Redmond Neighborhood Blog

UPDATED, 10/21: Redmond Council Unanimously Passes Resolution Opposing Initiative No. 638

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 07:00:48 +0000

Councilmember Jessica Forsythe authored Resolution No. 1634 Opposing Initiative No. 638, relating to Participation in Athletics at K-12 Schools.

Initiative Measure No. 638 concerns participation in athletics at K-12 schools. This measure would prohibit students it defines as “biologically male” from competing in certain school athletic activities intended for female students only. It would require verification of biological sex by students’ healthcare providers. Should this measure be enacted into law? Yes[ ] No [ ]

Council President Melissa Stuart said the process for placing Forsythe's resolution on the agenda was outside "Council norms" and recommended study to prepare for future initiatives.

Should our city government officials tell us how to vote?

Public reach of the resolution was small. Only 7 citizens gave testimony and all were in favor of Forsythe's resolution to oppose Initiative No. 638. No citizens spoke against it. Ms. Forsythe is running against Amy Walen for seat No. 2 in the 48th Legislative District.

The resolution was passed unanimously with focus on the transgender community, city values of inclusion, and privacy.

YouTube of the resolution discussion starts at 2:58:30 https://www.youtube.com/live/YsJtfph7eYE?si=9LWhQU8AH1-7B-tB

-- Bob Yoder, 10/20/26 , opinion. Source: Council Agenda 10/20 page 7.

Lodging Tax May Fund Space and Marathon Events

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 05:56:40 +0000

Seattle Space Week is expanding to add Redmond as a host city in 2027.

A point-to-point marathon from Marymoor Park to Gas Works Park on Sunday, April 18th, 2027.

The lodging tax on hotels funds events to attract visitors to Redmond
credit: Experience Redmond

Funding for the tourism matching grants comes from the 1% lodging tax on Redmond hotels and motels, collected through the Lodging Tax Tourism Fund.

The purpose of the Lodging Tax Fund is to increase tourism in Redmond by attracting visitors from more than 50 miles away, particularly overnight visitors who stay in Redmond hotels. The LTAC consists of 7 members, including an equal number of hoteliers and members representing interests that might be funded by the tax. A Councilmember, currently Councilmember Vanessa Kritzer, serves as the committee chair.

The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) voted and recommends the 2027 Tourism matching grants of $171,500 and City Community Events and Cultural Arts Program allocations of $150,000, for a total of $321,500.

The LTAC recommends that the City Council approve funding for 19 of the 20 external applications totaling $171,500. The LTAC also recommends fully funding the City Community Events (Redmond Lights, Derby Days Cltural Arts) at the budgeted amount of $150,000.

2027 Applications can be found here: https://www.redmond.gov/DocumentCenter/Index/1411 Two exciting NEW EVENTS are proposed for funding.

Seattle Space Week (NEW EVENT): Seattle Space Week is expanding to add Redmond as a host city in 2027. Space Northwest will anchor the Week in Redmond with the Seattle Space Week Kickoff, the Space Northwest Symposium, and Redmond Space District facility tours. Location: Redmond Hotel Location TBD

Washington State Marathon (NEW EVENT): A point-to-point marathon from Marymoor Park to Gas Works Park on Sunday, April 18th, 2027. This will be a USATF Certified Marathon and runners will be able to use this event to qualify for the 7 Major Marathons or the Olympic Trials. Location: Hotel Location TB

-- Bob Yoder, Source: Council business meeting agenda, 10/20/26

VOTE EARLY!

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 03:16:29 +0000

No Kings Vote Early

Lots of fun, and very rewarding! Over 75 waved signs!

This is not a protest -- this is a non-partisan Get Out the Early Vote event. Next "commuter" sign wavings:

Tuesday, 10/20: 4:30-5:30 near Redmond library

Saturday, 10/24: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. near Redmond library

Tuesday10/27: 4:30-5:30: 4:30-5:30 near Redmond library

Ann: Organizer

Photo: John Reinke

Dunn Issues Statement Regarding $17 million Loss At KCRHA

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 02:45:56 +0000

Redmond Mayor Angela Birney was once on the KCRHA Governing Board representing Sound Cities Association.

