Public Meetings - Redmond, Washington

This is the regular business meeting of the Redmond City Council held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Redmond City Hall (15670 NE 85th St), with remote participation. Mayor Angela Birney presided. Councilmembers present included President Vanessa Kritzer, Vice President Jessica Forsythe, Jeralee Anderson, Steve Fields, Angie Nuevacamina, Osman Salahuddin, and Melissa Stuart. The council reordered the agenda to hear the consent agenda first, then held public hearings on the 2026-2031 Transportation Improvement Program and the Redmond Town Center Master Planned Development/Development Agreement, received staff reports on the waste hauler transition and municipal code updates, heard extensive public comment, and ended with a closed executive session on labor negotiations. No unfinished or new business was considered. Consent Calendar - The council approved all consent calendar items. Councilmember Anderson pulled the 2026 Tourism Grant Funding item for separate consideration; the remaining consent items passed 6-0, and the tourism grant item passed 5-1 after Council President Kritzer thanked the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee for its work. - Approved items included: minutes of the October 7 regular and October 14 special meetings; payroll/direct deposit and claims checks; 2026 Tourism Grant Funding based on LTAC recommendations; the WSDOT Regional Mobility Grant Microtransit Shuttle Consultant Agreement; a consultant agreement with David Evans & Associates for the NE 40th Street Shared Use Path in an amount not to exceed $1,115,400; the Jaymarc AV contract for the Fire Station Tones Update at Station 11 in the amount of $135,442; confirmation of new Human Services Commissioner Shrani Sagoncar and Parks, Trails, and Recreation Commissioner Kimberly Marcelino (both sworn in during the meeting); and the City of Redmond 2026 State Legislative Agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Aaron Hamilton criticized Redmond Police Department participation in a Faith and Blue event with Assemblies of God, which he called an anti-trans organization. He described his own sexual assault case and an anti-trans death threat he reported, saying officers involved in his cases attended the event, and expressed strong anger and distrust toward the police department. The mayor briefly recessed the meeting during his comment. - Wolf Adriatico criticized city leadership, accused the mayor and appointees of corruption and self-interest, and called on the council to take action. - Chester Anderson said the Parks and Recreation focus-group process for the old firehouse was misleading, arguing that placing stickers in boxes did not tell stakeholders whether they wanted renovation or rebuild. He said the majority of attendees wanted renovation and that the city spun the data to support a rebuild. - Connor Graham said the old firehouse was the safest venue in the state, described physical and mental health impacts from its closure, and said he no longer trusts the council. - Faith 2386 said the process had been a disaster and that teens felt set up for failure, pledging to keep returning to comment until the old firehouse is reopened. - Onyx said the old firehouse closure process was slow and that the stakeholder group had a disproportionate teen-to-adult ratio, with only eight teens in a 25-person group, and that teens were disrespected and badgered by adults. - Corvus Denny, a 15-year-old stakeholder, said the stakeholder group was not listening to teens, the process lacked transparency, and no decision had been made for six months before a rushed recommendation timeline. - Sally Adriatico, a parent, said teens on the east side have few options, that the firehouse filled that need, and that the city spent only about $17,000 on it over the last three years. She argued that a budget is a moral document and urged the council to show teens they matter. - Sasha said teens had been composed at first but became angry because the city nodded and then ignored them. He criticized Parks Director Lorene Hamilton and said the council subcommittee created for transparency on the old firehouse was not performing that function. He also said his prior apology for calling Mayor Birney a fraud was not sincere. - Angelina Corona asked for enforcement of noise ordinances around Lake Sammamish, citing amplified bullhorns from the rowing club with decibels up to 91. She requested code updates for condos and apartments, vehicle muffler and engine noise enforcement, and a gate at Idlewood Park because some websites list it as a 24-hour park. - David Morton supported the 2026 State Legislative Agenda, praising its focus on vulnerable neighbors and housing, but suggested identifying a specific state funding target for the maintenance and operations center and strengthening data privacy language. He also supported preserving the Climate Commitment Act. - TJ Horner opposed the Redmond Police Department's Flock automated license plate reader cameras, citing privacy risks, alleged data sharing with federal agencies, and incidents in other cities. He urged the council to drop the contract. - Remote commenters also addressed the council: Max Rollman said the old firehouse closure reflects city priorities favoring corporate interests over constituents; Rosemary Ives, former mayor and founder of the Old Firehouse Teen Center, said the stakeholder meetings had a contrived agenda and the expedited timeline was telling, urging council to demand documents and analysis; a remote commenter said the city had failed teens and missed an opportunity to seek state funds for renovation; and Ralph Liu, an old firehouse alumni, said teen voices were not heard and that minors have little say because they do not vote. Public Hearing: 2026-2031 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program - Planning Director Carol Helland introduced the state-mandated, financially unconstrained list of significant transportation