Public Meetings - Redmond, Washington

The Committee of the Whole for Planning and Public Works met on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 4:30 PM at Redmond City Hall. The meeting covered six agenda items: five action items (including the comprehensive plan docket, noise standards, and three public works contracts) and one informational update on the 156th Avenue NE Shared-Use Path. All council members were present. Key outcomes included direction to move several items to consent agendas, with the noise standards delayed pending a SEPA appeal. Consent Calendar - Establishing the 2026-27 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket – Staff presented five city-initiated amendments. Council inquired about private applications; only one informal housing displacement proposal was not recommended by the Planning Commission. Council unanimously agreed to send the docket to consent on August 3rd. - Approve General Services Agreement with Technical Systems Inc. (TSI) – For the Control System and Telemetry Upgrade Phase 4 Project ($2.4 million, sole source). Councilmember Sony questioned the contingency amount; staff committed to follow up. No other objections. Sent to consent for July 21st. - Approve Final Contract with Coast to Coast Turf LLC and Accept Construction – For Grass Lawn Multi-Use Field 1 and Hartman Park Baseball Infield Synthetic Turf Replacement. Under budget by $700,000. Features Redmond's first cricket practice pitch. Sent to consent for July 21st. - Award Construction Contract for Willows Road Watermain Extension and Increase Funding – Contract awarded to Earthworks Solutions for $1,323,740 with a $264,000 funding increase to restore full contingency. Council President Stewart supported the future-proofing. Councilmember Sony asked about penalties in the interlocal agreement with Kirkland (none known). Sent to consent for July 21st. Discussion Items - Amendments to RMC 6.36 Noise Standards – Director Hollard presented updates including allowing shooting sports facilities via a development agreement (instead of a mitigation agreement) and differentiated property maintenance hours for owners vs. contractors. Noted that the Interlake Sporting Association (ISA) appealed the SEPA determination of non-significance on June 24th. Council discussed leaf blowers: staff recommended against regulation at this time due to technology limitations and city usage. Councilmember Parcy proposed extending Saturday hours to 5 PM for ISA, but only two members supported. Councilmember Kritzer affirmed the existing draft. No formal vote; direction was to proceed after the SEPA appeal is resolved. Staff will return with the appeal decision, then the noise code for consent. - Update on 156th Avenue NE Shared-Use Path at 60% Design – Staff reported 139 trees will be removed, with 146 mitigation trees required. Design efforts saved 15 trees by splitting the path around PSE poles. Tree species selection will prioritize survivability and appropriate screening. Council praised the thorough tree analysis and transparency. No action required; update received. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Items: Four items (comprehensive plan docket, TSI agreement, turf replacement, watermain extension) were directed to consent agendas on August 3rd or July 21st. - Noise Standards: Held pending SEPA appeal; final action delayed until after the hearing examiner's recommendation and council decision on the appeal. The development agreement approach was endorsed but not finalized. - Informational: The 156th Avenue path design update was received; no further action at this time. - Meeting Adjourned at approximately 5:00 PM.

This is a summary of the Redmond Planning Commission meeting held on June 25, 2026. The transcript references June 10, 2026, but per the official record the meeting date is June 25, 2026. The meeting covered approval of the annual comprehensive plan docket and the 2026 code cleanup package, along with public comments and staff updates. Consent Calendar - Approved the amended agenda (moving item 5 and 7, fixing a numbering typo) unanimously. - Approved the meeting minutes from June 10, 2026 (as referenced in transcript) unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - David Morton (Redmond 98053) commented on PFAS contamination risks to drinking water wells from industrial rezoning, particularly near critical aquifer recharge areas (CARAs). He requested environmental scrutiny, hydrogeologic modeling, and pre-construction baseline testing of monitoring well 25 using EPA Method 1633. - David Morton also commented on the 2026 code cleanup: he questioned the removal of the comprehensive plan as an independent consistency criterion (RZC 21.76.070B) and asked if the comprehensive plan would still serve as interpretive guidance. He also noted the 20% residential open space requirement (RZC 21.36.300C) was accidentally omitted and asked how long it was absent and if any projects were reviewed without it. Discussion Items - 2026-2027 Annual Comprehensive Plan Docket - Staff (Glenn Coyle) requested closure of written public comment, a vote on the recommendation to approve the docket, and approval of the draft report. All items were approved unanimously. - 2026 Annual Code Cleanup - Staff (Lauren Alpert) presented the issues matrix addressing commissioners' questions: - Development agreements: clarified voluntary nature and binding effect. - Open space: clarified that public right-of-way and sidewalks cannot count toward required open space; only dedicated open space counts. - Parking confusion: resolved. - Sustainability regulations: no change in intent. - Removal of comprehensive plan from RZC 21.76: staff explained that the Growth Management Act and Redmond Zoning Code already implement the comprehensive plan, and that legislative intent (RZC 21.02) will be added to the record to clarify that the comprehensive plan guides interpretation when the code is silent. - Commissioner Van Nyman expressed satisfaction with the explanation. - The commission voted to create a recommendation and report approving the 2026 annual code cleanup (unanimous). - The commission also voted to cancel the July 8 study session and approve the report at the July 22 meeting (unanimous). Key Outcomes - Vote on 2026-2027 Annual Comprehensive Plan Docket: Motion to approve the recommendation and report passed unanimously. - Vote on 2026 Annual Code Cleanup: Motion to create a recommendation and report approving the cleanup passed unanimously. - Meeting Cancellation: The July 8, 2026 study session will be cancelled; the code cleanup report will be finalized on July 22, 2026. - Staff Updates: - Speed study survey and interactive map for pedestrian/bicycle/speeding issues. - Tree code update (Let's Connect Redmond). - Grid capacity study presented to City Council. - Temporary non-commercial signs: Council adopted Planning Commission's recommendation to prohibit signs in roundabouts, permit in medians, and not implement a permit system now (may revisit). - New state e-bike law (Commissioner Coleman raised). - Welcome to new commissioners joining. Note: The meeting transcript states June 10, 2026, but the official meeting date per instruction is June 25, 2026. Discrepancy noted.

