Public Meetings - Redmond, Washington

The Committee of the Whole met to discuss updates to the Council Rules of Procedure and to prepare for the evening's special meeting to interview candidates for the vacant council seat. Council also addressed logistics for the interview process and considered administrative matters during "Good of the Order." Council Rules of Procedure Discussion Council President Stewart reported that she, Council Vice President Nuevacamina, and Councilmember Kritzer, along with the City Clerk, have been working on updating the rules. The scope is limited to items previously agreed upon: integrating the vacancy appointment process, subcommittee chartering rules, attendance policies, and a technical fix identified by the clerk. The group will meet with the clerk on Friday, January 16, to review a draft. Councilmember Forsythe reminded that the voting mechanism used during the vacancy process should also be included. The council acknowledged the update and will receive a formal draft soon. Council Vacancy Process Preparation Mayor Burney and Council President Stewart outlined the process for the special meeting later that evening. The city received 38 applications; 33 passed a verification process, and 11 candidates were selected for interviews after a blind application review. Each candidate will have 15 minutes to answer six pre-distributed questions. Council members selected which question each would ask: Councilmember Prakriya – question 1, Councilmember Soni – question 4, Councilmember Stuart – question 2, Councilmember Forsythe – question 5, Councilmember Nuevacamina – question 6, and Councilmember Kritzer – question 3. Logistics were finalized: the timer starts with introductions, candidates manage their own time, and the mayor will provide a brief grace period to finish a sentence. If a candidate is a no-show, the council agreed to maintain the schedule and take a break rather than shift interviews; however, if the no-show is the last candidate, they may move up executive session. Executive session will follow interviews, after which the council will vote to select 2-3 finalists for a second round of interviews next week. Good of the Order Council President Stewart thanked the council for a productive first week and announced committee chairs: Councilmember Kritzer – Finance, Administration, and Communications; Councilmember Forsythe – Planning and Public Works; Councilmember Soni – Parks and Environmental Sustainability; Councilmember Prakriya – Public Safety and Human Services. She also recommended that Councilmember Kritzer be appointed as the council's representative to the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, to be placed on a future consent agenda. Finally, she provided a heads-up about emergency management training opportunities in mid-March (three identical sessions to avoid quorum) and noted that the Public Safety and Human Services Committee will meet emergency management staff in February. Key Outcomes - Council received an update on rules of procedure revisions; draft expected after January 16 meeting. - Interview process for council vacancy finalized: 38 applicants, 33 eligible, 11 interviewed in 15-minute slots; each council member assigned one question; logistics for timing and no-show scenarios agreed. - Councilmember Kritzer recommended for Lodging Tax Advisory Committee; action to be taken at a future meeting. - Committee chairs for 2026 assigned as listed. - Emergency management training for council members scheduled for March.

The Redmond City Council held its regular business meeting on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM in City Hall, with remote access options. The meeting included the election of a new council president and vice president, a lengthy public comment period covering multiple topics, approval of the consent agenda including a collective bargaining agreement, and a single new business item approving 2026 non-represented pay plans. The meeting concluded with two executive sessions. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the December 2, 2025 regular meeting. - Approved payroll/direct deposit and claims checks for October 31, 2025, November 25, 2025, December 10, 2025, and January 6, 2026. - Approved final contract with Technical Systems Inc. (TSI) for $3,721,377 for Control Systems and Telemetry Upgrades Phase 2 and 3 (Public Works). - Approved a consultant agreement with DKS Associates for $152,207 for the Citywide Safe Speed Study and Audit Project (Public Works). - Approved the HSO Contract for $603,071 to support the D365 Financial System (Technology and Information Services). - Approved Ordinance No. 3245 amending the 2026 "LT" Pay Plan for employees represented by Teamsters Local No. 117 (Police Lieutenants) via a roll-call vote of 6-0. This item was read into the record and approved as part of the consent agenda. Public Comments & Testimony Fifteen people signed up to speak in person and two online. Key topics and positions: - Noise Ordinance & Interlake Sporting Association (ISA): Nine speakers (Nathan Gibbs, John Duncan, Becca Silva, Casey Gillam, Peter Jarvis, Brian Rowe, and others) opposed the proposed changes to the noise ordinance, arguing that reducing operating hours for shooting ranges would paradoxically increase noise due to sound compression and reduce access for diverse members (including women, minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and religious groups). They advocated for sound abatement technology (e.g., berms, walls) and collaboration with the city. Several speakers emphasized the club's community role, including youth programs, safety training, and support for vulnerable groups. Peter Jarvis noted that the city had refused to meet with the club for a year and warned of potential litigation. - Starbucks Union Workers: Two speakers (Sam Spinrad and Cordero Taberas) shared experiences of wage struggles, lack of affordable housing, and police presence during picket lines. They requested the city respect