Kirkland City Council Meeting September 15, 2026

Kirkland City Council’s September 15, 2026 meeting included proposed utility rates, human-services funding recommendations, capital projects, and a potential development agreement. Council approved Alternative 1 for the Highlands water-system long-term improvement, estimated at $8.1 million; $1.14 million is already available, with approximately $6.96 million identified for the proposed 2027–2032 CIP. The selected option is intended to restore pressure while improving system connectivity and fire-flow performance. Council also approved staff’s use of Transportation Benefit District contingency funds for project shortfalls: the four proposed scope removals return about $1.4 million, while approximately $2.23 million would support projects with cost increases, leaving an estimated $2.8 million in contingency. No vendor or construction contract award was made. Proposed utility rate schedules were discussed, with final adoption expected October 20; no rates were adopted at this meeting.

The Human Services Commission presented funding recommendations for 2027–2028, including a recommended package covering 31 programs and options totaling $634,000 per year or $511,000 per year for additional/continued funding. The city manager said the recommended budget was being developed with a goal of funding options A and B, but council took no funding vote. Council also discussed Main Street Property Group’s proposed Slate Peak development agreement, including 170 housing units, 10% income-restricted units, and proposed community benefits; staff was asked to continue refining the proposal, with no agreement approved. The consent calendar, including payroll of about $8.25 million and bills of about $4.49 million, was approved.