びびなび : シアトル : (アメリカ合衆国) Seattle

Happy Friday!





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2025 Mayor Newsletter Header




March 21, 2025 






State of the City

mayors for state of the city [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/kent-mayor/state-of-the-city-2024?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Happy Friday, Kent!

Last night’s State of the City Address was a fantastic evening, and I’m so grateful for the incredible turnout!

It was great to see so many new and familiar faces and have the opportunity to share updates on what we accomplished last year, the work currently underway, and the exciting things on the horizon for Kent.

A special thank you to Mayor Nancy Backus (Auburn), Mayor Sean Kelly (Maple Valley), Mayor Kevin Schilling (Burien), Mayor Mary Lou Pauly (Issaquah), Mayor Thomas McLeod (Tukwila), Mayor Traci Buxton (Des Moines), and Mayor Armondo Pavone (Renton) for joining us. I also appreciate the support from members of the Kent City Council and council members from across South King County who took the time to be there. 

If you missed the event, *you can watch the full speech on the city’s Facebook page.* [ https://www.facebook.com/CityofKent?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Thanks again to everyone who attended. Your engagement and support mean the world.

Hope you have a great weekend!

Dana Ralph, Kent Mayor






Weekly Roundup

transit

Thank you, Councilmember Claudia Balducci, and ATU 587 for organizing the King County Regional Transit Safety Taskforce Kickoff.

Transit should be safe for both operators and passengers. It is my hope that this taskforce inspires real change in policies that will accomplish that.





mayor red cross

Last weekend, the American Red Cross, Puget Sound Fire [ https://www.facebook.com/pugetsoundfire?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZWFAtWKcERnU5xHmZ4HMYd_TrkVPCc-FNpuwdE6uzY4UqKXoGwXvpeX07Kt7AMTVgMadJADaLuYpb91bGsl3kYmFcOGH6CaRqzNiH2_AXyrQgWabLiSnabkYht_xYeRZyDe-7uI7EjOlO4ndrqfhWKT2uvl8VHydwlMSWBnALBBkv1O6gilFpN_lezhBLztrR7KmaKnqk1xDH3O9FmnBbLQmH2aE-Y4cnjgTmorGfrmbA&__tn__=-%5DK-R&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] and many caring Kent volunteers were out in six mobile home parks checking and installing smoke detectors.

Every day, seven people die in a house fire. Working smoke detectors cut that risk in half!

Check out SoundTheAlarm.org [ https://l.facebook.com/l.php?__tn__=-UK-R&c%5B0%5D=AT0eotvGYqLPm-96pBpv_67Hv9iRuYX1UDMhBO1tqzZRiHkHthYSnpTeIDQi16SS0mtpEWFZsVVMZ3VxCYwH0tl7LeMtuy3h0sUbs1wzxspbwV7A3taYeBfoafEZdEXDqR4kqOi9DKZmzr2K_ip7ncDIkk_RrBC9qQP1v9zg67kLr9QXp41a0DEHDsw_kTUJOqhLsVddp4HYcNJePt_epmy3YZ-AzM6F9lsYtgXDi_OTLkG9nd58nSVDHQ&h=AT1BGdsLLnqEf5kGGLZ4PQfDh6eEHPMqQElmQvdRd-A8b1IO-ngRA2RYEVuXtGhpOtqyiSbC5DV8HSKu30tDbkbhUeb49uCCxu28jGL9FCFMii0BHnRrIskNioIn0FuQzba44gIgLrbbZw&u=http%3A%2F%2FSoundTheAlarm.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2MmET6Db78H0ctgGkFSd34WdBXavTtL0mSdWX0ExAbOXSQgu3gLq7qjiE_aem_d7_zTyPhNtqIMJ8rZuOPeA%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dgovdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] for more information on this life saving program.





good eggs

King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer's monthly “Good Eggs” breakfasts are always educational.

This morning, we heard from CEO of Hawaiian Airlines Joe Sprague. He discussed the Alaska Airlines merger and the role the airline plays on serving employees, guests, and communities. 

Pictured below: King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, CEO Hawaiian Airlines Joe Sprague, Mayor of Pacific Vic Cave, Mayor of Auburn Nancy Backus, Mayor of Enumclaw Jan Molinaro, Mayor of Algona Troy Linnell, Mayor of Des Moines Tracy Buxton, Mayor of Edgewood Dave Olson, Mayor of Renton Armando Pavone, Mayor of Federal Way Jim Ferrell. 





proc

At Tuesday night's Kent City Council meeting, we honored *Rudolph L. King III*, a member of our extended Kent family, whose impact continues to be felt throughout our community.

