally, Issaquah frequently declined bookings for medical reasons, forcing officers to take detainees to the hospital and then to SCORE anyway, wasting significant staff time. The new agreement provides a lower daily rate ($78.75 vs. over $100) and robust virtual court services. The motion passed 6-0. The city will issue a 90-day notice to terminate the Issaquah contract. - AB26-083: FHWA RTCC Grant for North Bend Way / Mt Si Road Roundabout: Public Works Director Tom Mohr presented a resolution accepting a federal grant of just over $2 million for roundabout construction. The city’s match is $346,000, funded by transportation impact fees and transportation benefit district funds. Councilmember Elwood praised the favorable grant match ratio. Construction is planned for 2027 or 2028. The motion passed 6-0. - AB26-084: FHWA TAP Grant for Tanner Trail Extension: Public Works Director Mohr presented a resolution accepting a federal grant of just over $1.18 million to extend the Tanner Trail from the Public Works entrance to the Snoqualmie Valley Trail crossing. The local match is $184,000. Councilmember Joselyn highlighted the benefits of connecting downtown to the regional trail network and commended staff for securing the grant. Construction is planned for 2028. The motion passed 6-0. - AB26-085: Collective Bargaining Agreement (Office, Clerical & Technical Employees): Administrative Services Director Lisa Escobar presented the ratified CBA with Teamsters Local 763 covering 12 employees. The agreement provides cost-of-living salary increases and matches the longevity bonus structure of the public works department. The motion passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - All five main agenda items (AB26-081 through AB26-085) were approved by unanimous 6-0 votes. - The City Council authorized the mayor to execute the SCORE jail services amendment and was informed of the city’s plan to terminate the contract with the City of Issaquah jail. - Upcoming events highlighted by Mayor Miller and City Administrator Emery included: a Community Shred Event on September 19, a Police Chief meet-up on September 16, a Town Hall on e-bikes/scooters/motorcycles on October 6, and the North Bend Blues Walk on October 3. - Councilmember Joselyn’s suggestion for informational signage at active city capital projects was positively received and is being explored by staff.

The City Council met on September 1, 2026, at 7:00 PM in City Hall. The meeting included a closed session for collective bargaining, approval of consent agenda, public comments, presentations, proclamations, and two action items. The meeting adjourned at 8:43 PM. All votes were unanimous (7-0) except where noted. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes from the August 18, 2026 City Council meeting. - Payroll: Approved payroll for August 20, 2026 (checks 79341–79345) in the amount of $315,529.75. - Checks: Approved checks for September 1, 2026 (checks 79337–79340 and 79346–79392) in the amount of $3,596,980.99. - AB26-072: Resolution 2192 accepting Tanner Electric Substation & Storage Yard Infrastructure Improvements. - AB26-073: Resolution 2193 accepting Milam Sewer Main Extension Infrastructure Improvements. - AB26-074: Motion authorizing PSE Schedule 51 lighting contract for the North Bend Way/NW 8th Street Roundabout Project. - AB26-075: Resolution 2194 awarding the Ribary Creek Sediment Pond Maintenance Project to Fury Site Works. Public Comments & Testimony - Elizabeth Davis (North Bend resident): Announced a Friends of the North Bend Library book sale starting September 16, 2026, and requested donations of Christmas decorations for an upcoming sale. - Jane Danforth Koser (North Bend resident): Invited the community to the Snoqualmie Valley Museum’s Silent Auction Fundraising Event on September 26, 2026, 5–9 PM at the Snoqualmie Inn. Stated the museum is accepting donations and noted a matching pledge of several thousand dollars. - Helen Lauer (Snoqualmie resident, Snoqualmie Valley for Responsible Energy): Provided an update on the proposed 780 megawatt lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) by BlackRock/Puget Sound Energy. Noted that part of the project lies within Snoqualmie city limits, and BlackRock plans to seek approval from the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC). Urged that North