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Mayor Ralph's Weekly Update

Happy Friday!





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2025 Mayor Newsletter Header




April 18, 2025






kent council

Happy Friday, Kent!

I’m excited to share that Ezee Fiber has officially broken ground here in Kent! This $400 million investment will bring ultra-fast fiber internet to homes and businesses across our city.

At this week’s groundbreaking, members of the Kent City Council joined the Ezee Fiber team for a groundbreaking event!

Ezee fiber attendees included Pedro Checo, Executive Vice President of Customer Operations; Tim Williamson, Vice President of Marketing; Austin Christoffersen, Director of Government Affairs; and Eddie Abreu, Senior Vice President and General Manager for the Pacific Northwest Region.

With over 350 new jobs coming to the region and a new headquarters based right here in Kent, this is a huge step forward for our community.

Installations are expected to begin soon. I can’t wait to see the impact this project has on our neighborhoods, schools, and businesses.

As always, a lot is going on around the city and I'm excited to share this week's updates with you. Hope you enjoy and have a fantastic weekend!

Dana Ralph, Kent Mayor






Weekly Roundup

easter

As we head into Easter weekend, I want to take a moment to wish you and your loved ones a joyful and restful holiday.

Whether you're celebrating with family traditions, enjoying a community egg hunt, or simply taking in the signs of spring, I hope this weekend brings you peace, hope, and connection.





kent 101

This week our Spring Kent 101 students graduated at our Kent City Council meeting.

These folks are well on their way to becoming Kent ambassadors, and I couldn’t be more grateful for their engagement and enthusiasm!





sexual assult awareness month

At this week’s Council meeting, we proclaimed April as *Sexual Assault Awareness Month* in the City of Kent.

Thank you to Kate Garvey and Dennis Higgins from the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center for accepting the proclamation. Together, we’re committed to supporting survivors, raising awareness, and building a safer future for all. Read the full proclamation: bit.ly/3EkyWZC [ http://bit.ly/3EkyWZC?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]





sara

Distractions remain a factor in 30% of fatal crashes across Washington. It could be a quick text or glance at your GPS, taking your eyes off the road can cost lives. Let’s all do our part: On the road, off the phone.

At last night's Kent City Council Meeting, Councilmember Bill Boyce presented a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Dana Ralph, recognizing this important effort. Thank you, Target Zero Manager Sara Hallsted, for accepting and for her continued work toward safer streets.





tele

This week, I was proud to proclaim April 13–19 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in the City of Kent.

We are incredibly grateful for the dedicated professionals at Valley Communications Center who serve as the critical link between our community and emergency services. Since 1977, they’ve been there for us, day or night, helping keep Kent safe.

We thank all our 911 call receivers, dispatchers, support staff, and managers for the vital role they play in protecting lives.





earth day

Join Kent Parks, friends, and neighbors on Saturday, April 19, as we participate in the world's largest environmental conservation event: Earth Day!

This is a great opportunity to show some love to our little corner of this big, beautiful planet.

At this year's Earth Day event, volunteers will be removing invasive species and planting native plants alongside the creek at Clark Lake Park! 

During Green Kent events, volunteers gain experience with hands-on environmental conservation and is truly a great way to give back. Community members of all ages are welcome to volunteer and work to help keep our parks and natural areas healthy and thriving. 

 Learn more and register online today at *MyKentParks.com/GreenKent [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/volunteering/outdoor-conservation-events?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



Kent City Council

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

cc 1



cc2

*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 ]*



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 ]*





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

Kent Downtown Partnership is in the middle of their Spring scavenger hunt! 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 ]*





Kent Commons Grand Re-Opening

commons



The building remodel at the Kent Commons Community Center is nearing completion!

This exciting project is expected to wrap soon, with the facility slated to return to normal operations later this month.

The Kent Commons will boast a new entrance and front counter, an expanded weight room and locker rooms, along with a new family restroom and two refreshment areas with vending machines containing snacks and beverages.

?? Sunday, May 4  
⌚ 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
??  Kent Commons 525 4th Ave. N

Join the Kent Parks team to commemorate the culmination of this refresh with a fun and FREE celebration that is open to all. Come and explore what's NEW, attend the ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:30am, and enjoy FREE ice cream, popcorn, and an exclusive giveaway! 



hops and cops

Meet Chief Padilla and officers on May 7 at the Harp Bar and Restaurant for another Hops and Cops event! 

This is an opportunity to ask questions, meet the Kent Police Department staff that handles your concerns, and connect with law enforcement that serves our community.

?? Wednesday, May 7
⌚ 4 p.m.- 6 p.m.
?? The Harp Bar and Restaurant (24415 Russell Rd)



Medicine Take Back Day

drug take back day

The Kent Police Department is partnering with the DEA to collect any unused/expired medications. Medicines that sit in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse.

?? Saturday, April 26
⌚ 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
?? Kent Police Department (220 4th Ave S.)

