 Hear about all that's happening at City Hall for All straight from the lead event organizer, Senior Community Engagement Coordinator Daniel Lazo.
 The next meeting of the Kirkland City Council is on Tuesday, September 17, 2024. This will be a hybrid meeting, and community members are welcome to attend the meeting in person or via Zoom.
Here’s a brief overview of some of the items on the Business Agenda, which starts at 7:30 p.m.:
- Council will receive a presentation on Energy Smart Eastside
- Council will receive an informational briefing on proposed adjustments to utility rates for the next two years
- Council will consider a negotiation framework for a Seattle Kraken Iceplex and City of Kirkland Community Center
- Council will hold three public hearings on:
- Revenue sources for the 2025-2026 Budget
- The Council's consideration of opposing Initiative Measure No. 2066
- And the Council's consideration of opposing Initiative Measure No. 2117
Prior to the above business agenda, the Council will also hold a Study Session starting at 5:30 p.m., where they will discuss:
- 2025-2026 Human Services Grant Funding Recommendations
- A briefing on the options for the Houghton Village Development Plan
Meeting details: The business meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. and is preceded by a 5:30 p.m. study session. The agenda for the September 17 meeting will be available on the City website prior to the meeting on the Kirkland City Council agendas webpage. You can also receive meeting agendas in your inbox by subscribing to “City Council Agendas” on the Kirkland email lists subscription page.
How to watch: Kirkland City Council meetings are streamed live and can be watched after the fact on the City of Kirkland Facebook pageand the City YouTube channel, in addition to the livestream on the City website. Meetings are also televised on Comcast Cable Channel 21 and Ziply Cable Channel 31.
How to participate: Members of the public wishing to address the Council may do so in-person or via Zoom during the “Items from the Audience” part of the agenda. That part of the agenda occurs at the beginning of the Council’s business meeting, which starts at 7:30 p.m. Information on the comment sign up process to provide comment to the City Council, and on attending the meeting virtually, is available on the City Council webpage.
Written comments can also be submitted to CityCouncil@kirklandwa.gov. For additional questions, please call the City Clerk’s Office at (425) 587-3190.
Stay in the know: you can also get a preview of what’s coming up at Council in the coming weeks and months by checking out the City Council Agenda Calendar. Please note: this calendar is subject to frequent change and does not constitute legal notice.
Follow Along the K2044 Process
All Planning Commission (PC) meetings will be held at Kirkland City Hall (123 5th Ave) starting at 6:00 PM. Visit the Planning Commission website for more information.
Upcoming meetings and public hearings on the Kirkland Comprehensive Plan:
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September 12, 2024 (6:00 pm) - Public Hearing continued on these topics:
- Market St. Corridor Plan
- Land Use Element
The record for this hearing remains open for written comments only. The record for spoken testimony was closed at the August 22, 2024 public hearing, and no additional spoken testimony will be accepted on the September 12 hearing topics at that meeting.
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September 26, 2024 (4:00 – 5:30 pm) - Housing Element Open House
- City staff available to provide information and answer questions about the City’s draft Housing Element.
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September 26, 2024 (6:00 pm) - Public Hearing topics:
- Housing Element
- Appendix (Community Profile, Glossary, History Narrative)
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October 15, 2024: Joint City Council/Planning Commission Study Session
- Planning Commission recommendation for the complete draft 2044 Comprehensive Plan
We encourage you to stay involved in the process by attending public meetings, and learning more at the 2044 Comprehensive Plan update webpage. The webpage includes all past staff memorandums, presentations to the public, and public comments.
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How can I contact the City with questions, requests, or suggestions?
You can always contact City staff through the Our Kirkland service portal, available on the web and mobile app. Submitting your comments through Our Kirkland ensures the right staff receives the information and can follow up with you.
In alignment with Welcoming Week, the City of Kirkland is hosting its annual City Hall 4 All event at Kirkland City Hall (123 5th Ave.) to celebrate the work in communities to become welcoming places for all in Kirkland.
On Saturday, September 14 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., the event will feature:
- Interactive booths with City staff sharing program information from various Departments, including partner Community Based Organizations
- A stage area with cultural performances and local entertainment hosted by the This Week in Kirkland Podcast
- Meet and greets with City Councilmembers through a photo booth and lemonade stand
- Open City services – get a pet license, pay a utility bill, sign up for a recreation class, or schedule a passport appointment
- Eastside Made Pop-up Market featuring 30+ Kirkland and Eastside businesses
- BIG TRUCK DAY! A much-loved event featuring a variety of City trucks and vehicles
- A sustainability showcase to highlight and celebrate sustainable practices featuring EV transportation, community reuse, eco-themed games and crafts, and more
More information at www.kirklandwa.gov/CityHallforAll
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The City of Kirkland has reopened the Kirkland Teen Union Building (KTUB) as a drop-in teen center! KTUB offers free drop-in activities, programs, late-night events, and behavioral health services for middle school and high school aged teens.
