Public Meetings - Redmond, Washington

On September 15, 2026, at 6:30 PM, the Redmond City Council held a special meeting to receive the results of the 2024 Financial Audit and to conduct entrance conferences for the 2025 Financial Audit and accountability audits for Community Facilities Districts (CFD) 2014-01 and 2016-01. Representatives from the Washington State Auditor's Office presented the audit findings, followed by discussion with council members and city staff. 2024 Financial Audit Exit Conference - Clean Audit Opinion: The State Auditor's Office issued an unmodified (“clean”) opinion on the City’s 2024 financial statements and on federal grant compliance, indicating the financial statements are fairly stated and materially correct. - No Material Weaknesses: No significant deficiencies in internal controls, material weaknesses, or instances of material noncompliance were reported for the financial statement audit. - Management Letter on Capital Assets: The audit found that the City reported 717 fully depreciated capital assets still in use, with an original total cost of approximately $50 million, indicating that useful life estimates were not accurately or timely adjusted. The City was recommended to improve internal controls and dedicate resources to review and reassess asset useful lives. - Single Audit Findings for Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund: Three issues were identified: 1. Suspension and debarment: The City did not adequately verify contractor eligibility for federal funds over $25,000. 2. Reporting: The City’s project and expenditure reports were incomplete and not supported by the general ledger. 3. Subrecipient monitoring: The City did not obtain or follow up on single audits for six subrecipients receiving $732,000 in pass-through funds. - Management Letter on Federal Procurement: The City’s written procurement policies did not include all federal procurement requirements, particularly for the Highway Planning and Construction program and the Coronavirus recovery program. - Audit Cost: The audit cost was higher than the regional estimate due to additional time needed to follow up on recommendations. City’s Corrective Actions - Kelly Cochran, Finance Director, stated that corrective actions were already implemented in 2025, before the audit statements were submitted. Actions included expanding suspension and debarment policies, creating checklists for human services grants, and improving documentation. The City also hired additional grant staff and federal lobbyists to strengthen compliance capacity. Council Discussion - Councilmember Kritzer thanked the auditors and requested a brief overview of the City’s response to the findings. She emphasized that the findings must be taken seriously, especially regarding federal recovery dollars. Council President noted that the City had experienced a unique “experiment” with direct federal funding and that it is important to demonstrate proper stewardship. - Director Cochran explained that the foundational work by new grant staff in 2025 included policies, procedures, documentation, training, and updates to council. She stated that the grant team is now focused on generating additional revenues and has been integrated into the capital decision-making process. Entrance Conference for 2025 Audits - Scope of Upcoming Audits: The Auditor’s Office outlined plans for the 2025 financial and federal compliance audit, along with accountability audits for CFDs 2014-01 and 2016-01. The accountability audits will cover January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2025 (or the dissolved date for CFD 2014-01). - Risk-Based Approach: For both CFDs, the office will use a risk-based audit approach and will notify the districts of selected areas after planning. - Communication and Reporting: Weekly status meetings and an exit conference with the governing body will be scheduled. Recommendations will be issued as findings, management letters, or exit items depending on significance. - Additional Services: The office highlighted free resources including cyber checkups, training, a help desk for Local Government Support, and team-building workshops. Key Outcomes - The 2024 audit results were formally presented and accepted. No council vote was required. - The City’s corrective actions were acknowledged, and the council expressed confidence in the Finance Department’s response. - The entrance conference set the stage for the 2025 audits, with the City committing to ongoing cooperation. - Audit reports will be published on the State Auditor’s website on September 16, 2026.

The Public Safety and Human Services (PSHS) Committee of the City of Redmond met on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 4:30 PM at Redmond City Hall (15670 NE 85th St.) and remotely via RCTV, Comcast Channel 21/321, Ziply Channel 34, Facebook/YouTube (@CityofRedmond), and phone at 510-335-7371. Council Vice President Angie Nuevacamina presided as presiding officer for Councilmember Vivek Prakriya. Council President Melissa Stuart (the transcript renders the name as Stewart) and Councilmembers Sayna Parsi, Menka Soni, and Vanessa Kritzer attended in person, while Councilmember Prakriya participated remotely. The committee took no final votes, but reviewed the FD34 Emergency Services Operating Agreement second addendum, the 2027-28 Human Services Funding update, the Redmond Fire Impact Fee update, the Fire Department Quarterly Overtime Report, withdrawal from the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA), and the 2026 Technology and Information Services (TIS) Business Solutions Division update. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar action was taken during this meeting. The FD34 second addendum is scheduled for the city council consent agenda on October 6, 2026. Discussion Items FD34 Emergency Services Operating Agreement - Second Addendum (2026-2029 Extension) Deputy Fire Chief Ahmed Varrell presented the second addendum to the interlocal agreement between Redmond and King County Fire District 34. The addendum is a straight two-year extension, moving the agreement end date from December 31, 2027, to December 31, 2029, to ensure uninterrupted fire suppression, fire prevention, EMS, and emergency preparedness services for District 34 residents. The requested action is consent on October 6, 2026. 2027-28 Human Services Funding Update (Study session scheduled October 27, 2026) Human Services Manager Brooke Buckingham reported that the city opens its human services grant process every two years; the commission will review proposals and present recommendations, which council will adopt as part of the city's 2027-28 budget. Councilmembers requested that the study session presentation include: - The specific percentage of housing and human services dollars invested in rent relief and other housing stability programs (Council President Stuart). - A breakout of unfunded need by program area, including food insecurity and mental health, beyond affordable housing (Councilmember Parsi). - An analysis of how funding to nonprofits is not duplicative of funding from neighboring cities such as Bellevue (Councilmember Parsi). - Data on why grassroots nonprofits did not secure funding, such as incomplete applications or lack of expertise or resources (Councilmember Parsi). Councilmember Kritzer asked that this item be separated out in final voting so she can cast a distinct refusal vote. Councilmember Prakriya agreed and noted audio issues with remote participation. Redmond Fire Impact Fee Update (Study session scheduled October 13, 2026) Deputy Fire Chief Varrell presented the proposed fire impact fee changes and is seeking council approval before December so the fees can be consolidated with other impact fee updates this year. Council dialogue addressed: - The budget theme of capturing revenue leakage, balanced with the need not to raise fees so high that they deter development, including senior housing and other spaces (Council President Stuart). - How the fee changes will affect low-income and affordable housing development (Council President Stuart). - A request for call data broken out by neighborhood to evaluate whether standard residential call assumptions apply equitably, with a comparison of incidents by area (Councilmember Parsi). - Consideration of mitigations for the largest fee increases. Fire Department Quarterly Overtime Report (Informational) Deputy Fire Chief Varrell presented the quarterly overtime report and noted the fire department is essentially right at budget when all personnel costs are considered. The agenda packet lists the period as January 1 through June 30, 2025, while the oral presentation described the report as covering January 1 through June 30, 2026; the discrepancy was not discussed. Varrell explained that when fire personnel are absent, positions cannot be set aside, so overtime is necessary, and the department analyzes whether overtime at 1.5 times pay is less expensive than hiring additional staff. A councilmember noted Redmond firefighters work 48-hour shifts. Councilmember Kritzer asked for written memos or brief slides in advance for future informational items so council and the public can prepare meaningful questions, and for plain-language explanations of tools such as Lucidity and related applications; Council President Stuart agreed, noting council leadership has been working with staff through the agenda-setting process on meaningful packet material. King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) Withdrawal (Informational) Human Services Manager Brooke Buckingham reported that KCRHA is being reorganized and the contracts it currently administers are being transferred back to the City of Seattle and King County, so Redmond needs to withdraw from its interlocal agreement with KCRHA. A councilmember asked why the item is informational only; staff responded that the original agreement authorized the executive to withdraw without additional council approval. Council President Stuart asked for additional communication to the council and community about changes going into the winter weather season, suggested discussing next steps at the upcoming housing and human services action plan refresh study session, and asked if the Mayor could join a future discussion. She stated she understood and supported the action and that regionalism still matters, and noted the point-in-time count results are still pending. 2026 Technology and Information Services (TIS) Business Solutions Division Update (Items from Other Committees) The TIS Business Solutions Division update was presented to PSHS because the full council agenda was full. The division is organized into three groups: one supporting parks, planning, and public works; one supporting human resources, finance, and executive; and one supporting police and fire. Staff described how the division identifies underlying needs, tests solutions, rolls them out, and supports them beyond launch. Examples included Public Works' CCTV pipe inspection program for asset condition assessments and VSAL's implementation of a vendor solution with the public works team. Councilmember Kritzer asked for future memos and slides that explain unfamiliar systems such as Lucidity in plain language, with metrics tied to outcomes such as the CCTV and water AI technology. Council President Stuart agreed, and Councilmember Prakriya voiced support for the feedback. Key Outcomes - The FD34 second addendum will be placed on the October 6, 2026, city council consent agenda. - Staff will incorporate the council-requested data into the October 27, 2026, human services funding study session: rent relief percentage, unfunded-delta breakout by program, anti-duplication analysis, and applicant technical-assistance data. - Staff will consider council feedback for the October 13, 2026, fire impact fee study session, including neighborhood-level call data, affordable-housing impact, and mitigation options for large fee increases. - The city will proceed with withdrawing from the KCRHA interlocal agreement without a council vote; additional council and community communication about the change will be provided. - TIS Business Solutions staff were asked to provide advance written materials for future informational items.

The Redmond Planning Commission met on September 9, 2026, for a study session that included briefings on the Urban Mixed Use Master Plan, the Design Standards Update, and a presentation on the city's capital improvement projects and facilities. The meeting also involved the approval of the Planning Commission Rules Update, though this item was not discussed in detail during the transcribed portion. Discussion Items - Capital Improvement Program and Facilities Overview – Staff presented the six-year CIP revenue forecast, noting that projections assume annual CPI adjustments but no new revenues. Key capital projects discussed included the redevelopment of the Maintenance and Operations Center (MOC) at $250 million, the Teen Center replacement at $35 million, and the Bellwether City Annex. The Parks and Recreation Director, Lorene Hamilton, highlighted the need to balance new facilities, replacement of failing ones, and maintenance of existing spaces. Commissioners asked about revenue assumptions and the timing of major costs in 2029. - Urban Mixed Use Master Plan Briefing – Principal Planner Becky (last name not given) and summer interns Christopher Gaffney and Sarah presented a study of the Urban Mixed Use (UMU) zone south of Redmond Way, focusing on transitioning a big-box retail area into a complete, mixed-use neighborhood. Key goals include preserving all existing commercial square footage, accommodating approximately 3,700 new dwelling units (up to 4,000), and increasing jobs. The team shared examples from Los Angeles (mixed-use Costco), Vancouver (Home Depot), Mountlake Terrace, and Virginia. They identified challenges such as critical aquifer recharge areas, pedestrian connectivity across Redmond Way, noise from freight, and tribal consultation (particularly with the Snoqualmie tribe). Commissioners asked about the feasibility of retrofitting existing big-box stores, pedestrian safety, and trade-offs between housing and jobs. The study is proposed for the next budget cycle, aiming to identify code updates and infrastructure needs. - Design Standards Update Briefing – Senior Planner Odra Cardenas presented the third phase of implementing Redmond 2050 through design code updates. The work includes a comprehensive code audit, 3D modeling testing of building forms (standard, mass timber, podium, and tower) on four sites, and research on two new pathways: living regenerative building and universal design. Testing results showed minimal impact on yield, but conflicts were found between some standards (e.g., courtyards vs. corner treatments) and with mass timber height requirements. The team has started community engagement via the city’s ‘Let’s Connect’ platform and plans a developers workshop. Formal review and adoption are targeted for the first quarter of 2027. Commissioners discussed the testing methodology, the importance of flexibility to avoid uniform design, and the need to balance aspirational goals with cost and affordability. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission Rules Update was approved as a report item (no discussion recorded in the transcript). - The commission will continue its work on September 23, 2026, with a study session on the Tree Code Update and docket items related to transportation (Repeal Neighborhood Connections Map and TFP Projects). - The final draft of the Housing and Human Services Action Plan will be presented to the City Council on September 22, 2026, with public comment accepted on September 15. - The commission has received six applications for a new commissioner position; review will occur in the coming weeks. - No formal votes were taken on the briefing items; they were informational only.