This study session of the Redmond City Council convened at 7:00 PM on June 23, 2026. Councilmembers present included Vice President Nuevacamina (presiding), Forsythe, Parsi, Prakriya, and Soni; President Stewart attended online from the Association of Washington Cities conference. Councilmember Kritzer was excused, and Mayor Birney was absent. The agenda included three items: a presentation on the joint Redmond‑Bellevue electric grid capacity study, proposed amendments to the Redmond Zoning Code (RZC) for temporary non‑commercial signs, and council talk time. Joint Redmond and Bellevue Electric Grid Capacity Study Sustainability Program Manager Jenny Liebeck, co‑lead Glenn Coyle, and AECOM consultants Aaron Cherry and Kenton Phillips presented findings from a year‑long collaborative study with the City of Bellevue and Puget Sound Energy (PSE). The study assessed the capacity of Redmond’s local electric distribution system through 2045, driven by growth (Redmond 2050) and electrification goals. Key findings included a projected 70% increase in electricity demand by 2050, with substation capacity sufficient for the next ten years but three of Redmond’s 12 substations (Avondale, Redmond, and Spirit Brook) expected to exceed capacity by 2045. PSE’s planned upgrades at four substations (Hollywood, Rose Hill, Totem Lake, Union Hill) were assumed on schedule. Sensitivity analysis identified population growth and electrification as the primary demand drivers; large loads like data centers were excluded but noted for future coordination. The study produced ten recommendations in three categories: harmonized forecasting and joint planning, streamlined regulatory processes and implementation, and strengthened grid flexibility and resilience. Councilmembers discussed cost burdens (deferred to PSE rate‑setting), the role of distributed energy resources, the timeline for an “electrify everything” policy (no barriers identified), undergrounding for resilience, and equipment failures (40% of outages). All speakers stressed the importance of continued collaboration with PSE. RZC Amendments: Temporary Non‑Commercial Signs Planning Director Carol Helland, Lauren Alpert, Jeff Churchill, and Planning Commission Chair Susan Weston presented proposed code changes to make the city’s sign regulations content‑neutral, as required by 2015 and 2022 Supreme Court decisions. The amendments would regulate temporary non‑commercial signs (political, community event, and philosophical/religious messages). Staff recommended a permit system (60 days, renewable) to aid enforcement and reduce clutter, while the Planning Commission recommended no permits, allowing signs in medians and roundabouts, and relying on periodic sweeps. Council debate centered on enforcement burden, free‑speech implications, the feasibility of permitting, and safety (particularly in roundabouts vs. medians). Councilmember Forsythe, Prakriya, and others expressed concerns that a permit system would punish good actors while being ineffective against bad actors. Chair Weston noted that the permit system could chill speech and would be difficult to enforce. After extensive discussion, the council directed staff to bring forward the Planning Commission’s recommendation (no permit requirement, signs allowed in medians but prohibited in roundabouts) for adoption on the July 21 consent agenda, with an effective date of January 1, 2027. The permitting issue will be brought back separately for further consideration, including coordination with neighboring cities. Council Talk Time Councilmember Parsi raised interest in a council conversation about data center policy in Redmond, citing the grid study’s exclusion of such loads and Seattle’s recent decisions. Several councilmembers expressed support for exploring the topic, with the expectation it could be addressed at a future retreat. Council President Stewart reminded members of recent documents (Matrix Consulting development services study and data‑sharing agreement information) and noted that council responses to three public records requests are due by June 30. She also announced there will be no council meeting on June 30 (fifth Tuesday of the month). Councilmember Parsi further proposed stronger partnership with the Lake Washington School District, building on a joint session held in 2025; the idea was generally welcomed and may be discussed at the early‑2027 retreat. Councilmember Forsythe reminded everyone of the “Meet Me at Marymoor” event (July 19, free but ticketed, likely to sell out) and the council store deadline of June 30. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the grid capacity study; the council directed staff to continue strengthening coordination with PSE and to pursue a pilot project for substation upgrades. - For the sign code amendments, the council directed staff to bring the Planning Commission’s recommendation (no permits, no signs in roundabouts, signs allowed in medians) to the July 21 consent agenda, effective January 1, 2027. Staff will return later with a separate proposal on the permitting system. - Council expressed interest in discussing data center policy and in enhancing collaboration with the Lake Washington School District; both topics will be considered during future planning sessions.

