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Happy Friday, Kent!
Just thought I'd kick things off by sharing this beautiful photo of Clark Lake! I have some exciting news about the park below.
In this week's update I've included a recap of some events from the week, tidbits from my progress report about what the city accomplished last year, some upcoming youth sports opportunities and more.
I hope you enjoy the update and have a fantastic weekend!
Dana Ralph, Kent Mayor
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Today is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, which commemorates the victims of the Holocaust.
We honor and remember the six million Jewish victims and the millions of other victims of the Nazi regime.
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In 2022, we continue to make investments in Kent’s infrastructure. Maintenance and improvements happen all year long: from road overlays, to repairs and upgrades to water and sewer systems.
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Last year, the Kent City Council passed four new city ordinances aimed at improving public safety and quality of life in the Kent community. Learn more about them here.
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In 2022, our Human Services division distributed funding to 11 new community programs, empowering non-profits to expand their service. The budget includes 48 Human Services Agency Contracts to local non-profits providing critical resources in the Kent community.
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State of the City 2023
I'd like to invite you to join me at this year's State of the City address! The event will be on Tuesday, March 14 at Kent-Meridian High School. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
We've had a great year with much to celebrate, and I'm looking forward to sharing stories of our success, what we've accomplished, and what's on the horizon.
Grant Secured for Clark Lake Park
This week I welcomed King County Executive Constantine to Clark Lake Park for a special site walk as we discussed the history and future of the park!
The City of Kent recently purchased the remaining 15.5 acres to complete the assemblage of Clark Lake Park with the help of funds that were awarded to us from the King County Conservation Futures Grant Program.
This will finally allow for us to create a loop trail around the entirety of the lake, and opens the door for us to update the park's master plan in the near future.
King County's Land Conservation Initiative is a regional collaboration between the county, cities, business people, farmers, environmental partners and others.
I am so excited for what is in store at Clark Lake Park!
Congratulating Pastor Jane
Just wanted to give a heartfelt congratulations to Pastor Jane on her retirement!
Jane has been the pastor at Kent Lutheran Church for 24 years, and while serving the congregation, she also served our community in so many ways.
Jane is a long-time board member at Kent Youth and Family Services, a leader for the Kent Ministerial group, and a member of the KPD Race and Equity advisory group.
She is the definition and best example of someone called to serve the community. Her kindness, patience and heart have positively impacted so many people here.
Thank you for serving and thank you for choosing Kent! Wishing you all the best in your new adventures.
Community Service
This week I was joined by members of the Kent stake of the LDS Church for an annual meeting to talk about opportunities for service in our community.
We talked about things like our Adopter program, where individuals or groups can Adopt-A-Spot or Adopt-A-Street to help keep Kent clean.
I'm beyond grateful for all of our faith-based organizations and their dedication to our community, and all the work they do to give back and help out. They inspire us all to be a kinder, more compassionate and service-oriented city.
#PeopleOfKent: Cynthia
The latest edition in our #PeopleOfKent social media series was posted this week!
People of Kent highlights and lifts up the voices and stories of our community members who make Kent an incredible place to live and work.
Cynthia shared her journey from being born in Amsterdam, living and teaching English in Japan, to settling in Kent, and now her work as the marketing manager for Kent Station.
You can read her story and others at KentWA.gov/PeopleOfKent.
Kent Police Meet & Greet
I had a great time at our Vino with the 5-0 event at Red's Wine Bar at Kent Station yesterday evening with Chief Padilla and Councilmembers Troutner and Fincher.
It's always enjoyable to see residents coming out to these kind of events to get to know their local law enforcement officers, have casual conversation and get their questions answered.
Kent Police officers strive to be a part of the fabric of our community, and it's so important to build those relationships and understanding between law enforcement and the community they serve.
Kent Parks Soccer
Registration is open for our Spring Co-ed Youth Soccer league, open to all kids in Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st grade in the City of Kent or Kent School District.
The deadline to register is March 7, so if your kids are interested, visit our website to learn more and sign-up!
Kent Parks T-Ball
Registration is also open for our Spring Co-ed T-Ball/Tossball league, open to all kids in Pre-K/Kindergarten and Grades 1-2.
The deadline to register is coming up closer on February 28, so if your kids are interested, be sure to visit our website to learn more and sign-up.
Parks Commission
If one of your resolutions for 2023 is to get more involved with your community, there's a great opportunity for you!
Apply to join the Kent Parks & Recreation Commission! We’re still looking to fill both Adult and Youth seats.
Commissioners meet with our team once a month and work to provide input on strategic planning efforts that influence Kent’s Parks & Recreation system.
Learn more & apply on our website.
Spotlight Series
Our Spotlight Series continues with International Guitar Night! Get tickets to enjoy Jazz, Flamenco and Classical acoustic guitar music from artists renowned around the world!
📅 Friday, February 3
🕖 7:30 p.m.
📍 KM High School
🎶 KentWA.gov/SpotlightSeries
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