The City of Redmond City Council held a study session on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, beginning at 7:06 p.m. (agenda time 7:00 p.m.) at Redmond City Hall. All council members attended; Councilmember Vivek Prakriya participated remotely. The agenda covered a proposed new development services department, preparation for the 2027 state legislative session, the 2027–2032 Capital Investment Program (CIP), and council talk time. The council voted to extend the meeting by 15 minutes, to 10:45 p.m., to complete the scheduled items. New Department to Support Development Service Functions - Mayor Angela Birney and Interim Planning & Community Development Co-Director Jason Lynch presented a proposal to create a new, not-yet-named department consolidating development services, capital construction, inspections, real property, development engineering, code enforcement, and related functions under one leader. - Staff cited the Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan, the Housing Action Plan, state permit-timeline legislation (Senate Bill 5290), feedback from the development and business community, the Matrix report's 76 recommendations, and staff feedback as drivers. - Current challenges identified: siloed departments, unclear authority, duplication between development engineering and public works, inconsistent workflows/SOPs/technology use, excessive manual work, and issues escalated to executive leadership too often. - Future-state benefits described: a one-stop shop, single accountable decision-maker, consistent code and standards application, faster and more predictable reviews, and alignment with SB 5290. - Performance targets cited: 20–30% reduction in commercial/multifamily review timelines; deviation decisions reduced from 30 days to 5 days; common deviations standardized; deviation fee reduced from $9,564 to $4,900; single-family permits from 80 days to under 40 days, saving roughly $125/day, or about $7,750 on a $750,000 construction loan over 30 days. - The proposed department would have approximately 112 FTE positions, including 8 net new positions (director, two deputy directors, supervisors, and administrative support). Staff said 91% of affected staff already report to the same supervisor/manager and most managers have been supportive. - Financial discussion: $16 million in dedicated reserves exist for permitting services; estimated startup cost is roughly $2–2.5 million. A development fee study is planned, 100% cost recovery will be monitored, and an enterprise fund would be created. - Implementation timeline: staff briefed the mayor in July; council conversation September 8; internal staff meetings in September; council receives the budget and department charter/strategic plan in October; council budget adoption and department approval anticipated in November; staff transitions January 1, 2027. - Council feedback and questions included: requests for a written matrix with the full details and pain points; the business case and alternatives; org charts of all affected departments; explanation of why the technical committee would be eliminated despite the Matrix report recommending expanding it; effects on everyday residents and renters; recession risk; TIS/AI coordination; and whether the department could instead sit under planning. Councilmember Prakriya voiced support for more cross-departmental coordination but asked for more specific numbers. Councilmember Stewart said the case needs to be crisp on how much faster housing can be built and how much residents save. - Staff said change management and staff/customer communications are part of the implementation, though some communications costs may be incurred later. Preparation for the 2027 Legislative Session - Chief Policy Advisor Amy Sai and state lobbyist Brianna Murray (Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Relations) presented the first draft of the 2027 State Legislative Agenda. Council will receive a revised draft on October 13, with adoption expected in early November/December. - Session outlook: the 2027 session is a 105-day long session, first year of the biennium. Lobbyists expect Democrats to retain majorities, possibly gain a House supermajority, with more than a dozen new legislators. Operating and transportation budgets face shortfalls; the capital budget is more stable. - Agenda structure: top-priority Redmond items, regional coalition items, and broader support/opposition issues. - Top priorities included: a $3 million capital budget request for the Maintenance and Operations Center (above the usual $800K–$1M appropriation); continued funding for the Overlake Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvement Project; state funding for grant programs, including the Perigo Park grant application; and a possible fourth item to clarify that cities may require deeper affordability than the 20-year multifamily tax exemption (MFTE) baseline in transit-oriented development areas under House Bill 1491. - Council responded positively to the MFTE clarification item; Council President Stewart called it a "resounding yes" and asked for supporting impact data. Council asked for the proposal in writing in the October draft. - Regional priorities discussed: city budget stability, progressive local tax authority, addressing regressive impacts of state sales-tax exemptions, tourism promotion area authority sunset in 2027, liability reform, and affordable/livable neighborhoods. - Other support areas: housing, environmental sustainability, Climate Commitment Act funding, salmon recovery, grid stabilization, transportation/road safety, parks and trails, general government revenue sustainability, public defense, alternative crisis response, human services, child care, small business and economic development. - Council feedback and positions: Councilmember Parsi expressed general support ("95% of everything looks great") but raised concerns about per-mile road usage charges—privacy, heavier vehicles causing more road wear, and regressive effects on lower-income longer-distance drivers. Brianna Murray clarified a separate "highway use fee" based on vehicle fuel efficiency has more momentum and would exempt vehicles at or below 25 mpg. - Other council feedback: highlight that Redmond is approximately two-thirds renters; support a state junk-fee bill; increase urgency on emerging technology policy; add "surveillance" and "surveillance pricing" to technology/privacy language; include immigrant, refugee, and asylum-seeker support in community vitality; provide data on Redmond's inclusionary zoning success; and clarify lobbying roles with the county on solid waste/wastewater rate increases. - Staff agreed to incorporate the requested edits into the next draft. 