Bend should have a voting council member on EFSEC, as the project impacts North Bend. Mentioned SVR's discovery that BlackRock may include solar panels, which she criticized as unsuitable for the region based on Seattle Times reporting. - Ryan Makinster (Master Builders Association of King & Snohomish Counties): Spoke in support of the proposed lot splitting and unit lot subdivision ordinance (AB26-076, later moved to a work study). Emphasized that the ordinance does not change density caps, only the approval process, and could reduce costs and staff workload. Discussion Items - Presentation – Encompass: Executive Director Nela Cumming provided an overview of Encompass's 60-year history, programs (early learning, pediatric therapy, Parent Child Plus, ECAP), and impact. Key statistics: In fiscal year 2025–2026, Encompass served 2,741 individuals with 43,259 sessions; 775 North Bend zip code residents received 13,492 sessions (31% of total clients). Highlighted the new "Glow & Grow" therapeutic summer groups, which served 61 children with high parent satisfaction. Cumming noted funding challenges due to underfunded government contracts and low Medicaid rates, and asked for city advocacy for better rates. Councilmember McFarland asked about preschool capacity; Cumming stated 55 ECAP slots are appropriate for the community. The presentation was well-received. - Proclamation – Suicide Prevention Month: Mayor Miller read a proclamation declaring September 2026 as Suicide Prevention Month. Helene Wentink (Empower Youth Network) accepted and shared data: 59.75% of local 8th graders reported receiving suicide prevention information at school vs. 38% statewide; 10th graders saw a 7.6% decrease in serious thoughts of suicide; 2,700 middle school students were trained in peer-to-peer prevention last year. She also promoted free youth mental health first aid training on October 10. - Proclamation – Hunger Action Month: Mayor Miller read a proclamation declaring September 2026 as Hunger Action Month. Calib Miller (Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank) accepted, noting a 21% increase in food insecurity over the past year and 50 new households signed up in August alone. He emphasized the collaborative network of human service providers. - AB26-077 – Contract Amendment with Peach Global Solutions: Community & Economic Development Director James Henderson presented a $18,000 (12-month, $1,500/month) amendment for digital maintenance and content updates to the Adventure North Bend economic development website. The amendment includes adding pages for Project Belay, Cascade Gateway, and light industrial properties, plus website tracking metrics. Henderson stated the goal is to attract businesses through a LinkedIn campaign. Council debated whether to wait for a future economic development manager, but supported moving forward. Motion passed 7-0. - AB26-078 – Contract with Creative Financial Staffing: Deputy Finance Director Elaine Morse presented a $47,424 contract to backfill a staff accountant on FMLA leave for 12–16 weeks. The net effective cost after FMLA payments is $19,059 to $21,460. Councilmember Koellen questioned alternatives; Morse explained the need for a full-time person due to payroll and accounts payable cycles. Motion passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (7-0). - AB26-077: Approved (7-0) to authorize the Mayor to execute a contract amendment with Peach Global Solutions not to exceed $18,000. - AB26-078: Approved (7-0) to authorize a professional services agreement with Creative Financial Staffing, LLC not to exceed $47,424. - AB26-076 (Lot Splitting Ordinance): Remanded to September 22, 2026 work study per Councilmember Tremolada's request; no action taken. - Closed Session: Held from 7:02 PM to 7:26 PM under RCW 42.30.140(4)(b) for collective bargaining strategy; no action taken. - Mayor’s Announcements: Stage 2 water conservation ordinance effective August 31; blood drive at City Hall on September 8 (9 AM–3 PM); Meet up with the Mayor on September 8 (10 AM at Huxdotter); yard waste recycling on September 12 (8 AM–Noon at Public Works). - Council Concerns: Members expressed gratitude for nonprofits, promoted water conservation, urged traffic safety (noting a recent accident at Cedar Falls Way and Maloney Grove Ave.), and encouraged mental health check-ins.