Dunn issues statement following report identifying nearly $17 million unrecoverable balance at King County Regional Housing Authority (KCRHA) for the homeless.

King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn issued the following statement Thursday after an independent financial report found that the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) faces an estimated $17 million unrecoverable balance. Work on the report, produced by an independent firm, began in July as part of a 3-part stabilization effort announced by the King County Executive and Seattle Mayor. This comes after Dunn raised concerns about the proposed regional homelessness governance model in 2019 and wrote a 2023 Seattle Times Op-Ed calling for King County to end its participation in KCRHA:

“Once again, King County residents will be asked to foot the bill to cover for bureaucratic and financial mismanagement at KCRHA. Amidst the agency’s repeated administrative mistakes, we shouldn't forget that our region’s homelessness policies have failed the most vulnerable among us.

“If we want to truly reduce homelessness and help those on our streets who desperately need assistance, rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic isn’t enough. We must reverse our failed policies, restore accountability to taxpayer spending, and end the failed experiment that is KCRHA.”

Reservoir Park Sport Court Opens

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sat, 17 Oct 2026 04:43:42 +0000

One of the three tennis courts are lined for two pickleball courts. However, pickleball nets are not installed. You have to bring your own. Amazon has a selection.

In October, 2025 a city worker said he's been bombarded by people asking why the sports court would cost $1.8 million and takes so long to build. According to the supervisor, a potable water reservoir of 3,100 gallons rests under the courts. The lid was 50 years old, deteriorated and had to be replaced, not restored. That costs money. Now mid-October, 2026 and Sport Court is open. -- Yoder, Photos at redmond.gov

Project Overview

City of Redmond press release:
The Reservoir Park Sport Court sits on top of a 4-million gallon drinking water reservoir – both the tank and the sport court were built 50 years ago, in 1975.
The buried tank is approximately 160 feet in diameter and about 28 feet deep.
In 2023, a structural condition assessment was performed on the tank,
and it was found to be in very good condition except for the lid.
To extend the useful life of the tank and prepare for the new sports court,
this project will:
Remove the existing surface.
Inspect the tank concrete leveling surface.
Repair any defects and joints.
Install new site drainage.
Apply a structural waterproofing coating to the entire surface prior to placement of the new sport court surface.
Replace the sport court
The new courts will match the profile of the existing original courts and include markings for tennis, pickleball, and basketball. The project also includes new fencing and noise barriers, new sidewalk, curb ramps, an ADA parking stall, and restriping the parking area.
All trees on the site will be preserved. An arborist will monitor work to provide direction on protecting the trees.
Reservior Park Sport Court is Open - 3 tennis courts, one basketball hoop, two pickleball courts lined in yellow on one tennis court for play. Porta-potty and water fountain on site.

Mayor Birney Introduces Preliminary Biennial Budget

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 19:55:29 +0000

Mayor Angela Birney / redmond.gov

REDMOND, WA – On Tuesday, Oct. 6, Mayor Angela Birney introduced the City of Redmond’s preliminary 2027 - 2028 biennial budget at City Council’s regular business meeting. Over the next several weeks, Council will review and discuss the draft budget ahead of the final budget adoption, which is anticipated for Tuesday, Nov. 10. 

Mayor Birney provided an introduction and an overview of the budget in a letter and an executive summary. The full budget can be viewed at redmond.gov/Budget. Some highlights of the preliminary 2027 - 2028 biennial budget include:

Housing and Human Services funding to address community needs, including a Housing Navigator, affordable housing investments, and severe weather services.
Public safety investments to support core operational capacity, emergency preparedness, and operational readiness.
Rebuilding the City’s Teen Center and ensuring the community’s vision is fully reflected in the new building.
Redeveloping the City’s Maintenance and Operations Center.
Rebuilding Fire Station 11.
Protecting the environment by advancing the City's sustainability and climate resilience work.
Funding for the RedLink program, a safe route to school action plan, and a transportation network wayfinding plan.
Creating a new city department that will focus on getting permits approved faster and enhancing the City’s customer service standards.

The City continues to seek community feedback on the preliminary 2027 - 2028 biennial budget and will host two additional public hearings at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 20, and Monday, Nov. 2. Public comments related to each budget hearing can be submitted by email to budget@redmond.gov.