2027–2032 Capital Investment Program (CIP) Review - Budget Committee Chair Councilmember Kritzer facilitated. Finance Director Kelly Cochrane and staff presented the first CIP review, covering revenues, facilities, parks, arts funding, and transportation before pausing due to time. - Current biennium status: most 2025–26 revenues are on target; grants, other agency revenues, and impact fees are expected to be under-collected due to project timing and the fire impact fee not yet being adopted. - Forecast approach: conservative revenue forecasting, no reliance on one-time revenues, restricted revenues noted, and built-in project/fund contingencies. A 2029 debt issuance is a placeholder for large projects such as the Maintenance and Operations Center and Fire Station 11. - Facilities projects: MOC redevelopment ($250 million); Teen Center replacement ($35 million placeholder, with design-build procurement underway and a finalist expected in 4–6 weeks); Bellwether City Annex mini-city hall in Overlake; Fire Station 11 feasibility and placeholder; Fire Station 17 HVAC/bunk room completion; facility security upgrades; public safety building phase four heat pump replacements; Anderson Park restroom replacement; and ADA improvements. - Parks projects: Idlewood Park parking/frontage and restroom/concession replacement; Hartman Park accessible playground replacement; Southeast Redmond park development (30% design); East Redmond Corridor implementation phase one; lighting replacements, irrigation flow sensors, turf replacements, and hardscape safety repairs; plus a proposal to move public art funding into the CIP for longer-term, strategic installations. - Transportation system stats: approximately 366 lane miles of roadway, 233 miles of sidewalks, 80.5 miles of bicycle facilities, 21 bridges, and 111 traffic signals. Priority areas include light rail access, low-stress bike/pedestrian networks, preservation, and grants. - Transportation projects highlighted: 95th Street bridge replacement (awaiting Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife review, expected December 2026/January 2027), a roundabout feasibility study, NE 40th Street shared-use path, Bell-Red corridor bike spine improvements, WLSP multimodal phase two, and a cycle track with a 2028 PSRC grant. - Council comments on CIP: Council President Stewart called attention to the playground deficit in the fastest-growing, high-immigration neighborhood and the need for visible progress on the East Redmond Corridor; Councilmember Forsythe requested protected bike lanes and more bike network mileage; Councilmember Parsi requested equity data, lighting/dark-sky considerations, and a map showing how bike projects connect; Councilmember Soni requested data classifying Vision Zero versus maintenance projects; Councilmember Kritzer asked which projects could be accelerated versus constrained by timing/staffing; and the council requested a future policy discussion on pavement management and Transportation Benefit District investment levels. - Because the meeting ran long, the CIP presentation was paused before utilities and wastewater. It will be continued at a Finance and Administration Committee (FAC) meeting; council members were asked to submit questions by September 18. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken on the new department; the council asked staff to return with a written matrix, alternatives/org charts, the business case, and additional study-session time before budget deliberations. - Legislative agenda: council directed staff to prepare a revised draft for October 13 incorporating the requested edits, including the MFTE clarification item. - CIP: review to continue at FAC; detailed project information sheets were promised for September 9; council questions due September 18. Upcoming budget dates: September 15 financial update/forecast and first public hearing; September 22 business technology investment portfolio; October 6 full budget delivery. - The council voted to extend the meeting by 15 minutes, to 10:45 p.m.; this passed without audible opposition. - Council talk time announcements: a community council conversation at Spirit Brook Park on Thursday, September 10 at 5:00 p.m.; a 9/11 remembrance ceremony outside City Hall on Friday, September 11 at 8:20 a.m.; the Downtown Redmond Art Walk on September 17; and a council conversation at the Redmond Senior & Community Center on February 18, 2027.

The Redmond City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, starting at 6:40 PM, to interview candidates for the Library Board of Trustees and the Human Services Commission. The meeting was conducted in person and remotely. Council President Stuart presided, with Councilmembers Forsythe, Kritzer, Parsi, Prakriya, and Soni (arrived later) present. Vice President Nuevacamina also attended. Discussion Items - Library Board of Trustees Candidate Interview: Jenny Lisk - Introduced by Naveen Yajiman, Vice Chair of the Library Board, as a longtime Redmond resident, award-winning author, adjunct faculty at Bellevue College, and former IBM executive. Lisk highlighted her belief in the power of books and libraries to build community, noting that the Redmond library is the busiest branch in the KCLS system and that 95% of people surveyed view libraries as a trusted source of information. She expressed interest in a proposed community publishing imprint and in learning more about the library's diverse roles, including community court partnerships. - In response to council questions, Lisk emphasized her commitment to engaging youth through entry points like graphic novels and library programming, and her ability to serve as an ambassador through her involvement in the Poetry and Prose Network and East Side Improv. - Human Services Commission Candidate Interview: Hannah Presinger - Introduced by Alaric (likely a Human Services Commission member) as having a background in theater, project management, and lived experience navigating human services. Presinger expressed passion for ensuring community care during unstable times. - In response to council questions, she highlighted her communication skills and focus on narrative to foster hope, and identified housing stability and homelessness as a core priority. She described her approach to prioritizing funding applications by drawing on experience in video game production and theater directing, emphasizing seeing applicants as real people and using structured methods like quadrant analysis. - Councilmember Questions - Councilmember Forsythe asked both candidates how they would contribute to stability during uncertain times. - Councilmember Parsi asked about the mark they hope to leave at the end of their terms. - Council President Stuart asked how their appointment would help inform broader networks, noting the role of commissioners as ambassadors. - Councilmember Prakriya asked Jenny Lisk specifically about engaging the next generation of readers. - Council Vice President Nuevacamina asked each candidate what diversity they personally bring to the conversation. - Councilmember Kritzer asked Hannah Presinger how she would approach making hard funding prioritization decisions. Key Outcomes - Both candidates will be placed on the consent agenda for the next regular council meeting (date not specified). If approved, they will be sworn in; those unable to attend in person will be sworn in at a later time. - No formal votes were taken during this special meeting.