projects. Public commenter David Morton supported the plan but noted the total program cost is $877 million, with only about $120 million (14%) currently secured, leaving over $756 million unfunded. Staff responded that the TIP is unconstrained, fully funded projects are in the Capital Investment Program, and next year's TIP will better prioritize projects. - Councilmembers praised Vision Zero priorities, pedestrian and bicycle improvements, and separated bike lanes. Resolution No. 1611, adopting the 2026-2031 TIP, was approved 7-0. Public Hearing: Redmond Town Center Master Planned Development and Development Agreement - City Attorney Rebecca Mueller conducted appearance-of-fairness questions; no challenges were raised. Staff presented a 19-acre, five-phase master plan on four parcels in downtown Redmond. The development would produce 676 to 1,020 residential units, about 55,000 square feet of commercial retail, a minimum of 20% of new residential units affordable at 60% area median income, above-ground parking to protect the aquifer, and additional public amenities. The development agreement would run 10 to 15 years. - Public commenters generally supported the project: Dora, on behalf of Lanie's Tailor and Atelier owner Andrea Kim, said the shop supports the plan; tenant Hassan Arikani spoke in support; Mark Chenevick of Second Story Repertory said the theater is now debt-free after retiring $107,000 of inherited debt and has a 10-year lease with Fairbourne Properties; David Morton voiced support; and Patrick Woodruff, representing the applicant Fairbourne Properties, thanked the city for the collaborative process. - Council questions focused on the Lake Washington School District's parking concerns, the negotiated reduction in pedestrian-generating uses from about 268,000 square feet to a 170,000-square-foot floor, startup business support, the phase-two office/residential option, and vesting to 2025/Redmond 2050 standards. Staff and the applicant explained that the 170,000-square-foot floor is a minimum to allow leasing flexibility, the school district holds a recorded parking easement that must be honored, and choosing the office option would trigger an affordable-housing in-lieu fee. - Councilmember Anderson announced she would vote no because of the unfinished negotiation on pedestrian-generating uses, the significant reduction in that area, the open office/residential option, and the fee-in-lieu provision. Other councilmembers expressed support, citing affordable housing, aquifer protection, and community benefits. Ordinance No. 3230 and Resolution No. 1612 were approved 6-1. Staff Reports - Waste Hauler Contract Transition: Public Works Director Aaron Burt, Solid Waste Management Coordinator Jesse Dunbar, and Recology Government Affairs Manager Alyssa Campbell presented the transition from Waste Management to Recology. They highlighted the new Recology store opening in December 2025, expanded call center hours, new collection vehicles, two Waste Zero specialists dedicated to Redmond, curbside pickup for hard-to-recycle items, annual cart cleaning, wildlife carts, and a senior/low-income discount. Council asked about recyclable definitions, account setup, and bin transitions; staff confirmed bins will not be swapped but labels will be updated, and customers should verify their service information. - Redmond Municipal Code Update: City Engineer Rob Crittenden presented proposed changes to RMC Titles 13 (water and sewers) and 15 (buildings and construction). Changes include modernizing terminology, moving stormwater sections, removing outdated sections, and increasing certain fees using CPI adjustments, such as unauthorized connection fees from $500 to $1,200. Council commented on the use of the term police powers, water conservation measures, and gray water reuse. Staff will accept comments, conduct public review and SEPA, and return with an ordinance for approval, likely in the second quarter of 2026. Ombudsperson Report and Committee Reports - Councilmember Nuevacamina, ombudsperson for October, reported constituent concerns about a recent Faith in Blue event and related police chief social media posts, campaign signs in a city park, pedestrian and bike safety projects, senior center accessibility, and Flock cameras. She noted a robust committee discussion on Flock camera policies. - Councilmembers shared additional ombuds items: Redmond High School involvement in Redmond Lights, resources for a resident with Alzheimer's and hoarding issues, school zone sign confusion along 140th Avenue, continued engagement with old firehouse stakeholders, an upcoming tour of an Issaquah teen garage, and Veterans Day ideas. - Councilmember Stewart reported on the Sound Cities Association Public Issues Committee, including a regional rate summit on November 14 and the Four Culture arts and culture levy, noting that about 35% of grant dollars have gone outside Seattle. Councilmember Forsythe reported on the AWC Federal Advocacy Policy Committee, where the group streamlined proposals with fewer direct references to the Climate Commitment Act. President Kritzer noted she is leaving the Regional Policy Committee after seven years and encouraged members to seek regional appointments. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved; the pulled 2026 Tourism Grant Funding item passed separately by a 5-1 vote. - Resolution No. 1611, adopting the 2026-2031 Transportation Improvement Program, was adopted 7-0. - Ordinance No. 3230 and Resolution No. 1612, approving the Redmond Town Center Master Planned Development and Development Agreement, were approved 6-1. - The council received staff reports on the Recology transition and the RMC Title 13/15 update; the code update will proceed to public comment, SEPA review, and a future ordinance. - The council held a 45-minute executive session on labor negotiations under RCW 42.30.140(4)(b). No action was taken following the executive session, and the meeting adjourned at approximately 10:45 p.m.

