|
The City of Kent has become the first city in Washington State to receive formal approval from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) under ESHB 2015, landmark legislation enacted in 2025 to strengthen public safety funding and accountability statewide.
With this approval, Kent can move forward with implementing the 0.1% local sales tax authorized under HB 2015, funding the City will use primarily to hire, retain, and deploy more police officers on Kent streets.
HB 2015 establishes a new local funding tool and a $100 million state Local Law Enforcement Grant Program designed to address officer shortages and rebuild police staffing levels across Washington. Kent is the first jurisdiction to meet the state’s required policy, training, and compliance standards to access both the local revenue option and state grant funding.
“This is about putting more officers on the street and improving response times,” said Mayor Dana Ralph. “Our community expects visible patrols, quick 911 response, and proactive policing. This funding allows us to strengthen our police force and deliver the level of service our residents deserve.”
To qualify for HB 2015 funding, jurisdictions must meet rigorous standards established by the CJTC, including updated use-of-force policies, training compliance, reporting requirements, and accountability benchmarks. Kent completed the detailed verification process within strict statutory timelines, becoming the first city approved under the new law.
Police Chief Rafael Padilla emphasized that the City’s focus is clear.
“Our priority is staffing,” said Police Chief Rafael Padilla. “Kent needs more officers to respond to calls for service, investigate crimes, and maintain a visible presence in our neighborhoods. HB 2015 gives us the ability to rebuild and strengthen our department in a responsible, sustainable way. I also want to recognize and thank City Attorney Tammy White, Deputy Chief Stansfield, Assistant Chief Grove, Assistant Chief Hemmen and Assistant Chief Kasner for the tremendous amount of work they put into meeting the state’s requirements. Their professionalism and dedication were instrumental in achieving this approval.”
Under HB 2015, the 0.1% sales tax revenue will be dedicated to criminal justice purposes, with Kent prioritizing:
• Hiring and retaining law enforcement officers
• Reducing 911 response times
• Strengthening patrol and investigative capacity
The state grant program may fund up to 75% of entry-level officer salaries and benefits for up to 36 months, accelerating the City’s ability to recruit and deploy new officers.
“This approval means real, tangible improvements in public safety,” Mayor Ralph added. “This is a significant step towards having more officers who not only respond when residents call 911, but who will now have more capacity to be a visible presence to help prevent crime from occurring in the first place. Kent is taking action.”
Kent will report annually on the use of HB 2015 revenues, consistent with statutory requirements and legislative oversight.
As the first city approved under the new law, Kent is leading the way in using HB 2015 to directly strengthen front-line law enforcement services.
Dana Ralph, Kent Mayor
|
|
I hope you’ll join me for this year’s State of the City address on Thursday, March 19, at our new Kent East Hill Operations Center on SE 248th Street. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program begins at 7 p.m.
This will be our first major public event in this new facility, and it’s an opportunity to see firsthand an important investment in how the city serves our community. I’ll be sharing how Kent has responded to challenges over the past year, the work underway in public safety, infrastructure, and housing, and the priorities guiding us in the year ahead.
We chose the Operations Center for this year’s address because it represents the work happening behind the scenes every day to keep our community safe and services running.
|
 |
Last week, we kicked off the spring session of Kent 101 and welcomed a new group of residents who are eager to learn more about how their local government operates. Kent 101 provides an inside look at the services, infrastructure, and people behind the day-to-day work of the city. It’s always encouraging to see residents take the time to better understand how decisions are made and how they can stay informed and involved.
|
|
Earlier this week, I joined fellow mayors and councilmembers from across King County at the Sound Cities Association Board retreat, held at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center — home of the Super Bowl Champion Seattle Seahawks!
These conversations are an opportunity to build on our partnerships, share perspectives, and ensure that priorities are represented in regional decisions.
Sound Cities Association brings together cities of all sizes to collaborate on issues like transportation, housing, public safety, and economic development, work that directly impacts our residents and businesses.
|
|
On Wednesday night, I attended Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus’ State of the City address! It was great to hear about Auburn’s accomplishments and the vision for what’s ahead.