The Parks and Environmental Sustainability (PES) Committee of the Whole met on June 23, 2026, at 4:30 PM at Redmond City Hall. Council Vice President Angie Nuevacamina served as presiding officer in place of Councilmember Menka Soni, who attended online. Councilmembers Jessica Forsythe and Sayna Parsi attended in person; Councilmembers Vivek Prakriya and Melissa Stuart attended online; Councilmember Vanessa Kritzer was excused by a vote of 6–0. The meeting covered four agenda items: a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Eastrail Regional Advisory Council, an update on Environmental Sustainability Action Plan (ESAP) partnerships, a second discussion on grant thresholds, and a technology services update from the Technology and Information Services (TIS) department. Consent Calendar - Memorandum of Understanding with Eastrail Regional Advisory Council (CM 26-399): The proposed MOU update is administrative, reflecting the departure of the East Side Greenway Alliance from the RAC, as agreed by consensus in October 2025. Council directed staff to place this item on the consent agenda for the July 7, 2026 business meeting for approval. - Grant Threshold Resolution (CM 26-403): After discussion, council agreed to send the amended resolution (amending Resolution No. 1503) to the consent agenda for the July 7 business meeting, contingent on settling the notification procedure (see Key Outcomes). Discussion Items Environmental Sustainability Action Plan Partnerships Overview (Informational, CM 26-394) Sustainability Manager Jenny Leibeck and Coordinator Valeria Costgrove presented a partnership strategy to connect climate programs to the community. Key points: - The ESAP refresh revealed that residents wanted trusted, community-led ways to participate in climate action. - The city allocated approximately $40,000 in grant funding and $5,000 in city funding to paid nonprofit partnerships, plus dedicated staff capacity. - Partners include El Centro Cultural Mexicano, United Hub, and the Redmond Library. - Outcomes include translated e-news, Spanish radio episodes, upcycling workshops, e-bike safety classes, the Redmond Climate Action Group, and the Green Redmond park restoration event. - Survey data from events: 75% of attendees came because of their connection to partner organizations, not initial interest in sustainability, and 75% reported feeling that individual actions can make a difference. - Future plans: second annual Thrift & Threads Festival, an emergency preparedness fair, and youth engagement through the Youth Climate Action Fund. - Councilmember Forsythe expressed appreciation for the Eastside Greenway Alliance’s long-term commitment. Councilmembers Stewart, Parsi, Sony, and Nuevacamina praised the approach and asked about expanding partnerships to businesses, schools, and wealthier demographics, as well as budget sustainability and measurable metrics. Staff noted that behavior change is hard to measure but they track workshop attendance and conduct pre/post surveys. They confirmed baseline funding exists to continue partnerships if grants are not renewed. Grant Threshold (Second Touch, CM 26-403) Lauren Thompson, Grant Supervisor, presented the draft amendment to Resolution No. 1503, which adds a $50,000 contract threshold for grants that meet exception criteria (no matching funds beyond appropriations, no new ongoing staffing or operating costs, no new programs/technology/policy, and no council acceptance required). Staff proposed quarterly summaries to the FAC (Finance, Administration, and Communications) chair. Council discussed whether the FAC chair alone should review or the full council. - Councilmember Forsythe raised concerns about checks and balances, noting quarterly reports may be too late to flag issues. - Councilmember Prakriya asked if any council member could flag a grant; staff affirmed that any council member could bring concerns. - Councilmember Parsi suggested emailing the entire council instead of just the FAC chair, to ensure transparency and avoid OPMA concerns. - Council President Stewart supported the legislation and noted that the notification procedure should not be in the legislation itself but agreed emailing the full council is acceptable. - Councilmember Sony noted a discrepancy in staff time cost estimates ($3,411.95 vs $3,759); staff clarified the final number is $3,411.95 based on updated finance calculations. - Consensus: Staff will notify the entire council via email before executing grants under the threshold, and any council member can raise concerns. The item will proceed to consent on July 7. 2026 TIS Infrastructure and Operations Update (Informational, CM 26-372) Jose May, TIS Infrastructure and Operations Manager, presented an overview. Key points: - IO manages the city’s technology backbone: over 1,000 computers, 500 mobile devices, 200 servers, and 5.2 petabytes of data traversing the private network each quarter. - Recent project: rollout of Microsoft Copilot Chat after reviewing security, privacy, and governance. - Resilience investments: Starlink proof of concept at fire stations, expanded mobile operations. - Councilmember Parsi requested written materials in future packets for better preparation. Councilmember Forsythe asked about other low‑earth orbit (LEO) options beyond Starlink; staff said Starlink is most mature but they stay informed of alternatives. Councilmember Prakriya asked about regional cooperation; staff noted collaboration with Kirkland and Bellevue and a fiber link project, but shared cloud resources are less feasible due to usage-based costs. Councilmember Parsi inquired about AI policy; staff explained that an internal acceptable use policy for AI is in development and has undergone legal review. - The presentation was informational; no action requested. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Kritzer Excused: Motion passed 6–0 (one absent). - Eastrail MOU: Placed on consent for July 7 business meeting. - Grant Threshold Resolution: Placed on consent for July 7 business meeting, with the understanding that staff will email the full council quarterly with summaries of grants executed under delegated authority, and any council member may flag a grant for discussion. - ESAP Partnerships & TIS Updates: Received as information; no votes taken.

