April 16 Recap

Staff in attendance: CAO Ed VanValey, Deputy CAO Kristi Rowland; Communications and Engagement Director Laura Pettitt, Utility Systems Director Ron Straka; RPD Officer Chandler Swain, Parks and Recreation Administrator MaryJane VanCleave, Mayor’s Office Executive Assistant Linda Moschetti, Recreation Director Jen Spencer, Organizational Development Manager Ryan Spencer; Government Affairs Manager Eric Perry.

Summary:

7 members of the community attended the discussion at The Berliner.
Several staff from city departments were in attendance.
The event lasted an hour.
Topics discussed:
- Review of Renton’s Tax Revenue:
- Review of Renton's Expenditures:
- Find Monthly Sales Tax Summaries
- Concerns were raised about the former Boeing Building- Park and 6th
  - The Community and Economic Development Department and Public Works are in agreement on the importance of upkeep and security for the building. The city agreed trespassing and the drug activity are not permissible. Updates were shared on the vision for the property, including retaining the parking garage structure and demolishing the main building. Public Works are going out regularly to keep the building secure, fencing and no trespassing signs have been posted. The City assesses per day fees for the building being out of code compliance, from $13,000 - $20,000/day. The issue has risen to a Legal – compliance through code enforcement is our first goal as a City. The complication is that property soil is next to a contaminated area, and a mixed-use structure may not be feasible. Security enhancements continue.
  - Comments about the barricade suggested that poles go in, conjoined instead of place to keep the area more secure. The city shared that the legal issues slow it down, are we liable, we want it secured.
- Accidents on Maple Valley Highway – This is a location with some of the most collisions or accidents, police have put speed cameras there.
- The city shared about its free Microchipping program for pets.
  - In partnership with the Renton Community Foundation and Eastside Veterinary Associates, free microchipping services are available for Renton pets. This service normally costs around $70 per animal. Renton residents can visit Eastside Veterinary Associates, 1700 NE 44th St., Monday through Friday.
  - Check-in is at 11:30 a.m. No appointment is necessary. Proof of Renton residency via a driver's license or utility bill is required during service.
- Bothell's proclamation on an Inclusive City: Renton is following in footsteps to “renew our vows” with a highlight on the original Inclusive City Proclamation.
- Rainier Ave: Complaints were raised on how long the project has taken and the traffic that has resulted, city staff addressed expanded communications efforts on delays and estimated time of project completion.
- Sound Transit: There is an estimate of 10 years to develop the transit lot in Renton, CoR staff to welcome Dow Constantine to the role of CEO for Sound Transit.
- Renton River Days: City staff discussed the reason behind changes made to the weekend post-COVID, including hosting vendors inside, expanding playzone and beer garden, use of Liberty Park.
  - Keep updated on 2025 River Days events here