びびなび : シアトル : (アメリカ合衆国) Seattle

Mayor Ralph's Weekly Update





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26 header




January 9, 2026 






2026 Kent City Council
swearing in [ https://kentwa.iqm2.com/citizens/default.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Happy Friday, Kent. 

Tuesday night, I had the honor of being sworn in for another four-year term as your mayor, alongside newly elected Councilmember Sharn Shoker, returning Councilmember Toni Troutner, and Council President Satwinder Kaur, who was again selected by her colleagues to continue serving in that role.

Judge Franz joined us for the ceremony, and it was wonderful to celebrate the occasion with family, friends, and community members at a reception before the meeting. *Click here if you would like to see pictures from the reception and ceremony. [ https://www.facebook.com/CityofKent?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

I’m grateful for the trust placed in each of us, and looking forward to the work ahead in 2026. We have a strong team, a clear sense of purpose, and a shared commitment to continuing the progress we’re making for Kent. 

Have a great weekend!

Dana Ralph, Kent Mayor






Weekly Roundup

dog stop [ https://thedogstop.com/grand-opening-kent-wa/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Welcome Dog Stop to Kent!

Dog Stop is a new Kent business located at 405 Washington Ave N. It is a full-service Dog care facility including doggy daycare, grooming and boarding.

Along with the Kent Chamber and Council President Kaur, we cut the ribbon and officially welcomed them to Kent.





chicken [ https://restaurants.elpolloloco.com/wa/kent/10120-se-256th-st?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Earlier this week, we celebrated the official grand opening of El Pollo Loco at 10120 SE 256th St. 

We are thrilled to welcome them to Kent!

The menu looks fantastic. I can personally recommend the tortilla soup - perfect for a stormy day.





thunderbirds

Catch the action on January 16 when the T-Birds take on the Moose Jaw Warriors at 7:05 p.m. at accesso ShoWare Center!

*You can get more information on Thunderbirds games and news online here. [ https://tickets.seattlethunderbirds.com/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*





kc solid waste [ https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/dnrp/waste-services/garbage-recycling-compost/about?fbclid=IwY2xjawPM0J1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE1OWkwODNNeUd1ZTNGVHEwc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHjKeshOCVtHZvWAX5pqM0-jxs8w8KSFj_c6aMvrWI26F2GEes_zAw965H4zl_aem_r7rhXkKiM8hA78aST3HD8g&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

King County Solid Waste is accepting flood debris at all three of their transfer stations - Shoreline, Bow Lake, and Enumclaw for free on Saturdays and Sundays through January 11, 2026.







Kent City Council

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

*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 ]*

26 cow 1 [ https://kentwa.iqm2.com/citizens/default.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]26 council 1 [ https://kentwa.iqm2.com/citizens/default.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]


cervical cancer

January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about prevention, early detection, and the importance of regular screenings to help save lives.

At last night’s Kent City Council meeting, Mayor Ralph presented a proclamation to Kent resident and cervical cancer survivor Anna Ogo.

To learn more about cervical health resources and prevention, visit: bit.ly/4pp7ew3 [ http://bit.ly/4pp7ew3?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]





*The Neighborhood Matching Grant Program application is now open! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/neighborhood-program/neighborhood-grant-program?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

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.

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





Drinks in the Driveway [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/neighborhood-program/drinks-in-the-driveway?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

We are now booking Spring and Summer dates for Drinks in the Driveway!

Our program brings city leaders to neighborhood councils/associations to discuss resident issues.

*If you want to get on the list, sign up here! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/neighborhood-program/drinks-in-the-driveway?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*





Kent 101

kent 101 [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/kent-101?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Kent 101 is a free program that offers residents the opportunity to better understand how local government works through civics classes, interactive activities and tours. Participants will receive a certificate of completion.

It covers the roles and work of city leadership, staff and departments and more! This program is perfect for:


* High school students looking for career inspiration.
* College students who need more experience before joining the work force
* Working adults who want to have a stronger understanding about government work.
* Retirees looking to be more involved in their community.

The Spring 2026 Session will be February 19, 2026 - April 16, 2026, with classes every Thursday at Kent City Hall Chambers from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

*Applications are now being accepted for the Spring 2026 session that starts February 19! The deadline to apply is February 15, 2026. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/kent-101?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



winter weather

If you haven't yet, be sure to check out the city's Winter Weather Plan, which has tips and best practices for preparing for winter weather!

The guide explains the city’s capabilities and strategies for maintaining roadways, communication and public safety during rain, snow and ice.

It also has our anti-icing and plowing routes as well as details on our roadway response priorities during weather events. Check it out at *KentWA.gov/Winter. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/winter-weather-plan?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*





Winter Parks Guide

winter guide [ https://wakentweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/splash.html?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Registration for the 2025-2026 Winter season is open. In case you didn’t receive a guide at home, copies are available at the Kent Commons Community Center and Kent Senior Activity Center, or you can view our digital guide *online [ https://online.flipbuilder.com/ixcy/eirq/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*!

