I hope to see you at the city's annual State of the City address on Thursday, March 20 at Kent-Meridian High School. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program begins at 7 p.m.

We have so much to celebrate, and I'm looking forward to sharing stories of our success, what we've accomplished, and what's on the horizon.

Kent has been a strong supporter of Ukraine, with one of the largest Ukrainian communities in Washington. 

Earlier this week, Councilmember Troutner and I were able to confirm, in person, our commitment to building a sister city relationship with Lutsk, Ukraine.

Meeting Mayor Ihor Polishchuk, at the Ukrainian Embassy was a wonderful celebration of the partnership our cities wish to build.

On Monday, I had the opportunity to spend the day in Olympia meeting with legislators to advocate for Kent’s top priorities this session. I had great conversations with Representative Chris Stearns, Senator Tina Orwall, Senator Claudia Kauffman, Senator Bob Hasegawa, and Representative Edwin Obras, all of whom are working hard for our communities.

Pictured: Representative Chris Stearns

One of the key issues we discussed was correcting the issues caused by streamlined sales tax (SST). This policy has had a significant negative impact on Kent by redirecting sales tax revenue from our industrial valley—home to major warehouses and distribution centers—to the cities where the goods are delivered.

Pictured: Senator Tina Orwall

This loss of funding has made it harder for Kent to invest in the infrastructure and services that support our businesses and residents.

Pictured: Senator Claudia Kauffman

I appreciate the legislators who are standing with us in our efforts to correct this issue and ensure Kent receives its fair share of tax revenue. Our city plays a critical role in Washington’s economy, and we will continue pushing for policies that reflect that.

Pictured: Senator Bob Hasegawa

Despite the City of Kent working for years to change our tax structure in response to changes in State sales tax sourcing laws, the Kent community continues to fall further behind while wealthier cities benefit.

Watch the video to learn about the City of Kent's unique situation and how our community got the short end of the stick when it comes to State sales tax sourcing laws.

We are now booking Spring and Summer dates for Drinks in the Driveway!

Our program brings city leaders to neighborhood councils/associations to discuss resident issues. If you want to get on the list, sign up at bit.ly/3VLfKsh.

Did you know that an incredible 1105 volunteers pitched in to pick up litter around our beautiful city last year?

At Tuesday night's Kent City Council meeting, Conservation Coordinator Tony Donati recognized the dedicated volunteers who helped clean up 320 miles of streets and sidewalks. Join an event by signing up here!

During Tuesday’s Kent City Council meeting, I proclaimed February as Black History Month—a time to honor the achievements, contributions, and culture of Black Americans.

Special thanks to Councilmembers Boyce, Boyd, and Fincher for accepting the proclamation!

The Neighborhood Matching Grant Program application is now open!

This offers matching funds on a competitive basis to recognized neighborhood councils to develop and implement projects which will enhance the livability of their communities.

Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day, or anytime throughout the year with an unforgettable evening at Kent Station.

All packages include gift cards to participating vendors, so you can enjoy date night anytime throughout the year if Valentine's Day doesn't work for you!

For more information and to get your tickets, click here!

The Cider and Ale Trail is back with some of the best cideries, breweries and distilleries for a fantastic night of tasting, live music, dining and shopping in historic downtown Kent.

📅 Friday, March 7
⌚ 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
📍   Historic Downtown Kent 

Get your tickets now!

IMPLAN modeling estimates that Grocery Wholesalers in the City of Kent facilitate $1.07 billion in economic output for the region each year!

The model approximates the cumulative effects of economic change, and we've leveraged it to better understand where we're at.

Investments in Kent's industry leads to more spending: which adds jobs, increases wages and adds value to the state and local economy.

Catch the action tonight when the T-Birds take on the Spokane Chiefs at 7 p.m. at accesso ShoWare Center!  

Registration is now open for the 2025 Spring Community Police Academy! The Community
Police Academy will be held on Tuesday nights beginning April 1 and will run through June 3.

The 10-week course offers a look into policing topics that include investigations, patrol, use of force, K9, SWAT, traffic, forensics, and many other informative sessions to help you understand why we do what we do! Attendance at all but two of the sessions is required to qualify for a four-hour police ride-along. Space is limited and registration is first come, first served. A background check is required. Click here to sign up!

The city's Independent Salary Commission is now accepting applications!

The commission reviews and establishes salaries for the mayor and members of the city council. The salary authority includes all compensation that may be paid to or received by council members and the mayor, whether or not it is identified as salary.

Members must be a registered voter and resident of the City of Kent. Apply through TONIGHT.

Applications are now being accepted for the city's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Board!

The goal of the board is to increase engagement, integration, and access to city services for all cultural communities in Kent.

You can learn about the city's work in these areas and the Equity Strategic Plan at KentWA.gov/Race-Equity and apply to be on the board here!

We’re thrilled to launch Sidewalk Sessions—a brand-new way for our Public Works team and me to connect with you directly in your neighborhood!

Public Works is the backbone of our community. From smooth roads and safe sidewalks to reliable utilities, their work keeps Kent running strong. We’ll visit neighborhoods across the city to share updates, answer questions, and hear what’s important to you.

This is your chance to learn more about the incredible work happening behind the scenes to maintain and improve Kent’s infrastructure—and how it all impacts your daily life.
Sign up to bring Sidewalk Sessions to your neighborhood!