workers' rights and consider establishing a local minimum wage. - Old Firehouse Teen Center (OFH): Two speakers (Wolf Adriatico and Max Rollman) criticized the abrupt March 2025 closure of the teen center, lack of community engagement, and fencing off of the property. They urged the council to follow through on a November motion to rebuild at the same location with teen input, music space, and a recording studio. - Affordable Housing: One speaker (Aaron Hamilton) described a 43% rent increase since 2021 at ARCH (A Regional Coalition for Housing) units, paying 50% of income for a one-bedroom. He argued that affordability efforts are insufficient, with only 7 out of 300 units in his building being ARCH-designated. - Environmental Sustainability Action Plan (ESAP): One speaker (David Morton) expressed support for the 2025 ESAP but called for increased funding for heat pumps (target: 4,051 by 2030), improved equity metrics, and priority for bike network and parking management. - Miscellaneous: One speaker advocated for calisthenics parks (Tara Farahui), one requested focus on gas-powered leaf blowers (Bob Yoder), and one raised concerns about crime and executive authority (Alex Zimmerman, who was ruled out of order for non-city business). Joe Kunzler (online) praised the council for adopting open government rules. Discussion Items - 2026 Non-Represented Pay Plans (AM No. 26-005): The council considered three ordinances (No. 3246, 3247, 3248) setting salaries for Executive, Non-Represented, and General Supplemental employees. Councilmember Kritzer thanked the mayor for committing to report back on the new Deputy Executive Department Director position to ensure diversity, equity, inclusion, and strategy goals. The item passed unanimously on a voice vote. Key Outcomes - Election of Council President: Councilmember Melissa Stewart was nominated by Councilmember Kritzer and elected 6-0. Stewart outlined three guiding principles: accessibility, preparedness, and consistency. Councilmember Angie Nuevacamina was then nominated by Councilmember Forsythe and elected 6-0 as Council Vice President. A seat selection process followed based on seniority. - Consent Agenda Approved: All items, including the Teamsters collective bargaining agreement, were approved by voice vote (6-0). - 2026 Pay Plans Approved: Three ordinances amending the Executive, Non-Represented, and General Supplemental pay plans passed unanimously. - Executive Sessions: The council scheduled a 15-minute closed session to discuss real estate acquisition (RCW 42.30.110(1)(b)) and a 20-minute closed session on potential litigation (RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)). No action was taken following the sessions. - Future Schedule: A council retreat was set for January 31, 2026, with facilitator Una McElinden. Committee assignments will be finalized in coming weeks. Ombudsperson & Committee Reports - Ombudsperson Reports: Council Vice President Nuevacamina (December) reported on immigration concerns, Redmond Lights feedback, flood response, flock cameras, and the launch of a printed "Redmond Moments" magazine. Councilmember Kritzer (January) noted resident questions on executive pay, the new Recology service, police de-escalation, and gas leaf blowers. Councilmember Forsythe reported conversations with gun club members, striking Starbucks workers, and flood response. - Committee Reports: Several councilmembers reported on regional committee work including Sound Cities Association (SCA) board actions, the Eastside Transportation Partnership's federal policy agenda, and the Planning and Public Works Committee preview of the quarterly CIP study session. Council President Stewart was elected PIC Vice Chair again and will serve on the Sound Cities Association board and as Cascade Water Alliance chair.

The Planning and Public Works Committee of the Whole met on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 4:30 PM at Redmond City Hall. All council members were present, joined by Mayor Bernie. The committee reviewed four items: a resolution documenting completion of the Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan update, a quarterly Capital Investment Program (CIP) status update, a proposed fifth amendment to the Gallagher services contract, and the 2026 pay plan updates for executive and non-represented employees. The meeting focused on collecting feedback for upcoming consent agenda and study session items, with substantial discussion on the equity alignment of a new executive position. Consent Calendar - Resolution Documenting Completion of Redmond 2050: Staff recommended adoption at the January 20 business meeting. Councilmember Kritzer suggested adding a 'whereas' clause commemorating the number of residents engaged (thousands). All council members supported the addition, and no objections were raised to placing the item on the consent calendar. - Fifth Amendment to Gallagher Services Contract: Staff requested approval for a $160,200 contract (up to 12 pay periods at $13,350/period) to provide payroll consulting and backup processing during extended staff leaves. Funding will come from existing HR professional services budget. No objections were raised to placing the item on the January 20 consent calendar. Discussion Items 2025 Q4 Capital Investment Program (CIP) Update and 2026 Look-Ahead - Staff (Brendan Bueller, Steve, Tess Wilkinson) presented draft materials for a January 27 study session. Tess requested council input on which projects to feature, noting Evans Creek would be covered separately on February 17. - Councilmembers requested deeper dives on: Bell-Red Corridor (updates with Bellevue), Reservoir Park sports court replacement (budget overruns), City Hall lighting improvements, teen center project (funding sources and next steps), and the Municipal Operations Campus (MOC) rebuild (capacity and space needs). 