The Kenmore Top 4: October 21, 2022

At the October 17 meeting, Kenmore City Council discussed comprehensive plan amendments and also proposed zoning regulations to allow duplexes and triplexes throughout the R-6 single-family residential zone. The Council gave direction to bring back an ordinance to a future council meeting to approve amendments to the comprehensive plan that would allow future consideration of Medium Density housing (Missing Middle Housing) within one-quarter mile of the city’s two main transit corridors. In addition, Council direction was that the ordinance would not include any changes to zoning regulations that would allow duplexes or triplexes in the R-6 single-family zone and further discussion of Missing Middle Housing would be deferred to 2023. The Ordinance will be brought back for Council action in November.

The mid-term election is officially here and ballots were mailed out this week. Here’s what you need to know:

• Drop boxes are open now through Election Day (November 8). A list of all drop boxes (including Kenmore City Hall) can be found online and in the voters’ pamphlet.
• The Kenmore City Hall Vote Center will be open Saturday, November 5, Monday, November 7, and Tuesday, Election Day, November 8. Voters can register for the first time, update their registration, get a replacement ballot, or use an accessible voting device.

• There are a total of 90 offices and 140 candidates up for election, including Washington’s Senator, Members of Congress, State Legislators, Secretary of State, and two countywide measures.
• Voters can sign-up to receive text messages/emails about when their ballot is mailed, when it's received, or if there are any issues. This is available in five languages – Chinese, English, Korean, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Voters can sign-up here.

Next week is the Kenmore Pet Costume Contest! Get your pet dressed in their finest Halloween look and enter a photo for a chance to win a prize. Or, head down to Kenmore Camera next Saturday, October 29, between 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. for free pet photos, pet treats, and giveaways. Submit your photo to events@kenmorewa.gov between October 24 - 31, and then get your friends to vote online November 3-6. Winners will be announced Monday, November 7. Contest categories include: Best in Show, Royal, and Scary.

On October 20, City of Kenmore residents and staff joined NEMCo and millions of people around the world for The Great Shakeout earthquake drill. The drill was an important reminder that surviving and recovering from a major earthquake is not a matter of luck but a matter of being prepared and practicing how to protect yourself. Find preparedness tips and more information at ShakeOut.org. Kenmore and Lake Forest Park residents can sign up for the Alert Northshore Emergency Notification System to receive alerts via text/email during emergency situations that require immediate action. Sign up for Alert Northshore here.