Stop by after school, Monday thru Friday, at 348 Kirkland Avenue. All are welcome!
• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday drop-in hours: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Wednesday drop-in hours: 1:30 PM - 6:00 PM
• Friday drop-in hours: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM with event hours till 9:30 PM
• Open select Saturdays for events
Follow KTUB on Instagram at @kirkland.teens.ktub for the latest updates. Learn more at kirklandwa.gov/KTUB.
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World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10, and National Suicide Prevention Week is September 8 through 14, 2024. It’s a time to remember those affected by suicide, to raise awareness, and to focus efforts on directing treatment to those who need it most. According to the 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline, here are some actions that can promote healing, help, and give hope:
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Ask: Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.
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Be There: Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.
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Keep Them Safe: A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline.
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Help Them Stay Connected: Studies indicate that helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.
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Follow Up: Studies have also shown that brief, low-cost intervention and supportive, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially for individuals after they have been discharged from hospitals or care services.
If you are currently experiencing a crisis, please call the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. Dial 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for more information. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the US.
Also, the Connections Kirkland crisis response center recently opened and is available 24/7/365 to walk-ins seeking mental health urgent care: https://connectionshs.com/kirkland
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 This week, we remember those affected by the September 11, 2001 attacks - especially those who lost their lives and their families, the courageous first responders on that fateful day and in the aftermath, and the dedicated members of our armed forces who stepped up to the call of duty to protect our nation. Thank you for all you've given to our country.
Wednesday morning, Kirkland police officers, fire personnel, and City leadership commemorated this remembrance with an Honor Guard ceremony at City Hall.
 National Police Women’s Day, celebrated each year on September 12, is a day that pays tribute to the brave women in law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities. According to the Bureau of Justice Assistance, women have only represented about 12 percent of law enforcement officers in the United States, despite making up over half of the population.
Throughout history, female police officers have broken barriers, shattered stereotypes and shown unwavering dedication in their service. Their strength, courage and commitment have paved the way for future generations of female law enforcement officers.
Thank you to the women of the Kirkland Police Department - including our Chief! - for serving our community with honor, integrity, and courage.
If you or someone you know is interested in a challenging and rewarding career in law enforcement, consider joining the Kirkland Police Department: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/Departments/Police-Department/Police-Jobs
The Kirkland Salary Commission will hold a public meeting on Monday, September 23, 2024.
The meeting will begin at 5:00pm in the Kirkland Council Chamber and via Zoom.
Members of the public can also call in Toll Free at 1-888-475-4499
Meeting ID: 840 4722 1889
Link: https://kirklandwa-gov.zoom.us/j/84047221889
Any person requiring a disability accommodation should contact the City in advance at 425-587-3190.
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September is National Preparedness Month! This week, we’re focused on the items you have at home to be prepared when emergencies or disasters occur. To jump-start your kit building, check out our website and the Emergency Supply Checklist at kirklandwa.gov/BuildAKit
#NPM2024 #StartAConversation
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 If you're looking for a way to enjoy time outdoors, care for our natural environment, and/or want to meet nature-loving folks – consider joining the Green Kirkland Partnership.
Green Kirkland Partnership is hosting its annual New Steward Orientation.
Stewards lead groups of volunteers on projects throughout the year.
The orientation begins Sept 19, so get your applications in today! Visit greenkirkland.org
124th Avenue Northeast
A Kirkland contractor is planning on Sept. 23 to close 124th Avenue Northeast’s southbound lane to automotive traffic between Northeast 116th and 124th streets while its crews grind and repave the roadway.
Reed Excavating will maintain the southbound closure 24 hours a day, seven days a week until until Oct. 14.
The 124th Avenue Northeast Improvements contractor will detour southbound traffic onto Slater Avenue Northeast. Customers, however, will be able to access the Totem Square commercial area by turning south onto 124th Avenue Northeast from westbound Northeast 120th Street.
During the lane-closure, Metro King County will move a few hundred feet to the north a bus stop on Totem Lake Boulevard, which serves the 225 and 239 routes.
The detour will, for nearly two weeks, overlap with a road paving project on Slater Avenue Northeast, between Northeast 120th and 124th streets. Private developer Fairfield will work at night to repave a section of Slater Avenue Northeast. Fairfield is building The Brynn Apartments.
Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/124thavenue
Overlay to repave failing street by Evergreen Hospital
Kirkland's 2024 Overlay Contractor will grind and repave 124th Avenue Northeast from Northeast 128th Street to Northeast 130th Lane. Work will close the street section overnight, between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. Construction is expected to begin Monday, Sept. 16 and be complete by Friday.
Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/streetpreservation
Goat Hill
Goat Hill residents should expect daytime road closures this week on Northeast 116th Place.
Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/goathill
Juanita Drive
Juanita Drive will be reduced to one lane periodically this week between 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Northeast 124th Street to Northeast 128th Street with flaggers controlling the flow of traffic.
Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/juanitadrivecorridor
Additionally, a separate stormwater construction project will reduce Juanita drive to one lane at 86th Avenue Northeast. Kirkland's contractor is installing a new stormwater system at this location. Work is expected through October.
Visit https://www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/Departments/Public-Works-Department/Construction-Projects/NE-Juanita-Dr-and-86th-Ave-NE-Storm-Improvements-Project
100th Avenue Northeast
OMA Construction is alternating traffic at various locations between Northeast 137th and 145th streets. Access to/from Northeast 139th Street will be closed beginning Sept. 9 through Sept. 27 while crews work to complete new curbs, gutters, and driveway aprons along Northeast 139th Street. The legal speed limit through the construction zone is 25 miles per hour. Expect delays with increased traffic as school resumed.
Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/100thavedesign
Eighth Avenue West and Fifth Street West
Water and sewer mains are being installed along 8th Avenue West between 4th Street West and 5th Street West , then continuing along 5th Street Wet between 8th Avenue West to 10th Avenue West. Flaggers are located at the intersections to allow for emergency vehicles.
Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/eighthavenuewestupgrade
Kirkland Avenue and Lake Street
Lake Street’s intersection with Kirkland Avenue is now open, and minor impacts to traffic flow are expected for delivery of materials throughout the remainder of construction. Pedestrian access changes, so please follow the pedestrian detour routes. Businesses remain open during construction.
Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/lakestreetpedscramble
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Juanita Friday Market
Date: Fridays through September
Time: 3 - 7 p.m.
Location: Juanita Beach Park
Just a couple of weeks left of the season! Swing by Juanita Friday Market and enjoy the cusp of summer and fall offerings!
The Busy Lil Bees Kid’s Booth, sponsored by Kirkland Kids Dentistry, will offer face painting and crafts this week.
Entertainment this week will be provided by John Frost from 3 to 5 p.m. and Carolyn Cruso from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.
Learn more at kirklandwa.gov/juanitafridaymarket. See you at the market!
Juanita Neighborhood Picnic
Date: Saturday, September 21
Time: 12 - 3 p.m.
Location: Edith Moulton Park, 13634 108th Ave NE
Heads Up Juanita residents – neighborhood picnic coming up!
Enjoy free games and prizes, community and business information and resources, plus free food and entertainment.
Everyone is welcome! This event is part of Welcoming Week.
For more information, visit https://juanitaneighborhoods.weebly.com
RSVP is appreciated to JNAneighborhood@gmail.com
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Totem Lake Park Mural
Date: Saturday, September 21
Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (in 4 individual time slots)
Location: Totem Lake Park
Join us for a day of painting as we bring artwork to life that raises awareness around environmental stewardship. We will be working together to complete a piece of artwork for the Totem Lake Park’s bathroom structure.
The signup is open to helpers of all skill levels, though skilled hands are encouraged to sign up for the latter hours as we'll be doing some details. Make sure to wear clothes you don't mind getting painty, and we look forward to getting creative with you!
For more information, and to sign up, visit the event page.
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 Future Women in EMS and Fire Workshop
Date: October 19 & 20
Time: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Renton
King County Women: Come join King County EMS and host agency Renton RFA along with over 12 other King County agencies as we immerse you in a weekend of hands on Fire and EMS activities and provide you an opportunity to explore a career in the Fire or EMS service. This opportunity includes interactive activities, discussion panels, viewing live demos, and networking with EMTs, Firefighters, and Paramedics in our region. Must be 18+ to apply, King County residency preferred.
Workshop: October 19 + 20, 2024 0800-1700 both days
Host: Renton RFA
Application: https://rentonrfa.com/fwief/
*Applications due September 22, 2024*
Send questions to: futurewomenems@kingcounty.gov
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Let’s chat how you can be prepared when you aren’t near your two weeks of prepared supplies and can’t carry a larger preparedness bag with you!
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