Bellevue City Council Meeting - June 23, 2026

The Bellevue City Council held a meeting on June 23, 2026, which included a public hearing on the 2027-2028 budget development process. The council heard from numerous community members and stakeholders who expressed priorities such as transportation safety, affordable housing, climate action funding, and utility infrastructure investments. The council discussed the city's revenue forecast, noting slow growth due to economic uncertainties and legislative changes affecting tax revenues. Development services presented on permit activity and fee structures, emphasizing full cost recovery and regional competitiveness. Utilities staff outlined anticipated rate increases driven by wholesale costs and infrastructure needs, with plans to expand bill assistance programs. The council also received a detailed presentation on an electric grid capacity study conducted in partnership with Puget Sound Energy and the City of Redmond, highlighting current capacity sufficiency but identifying potential future constraints at several substations. Recommendations included improved coordination, demand forecasting, and demand-side management strategies. The council engaged in a robust Q&A session addressing budget priorities, revenue challenges, infrastructure planning, and community engagement. Motions were passed to approve the consent calendar and to limit public hearing speaking times to two minutes to accommodate all speakers. The meeting concluded with announcements about future meetings and adjournment.