The Redmond City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting featured an American Public Works Association (APWA) accreditation presentation, extensive public testimony on a proposed noise ordinance for the ISA shooting range, approval of a consent agenda, and a staff report on the transition of waste hauling services from Waste Management to Recology. Consent Calendar - Approved by a 7–0 voice vote. Items included: - Approval of minutes from the June 2, 2026 regular meeting. - Approval of payroll/direct deposit and claims checks (May 29, June 10, June 16, 2026). - Appointment and reappointments to the Community Facilities District (CFD) 2016-01 Board of Supervisors (AM No. 26-093). - Acceptance of a $20,000 Port of Seattle Tourism Advertising Grant (AM No. 26-094). - Authorization to accept Washington State Department of Commerce grant funding for the Redmond Asbestos Cement Pipe Replacement Project (AM No. 26-095). - Award of a construction contract to Earthworks Solutions, LLC for the ADA Curb Ramp 2026 Project, $1,832,795 (AM No. 26-096). - Award of a construction contract to NPM Construction for the NE 70th Shared Use Path Project, $602,756, and a consultant services agreement supplement with Perteet, $47,156 (AM No. 26-097). - Approval of the Redmond Historical Society Lease Agreement (AM No. 26-098). - Approval of a consulting services contract for the State Lobbyist Agreement with Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Affairs, $79,338 (AM No. 26-099). - Approval of Enterprise Content Management (ECM) selection consulting services with SoftResources, $64,750 (AM No. 26-100). - Councilmember Kritzer commented on item 8 (Historical Society lease), expressing support and hope for longer-term options beyond two years. Public Comments & Testimony Twenty people signed up to speak in person. The vast majority addressed the proposed noise ordinance amendments for the ISA shooting range. Key positions included: - Victoria Kitts – Expressed concerns about communication and accountability during the Norman Rockwell Elementary reconstruction project, citing sleep disruption from overnight lighting and noise. - Sapria Krishnan – Requested continuation of the 50+ pickleball program, noting its importance for seniors, including a grandmother who called it “her me time” and a woman who returned to play after chemotherapy. - Aaron Hamilton – Thanked Redmond Police and city officials for supporting the first LGBTQ+ community event with police; noted receiving hate from within the community but committed to continued outreach. - Jim Hartle (Willows Crest HOA Vice President) – Supported the proposed noise ordinance hours, stated it is not about gun rights but about being a good neighbor; described sudden, jarring gunfire impacting health and enjoyment of homes; said ISA has increased operations over the years. - Ann and Dan Borman – Supported weekday 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.–2 p.m. hours; described being unable to entertain on their deck due to noise; asked council not to delay the hours portion. - Larry Dime – Echoed support for reasonable hours; noted increased noise over 22 years of residency. - Scott Farrell – Appealed emotionally, describing gunfire as an “uninvited guest” disrupting family gatherings year-round, including holidays. - Regina Ball – Asked for the noise ordinance to improve quality of life and reduce stress for dogs and nervous systems. - Gonzalo Asaza – Seconded neighbors’ comments; said shooting makes home office and deck use impossible. - Azim Gulam – Asked council to move forward with the ordinance without delay; supported both hours and eventual mitigation. - Mark Epstein – Presented a computer simulation of neighborhood sound; argued gunfire triggers autonomic stress responses; noted ISA is the only outdoor range in a residential zone in western Washington. - Peter Jarvis (ISA representative) – Stated ISA has voluntarily cut activity over 90% since 1993, restricted calibers, and proposed a development agreement; cautioned that a quick fix might not reduce noise. - Wolf Adriatico – Criticized city’s handling of the old firehouse teen center demolition; asked for honesty about whether a new teen center will be built. - John Oftebro (Redmond Historical Society President) – Thanked city for support and space at the old Redmond Schoolhouse; noted the new space is 20% smaller and lease is only two years; highlighted 2025-2026 activities including 495 in-person attendees at Saturday series + 493 online viewers. - Jeff Cairns – Supported noise ordinance amendments; said ISA should not get special treatment. - Mariana Kalisova – Supported operating hour reduction; described fear when walking her dog with gunfire causing elevated heart rate. - David Morton (unincorporated King County resident) – Supported a sales tax for police staffing; cited Redmond’s ratio of 1.12 officers per 1,000 residents (30% below peer cities) and the need to act before the June 30, 2028 grant deadline. - Isaukon – Briefly supported ordinance, calling some gunfire “bazooka” sounds. - Karina Suklan – Asked for noise regulation, not closure, with restricted hours and no shooting on public holidays. - Maya Koyazo – Described living next to the range; requested reduced hours and hoped for eventual relocation. Discussion Items - APWA Accreditation Presentation – Mayor Birney recognized the Public Works Department’s effort to achieve accreditation. Tina Nelson, APWA Region 9 Director, reported the department achieved 98% full compliance across 376 practices and was granted full accreditation. Two model practices were recognized: equipment/fleet replacement analysis and street cleaning environmental compliance (decant facility). Redmond joins 230 accredited agencies in the U.S. and Canada. A plaque was presented. - Waste Hauler Contract Transition from Waste Management to Recology – Utilities Manager Aaron Moldver and Solid Waste Program Administrator Jesse Dunbar presented. Recology began service January 1, 2026. Key stats: rates increased 20% over WM (WM had proposed 100%), and Redmond’s 32-gallon cart rates are third lowest in King County. Missed collections average 0.37 per 1,000 homes (94/month) versus WM’s 98/month. Early morning collection issues were resolved; exception zones established on Willows Road, near Costco, and Microsoft campus. Cart replacements have been slow but improving. The Recology Store has collected nearly two tons of Styrofoam, a ton of batteries, etc. Diversion rate increased nearly 4% since January. The city launched Wastebuster AI sorting assistant. Residents should contact Recology first, then Jesse Dunbar for unresolved issues. - Ombudsperson Reports – Councilmember Forsythe (May) had no updates. Councilmember Soni (June) reported correspondence including a letter from firefighters on administrative concerns, inquiries about multifamily tax exemption, concerns about detention facility siting, and other items. Other councilmembers shared updates on community events, the World Cup planning, and the East Rail Corridor letter. - Committee Reports – Councilmembers reported on: - Sound Cities Association Public Issues Committee (PIC) – King County Solid Waste proposing 8.5% fee increase (63% cumulative 2028–2032). - Tenant Protection Subcommittee – Met June 16, preparing items for study session July 14. - Public Safety and Human Services Committee – Discussed MFTE tax exemption amendments; moved five items to consent. - Finance, Administration, and Communications Committee – Reviewed budget ground rules and long-range financial strategy. - King County Transportation District adopted a new sales tax (effective Jan 1, 2027) with 12.5% potentially returning to cities. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved unanimously (7–0). - No ordinances or resolutions were adopted; the noise ordinance discussion will continue at the Planning and Public Works Committee on July 7, 2026. - The waste hauler update was informational; no vote taken. - Council received reports and correspondence; committee reports were noted.