2026 Pay Plan Updates (Executive, Non-Represented, General Supplemental) - Director Laird presented the proposed ordinances effective January 1, 2026, including a new Assistant Chief Operating Officer (COO) and a Deputy Executive Department Director (working title: Strategy and Performance). - Councilmember Kritzer emphasized that the deputy position should be the senior DEI role budgeted in the previous biennium and requested adding 'equity' to the working title to signal community commitment. Councilmember Prakriya raised concern that including 'equity' could jeopardize federal funding under the current administration. Mayor Bernie noted the city already has a DEI program advisor position with those terms, and the comprehensive plan and website embed equity values. - After discussion, council reached consensus: the working title will be refined collaboratively to reflect DEI expertise without altering the pay plan structure. Councilmember Stewart proposed monthly updates on hiring progress via the Finance, Administration, and Communications (FAC) committee until the positions are filled. Councilmember Kritzer suggested this aligns with FAC given executive oversight. No objections were raised. Key Outcomes - Redmond 2050 Resolution: Placed on consent calendar for January 20; council supported adding engagement statistics as a 'whereas' clause. - Gallagher Contract Amendment: Placed on consent calendar for January 20. - CIP Study Session: Staff to feature Bell-Red Corridor, Reservoir Park sports court, City Hall lighting, teen center, and MOC at the January 27 study session. - Pay Plan Updates: No amendments made to the ordinances. Council and Mayor Bernie agreed to develop a working title for the Deputy Executive Department Director that includes 'equity' components. Monthly updates on hiring will be provided through the FAC committee. Note: The meeting included no public testimony. All items are scheduled for action or further discussion at upcoming business meetings (January 20 and 27, 2026).

At its December 17, 2025 hybrid meeting, the Redmond Planning Commission held a public hearing and study session on a proposed comprehensive plan land use and zoning map amendment for 6900 188th Ave NE, and conducted a study session on the Transportation Master Plan (TMP) update, culminating in a vote on a recommendation to City Council. The meeting began at 7:00 p.m. and adjourned around 9:00 p.m. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: The agenda was approved unanimously. - Meeting Minutes: The minutes from December 3, 2025 were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Audience Comment (David Morton): Redmond resident David Morton alerted the Commission to 12 documented contaminated sites within Redmond's Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas (CARA 1 and 2) on the Department of Ecology's MTCA list. He requested the Commission add a future agenda item to discuss stronger drinking water protections. - Public Hearing – Land Use Amendment: Two speakers testified: - Rachel Maser (land use counsel for the applicant) supported the rezone and redesignation, stating that the applicant is coordinating with Ecology on cleanup strategies required for residential development, and that the cleanup is a separate requirement from the current rezone proposal. - David Morton (again) urged denial of the proposal, arguing that residential development would require full removal of contaminated soils (versus capping under business park zoning), making the project more expensive and eliminating valuable employment land. He noted the 2014 Southeast Redmond Neighborhood Plan deliberately split the parcel's zoning to balance residential amenities and local employment. Discussion Items - Land Use and Zoning Map Amendments – 6900 188th Ave NE (Study Session): Staff presented a proposal to change the land use designation to Citywide Mixed Use (from Business Park) and zoning to Corridor Mixed Use (from Business Park) for the 5.82-acre parcel. Commissioners explored the history of the split zoning (originating from the 2014 neighborhood plan), job allocation figures (approximately 450 jobs allocated to the area under Redmond 2050, with 78% of regional job growth in centers), and the impact on the city's 4.6% business park land. Contamination remediation costs and the tension between housing and employment land were discussed. No decision was reached; the Commission will continue the study session on January 14, 2026. - Transportation Master Plan (TMP) Update (Study Session): The Commission systematically reviewed the issues matrix and made several clarifications and amendments, including: - Issue 10: Strengthened language on e-bike safety, adding local ordinance and state advocacy (city ordinance and state education definition). - Issue 16: After debate, the Commission passed an amendment (motion by Commissioner Coleman, seconded) to include user-centered guidance in the TMP for residents in areas beyond easy walking distance of light rail, ensuring the plan addresses connections to stations from all neighborhoods. - Issue 23: Changed “consider” to “commit to” for climate risk assessment in the capital facilities plan for consistency. - Other issues closed after staff provided requested maps and clarifications. Key Outcomes - Transportation Master Plan Recommendation: The Commission approved a motion to recommend the TMP to City Council as published in the packet, with edits from issues 10 and 23, and the amendment from issue 16. The vote was unanimous (Commissioner Van Niman abstained on the amendment vote but voted for the final recommendation). The final recommendation report will be presented for formal approval at the January 14, 2026 meeting. - Land Use Amendment: No action taken; continued study session scheduled for January 14, 2026. Commissioners were asked to submit additional questions for the Issues Matrix by the end of the year. - Staff & Commissioner Updates: The Commission noted the 2026 meeting schedule (second and fourth Wednesdays) and that Glenn Coile will serve as the next staff liaison (January–March). Commissioner Aparna promoted the "Adopt a Drain" program to reduce stormwater flooding.