Meeting held Tuesday, September 8, 2026, beginning at 4:32 p.m. (the agenda listed 4:30 p.m.) at City Hall, 15670 NE 85th St., with remote participation. Presiding Officer Councilmember Kritzer led the meeting. Present were Council President Stewart, Council Vice President Nuevacamina, Councilmembers Forsyth, Parsi, and Sony, and Councilmember Prakriya online. One posted action item—the fully managed video production contract (CM 26-523)—was removed from the agenda and will return at a future meeting because more information is needed. No minutes were available for this meeting. Consent Calendar - CM 26-530 — Annual Physical Access Control (Genetec) Support Contract, $97,585. Placed on the September 15 consent agenda without objection. TIS CIO Michael Marchant and Infrastructure Operations Manager Jose Mayor presented. The current month-to-month contract no longer meets the city's needs. The new annual contract provides greater services at lower cost: the vendor provides critical parts (the current vendor does not), emergency response improves from 4 hours to 2 hours during business hours (after-hours remains 4 hours), and the city saves 15% of its current annual support costs. The prior yearly contract was just over $120,000; the new contract is $97,000 per year. Staff noted the vendor holds contracts with other agencies, including King County (transcribed as "Keene County"), and comes highly recommended. Councilmember Parsi asked about current costs and scope; Councilmember Sony asked whether the SLA metrics would be maintained. Staff confirmed no concessions are being made. - CM 26-544 — Ordinance Updating RMC Subsection 9.30.060 to Remove Conflicting Code Language. Placed on the September 15 consent agenda without objection. Finance staff (deputy director, Finance Manager Adam O'Sullivan, and Business License Program Coordinator Denise Shanda) described a housekeeping correction to remove conflicting language on gambling taxes for social cardrooms. History: a 1999 ban on social cardrooms was followed by a 2000 gambling tax update that included social cardrooms but never removed them from the taxation table. The conflict was flagged by legal counsel representing an individual inquiring about business activities allowed in Redmond. Staff confirmed this is not a policy change: commercial social cardrooms remain banned, and Councilmember Sony noted that nonprofits and charitable organizations may still operate social cardrooms if licensed by the Washington State Gambling Commission. Council President Stewart supported moving the item forward, and Councilmember Prakriya expressed full support for the change. Discussion Items - Payroll Transition Update and HR Assessment Consulting Contract (CM 26-524). Assistant Chief Operating Officer and interim HR Director Lisa Maher requested approval of a $318,500 sole-source consulting contract with Project Core for a three-phase, 20-week assessment of HR structure and processes, including discovery, current-state data gathering, payroll structure/process analysis, and a final prioritized report and roadmap. Funding would come from the executive leadership budget via salary savings. Staff stated no competitive bids were received; the consultant was selected through referrals from other entities, including Seattle SPD, and was sole-sourced. Finance Director Cochrane reported that payroll staff transitioned to the Finance Department on July 16, that the city has validated continuing with the UKG payroll implementation, and that staff are researching a managed-services payroll model. She stated a backward-looking forensic payroll audit would begin in early 2027 under a separate contract and would examine both pay accuracy and internal controls. Councilmember Parsi questioned how the assessment would inform specific decisions and, given the lack of a competitive bid and the scope, said he was not comfortable moving it to consent. Councilmember Prakriya noted the contract costs more than a year's FTE budget and that the contract language does not include an explicit deliverable ensuring every Redmond employee is paid fairly; he requested a list of other jurisdictions the consultant has assisted and clearer deliverables and scope definitions. Councilmember Forsyth confirmed the former HR director's short-term contract is limited to the new department reorganization proposal and a few legal trainings and ends this year. Council Vice President Nuevacamina asked about budget risk; staff noted the salary and benefit contingency totals $4 million ($2 million one-time and $2 million ongoing), with additional funds added due to uncertainty. Councilmember Sony questioned whether deep dives on only two of seven HR processes is sufficient scope; staff said the lighter-touch reviews can flag red flags for future work. Councilmember Parsi proposed exploring a policy to ensure timely pay and notification of affected employees when discrepancies are identified; Council President Stewart and Councilmember Forsyth supported the intent, with Forsyth requesting that time be built in for those policy conversations when the forensic audit returns. - 2027 Pay Plan Updates (CM 26-545). Staff presented the 2027 pay plans: all 17 union and non-represented pay plans receive the same 4.1% COLA (based on first-half CPI-W)—described as extremely rare—and there are no new classifications. The only changes are three classifications moving to higher bands in the executive and non-represented pay plans. The item had been proposed for the September 15 consent agenda. Councilmember Forsyth noted the draft ordinances still list former City Attorney Daniel Kinney and need updating. She stated the council is now one of the lowest-paid councils in the region, with the president and vice president both around $55,000, urged salary commissioners to reflect the co-led president/vice-president role, and argued a flat percentage raise is inequitable: a 4% increase on a salary around $174,000 is roughly $6,000, while on a salary around $30,000 it is roughly $1,000, compounding pay gaps over time. Council Vice President Nuevacamina asked whether market comparisons account for total compensation, noting that an FTE slotted at, for example, $120,000 costs the city just over $300,000 in total. Staff said the item could be approved in the November timeframe (targeting the November 10 budget adoption date), but that delaying compacts back-end work; pay plans must be in effect January 1, and the item is typically approved at the first meeting in December. Delaying would not affect negotiated increases, per Councilmember Forsyth's question. The committee chose to bring the item back for further discussion rather than move it to consent. - Update to Elected Official (EO) Pay Plan — Mayor's Salary (CM 26-538). Chief Operating Officer Melissa Files presented the biennial review required by Ordinance 3166, to be taken with the budget; no ordinance was attached because changes would be made through the budget process. The mayor's current salary is $173,914, plus a $500-per-month car allowance; the last increase was a 2.3% COLA in 2026. Comparables exclude Bellevue, Kirkland, and Bothell because they use city-manager forms of government. Options presented: a 4.1% COLA would raise the salary to approximately $181,000; the all-cities average would be approximately $195,000 (a 12% increase); and the match-cities average would be approximately $218,000 (a 25% increase). Files recommended the middle option—the all-cities average of approximately $195,000. Councilmember Sony asked that new council members receive more explanation of how the comparables are calculated, including budget and revenue factors. Councilmember Kritzer noted the last larger increase was in 2024, from $153,000 (2024) to $170,000 (2025). Council President Stewart stated her primary concern is ensuring all Redmond staff are being paid correctly and on time, and she wants to address that before continuing with this item. The committee decided to bring the item back for a future Finance, Administration, and Communications meeting—possibly a study session—and councilmembers may submit questions by email for a response matrix. - Respect, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (REDI) Program Update (CM 26-522) — Informational. REDI Program Administrator Teresa Lee reported that, as of August 26, 12 of 36 total REDI training sessions have been held (all 36 to be delivered by year-end); 48% of the workforce has either attended or signed up (33 attended and 15 signed up); and 65% of participants completed the post-training questionnaire. KPI reporting uses a top-two-box methodology (agree plus strongly agree) and a color-coded status key (on track, in progress, needs touch-in, not yet reported); current data reflects only training participants, not the full workforce. Strengths: 84% of respondents feel connected to their team and community, 83% feel connected to their immediate team, and 80% feel safe at work. Gaps: 34% witnessed a strong culture of respect in the workplace in the past 12 months, 40% reported leaders are held accountable for their actions, and 43% reported leaders follow through on commitments. Upcoming activities include Welcoming Week (September 10–19), with a city event on September 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Together Center featuring performances, food, and a panel with the mayor and community-based organization leaders; the Welcoming Redmond team's monthly meetings resume in September; and Lee is meeting with community-based organizations, the King County Library System, and regional equity-focused groups. Council Vice President Nuevacamina asked whether participation is top-down; staff said a director/leadership-focused REDI training will be held in September, with leader-specific data collected after it. Council President Stewart said the data reinforces the need to reinvest in the organizational health assessment and hopes it is in the preliminary budget next month; if not, the council may take it up. Key Outcomes - Moved to the September 15 consent agenda: CM 26-530 (Genetec support contract, $97,585) and CM 26-544 (RMC 9.30.060 housekeeping ordinance). - CM 26-524 (HR assessment consulting contract, $318,500) was placed on new business rather than consent; staff will provide additional information, including the consultant's prior jurisdictions and clearer deliverables and scope, before a vote. - CM 26-545 (2027 pay plan updates) and CM 26-538 (mayor's salary update) were held for further committee discussion, with a target of November for adoption decisions. - CM 26-523 (fully managed video production contract) was removed from the agenda and will appear at a future meeting. - The REDI program update was received as informational, with monthly reporting to continue.