I was happy to join King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Renton Mayor Armando Pavone, Algona Mayor Troy Linnell, and Tukwila Mayor Tom McLeod in supporting Mayor Backus and the Auburn community.
Our cities share many of the same challenges and opportunities, and working together ensures we’re building a stronger, more connected region for everyone.
|
|
This legislative session, we continue advocating for investments that support Kent’s infrastructure, sustainability, and long-term economic strength.
We are working with state leaders to restore critical funding for the S. 224th Street Corridor, a key freight and jobs route connecting Kent’s Manufacturing Industrial Center to major highways and the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma. This corridor supports more than 70,000 family-wage jobs and strengthens the movement of goods throughout our region. Restoring this funding will allow the final phase of the project to move forward without delay and help ensure that we remain a vital hub for Washington’s economy.
We are also advocating for funding to support a rooftop solar project at our new Administrative Services Building. This investment would reduce emissions, lower long-term operational costs, and support clean energy goals in a community that has historically received fewer Climate Commitment Act resources despite facing significant environmental impacts.
These investments reflect our role as both an economic engine and a diverse community that deserves equitable access to state resources.
I will continue working with our legislative partners to advance projects that support our residents, strengthen our infrastructure, and position us for the future.
|
|
|
Spotlight Series
The Spotlight Series continues tonight with the Women of Americana! Coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary, this show – A Celebration of American Music – brings together two powerhouse female artists for a spirited exploration of the American genre. It will be an amazing evening!
Next up is the final show of the 2025-2026 Spotlight Series: Yesterday and Today – The Interactive Beatles which is a must-see show! Led by brothers Billy, Matthew, and Ryan McGuigan, this interactive band lets the audience choose the setlist for the night through personal song requests, creating a unique, story-driven show every night that celebrates the incredible music made by the Beatles.
For tickets, and to view the full 2025-2026 Spotlight Series line-up, visit us online: KentWA.gov/SpotlightSeries.
Join Chief Padilla next Coffee with the Chief Wednesday, March 4 from 8-10 a.m. at Maggie's on Meeker.
Come mingle with the Chief and Kent PD staff and enjoy a cup of coffee.
|
Each year the City of Kent hosts a number of FREE recycling collection events that allow residents to dispose of recyclable items not accepted at the curb.
Instead of going to the landfill as trash, collected items will be reused or recycled!
Learn more about accepted items at KentWA.gov/Recycle
📅 Saturday, March 7
⌚ 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
📍 Hogan Park (24400 Russell Road)
|
|
The next session of FEMA Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training starts Wednesday March 18. This free eight-week program meets on Wednesdays from either 1-4:30 p.m. (Afternoon Class) or 6 pm – 9:30 pm (Evening Class) and taught by Puget Sound Fire staff.
Make sure that yourself and your family will be prepared for a major disaster and able to care for yourself, your family and your neighbors until help arrives. CERT Information
The 8-week program provides instruction on disaster preparedness, disaster first aid, triage, fire safety, search and rescue, disaster psychology and team organization and finished with a simulation exercise to practice all the skills they have learned.
|
Congratulations to our February Employee of the Month, Public Works Maintenance Worker III Carlos Munoz Sanchezllanes.
Carlos joined the City of Kent in 2019 and quickly stood out for his strong work ethic and positive attitude. Now serving as a Maintenance Worker III, he performs skilled work maintaining city streets and properties and operating essential equipment.
Carlos was nominated for his dedication, reliability, and willingness to go above and beyond. He leads by example, takes pride in his work, and is known for supporting his teammates and creating a positive work environment.
We are grateful for Carlos’ commitment to serving Kent and proud to recognize him as our February Employee of the Month. Congratulations, Carlos!
|
The Kent Police Department is now accepting applications for the 2026 Spring ADVANCED Community Police Academy. Classes will be on Tuesday evenings, for 8 weeks, starting April 7th and will end on May 26th. The sessions are from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and held in person at the Kent Police/Fire Training Center located at 24523 116th Ave. SE.