The Committee of the Whole for Public Safety and Human Services met on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 4:32 PM to discuss and approve several consent agenda items and receive informational updates on the city's Thrive homeless outreach and public safety technology programs, including automatic license plate readers. The meeting was presided over by Councilmember Osman Salahuddin. Councilmembers Kritzer, Forsythe, Nuevacamina, Stuart, and Anderson were in attendance; Councilmember Fields was absent. Consent Calendar - King County Cost Reimbursement Agreement for monitoring registered sex offenders (2025-2026): Approved for consent agenda on November 3, 2025. No discussion. - 2026 Rate Amendment to Interlocal Agreement with South Correctional Entity (SCORE) for inmate housing: Approved for consent agenda on November 3, 2025, pending provision of a table showing average bed usage and cost analysis. Councilmembers Forsythe and Stuart requested additional data on average nightly bed usage and length of stay. The committee acknowledged the need to show the work. - Approval of Office of Public Defense (OPD) Public Defense Improvement Funds: Accepted a $21,000 state grant to contract with a consultant to evaluate the city's public defense system. Approved for consent agenda on November 3, 2025. Councilmember Stuart requested that the results be reported back to council along with an update on future public defense needs. Discussion Items 2025 Thrive Update The committee received an update on the city's homeless outreach, mobile integrated health (MIH), and mental health professional (MHP) programs. Key points: - Homeless outreach: Placed 40 individuals into housing this year (53 last year); served 175 community members. Added a care coordinator. Noted an uptick in domestic violence cases. Challenges include early end of emergency housing voucher program (mid-2026) and federal funding uncertainties. - Mobile Integrated Health: Conducts bi-monthly blood pressure monitoring, provides NORCAN training, and transportation vouchers. Collaboration with other programs. - Mental Health Professional: New MHP, Mary O'Brien, introduced. Also reported on MERCAT (Mobile Rapid Response Crisis Team) dispatches: 95 dispatches to Redmond from Jan to Sep 2025; 65 law enforcement referrals, 13 self-referrals, 17 other. Working on SOP for direct 911 diversion. - Thrive Dashboard: A new public dashboard was presented showing over 2,400 clients served, referral sources, interactions, and program impact. - Council expressed appreciation and asked for future discussions on domestic violence data and housing stability definitions. Police Technology Update The committee discussed two technologies: Drone as First Responder (DFR) and Flock ALPR cameras. - DFR: Recognized as a program of excellence. Council took the update offline. - Flock ALPR: Chief Lowe detailed safeguards: no nationwide data sharing enabled, data requests require approval from Chief's office, internal audits, and a case number for searches. Two out-of-state data sharing errors (Lincoln County ID and Medford OR) were discovered and corrected; no data was actually shared. No federal agency requests have been received. A filter under the Keep Washington Working Act prevents searches related to immigration. Council members voiced concerns about vendor accountability, the opt-in default update issue, and the 30-day data retention period. Council President Kritzer requested written assurances from Flock and exploration of alternative vendors. Councilmember Nuevacamina asked to revisit the 30-day retention. Council agreed to schedule a follow-up discussion at the next committee meeting. Key Outcomes - All three action items will be placed on the November 3, 2025 consent agenda. - For the SCORE rate amendment, staff will provide a table showing average bed usage and cost analysis before final approval. - For the OPD grant, staff will report back on the consultant evaluation and future public defense needs. - The Thrive dashboard will be made publicly available; further data on domestic violence and housing stability will be considered. - For the Flock ALPR program: Chief Lowe will obtain a written letter from Flock confirming data protection and provide it to council. A statement from the police department addressing community concerns will be posted. The 30-day data retention policy will be revisited. A follow-up discussion on the Flock program is scheduled for the next Public Safety and Human Services Committee meeting. Council will explore alternative vendors for ALPR technology. - The committee noted that the King County Crisis Levy presentation will be given at the November 3 special orders of the day. No public testimony was heard.

