The Covington City Council Annual Tri-City Meeting held on February 25, 2026, brought together representatives from Covington, Black Diamond, and Maple Valley to discuss regional collaboration and updates from King County leadership. A significant portion of the meeting focused on public safety and community services, including discussions on police staffing challenges in contract cities, efforts to accelerate hiring for the King County Sheriff's Office, and the implementation of House Bill 2015 allowing contract cities to raise a public safety sales tax to fund additional officers. The King County Executive and Council member Reagan Dunn highlighted county priorities such as breaking cycles of homelessness and addiction, building affordable housing, and improving government efficiency. The meeting also covered technical assistance for smaller cities, transportation needs, and coordination on permitting for battery energy storage systems. Public safety presentations included updates on community policing initiatives, use of drone technology, and crime trends. Fire services discussed funding models, annexation opportunities, and health and wellness programs for firefighters. Additionally, the meeting addressed community outreach programs targeting homelessness and behavioral health, as well as upcoming community events and regional partnerships. Several budget and funding topics were discussed, including the county's approach to budget shortfalls, tax considerations, and grant opportunities for local projects. The meeting emphasized strong inter-city cooperation, coordination, and collaboration to address shared challenges and improve services for residents.

Covington City Council Annual Tri-City Meeting - February 25, 2026