From NEW Youth & Teen programs to outdoor adventures for adults age 50+ and everything in between, there is something for everyone in the family. Our Parks team has curated some truly amazing programs for you and your families this season that you won’t want to miss.

Register online at *MyKentParks.com/Register [ mykentparks.com/register ]*, in person at the Kent Commons and Senior Center, over the phone, or via mail/fax. If you have questions, call the Kent Commons at 253-856-5100 or the Senior Center at 253-856-5150.

Spotlight Series

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

We have curated another packed line-up of exceptional entertainment, and the performances so far have been incredible. The fun continues on Friday, January 30 with International Guitar Night: The World on a String; there are only a few tickets left - don't miss out!

Tickets: $35 general, $32 senior, $25 youth

For tickets, and to view the full 2025-2026 Spotlight Series line-up, visited us online: *KentWA.gov/SpotlightSeries [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/arts/spotlight-series?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*.






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

Indoor Park is held Tuesday-Thursday mornings at the Kent Commons Community Center from 9:30-11am.

No registration required! Just stop by and pay the drop-in fee ($2 for the first child and $1 for each additional child). Come play! For questions or more information, call the Kent Commons Community Center at 253-856-5100.



pw winterfest

The first annual Kent Parks Family Night Out is Friday, January 23!

Pack up your crew and roll by the Kent Commons Community Center from 5-8pm for a FREE night of family fun.

Explore the building, sample a variety of Kent Parks programs, play carnival-style games, meet your Kent Parks team and instructors, and more!

No registration is required. Call the Kent Commons Community Center at 253-856-5100 with any questions.




showalk [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/programs-activities/adult-fitness?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

ShoWalk is back!

Learn more about ShoWalk and check out program dates online at MyKentParks.com.

*We need ShoWalk volunteers! *Are you interested in joining us? Email Program Coordinator Rachel Gilbert at *RGilbert@kentwa.gov* to get involved!

*Learn more and check out program dates online! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/kent-parks/programs-activities/adult-fitness?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*






Criminal Justice Training Graduates

kent pd

Two new Kent Police Officers, Officer M. Coury and Officer N. Heath, recently graduated from the Criminal Justice Training Commission and have now begun their field training here in Kent.

Our hiring standards are high, and both of these new officers bring strong experience, dedication, and a deep commitment to public service.

Officer Coury is a longtime South King County resident with a background in technical team leadership and strong community ties. Officer Heath is an Army veteran and former Sergeant with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, who later transitioned into management before joining KPD.

You can watch a short clip from the graduation ceremony here:
https://x.com/i/status/2001776472122626108 [ https://x.com/i/status/2001776472122626108?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]



game of life

Kent students led with kindness at the Game of Life event held in December. Middle and high school students from across our community spent the day learning how to care for themselves and others through sessions on leadership, mental health, drug and alcohol prevention, safe driving, volunteer and internship opportunities, and more.

The Kent Police Student Board has a long history of service and leadership in our community, and they did an outstanding job organizing and hosting this event.

If you have a student in grades 7–12 who is interested in joining the board, please contact Stacy Judd at sjudd@kentwa.gov.





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

We all know how quickly pets can escape through an open door or gate no matter how hard we try to keep them safe. 

A *RASKC pet license* [ https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/executive-services/animals-pets-pests/regional-animal-services/pet-licenses?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] helps by providing identification protecting pets 24/7 should they get lost.  It also helps fund our pet adoption center and field services in your community. 







food waste [ https://ecology.wa.gov/waste-toxics/reducing-recycling-waste/organics-and-food-waste/sustainable-food-center/food-waste-reduction?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

We’re working to cut food waste in half by 2030.

Each year, Washington wastes half a million tons of edible food with the largest amount wasted around the holidays.

The time is right to make a change! It’s easy to get inspired to help reduce waste. Be part of the solution with simple tips to save both food and money.

Learn more about what you can do to reduce food waste and save money this holiday season. Visit the Use Food Well website at www.usefoodwell.org [ http://www.usefoodwell.org?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ].







Boards and Commissions





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

*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.



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

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 and apply to be on the board.



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

*Applications are being accepted for the city's Disability and Retirement Board. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

The City of Kent Disability Retirement Board reviews and approves all medical and disability claims made by police officers and firefighters who are members of the LEOFF1 Retirement System.

If you have any questions regarding the board, please contact anemes@kentwa.gov






kentnow [ https://open.spotify.com/show/36b7AAD35koKHGn8d4FTIm?si=93750a498c6645d2&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

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

New episodes every 2 weeks! 

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 ]*



kent works app [ https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?hl=en-US&id=gov.kentwa.seeclickfix&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

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

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!






Translations A/文





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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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