This study session convened at 7:03 PM on October 14, 2025, with all council members present. The council discussed four major items: the city's 2026 state legislative agenda, adoption of the 2025–2050 Fire Department Functional Plan, quarterly Capital Investment Program (CIP) project updates, and council talk time. Key decisions included approving edits to the legislative agenda, directing staff to incorporate planning commission recommendations into the fire plan, and scheduling a dedicated study session on the Evans Creek restoration project. Legislative Agenda - Overview: Amy Side, Chief Policy Advisor, and Amina Tiore (Gordon Thomas Honeywell) presented the 2026 state legislative agenda. The 2026 session is a short 60-day session starting January 12, 2026, with a significant budget deficit. The agenda focuses on protecting the social safety net, civil rights, immigrant/refugee support, tenant protections, environmental sustainability (including the Climate Commitment Act), gun violence prevention, and reproductive/gender-affirming healthcare. The city’s sole monetary request is $500,000 for Hartman Park playground improvements. - Council Feedback: Councilmembers suggested adding “regional amenities” to the Hartman Park description, including “AI & autonomous vehicles” in the technology section, and adding explicit support for the ARCH (A Regional Coalition for Housing) agenda. Councilmember Fields raised concerns about state action to protect local civil liberties amid federal enforcement changes; staff noted the agenda is a guiding document but the council can take action if needed. - Outcome: The council approved the amendments via thumbs-up. The agenda will return for formal adoption on the consent calendar at the October 21 business meeting. Fire Department Functional Plan - Presentation: Fire Chief Adrian Shepherd and Deputy Chief Ami Kiracone presented the 2025–2050 Fire Department Functional Plan, a $83 million capital roadmap (with an additional $70 million beyond 2050). Key projects include remodeling/rebuilding Station 11, relocating Station 12, lifecycle renovations at Station 16, completing Station 17, and planning for a potential Station 19. The plan enables updating fire impact fees for the first time since 1991. - Council Discussion: Councilmember Stewart requested a holistic fiscal review with the finance director before adoption. Councilmember Fields asked about the Maintenance and Operations Center (MOC) interface and funding timeline. Council President Kritzer sought details on Station 11’s two-phase modernization. Councilmember Nueva Camina asked about impact fee projections (expected early 2026). - Outcome: The council approved incorporating all planning commission recommendations (clarifications and edits) and directed staff to perform light copyediting. The plan will be discussed further at the November 18 Committee of the Whole (Public Safety) for fiscal alignment, with a goal of consent adoption at the December 3 business meeting. Capital Investment Program (CIP) Q3 2025 Updates - Evans Creek Restoration Project: Director Aaron Burt reported that the project is at an impasse with King County over a perpetual indemnity agreement, leading to potential cost increases to $22+ million (up from $9 million). The city has spent $5 million without turning dirt. Council agreed to schedule a dedicated study session to evaluate the project’s viability. - Other CIP Projects: - MOC Campus Redevelopment: Validation phase underway; design-build team selected (Lewis, Miller Hall, Stantec). A check-in with council will occur after validation. - Southeast Redmond Park: RFQ for design due October 22; design starts Q1 2026. - Bell-Red Buffered Bike Lanes: Utility work underway, delays due to poor utility locates; costs remain minimal. - Lift Station Equipment Upgrades Phase 2: Bids came in $900k under estimate; award expected November 18. - 124th/172nd Gate: Litigation dismissed with prejudice; city preparing to implement traffic calming and gate removal after 30-day appeal period. - CIP Scoring Update: Tess Wilkinson introduced a new project scoring system aligned with budget priorities, allowing each functional area to define its own criteria. This will be crosswalked with outcome maps in the November 12 study session. Council Talk Time - Private Wells Ordinance: Councilmember Kritzer paused the item to review staff feedback; Councilmember Anderson requested incorporating definitions from state bill amendments. - SCA Boards and Commissions: Councilmember Stewart reappointed to the Growth Management Planning Council; Council President Kritzer announced she will step down from her SCA board seat, encouraging others to apply by November 7. - Joint School Board Meeting: Councilmember Stewart proposed a joint council conversation with the Lake Washington School Board in March 2026 at Education Hill. - November Schedule: Council President Kritzer reminded members of adjusted meeting dates: Monday, November 3 (due to Election Day) and Wednesday, November 12 (due to Veterans Day). Key Outcomes - Approved all amendments to the 2026 state legislative agenda; will return for consent on October 21. - Directed staff to incorporate all planning commission edits into the Fire Department Functional Plan; further fiscal discussion on November 18; adoption targeted for December 3. - Scheduled a dedicated study session for the Evans Creek restoration project to assess cost-benefit and next steps. - Acknowledged dismissal of litigation on the 124th/172nd gate; city will proceed after appeal period. - Paused discussion on the private wells ordinance pending staff feedback and additional council input. - Councilmembers are to indicate interest in SCA board seats by November 7.

This special meeting of the Redmond City Council on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 6:40 PM, focused on interviewing candidates for two city commissions: the Human Services Commission and the Parks, Trails, and Recreation Commission. Council members present included Councilmember Anderson, Councilmember Nuevacamina, Councilmember Stuart, Mayor Birney, Council Vice President Forsythe, Councilmember Salahuddin, and Council President Kritzer (online). No public comments were received, and no consent calendar items were considered during this meeting; the appointments are expected to be placed on the consent agenda the following week. Discussion Items Candidate Interview: Shavani Sogankar – Human Services Commission - Introduction: Brooke Buckingham, Human Services Manager, introduced Shavani Sogankar, a Redmond resident of over 10 years who works at Microsoft and has a background in global health nonprofits and sustainable development. - Candidate Remarks: Sogankar expressed a desire to support the local community, particularly those without access to basic needs, and emphasized climate readiness. She noted that Redmond is often associated with tech wealth but that many residents lack basic necessities. She hoped to see the community move from "surviving to thriving" by the end of her term, especially given potential cuts to programs like SNAP. - Council Interaction: Councilmember Stewart highlighted recent council actions, including an increase in per-resident investment in human services and a push to fund culturally specific organizations. Sogankar was praised for her system-thinking approach and alignment with the commission's goals. Candidate Interview: Kimberly Marciel Marcelino – Parks, Trails, and Recreation Commission - Introduction: Lindsay Falkenberg, Parks Planning Manager, introduced Kim Marcelino, a newer Redmond resident (moved July 2024) who is active at Anderson Park Community Gardens, a parent, triathlete, and filmmaker with a background in urban planning and art history. - Candidate Remarks: Marcelino expressed a passion for creating a destination playground in downtown Redmond, noting the lack of playgrounds in the core for families with young children. She emphasized the importance of shared public spaces in building community connections, drawing on her New York City background. - Council Interaction: Council President Kritzer supported the idea of a downtown playground. Councilmember Stewart informed Marcelino about recent state funding for Idlewood Park improvements and a potential legislative request for a playground refresh at Hartman Park, including accessibility upgrades. Marcelino was commended for bringing fresh perspectives. Key Outcomes - Both candidates were well received by the council, with no objections to their appointments. - The council indicated that the appointments for Shavani Sogankar to the Human Services Commission and Kimberly Marciel Marcelino to the Parks, Trails, and Recreation Commission would be placed on the consent agenda for the next council meeting (scheduled for the week of October 14, 2025). - No formal votes were taken during this special meeting; action will occur at the subsequent regular meeting.

