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Mayor's Update



December 20, 2024




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Merry Christmas, Kent!

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merry christmas

Merry Christmas Kent!

No matter how you choose to celebrate this festive season, I hope you and your loved ones have the opportunity to relax and cherish the joy you bring each other. 

I know many of you are traveling to celebrate the holidays this weekend, so please remember to stay safe!

If you're going to be in town, there are a few holiday events before Christmas. I've put them below!  

Have a fabulous weekend! 

Dana Ralph, Kent Mayor

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This is just a reminder that Kent City Hall, the Centennial Center, Kent Commons, the Senior Activity Center, and Kent Municipal Court will be closed on Wednesday in observance of Christmas Day.


closed on christmas

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2025-2026 Budget

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2025 2026 budget slide support programs

The 2025-2026 Biennial Budget funds the continuation of two co-responder programs that serve critical functions in Kent. Project Be Free provides real time, in-person services to victims of Domestic Violence and their families.

This program has had a profound effect on what resources officers can offer during domestic violence incidents. This budget contains $185K to continue this service.
Additionally, the police department has collaborated with Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority in the FD Cares program to co-respond and assist persons in crisis needing services. This program is funded by a portion of HB 1590 sales tax.

This budget continues to support our DUI Court at the Kent Municipal Court which is growing as more offenders choose alternative services that focus on long term change.
The DUI Court connects offenders who have substance use and mental health disorders to accountability and recovery support services. It is a specialized program dedicated to changing the behavior of high-risk DUI offenders through intensive treatment and supervision.



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2025-2026 Budget Police Department Growth

It is well known that Washington State has the lowest officers per capita in the country, and Kent is among the lowest in our state.

The 2025-2026 budget as proposed by Mayor Ralph, includes a modest increase in the business and occupation tax to fund two police sergeants, one police officer and one corrections sergeant.

The addition of two police sergeants will allow for increased oversight, leadership opportunities, and along with the additional officer, a slightly increased presence on the street. Funding one corrections sergeant will allow them the ability to supervise, mentor and develop their corrections officers instead of being pulled to work a post.



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2025-2026 Budget Flood Plain

Our Economic and Community Development Department has been approved to hire a Flood Plain Certified Engineer to administer the City’s flood plain certification program. A portion of this new position will be paid for out of the Drainage Fund.

This position is crucial for flood plain planning to ensure that the city is in compliance with State and Federal mandates for flood plains. A certified Flood Plain Engineer can assess flood risk, design structures to mitigate flood damage, and ensure building projects comply with local floodplain regulations, which are crucial for protecting property and residents in flood-prone areas.



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2025=2026 Budget Legal and Probation

The 2025-2026 budget includes the addition of an Assistant City Attorney for the Civil Division beginning in 2026. Our civil attorneys have been managing an increasing workload both in volume and complexity, areas of code enforcement issues related to problem properties, an increase in encampment related issues, and state legislative actions requiring change to City policies. The additional Attorney position will help with managing all these critical projects.

The workload for our probation officers has increased significantly as we have seen a rise in mental health and drug cases which require more intense supervision. The budget includes an additional Probation Officer to support general probation services, mental health caseloads and our growing DUI Court programs. Our Municipal Court was awarded a $75,000 grant from the Washington State Traffic Commission to cover half of the cost of the position in 2025, with the other half being covered by a shift in Opioid settlement dollars.



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leg south sound chamber

Earlier this week, I attended the Sound Sound Chambers of Commerce legislative coalition breakfast. We heard from area chamber CEOs about their legislative priorities, discussed housing, public safety, transportation, and supporting small businesses in our communities. 

 


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I loved seeing everyone who came out for the Winterfest parade and tree lighting! It was so much fun!

A huge thank you to our Kent Parks Department, Kent Lions Club, Santa, Public Works and Kent PD for making the spirit of Christmas shine in downtown Kent.

winterfest

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winter solstice

Tomorrow marks the Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year!  As the Earth tilts farthest from the Sun, the Sun’s path across the sky reaches its lowest point.

