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September 11, 2025
What if your home battery could earn you money while helping keep the grid stable? Puget Sound Energy’s Flex Batteries Program offers customers a $1,000 enrollment bonus and up to $500 a year just for signing up. We’re joined by David Barnes to break down how it works, who qualifies, and why this program is a win for your wallet and the community. Check it out.
The next meeting of the Kirkland City Council is on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. Here’s a brief overview of some of the items on the Business Agenda, which starts at 7:30 p.m.:
Council will receive a report on King County Wastewater Treatment Division seeking an emergency exemption from the City's permitting process to repair the Eastside Interceptor Section 14, which runs under the Cross Kirkland Corridor. The Eastside Interceptor conveys 10 million gallons of wastewater per day through Kirkland during dry season flows. King County repair operations will require a CKC trail closure, which is anticipated to begin as early as September 22.
Council will consider adopting co-living housing regulations, as required by state law.
Council will consider adopting various miscellaneous code amendments that make minor revisions to various sections of the Kirkland Zoning Code and Kirkland Municipal Code. Every year, staff propose these miscellaneous code amendments relating to zoning and land use that are necessary to reflect current practice, clarify codes, maintain consistency with relevant State and/or federal regulations, and promote good planning principles.
Prior to the above business agenda, the Council will also hold a Study Session starting at 5:30 p.m., where they will receive:
- An overview of the Kirkland Municipal Court's services
- An update on the Kirkland Fire Department's Mobile Integrated Health Program
Meeting details:
The business meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. and is preceded by a 5:30 p.m. study session. The agenda for the September 16 meeting will be available on the City website prior to the meeting on the Kirkland City Council agendas webpage. You can also receive meeting agendas in your inbox by subscribing to “City Council Agendas” on the Kirkland email lists subscription page.
How to watch: Kirkland City Council meetings are streamed live and can be watched after the fact on the City's:
Meetings are also televised on Comcast Cable Channel 21 and Ziply Cable Channel 31.
How to participate: Members of the public wishing to address the Council may do so in-person or via Zoom during the “Items from the Audience” part of the agenda. That part of the agenda occurs at the beginning of the Council’s business meeting, which starts at 7:30 p.m. Information on the comment sign up process to provide comment to the City Council, and on attending the meeting virtually, is available on the City Council webpage.
Written comments can also be submitted to CityCouncil@kirklandwa.gov. For additional questions, please call the City Clerk’s Office at (425) 587-3190.
Stay in the know: you can also get a preview of what’s coming up at Council in the coming weeks and months by checking out the City Council Agenda Calendar. Please note: this calendar is subject to frequent change and does not constitute legal notice.
On September 11, 2001, 2,977 lives were tragically lost in the deadliest terrorist attack in history. Among them were parents, children, friends, neighbors, and colleagues whose lives were cut short, along with 343 firefighters and 71 law enforcement officers who gave their lives in service.
We will never forget.
Houghton Beach and Juanita Beach Are Closed to Water Activities
As of 4 p.m. on September 9, 2025, Public Health – Seattle & King County is recommending that people and pets stay out of the water at the swimming areas of both Houghton Park and Juanita Beach Park for at least one week due to elevated bacteria levels. Signs will be positioned to indicate that people and pets should stay out of the water. The rest of the parks remains open.
Read more.
Suspect Arrested in Homicide Investigation
On September 4, Kirkland Police responded to a 911 call from a woman reporting that she and her mother had been stabbed inside their apartment at the Kirkland Heights Apartments, located in the 13400 block of NE 132nd Street. The suspect was known by the victims and fled before officers arrived. The suspect has been arrested.
Read more.
Kirkland Arts Center and City of Kirkland are proud to announce the first Umbrella Fringe Festival. Taking place in venues across downtown Kirkland from October 3 through 5, 2025, the festival will be an eclectic variety of music, theater, visual art, comedy, and the entertainingly undefinable.
“Fringe is about enjoying unexpected art and undiscovered artists,” said Councilmember Penny Sweet. “It’s a fantastic new way for people to connect with creativity, each other, and our community as a whole.”
Read more.
The City of Kirkland saved more than $22,000 in 2024 by participating in Puget Sound Energy’s Commercial Strategic Energy Management (CSEM) program. The City’s energy savings equaled $11,056 in direct incentives from PSE and an estimated $11,804 in avoided utility costs. In terms of actual energy usage, the City of Kirkland saved 84,770 kilowatt-hours of electricity and 4,174 therms of natural gas in 2024.
