City Manager Issues Emergency Proclamation to Address Food Insecurity

Published on November 12, 2025

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Media Contact:  
David Wolbrecht 
Communications Program Manager 
dwolbrecht@kirklandwa.gov 
(425) 587-3021 

KIRKLAND, Wash. – As directed by the Kirkland City Council at its regular meeting on November 5, 2025, City Manager Kurt Triplett has issued a proclamation declaring a local state of emergency in response to the abrupt halt of federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The proclamation authorizes emergency actions to help mitigate food insecurity among Kirkland residents. 

In Kirkland alone, an estimated 7,500 individuals in about 3,000 households rely on SNAP benefits. The loss of these benefits, combined with the furlough of federal workers and the ongoing erosion of social safety net programs, has sharply increased demand on local food banks and nonprofit human service providers, which are resources that have already been stretched to capacity.  

“This situation represents an immediate and serious threat to the well-being of our community,” said City Manager Kurt Triplett. “While federal funding for SNAP continues to be uncertain and dynamic, this emergency proclamation allows the City to act quickly with maximum flexibility to support our residents who are most affected.” 

The emergency proclamation, authorized by Resolution R-5700, allows the City to: 

  1. Expedite funding and operational support to human services partner agencies;
  2. Temporarily waive or modify City procedures and requirements that may delay response efforts;
  3. Enter into emergency agreements to secure food, supplies, or other assistance; and
  4. Deploy staff or resources as needed to maintain essential services and community support. 

“We are a compassionate community,” said Deputy Mayor Jay Arnold. “This action ensures we can respond swiftly and work alongside our partners to help fill the gaps created by the interruption of SNAP funding.” 

The local emergency will remain in effect through December 31, 2025, or until SNAP benefits are restored by the federal government, whichever comes first. 

For more information about the City’s response or to find food assistance resources, visit www.kirklandwa.gov. 

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