For centuries, cultures worldwide have recognized the solstice as a time for reflection, celebrating with festivals and rituals to honor the season's significance.



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Kent 101

*Kent 101 [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/kent-101?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]* is returning for a Spring Session in 2025!

If you haven't heard about it before, Kent 101 is our fun and interactive 8-week civics course that deepens understanding about local government and how it all works.

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, or retirees looking to be more involved in their community.

*Applications are now being accepted for the Spring 2025 session that starts in February! The deadline to apply is January 30, 2025. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/kent-101?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



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Yeti Scavenger Hunt 

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yeti scavenger hunt

The Kent Downtown Partnership came up with a clever way to celebrate the holiday season and show support to our local businesses!

Tiny yetis have made their way to historic downtown Kent, and they need your help to track them down.  Search for the hidden yetis, complete your passport, and submit it below for a chance to win awesome prizes! Such a fun way to explore our city! 

*Here's how you can participate! [ https://www.downtownkentwa.com/event/yeti-scavenger-hunt/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGrYexleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHYyJVoejhFoOiU_0mTqV8vV5iEQQ0s-JpmHkn53p4DgBSGT6FCNH_icBvA_aem_gc8jvWbqFTq5j4NPh_WDrQ&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

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parks commission

If you are looking to get more involved with the community, apply to join the City of Kent Parks & Recreation Commission! Learn more and apply online at *KentWA.gov/BoardsAndCommissions [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*.



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Come have some free family fun at the Kent Historical Museum!

Join staff for delightful winter-themed crafts, delicious hot chocolate and cookies, stories from our friends at the Kent Library!

The museum admission is free for the day, so don’t miss this opportunity to create lasting memories with your family at the Kent Historical Museum.

?? Tomorrow, December 21
⌚ Noon - 4 p.m.
?? Kent Historical Museum

family winter craft day

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santa photos
2024 Santa Photos at Santa's Cozy Cottage
in front of AMC! 

Santa is BACK at Kent Station! *Reserve your appointment online [ https://www.kentstation.com/events/santaphotos?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*. Walk-ins are allowed until one hour before the end of the day. 



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Kent Station Giving Tree!

*Kent Station will be collecting gifts for Seeds of Hope. [ https://www.kentstation.com/events/givingtree?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

From now through Monday, bring your unwrapped gifts and leave them in the drop box outside Johnny Rockets.


giving tree

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Drinks in the Driveway

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 at bit.ly/3VLfKsh [ http://bit.ly/3VLfKsh?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]



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Link Light Rail 

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metro

Transit changes are coming to south King County, and King County Metro want to hear from you. They are adding connections to future light rail stations, enhancing east-west routes, and more!

 

map

Give your feedback on proposed changes to transit services in South King County by attending a virtual open house or share your thoughts in a survey at bit.ly/3BiXJM8 [ https://t.co/rQufh36yIf?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ].

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With Christmas on Wednesday, I just wanted to encourage you to shop local as we all do that last minute shopping we don't want to admit to.

It's a great way to help support Kent small businesses and our local economy!

You can find all kinds of special and unique gifts locally—and don't forget to grab a bite while you're out!

Shop Small

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winter weather plan

We recently updated our Winter Weather Plan, which has tips and best practices for preparing for winter weather.

It 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 ]*



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*Sign up for Drive Kent traffic alerts* [ https://www.kentwa.gov/departments/public-works/transportation/traffic-advisories?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] to stay ahead of the curve on road closures due to weather or construction.

drive kent

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167 work

Join WSDOT at the next SR 167 Corridor Improvements project update meeting!

*Hear about upcoming construction work, ask questions, and find out how to stay informed about future closures of SR 167. [ https://www.facebook.com/events/1228669198432677/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A%5B%7B%22surface%22%3A%22home%22%7D%2C%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22attachment%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22newsfeed%22%7D%5D%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



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Police Department Retirement

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Sergeant Tim Ford retirement

Police Sergeant Tim Ford retired this week after 29 years of dedicated service to the City of Kent.

