The Boring PartsFederalLocal · USLocal · Canada
Kirkland, IL

Kirkland public meetings in 2024

24 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.

Tue Dec 10, 2024

City Council Special Meeting

Council to act on 2044 Comprehensive Plan amendments

The Kirkland City Council is holding a special meeting to consider Ordinance O-4896, which would adopt the 2044 Comprehensive Plan amendments, replacing existing plan chapters with new ones to comply with the Growth Management Act. Final action on the plan is scheduled for the regular business meeting later that evening at 7:30 p.m.

comprehensive-planland-usezoninggrowth-managementordinance
✓ Decided: Council advances 2044 Comprehensive Plan with amendments

The Kirkland City Council held a special meeting to review and amend the draft 2044 Comprehensive Plan. The council approved multiple amendments to the plan, including removing Figure LU-3, retaining highlighted text in Policy H-1.6, and adopting a new glossary definition for 'Livable Community.' A motion to expand Housing Incentive Area #4 failed, but a motion requiring a subarea plan before any expansion passed. The council postponed adoption of Ordinance O-4896 until the regular meeting later that day.

Tue Dec 10, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to adopt 2025-2026 budget, property tax levy, and 2044 Comprehensive Plan

The Kirkland City Council will hold its regular meeting on December 10, 2024, with the main business being adoption of the 2025-2026 biennial budget, the 2025 property tax levy, and the 2044 Comprehensive Plan. The council will also consider year-end budget adjustments for 2023-2024, the 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program, and several resolutions and ordinances on the consent calendar, including school impact fees, a multifamily housing tax exemption, and an interlocal agreement for a human services pooled fund. The meeting includes commendations, service awards, and an executive session on litigation.

budgetproperty-taxcomprehensive-planhousingzoningpublic-safetyinterlocal-agreement
✓ Decided: Kirkland adopts 2025-2026 budget and 2044 Comprehensive Plan

The City Council unanimously approved the 2025-2026 biennial budget, the 2025 property tax levy, and the 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program. It also adopted the 2044 Comprehensive Plan with amendments, including a new policy to optimize middle housing, after a 5-2 vote. Several other resolutions and ordinances were approved via the consent calendar.

Tue Nov 19, 2024

City Council Meeting

Kirkland Council to adopt 2025-2026 budget and property tax levy

The Kirkland City Council will hold a public hearing and consider adopting the preliminary 2025-2026 operating budget and the 2025 property tax levy. They will also discuss the 2044 Comprehensive Plan, adopt the Transportation Strategic Plan, and set the 2025 state legislative agenda. Several proclamations and routine consent items are also on the agenda.

budgetproperty-taxtransportationcomprehensive-planlegislative-agendaproclamationspublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Kirkland Council adopts 2025 property tax levy and transportation plan

The Kirkland City Council approved the 2025 preliminary property tax levy (Ordinance O-4890) and adopted the Transportation Strategic Plan (Resolution R-5660), both by 7-0 votes. The council also approved the consent calendar, which included a $861,835.66 watermain contract and several resolutions, and held a public hearing on the 2025-2026 budget. No substantive decisions were made on the 2044 Comprehensive Plan, which was only discussed.

Wed Nov 6, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to adopt 2025-2026 budget, capital plan, and property tax levy

The Kirkland City Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting the 2025-2026 budget, the 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program, the 2025-2030 Transportation Improvement Program, and the 2025 property tax levy (Ordinance O-4890). The council will also discuss the Draft Transportation Strategic Plan, additional Winterfest funding, and a potential public/private partnership to convert Areté Apartments to affordable housing.

budgetproperty-taxcapital-improvementtransportationhousingordinancepublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Council approves $40K Winterfest funding and $500K affordable housing study

The Kirkland City Council approved a one-time $40,000 allocation for Winterfest lighting and directed staff to prepare a resolution for a $500,000 contribution to a public/private partnership to convert Areté Apartments to affordable housing. The consent calendar was approved 7-0, including ordinances on business licensing and telecommunications, and several resolutions for regional agency budgets. No action was taken on the draft Transportation Strategic Plan or the property tax levy ordinance.