Portion of Sammamish River Trail Closed Starting October 13

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Fri, 09 Oct 2026 04:24:33 +0000

The Sammamish River Trail in Redmond runs North transitioning into the 19 mile Burke-Gilman Trail in Bothell then into the heart of University of Washington campus.

Credit/ King County

Starting Tuesday, October 13, 2026, a section of the Sammamish River Trail will be fully closed for construction from the North Shore Parking Lot at NE 145th Street south to NE 143rd Street.

Heavy equipment will occupy the full width of the trail. Trail users will not be able to pass through the work area during the closure.

The closure is expected to last a few hours, but work may take longer and could continue over multiple days. The trail will reopen as soon as possible and at the end of each workday if additional work is needed.

Please follow posted closure signs. Thank you for your patience as we complete this work.

Questions? Contact parksinfo@kingcounty.gov or (206) 477-4527.

King County Councilmember Dunn Issues Statement Following Passage of a New Tax

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 07 Oct 2026 01:55:54 +0000

King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn/ credit King County

Dunn issues statement following Council passage of new tax

King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn issued the following statement Tuesday after the King County Council passed a sales tax increase without requesting approval from voters. The tax does not have a defined spending plan but is expected to fund youth homelessness services through the Department of Community and Human Services. Its passage comes on the same day as the appointment of a new Inspector General, who is being hired following an Ombuds investigation that revealed waste, fraud, or abuse likely occurred across other DCHS youth-oriented programs.

“Families Across King County are being squeezed by the high costs of housing, groceries, and fuel. At the same time, the county has had to take repeated steps to address waste and fraud in its own spending. The difficult truth is that raising taxes will not make life more affordable. Before asking King County families to once again pay more, we ought to get our own house in order.”

-- King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn

Dean Weidner, Gives EvergreenHealth Largest Gift In History

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 18:35:26 +0000

Dean Weidner, EvergreenHealth longtime philantropist

Dean Weidner was a patient at EvergreenHealth when CEO Ettore Palazzo stopped by his room. Weidner, a longtime philanthropist at the hospital, asked him a simple question: "What's the biggest challenge EvergreenHealth will face in the next 20 years?"

Palazzo’s response was: "Growing. Having the space to care for a community that's growing right alongside us."

That conversation led Weidner to give $100 million to EvergreenHealth, the largest gift in the community-owned hospital's history. The gift will fund a new Patient Tower, with construction beginning in 2027, expanding the hospital's capacity to serve the community for generations to come.

This morning, EvergreenHealth announced Weidner's gift.

Dean and Ana Weidner were dedicated to the health and welfare of their community. Dean was a successful business leader in the multifamily housing industry. Ana devoted much of her life to philanthropy, with a particular passion for wildlife conservation and animal welfare. They have been actively involved in improving care and supporting key projects at EvergreenHealth since 2019. Ana Weidner passed away in 2024, and Dean Weidner passed away in early 2026.

-- Press release, 9/28/2026

Bob Yoder, Founder of Redmond Neighborhood Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sat, 26 Sep 2026 19:55:41 +0000

Bob Yoder / credit EvergreenHealth

Bob Yoder is a long-time resident, community advocate, and the founder of the hyper-local Redmond Neighborhood Blog. [1, 2, 3]

Background: He has lived on Education Hill in Redmond, Washington, for over 40 years after moving from Arizona. Professionally, he worked in medical products sales and marketing. [1, 2]

Community Advocacy: He started the Redmond Neighborhood Blog in 2007 to track local environmental issues like industrial pollution in Evans Creek and to cover city council meetings, local events, and public affairs. [1, 2, 3]

Recognition: He received EvergreenHealth's 2024 Community Service Award for his leadership and advocacy regarding local mental health care and behavioral health awareness. [1]

Source: AI, 9/26/2026

UPDATED: WALK FOR EPILEPSY October 3

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 00:46:42 +0000

The Walk was a success! ~ $70,000 was raised for the Epilepsy Foundation; over 300 participated in the park walk sharing their stories. Next year the event will be held in Spokane, as well! 8 friends and family participated in my daughter's Spokane virtual walk. They raised $1,800! Brooks was carried right along with them!