*Here's some information on how to drop off medications and what we can and cannot take. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/police-department/community-education?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* *If you have questions, please email sjudd@kentwa.gov*



teen acadmy [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/police-department/community-education?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

The Kent Police Department is accepting applications for this year's Teen Police Academy on June 24–26.

This hands-on experience is open to current Kent sophomores, juniors, seniors, and 2025 graduates who want to explore careers in law enforcement or learn more about the specialty units that serve our community.

Participants will dive into topics like K9, SWAT, detectives, narcotics, building searches, and mock scenarios.

?? Apply by May 29
?? Questions? Contact Stacy Judd at *sjudd@kentwa.gov* or 253-856-5883.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to see what it’s like behind the badge!



Team Up 2 Clean Up

team up to clean up



Each spring and fall, the City of Kent hosts TeamUp2CleanUp: a little cleanup event where community members work to beautify Kent as individuals or in teams at various locations around the city. 

We provide garbage bags and disposal, safety vests and little grabbers. Gloves are recommended and closed shoes are required. 

?? Saturday, May 17
?? 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Meet our teams at one of the following locations:
??East Hill: Kent United Methodist Church (11010 SE 248th St)
??Downtown: Kherson Park (307 West Gowe)
??West Hill: West Hill Plaza (24700 Military Road)
??*Clean your OWN location! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/21314/638435032217800000?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



ada [ https://engage.kentwa.gov/ADA?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

We're updating our ADA Transition Plan for facilities in the public right-of-way and we want to hear from you! Share your thoughts at *Engage.KentWA.gov/ADA* [ https://l.facebook.com/l.php?__tn__=-UK-R&c%5B0%5D=AT0gG4GfDQLtNgzvQOQLmNHvy_wIdcaXPU44ZRgMNvQoV4TUiUH4t9ab7E2xBM7sQgAW3LnlScefCi6urcPl9f1eXnl0aS5P5MY4w1_FxUswORxcyE-j3SPSNzh_LE9ZHgBjKtRH8BXycoPQU40IuAaxOqKr_mUAobaTui12wLGE3jI9869_SXcsFy-ira5qeLGOr0kxC05WInp6OmzTeEK8hQ&h=AT1M-khtEbnajfUg84w_S5Omv3gT2g-M6DDmURuIC7ls1Di9DYC6PHNOsS2HO9WcsU07haNJ7QWauxrqQ4PROw5v2D7iNimbr9N_3Ns7aIM3zZCD73CpiZnQXarF1P_zol2P9lMwXSfrUA&u=https%3A%2F%2FEngage.KentWA.gov%2FADA%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR6vWAgQE6uLbdlAEhsGRZ60185Jtbe1ACAe7P4eqILSdMkt9NTQ2mN-2WvtXA_aem_vKIpHIqN7dlc_LlPVBEIXg%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dgovdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Our goal is to improve accessibility around the city to enable all people to get around safely and easily.





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





jobs of the month

 

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 ]*





bike rodeo

Our annual Bike Rodeo event is a fun, interactive, non-competitive skills course designed for kids to improve their bike handling and traffic safety skills. 

Kids will learn about stop signs, crosswalks, approaching corners as well as being considerate around other bikers and pedestrians. 

The program will include helmet fittings, helmet giveaways, a bicycle skills course and bike safety checks. 

If you would like to volunteer, please email KentBikeRodeo@gmail.com.

??Saturday May 17 
⏰10 a.m. - 1 p.m. 
??Kent YMCA 



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 ]*







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.




green kent man

Registration is 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.

*Join us at Clark Lake Park on April 19 for Earth Day! 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 ]*




corn days run [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/events/kent-cornucopia-days-5k?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

*Registration for the 2025 Kent Cornucopia Days 5k is now open!*

This year's race will be held Saturday, July 12.

Race will start and end at Three Friends Fishing Hole.

*Sign up to join us out on the course and have some fun with family and friends!*Shirt order deadline is June 13. Don’t miss out! * [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/events/kent-cornucopia-days-5k?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] *

Participants age 60 and over run for FREE courtesy of Long Painting (shirt not included)!






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 ]

Josh, Tracy and Kyle are back for a brand new episode of KentNow! 

The team talked with Maria Tizoc, Race and Equity Coordinator, and Erik Preston, Traffic Engineer and staff liaison for the Kent Bicycle Advisory Board about how you can get involved. 

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/3dbe081?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=es&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




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*Перевод на русский язык* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3dbe081?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=ru&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




*中文翻译* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3dbe081?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=zh-CN&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




*日本語で * [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3dbe081?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=ja&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]






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*Lagu turjumay af-soomaali* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3dbe081?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=so&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]




*Переклад на українську мову* [ https://content-govdelivery-com.translate.goog/accounts/WAKENT/bulletins/3dbe081?_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_sl=en&_x_tr_tl=uk&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]








 

City of Kent, Washington

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  • [Registrant]City of Kent
  • [Language]日本語
  • [Location]Kent, WA
  • Posted : 2025/04/18
  • Published : 2025/04/18
  • Changed : 2025/04/18
  • Total View : 80 persons
Web Access No.2708835