Mon Oct 28, 2024

City Council Special Meeting

Council studies 2025-2026 preliminary budget and proclamation calendar

The Kirkland City Council is holding a special meeting for a budget study session focused on the 2025-2026 preliminary budget, including revenue and expenditure trends, service packages, and major discussion topics. The council will also have an initial review of the Council Proclamation Calendar and may enter executive session to discuss potential litigation.

budgetcity-councilproclamation-calendarlitigationstudy-session
✓ Decided: Council reviews 2025-2026 preliminary budget, no final decisions

The City Council held a study session to review the 2025-2026 preliminary budget, including revenue and expenditure trends, service packages, and major discussion topics such as human services funding and health benefits. No formal budget decisions were made; the council only received presentations and provided feedback. The next steps include a study session and public hearing on November 6 and November 19, with proposed adoption on December 10, 2024.

Tue Oct 15, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to set 2025-26 utility rates and adopt 2025 legislative agenda

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session with the Planning Commission, then a regular meeting to consider several ordinances setting 2025-2026 rates for solid waste, water, sewer, and surface water utilities. They will also review the draft 2025 state legislative agenda and proposed updates to council policies. The agenda includes public hearings, proclamations, and a closed session on collective bargaining.

utility-rateslegislative-agendaplanningpetitionspublic-hearingsproclamationscollective-bargaining
✓ Decided: Council approves 2025/26 utility rate hikes for solid waste, water, sewer, surface water

The Kirkland City Council approved four ordinances setting 2025/2026 rates for solid waste, water, sewer, and surface water utilities, all in a 7-0 vote. The council also accepted two petitions, awarded two construction contracts, and authorized a real estate purchase to expand Juanita Heights Park.

Tue Oct 1, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to review transportation plan, fire/parks fees, Kroger merger

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session on a joint meeting with the Senior Council and a preliminary fire and parks impact fee review. At the regular meeting, they will consider a draft Transportation Strategic Plan, an update on 100th Ave NE roadway improvements, a resolution opposing the Kroger-Albertsons merger, and code amendments for business licenses and public records. Several proclamations and routine consent items are also on the agenda.

transportationbusiness-licensespublic-recordsmergerimpact-feesproclamations
✓ Decided: Council opposes Kroger-Albertsons merger, funds amicus brief

The Kirkland City Council approved Resolution R-5649 opposing the Kroger-Albertsons merger and authorized up to $5,000 from the Council Contingency Fund for outside counsel to prepare an amicus brief. The council also adopted Ordinance O-4887 and Resolution R-5648 amending public records access rules and the finance department code. The consent calendar was approved 7-0, including minutes, payroll and bills totaling over $15 million, and several proclamations. No action was taken on the proposed business license code amendments (Ordinance O-4888), which were only discussed.

Tue Sep 17, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to hear 2025-26 budget, utility rates, Kraken Iceplex framework

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session on 2025-2026 Human Services Grant funding and the Houghton Village development plan, then a regular meeting with public hearings on resolutions opposing state initiatives 2117 and 2066, and on 2025-2026 budget revenue sources. The council will also receive briefings on utility rates and the Kraken Iceplex, and consider consent items including resolutions on homelessness planning, CDBG funds, and a hazardous materials interlocal agreement.

budgetutilitieshousingzoningclimateenergypolicecommunity-development
✓ Decided: Council approves Kraken Iceplex negotiation framework at former Houghton Park & Ride

The City Council approved a substitute resolution establishing a guiding framework for negotiations with the Seattle Kraken for a Kraken Iceplex and community center at the former Houghton Park and Ride site, with two amendments. The council also unanimously approved resolutions opposing state initiatives 2117 and 2066, and approved the consent calendar, which included deferring the homelessness action plan and allocating CDBG funds.

