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.

Just a reminder that all city offices are closed Monday in observance of President's' Day.

Thank you to Maggie's on Meeker and all of the residents that spent time with us this week at our first Coffee and Conversation of 2025.

We discussed the current legislative session, the continued negative impacts of streamlined sales tax on our economy, public safety and homeless outreach.

I am always grateful for the time I get to spend with Kent residents discussing the things that matter most to them.

The Transportation and Warehousing sector in the Kent Valley produce about $10,800,000,000 in economic output for the region each year.

Supporting Kent Valley industries drives economic success! It leads to more spending, which creates more jobs, higher wages, and adds value to the local and state economy.

To keep this success going, there needs to be enough sales tax revenue. Without it, cities have less reason to allow these businesses, which slows down economic growth for the whole region. KentValleyWA.com

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.

The Neighborhood Matching Grant Program application is 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.

Kent Valley manufacturing, warehousing, transportation and wholesaling activities drive regional economic success, and the City of Kent comprises a significant portion of this industrial center.

Failing to service cities with these activities through insufficient revenue is a disincentive for any city to zone them, and that limits the economic growth of the region. 

We need the Legislature to uplift Kent and are thankful to legislators that are working on it.

Catch the action tomorrow when the T-Birds take on the Portland Winterhawks at 6 p.m. at accesso ShoWare Center!  

The City of Kent sees over $7 billion dollars in economic output annually from Wholesale Trade, which is about 7% of the State’s total.

Despite that economic output, the City of Kent hasn't received its fair share of State sales taxes since the State law changed in 2008. KentWA.gov/SST

Bandaid solutions have let Kent fall behind, and it's long past time for a permanent solution.

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!

Construction is moving forward at Willis Street and 74th Ave S, with important traffic changes coming as early as next week.

Once the new traffic island and curbing are installed, northbound traffic on 74th Ave S will no longer be able to turn left onto Willis Street (SR 516). Instead, drivers will need to turn right and use the 4th Ave S roundabout to head west.

These improvements will help reduce congestion and improve overall traffic flow at this busy intersection while also preparing for future connections to Naden Ave S.

For more details, visit KentWA.gov/Projects and sign up for traffic alerts at drivekent.com

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!

Registration is 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!

Do you want to get more involved with our Parks department? Apply to serve on our Kent Parks & Recreation Commission! Commissioners work directly with the Kent Parks Department to provide input on strategic planning efforts that influence our parks system.

Our Bicycle Advisory Board is accepting applications for new members.

Members advise the council, mayor and staff on projects, policies and programs that affect cycling conditions in Kent!

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!