This meeting of the Redmond City Council's Finance, Administration, and Communications Committee of the Whole was held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 4:30 PM at City Hall. Presiding Officer Council President Vanessa Kritzer led the meeting. Councilmembers present: Anderson, Nuevacamina, Forsythe, Stewart; online: Fields. Also present: Mayor Bernie, COO Melissa Files, and staff. The agenda included nine items, one read-only, covering the 2023 financial audit, a contract renewal, pay plan updates, council vacancy process, grant program update, parking enforcement program, and an impact fee report. Consent Calendar - Approval of HSO Contract: The Technology and Information Services Director presented a request to approve a three-year, $603,071.88 contract with HSO for managed services supporting the Dynamics 365 finance system. The contract resulted from an RFQ process; HSO was the highest scorer and the current vendor. No council member objected to placing this on the consent agenda for the January 6, 2026 business meeting. Discussion Items - 2023 Financial Audit Exit Conference: The state audit team (Haji Adams, Priscilla Wong, Angela Funamori) presented an unmodified (clean) audit opinion on the city's financial statements and federal grant compliance. No material misstatements, significant deficiencies, or instances of noncompliance were identified. The audit cost was within estimate. The report will be published in 1-2 weeks. Council members thanked the team and recognized staff. - Proposed Updates to the 2026 Pay Plans: Human Resources Director Catherine Laird introduced proposed updates to the Executive Pay Plan and Non-Represented Pay Plans. A key change was the creation of an Assistant Chief Operating Officer (COO) position to address span-of-control issues in the Executive Department. The Mayor and COO explained that the Ready (DEI) program program advisor would be elevated to a deputy director role focusing on strategy and performance, using an existing FTE (the deputy executive director) rather than adding new staff. Council members requested an organizational chart, fiscal impact summary, and clarity on the overlap between the Ready position and the new role. Several members expressed concern about maintaining a clear DEI focus. After discussion, Council President Kritzer proposed moving the item to new business on January 6 rather than consent, to allow time for additional information and potential amendments. Council Vice President Forsythe suggested a pre-meeting committee discussion. The council concurred. The 3.8% COLA was explained as tied to the RESHA pay plan to avoid compression. - Council Vacancy Appointment Process Update: COO Files presented the proposed process for filling the council vacancy left by Councilmember Salahudin. Key steps: applications due January 2; council members rank applicants (scale 0-3) by January 8; top 10 candidates (maximum) interviewed on January 13 (special meeting, 15-minute interviews with five-minute transitions); council narrows to 2-3 finalists; final interviews and appointment on January 20. The council will use six standard questions. Council members provided feedback on timing (3.5 hours), randomization of interview order, and the importance of assessing a candidate's capacity to represent. Councilmember-elect Vivek Prekaria joined the discussion and offered suggestions. The process was generally supported with minor adjustments. - Citywide Grant Program Update: Grant Supervisor Lauren Thompson presented the program's progress, including the creation of a Grant Oversight Committee, a pre-application approval process, a central SharePoint site, and a regional grant network with 15 cities. She proposed establishing a grant threshold under delegated contract authority to allow the mayor to sign smaller grants (e.g., under $50,000) administratively, with council approval after execution. Council members asked for a written proposal with options and a business case, regular reporting (e.g., annual report), and inclusion of topic-based criteria (e.g., sensitive technologies). The mayor supported the concept. The council looks forward to a formal proposal. - Police Parking Enforcement Program: Police Chief Darrell Lowe and Parking Administrator Jacob Lasser presented an overview of a new Parking Management Platform (PMP) and citywide enforcement expansion. Goals: bring enforcement in-house by July 1, 2026; expand to Overlake and Marymoor Village (by April 1, 2026); introduce digital permits, multiple permit categories (including low-income/senior housing), and enhanced customer service. The presentation covered technology (license plate readers, potential in-ground sensors), updated parking maps, and proposed enforcement areas (downtown, Anderson Park, municipal campus, parks). Council members raised questions about equity (income thresholds for low-income permits), technology (app integration), policies on towing vs. ticketing, and the