Tue Sep 3, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to review 2025-2030 capital plan, zoning code amendments, and Juanita development petition

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session on the preliminary 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program and the 2044 Comprehensive Plan housing element, followed by a regular meeting. The regular agenda includes a public petition against a proposed development at the Michael's craft store site in Juanita, public hearings, and several consent calendar items. Key business items include zoning code amendments (Ordinances O-4881 and O-4882), a transportation concurrency overview, and a discussion on council policies and procedures.

zoningcapital-improvementcomprehensive-planhousingtransportationpetitionpublic-works
✓ Decided: Council approves zoning code and map amendments, plus $1.6M in contracts

The Kirkland City Council approved two zoning ordinances (O-4881 and O-4882) that amend the zoning code and map, and awarded construction contracts for pedestrian improvements and infrastructure replacement. The council also accepted a petition against a proposed development in Juanita and directed staff to prepare a resolution on ballot initiatives 2117 and 2066 for a public hearing.

Wed Aug 7, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to weigh automated school-zone speed cameras, utility rates, and fire training pact

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session on the Kraken Iceplex proposal and preliminary 2025-2026 utility rates, then a regular meeting with public hearings and business items. Key decisions include an ordinance on automated safety cameras in combined school zones, an interlocal agreement with the South King County Fire Training Consortium, and a funding transfer for Marina Park dock and shoreline renovations. The agenda also includes consent items such as bid awards for pedestrian and bicycle improvements near Lake Washington High School and termination of the June 2024 emergency proclamation.

public-safetytransportationutilitiesfireparksbudgetzoning
✓ Decided: Council approves automated school speed camera ordinance and fire training pact

The Kirkland City Council approved several items, including an ordinance updating automated traffic safety camera enforcement in combined school zones, a resolution joining a regional fire training consortium, and funding for road and marina projects. All votes were 7-0. The council also authorized a $15,000 mural project and acknowledged consent calendar items like a $859,915 construction contract.

Tue Jul 16, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to consider Goat Hill zoning code amendments and city flag creation

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session on the Transportation Strategic Plan and Houghton Village development, then a regular meeting with public hearings and business items. Key actions include a proposed ordinance amending zoning code for the Goat Hill overlay zone and a resolution to create an official city flag. The agenda also includes routine consent items like minutes, claims, and agreements.

zoningtransportationflagdevelopmentpublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Council approves Goat Hill overlay zone, flag process, consent items

The Kirkland City Council approved Ordinance O-4879, adding a Goat Hill Overlay Zone to the zoning code, and Resolution R-5636 to create an official city flag. The consent calendar, including minutes, payroll, bills, claims, and several resolutions, was approved 7-0. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included study sessions and reports.

Mon Jul 8, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to discuss Juanita pathway feasibility, city flag, community survey

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session on the Juanita Public Pathway feasibility study and a draft resolution for a city flag process, followed by a regular meeting. The regular agenda includes a proclamation for Disability Pride Month, a presentation of the biennial community survey, and a consent calendar with routine items such as minutes, claims, and a street overlay project bid. The council will also continue its discussion on council operations and receive a report on the Neighborhood Safety Program evaluation.

pathwayscity-flagcommunity-surveystreet-overlayemergency-proclamationsales-taxcouncil-operations
✓ Decided: Council approves $2.23M street overlay contract and new safety program

The Kirkland City Council approved the consent calendar, awarding a $2,226,937.50 construction contract for the 2024 Street Overlay Project to Lakeside Industries, Inc., and approving a resolution ratifying an emergency related to a technology disruption. Council also approved creating a new rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFB-only) program within the Neighborhood Safety Program, increasing its budget and expanding DEIB implementation. The Juanita Public Pathway Feasibility Study was found to be low feasibility and high cost, and was placed on the unfunded list.