On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., the Redmond Planning Commission held a hybrid meeting in City Hall Council Chambers. The primary focus was a public hearing and study session on the Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) 2050 – General Government, which will be adopted by reference into the Comprehensive Plan. The commission also heard public comments on other topics, approved the agenda and prior meeting summary, and set the next meeting for October 22, 2025. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Approval of Meeting Summary (September 24, 2025): Approved unanimously. - Automatic Continuation of Public Hearing: The commission voted to automatically continue the CFP public hearing to October 22, 2025, in case quorum is lost; this was approved without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - David Morton (Redmond 98053) – Provided feedback on the draft 2025 Environmental Sustainability Action Plan (ESAP), not on the CFP. He expressed support for ambitious sustainability goals but raised concerns about implementation capacity, insufficient budget clarity, and lack of prioritization. He recommended prioritizing actions by feasibility and impact, providing realistic staffing and budget projections, establishing annual public reporting, and strengthening cross-plan connections. He stated, “I support Redmond's sustainability ambitions, but results may be disappointing without implementation planning.” - Public Hearing on CFP 2050 – David Morton also testified specifically on the CFP. He called for stronger climate resilience integration, noting the plan lacks mandatory requirements for climate-resilient materials and omits extreme heat in hazard summaries. He urged the commission to recommend requiring mandatory material specifications, adding extreme heat assessments, incorporating climate resilience policies (FWCR2, CR 10-12), and requiring climate vulnerability assessments for major capital projects. He argued, “These facilities will serve Redmond for 50+ years. Building to yesterday's climate conditions guarantees premature deterioration.” Discussion Items Capital Facilities Plan 2050 – General Government (Study Session on Issues Matrix) The commission reviewed the Issues Matrix with staff (Loreen Hamilton, Director of Parks and Recreation; Glenn Coil, Senior Planner; Jeff Churchill, Planning Manager; Quinn Kuhnhausen, Facilities Manager). Key topics included: - Issue 8 – Hazard Summary: Commissioner Aparna recommended adding extreme heat to the list of hazards. After debate on process (recommendation vs. redline), the commission agreed to include this as a formal recommendation to City Council, with the chair or director highlighting its importance. The issue was closed. - Issue 9 – Climate Resilience Policies: Staff indicated they will incorporate policies FWCR2 and CR 10-12. The commission closed this as part of the recommendation. - Issue 10 – Materials Language: Staff proposed changing “consider” to “committed to” choosing resilient and sustainable materials as best practice. The commission supported this stronger language and closed the issue, with the change to be included in the recommendation. - Issue 11 – Formatting: Noted and will be corrected by the consultant. - Issue 12 – Prioritization of Fire Stations: Left open pending input from Commissioner Coleman (absent). - Issue 13 – Finance: Closed per Vice Chair Woodyear. - Issue 14 – Well 4 Clarification: Commissioner Copley requested a crosslink to the Water System Plan; staff clarified it is mentioned due to proximity to municipal campus. Closed with a recommendation for clarifying language. - Issue 15 – Emergency Preparedness: Commissioner Copley found the current language unclear; staff will provide revised language linking to the plan sections. Left open for further review by email. - Issue 16 (Commissioner Coleman): Left open pending his review. - Issue 17: Closed as satisfactory. - New Issue – Climate Vulnerability Assessments: Commissioner Aparna requested adding a recommendation that major capital projects undergo climate vulnerability assessments. Staff noted the city already conducts such assessments (e.g., Redmond Senior and Community Center). The commission agreed to add this as a sub-item to the recommendation. Commissioners also discussed the process for how recommendations reach City Council. Staff (Jeff Churchill) clarified that legally, recommendations presented in the issues matrix or as redlines carry the same weight; formatting does not affect legal status. The commission expressed a preference for clear, highlighted recommendations to ensure council attention. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing Continued: The public hearing on the CFP 2050 will remain open for written comments and continue to the October 22 meeting unless concluded earlier. - Issues Closed: Twelve issues were closed, with several requiring language changes to be included as formal recommendations to City Council. - Recommendations Added: The commission will forward recommendations to City Council on: (1) adding extreme heat to hazard assessments; (2) incorporating climate resilience policies; (3) using “committed to” rather than “consider” for resilient materials; (4) adding a crosslink for Well 4; and (5) requiring climate vulnerability assessments for major capital projects. - Next Steps: Staff will prepare a draft planning commission report with all recommendations and proposed text changes for the October 22 meeting, where the commission will consider a formal vote to recommend the plan to City Council.