We are proud to recognize his legacy with deep respect and remembrance. 





mrsc

The Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) is a nonprofit organization that helps local governments across Washington State better serve their communities by providing legal and policy guidance on any topic.

Last Friday, board members and MRSC staff spent the day working on the strategic plan that will guide the organization into the future.

MRSC is an important resource for local governments, and I am proud to be a part of the board as we work to ensure accessibility and relevancy of MRSC for cities, counties and special purpose districts.





communities in schools

 

 

Last week, I attended the Communities in Schools of South King County breakfast. 

They are doing such important work for our kids.

Having someone in your corner as you navigate all the challenges of growing up is truly a game changer. That is what CISSK does through mentorship programs and support.





Employee of the Month

EOM March

Congratulations to our March 2025 Employee of the Month, Assistant City Attorney Leif Drangsholt.

Leif joined the City of Kent in April 2022 as a Prosecuting Attorney and has been an invaluable member of our team ever since.

Known for his diligence, compassion, and teamwork, Leif goes above and beyond—whether staying late to ensure accuracy, supporting victims and witnesses with care, or stepping in to help colleagues without hesitation. His dedication was especially evident in a recent trial, where he expertly navigated unexpected legal challenges to ensure justice was served.

Leif embodies our city’s values, and we’re proud to recognize him as March’s Employee of the Month. Congratulations, Leif!



Registration is now open for 2025 Green Kent events!

We look forward to another season of restoring and conserving our parks and natural spaces with the support of our community.

*Check out this season’s event schedule and sign up as a volunteer today! MyKentParks.com/GreenKent [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/volunteering/outdoor-conservation-events?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

8 [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/volunteering/outdoor-conservation-events?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]



PSRC study

Want to guarantee you’re represented in future regional transportation plans?

Check your mailbox from now until June for an invitation to complete the Puget Sound Regional Travel Study.

Invited households will receive a gift card for participating! *To learn more, visit: survey.psrc.org [ https://survey.psrc.org/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*





Annual Diaper Drive
diaper drive

Help us collect diapers and wipes for the 11th Annual March for Diapers Drive. During March, donate diapers and wipes at Kent City Hall during business hours.

Every year, the City of Kent joins other South King County cities in collecting diapers and wipes for babies in need.

We have set up a diaper corral in City Hall lobby to collect donations until March 28. We are asking for any child diapers preemie to size 6, as well as pullups and baby wipes. We will take half used packages too!

Two outstanding organizations that serve Kent that will receive donations from this drive are: Domestic Abuse Women's Network (DAWN) & Kent's Pediatric Interim Care Center (PICC



neighborhood [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/neighborhood-program/neighborhood-grant-program?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Last call for applications! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/neighborhood-program/neighborhood-grant-program?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

Applications for our Matching Grant program are due April 1! This offers matching funds on a competitive basis to recognized neighborhood councils to develop and implement projects which will enhance the livability of their communities.





cookie hooky [ https://www.accessoshowarecenter.com/events/2025/cookie-hooky?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Cookie Hooky* [ https://www.accessoshowarecenter.com/events/2025/cookie-hooky?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] is the sweetest way to shake up your workday, and is hosted at accesso ShoWare Center May 8th from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

This fun-filled fundraiser is all about raising money for the Community Events Fund which will support local non-profits by providing the opportunity for kids and families to enjoy events in the greater Kent area.





birds [ https://chl.ca/whl-thunderbirds/schedule/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

 

Catch the last regular season Thunderbirds game tomorrow against the Portland Winterhawks! The game begins at 6:05 p.m. at the accesso ShoWare Center. Go Birds!





Apply for Boards and Commissions

KBAB [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Our Bicycle Advisory Board is accepting applications for new members. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

Members advise the council, mayor and staff on projects, policies and programs that affect cycling conditions in Kent!



parks [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Do you want to get more involved with our Parks department? *Apply to serve on our Kent Parks & Recreation Commission!  [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*Commissioners work directly with the Kent Parks Department to provide input on strategic planning efforts that influence our parks system.





DEI board [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Applications are now being accepted for the city's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Board!

The goal of the board is to increase engagement, integration, and access to city services for all cultural communities in Kent.

You can learn about the city's work in these areas and the Equity Strategic Plan at *KentWA.gov/Race-Equity* [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/race-equity?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* and* *apply to be on the board here! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*







Sidewalk Sessions

Sidewalk Sessions [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/neighborhood-program/sidewalk-sessions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

We’re thrilled to launch Sidewalk Sessions—a brand-new way for our Public Works team and me to connect with you directly in your neighborhood!

