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




May 9, 2025






mothers day

Happy Friday, Kent!

Before we dive into this week's updates, I want to wish all the moms, bonus moms and mother figures out there a Happy Mother's Day weekend!

As a mother of two, I know that our work is cut out for us! And feeling valued by those around us through acts of love and appreciation is so important. 

Those small acts of kindness you can show and share with a mom who's important in your life can brighten their day. 

If you're looking for a nice spot to go walking, biking, or just hang out with mom, *check out one of our parks*! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/parks-places/parks-trails?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] We have so many great and unique parks, playfields and trails all around Kent. 

I have a lot of great updates and fun things to share with you this week. Hope you enjoy and have a fantastic weekend!

Dana Ralph, Kent Mayor






Weekly Roundup

kent commons

On Sunday, we commemorated the Grand Re-Opening of the Kent Commons Community Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony and free community event that activated all of the amazing new spaces inside the Kent Commons.

Hundreds of you came to join in on the festivities! It was a great way to celebrate the culmination of the building’s refresh.  





bike ever month

At Tuesday night's Kent city council meeting, I recognized  Bike Everywhere Month, which recognizes bicycling as a popular and economical mode of transport, supported by the city, and was accepted by KBAB Chair Wendy Graves and Julie Dunn.





corrections week

Also, on Tuesday night, I presented Commander Michael Armstrong with the proclamation for National Corrections Officers Week (May 1-7), which recognizes corrections officers for their service and dedication as law enforcement professionals.





police week

The final proclamation of Tuesday night's city council meeting was presented to Chief Padilla for National Police Week (May 11-17). This recognizes the Kent Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies for the hard work they do every day to keep our community safe.



Kent City Council

The Kent City Council held multiple public meetings this week. Check out the recap on this week's meetings below. 

updated CM

COW

*You can also see the full meeting agendas, minutes and livestream recordings here. [ https://kentwa.iqm2.com/citizens/default.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



green kent work party

Our next Green Kent is *tomorrow!* 

Volunteers will join Kent Parks staff at North Meridian Park from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. These volunteer conservation events are a great way to get more involved, connect with neighbors, and give back. And for students, they are a great way to earn valuable, hands-on volunteer hours! 

I cannot wait to see all that we accomplish this year through our Green Kent program with the support of our amazing Kent community. Registration is now open for all upcoming events! Sign up as a volunteer today online at *MyKentParks.com/GreenKent [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/volunteering/outdoor-conservation-events?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*.





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

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 





RISE

King County has been selected as one of five regions in the U.S. for Comcast RISE Grants. This means 100 small businesses in King County will receive over $3 million in grants for monetary, marketing, and technology support. Applications are open from May 1-31 at ComcastRISE.com [ http://www.comcastrise.com/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ], with winners announced in August.





park closed [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/public-works/design-construction/current-future-projects?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Just a reminder that Linda Heights Park is closed for construction on the Sewer Pump Station located at the park.

The pump station will be relocated closer to the roadway for maintenance access and updated to current standards.

While the City's Public Works team completes the project, the park will also be regraded, and a new pedestrian walkway will be added.

For more information, visit *KentWA.gov/Projects [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/public-works/design-construction/current-future-projects?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*





recode kent

ReCode Kent is an initiative to update city zoning code to improve the supply, types, affordability and quality of housing while streamlining permitting.

We're updating our development requirements in the Kent City Code and design standards to align with state mandates and implement the goals of the Kent Comprehensive Plan.

Learn more online at Engage.KentWA.gov/ReCodeHousing [ https://engage.kentwa.gov/ReCodeHousing?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZzVuMDRKWXFqMmFBS1M4OQEewnGiw5MzwvTqAdNt-E_PzVnpJEQWfYfF2MQgNr_g3eray_mYDZdbPeS63s4_aem_LJkGDaUVIvvI7pmAqTJW1Q&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ].





Employee of the Month
EOM May

Teddie joined the City of Kent in February 2023 as an IT Technical Support Specialist 2. Since day one, he's brought a positive, can-do attitude and a commitment to helping others that truly sets him apart.

Teddie leads IT training during new hire onboarding, continuously improving his presentations based on employee feedback. Whether he's solving a tech issue or assisting with a project, he’s always patient, professional, and ready to help—no matter how long it takes.

Known for his friendly approach and tech expertise, Teddie is a go-to team player who represents the IT department—and the City—as a whole—with excellence. He’s also active in city initiatives, committees, and events.

