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Art of Listening Workshops this Fall

The City of Bellevue is offering free "Art of Listening" workshops in partnership with the King County Library System. The workshops will run on Tuesdays from Sept. 24 to Oct. 15, 6-8 p.m. at the Bellevue Library, teaching participants how to improve their listening skills and focus on effective communication. Led by Marci McReynolds of the Bellevue Conflict Resolution Center, the sessions aim to help individuals connect, understand, and support others through listening.

Openings on Bellevue's Human Services Commission

The City Council is seeking applicants for vacancies on Bellevue's Human Services Commission. Residents can apply online by Monday, Sept. 23. The commission advises the council on human services planning and funding, representing the community's diversity. Meetings are held on the first and third Mondays of each month. Applications can be submitted online or picked up at various city locations.

Bellevue Arts Museum to Close Due to Financial Struggles

After months of financial difficulties following the pandemic, the Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM) announced its closure. The museum, like many others, experienced a significant drop in foot traffic and donations. Despite a fundraising campaign that raised over $350,000, BAM can no longer sustain its operations. The museum will continue to manage the Bellevue Arts Fair in 2025 but will cease exhibitions and programming.

Bellevue Boys & Girls Club to Raise Funds for Families in Need

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue will host Great Futures Day, an annual online giving event aimed at raising funds for scholarships that support Bellevue families in need. With over 60% of participants benefiting from financial aid, the event seeks to address the growing demand for after-school programs. Community members are encouraged to donate or become ambassadors to help provide scholarships that ensure every child in Bellevue has access to enriching programs.

This Week's Highlights

• The Mercer Slough Farmstand - Every Wednesday through Saturday 9am to 6pm and 9am to 5pm on Sundays
• Flower Hour: The Dahlia Display - September 12th at 5pm in the Bellevue Botanical Garden

City Council Recap

On September 3, 2024, the Kirkland City Council approved zoning code amendments, provided feedback on policies, and proclaimed National Hispanic Heritage Month, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and Recovery Month. The Energy Smart Eastside program update is rescheduled for September 17.

Community Conversations

The Planning Commission will hold meetings on September 12 (public hearing) and September 26 (open house and public hearing) for the Comprehensive Plan update. A joint City Council/Planning Commission Study Session is scheduled for October 15.

Meet Council member Jon Pascal

Watch the video to learn about Council member Jon Pascal's journey to serve on the Council and his experience feeding wild black bears.

Park Updates

O.O. Denny Park and Houghton Beach Park have reopened for water activities following closures due to health recommendations.

Volunteers Needed

City Hall For All is seeking volunteers for various roles. Contact Mikayla at mbinns@kirklandwa.gov for more information or to sign up.

Green Kirkland Partnership

New Steward Orientation includes online and in-person sessions starting September 19. Register on the New Steward Orientation Event Page.

Upcoming Events

• City Hall for All - September 14, featuring a sustainability showcase, cultural performances, and interactive activities
• Peace Day Celebration - September 18th from 8:30-9:30am
• Kirkland Cadet Car Show - September 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.