“Kirkland is proud to be a part of this program and help encourage others to save money,” said Councilmember Neal Black. “Through the CSEM program, we’ve shown that managing the City’s energy usage benefits both the environment and taxpayers. We hope our local businesses sign up for the program and see similar results to their bottom lines.”
Read more.
Did you know your home battery could help support the grid and earn you money? Puget Sound Energy’s Flex Batteries Program offers customers a $1,000 enrollment incentive plus up to $500 annually per battery for participating.
Here’s how it works:
- Enroll: If you have a compatible battery system, you can sign up with PSE.
- Earn: Get a one-time $1,000 bonus and annual rewards for continued participation.
- Support the Grid: During high-demand “Flex Events,” PSE may draw from your battery, but never below 20% capacity, so your backup power is always protected.
- Enhanced Incentives: For customers with limited income or other qualifying circumstances, PSE offers additional support to offset equipment and installation costs.
Don’t have a battery yet? You may qualify for upfront financial assistance. Learn more at PSE’s Flex Batteries webpage
And here’s the really exciting part: NW Electric and Solar will be at City Hall for All this Saturday, September 13 in the Sustainability Showcase (Booth C10). They’ll have a solar panel, battery backup system, car charger, and the technology that ties it all together and show how clean energy solutions can boost energy independence and community resilience during power outages.
Want even more sustainability?
The Sustainability Showcase is back at City Hall for All, offering a wealth of information on alternative energy, waste reduction, climate resilience, and more.
This Saturday, September 13, be sure to check out:
- Fixer Fair by Seattle REconomy: Bring small electronics or garments for repair and learn about tool libraries.
- Dining in Style with Durables: Enjoy food on reusable dishes and utensils provided by Perennial Zero Waste.
- Week Without Driving Campaign: Explore the challenges non-drivers face and ways to improve inclusive transportation.
- Energy Smart Eastside: Learn how to get a $1,000 instant rebate on heat pumps for Eastside residents.
- Northwest Electric and Solar: See solar panels, a car charger, and a backup battery system in action.
- Tree Giveaway: Pick the right tree for the right spot with help from Kirkland’s Environmental Coordinator.
- Electric Bicycle Test Rides: Try out an e-bike and get safety tips from Kirkland Bicycle.
- Pollinator Pathways: Discover pollinator-friendly planting tips to support bees and butterflies.
- Natural Yard Care and Salmon Hats: Talk with stormwater experts and enjoy salmon hats for kids.
- Waste Management Education: Get recycling, composting tips, and reuse giveaways at the Waste Station.
Join us at City Hall for All to explore these engaging exhibits and initiatives designed to make our community more sustainable.
World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10, and National Suicide Prevention Week is September 7 through 13, 2025. It’s a time to remember those affected by suicide, to raise awareness, and to focus efforts on directing treatment to those who need it most. According to the 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline, here are some actions that can promote healing, help, and give hope:
- Ask: Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.
- Be There: Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful by after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.
- Keep Them Safe: A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline.
- Help Them Stay Connected: Studies indicate that helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.
- Follow Up: Studies have also shown that brief, low-cost intervention and supportive, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially for individuals after they have been discharged from hospitals or care services.
If you are currently experiencing a crisis, please call the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. Dial 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for more information. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the US.
Have you wondered about a career in the fire service or emergency medical response? The Future Women in EMS and Fire Workshop is a FREE two-day event designed to help women across King County explore these dynamic professions. Hosted by Seattle Fire on October 18 - 19, the workshop offers hands-on activities, live demonstrations, discussion panels, and opportunities to connect with women already working in fire and EMS.
Space is limited - register by September 22 to reserve your spot: https://bit.ly/3cT5tnG
National Police Women’s Day, celebrated each year on September 12, is a day that pays tribute to the brave women in law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities. According to the Bureau of Justice Assistance, women have only represented about 12 percent of law enforcement officers in the United States, despite making up over half of the population.
Throughout history, female police officers have broken barriers, shattered stereotypes and shown unwavering dedication in their service. Their strength, courage and commitment have paved the way for future generations of female law enforcement officers.
Thank you to the women of the Kirkland Police Department for serving our community with honor, integrity, and courage.
If you or someone you know is interested in a challenging and rewarding career in law enforcement, consider joining the Kirkland Police Department: https://www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/Departments/Police-Department/Police-Jobs
Last week, the City of Kirkland marked the bittersweet retirement of Police Chief Cherie Harris, who concluded more than 30 years of service in law enforcement. Chief Harris has led the Kirkland Police Department since 2016, guiding the agency with integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to community trust.