Teddie, thank you for everything you do. We’re proud to recognize you as May’s Employee of the Month!



ezee fiber

Construction has officially started on Ezee Fiber’s high-speed fiber network here in Kent!

As work continues in neighborhoods across the city, Ezee Fiber has launched an online hub to help residents stay informed. You’ll find answers to frequently asked questions, construction updates, and information about available services at *ezeefiber.com/kent.* [ https://ezeefiber.com/blog/kent-wa-construction-begins/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]





kitty hall

We are kicking off Paw-Fest weekend, where Kent City Hall becomes Kent Kitty Hall!

It's where all the cuddliest, cutest adoptable kittens and cats will be available for adoption thanks to Regional Animal Services of King County.

This is a purr-fect time, to find your furever friend! No kitten around!

?? Thursday, June 5
⌚ 1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
?? Kent City Hall 



PawFest 2025
pawfest

Join us and Regional Animal Services of King County at PawFest! Animal rescues will have sweet animals up for adoption and we'll have licensing help on-site. 

There will be a pet parade, best pet costume contest, pup cups, demonstrations from dog agility teams and dog trainers. 

?? Saturday, June 1
⌚11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
?? Kent Station



bike kent

It's Bike Everywhere Month!  This month, you'll find exciting events all over the region, including our annual Bike Rodeo and Bike Ride of the Month—all to encourage everyone to hop on their bikes and explore. Whether commuting to work, running errands, or taking a leisurely ride, every pedal stroke counts.





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!





police week

Next week is National Police Week. We want to thank the Kent Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies, for the sacrifices they make every day to keep our community safe. We appreciate them every day, but especially next week!





Drug Awareness Prevention Education

DAPE [ https://www.facebook.com/events/1612360989478298/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A%5B%5D%7D&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Have you ever wondered how to start the conversation with your kids about the dangers of drugs/alcohol? Unsure what signs and symptoms to look for if you are concerned about substance use? 

On Wednesday, May 28, the Kent Drug Free Coalition and the Kent Police Department is inviting parents and community members to attend this valuable education event focused on youth substance use prevention and mental health awareness.

?? Wednesday, May 28
⌚ 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
?? Kent Commons 

Topics covered include current trends, signs & symptoms, the important role parents play and how to talk to your kids.



hops n cop

A big thank you to everyone who came out for Hops & Cops Wednesday night at the Harp restaurant and bar. Great food, awesome atmosphere, and lots of excellent company.





dig [ https://digsafewashington.com/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Call before you dig!

Anytime you need to excavate for a home project, state law requires you to notify utility companies to avoid dangerous or costly damages.

Notify utilities of your intent to dig by calling 811 or by making an online request a few days before you plan to break ground. *call811.com [ https://call811.com/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

*DigSafeWA.org [ https://digsafewashington.com/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* is your online resources for digging safely in Washington.





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 ]*





Team Up 2 Clean Up

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

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 ]*



wastemobile

The King County Wastemobile will be cruising throughout King County most weekends until October, making it easy and safe for you to drop off household hazardous waste for free.

*You can see the full schedule on their website. [ https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/dnrp/waste-services/hazardous-waste-program/wastemobile?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 ]*





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.





Apply for Boards and Commissions

parks board

*The City of Kent is accepting applications for our Parks & Recreation Commission! * [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Multiple seats are available. Commissioners work with staff to provide input on planning efforts that influence the city’s parks system.

Things like planning, funding, rules, programs, and more. It’s a great way to get more involved with the Kent community.





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!





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.

*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 ]

In case you missed it, registration is now open for the 2025 Kent Cornucopia Days 5k!

This year's race will take place on Saturday, July 12 at Three Friends Fishing Hole.

Sign up to join us out on the course and have some fun with family and friends.

Participants age 60 and over run for FREE courtesy of Long Painting (shirt not included). Shirt order deadline is June 13!

Learn more about the race and register online today at *MyKentParks.com/CornucopiaDays5k [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/events/kent-cornucopia-days-5k?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*. 






RASKC [ https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/executive-services/animals-pets-pests/regional-animal-services?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

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!









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

Tracy called in the reserves since Josh M is on vacation, and Kyle was out sick!

So, Mark and Josh G from multimedia jump in to talk with Jason Fiorito from Pacific Raceways to talk about the upcoming season and all the new things you can expect to see this year at the track!

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  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/3df0c2b?_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/3df0c2b?_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/3df0c2b?_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/3df0c2b?_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/3df0c2b?_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/3df0c2b?_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/3df0c2b?_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/3df0c2b?_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/3df0c2b?_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

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

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