The Redmond City Council held its regular business meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The meeting featured robust public comment, a consent agenda with one item pulled for discussion, staff reports on economic development and World Cup planning, and updates from council members. Key decisions included approval of the consent agenda (minus item 6) and a 6-to-1 vote to purchase the Redmond Community Center at Marymoor Village. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from September 16, 23, and 25, 2025 meetings. - Approved payroll/direct deposit and claims checks. - Approved partnership with King County Regional Homelessness Authority for severe weather shelter funding. - Approved agreements for Tablet Command integration with NORCOM and PSRFA. - Approved sixth amendment to interlocal agreement with King County for Redmond Watershed Trails maintenance. - Item 6 (acquisition of Redmond Community Center at Marymoor Village) was pulled for discussion and voted on separately. Public Comments & Testimony - Speakers overwhelmingly criticized the city’s handling of the old firehouse (OFH) teen center closure and the stakeholder process. Key points: - Aaron Hamilton accused the city of lying about building safety, claiming less than $20,000 spent on repairs since 2023 and alleging the building could collapse but is not condemned. - Sasha Glenn described the local government as an "aristocracy" and alleged that a requested subcommittee was "hijacked" by the mayor and parks director, with council members only observing. She noted that her group has nearly 4,000 signatures in support of repurposing the OFH as a music/arts teen center. - Chester Anderson (a teen) argued the stakeholder group has 15 adults vs. 8 teens, with 7 adults working for the city, creating a conflict of interest. He demanded replacing adult city affiliates with teens. - Ellie (age 15) shared emotional testimony about the loss of a safe space, noting that after OFH closed, she attended an unregulated house show where adults arrived with vapes. - Wolf Adri (age 18) criticized the stakeholder focus groups as manipulative and expressed disappointment with the direction of teen services at the new RCCMV location. - Sally Adriatico (Wolf's mom) pleaded with council to be transparent about their plans, warning that the process is devastating teens' mental health. - David Morton spoke on environmental plans, supporting ESAP targets but questioning feasibility and urging mandatory climate-resilient building specifications in the CFP. - Noah Radford (remote) called the process a "farce" and said he's embarrassed to be civically involved. - Max Ruhlman (former city recreation leader) urged council to pull the RCCMV purchase from the agenda until public engagement and attendance statistics are provided, arguing the purchase is duplicitous given the lack of discussion on OFH. Discussion Items - Consent Agenda Item 6 – Acquisition of Redmond Community Center at Marymoor Village (RCCMV) - Finance Director Kelly Cochran presented: The $18 million purchase fulfills a commitment from the 2017-2018 park plan for a decentralized recreation system across urban centers. Funding comes from over-collected REET and park impact fees, plus project savings, without impacting other capital projects including the teen center. The city has a first option to purchase; LW Tech approached the city to accelerate the sale. - Council questions focused on: conditions for returning to council if issues arise (Cochran said she would return); assurances that this purchase does not conflict with OFH funding (Cochran confirmed the teen center is a $15M identified project in the CFP, not yet in CIP, and this purchase uses separate funds); clarification that overcollection means more revenue than budgeted. Councilmember Fields noted a staff note had linked the purchase to OFH sale, but Cochran denied that connection. - Several council members explained the purchase is separate from OFH decisions and secures land for the Marymoor Village urban center. Councilmember Stewart noted the building is not a dream teen center but provides land for future community space. - Vote: 6-1 (Councilmember Anderson dissented). - Staff Report – Economic Development and Tourism Progress - Director Carol Helland introduced the first-year implementation of the Economic Development and Tourism Strategic Plans. Philly Marsh highlighted: new staff hired (Small Business Assistance Program Manager, World Cup Program Manager); business walks, office hours, newsletter with 2,000 subscribers; business attraction efforts including Select USA event; and regional leadership. - Jackie Lawler reported on tourism: 17% of 64 initiatives completed; launched Placer.ai geo-fencing data showing 600,000 visitor nights and $84M spending in 2024; lodging tax funding for microtransit shuttle and bike storage; district development activations around light rail (e.g., Intentional Small Business Pass with 26 businesses and 500 registrants); creative economy forum planned. - Council questions addressed: security concerns (deferred to World Cup presentation); inclusion of Overlake’s intercultural district in feasibility study (broad citywide scope); potential conflicts between tourist and resident uses of circulator bus (data will be collected). - Staff Report – World Cup Planning Update - Deputy Planning Director Sarah Allen presented a cross-departmental overview for the 2026 FIFA World Cup (six matches in region, team USA on July 19). Redmond's tagline: "Redmond is Ready for the World." Activities to date: questionnaire (55 responses), business meetings, Club World Cup watch party (250 attendees). Upcoming: community grants ($500-$6,000), ambassador kickoff, World Cup draw watch party, and a major watch party