Walk a mile in the park to advocate for epilespy care. Bring your friends! Pam, I and Zo are on the "Brooks the Brave" team. Brooks is my 2-year old grandchild struggling with medication-resistent seizures requiring brain surgery and lengthy rehabilitation. His parents are amazing, loving caregivers dedicated to his rehabilitation! Brooks is doing so much better!

Sign up or get more info through the Seattle Walk for Epilepsy Event Page.

Schedule

9:30 AM | Arrive and get checked in or get registered and ready to walk! Explore our partner tents, enjoy light refreshments and participate in our family-friendly activities.
9:55 AM | Opening Remarks: Hear from community partners, celebrate our top fundraisers, learn about our mission and recognize our loved ones affected by epilepsy and seizures.
10 AM | Walk with your team! The Walk course is 1 mile long. Feel free to walk as many times as you would like!
12 PM | Event Ends / food truck/ speakers

Questions? Email Bob Yoder: redmondblog@gmail.com

Dr. Ettore Palazzo, Our Exceptional Puget Sound Executive

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:58:07 +0000

The Future of Community Healthcare, by Dr. Palazzo (video)

EvergreenHealth CEO Dr. Ettore Palazzo (ai)

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of EvergreenHealth is Dr. Ettore Palazzo, MD, FACP. He also serves as the Superintendent of King County Public Hospital District No. 2. Monroe Hospital [1, 2]

About Dr. Ettore Palazzo

Dr. Palazzo is a long-tenured physician and healthcare executive who transitioned from direct patient care to executive leadership within the EvergreenHealth system.

Appointment as CEO: He took over as CEO on December 10, 2023, succeeding the retiring CEO, Jeff Tomlin. [1]
Long Career at EvergreenHealth: Dr. Palazzo has been part of the EvergreenHealth medical staff for over two decades, having originally joined the hospital system in 2003 as an internal medicine hospitalist. [1, 2]
Previous Leadership Roles: Before steping into the CEO role, he accumulated extensive administrative experience across several key leadership positions in the organization, including:
- Chief Medical and Quality Officer (where he oversaw clinical quality, patient safety, risk management, and infection control during the pandemic)
- Managing Physician of the Internal Medicine Hospitalist Service
- Information Technology Medical Director of Inpatient Services
- Quality Medical Director [1, 2, 3, 4]
Education & Credentials: He earned his medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine and holds a Fellowship from the American College of Physicians (FACP). [1, 2]
Community & Board Involvement: Beyond his work at EvergreenHealth, he serves on the boards of the Washington State Hospital Association and the Kirkland Chamber of Commerce. He has also been a vocal advocate for community health initiatives, backing voter-approved property tax increases to expand local primary care, urgent care, and behavioral health infrastructure. [1]

Strategic Focus: As a leader, Dr. Palazzo frequently speaks on modernizing healthcare, including the integration of AI in healthcare, expanding services for seniors, and sustaining community-funded health programs. [1, 2]

EvergreenHealth Commissioners Presents Mike Hallman With Community Service Award

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 20:43:06 +0000

(front row l-r) Commission Chair Virgil Synder, TOM HALLMAN, CEO Etorre Palazzo

(back row l-r) Commissioners Charles Pilcher, Nancy Stewart, Suzane Greathouse, Norman Seabrooks, Robin Campbell, Secretary Jeff Cashman

EvergreenHealth Commissioners Presents Mike Hallman with Community Service Award.

The Board’s resolution honors Mike Hallman for his partnership and contributions over several decades to advance the community’s health and wellness

KIRKLAND, WA — EvergreenHealth’s Board of Commissioners has recognized Mike Hallman with the 2025 Community Service Award in honor of his longstanding partnership, philanthropy and care for the health of our community.

For more than 30 years, Hallman and his late wife, Mary Kay Hallman, have shown immense dedication and championed the same values that guide EvergreenHealth. Their generosity and partnership have not only strengthened care across EvergreenHealth but has also supported long-term investments in clinical excellence, behavioral health access and advanced care.