The City of Redmond's Committee of the Whole for Public Safety and Human Services convened on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 4:33 p.m. (agenda start 4:30 p.m.) at City Hall (15670 NE 85th St). Presiding Officer Vivek Prakriya led the meeting with Council President Melissa Stuart, Council Vice President Angie Nuevacamina, and Council Members Jessica Forsythe, Vanessa Kritzer, Sayna Parsi, and Menka Soni present. The committee considered six action items intended for the July 7 consent agenda and one informational report. No public comment period was held. Consent Calendar - Memorandum of Understanding for Behavioral Health Crisis Intervention Services (CM 26-4021) – Police Chief and Dispatch Manager Corey James presented a partnership with Crisis Connections. Trained behavioral health specialists will assist Redmond dispatchers via warm transfers for non-emergency behavioral health 911 calls. Funded by King County at no cost to the city. Committee advanced to July 7 consent. - On-Call Legal Services Agreement with Baker, Sterchi, Cowden & Rice, LLC (CM 26-3952) – Police Department presented a contract amendment reflecting a name change and market rate fee adjustments ($50/hour increase for associates, $100/hour for senior partners) within the existing $200,000 budget. Chief noted this is only the second rate increase in seven years; the budget has not been exhausted. Committee advanced to July 7 consent. - Accept Safe Streets For All (SS4A) Grant Funding from FHWA (CM 26-3974) – Senior Planning Engineer Micah Ross reported a $300,000 federal grant with $883,000 in matching funds for quick-build traffic calming and pedestrian safety improvements on NE 85th Street, 161st Avenue, NE 79th Street, and 188th Avenue. City attorney reviewed for executive order compliance and found no concerns. Committee advanced to July 7 consent. - Consultant Agreement with Shrewsberry & Associates for the Overlake Area Bicycle and Pedestrian Project (CM 26-3985) – $971,000 contract for engineering/design of the 148th Ave shared use path and NE 36th St bike lanes, with $8 million in state funding. Councilmember Forsyth voiced support but urged clear communication on future extension beyond the Microsoft frontage; staff noted sections north of NE 40th St are in the TMP for 5–10 year implementation. Committee advanced to July 7 consent. - Consultant Agreement for Feasibility Study of Fire Station 11 (CM 26-4016) – Deputy Chief Ami Varrell presented a $125,000 agreement with TCA Architecture to evaluate renovation/rebuild options for the downtown station, including site assessments, operational analysis, and cost estimates. Councilmembers encouraged evaluating co-location with affordable housing and a "world-class" workplace. Committee advanced to July 7 consent. Discussion Items - 2026 Amendments to RMC 3.38 Multifamily Housing Property Tax Exemption (CM 26-3923) – Planning staff (Ian Lefcourt, Jeff Churchill, Serafi Allen) proposed adding a 12-year extension option to the MFTE program in three of six residential targeted areas, based on a 2026 analysis with the Regional Coalition for Housing. The option targets deeper affordability (50% AMI) and includes tenant relocation assistance. Council President Stewart expressed strong support, citing Redmond 2050 commitments and noted the council had received substantial public commentary and letters in recent days. Councilmember Parsi asked about fiscal implications; staff estimated the median homeowner tax shift at approximately $45. Councilmember Kritzer requested data on existing MFTE uptake and financial feasibility. Concerns about 12 vs. 20-year terms led to discussion; staff noted conflicting state interpretations of the 20-year provision. The committee did not advance to consent but will continue discussion at a scheduled July 28 study session, with council questions due by early July. - Quarterly Overtime Report: January 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026 (CM 26-4001) – Deputy Chief Varrell reported salaries at 60.8% of budget (below the 62.5% target) while overtime is at 88% of its budget, offset by vacancy savings. Overtime drivers include backfilling recruit academies, FMLA leave, and rank outages. A modest OT increase is expected with FIFA World Cup activities. Councilmember Soni asked about burnout and morale; Varrell acknowledged changing workforce values and mandatory OT concerns. Council President Stuart asked about hiring strategies; Varrell cited earlier academy starts leading to 100% graduation and ongoing conversations about overhiring. Key Outcomes - Five action items (Behavioral Health MOU, Legal Services Agreement, SS4A Grant, Overlake Bike/Ped Consultant, Fire Station 11 Feasibility) were cleared for the July 7, 2026 consent agenda by consensus. - The MFTE amendments were referred to a July 28 study session (already on the calendar); no consent date was set. Council members will submit questions by early July. A potential adoption could occur at the August 3 business meeting if staff can meet packet deadlines. - The overtime report was received as informational; no action taken.