at Marymoor Park for the final match. - Communications Manager Kelly Schutz: Branding launched with press release; "Soccer Stories" campaign to collect community stories; steady comms cadence. - Deputy Fire Chief Mike Quirconi: Emergency preparedness subgroup conducting SWOT analysis, developing incident action plans, planning tabletop exercise by early 2026. - Deputy Police Chief Brian Coates: Public safety subgroup focusing on protecting residents/visitors, monitoring human trafficking (training pending vendor selection), working with Sound Transit and Washington State Fusion Center (now has an analyst in Redmond). security staffing will ramp up four days before first game (June 15, 2026) and continue through non-game days. - Parks Deputy Director Zach Hoovner: Operations and logistics subgroup discussing wayfinding, permits, permanent "Redmond" letters at Downtown Park as legacy art; microtransit shuttle launching Q1 2026; short-term rental regulations; Derby Days moved to July 24-25, 2026. - Council questions: Security timing (deputy chief: around game days and non-game days); hotel data (tickets not yet on sale for single games, hotels already near capacity in summer); human trafficking training (proactive messaging, port partnership, free trainings from FIFA); official fan zone status (Redmond not an official fan zone but creating own); concerns about hotel rooms being blocked for World Cup (direct inquiries to staff); immigration climate considerations (acknowledged ongoing dynamic). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (minus item 6) approved by roll call vote (7-0). - Item 6 – Purchase of RCCMV approved 6-1 (Councilmember Anderson voting no). The ordinance (No. 3229) adjusts the 2025-2026 biennial budget to fund the acquisition. - Staff will return with quarterly World Cup updates. - Councilmember Fields raised concerns about the OFH stakeholder process lacking visioning; Council President Kritzer noted discussion about integrating visioning and ensuring teen voices are prioritized. - Councilmember Nuevacamina arranged a tour of Issaquah’s "The Garage" teen center for interested council members. - Ombudsperson reports included a wide range of constituent concerns, with follow-ups noted.

This meeting of the Committee of the Whole for Planning and Public Works took place on October 7, 2025, chaired by Council President Kritzer. Eight items were discussed, including action items scheduled for the October 21 business meeting consent agenda, study session previews, and a staff report. Key topics included a microtransit shuttle pilot, the six-year transportation improvement program, tourism grant funding, and municipal code updates. Consent Calendar - WSDOT Regional Mobility Grant Microtransit Shuttle Consultant Agreement: Approved for the October 21 consent agenda. The agreement with Circuit Transit Inc. for $975,000 in grant funding plus $244,000 city match will pilot an on-demand microtransit shuttle in downtown Redmond and Education Hill, expected to begin service in early 2026. - David Evans & Associates Consultant Agreement for NE 40th Street Shared Use Path: Approved for consent. The $1,115,400 agreement covers engineering and design for a shared use path, funded by the Community Facilities District. - Annual Update of 2026-2031 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP): Scheduled for a public hearing on October 21. The TIP has been reformatted to include funded, unfunded, and transportation facilities plan projects. - 2026 Tourism Grant Funding – LTAC Recommendations: Approved for consent. The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee recommended $325,000 in grants: $175,000 for 22 external applicants and $150,000 for three city applications. Two applications were not recommended; one late applicant (Surf Cup) received reduced funding of $17,000. - Jaymarc AV Contract for Fire Station 11 Alerting System: Approved for consent. The $135,442 contract will upgrade alerting to target specific responders, funded by leftover BTIP balances. Discussion Items - WSDOT Microtransit Shuttle: Senior Transportation Planner Francesca Liberty presented. Councilmembers asked about the off-ramp strategy (ridership data and success indicators), federal funding implications (none tied to this grant), and data collection methods. Councilmember Stewart requested a future communications plan covering the shuttle, Metro Flex, and the World Cup. No concerns were raised about moving to consent. - NE 40th Street Shared Use Path: Senior Engineer Micah Ross presented. Councilmember Fields asked how the $1.1 million cost was validated (WSDOT-approved rates and hour estimates). Councilmember Stewart noted the project's importance for bike infrastructure. Moved to consent. - 2026-2031 TIP Update: Councilmember Stewart asked about the Avondale Road Separated Bikeway and Overlake projects (All Construct Street). Staff will provide details at the public hearing. Moved to public hearing. - 2026 Tourism Grants: Councilmember Fields (LTAC representative) noted the committee's recommendation to find alternate funding for city events. Councilmember Stewart expressed hope for the World Cup-related event and urged a warm handoff for the unfunded Explore Redmond Live applicant. Councilmember Forsythe suggested a future conversation on LTAC funding criteria. Moved to consent. - Transportation Master Plan (TMP) Update: Transportation Planning Manager Michael Hince presented final chapters (E-Mobility, Technology, Maintenance, Performance Metrics, Transportation Facilities Plan) for the October 28 study session. Councilmember Stewart raised questions about PSE partnerships, shared-use charger pilot, freight emission strategies, and sidewalk maintenance costs. Councilmember Nuevacamina asked about e-moto