The Redmond City Council held a regular business meeting on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included a presentation on Redmond Library updates, public comments from three residents, approval of the consent agenda, a staff report on citywide design standards updates, ombudsperson and committee reports, and approval of a new business item regarding a firefighter peer support training grant. The meeting concluded with a closed session for labor negotiations. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the August 3, 2026 special meeting. - Approved payroll/direct deposit and claims checks (Payroll Approval Registers for August 10 and August 25, 2026, and Check Approval Register for September 1, 2026). - Approved the King County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2027 Funding Allocation Plan (AM No. 26-127). The vote was 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Hank Myers addressed budget priorities. He advocated for reverting to the historic policy of placing all unspent funds into the capital fund, enforcing budget discipline among department heads, and fully funding police and fire departments. He noted that Redmond's police sworn officer ratio per capita is one-third that of Kirkland and claimed the city's pavement quality index is the lowest on the Eastside. He stated that Redmond has gone from "best of the best to worst of the worst." - Wolf Adriatico spoke about the new Teen Center project, stating that the estimated cost had risen from $11 million to $35 million and that the city plans to upscale the building from 8,600 to 20,000-25,000 square feet. He criticized Parks Director Lorreen Hamilton and Recreation Manager Erica Chua, using a derogatory term. Council President Stewart raised a point of order reminding speakers to be respectful. - David Morton requested three items be included in the 2027-2028 biennial budget: (1) soil and groundwater PFAS testing at the Evans Creek Relocation Project Area and the former Allwood Recycling Site; (2) funding for a city arborist position to provide independent review of tree reports; and (3) continued and strengthened funding for the environmental sustainability program. He acknowledged the mayor's proposed draft budget was not yet public. Discussion Items - Redmond Library Updates (Presentation) - Mary Comstock, Regional Manager for the Redmond Library, presented on the King County Library System (KCLS). In 2025, KCLS circulated 21 million items (11 million digital), ranking second in the U.S. and fourth in the world. A new book sorting system (opened August 19, 2026) sorts 8,000 items per hour. - Redmond Library specific data for 2025: nearly 1,800,000 items circulated (950,000 physical, 825,000 digital), with a retail replacement value of over $11.5 million. The library had almost 36,000 active patrons, 33,000 computer sessions, and 360,000 visits (average 131 people per hour). - 2026 program highlights included the Community Court and Resource Center (partnership with City and King County District Court), All Redmond Read featuring the graphic novel "We Are Not Strangers," Rainbow Connections (LGBTQ+ intergenerational program), teen advisory board (Red Tab), Soccer Watch Parties, story times, Talk Time and ELL classes, a welcoming ambassador for refugee/immigrant communities, and climate/sustainability programs (including recycling 3,000 pounds of e-waste). - Upcoming: Expanded hours (nights on Mondays, mornings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) and a centennial celebration in 2027 (working title "Daring to Dream since 1927"). - Council members expressed appreciation and asked questions about the book selection process (funded by Friends of the Redmond Library) and potential unmet needs. Councilmember Sony (online) inquired about partnership opportunities during budget constraints. Comstock indicated openness to collaboration and referenced the draft human services plan. - Citywide Design Standards Update (Staff Report) - Serife Allen (Interim Planning Director) and Odra Cardenas (Senior Planner) presented an update on the 2025-2026 citywide design standards project, a key implementation of Redmond 2050. - Project objectives: implement Redmond 2050 policies (sustainability, equity, resiliency); support shift from suburban to urban, walkable, transit-oriented patterns; test and align standards with city priorities; integrate new state requirements. - Completed work: comprehensive code audit, graphic prototype, and phase one testing. Findings: most design standards have minor effects on development yield; areas identified where standards are difficult to implement or don't produce intended outcomes; opportunities for flexibility (e.g., mass timber, green construction). - Ongoing work: code drafting, phase two testing, research on alternative design pathways (living building, universal design), illustration updates, and initial stakeholder engagement (online questionnaire through September, developer workshop in late 2026). - Timeline: Planning Commission review in early 2027, City Council action in Q2 2027. A subsequent phase on inclusive design and placemaking will follow. - Councilmember Kritzer asked about incorporating color and public art into standards; Cardenas confirmed they are being included. Councilmember Sony asked about including local small builders in developer workshops; Cardenas confirmed they would be included. - Ombudsperson Reports - Councilmember Prakriya (August): Reported numerous community inquiries: requests for PFAS testing and a city arborist; a council legislative policy analyst proposal; opposition to PSC rate increases; advocacy for funding community organizations and tenant protections; tree code concerns related to wildfire mitigation; Grasslawn tennis court usage; Bell-Red bike lane and Westlake Sammamish sidewalk feedback; commendation for the fire department; road conditions on NE Union Hill Road; concerns about Recology; and impacts of Gilman Street closures on businesses. - Councilmember Soni (September): Reported a resident email regarding project planning and construction timing that impacted the community, which was forwarded to staff. - Additional reports from Council President Stewart (National Night Out, concerns about roads/sidewalks/ADA ramps, ALPR timeline, special meetings in September), Council Vice President Nuevacamina (National Night Out, tenant protections, Recology vs. Waste Management, light rail love, Rockin' on the River, mini sweeper ride along, reminder not to park in bike lanes), Councilmember Forsyth (National Night Out, support for MHP program, ADA issues, Westlake Sammamish traffic, street closures, Health Through Housing resident coordination, Move Redmond Open Streets, Port of Seattle event, Eastside housing conversation with small nonprofits, Flock camera HOA request), and Councilmember Kritzer (office hours on ADA projects, safety, parking permits, event impacts on businesses, PFAS impacts on waterways, Flock camera support, police tech questions, Norman Rockwell construction, Rockin' on the River concerts). - Committee Reports - Councilmember Kritzer: Kokanee Management Committee (approved updated budget for Kokanee ILA including science-based practices and emergency voting procedures), RIA 8 Management Committee (reviewed upcoming budget), One Redmond network (discussed strategic