 City of Kirkland’s own special projects coordinator Christian Lash tells us why the Kirkland Workshops and Pitch Competition offer a kinder, gentler shark tank and a prime opportunity for current and aspiring businesses. Plus, we draw the lucky winner of Woodinville Wine Country wine tasting passports. Check it out.
The Kirkland City Council met on January 20, 2026. Here’s a brief overview of some of the items on the Business Agenda:
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Council adopted updates to Kirkland’s design review process and design standards to meet the requirements of new state law. This follows a public hearing Council held on the topic this past November.
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Council received its annual briefing on the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging 5-year Roadmap.
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Council received an update on the 2026 State Legislative Session, the City’s legislative priorities, and the work of the Council’s Legislative Work Group.
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Council approved the Mayor’s recommendations for Councilmember assignments for regional boards and committees.
Prior to the Business Agenda, the Council held a Study Session, where they received:
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An overview of the Kirkland Community Court, which was established five years ago as a therapeutic, problem-solving court to address low-level, non-violent misdemeanor offenses through a framework centered on accountability, public safety, and long-term behavior change.
- They also got an update on the City's pilot program to provide a dedicated sexual assault legal advocate to survivors of sexual assault in Kirkland.
How to watch: Kirkland City Council meetings are streamed live and can be watched after the fact on the City's:
Meetings are also televised on Comcast Cable Channel 21 and Ziply Cable Channel 31. To watch the Council discussions on the specific agenda items outlined above, visit the City’s website. The full agenda packet with information on each item is located on the City’s website.
The next City Council meeting is on February 3, 2026.
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.
The City of Kirkland is launching a new community engagement pilot program, Conversations with Council, designed to create more informal, accessible opportunities for residents to connect directly with City Councilmembers outside of formal meetings. The Conversations with Council events will offer casual, drop-in gatherings where community members can share ideas, ask questions, and get to know their elected officials through small group or one-on-one conversations. There is no agenda, presentation, or prepared remarks—just conversation. Two to three Councilmembers will attend each session on a rotating basis.
Upcoming Q1 2026 Conversations with Council events include:
- Monday, January 26, 9 to 11 a.m. at Peter Kirk Community Center
- Saturday, February 21, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kingsgate Library
- Thursday, March 19, 4 to 6 p.m. at North Kirkland Community Center
Community members are encouraged to drop in at any time during the events. Feedback from participants will help shape and evolve the program to meet the needs of the community. For more information about the Conversations with Council program and other happenings at the City of Kirkland, visit www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/City-Council/Conversations-with-Council
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 Electric bikes, scooters, and other e-mobility devices are everywhere these days — and it can be tough to keep track of what’s legal to ride, where, and at what age.
To help riders stay safe and informed, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission launched a new E-Ride Guide that explains e-mobility laws in plain language and breaks down the differences between e-bikes, e-scooters, and electric motorcycles.
Curious how these rules apply in Kirkland? Check out our E-bikes webpage for local laws, riding tips, and resources: kirklandwa.gov/ebikes
 This February, the City will host two free CPR/AED & First Aid classes in partnership with the Medic One Foundation. Participants learn practical lifesaving skills that can be used at home, at work, or in the community. Learn more and sign up today: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/Departments/Fire-Department/Public-Education/CPR-Class
The start of the year is a great time to check, update or add items to your preparedness supplies. Taking a few simple steps to prepare now, can help you and your family minimize challenges before inclement winter weather is in the forecast.
Look Out for One Another
Cold weather can be especially dangerous for elderly neighbors and those with access and functional needs. Check in on the people who rely on you to see if they need assistance.
Personal Preparedness
Learn how to build a disaster kit, make emergency plans, and stay informed about potential hazards. https://www.kirklandwa.gov/Prepare
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 Taryn serves as the Clinical Social Work Coordinator for the Kirkland Fire Department’s Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) Program, where she meets people at some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Drawn to the City of Kirkland’s commitment to reducing barriers to care, she found a place where she can SERVE with purpose, BELONG within multidisciplinary teams, and THRIVE through meaningful community impact.
“Human suffering has no preference in social identities,” Taryn explains. “It affects people of all backgrounds, experiences, and economic standings.” Through close collaboration with first responders, mental health professionals, and community outreach partners, she helps create more connected, compassionate systems of care.
At the City of Kirkland, employees don’t just do important work – they serve their community, foster belonging, and help one another thrive. Check out our current job openings today.
 For the third year in a row, the Kirkland Workshops and Pitch Competition is now accepting applications!
Build the knowledge and confidence you need to start or grow your business. This challenge offers an ideal setting for hands-on application of practical business tools and the ability to clearly communicate the value of your product or service and the benefits your business offers.
