City Launches “Conversations with Council” Engagement Program

Published on January 20, 2026

The City of Kirkland is launching a new community engagement pilot program, Conversations with Council, designed to create more informal, accessible opportunities for residents to connect directly with City Councilmembers outside of formal meetings.

The Conversations with Council events will offer casual, drop-in gatherings where community members can share ideas, ask questions, and get to know their elected officials through small group or one-on-one conversations. There is no agenda, presentation, or prepared remarks—just conversation.

“Strong communities are built through connection,” said Kirkland Mayor Kelli Curtis. “Conversations with Council creates more opportunities for community members to engage with us in a casual setting, share what matters to them, and help shape the future of Kirkland.”

Each gathering will be hosted at rotating locations throughout the city, including a variety community spaces, libraries, parks, and commercial areas. Two to three Councilmembers will attend each session on a rotating basis. The City will host three Conversations with Council gatherings per quarter and will announce scheduled events on a quarterly basis.

Upcoming Q1 2026 Conversations with Council events include:

• Monday, January 26, 9 to 11 a.m.
  Peter Kirk Community Center
• Saturday, February 21, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  Kingsgate Library
• Thursday, March 19, 4 to 6 p.m.
  North Kirkland Community Center

Community members are encouraged to drop in at any time during the events. Feedback from participants will help shape and evolve the program to meet the needs of the community.

For more information about the Conversations with Council program and other happenings at the City of Kirkland, visitwww.kirklandwa.gov/Government/City-Council/Conversations-with-Council.