items with new lobbyist), Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (finalized unanimous recommendations for grant distributions to community events and city events, to come before Council). - Councilmember Forsyth: East Trail Regional Council (planning for next quarterly meeting and future vision). - Council Vice President Nuevacamina: Disability Board (regular business and language changes for retirees). - Mayor Birney: Hosted National League of Cities housing tour in Redmond, showcasing the Together Center, Plymouth, and Prisma projects. - New Business: FY24 Assistance to Firefighters Grant – Joint Peer Support Training MOU Amendment (AM No. 26-129) - Deputy Fire Chief Jim Whitney presented the request. The City of Bothell withdrew from a federal grant due to an ongoing RFA, allowing Redmond to join. The grant will provide training for 18 new peer support team members (initial and continuing education) and additional critical incident debriefing training. The city's cost is approximately $7,500, already budgeted in the peer support line item. The amendment to the MOU was approved by a 7-0 vote. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda (including minutes, payroll, and CDBG funding allocation) was approved unanimously (7-0). - The amendment to the MOU for the FY24 Assistance to Firefighters Grant for joint peer support training (AM No. 26-129) was approved unanimously (7-0). - The Redmond Library will expand hours in 2026 and will celebrate its centennial in 2027 with a year-long program. - The citywide design standards update is on track for Planning Commission review in early 2027 and City Council action in Q2 2027; staff will engage developers and the community in the interim. - The Council received reports on community concerns and committee activities; no further action was taken on those items. - The meeting adjourned to a closed session for labor negotiations lasting 20 minutes (RCW 42.30.140(4)(b)).

On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, the Redmond City Council Committee of the Whole – Planning and Public Works convened at 4:30 PM to discuss 11 agenda items. The meeting included seven action items directed to the September 15 consent agenda, a new business item approving a fire grant, feedback for a September 22 study session on the Housing and Human Services Action Plan, and two informational items. All action items were recommended for approval without objection. Consent Calendar - Integrity Energy Service (IES) Final Contract and Construction Acceptance – Sustainability LED Lighting Retrofit (CM 26-540): Staff reported the project completed City Hall LED lighting upgrades, meeting new clean building energy standards and saving approximately $28,000 annually (9% reduction in energy costs). A final energy audit will be conducted in about one year; the contractor guarantees savings and will cover any shortfall. Moved to consent for September 15. - Osborn Consulting Agreement – Wastewater Pipe Rehab 2 (CM 26-536): A consultant agreement for $317,000 to rehabilitate 6,400 feet of aging wastewater mains along Avondale Way and Woodinville-Redmond Road NE using cured-in-place pipe. Total project funding increased to approximately $2 million to avoid costly multiple mobilizations. Moved to consent for September 15. - Washington Conservation Corps (WCC) 2026-27 Interlocal Agreement (CM 26-532): A $344,246 agreement funded by stormwater operations for a six-member crew for 46 weeks, plus one individual for four weeks. The program, subsidized by AmeriCorps ($89,000 estimated support), maintains 83 completed habitat restoration sites and supports volunteer events. Moved to consent for September 15. - Alpha Developer, LLC Final Contract – Fire Station 17 Siding Replacement (CM 26-534): A $916,127 contract (under $1.2 million budget by $90,000) to replace weather barrier and siding after moisture intrusion was found. The project faced a three-month delay due to a material order issue. Lessons learned include stricter envelope inspections. Moved to consent for September 15. - 2026-27 Go Redmond King County Metro Contract Renewal (CM 26-541): A $176,500 agreement for transportation demand management (TDM) programs, including residential outreach, ORCA card distribution, and pilot interventions. Council provided feedback on expanding ORCA card availability. Moved to consent for September 15. - Transpo Group Consultant Agreement – ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan (CM 26-526): A $330,000 consultant agreement (with a $200,000 increase from the Transportation Benefit District) to conduct a federally required ADA transition plan for the public right-of-way. The work includes data collection, policy review, and public engagement. Council discussed the use of 'assumptions' in the scope but agreed to move forward without contract changes. Moved to consent for September 15. - 2026 Community Stability Funding Recommendations (CM 26-519): Staff recommended allocating $439,469 from the $1.4 million fund to 10 programs providing financial assistance, food assistance, and legal services, with $7,531 carried forward into 2027 for potential capital or equipment needs. Council requested additional context on funding decisions and noted a potential recusal for one councilmember. Moved to consent for September 15. New Business Approval - FY24 Assistance to Firefighters Grant – Joint Peer Support Training MOU Amendment (CM 26-546): The committee approved authorizing the mayor to execute an amendment for a regional peer support training program in partnership with Bellevue, Eastside Fire & Rescue, Kirkland Fire, and Shoreline Fire. Redmond’s financial responsibility is $7,653, covered by existing budget. The grant provides training for 18 new peer support members and continuing education. Councilmembers expressed support and confirmed no value conflicts. The item was directed to the September 1 business meeting for approval. Discussion Items - Housing and Human Services Action Plan (CM 26-527): Staff presented a combined plan updating the 2021 Housing Action Plan and 2022 Human Services Strategic Plan, focusing on building more housing, keeping people housed, and strengthening communities. The plan incorporates over 1,000 points of community engagement. Councilmembers requested measurable goals with timeframes, clarification on new versus expanded efforts, integration with existing plans, and details on the new affordable housing development fund. The study session is scheduled for September 22; councilmembers were asked to submit questions by end of day Thursday, September 3. Key Outcomes - All seven action items (CM 26-540, 536, 532, 534, 541, 526, 519) were directed to the consent agenda for the September 15, 2026 business meeting. - The Fire grant amendment (CM 26-546) was approved for the September 1 business meeting. - The Community Stability Fund balance of $7,531 will be carried forward into 2027, with further council discussion on its use to occur later. - Council will provide feedback on the Housing and Human Services Action Plan by September 3, with a study session set for September 22 and potential consent agenda on October 6. - Informational items on 2026 Amendments to King County Countywide Planning Policies and the Stormwater and Surface Water System Plan Progress Update were noted; questions to be directed to staff.