The Redmond Planning Commission held a hybrid meeting on December 3, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to approximately 9:00 p.m. The meeting included a public hearing and study session on the Transportation Master Plan (TMP), a briefing on the cumulative effects analysis of the 2025-26 Annual Docket, and a preview of the 2026 Code Amendment Series. Commissioners approved the agenda and November 19, 2025 meeting summary unanimously. Consent Calendar - Unanimous approval of the agenda (motion by Commissioner Copley, second by Commissioner Gagnier). - Unanimous approval of the November 19, 2025 meeting summary (motion by Commissioner Copley, second by Commissioner Gagnier). Public Comments & Testimony - David Morton (Redmond 98053): Expressed concern about the cumulative effects analysis for the 6900 188th Avenue Northeast land use amendment, noting that converting nearly five acres of business park land may reduce employment and related business taxes. He urged the commission to consider long-term economic sustainability over cyclical market conditions and requested concrete data on tax revenue impacts. - Kelly Reaver (Move Redmond, 8525 163rd Court NE): Expressed strong support for the TMP, highlighting its focus on safety, sustainability, ADA transition, first/last mile connections to light rail, and curb management. Urged the commission to support passage of the plan. - David Morton (second appearance): Commended the TMP’s emphasis on high-comfort bicycle facilities (citing that 79% of current bikeways are high stress), pedestrian network strategies, and the Safe System approach. However, he raised concerns about climate commitments (71% GHG reduction target, 50% VMT reduction goal) noting that arterial widening projects like NE 116th Street and Willows Road may increase traffic. He requested climate impact assessments for capacity projects and greater transparency in the equity analysis tool. - Linda Seltzer (16990 NE 80th Street, JB Senior Apartments): Speaking as a senior resident, she noted the need for a direct transit route to major medical centers (e.g., First Hill in Seattle), raised safety concerns about e-bikes for older women, criticized labeling of parking objections as “frustration,” and reported that adaptive signaling on 166th Street near 80th Street is not working for pedestrians. She also requested a bus route from downtown Redmond Light Rail to the Woodinville Park and Ride. - Brian Buck (Lake Washington School District, Redmond 98052): Expressed support for the removal of the 192nd Avenue Northeast extension project from the TFP, as it would bisect property owned by the district for a future school site. Thanked the city for ongoing partnership. Discussion Items - Transportation Master Plan (TMP) – Public Hearing and Study Session (60 minutes): Staff (Michael Hintze, Francesca Liburdy) presented updates to the issues matrix. The public hearing was closed for verbal testimony but remained open for written comments. The commission then reviewed 15 issues, closing several and leaving others open for the December 17 meeting. Key points: - Issues 1 & 2 (e-bikes): Commissioner Aparna kept open, requesting more clarity on intersections between modes, speed limits, and where e-bikes are appropriate. Commissioner Weston closed her issue, noting the current response is adequate for now. - Issue 3 (drones): Closed, with recognition that existing policies on safety and equity apply. - Issue 4 (neighborhood connections): Closed after staff explained the layered modal network concept. - Issue 5 (Avondale bus pull-outs): Closed; staff explained the project was not removed but deferred to a comprehensive corridor study. - Issue 6 (148th Avenue NE): Closed; staff noted that reducing lane capacity does not reduce congestion, but signal timing and access management may help. - Issue 7 (equestrian access on NE 116th): Held for Commissioner Coleman. - Issue 8 (held for Commissioner Coleman). - Issue 9 (speed reduction): Left open; Chair Weston proposed changing language from prescriptive speed limits to studying and building consensus for reductions. Commissioner Gagnier supported, citing court experience with contested speeding tickets. - Issue 10 (held for Commissioner Coleman). - Issue 11 (bike map figure): Closed; figure will be removed from the plan. - Issue 12 (neighborhood connections figure): Left open; Commissioner Gagnier requested more transparency on equity factors and a corrected figure for the next session. - Issue 13 (held for Commissioner Coleman). - Issue 14 (bicycle level of stress map): Left open until the map is provided in the December 10 packet. - Issue 15 (street plan table priorities): Left open; Chair Weston requested adding pointers to where prioritization details can be found. - New item from Commissioner Copley: Requested adding a study of bus connections from Woodinville/Cottage Lake to Redmond Light Rail, noting that the East Link Connections program (phase 3 expected spring 2026) includes a Woodinville route. Staff confirmed advocacy with King County Metro and Sound Transit. - New item from Commissioner Aparna: Asked about first/last mile solutions beyond micromobility, considering equity and weather. Left open for written response. - New item from Chair Weston: Requested adding roundabout signage requirements and avoiding multi-lane roundabouts. Staff noted these could be addressed in a roundabout design manual. - New item from Commissioner Copley: Requested climate risk and material assessments for all capacity projects, not as a delaying tool but as due diligence. Chair Weston agreed. - 2025-26 Annual Docket: Analysis of Cumulative Effects (15 minutes): Jeff Churchill presented the cumulative effects matrix for two docket items (TMP update and 6900 188th Avenue map amendment). The matrix evaluated impacts on economic vitality, housing, utilities, land use, and environment. Commissioner Van Niman expressed concern about reducing business park land (currently 4.6% of city) given job growth targets (29,000 jobs by 2050 vs. 24,000 housing units). She requested more specific data on risk to meeting employment goals. Staff encouraged questions by email or at the next meeting. - 2026 Code Amendment Series – Briefing (30 minutes): Jeff Churchill previewed three packages: Business Improvement (clarifying commercial floor area, business-open signage, food truck/pop-up retail permits, definition updates); Fences (harmonizing inconsistent