Public Works is the backbone of our community. From smooth roads and safe sidewalks to reliable utilities, their work keeps Kent running strong. We’ll visit neighborhoods across the city to share updates, answer questions, and hear what’s important to you.

This is your chance to learn more about the incredible work happening behind the scenes to maintain and improve Kent’s infrastructure—and how it all impacts your daily life.
*Sign up to bring Sidewalk Sessions to your neighborhood! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/neighborhood-program/sidewalk-sessions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*





curbside clean up [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/public-works/environmental/talking-trash-recycle-and-clean-up-events-for-residents/spring-fall-curbside-clean-up?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*April 7-11 is curbside clean-up time! *

With Kent's annual "Spring and Fall Curbside Clean-up" programs, residents may rid themselves of extra yard waste and garbage.

The events are free to all residential households living in the Kent city limits. Simply place your extra garbage and yard waste at the curb on your regular yard waste pick-up day. *Here's all the info! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/public-works/environmental/talking-trash-recycle-and-clean-up-events-for-residents/spring-fall-curbside-clean-up?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*





recycle event [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/public-works/environmental/talking-trash-recycle-and-clean-up-events-for-residents/recycling-collection-events?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Our Mini Recycling Event is Friday, April 11 at Hogan Park.

Instead of going to the landfill as trash, all collected items will be reused or recycled! Learn more about accepted items at KentWA.gov/Recycle [ http://kentwa.gov/Recycle?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0J7Q_U40lsTjdcyxujflr7-7kEOA5sSyF6X3KGrpPTA8qY4hw5zhHz5dE_aem_i40-shS4vNFPvryXjjECmw&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Paint will not be accepted at our mini collection events.







Kent Parks and Recreation





park shelter [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/Rentals?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Park Shelter Rentals are now open for the 2025 season! Park Shelters are available to reserve from May 1 - September 30. The shelter at West Fenwick Park is available to reserve for groups to 25!

*Learn more about all of the available rentals and how you can now check shelter availability online. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/rentals?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

As a reminder, all reservations must be completed in person at the Kent Commons Community Center. Call the Kent Commons at 253-856-5100 if you have any questions.




tossball [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/sports-athletics/youth-sports?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Registration is now closed for all Spring sports.

If you would still like to sign your child up for T-Ball/Tossball, Soccer, or Volleyball, late registrations will be taken on a space-available basis.

Call the Kent Commons Community Center at 253-856-5100 to inquire about availability and register over the phone! " "




lifeguard [ https://wd1.myworkdaysite.com/en-US/recruiting/cityofkent/External/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

We are looking for trained, certificated lifeguards to join our team for the 2025 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! [ https://wd1.myworkdaysite.com/en-US/recruiting/cityofkent/External/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*






Kent Parks Spring/Summer Guide

parks guide [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

In case you missed it, registration is now open for all Spring and Summer programs.

From day camps and FREE summer concerts to youth sports and programs for adults age 50 and older, there is truly something for everyone. Browse a digital copy of the new guide or register for a program online at *MyKentParks.com/Register* [ http://mykentparks.com/register?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]



jobs of the month [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/human-resources/career-opportunities?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

 

We're hiring! Check out our featured jobs and find great opportunities on our hiring page at *jobs.kentwa.gov [ https://jobs.kentwa.gov/jobs?page_number=2&page_size=10&sort_by=headline&sort_order=ASC&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*





kent works app [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/public-works?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

The KentWorks app lets you access information and improve your neighborhood and community by reporting *non-emergency issues* to the city. 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!







kentnow [ https://open.spotify.com/show/36b7AAD35koKHGn8d4FTIm?si=3adff7653f4641f1&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Join Tracy, Josh and Kyle as they update you on the important, fun, and interesting things happening in the City of Kent!

Listen now on:
?? Apple Podcasts *apple.co/3J2UMkd [ https://t.co/kiMUAwAMdU?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*
?? Spotify *spoti.fi/3GNCeli [ https://t.co/MccBJhOIlp?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*
?? Amazon Music *amzn.to/3jjaOvU [ https://amzn.to/3jjaOvU?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



parks spotlight [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/arts/spotlight-series?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Our final performance of the 2024-2025 Spotlight Series is SOLD OUT for tonight! Lúnasa takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. and will put on one incredible show.

This five-piece band has long been one of contemporary Irish music’s leading voices. They have performed more than 2,000 shows across 36 countries. We are so grateful to have them on stage tonight!

Thank you to all who joined us at a Spotlight Series show this season. The Kent Parks team loves shining on a light on the best entertainment and bringing these performers here to Kent!






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City of Kent, Washington

KentWA.gov [ https://www.kentwa.gov?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]  |  253-856-5200

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