classification. Councilmember Forsythe asked about e-bike levels, data governance, and micromobility storage. Councilmember Fields asked how success metrics will measure vision achievement. Study session scheduled for October 28. - Capital Investment Program (CIP) Q3 2025 Update: Deputy Public Works Director Van Garcia presented. Study session scheduled for October 14. Councilmember Forsythe expressed concern about Evans Creek funding. Councilmember Stewart asked about a pump station in yellow status. Councilmember Nuevacamina praised budget adherence. President Kritzer requested before/after photos of completed projects. - Municipal Code Update (Titles 13 and 15): Public Works Director Aaron Burt presented proposed changes to water/sewer and building codes. Councilmember Nuevacamina asked about the rationale for fine increases. Councilmember Stewart asked about the use of "police powers" language. Staff will incorporate feedback and bring a staff report on October 21, with public comment to follow. - Fire Station 11 Alerting System: IT Director Mike Marshand presented. Councilmember Nuevacamina expressed excitement about the benefit for firefighters. Moved to consent. Key Outcomes - All action items were placed on the October 21 business meeting consent agenda without objection. - A public hearing for the 2026-2031 TIP was scheduled for October 21. - Study sessions were scheduled: CIP Q3 update on October 14, and TMP final chapters on October 28. - A staff report on municipal code updates (Titles 13 and 15) was scheduled for October 21. - No formal votes were taken; all decisions were procedural for future meetings.

The Redmond Planning Commission held a study session on the Capital Facilities Plan 2050 – General Government (CFP 2050), which will be adopted by reference into the Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan. Commissioners reviewed the plan’s contents, raised questions on prioritization, resilience, community outreach, and document clarity, and discussed an issues matrix in preparation for a public hearing scheduled for October 8, 2025. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the meeting agenda. - Unanimously approved the meeting summary from August 27, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - David Morton (Redmond 98053) spoke on the proposed strategies for the Environmental Sustainability Action Plan 2025 refresh. He commended staff for comprehensive work and the shift to a “five big moves” framework. He emphasized that community empowerment and financial accessibility are critical, urging that programs be low-cost and accessible to low-income households. He also stressed the need for clear, quantifiable metrics to track progress toward climate goals. Discussion Items - Study Session on Capital Facilities Plan 2050 – General Government – Senior Parks Planner Cameron Zapata presented the CFP 2050, which forecasts capital facility needs to 2050 based on Redmond 2050 growth targets. The plan covers fire, police, maintenance/operations, indoor recreation, and administrative facilities. Key findings include: most facilities are in reasonably good condition except fire stations 11, 12, 13, and the old firehouse teen center; multiple buildings will reach end of service life before 2050; and environmental improvements from electrification can improve performance. Projects are prioritized into near-term (2027–2032), medium-term, long-term, and beyond-2050 buckets. A cost summary graphic showed spending spread across functional areas. Revenue sources include councilmanic, voter-approved, and revenue bonds, as well as impact fees. - Issues Matrix Discussion – Commissioners reviewed existing questions and raised new ones. Commissioner Aparna Varadharajan requested adding resilience policies (e.g., FWCR2 from Redmond 2050) as key elements and asked about material specifications to improve durability under climate extremes. Commissioner Tara Van Niman noted the document’s organization but requested hyperlinks and clearer page references to help readers navigate, especially for the large administrative cost bucket. Commissioner Bryan Copley observed mismatched colors in the revenue sources chart. Commissioner Adam Coleman questioned why fire station renovations are not prioritized as number one in the timing of projects, given previous underinvestment. Staff explained that the plan is a high-level list of projects, not a budget, and that funding streams are separate; the fire functional plan addresses prioritization. Commissioner Denice Gagner asked how the city gathered feedback from vulnerable communities and how outreach is done for non-English speakers. Chair Susan Weston requested a crosslink to emergency preparedness expectations, noting concerns about access from Grasson. Vice Chair Jeannine Woodyear asked about contingency plans for revenue sources, particularly the 25% reliance on REITs, and staff clarified that the plan is a long-term guesstimate that will be refined during budgeting. Commissioner Coleman also inquired about the Redmond pool and aquatic center plans; staff noted that a council study session the previous night had more details. Other issues included the Grasson art studio not listed as a capital facility, and a well on the municipal campus with PFAS concerns that might be covered under a different plan. Key Outcomes - No formal vote or decision was taken; the study session was intended to gather commissioner input and refine the issues matrix. - Staff will incorporate commissioner feedback into the issues matrix and update the document as needed. - The next step is a public hearing on October 8, 2025, for the Planning Commission to make a recommendation on the CFP 2050 to the City Council. Commissioner Coleman will be absent from that meeting.