The Redmond Planning Commission met on August 12, 2026, to discuss a study session on the proposed tree code update, a briefing on the combined Housing and Human Services Action Plan, and a study session on updates to the commission’s rules of procedure. The meeting also included public comment and staff updates. No formal votes were taken on the discussion items, but direction was given for further refinement of the tree code and rules. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda for August 12, 2026. - Approval of the meeting minutes from July 22, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - David Morton (Redmond 98053) expressed concerns that the draft tree code allows applicant-hired arborists to make key technical decisions (hazard tree determinations, tree protection zone adjustments, exception requests, and final compliance reports) without independent city verification. He requested the commission support a city arborist budget for the 2027–2028 biennium and incorporate mandatory city-directed spot verification into the code. Discussion Items Tree Code Update (Study Session) - Presentation by Lauren Anderson and Cameron Zapata: - The tree code update began in February 2026, with version 2 (V2) now posted. Community engagement yielded 60 responses via the Let’s Connect questionnaire. Key changes include new sections for landmark/heritage trees, public trees, minimum tree credits, protection standards, and enforcement. - Tree retention shifts from a 35% calculation to a credit-based system tied to canopy, site area, zone, and project type. Conifers receive 1.5 credits; deciduous trees get 1.0 credit. Minimum 35% of required credits must come from retained trees. Replacement requirements are based on diameter at breast height (DBH): 6–15 inches = 1:1, 16–29 inches = 2:1, 30+ inches = 3:1, with additional replacements for larger trees. - In-lieu fees proposed: significant trees $1,300, landmark $3,000, heritage $5,000. - Tree protection zones (TPZ) defined as 1 foot per inch DBH, adjustable only by a qualified arborist. Scenarios illustrated for hazard tree removal, view-based removal, and ADU development. - Commissioner Feedback: - Commissioner Van Nyman questioned whether fees for heritage tree removal are too low, emphasizing avoidance over mitigation. Wanted assurance that exception criteria are stringent. - Commissioner Copley asked about segmentation of conifer species (dwarf vs. large) and their ecological value. - Commissioner Parna inquired about capacity for off-site planting and asked for clearer linkage to city planting locations. - Commissioner Coleman sought clarification on replacement requirements when a single tree is removed. - Commissioner Gagnier advocated for higher penalties and enforcement against both property owners and arborists who violate the code. - Vice Chair Woodyer stressed the need to balance mitigation funding with deterrence. - Chair Weston suggested adding user‑friendly headlines and redefining DBH and heritage tree terms in each section. - Next steps: V3 will incorporate feedback and be released in September; planning commission recommendation process begins September 23. Housing and Human Services Action Plan (Briefing) - Presentation by Ian Lefcourt: - The plan combines the former Housing Action Plan and Human Services Strategic Plan. It addresses housing stability by integrating services such as food assistance, financial coaching, and support for homelessness. - Key data: 73% of net new housing needs (≈20,000 units) must be affordable to households earning ≤50% AMI. Redmond has a 38% tree canopy (2019) and a goal of 40% by 2050. The city has seen canopy loss in neighborhood multifamily, residential, and Overlake Village zones. - Three pillars: Get and Keep People Housed, Build More Housing Faster, Connect and Strengthen Communities. Focus on cost-controlled, income-restricted units. - Community engagement: 35 respondents on Let’s Connect, 16 focus groups, email from libraries and service providers. - Timeline: Adoption anticipated early October 2026. - Commissioner Feedback: - Commissioner Copley asked about precedent for combining plans; staff noted Bellevue’s separate but linked plans. - Commissioner Parna emphasized need for clear pathways for direct investment in very low‑AMI projects. - Commissioner Gagnier asked about rent stabilization measures; staff indicated ambition but noted city council review. - Commissioner Van Nyman requested more specific criteria for how the city evaluates fairness and targets assistance. - Commissioner Coleman raised the issue of housing for essential workers and ability to live in the community. - Chair Weston suggested the city gather data on occupancy and turnover in apartment buildings to monitor hidden costs. Planning Commission Rules of Procedure (Study Session) - Presentation by Jeff Churchill: - Proposed updates focus on attendance, lobbying, public participation, and records. Key issue: excused vs. unexcused absences. - Commissioner Discussion: - Chair Weston proposed eliminating the excused/unexcused distinction and making attendance records simply “absent.” If a commissioner misses 3 consecutive meetings or 25% of meetings per year, staff would automatically notify the mayor for review. - Commissioners concurred, preferring a collegial approach rather than votes on removal. - Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA): Chair Weston asked about talking to council members about council business. Churchill clarified that planning commissioners should use personal accounts and avoid becoming a conduit for serial meetings (e.g., sharing one council member’s views with another). - Next steps: The rules update will be held over to the September meeting for final staff review and a vote. Key Outcomes - Tree Code Update: No formal action; direction given for V3 to incorporate commissioner feedback, with a focus on avoidance for heritage trees, improved clarity, and stronger enforcement. - Housing and Human Services Action Plan: No vote required; commissioners provided input that will be considered for the final plan. - Planning Commission Rules: No vote; the attendance policy proposal and OPMA clarifications will be revisited in September. - Staff Updates: - The August 26 meeting is canceled. The next meeting on September 9 will welcome new youth advisors and include briefings on design standards and the urban mixed-use master plan. - City Council established the 2026–2027 annual comprehensive plan amendment docket (August 3) and adopted changes to the multifamily tax exemption program, adding a 12-year extension for a potential total 20 years. - Applications for an open planning commission seat (vacant in October) are posted on the website.