Hallman’s support for the Clinical Excellence Fund helped EvergreenHealth establish a simulation lab and education center where nurses and clinicians can advance their skills and safely practice a variety of important clinical scenarios. They also helped EvergreenHealth purchase a 3T MRI machine, which is significantly more advanced than the standard 1.5T MRI machine.

“I am honored to receive this award,” said Hallman. “We have been very proud to support our community and EvergreenHealth, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to support the health and wellness of the Puget Sound region.”

Hallman also helped establish EvergreenHealth’s first Behavioral Health clinic integrated into Primary Care, driven by his belief that the community deserves access to mental health services before a crisis occurs.

“Mike is an exceptional member of the Kirkland community as well as the entire Puget Sound region,” said EvergreenHealth Board of Commissioners Chair Virgil Snyder. “His generosity over the last three decades has helped EvergreenHealth advance our mission and our commitment to our community. This award is a token of our immense thanks to Mike for his thoughtful partnership and contributions to EvergreenHealth.”

The award was presented during the August 18 Board of Commissioners meeting and is the second of two 2025 Community Service Awards that have been presented by the Board this year. The first award was presented to Dr. Francis X. Riedo in July.

Since 1998, the Community Service Award has been presented to community members and groups who make a profound impact on enhancing the health of the Eastside and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to our most important values: compassion, respect, excellence, collaboration and accountability. See a list of past recipients here.

###

About EvergreenHealth   

EvergreenHealth is a community-owned health care hospital system serving more than one million residents in King and Snohomish counties. Since 1972, EvergreenHealth has evolved alongside the Eastside community into a two-hospital health system with a network of primary care practices, urgent care centers, specialty clinics, extensive home care and hospice services, and 24/7 emergency care in Kirkland, Monroe and Redmond. As a public hospital district, the health system’s purpose is to enrich the health and wellness of everyone in the community by providing equal access to high-quality, high-value care, partnering with local organizations to perform outreach and offering health education to address our community’s needs now and for generations to come. The hospital system is named one of Healthgrades America’s 50 Best™ Hospitals and holds a 5-Star Overall Rating from the Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services (CMS). Learn more at www.evergreenhealth.com.

Update

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 19:46:14 +0000

There's been illness in my family in Spokane. I hope to be writing regularly soon. Bob

Gum Rockrose Evergreen

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sat, 27 Jun 2026 16:12:35 +0000

Gum Rockrose evergreen blossom attracts honeybee with red spots. Growing in city landscaped bedding by the Senior Center.

photo by John Reinke

6/21/2026

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 13 May 2026 22:36:33 +0000

Trillium

Our native backyard wildflower

photo/bob yoder

early Spring

Light Rail Ridership to Redmond Increased Three-fold

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:33:11 +0000

What they're saying:

Mayor Angela Birney said the expansion allowing riders to travel across Lake Washington is already changing how people move through the region. She says ridership in town has increased three-fold since the new line opened.

Mayor Birney believes the changes reflect broader growth in the city.

"We’ve created a lot of dense housing, opportunities for business that just is different from the Redmond of old," said Birney. "We’re really making it a community where people can live and come visit, and really it’s become a place versus before where it wasn’t much to think about."

For a safety report the entire article click on this link click on this Fox13 link: https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/redmond-wa-surge-riders-crosslake-connection

Fox 13 article by Lauren Donovan, 4/9/2026

Opinion: Contaminated Drinking Water Efforts Need Update

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:00:06 +0000

Anderson Park's two wells are contaminated with PFAS "forever chemical." So far, the City hasn't done any noticeable work to remediate the contamination. This is a photo I took years ago - by

PFAS contaminated of Redmond’s drinking water. I’ve submitted written questions to City staff (through Redmond’s online Request for Service) and wish to summarize them here.

1. Has the City conducted a formal investigation to identify the source of PFOS and PFBS detections at Wells 1 and 2, given that Redmond’s groundwater monitoring program (early warning system) is committed to source identification?

2. During the two years following the August 2013 All Wood Recycling fire, was PFAS testing done at any sentinel monitoring wells between the All Wood Recycling site (currently DTG Recycle) and Redmond’s supply wells?

3. Has the City obtained any PFAS soil or groundwater testing at the Evans Creek Relocation Project site, which is partially within the DTG site and sits upgradient of the supply wells?