Tue Jun 18, 2024

City Council Meeting

Kirkland Council votes on 2024 mid-year budget adjustments and CIP project closures.

The Kirkland City Council meets to approve the 2024 mid-year budget adjustment via Ordinance O-4878 and close Capital Improvement Plan projects. The agenda includes a study session on Marina Park Dock and Shoreline Renovations design updates and a legislative request regarding automated safety cameras and school zone signing. Routine items include the consent calendar, public reports on police and animal services, and a Juneteenth proclamation.

budgetzoningpublic-workspolicetourism
✓ Decided: Council approves 2023-2024 mid-year budget amendments

The Kirkland City Council approved Ordinance O-4878, amending the biennial budget for 2023-2024, with a 7-0 vote. The consent calendar was also approved, including the audit of accounts, claims, and various reports and proclamations. No public hearings were held, and the meeting included a study session on Marina Park renovations and an executive session on potential litigation.

Tue Jun 4, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to vote on homelessness action plan and 20 mph greenway speed limit

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session on the Public Works Maintenance Center facility plan, then vote on resolutions addressing homelessness and reducing speed limits on the Stores to Shores Greenway. They will also hear a healthcare update from EvergreenHealth's CEO and consider consent items including a slurry seal project and several proclamations.

homelessnessspeed-limitstreetsproclamationspublic-workshealthcarecouncil-procedures
✓ Decided: Council adopts homelessness action plan resolution and $75K engagement funding

The Kirkland City Council unanimously approved Resolution R-5631, declaring the city's commitment to addressing homelessness through a person-centered approach and authorizing the City Manager to develop a Homelessness Continuum of Care Action Plan. The council also approved a $75,000 fiscal note from the Police Proposition 1 fund balance to implement the community engagement plan. Additionally, the council approved a speed limit reduction resolution for the Stores to Shores Greenway, and awarded a $419,000 slurry seal contract.

Tue May 21, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council discusses homelessness framework, speed cameras, and water supply negotiations

The Kirkland City Council will hold a regular meeting to discuss several key policy items, including a person-centered approach to homelessness and the establishment of automated safety cameras in school zones. The agenda also includes guidance on water supply negotiations with the Cascade Water Alliance and a briefing on the purchase of the Kenmore Ranch parcel from King County. Additionally, the council will review the Kraken Iceplex proposal and the 2024 Neighborhood Safety Program projects.

homelessnesstraffic-safetywater-supplyland-acquisitionzoningbudget
✓ Decided: Council approves $247,500 for Kraken Iceplex exploratory work

The Kirkland City Council approved the consent calendar, including a fiscal note authorizing $247,500 from the General Fund for exploratory work on the Seattle Kraken's proposed Community Iceplex. The council also authorized Councilmember Penny Sweet to vote in favor of a contract with Tacoma Public Utilities at the Cascade Water Alliance board meeting, and approved the 2024 Neighborhood Safety Program projects. Additionally, the council directed staff to prepare legislative request memorandums on the Neighborhood Safety Program and the automated traffic safety camera program.

Tue May 7, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to vote on zoning code amendments and homelessness framework

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session and regular meeting to discuss and potentially adopt several items, including a resolution on homelessness, zoning code amendments, and support for a transit line. The agenda also includes proclamations, consent calendar items, and an executive session on potential litigation.

zoninghomelessnesstransitpublic-safetyproclamationsbidscode-amendments
✓ Decided: Council approves zoning code amendments and $1.3M striping contract

The Kirkland City Council approved two zoning and land use ordinances (O-4876 and O-4877) as part of the 2024 miscellaneous code amendments, and awarded a $1,317,434.75 construction contract for the Annual Striping Program 2024 to Specialized Pavement Marking, Inc. The council also approved a $20,000 fiscal note for the Sustainability Neighborhood Ambassador Program and authorized a letter of support for the RapidRide K Line Totem Lake alignment on 120th Ave NE. All votes were 7-0.