Chief Harris has been recognized as a trailblazer for women in law enforcement and a role model for balancing public service and family life. Her steady leadership and vision have left a lasting impact on both the department and the Kirkland community. The City thanks Chief Harris for her extraordinary service and wishes her the very best in retirement. Learn more about Chief Harris’s career and contributions: News Release - Kirkland Police Chief Cherie Harris Announces Retirement.
From homework help to language support to math clubs, King County Library System's free programs build knowledge, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Whether online or in-person, you choose the format that works best for your family.
Visit kcls.org/back-to-school to learn more.
Don’t miss the 7th Annual Kirkland Cadet Benefit Car Show on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Kirkland Justice Center from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free, family-friendly event is a favorite for car lovers and a great way to support the Kirkland Police Department’s Cadet Program. Bring the family, meet the cadets, and vote for your favorite car. We’ll see you there!
Got a car to show off? Register your car and enter to win one of six unique trophies.
Last week, six Kirkland firefighters were deployed to help battle wildfires burning across Washington.
Four firefighters and an engine are assigned to the Crown Creek Fire north of Kettle Falls, where they are working to protect homes in the area. Two additional Kirkland personnel are serving on a helicopter crew at the Windy Rock Fire.
Deputy Chief Patrick LeDoux, who also serves as the Zone Resource Coordinator, has been coordinating additional support for the statewide response and deployed two strike teams from our region to assist firefighting efforts.
We are proud of our crews and grateful for all the firefighters working tirelessly to protect communities across Washington.
Central Way Street Preservation
Grinding will complete this week, and then base repairs are expected on Central Way, Wednesday September 10 to Friday September 13. Night paving will follow, now expected the week of September 22. Drivers can expect reduced street parking and lane shifts as Lakeside Industries crews prepare the street for overlay. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/overlay for project updates on Thursdays.
Market Street @ 9th Avenue
Work on the Stores to Shores Greenway project may temporarily close one direction of Market Street around 9th Street to build the greenway facilities. This project is also working in the Highlands neighborhood on the Greenway route. Short detours will be posted onsite for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/storestoshores for project updates on Thursdays.
100th Avenue Northeast
Drivers will encounter traffic control along the freshly paved section of 100th Avenue Northeast south of Simonds Road Northeast. Final paving north of Simonds Road Northeast is expected to be complete. Pavement markings will be applied along the new street in September.
Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/100thavedesign for project updates on Thursdays.
Northeast 85th Street: I-405 to 6th Street
Northeast 85th Street is a single lane in each direction from I-405 to 6th Street for the NE 85th Street shared-use pathway project. The Cross Kirkland Corridor is closed at Northeast 85th Street to Northeast 87th Street. Work will begin on the stormwater system near 6th Street.
Visit https://www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/Departments/Public-Works-Department/Construction-Projects/NE-85th-Street-Shared-Use-Pathway for project updates on Thursdays.
Northeast 85th Street: 122th Avenue Northeast to 120nd Avenue Northeast
On Northeast 85th Street east of I-405, daytime work has begun to build the soldier pile wall on the north side of Northeast 85th Street between 120th Avenue Northeast and 122nd Avenue Northeast. Daytime work will reduce eastbound traffic to one lane between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Overnight, traffic will be impacted from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. as Kirkland’s contractor upgrades the stormwater facilities and other utility work. Visit https://www.kirklandwa.gov/Government/Departments/Public-Works-Department/Construction-Projects/NE-85th-Street-Eastbound-3rd-Lane for project updates on Thursdays.
Goat Hill
Kirkland's contractor will continue roadway demolishing and paving over the next few weeks. Residents should follow onsite traffic control for the most up to date information. As always, visit https://www.kirklandwa.gov/goathill for project updates on Thursdays.
124th Avenue Northeast
Work continues on 124th Avenue Northeast, between Northeast 116th Street and Northeast 124th Street. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/124thavenue for project updates on Thursdays.
Mabon Festival
Date: Sunday, September 14
Time: 12 - 6 p.m.
Location: Marina Park
Join the PNW Witches' Market in celebration of the autumnal equinox! The Sunday afternoon festival will offer witchy vendors and performers from all over the PNW. Join the growing witchy community and enjoy mystical merchants, artisans, psychic readings, community chat space and more. For more information, visit the event page.
Senior Resource Fair
Date: Thursday, September 18
Time: 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Peter Kirk Community Center, 352 Kirkland Ave
Join us for a fun community event for adults 50+ and their families!
Explore local services on health, wellness, legal assistance, transportation, senior living options, and more. Get answers to your questions and connect with helpful resources in your area. This is a free, drop-in event open to all community members. For questions, please call 425-587-3360. For more information, visit the event page.
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