Changes to City Operations Effective 12 p.m. Monday, March 16

Published on March 16, 2020

Media Contact:
Kellie Stickney
Communications Program Manager
kstickney@kirklandwa.gov
(425) 979-6562

KIRKLAND, Wash. – In response to guidance from Public Health – Seattle & King County, the City will be closing City Hall to the public starting at 12 p.m. today, March 16. Additionally, the Council Chamber will not be open to the public during the City Council meeting on Tuesday, March 17.

Because of the alternative access options staff have developed, and in response to the new directives from Governor Inslee, we will be closing City Hall to the public starting at 12 p.m. today, March 16. After noon, the public will still be able to access remote services for all permit activities, parks registration, and enhanced use of the utility payment box to serve those without technology access. We will provide more information as we work to implement plans to create additional remote access to services.

“These closures are part of our ongoing efforts to keep our employees and the community safe while still providing essential services,” said City Manager Kurt Triplett. “We appreciate everyone’s patience and flexibility in the coming days and weeks.”

The City Hall Council Chamber will also be closed to the public for the Tuesday, March 17 meeting. As always, the Kirkland City Council welcomes public involvement at its meetings and would like to encourage community members to take advantage of its available options for digital participation. The meeting can be viewed in real time via the live stream on the City website at: http://www.kirklandwa.gov/depart/council/Meetings/WatchCouncilMeetings.htm, and is televised on Comcast Cable Channel 21 and Frontier Cable Channel 31. A study session immediately preceding the meeting begins at 5:30 p.m., with the Council meeting starting promptly at 7:30 p.m. The agenda for the March 17 meeting is available on the City website at: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/depart/council/Meetings/Agendas/Agenda_031720.htm.

Members of the public can provide comment in advance of the meeting using the public comment voicemail line, at 425-587-3090, or by email at: councilmeetingcomment@kirklandwa.gov.

“We thank Kirkland residents for their patience as we find ways to balance the preservation of public participation with the health and safety of our community,” said Mayor Penny Sweet. “We are grateful to our IT department for its work to enhance our digital availability and look forward to receiving your comments and feedback through our ‘virtual’ options.”

The City will continue to update its website with information on the COVID-19 outbreak.