4. Has the City contacted the Department of Ecology, King County, or DTG Recycle to request PFAS testing of that site and adjacent soils?

5. The City's monitoring data shows a slowly rising PFOS trend at Wells 1 and 2, with emerging detections at other wells. What is the operational response to a contamination problem that is worsening rather than stabilizing?

6. And what is the projected timeline for wellhead treatment design, permitting, and construction at Wells 1 & 2? What interim public health protections are in place right now?

These questions deserve prompt, specific answers.

-- David Morton, PhD

Larry Springer Announces He Will Not Seek Re-Election

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:26:00 +0000

STATE REPRESENTATIVE LARRY SPRINGER ANNOUNCES HE WILL NOT SEEK RE-ELECTION IN 2026

45th District Democrat and Deputy Majority Leader Reflects on Three Decades of Service to Kirkland and Washington State

KIRKLAND, WA — State Representative Larry Springer (D-Kirkland) today announced that he will not seek reelection to the Washington House of Representatives, bringing to a close a distinguished public service career spanning more than three decades in the 45th Legislative District, and City of Kirkland.

"It has been the honor of my life to serve the people of Kirkland and the 45th District," said Springer. "When I was first elected to the legislature in 2004, I made a promise to work hard, listen closely, and never stop fighting for the families and small businesses that make our communities strong. I am proud of what I have accomplished over these many years, and grateful for the partnerships and friendships made along the way."

After a decade in office, Springer was elected by his Democratic colleagues to serve as Deputy Majority Leader in 2014, and has served in that role for over ten years, among the longest to serve in this important leadership position. Before his legislative career, Springer served as Mayor of Kirkland from 2000 to 2003 and on the Kirkland City Council from 1994 to 2004. A former schoolteacher and small business owner, he and his wife Penny Sweet operated The Grape Choice wine shop in Kirkland for over 40 years, Springer brought a pragmatic, community-centered perspective to every session in Olympia.

“I’m proud of the approach I brought to Olympia,” said Springer. “I saw my role as being a voice for both cooperation and common sense. I am grateful that my colleagues trusted me to do both from a leadership position, helping shape legislation and always doing so with positive outcomes in mind, not political posturing.”

Among his proudest achievements, Springer cited the passage of HB1168 in 2021, landmark wildfire resilience legislation that directed $500 million toward making Washington more resistant to catastrophic wildfire. He also pointed to his years of work on affordable housing, public safety, early childhood education, healthcare access, and firearm safety as defining causes of his tenure.

"Tough problems take time and perseverance," Springer said. "I've never believed in quick fixes or political theater. The work that matters, funding our schools, protecting reproductive rights, addressing the affordable housing crisis, keeping our communities safe, requires showing up session after session and doing the unglamorous work of governing. I am proud of what we have built together."

Springer expressed deep gratitude to his constituents, colleagues, and Legislative Aides present and past for their partnership and support over the years.

“One of my proudest accomplishments is helping mentor, and learning from, an outstanding group of legislative aides over more than two decades,” said Springer. “These incredible leaders have gone on to serve in elected office, manage government departments, advocate for issues and policies, and succeed in business. I am grateful for all of their friendship and support as I’ve made this difficult decision.”

Representative Springer will continue to serve out the remainder of his current term, which ends in January 2027.

Cherry Trees

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 01:09:00 +0000

One of the things that make Redmond special this time of year are the abundance of blooming cherry trees. John Reinke captured this tree just north of the senior center. The downtown park cherry / plum tree petals have mostly fallen.

-- Spring, 2026

OPINION: Three Council Members Not Part Of Decision To Demolish Old Firehouse

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:20:12 +0000

Vivek Prakriya, Menka Soni, Sayna Parsi [middle of photo]

After re-reading the 470 page report from the council’s July study session (that extensively detailed suggestions for remediation for all questionable and possibly unsafe conditions) did council actually read it entirely? In the study session the majority of council members never made the effort or never asked the question of what it would take to keep this building open and safe.

One new councilmember, Sayna Parsi, was recently appointed. Two new members were recently elected (Menka Soni and Vivek Prakriya) Thus, three who had no part in the decision to demolish, with little knowledge, experience, and insight, will be entrusted to move this challenging building process forward.