The Advanced Community Police Academy takes the basic Community Academy one step further, expanding on topics and subjects such as use of force, forensics investigations, case prosecution, report writing, case studies, hostage negotiation, driving including high risk stops, an EVOC course and more. All sessions include straightforward, candid information regarding daily and specialized operations of the police department, while defining the agency’s role in the community. Sessions are presented by department and city subject matter experts.
There is no cost for participating in the Advanced Community Police Academy. It is open to any adult 18 years or older that lives, works, or has an interest in the City of Kent and its police department and who has attended the basic community academy. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. We expect seats to fill up fast.
Applications are available online at Community Police Academy Application. For security reasons all applicants must pass a background check.
For additional information or general questions, please email, shallstead@KentWA.gov
|
 |
Hired by Kent Police in 1988 as a lateral Police Officer, Retired Officer Laine Farr leaves a lasting legacy and a department stronger than when he first arrived.
Over his distinguished career, Laine served as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Traffic Investigator, Motorcycle Officer, Defensive Tactics Instructor, and SWAT Officer. Each role reflected his professionalism, calm demeanor, and commitment to serving others. As a Patrol Officer, he balanced firmness with compassion. As a Field Training Officer, he mentored new officers with clear expectations while allowing them the space to grow. As a Traffic Investigator, he handled thousands of collisions with patience and care, often supporting people on some of their most difficult days.
Generations of Kent officers benefited from his leadership as a Defensive Tactics Instructor, where he emphasized not only skill, but safety and responsibility. Those he mentored learned the importance of respect, integrity, and doing the job the right way.
After retiring from police work in 2017, Laine continued serving the Kent community through Parking Enforcement and Code Enforcement, bringing decades of experience and dedication to those roles.
For 38 years, Laine has been a steady, humble, and trusted presence within the department. His impact will be felt for years to come.
Congratulations, Laine, and thank you for your extraordinary service to Kent.
|
In order to provide resources to communities who continue to recover from the impacts of the December flooding events, King County Solid Waste has extended free weekend disposal of storm debris through March 22 at three station locations.
There will be no charge for flood debris brought to the following stations on Saturdays or Sundays through 3/22:
 Bow Lake Recycling and Transfer Station
18800 Orillia Rd. S, Tukwila
8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station
2300 N 165th St., Shoreline
8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Factoria Recycling and Transfer Station
13800 SE 32nd St, Bellevue
8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Free disposal is only for self-haul customers. Third-party haulers are excluded from the free disposal policy and must pay standard fees. For a full list of accepted items at transfer stations, view the guide: https://cdn.kingcounty.gov/.../kc-transfer-station...
If you have questions about where to dispose of flood-related debris, contact Solid Waste Division Customer Service at solidwaste@kingcounty.gov or 206-477-4466
|
|
Organizations interested in applying for regional human services funding are encouraged to visit the Share1App online portal, which coordinates funding opportunities across multiple King County cities, including Kent. This collaborative effort helps support programs and services that benefit communities throughout the region.
The application period is opening soon, and workshops are available to provide an overview of the process. For general information about Kent’s Human Services funding visit
|
Kick off your Spring with Soccer fun! Open to all kids in Pre-K to Grade 8, the Kent Parks Youth Soccer program is a great way for your child to learn the game of soccer, develop as a player and teammate, have fun, and make new friends!
Registration deadline for the Girls and Boys leagues (Grades 2-8) is March 2. Deadline to register for the Co-ed league (Pre-K to Grade 1) is March 9. Learn more and register today at MyKentParks.com/Register!
|
Our Parks crew is servin' up another great season of volleyball!
Spring Youth Volleyball is open to all kids in Grades 3 to 12. This program is a great way to introduce your child to the game and develop their skills in a fun, supportive, and inclusive environment – sign your child up today!
Deadline to register is March 3. Register online at MyKentParks.com/Register today!
|
With the weather lately, opportunities for kids to get outside and exercise become less and less. The LÜ fitness for kids' program is a great option!
