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




April 4, 2025






thunderbirds logo

Happy Friday, Kent!

Playoff hockey is in full swing, and our Seattle Thunderbirds are ready for battle! Game 4 against the Everett Silvertips is tonight at 7:05 p.m. at accesso ShoWare Center!

Let’s pack the arena, bring the energy, and cheer our T-Birds on to victory!

As always, there's so much happening around the city and I'm excited to share this week's updates with you. I hope you enjoy and have a wonderful weekend!

Dana Ralph, Kent Mayor






Weekly Roundup



arab heritage month

April is National Arab American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Arab Americans around the country!





kalsa day

At Tuesday night's Kent City Council meeting, I presented a proclamation recognizing April 13 as Vaisakhi and Khalsa Day in Kent!

Vaisakhi is a significant celebration in the Sikh community, marking both a harvest festival and the establishment of the Khalsa in 1699. It’s a time for reflection, unity, and reaffirming the values of truth, equality, and service.





arbor day

Also at Tuesday night's Kent City Council meeting, I presented Gillian Lawrence, from the city's Parks Maintenance team, with a proclamation for Arbor Day—a day dedicated to planting, nurturing, and celebrating trees.





ivy

Earlier this week, I met with Ivy for her Civics project. She is a senior at Kentwood. Ivy's mom and brother also joined us.

She had many of great questions about being a mayor and city government. We discussed the issues facing our community and country. I was definitely impressed with her insight and compassion.

Ivy is hoping to follow in her mom's footsteps and become a nurse and care for others. I know she will be amazing.





kent 101 finance

Only 1 more session of Kent 101!

This week, Chief Padilla talked about the incredible work of our Police Department. It’s been amazing watching our participants engage and learn more about how our city operates!





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 ]*





peg lot

Spoiler alert on the demolition that's been happening in the vacant lot downtown!

This space is being converted to an extension of Kherson Park and sod is coming in next season.





bees [ https://www.downtownkentwa.com/event/ssh25/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Kent Downtown Partnership kicked off their Spring scavenger hunt last weekend! It's a free, fun, family-friendly activity running the whole month of April--with the chance to win awesome prizes!

Little stuffed bees have scattered across Kent, and they need your help to track them down. Search for the hidden bees, complete your passport, and submit it for a chance to win prizes from local businesses. *Get your scavenger hunt passport here!  [ https://www.downtownkentwa.com/event/ssh25/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*





diapers

Thank you to those who donated to the 11th Annual March for Diapers Drive.

The 2400 donated diapers and 1668 wipes will stay here in Kent and go to Domestic Abuse Women's Network (DAWN) & Kent's Pediatric Interim Care Center (PICC).





Kent City Council

Here's the recap on this week's Kent City Council meeting!

*As a reminder, you can view meeting agendas, minutes and live stream recordings here!  [ https://kentwa.iqm2.com/citizens/default.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

council 1council 2


kristen

Last week, our Economic and Community Development team had a great time at Mattson Career Day, as we introduced students to the world of city planning!

During two interactive sessions, Long Range Planning Manager Kristen Holdsworth shared insights about city planning and how communities evolve. Then, students got creative—building collages to showcase their vision for the future of Downtown Kent as part of our ReDiscover Downtown project.

We love seeing the next generation get involved in shaping our city!





curbside clean up spring [ 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 ]

*It's curbside clean-up time! *

April 7-11 is Kent's annual "Spring and Fall Curbside Clean-up" program where 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 ]*





dshs

If you received a message from DSHS about potential EBT card theft, take action now. Call the number on the back of your card or visit a DSHS office to request a new card—changing the PIN alone isn’t enough.

Reminder: DSHS will never ask for personal info via text. Learn more: dshs.wa.gov/text [ http://dshs.wa.gov/text?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]





dd month

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

Kent PD will join regional police departments to conduct additional enforcement for distracted drivers.

Distractions are still a factor in 30% of fatal crashes across Washington. It takes all of us to keep our roadways safe. Help us all get from one place to the next safely. On the road, off the phone!





Target Zero

target zero [ https://engage.kentwa.gov/kent-target-zero-action-plan?tool=guest_book&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Traffic safety is a top priority in Kent, and last week’s community corridor meeting is an important step in making our streets safer for everyone.

Thank you, Sara, from our KPD Community Education Unit and King County Target Zero for bringing together local leaders, agencies, and community members for this critical conversation. Your hard work and dedication are making a real difference.

In Kent, we take a well-rounded approach to traffic safety, focusing on the 3 Es:

Engineering – Creating safer roads and infrastructure to prevent collisions before they happen.

Education – Ensuring drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians have the knowledge to make safe choices.

Enforcement – Holding drivers accountable and reinforcing rules that keep our community safe.

These efforts work hand in hand to protect our residents, whether they’re walking to school, commuting to work, or simply enjoying everything our city has to offer. But we can’t do this alone. It takes all of us—local government, law enforcement, engineers, and community members—working together to make our streets safer.