- Basics of Business | February 10, 2026
- Lean Canvas Business Plan and Market Research | February 17, 2026
- The Business of Finances for Small Businesses | February 24, 2026
- Marketing and More | March 3, 2026
- Preparing to Pitch | March 10, 2026
- Pitch Competition | March 24, 2026 | Open to the Public
These workshops provide potential, micro, and small businesses with the groundwork needed to be successful as they launch their businesses. Each workshop will stress the need for tangible achievements and intentional networking that will build the support needed to be successful as a small business owner.
2026 Application for Business for Participation in Workshops and Pitch Competition
Learn more here.
 If you've noticed a lot of leftovers heading to disposal, consider adopting these food-saving habits this year:
1. Fridge Nights - Set aside one night each week to evaluate the leftovers in your refrigerator and get creative with your meals. Label and freeze any uneaten portions for future lunches.
2. Thoughtful Shopping - Develop a weekly meal plan by first surveying your fridge and pantry. This not only helps in minimizing waste but also saves money and time. By knowing what you already have, you can efficiently fill in the gaps with only necessary purchases.
3. Understand Food Labels - Learn the true meaning behind food labels:
- "Sell by" dates are for store staff, not consumers. Food is often good past this date.
- "Best before" or "use by" dates relate to quality, not safety. If these dates have just passed, and the food has been stored properly and passes your sensory tests, it is generally still safe to consume. These dates emphasize peak freshness rather than edibility.
Embracing these practices can help reduce food waste and make a positive impact on your budget and the environment. Let's make 2026 the year of mindful consumption and sustainable habits!
Find more information about reducing waste here.
 The pedestrian bridge connecting the parking lot and restroom to O.O. Denny Park is currently out of service due to tree damage sustained in late 2025. Staff are working on plans to replace the bridge and restore this important park connection. Because of the scope of the repair, the replacement process is expected to take some time. Visitor safety is our top priority. We appreciate the community’s patience as we work toward a long-term solution. Find more information about O.O. Denny Park here.
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Northeast 85th Street: Shared Use Pathway Northeast 85th Street continues to usher a single lane of traffic in each direction, between Interstate 405 and Sixth Street while a Kirkland contractor builds a shared-use pathway that parallel’s Northeast 85th Street. Delivery of the pedestrian bridge girders are scheduled for Tuesday, January 27. Drivers can expect increased construction vehicles and activities leading up to that delivery and thereafter. Visit https://www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/Departments/Public-Works-Department/Construction-Projects/NE-85th-Street-Shared-Use-Pathway for project updates on Thursdays.
Additional Construction Projects
Find out about additional construction projects here.
 Penny Sweet's Retirement Party
Date: Friday, January 30
Time: 4 to 5:30 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Christian Church, 701 1st St in Kirkland
You're Invited! Help celebrate Penny Sweet's 16 years of serving on the Kirkland City Council! Friday, January 30, 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Lakeside Christian Church at 701 1st St in Kirkland. Hope to see you there!
Wheels & Reels Winter Drive-In Movie Series
Date: February 7, March 7, & April 11
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Juanita Beach Park
February 7 – Twisters March 7 – Lilo and Stitch (live action) April 11 – Mufasa: The Lion King
Cozy Up for the 2026 Winter Drive-In Movie Series at Juanita Beach Park! Grab your blankets, load up the car, and enjoy a magical movie night under the winter sky! Watch family-friendly films (PG-13 and under) on our giant 17-foot LED screen. All ages are welcome, but parents are encouraged to review movie titles ahead of time for suitability.
This event happens rain or shine (no refunds), so come prepared! Cars and trucks are welcome, but please leave the limos, RVs, buses, and alcohol at home, and please no tailgating. Registration is $20 per vehicle and is required ahead of time for attendance. Please register based on your vehicle size to ensure the best viewing experience for everyone. The parking lot opens at 6 p.m., and the movie starts at 7 p.m.
Register now at www.kirklandparks.net or visit www.kirklandwa.gov/communitybuildingevents for more details.
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 Lunar New Year Celebration
Date: Saturday, February 28
Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
Location: Peter Kirk Community Center, 352 Kirkland Ave, Kirkland
Come celebrate Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse.This festive community event will feature light refreshments, hands-on arts and crafts, and a variety of cultural performances presented by the Seattle Chinese Arts Group and Mak Fai Lion Dance Association. Guests will also have the opportunity to explore an educational gallery showcasing the rich history and traditions of Lunar New Year. Whether you're familiar with the holiday or curious to learn more, this celebration offers something for everyone. The event is free and open to all, so bring your family, friends, and neighbors to enjoy an afternoon of fun, learning, and cultural connection. For more information, visit www.kirklandwa.gov/CommunityBuildingEvents or call 425-587-3300.
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Drum (and dice) roll, please! Check out this clip from today’s (Jan 22, 2026) This Week in Kirkland podcast where we roll to see who won $1,000 in Woodinville Wine Country passports. Full episode out later today, wherever you get your podcasts.
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