Mayor Miller called the workstudy to order at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 920 SE Cedar Falls Way, North Bend, WA. Councilmembers present: Brenden Elwood, Mark Joselyn, Heather Koellen, Rob McFarland, Christina Rustik, and Suzan Torguson. Councilmember Errol Tremolada arrived remotely at 7:13 p.m. Staff present included Mayor Mary Miller, City Administrator Amber Emery, Finance Director Martin Chaw, Public Works Director Tom Mohr, Community & Economic Development Director James Henderson, Administrative Services Director Lisa Escobar, Communications Manager Bre Keveren, IT Manager Phillip Davenport, and City Clerk Susie Oppedal. The workstudy adjourned at 8:06 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - None. In keeping with workstudy practice, the public was not allowed to provide comment. Discussion Items Human & Community Services Grant Funding Policy - Administrative Services Director Escobar reviewed a proposed Human Services and Cultural Arts Grant Funding Policy, including background on nonprofit funding, city funding priorities, policy purpose, scope, procedures, and two grant funding options: 1) up to 6 percent of sales tax revenue, or 2) 1.5 percent plus 0.3 percent of the General Fund. - Finance Director Chaw presented revenue data showing that the city’s top five General Fund revenue sources—sales tax, property tax, utility taxes, business taxes, and development fees—represent about 80 percent of General Fund revenues. Historical allocations equated to roughly 3.4 percent of those top five sources, with about $249,000 for human services and just under $40,000 for cultural arts. - Council discussion covered separating human services and cultural arts into distinct applications or processes, defining funding priorities, one-time versus ongoing support, committee impartiality, outreach to smaller organizations, disqualification triggers, reporting and contract requirements, and whether to tie grant funding to sales tax volatility. - Most councilmembers expressed interest in funding option 2, using General Fund revenue for grants. Council generally supported setting percentage targets in policy while allowing adjustments during each budget process. Destination Marketing & Placemaking Manager Position - Community & Economic Development Director Henderson reviewed takeaways from the July 28 Council Workstudy on downtown reactivation and revitalization and proposed adding a full-time Destination Marketing & Placemaking Manager. - The proposed salary range was $122,000–$153,000. Funding would come primarily from economic development funds, with a portion from lodging tax, to support destination and brand marketing, placemaking, public space activation, and revitalization. - Council discussed the job title, salary range and experience level, additional hard costs for events, recruitment from corporate roles, and the need for applicants to have a strong economic development background. - City Administrator Emery noted the item would be brought back for Council consideration during the budget process. Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Moratorium & Study Update - Director Henderson provided an update on the 12-month BESS moratorium adopted May 19, 2026, through Ordinance 1856. The ordinance requires a work plan and deliverables, and the moratorium may be renewed for one or more six-month terms if necessary. - Staff is researching BESS facilities across Washington and other jurisdictions, reviewing common use scenarios, land use permitting actions, and the progress of other local governments that have enacted moratoriums, including King County. - The proposed timeline includes staff research through early 2027, study committee meetings beginning January 2027, Planning Commission engagement, a draft report in April 2027, and presentation to Council in May 2027, likely with a recommendation to extend the moratorium. - Council discussed Comprehensive Plan update requirements, data centers, King County requirements, and whether the timeline presupposes an extension. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or ordinances were adopted; this was a workstudy. - Council direction: proceed with a General Fund-based grant funding model (option 2) and return an updated Human Services & Cultural Arts Grant Funding Policy with various formula options to the September 1 Finance & Administration meeting for further discussion. - Council direction: include the Destination Marketing & Placemaking Manager position in budget process discussions. - The BESS study update was received; staff will continue research and provide updates through Planning Commission and Council processes.

Mayor Miller called the regular meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. at North Bend City Hall. Councilmembers Joselyn, Koellen, McFarland, Torguson, and Tremolada were present; Councilmembers Elwood and Rustik were excused. The council approved the agenda, processed the consent calendar, heard public comment and committee reports, and voted unanimously on two action items. The meeting adjourned at 7:58 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the August 4, 2026 City Council meeting and the July 28, 2026 workstudy session. - Approved payroll of August 5, 2026 (warrants 79271–79276) in the amount of $416,491.78. - Approved checks of August 18, 2026 (warrants 79268–79270 and 79277–79336) in the amount of $1,297,422.64. - Approved AB26-069, authorizing Supplement No. 2 with KPFF for the North Bend Way/Mt Si Road Roundabout Project. All consent items passed 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Debra Landers, representing North Bend Art & Industry, announced the Art in Nature Walk with 13 days remaining, the September 12 Snoqualmie Valley Art Studio Tour, and the September 19 Art Supply Swap. She introduced new youth board member Evy Sinclair and expressed support for local arts and youth leadership. Commission & Committee Reports - Community & Economic Development Committee (Torguson): Reviewed unit lot subdivision and lot-splitting code updates, Snoqualmie Valley School District impact fees tiered by bedroom count, the Adventure North Bend website maintenance contract, and July economic development activity. The Wyndham Hotel project is in pre-construction. - Transportation & Public Works Committee (Koellen): Discussed roundabout-related agreements, a water supply amendment, and federal construction funding resolutions for the North Bend Way/Mt Si Road roundabout and Tanner Trail extension. - Public Health & Safety Committee (Koellen, for Elwood): Heard updates from Eastside Fire and Rescue and Police Chief Hall, including June (654) and July (605) calls for service, e-bike/e-motorcycle enforcement, and outlet mall larceny issues. - Finance & Administration Committee (McFarland, for Rustik): Reported a clean state audit, a favorable June budget status report, and continued work toward the next biennial budget. - Planning Commission (Henderson): Recommended parking regulation amendments after an August 5 public hearing and will consider capital facilities element amendments on September 2. - Parks Commission and Economic Development Commission: Did not meet in July; next meetings are August 26 and August 27, respectively. - Regional Fire Authority Planning Committee (Torguson): Held its inaugural joint meeting August 13 with Fire District 38; next meeting is August 27. - Chamber update: A general election candidate forum is planned for October 13 at the North Bend Theater; Best of the Valley nominations close August 27. Discussion and Action Items AB26-070 – Parametrix Supplement No. 2 for South Fork Avenue Extension and Starfish Roundabout Projects Public Works Director Tom Mohr presented the request for a $225,938.70 supplement to the design contract with Parametrix. The agenda title included the apparent typo “South Tom Mohr Fork Ave. Extension,” while staff and minutes consistently referred to the South Fork Avenue Extension and the North Bend Way/Northwest 8th Street (Starfish) Roundabout Projects. The supplement covers additional environmental analysis and permitting, including work related to 6PPD from tire wear affecting salmon and orcas, separating approximately 150-sheet plan sets, and right-of-way services involving a King County Conservation Futures land exchange at the Tollgate property. Mohr noted total project construction is about $9.6 million, design costs are about 14.5% of construction (below the 15–18% target), and bidding the roundabout a year early may save 5–10%, or roughly $180,000–$360,000. Councilmember Koellen moved approval, expressing support that the project will help city traffic and trucking routes. The motion passed 5-0. AB26-071 – Parks Element Amendments for 2026 Comprehensive Plan Update Planning Manager Mike McCarty presented the resolution approving amendments to the Parks Element. The review process began in January with the Parks Commission, followed by a May 28 public workshop and a June 17 joint public hearing with the Parks and Planning Commissions. Amendments revise level-of-service standards, including a new multi-use trail standard; incorporate Snoqualmie Tribe docket requests; update capital facility projects; and update maps. Both commissions recommended approval, with the Parks Commission also recommending development of a new parks, recreation, and open space plan next time, and the Planning Commission recommending a future review of pool level-of-service standards. Project Belay and a south-city park acquisition were added to the capital facilities plan to preserve park impact fee options. Councilmember Joselyn noted the significance of revisions responding to Snoqualmie Tribe comments, and Mayor Miller cautioned about the maintenance costs of park assets. The resolution (Resolution 2191) passed 5-0. Mayor, Council & Administrator Concerns - Councilmember McFarland described wildfire devastation seen in Spokane, urged caution in dry conditions, and referenced the Billy Joel song “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” - Councilmember Joselyn reported a malicious mischief incident in which a vehicle displaying a Snoqualmie Tribe flag had five tires punctured, expressed outrage, and urged community members to care for one another. - Councilmember Torguson echoed wildfire concerns, noted the Snoqualmie Tribe’s Tuesday gas price of $3.99/gallon in August, and asked for improved packet formatting. - Councilmember Koellen urged caution with increased wildlife in town. - Councilmember Tremolada announced the Si View Metropolitan Park District ribbon-cutting on August 27 at 3:30 p.m. and shared mental-health statistics: 42% of adults experience loneliness at least weekly, including 16% daily, up almost 10% from last year; more than one in four Americans have talked to a mental health professional in the past year; and 60% report less stigma than 10 years ago. - City Administrator Emery thanked summer IT intern Rishé Pierre and provided a wildfire preparedness update, including CERT and planning for vulnerable populations, following outreach from the Seattle Times. - Mayor Miller announced: 2027 Comprehensive Plan amendment proposals are due October 15 at 4:30 p.m.; a Stage 2 burn ban has been in effect since August 7; Stage 1 water conservation restrictions began August 15; and residents should practice outdoor recreation preparedness with the “10 essentials.” Key Outcomes - Agenda approved 5-0. - Consent calendar approved 5-0. - AB26-070 approved 5-0, authorizing a contract supplement not to exceed $225,938.70 with Parametrix. - AB26-071 / Resolution 2191 approved 5-0, approving the Parks Element Amendments for the 2026 North Bend Comprehensive Plan Update. - Future referrals: unit lot/lot splitting and Adventure North Bend contract items on September 1; school district impact fees on September 15 with a public hearing; Regional Fire Authority committee next meets August 27; Planning Commission next meets September 2. - The council voted to adjourn at 7:58 p.m.