The Redmond Planning Commission met on June 11, 2026, at 16:15 UTC, with Chair Weston presiding and Commissioners Aparna, Gagnier, and Van Nyman present; Commissioners Copley, Coleman, and Woodyer were excused. The agenda included approval of prior minutes, a public hearing on the 2026–2027 annual comprehensive plan docket, and a study session on the 2026 annual code cleanup. Note: The agenda materials provided reference a June 10, 2026 meeting with the same agenda topics; the date used here is June 11, 2026 as specified. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved by unanimous voice vote. - Meeting summary from May 27, 2026 approved by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - David Morton (Redmond 98053) gave general comments on the citywide watershed management plan (WMP). He said seven of the nine gaps between current water management programs and Redmond 2050 goals had been raised previously; he addressed Gap 8, noting the 2013 WMP is 13 years old, was prepared by Herrera Environmental Consultants for the Public Works Natural Resources Division, and predates Redmond 2050. He noted the plan called for updates every five years and annual progress reviews, but no formal update has been produced; its land use baseline extends only to 2030, and its climate data use precipitation records ending in 2008. He said Redmond needs both and referenced CR25. - Linda Seltzer, a resident of a senior apartment complex on 80th Street, expressed disappointment that the docket failed to delete Redmond 2050 language that incentivizes redevelopment in her neighborhood. She said six apartment complexes on two square blocks could be eligible for property tax exemptions and redevelopment, displacing residents. She questioned the rationale for prioritizing redevelopment over housing preservation and the referral of the issue to the Human Services Commission rather than the Planning Commission. - David Morton, speaking during the public hearing, said he reviewed all five proposed docket items and the staff memo and cumulative effects analysis. He expressed support for placing all five items on the docket. He offered conditional support for the stormwater and surface water systems plan, asking for rigorous evaluation of groundwater impacts and early community engagement before new industrial designations are finalized in Southeast Redmond, which lies within a critical aquifer recharge area. He fully supported the neighborhoods element update, but asked the commission to verify transportation master plan maps are complete before repealing the outdated neighborhood connections map. He enthusiastically supported adding the three shared-use path projects on Northeast 40th, 70th, and 72nd Streets, noting they improve safety, reduce car trips, and support a healthier environment. He submitted written comments. Discussion Items 2026–2027 Annual Comprehensive Plan Docket Public Hearing - Senior Planner Glenn Coyle presented, joined via Teams by Peter Holt (utilities), Francesca Liberty (transportation), and Lauren Alpert (industrial land study and neighborhood plans). He explained that state law allows the city to amend its comprehensive plan no more than once per year and requires concurrent review of amendments so cumulative effects can be assessed. The proposed docket contains five city-initiated amendments: (1) stormwater/surface water systems plan update, (2) updates to neighborhood plan/neighborhood element policies, (3) review and update of policies, maps, and regulations for the manufacturing, park, business park, and industry zones, (4) repeal of an outdated neighborhood connections map, and (5) an update to the transportation facilities plan to add projects. - Commissioner Aparna asked how the cumulative effects analysis would handle concurrent amendments that have trade-offs or conflict with each other. Staff responded that the analysis is more speculative at the docket stage and will be updated as specific proposals are developed; docketing is the first step. - Commissioner Gagnier asked budget-curiosity questions. Peter Holt explained that the stormwater/surface water systems plan was budgeted in previous city budgets, carried over, and the consultant contract was extended. Lauren Alpert said the neighborhood planning item has funding allocated for community engagement because it is a special project; the other items are part of the regular city work plan. - The commission agreed to advance the docket. Chair Weston noted the four-member body made a quorum, and staff will prepare a report and recommendation for a formal vote at the June 24, 2026 meeting. No vote was taken on the recommendation. 2026 Annual Code Cleanup Study Session - Senior Planner Lauren Alpert presented minor code amendments, including correcting typos, incorrect references, and incorporating administrative interpretations. Highlights included: updating the list of documents underlying the city’s exercise of CEPA authority (adding water/wastewater plans, the fire department functional plan, and the capital facilities plan); clarifying that development agreements are an exercise of police power and contract authority rather than project permits; removing certain project permit criteria to align with comprehensive plan consistency; cleaning up the land use table (removing references to boarding houses, updating old zone names, clarifying food truck hours, and restating the 20% open space requirement for residential development); revising definitions such as culvert; and making miscellaneous typo and formatting fixes. She also noted that some updates to Appendix 3 were made by the technical committee and do not require Planning Commission approval. - Commissioner Aparna asked how a development agreement can be both voluntary and an exercise of city contract authority. Jeff Churchill explained that development agreements are contracts under state law; entering into one is voluntary for both the property owner and the city, but once created the agreement is binding. He confirmed that state law requires a public hearing for development agreements. Commissioner Aparna asked for this explanation to be included in the issues matrix. - Commissioner Van Nyman asked for more clarity on the open space changes, specifically whether a treatment preventing parking is required for an area to count as open space or whether the primary use is sufficient. Another commissioner asked whether the green building and verbiage changes were only typographical or could alter meaning. Staff took notes for the issues matrix and said items could be sent to staff by the weekend. - Next steps: public hearing on June 24, 2026; a possible additional study session on July 8, 2026; and city council review later in the summer/fall. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda and the May 27, 2026 meeting summary by unanimous voice votes. - Advanced the 2026–2027 annual comprehensive plan docket recommendation; staff will prepare the formal report for vote on June 24, 2026. - Closed the verbal public hearing while keeping the written comment period open. - Directed staff to prepare an issues matrix for the annual code cleanup incorporating commissioners’ requests for clarification. - Completed planning commission youth advisor interviews; a decision is expected shortly. - Adjourned by motion.