During his career his assignments included Patrol Officer, Field Trainer, K9, Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Detective/SIU Sergeant and Recruiting and Hiring Sergeant. Prior to his retirement, Sergeant Ford led the investigation that solved a 44-year-old cold case in 2024. 

Sergeant Ford worked diligently for the Kent community right up to the last moments of his career.

Congratulations Sergeant Ford on your well-earned retirement! 

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neighborhood

The Neighborhood Matching Grant Program opens up January 1, 2025. 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. *Here's information on how your neighborhood can apply! [ https://www.kentwa.gov/guides/neighborhood-program/neighborhood-grant-program?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*



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Winter Parks Guide

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Parks Guide

A new season of FUN is here!

Registration for Kent Parks Winter programming is now open. From NEW Youth programs to outdoor adventures for Adults age 50+ and everything in between, our Parks team has curated another season of incredible offerings – there is something for everyone in the family!

If you still need a guide, copies are available at the Kent Commons Community Center and the Kent Senior Activity Center or browse a digital guide online. Register online today at *MyKentParks.com/Register [ http://mykentparks.com/register?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*!

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disability retirement position

Interested in serving the Kent community? Applications for a Fire Department member position is available for the city's Disability Retirement Board.

*The board reviews medical and disability claims made by police officers and firefighters. [ https://www.kentwa.gov/government/boards-commissions?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] *



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Thank you to all the runners and walkers (and supporters!) who joined the Kent Parks team for the 42nd annual Christmas Rush. It was great to see almost 700 participants take to the course this year, especially those decked out in holiday attire! Christmas Rush is such a treasured tradition in our community, and I am already looking forward to 2025’s race!  

christmas rush runners

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2024-25 Spotlight Series 

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jazz at lincoln center

The Spotlight Series brings the best entertainment to local stages here in Kent.

Our next Spotlight Series show, Jazz at Lincoln Center Presents New Orleans Songbook, will take place on Friday, January 24 at the Kent-Meridian Performing Arts Center.

This performance will bring the soul of New Orleans and the spirit of Mardi Gras right here to Kent. Led by pianist Luther S. Allison and vocalists Quiana Lynell and Milton Suggs, it will be a night you won’t want to miss!

Tickets are now on sale for all shows. Read more about the performers, see ticket prices, and purchase tickets online at *KentWA.gov/SpotlightSeries. [ http://kentwa.gov/SpotlightSeries?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*

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Indoor Park

Indoor Park is back at the Kent Commons Community Center! On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings from 9:30-11am, drop by with your little one to experience a traditional playground brought indoors!

No registration is required. Open to all kids 10 months to 4.5 years old. Cost is $2 per visit for the first child and $1 for each additional child. Come by and PLAY!



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Campus Park Redevelopment Project 

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parks [ https://www.engagekentparks.com/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]

Our Parks team is preparing to kick off the Campus Park Redevelopment project.

This park is currently a wooded natural area with steep walking paths but has the potential for so much more. We need you to provide the Parks team with your feedback to help guide this exciting project!

Activity boards are currently posted at the Kent Library, located at 212 2nd Ave N. Stop by now through *January 6 *to provide your input! 

If you can’t make it to the library, take the survey online at *EngageKentParks.com [ https://www.engagekentparks.com/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]*! Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to help shape the future of Campus Park.

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showalk

The Kent Parks ShoWalk program is back at accesso ShoWare Center!

This free indoor walking program offers a warm, safe place to walk on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings during the cold, dark months of Winter.

*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 ]*!



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resident question

""Hello Mayor, the city was BUSY in 2024 with park and building renovations to expanding our city infrastructure. Will you be providing an update on those things soon? ""

Thank you for your question. 

Yes, I will. My annual progress report is coming out in a few weeks or preview it on our KentNow podcast. The progress report provides updates on all the wonderful things our amazing city staff have accomplished. Keep an eye out on all of our social platforms for the video and link to the webpage where you can read all about it. 



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Translations A/文

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translations

 

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