regulations, separating fence and retaining wall rules); and Legislative Conformance (seven new state laws, including SB 5571, HB 1491, HB 1183, and others). Staff noted that the first three packages are open for public comment on Let's Connect Redmond until early 2026, with study sessions and hearings scheduled for February 2026. Future packages include noise code, sign code (temporary non-commercial signs), home-based businesses, and design standards update (hearing in early 2027). No commissioner questions. Key Outcomes - The public hearing on the Transportation Master Plan was closed for verbal testimony but remains open for written comments until December 17, 2025. - Several TMP issues were closed, but eight remained open (Issues 1, 9, 12, 14, 15, plus new items from Commissioners Copley, Aparna, and Weston). These will be addressed at the December 17 study session, where the commission is expected to finalize a recommendation to City Council. - The 2025-26 Annual Docket cumulative effects analysis was presented as a resource; no vote was taken. The commission will continue study of the 6900 188th Avenue map amendment at the December 17 meeting. - The 2026 Code Amendment Series was introduced; no action required. Public comment periods are open through early 2026. - Staff announced that the City Council adopted the Fire Functional Plan and Capital Facilities Plan on December 2, 2025. - The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for December 17, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., to continue the TMP study session and hear the 6900 188th Avenue amendment.

On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the Redmond City Council held a regular business meeting at City Hall. The evening began with special orders recognizing outgoing Councilmember Jeralee Anderson and swearing in newly elected and re-elected council members. Following a 30-minute recess, the council heard extensive public testimony on topics including the Environmental Sustainability Action Plan (ESAP), the closure of the Old Firehouse Teen Center, transportation concerns, and housing affordability. The council then approved a large consent agenda that included adoption of the 2025-2030 ESAP, the Capital Facilities Plan 2050, the Fire Functional Plan, short-term rental regulations, impact fee updates, personnel manual changes, and collective bargaining agreements. The meeting concluded with ombudsperson and committee reports. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes of the November 18, 2025, regular meeting were approved. - Payroll and Claims: The check approval register for December 2, 2025, was approved. - Contract for Citywide Design Standards Update: A consulting services agreement with MAKERS in the amount of $149,978 was approved. - Appointment to CFD 2016-01 Board of Supervisors: Councilmember Angie Nuevacamina was appointed to the Community Facilities District Board of Supervisors. - 2025-2030 Environmental Sustainability Action Plan (ESAP): Resolution No. 1616 was adopted, approving the updated plan that shifts the city operations carbon neutrality target from 2030 to 2040. - Capital Facilities Plan 2050 – General Government: Ordinance No. 3237 was adopted, amending the Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan. - 2025-2050 Redmond Fire Department Functional Plan: Ordinance No. 3238 was adopted, updating the fire department's long-range plan. - Short-Term Rental Code Update: Ordinance No. 3239 was adopted, amending Chapter 5.04 of the Redmond Municipal Code to align with state legislation and establish business licensing requirements. - Development Impact Fees – 2026 Annual Indexing: Ordinance No. 3240 was adopted, updating park, school, and transportation impact fee schedules. - Personnel Manual Benefit Changes: Resolutions No. 1617 and 1618 were adopted, making various amendments to the personnel manual and adopting a new section for the self-insured medical plan. - 2026 Pay Plans: Ordinances No. 3241, 3242, and 3243 were adopted, setting salaries for AFSCME, elected officials, and Teamsters-represented law enforcement officers. - 2026-2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement (Fire Support): Ordinance No. 3244 was adopted, approving the new CBA with IAFF No. 2829 and amending the FS pay plan. Public Comments & Testimony - Chong Chen (United Hub) expressed support for the ESAP, describing extensive community engagement efforts including focus groups, surveys, and events reaching first-generation immigrants, seniors, and non-English speakers. He praised staff for incorporating community input. - Barnum Majumdar criticized the council's decision on the Old Firehouse Teen Center, stating the process has taken a toll on his health and that teen voices were ignored. - Faith (2386) strongly opposed the closure of the Old Firehouse Teen Center, accusing the council of not listening to teens, disorienting them, and failing to provide a genuine alternative. She expressed lack of trust but challenged the council to prove her wrong. - Aaron Hamilton raised concerns about inconsistent enforcement of public comment rules, alleging that a group was allowed to stack time while teens were cut off, and that a trans teenager was surrounded by police at the previous meeting. He recounted incidents of misgendering and inaction on anti-trans hate. - Bolivar Choi (Chinese Information Service Center) spoke on behalf of seniors about transportation issues (bus route changes removing stops), desire for more English classes, park maintenance concerns (Anderson Park closure, exercise equipment removal), and requests for cultural programs at the community center. - Wolf Adriatico criticized the city for