Tue Apr 16, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to discuss homelessness framework and ARCH strategic plan

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session to discuss a proposed resolution on a person-centered homelessness framework and the ARCH strategic plan. The regular meeting includes proclamations, consent calendar items, and business items such as a community survey check-in, a mobile health program update, and a resolution on international conflict.

homelessnesshousinghealthsustainabilityinterlocal-agreementproclamation
✓ Decided: Council approves $232,637 for temporary MIH firefighter/EMT position

The Kirkland City Council approved a $232,637 fiscal note to fund a temporary Firefighter/EMT position in the Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) Unit through 2025, using King County Medic One Levy funds. The council also approved Resolution R-5630 on international conflict statements, a consent calendar including the Redmond paramedic co-location agreement, and a substitute ordinance on the Tourism Development Committee. A motion to increase the committee's membership failed 2-5, but the substitute ordinance passed 6-1.

Tue Apr 2, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to vote on building permit moratorium for Goat Hill area

The Kirkland City Council will hold a public hearing to affirm the adoption of Ordinance O-4870, which imposes a moratorium on new building permits in the Goat Hill area. The agenda also includes decisions on the 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program policy principles and a proposed childcare stipend for board members. Additionally, the council will review bid awards for infrastructure projects, including storm drain repairs on NE Juanita Drive.

zoninghousingcapital-improvementinfrastructurecity-governance
✓ Decided: Council approves Goat Hill building permit moratorium and $1.98M fire training contract

The Kirkland City Council approved a 7-0 motion affirming the emergency moratorium on new dwelling unit building permits in the Goat Hill area (Ordinance O-4875). The consent calendar, also passed 7-0, awarded contracts including $1,975,505.81 for Fire Station 24 training props, $340,090.57 for the NE Juanita Drive storm drain repair, and $1,055,290.20 for pedestrian safety improvements. The council also approved a childcare stipend program for board and commission members with a $20,000 fiscal note, and tabled action on increasing Tourism Development Committee membership.

Tue Mar 19, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to weigh pool options, CIP priorities, and street naming

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session with the Transportation Commission on the 2024-2025 work plan and the Transportation Strategic Plan. At the regular meeting, they will consider a resolution to suspend a 2024 community pool ballot measure and explore year-round use of Peter Kirk Pool and alternative uses of the Houghton Park and Ride property, as well as set policy principles for the 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program. They will also vote on an ordinance naming an access road 'Raven Way' and approve several consent calendar items including construction contracts and a city manager employment agreement.

transportationpoolcapital-improvement-programstreet-namingcity-managerconstructionpublic-safety
✓ Decided: Council suspends 2024 community pool ballot measure, approves $168K Attain Housing grant

The Kirkland City Council voted 7-0 to suspend further exploration of a 2024 community pool ballot measure and authorized the city manager to develop options for year-round use of the Peter Kirk Pool and alternative uses of the Houghton Park and Ride property. The council also approved a $168,000 grant to Attain Housing to preserve affordable housing assets, and approved two construction contracts totaling over $2.5 million. Several items were approved via the consent calendar, including the Raven Way street name dedication and a city manager employment agreement.

Tue Mar 5, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to consider $43.9M bond for transportation, fire, safety projects

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session on water supply negotiations and the 2044 Comprehensive Plan, then a regular meeting with public hearings, consent items, and business. Key actions include a second reading of a debt ordinance authorizing up to $43.9 million in bonds for transportation and public safety facilities, and amendments to the purchasing code. The agenda also includes a proclamation for Women's History Month and updates on the urban forest work plan and legislative session.

bondstransportationpublic-safetypurchasingurban-forestcomprehensive-planwater-supply
✓ Decided: Council approves $43.9M bond for transportation, fire, safety projects

The Kirkland City Council approved a $43.9 million bond ordinance for transportation and fire/public safety facilities, and amended the purchasing code to allow pre-authorization of contracts under $2 million. It also approved repairs to the Pride Crosswalk with community collaboration, and confirmed several appointments and reports via the consent calendar.

