I want to begin with a heavy heart as we mourn the tragic loss of two Spokane County Sheriff's Deputies in the line of duty this week. Our thoughts are with their families during this incredibly difficult time.
The deputies were responding to a dangerous situation, putting their own lives at risk to protect people who needed their help. It's a heartbreaking reminder of the sacrifices our law enforcement officers and their families make in service to our communities.
On behalf of the City of Kent, I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of these brave deputies, and to the entire Spokane County Sheriff's Office.
Please join me in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers. We are grateful for their courage, their service and their sacrifice.
Dana Ralph, Kent Mayor
 Last week, Kent’s accesso ShoWare Center was buzzing with energy as nearly 800 high school students and teachers from across South King County, and as far away as Kingston, Poulsbo, and Woodinville—filled the arena for the first-ever Future in Flight: Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing Expo.
It was an incredible sight: students exploring real aerospace components, testing hands-on demos, and talking directly with 25 employers and 15 education and training organizations. Companies like Amazon’s Project Kuiper, Boeing, Blue Origin, SEKISUI Aerospace, OMAX/Hypertherm, and Orion Industries showed students that cutting-edge innovation isn’t just happening somewhere else, it’s happening right here in the Kent Valley.
This event was created in response to what aerospace employers themselves asked for: more ways to connect with the next generation of workers and spark interest in the high-demand careers shaping our regional economy. The Kent Valley is home to over one-third of Washington’s aerospace jobs and more than half of its space-sector employment, making it the true backbone of aerospace and advanced manufacturing in our state.
What made this day so powerful was seeing students’ excitement as they realized that these are technology-driven, future-focused careers—often accessible right out of high school through apprenticeships, certificates, or community college pathways. These are not “last resort” jobs—they’re well-paying, innovative careers that build our region’s future.
I’m deeply grateful to our presenting sponsors, Amazon and Boeing, along with supporting partners like SEKISUI Aerospace, Three Sigma Manufacturing, OMAX/Hypertherm, and our regional colleges, for helping bring this vision to life. And to our incredible educators, counselors, and volunteers—thank you for inspiring our students and helping them take their first steps toward tomorrow’s opportunities.
The future of flight is being shaped right here in Kent Valley, and last week, we got to see who’s ready to take it to the next level.
Join us for the next Green Kent restoration event on tomorrow, November 7, as our Natural Resource Team partners with Kent Public Works to plant native trees and shrubs at the new Little Property restoration site near Kent Memorial Park!
Mill Creek has recently been restored to a more natural, winding waterway to create a healthier habitat for salmon and other wildlife.
Come learn about salmon recovery and help make a lasting impact on our local environment!
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As we head into the weekend and look toward Veterans Day on Wednesday, I want to take a moment to thank all the people in our community, friends, family, neighbors, and loved ones who have served our country.
I also want to recognize Councilmembers Michaud, Boyce, and Boyd for their service in our military and their continued service on the Kent City Council.
Thank you for your bravery, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation and our shared values.
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The Haunted Boo-Levard at Kent Station last week was a spooktacular success! Tons of amazing costumes! Thousands of residents came through with friends and family to trick-or-treat and celebrate Halloween.
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Find something special for everyone on your holiday shopping list at the Holiday Craft Market!
Shop unique, handcrafted gifts from local artists and craftspeople, soak up the holiday spirit with festive music, and enjoy lunch from the Figgy Pudding menu.
It’s a great way to support local makers while getting a head start on holiday shopping. Admission and parking are free!
Join us tomorrow, November 7, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kent Senior Activity Center.
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Want to help shape Kent’s future?
The City of Kent is recruiting for the Land Use and Planning Board.
Board members help review long-range planning issues, including City Code updates, development regulations, comprehensive plan updates and other land use matters. Members also take part in workshops and public hearings and make recommendations to the Kent City Council.
If you’re interested in how Kent grows, develops and plans for the future, this is a great way to get involved and serve your community.
Apply today!
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Here's the recap on what the Kent City Council has been working on!
 You can also see the full meeting agendas, minutes and livestream recordings on our website..
 I am so excited to celebrate the upcoming holiday season, and here in Kent, we have a month of holiday happenings planned throughout the city for you to enjoy.
From our annual tree lighting festival and the Christmas Rush 5k/10k run, to Santa photos and holiday shows, there is something for everyone in the family.
The Winterfest Tree Lighting & Parade will be held Saturday, December 5. Join us at Town Square Plaza for music, Santa, holiday vendors and local food trucks, community booths, and our annual tree lighting! Stay up-to-date on all of the details right here!
Thanks to the Kent Lions Club and the Kent Downtown Partnership.
Storm drains help prevent flooding and keep our streets safe, but they need a little TLC. You can make a difference by adopting a drain in your neighborhood! It’s easy, family-friendly, and a great way to help our community.
Sign up today at wa.adopt-a-drain.org
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King County Wants Your Input on Where Our Garbage Goes Next
King County’s only landfill is nearing capacity and will eventually need to close. That means the County must decide where our garbage will go next.
As part of an update to its long-term solid waste plan, King County is considering three options:
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Send garbage by train to landfills in southern Washington or northern Oregon.
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Build a waste-to-energy facility in King County and send the remaining ash by train to other landfills.
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Use a combination of both, sending some garbage to a local waste-to-energy facility and the rest by train.
From now through November 20, the County is asking for public feedback on the draft environmental review of these options.
You can learn more and submit comments at kingcounty.gov/solid-waste-comp-plan.
Catch the Seattle Thunderbirds tomorrow, November 7 for a home game at accesso ShoWare Center when they play the Medicine Hat Tigers.
Game starts at 6:05 p.m. Learn more and get tickets online.
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