applying rules inconsistently—allowing extra time for self-congratulatory items but strictly limiting critics—and pointed out misinformation in the parks director's presentation about the teen center stakeholder group dates. - Linda Seltzer urged the council to incorporate corporate responsibility into the ESAP, noting that corporate practices (worker turnover, data collection) drive environmental problems and that individuals face micromanagement while corporations face few requirements. - David Morton commended the ESAP's engagement and focus but expressed concern over the delayed carbon neutrality timeline from 2030 to 2040, calling it a credibility issue. He requested interim targets and contingency plans for PSE meeting CETA requirements. - Eugenio Vidales congratulated new/returning council members and stressed the housing crisis, noting average home prices nearly doubled from $700,000 (2017) to $1.3 million (2025) while rents are $2,080/month. He urged bold action to bring prices down. - Online speakers: Joe Kinzler (Creature Super Fan) praised Council President Kritzer's leadership and urged compliance with RCW 42.30 on public comment timing. Noah Radford thanked outgoing council members and criticized the teen center decision process. Sasha Glenn (attorney, parent) alleged the city predetermined the teen center's closure due to plans to sell the $5 million lot, and thanked Councilmembers Fields and Anderson for pushing for transparency. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved (6-0): The council voted unanimously to approve all consent items. Councilmembers made brief comments: Vice President Forsythe noted the need to study ESAP topics in the new year; Council President Kritzer appreciated the engagement and affirmed the 2040 target with interim milestones; Councilmember Stewart thanked the fire team and noted the Community Facilities District appointment. - Council Vacancy Process: The application for the vacant council seat is open until January 2, 2026. Interviews will be held January 13 (first round) and January 20 (second round and decision). - Upcoming Meetings: The December 9 council meeting is canceled; a two-hour Committee of the Whole meeting will be held at 4:30 PM instead.

The Committee of the Whole – Planning and Public Works met on December 2, 2025, at 4:30 PM, under presiding officer Melissa Stuart. Councilmembers present included Noeva Kamina, Vanessa Kritzer, Jeralee Anderson, and Jessica Forsythe (online). The meeting covered two public works consent items and a study session on a major development proposal. Consent Calendar - Final Contract with Technical Systems Inc. (TSI) for Control Systems and Telemetry Upgrades, Phases 2 & 3: The committee approved sending the item to consent on January 6, 2026. The contract amount is $3.272 million, slightly over the contract estimate but well within the overall budget, resulting in $870,000 returned to the utility. The project upgraded SCADA systems at 12 city water sites (tanks, wells, flow stations) and included a change order to incorporate sewer lift station 18 and intrusion alarms into the system. Councilmember Noeva Kamina expressed support, noting the forward-thinking nature of the upgrade. - Consultant Agreement with DKS Associates for the Citywide Safe Speed Study and Audit: The committee approved sending the item to consent on January 6, 2026. The contract amount is $152,200, funded by a $200,000 grant (the balance covers staff time). The study will evaluate actual and preferred speeds based on roadway classification, land use, and proximity to community facilities. Data collection will occur over about one month, likely in spring or fall 2026, using methods such as pneumatic tubes and possibly cameras for intersection counts. Councilmembers asked about public notification and coordination with planning, police, and the transportation master plan. Staff confirmed stakeholder meetings and alignment with prior Safe Streets for All work. Discussion Items - Overlake Commons Master Planned Development, Development Agreement, and Site Plan Entitlement (Quasi‑Judicial): This item was presented for preliminary feedback ahead of a study session on January 27, 2026, and a public hearing on February 17, 2026. The proposal by Capstone Development would redevelop the current Overlake Terrace Senior and Assisted Living Facility site (2956 152nd Avenue NE) with an 8‑ to 9‑story multifamily residential building containing up to 830 units. The project would be vested under 2024 zoning code standards. Councilmembers raised questions about: - Preservation of significant trees on the site (Councilmember Forsythe) - Administrative design flexibility for solid waste, parking, and ground‑level uses (Council President Kritzer) - Parking ratios and alignment with Redmond 2050 goals, especially given proximity to the Overlake Village Light Rail Station (Councilmember Anderson) - Public benefits, including affordable housing and decarbonization incentives (Council President Kritzer) - Displacement of existing senior housing (Councilmember Anderson) - Additional questions will be submitted by email before January 7, 2026. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda referral: Both public works items (TSI contract and DKS speed study) were approved for placement on the consent agenda at the January 6, 2026, business meeting, with no objections. - Study session scheduled: The Overlake Commons project will be discussed at a study session on January 27, 2026, followed by a public hearing and potential council decision on February 17, 2026. Due to the quasi‑judicial nature, councilmembers were reminded about the Appearance of Fairness Doctrine and disclosure obligations.