The teen center is a limited use facility—opened maybe 20- hours a week. The $9 million price tag for the rebuilding scenario is inflated with expenditures that are not necessary or warranted such as EV charging station, water fountain with bottle filler, ADA shower, new kitchen cabinets and appliances. Coupled with the city’s track record with the community center’s escalation of costs from 30 million to almost 70 million, this reality is scary.

-- Honorable Former Mayor Rosemarie Ives

4/15/2026

Forensic Consultant Must Be Present During Old Firehouse Demolition

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:03:00 +0000

Rosemarie Ives, Founder of the OFH Teen Center

While listening to the Council’s last parks committee meeting on demolition of the Old Firehouse, council inquired about preservation efforts. There were several erroneous comments from staff but staff’s words are not binding. The demolition bid does not make mention of methodology to be used for a building that has historical and cultural significance—neither staff nor salvage companies have that expertise. So I have four requests:

1. That Council directs the mayor to separately contract with a forensic consultant to be present on site during all of the demolition.

2. That an interpretive display be prominently erected on site acknowledging the building’s storied history.

3. That the city contracts with an oral history expert to interview the former city clerk, former parks and teen center directors and Fire and police personnel.

4. Provide the Redmond Historical Society with a copy.

-- The Honorable Former Mayor Rosemarie Ives, 4/15/2026

cc: Mayor Birney

UPDATED: City Doubles Down On World Cup

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:40:00 +0000

The Mayor and Council are committing $2,144,838 towards the World Cup event in hopes to leverage economic growth within the City.

According to an April 14, 2026 Council agenda memo, the funding breakdown is, as follows:

Program Manager $177,780 (new hire)
Communications Specialist $153,289 (new hire)
Operating response staff plan $748,320,500
Event production $472,500
Marketing, Communications and Productions $220,000
Tourism Marketing $50,000

Council Member Vanessa Kritzer recommended following-up after the event to measure the benefits to our local economy from this significant expense.

-- Bob Yoder, 4/14/2026, updated 4/15

$1,267,396 Sidewalk Installation on 40th Street

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 05:23:00 +0000

This job was too large for Redmond's 5-person sidewalk crew.

Funded by "Transporation Benefit District (TBD)

City Council is presently working on their biennium budget. A $1,267,396 sidewalk project was presented by a Deputy Public Works Director under the budget category: "Vibrant and Connected." $239,000 of the funding is a "Excise Real Estate Tax" on large downtown construction projects.

The deputy said the project "replaces 2,000 linear feet of sidewalk that was severely damaged by tree root growth" and 13 non-compliant curb ramps will be replaced with ADA ramps Sidewalk on 40th Street will be replaced from Bell-Red Road to 156th Avenue.

Council Member Sayna Parsi asked if the old trees will be replaced with new sidewalk compliant trees. The deputy said he'd look into it. The project memo gave a "2024- 2025 time frame." so is it already completed? There were no photos of the sidewalk in the agenda memo. Council has to approve all projects over $300,000. Council did not state this project would be placed on the consent agenda for approval.

-- Bob Yoder, 4/12/26

Ride Redlink

noreply@blogger.com (Bob Yoder) — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 03:31:00 +0000

Ride RedLink https://ow.ly/zaj750YEBzt
With the new Crosslake Connection joining Redmond to Seattle and beyond, 2026 is a big year for public transportation. Last month, Redmond launched RedLink, a free, on-demand, all-electric ride service for community members to get around Redmond easily, affordably, and sustainably.

All you need to do is download the free Circuit App to your phone and create an account. When you’re ready, request a free ride and get picked up in minutes! Local micro-mobility resources like RedLink can help take you to local businesses, run errands, or get to your transit station on time without needing a personal car, all while supporting the Environmental Sustainability Action Plan’s Big Move 3: Accessible and Sustainable Transportation.

Next time you need to get somewhere on wheels, consider one of the many alternate modes of transportation Redmond offers. From RedLink to light rail, there are so many possibilities!

Ride RedLink https://ow.ly/zaj750YEBztRide Circuit App
-- redmond.gov