LÜ’s Interactive playground gets kids up and exercising while also building their mind power. The program gives them an opportunity to combine two things they love: video games and active play! Participants will work together as teams, as well as competing in individual challenges - we have 30+ games to choose from!
Learn more about the LÜ on our website, then sign your child up today!
|
|
The countdown is ON to the 38th annual Kent Kids' Art Day!
The 38th annual Kent Kids' Arts Day will take place on Saturday, March 7 at the Kent Commons Community Center!
This beloved event encourages young artists from Pre-K to Grade 4 to join the Kent Parks crew for a full day of arts & crafts fun with professional, local artists.
Plus, attendees will also enjoy live entertainment and can purchase food from onsite food trucks! Event runs from 10am to 3pm. Cost is $10 per child. Adults and children 2 and under are FREE! See more details online at KentArts.com
|
|
We need YOU! Our Parks team is looking for your feedback on the design for the future of Eastridge Park.
This redevelopment project aims to replace old, outdated playground equipment and improve the site’s amenities. Survey closes on Friday, March 20! Take the survey online today.
We also want to hear your ideas for the reimagining of Town Square Plaza as we look forward to the park’s future. Take the Town Square Plaza survey today to provide your feedback to our Park Planning & Development crew. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to help shape the future of this downtown spot. Questions? Connect with our team online at EngageKentParks,com!
|
Our Parks team is looking for trained, certificated lifeguards for the 2026 Summer season! Apply today and help make beach season at Lake Meridian Park safe & fun for everyone!
Interested applicants must be 16+ and have the required certifications. For more information, or to apply click here!
|
|
|
 Indoor Park is held Tuesday-Thursday mornings at the Kent Commons Community Center from 9:30-11am.
No registration required! Just stop by and pay the drop-in fee ($2 for the first child and $1 for each additional child). Come play! For questions or more information, call the Kent Commons Community Center at 253-856-5100.
|
Registration is open for all Spring sports! Sign your child up for a season of learning, development, new friends, and fun.
Registration can be completed online, in person at the Kent Commons Community Center, or via phone by calling 253-856-5100.
Register now at: MyKentParks.com/Register
|
|
 |
|
Have you ever been curious about what’s being built in your neighborhood or around the city? Check out BuildKentWA.com!
It's a great way for you to find information about new projects that are under construction and coming soon.
|
Join the Kent Downtown Partnership at downtown’s newest restaurant Masthi Bar & Grill to belt out a few tunes.
Masti (which means fun) has a full bar, delicious food and plenty of vibe!
|
We all know how quickly pets can escape through an open door or gate no matter how hard we try to keep them safe.
A RASKC pet license helps by providing identification protecting pets 24/7 should they get lost. It also helps fund our pet adoption center and field services in your community.
|
|
|
We’re working to cut food waste in half by 2030.
Ever wondered how much your food waste is costing you? Brace yourself: the average family loses $3,000 each year to food waste. Discover ways to save money and stretch your grocery budget further @usefoodwell.org.
Learn more about what you can do to reduce food waste and save money this holiday season. Visit the Use Food Well website at www.usefoodwell.org.
|
|
|
 Applications are now being accepted for the city's Bicycle Advisory Board!
Kent's Bicycle Advisory Board promotes biking as viable urban transportation, promotes safety to reduce crashes & theft, and advises the council on projects, policies and programs.
This is a great way to get involved in the community. Board members help advise city leaders on projects and policies that affect bicycling conditions in Kent.
|
|
 Join Tracy, Kevin, Mark and Kyle as they update you on the important, fun, and interesting things happening in the City of Kent.
New episodes every 2 weeks!
Listen now on:
🔊 Apple Podcasts apple.co/3J2UMkd
🔊 Spotify spoti.fi/3GNCeli
🔊 Amazon Music amzn.to/3jjaOvU
|
 The KentWorks app lets you access information and improve your neighborhood and community by reporting non-emergency issues.
You can request a service, report a problem and find information about the City of Kent all from your mobile device in just a few taps!
|
|
|
|
|