The Redmond City Council met for a study session on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, beginning at approximately 6:00 p.m. (the agenda listed 7:00 p.m.). Mayor Birney and all council members were present. The agenda included a grant threshold proposal, a park impact fee schedule update, the public art master plan, Vision Blueprint 2050, and council talk time. No consent calendar or public comment period occurred. Grant Threshold - Deputy Director Zach Hoovner introduced grant supervisor Lauren Thompson, grant coordinator Amanda LaSalle, and capital and grant analyst Jeanette St. Paul. - Staff said the current council approval workflow has three touchpoints and takes a five- to six-week minimum. Finance estimated the council approval process costs $3,411.95, and some departments have stopped pursuing small grants because the administrative cost exceeds the award. - Staff recommended a $50,000 threshold for accepting grants, with exceptions for grants requiring unbudgeted matching funds, creating future staffing or operational commitments, or requiring council acceptance by the grantor. The threshold would align with existing $50,000 procurement authority, and grants would be reported through quarterly budget adjustments. - Staff noted that of 16 grants under $50,000 received in 2024, 2025, and 2026, only one did not meet the exception criteria. They also reported the city manages roughly 45 grants annually and receives about 18 new grants each year, with about five on average under $50,000. - Councilmembers raised concerns about approving a threshold before seeing the legislation and asked for additional exceptions, including new programs, new technology, and new policy implications. Councilmember Parsi also raised concerns about new city ownership/operating obligations, litigation, regulatory, environmental, and privacy risks. Councilmember Forsythe and others asked for a council leadership check-in on grants below the threshold. - Council gave direction to continue developing the threshold with the added exceptions and with a council leadership notification role. Staff agreed to bring draft legislation to the Parks and Environmental Sustainability Committee of the Whole on June 23 and to prepare the item for the July 7 regular business meeting. Park Impact Fee Schedule Update - Parks planning manager Lindsay Falkenberg introduced Cameron Zapata and FCS consultants John Gillarducci and Zach Hazel. Parks Director Laureen Hamilton participated remotely. - Staff explained impact fees are one-time fees paid by new development for growth-related capital projects and can only fund capital projects in an adopted plan. - The updated current approach produced fees of $3,194 per 1,000 square feet for residential development, $224 for industrial, and $1,500 for non-industrial commercial development. - A standards-based approach produced $3,783 per residential equivalent on a 20-year basis and $6,959 per residential equivalent on a six-year basis. For a single-family residence, that equals $8,290 under the 20-year approach and $15,000 under the six-year approach. Staff emphasized these are maximum legally defensible rates and the council may choose lower rates. - The Parks, Trails and Recreation Commission asked that the fee amount not negatively affect housing development, including affordable and market-rate housing. - Councilmembers asked about variability over time, the last update (2017), inflation indexing, developer credits for privately owned public spaces, and potential impacts on ADUs and home remodels. Council President Stuart expressed support for the standards-based approach, and Mayor Birney noted that six-year CIP projects sometimes roll forward, which could make the 20-year approach more practical. - Staff planned to brief interested parties, including Master Builders and OneRedmond, and will return to the council in July with engagement results and in September with an ordinance. Public Art Master Plan - Recreation business manager Brittany Pratt, cultural arts supervisor Chris Weber, MIG consultants Linda Flynn and Ann Birchold, and Finance Director Kelly Cochran presented. - The plan was launched in June 2025 and engaged more than 5,000 people through 60 touchpoints. Ninety-one percent of questionnaire respondents said public art is important to their experience of the city. The previous plan was adopted in 2017, and Redmond has grown by more than 20,000 residents since then. - The plan is organized around three framework goals: integrated citywide public art, an artist ecosystem in Redmond, and a durable foundation for the program. - Director Cochran recommended moving away from the current 1% for the arts ordinance toward embedding public art projects in the capital investment program with a minimum annual funding level. She also mentioned a $75,000 deferred maintenance catch-up this year and about $50,000 in ongoing maintenance next year. - Councilmembers asked about maintaining an ordinance-level commitment, how CIP integration would work with infrastructure projects such as bridges, and the maintenance liability for art. Councilmember Prakriya asked whether the MOC project would generate 1% funding under the existing ordinance; staff acknowledged it and other projects could, but said the new approach would provide more predictability and roughly equivalent funding over six years. Councilmember Kritzer and Councilmember Forsythe requested more detail on the math for the MOC and teen center. - Staff will incorporate council feedback into the final plan, and Director Cochran will return with an ordinance on the funding proposal. The council also asked to see the calculations for the 1% for the arts on the MOC and teen center. Vision Blueprint 2050 - Deputy Director Serafi Allen introduced senior planner Glenn Coyle; Jeff Churchill was also present. - Vision Blueprint 2050 is a capital investment strategy that connects the Redmond 2050 Comprehensive Plan to the six-year