The Redmond Planning Commission met on November 19, 2025, for study sessions on two major items: proposed land use and zoning map amendments for 6900 188th Ave NE (part of the 2025-26 Annual Docket) and the draft Transportation Master Plan (TMP) update. No votes were taken; the sessions were deliberative in preparation for upcoming public hearings. Public Comments & Testimony - David Morton (Redmond resident) expressed concern about converting nearly five acres of business park land to residential, arguing it undermines job creation and business land supply. He urged the Commission to consider creative solutions that preserve employment capacity. - Sam Blatner (representing Columbia Pacific Advisors, property owner) expressed support for the zone change, stating it will allow residential development inclusive of affordable units and complement adjacent neighborhood uses. Discussion Items 1. Land Use and Zoning Map Amendments – 6900 188th Ave NE Senior Planner Glenn Coil presented the proposal to change the land use designation from Business Park to Citywide Mixed Use (and zoning from Business Park to Corridor Mixed Use) for the 4.8-acre site, which currently has a split designation. The Technical Committee found the amendments satisfy all criteria except a tension between housing goals and business park preservation. Commissioners raised several questions and requests: - Commissioner Copley asked for data on jobs per acre in business park vs. mixed-use zones, as well as small business and BIPOC ownership statistics. - Commissioner Coleman inquired about the history of the existing mixed-use designation on part of the site. - Commissioner Van Niman noted that adjacent property owned by Lake Washington School District (currently designated Business Park) should be labeled as such, as it may become a school; she also asked about short-term development plans for that site. - Vice Chair Woodyear asked about the adequacy of public facilities to support the proposed change. - Commissioner Weston asked about impacts on the noise overlay and transition zones for surrounding manufacturing uses. Staff clarified that the change would not affect adjacent properties and that the area is outside the proposed Manufacturing/Industrial Center. 2. Transportation Master Plan (TMP) Update Transportation Planning Manager Michael Hintze and Senior Planner Francesca Liburdy presented the draft TMP, focusing on General Administration Act requirements and seeking feedback on the public draft. Commissioners provided extensive comments: - Commissioner Van Niman requested better introductions and transitions for each section, noting inconsistencies in color coding and a table on multimodal level of service that lacked explanation. - Commissioner Weston questioned the accuracy of a map (Figure 3, page 105) showing micromobility trips primarily in downtown and Overlake, arguing it underestimates school-related trips (e.g., 2,300+ students at Redmond High School). She urged including a realistic stress-level map for existing bike infrastructure. - Commissioner Copley echoed safety concerns, noting that many cyclists feel unsafe with "a strip of paint" and shared anecdotes about near-misses. He suggested adding physical separators like "turtles" or other treatments. - Commissioner Coleman raised the issue of e-bike safety and enforcement, noting that high-powered e-bikes are not defined in state law, limiting police action. He also asked about incorporating education for drivers of electric vehicles (quieter, heavier, higher momentum) into the plan. - Commissioner Gagner highlighted the "neighborhood connections" map and asked how the city prioritizes walking routes, especially for vulnerable populations. - Commissioner Coleman also asked for a "story" illustrating how a family of four could access light rail from different neighborhoods, emphasizing first-mile/last-mile connectivity. - Commissioner Copley requested coordination with King County on dangerous intersections (e.g., 162nd and 124th) and roundabout safety (e.g., Parigo Park roundabout). Commissioners shared personal experiences with multilane roundabouts, noting they can be intimidating. - Commissioner Weston asked for a priority ranking of the 37+ projects listed in Table 3 (page 50) to help understand implementation timing. - Commissioner Van Niman sought clarification on "rubber pavers" for street trees, wanting assurance they won't become a safety hazard. Staff responded that the TMP is a guiding document; a citywide speed study will begin in Q1 2026; bike network improvements will focus on safety and connectivity; and they will provide additional data requested. Key Outcomes - No formal actions taken – both items were study sessions. - Next steps for Land Use Amendment: Public hearing scheduled for December 17, 2025; Commission will make a recommendation to City Council in spring 2026. Staff will provide requested data (jobs per acre, housing unit potential, etc.) to the Commission. - Next steps for TMP: Public hearing on December 3, 2025; Commission report and recommendation to Council in late January/February 2026. Staff will incorporate feedback and revise the draft before the hearing. - Upcoming meetings: December 3, 2025 (TMP public hearing and briefing on 2026 code amendments) and December 13, 2025 (public hearing, as stated by chair; note: agenda indicates December 17, 2025 for the land use hearing). Commissioners were reminded to confirm availability for quorum.