I encourage you to check out the media coverage on this important discussion:

*Kent Reporter: Slower is Safer – Steps to Increase Traffic Safety in South King County* [ https://www.kentreporter.com/news/slower-is-safer-steps-to-increase-traffic-safety-in-south-king-county/?fbclid=IwY2xjawJbqmFleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHef6hmHwhACr8EnPFMdwrcfsNlJOpFdzsB8SKWdnysihI3N3rkfyDvXWlg_aem_XlBq3Kp6OKqW05SkGvDMnQ&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] 

*KOMO News: State Safety Commission Launches Study into Notorious Stretch of King County Road [ https://komonews.com/news/local/state-safety-commission-high-profile-accidents-king-county-target-zero-coalition-11-mile-stretch-washington-wtsc-state-route-516-169-interechange-kent-intersection?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

By continuing these conversations and putting action behind our words, we can make a real impact.



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

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 ]*





recycling [ 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.





pse small biz [ https://www.pse.com/en/pages/pse-events/Coming-soon-to-small-businesses-in-Kent?short_url=smallbizkent&utm_campaign=smb-aware&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

 

 

Puget Sound Energy will be in Kent offering small businesses free energy-efficiency assessments and easy upgrades April 22 - 24.

More Information: *pse.com/smallbizkent [ https://www.pse.com/en/pages/pse-events/Coming-soon-to-small-businesses-in-Kent?short_url=smallbizkent&utm_campaign=smb-aware&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

If you have questions, email: smallbusiness@pse.com



Arbor Day

arbor day

We are kicking off our Green Kent program this weekend with the Arbor Day event, hosted by our Parks staff.

Come join staff and volunteers as they plant our ceremonial Arbor Day tree and other native trees and shrubs to celebrate Kent's 24th year as a Tree City USA!

?? Tomorrow, April 5
⌚ 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
?? 3 Friends Fishing Hole

Community members of all ages are welcome to volunteer and work to help keep our parks and natural areas healthy and thriving.



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 ]*







Employee of the Month
EOM

Officer Jacob Berry has been a dedicated member of the Kent Police Department since 2018.

Since joining the Neighborhood Response Team (NRT), Officer Berry has tackled some of Kent’s most challenging nuisance properties, holding responsible parties accountable while offering support and solutions. His persistence and creative problem-solving have made a lasting impact on the community.

Beyond his police work, Officer Berry is a true team player. He’s engaging at community events and even launched Badges and Barbells*,* a fitness event at a local CrossFit gym to strengthen connections between officers and residents.

We’re proud to recognize Officer Berry for his hard work, leadership, and dedication to the City of Kent. Congratulations, Jacob!






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.




Springwood Park [ https://engage.kentwa.gov/hub-page/engage-kent-parks?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Check out this sneak peek of progress at Springwood Park!

While the park remains closed during construction, the project is moving along!

The park is estimated to re-open later this Spring.

Follow along with the project online at *EngageKentParks.com* [ https://l.facebook.com/l.php?__tn__=-UK-y-R&c%5B0%5D=AT0wtwMWu7_33-JL68v-1WCjtCDzI6UvO7Vf4aFC-BvduUfYRtuiFnQsamGsN4bu9OMwGFAut8yHYw7ibF15gNhrz5E1x3pC6g2gjKlqtiJCyOjt_sUfdiryN52B_qOTTwe0mlMxGhdxJRvr6NMR_9EUE53CLWwkYId6oHm8jyEychBW7tkBOoYi87SrnObnBisuIOrCvsGSVuyDhBnUVUueWMtOcDxF3oRpXfpT0mqmio4AzA&h=AT19HzRiz8GxSFQ9U4F-WzuPlx_2_c4ocxtHXFyGjCTXFL8Jlhqu8sspoA3qbuIDJn3x2VMRXySrymeCs_X2KQPSUYVm9kdH-EsJKcrepAehP63XHowz3DNf8aFQXM6URpDC5bz9LRqpPQ&u=http%3A%2F%2FEngageKentParks.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR11bzzXdPr3kS5gu26PrKZCmYbGIoqE9h1TC7iUOiX_hdakZ21-I_6tQ78_aem_hattadhoqphli9q6TvNiLQ%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dgovdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]!




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 ]*






RASKC

Get your furry friends licensed with *Regional Animal Services of King County [ https://kingcounty.gov/depts/regional-animal-services.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* to help get them back to you if they're ever lost! 

Your license also helps fund RASKC's life-saving animal shelter work. They reunite lost pets 24/7 and provide shelter pet care 365 days a year.





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!





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.







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

In case you missed the State of the City address, we have it posted up on the KentNow podcast. 

Josh, Tracy and Kyle will be back next week with more. 

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 guide [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/arts/spotlight-series?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 ]






Translations A/文





*Traducción en Español* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3d9dba3?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=es&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




*ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਵਿੱਚ ਅਨੁਵਾਦ* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3d9dba3?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=pa&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




*Bản dịch tiếng Việt* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3d9dba3?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=vi&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]






*Перевод на русский язык* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3d9dba3?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=ru&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




*中文翻译* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3d9dba3?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=zh-CN&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




*日本語で * [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3d9dba3?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=ja&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]






*مترجم إلى اللغة العربية* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3d9dba3?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=ar&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




*Lagu turjumay af-soomaali* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3d9dba3?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=so&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




*Переклад на українську мову* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3d9dba3?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=uk&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]








 

City of Kent, Washington

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