Tue Feb 20, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to consider $43.9M bond for transportation and fire facilities

The Kirkland City Council will hold a study session and regular meeting. Key items include a first reading of an ordinance authorizing up to $43.9 million in bonds for transportation and fire/public safety projects, adoption of the 2024-2026 Planning Work Program, and updates on neighborhood plans. The consent calendar includes routine approvals and reports.

budgetbondstransportationfireplanningparkingteen-services
✓ Decided: Council takes pro position on HB 2114, approves $43.9M bond ordinance

The Kirkland City Council voted 4-3 to take a pro position on HB 2114, allowing the city to sign in and testify in support. They also approved the first reading of ordinance O-4871, authorizing up to $43.9 million in bonds for transportation and fire facility projects. The consent calendar was approved 7-0, including a $1,999,150.32 construction contract for the Goat Hill Drainage Ditch project.

Tue Feb 6, 2024

City Council Meeting

Council to hear petition halting forested land development, plus water supply and greenway updates

The Kirkland City Council is holding a study session and regular meeting with updates on Cascade Water Alliance negotiations, the Stores to Shores Greenway project, and decorative pavement markings. The council will also consider a petition to halt residential development on four forested parcels, along with consent calendar items including an HVAC contract and code ordinance.

zoninghousingwaterparksbudgetconstructionpublic-hearing
✓ Decided: Council approves Goat Hill building permit moratorium and HAWK crossing

The Council approved a temporary moratorium on building permit applications in the Goat Hill area (Ordinance O-4870, 7-0) and approved a HAWK signalized pedestrian crossing on 100th Avenue NE at an estimated cost of $1,056,750 (7-0). The consent calendar was approved, including a $223,000 HVAC contract and several resolutions. A petition to halt forest land development was accepted for study, and a letter supporting Woodinville's RAISE grant was approved.

Tue Jan 16, 2024

City Council Meeting

Kirkland Council to award bids for Kirkland Ave/Lake St intersection improvements

The Kirkland City Council will hold a regular meeting on January 16, 2024, to approve the award of bids for the Kirkland Avenue/Lake Street Intersection Improvements Project. The agenda also includes a study session on Houghton Park and Ride activation options and draft questions for a post-ballot measure community survey. Additionally, the council will consider Ordinance O-4869, which grants a franchise to the Lake Washington School District for fiber optic cable construction.

roadszoninginfrastructureeducationcouncil
✓ Decided: Council awards $2.03M Kirkland Ave/Lake St intersection contract

The council approved the consent calendar 7-0, awarding a $2,025,811 construction contract to New X, Inc. for the Kirkland Avenue/Lake Street intersection improvements. It also adopted the 2024 City Council Committee Assignments, as amended to add Councilmember Sweet to the Eastside Transportation Partnership, in a 7-0 vote. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included study session briefings and an executive session on potential litigation.

Tue Jan 2, 2024

City Council Meeting

Kirkland Council selects new Mayor and Deputy Mayor and adopts 2023-2028 transportation plan

The Kirkland City Council held a regular meeting to elect its new leadership, including the Mayor and Deputy Mayor. The body also voted on the adoption of the 2023-2028 Transportation Improvement Program and an interlocal agreement with Redmond for Fire Station 27. Additionally, the council reviewed the Fire Station 26 Renovation Project bid award and followed up on the pool ballot measure.

leadershiptransportationfire-servicesbudgetpublic-works
✓ Decided: Council adopts 2023-2028 Transportation Improvement Program

The Kirkland City Council approved the 2023-2028 Transportation Improvement Program (Resolution R-5617) unanimously. The council also approved the consent calendar, which included a $5.86 million construction contract for the Fire Station 26 Renovation Project, and selected Kelli Curtis as Mayor and Jay Arnold as Deputy Mayor. No other substantive decisions were made; several items were discussed for future action.