Bellevue City Council Meeting - October 27, 2026

The Bellevue City Council held its third and final public hearing on the preliminary 2027–2028 budget on October 27, 2026, with budget adoption targeted for November 17. Public testimony focused heavily on transportation funding and major capital projects. Supporters urged funding the Grand Connection Crossing, citing connectivity and economic-development benefits; opponents questioned its cost and priorities, with estimates cited by speakers ranging from $150–200 million to $200–225 million and $278 million. Speakers also debated a proposed Transportation Benefit District and sales-tax increase, including whether residents should vote on it and how funds should be allocated among congestion relief, neighborhood safety, sidewalks, cycling, and other projects. Other capital concerns included the proposed $60.5 million park operations facility, a $75 million Spring Boulevard extension opposed by several speakers, and neighborhood impacts from a planned reservoir project. No budget adoption or project-funding vote occurred; the council closed the public hearing after a motion and vote. The adoption of the consent calendar and meeting agenda also passed.

Other budget requests included $50,000 over two years for the Bellevue Farmers Market and increased climate-program funding, with speakers advocating additional investment in building decarbonization and Energy Smart East Side. Housing and homelessness services, public safety, affordability, and city spending levels were also raised. No contract awards, bids, vendor selections, or other procurement transactions were identified in the meeting.