capital improvement program and two-year budget. It updates the previous Blueprint 2030 out to 2050. - Staff sought council direction to prepare a resolution for approval on the July 7 consent agenda. - Councilmembers discussed the timing of the plan, noting the city is in a budget year and other plans are still being updated. Staff said the next planned update would be in 2027. - Councilmember Kritzer noted public art was not referenced in the plan; the council agreed to add a sentence referencing the public art master plan. Councilmember Parsi asked for metrics and links to functional plans; staff explained the document is a high-level roll-up and would add references where feasible. - Staff will provide a preview of the added language before the plan is placed on the July 7 consent agenda. Council Talk Time - Council President Stuart announced the legislative coordinator position would be posted soon, an Ombud process update would come in the next few weeks, and upcoming events included a commemorative sign installation on Friday, World Cup events, and a retirement celebration for Tisa Rutherford. - Councilmembers expressed interest in sending a letter to neighboring councils about the council's recent commercial drone delivery land use decision and in developing a federal legislative agenda. Councilmember Parsi also suggested adding a section to staff memos highlighting potential concerns or tradeoffs with Redmond 2050 goals; council leadership said they would consider it. Key Outcomes - The council directed staff to proceed with a $50,000 grant threshold, including additions for new programs, new technology, and new policy implications, plus a council leadership check-in. Staff will return with legislation for the June 23 committee of the whole and the July 7 business meeting. - The council provided feedback on the park impact fee update; staff will return in July and September with engagement results and an ordinance. - The council asked for final public art plan revisions and an ordinance from the finance director, plus a calculation of 1% for the arts on the MOC and teen center. - The council agreed to add a public art reference to Vision Blueprint 2050 and place it on the July 7 consent agenda. - Council leadership will follow up on a federal legislative agenda, a letter to neighboring councils, and potential memo format improvements.

The Finance, Administration, and Communications Committee of the Whole of the Redmond City Council met on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 4:30 PM. All council members were present. The meeting covered four action items moved to consent, a budget process discussion, and an update on the Respect, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (REDI) program. Consent Calendar - Reappointments to Community Facilities District (CFD) 2016-01 Board of Supervisors: Recommended for consent on June 16th, with the addition of Jordan Rash to replace outgoing Microsoft representative Mike Ben. Council Vice President Nuevacamina praised Ben’s collaborative service. No objections raised. - Enterprise Content Management (ECM) Consulting Services: Request to approve a $64,750 fixed-fee contract with SoftResources to support an RFP for ECM software. The process is expected to take about 5.5 months, with a software decision by end of 2026 and implementation in 2027. Moved to consent. - State Lobbyist Agreement with Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Affairs: One-year contract for $79,338 for state legislative advocacy, with an option to extend. Council President Stuart noted the value and suggested a future federal legislative agenda. Moved to consent. - Redmond Historical Society Lease Agreement: Two-year lease for Adair House in Anderson Park (approximately 800 square feet) at an annual rent with a fixed 4% annual escalator plus utilities. The society must vacate its previous space by June 30, 2026, due to Lake Washington School District reclaiming the Old Redmond Schoolhouse. Councilmembers expressed support and appreciation. Moved to consent. Discussion Items - Budget Process Update: Finance Director Kelly Cochrane summarized feedback on the Long-Range Financial Strategy and Fiscal Policies. Key areas of focus include refining the community investment rate metric, developing decision-making criteria, and incorporating risk assessment. A revised draft and presentation will be provided for the July 14th FAC packet, with a study session planned for July 28th. - Budget Process Ground Rules: Committee Chair Kritzer introduced proposed ground rules for the 2027-2028 budget process, including meeting length (maximum three hours), Thursday night special meetings starting at 6:00 PM (October 22, 29, and November 5), and guidelines for council deliberation and decision-making. Council President Stuart emphasized these as team agreements. Adoption date confirmed as November 10, 2026, with a possible additional meeting on November 5th. - REDI Program Update: Zach Hoovener reported that a contingent offer for the REDI Program Administrator position had been accepted, with a tentative start date of July 1, 2026. The hiring process involved 61 applicants, 14 meeting criteria, and a community panel. Mandatory all-staff REDI training launched in May; 177 employees (25%) have signed up, with full completion by end of year. Pride events were noted, and upcoming Coffee with a Cop on June 13th was announced. Councilmembers expressed support and requested future updates tied to KPIs. Key Outcomes - All four action items (CFD appointments, ECM consulting, state lobbyist contract, historical society lease) were approved to be placed on the consent agenda for the June 16, 2026 regular council meeting, with no objections. - The budget process timeline was confirmed: revised documents due July 14th, study session July 28th, and budget adoption scheduled for November 10, 2026. - REDI program update received; future updates will include KPIs from the strategic plan.