Kirkland Development News
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City Council Meeting
Published: Jun 16, 2026
City Council Deadlocks on Proposed Increase to Affordable Housing Fee Exemption Threshold
The City Council considered proposed amendments to zoning code Chapter 112 regarding affordable housing requirements for lower density zones. The primary discussion centered on whether to increase the exemption threshold for affordable housing fees from 2000 square feet to 2500 square feet for townhouses, duplexes, and triplexes. Proponents of the increase argued that the 2000 sq ft threshold is too low, not accounting for garages and practical living space, hindering the development of smaller, affordable family-sized units and multi-generational housing. They cited the average size of townhouses in Kirkland being around 2350 sq ft and noted that neighboring cities have higher fees and stricter requirements without exempting middle housing. Opponents of the increase argued that the 2500 sq ft threshold would disincentivize the development of smaller, more affordable housing units and reduce funding for affordable housing initiatives. They emphasized the city's need to produce more housing, particularly smaller units, and that the 2000 sq ft threshold does not significantly impede middle housing production. The council debated the balance between incentivizing housing production and generating revenue for affordable housing. Ultimately, the motion to adopt the ordinance increasing the threshold to 2500 sq ft failed on a 3-3 tie vote, leaving the 2000 sq ft threshold in place. The tie vote means the ordinance was not adopted.
City Council Considers Progressive Design-Build for Peter Kirk Pool Project
The City Council heard a presentation on alternative delivery methods for the Peter Kirk Pool project, specifically progressive design-build. This method involves contracting with a design-build team early in the process to manage risks associated with complex renovations, integrating new and old systems, and a tight construction schedule. The presentation highlighted the benefits of early contractor involvement, real-time cost validation, schedule advantages through overlapping design and construction, and the ability to procure long-lead items early. The city is seeking approval to apply to the Project Review Committee (PRC) to use this method. Guests from Lake Washington School District shared their positive experiences with progressive design-build on school projects, emphasizing its flexibility in adjusting to unknowns and delivering projects faster and at lower costs. Concerns were raised about the $60 million bond not solely being for the CSP program and the potential for additional costs associated with architectural fees in this delivery method. The council discussed the PRC application process and the criteria for project qualification. The City Manager requested council authorization to submit the application to the PRC, with a follow-up review by the council if approved.
Kirkland Council Suspends 'Truck Eating Bridge Mural Project' Due to Complexity and Repeated Damage
The City Council discussed and unanimously voted to remove the 'Truck Eating Bridge Mural Project' from the Cultural Arts Commission's work program. The project, initiated in 2023, aimed to paint a mural on an old rail bridge in the Everest neighborhood that frequently experiences truck strikes. The council cited the project's complexity due to multiple stakeholders, differing community opinions, concerns about traffic safety, historical preservation, and the repeated damage and repainting required after truck strikes as reasons for its suspension. The Cultural Arts Commission also supported removing the project due to its complexity and the availability of other higher-priority projects.
City Council Approves 2025-2026 Mid-Year Budget Adjustments
The City Council reviewed proposed amendments to the 2025-2026 biennial budget, totaling approximately $6 million in adjustments, with $3.1 million in appropriation adjustments recognizing new revenue. These adjustments cover various categories including council-directed changes, other items requiring council action, line-item adjustments, capital project adjustments, and position changes. Notable council-directed items include additional funding for the Public Works Maintenance Center, a transfer for church acquisition, and funding for the Kraken Ice Plex and Kirkland Community Center design costs. Other items include reimbursements for wildland fire deployments, additional BLS levee funding, and the substitution of fire impact fee funding for a ladder truck. Capital project adjustments include additional funding for the City Hall mobile office expansion and a reduction in debt funding for the Houghton Park and Ride stormwater facility. The proposed budget also includes $100,000 for supplemental assistance to evaluate the Cascade Water Alliance's future rate increases. The council approved the budget amendments.
Sheila Staunton Place Update: Six Months of Operation and Community Integration
The City Council received an update on Sheila Staunton Place, a permanent supportive housing facility (formerly La Quinta Hotel) under the Health Through Housing initiative. The facility, home to 40 formerly unhoused Kirkland residents, has been open for six months. Presentations covered community engagement efforts, the naming of the facility after local advocate Sheila Stanton, resident experiences, and facility updates. King County reported that the major renovation is complete, but a significant plumbing leak has temporarily taken 15 units offline, slowing lease-up. Despite this, the facility has housed all eligible individuals referred by the Kirkland Heart Team. Plymouth Housing detailed their community engagement strategies, including monthly meetings with neighbors and participation in local events. They emphasized their person-centered approach to case management and community building within the facility. Residents receive comprehensive services, including case management, substance use disorder assessments, financial counseling, and job training. The facility has also hosted community gatherings and outings. The council discussed the importance of volunteer opportunities and the need for continued community support. The presentation highlighted the facility's positive impact on reducing homelessness in Kirkland and the broader East Side.
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