During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the inadequacies of senior housing in Kirkland, particularly focusing on a new development that features seven floors and 140 units, of which only 48 are compliant with accessibility standards. The facility lacks air conditioning except in public areas, offers limited parking, and does not provide shuttle services, forcing residents to navigate five lanes of traffic to access nearby parks and grocery stores.

Advocates emphasized the urgent need for affordable senior living options in Kirkland, highlighting that the current design and location of the new development fall short of meeting seniors' needs. They pointed out that climate change poses a significant health risk, particularly for older adults who are more vulnerable to extreme heat. A recent study from the University of Washington underscored the necessity for public health officials to allocate resources for cooling centers and other support systems in anticipation of more frequent heat waves.

The Kirkland Senior Council called for all new senior housing to include air conditioning, arguing that it is more cost-effective to install these systems during construction. They also suggested that the city could assist residents in acquiring air conditioning units through grants, as many cannot afford standalone units.

Furthermore, the council requested to be involved in the city’s planning processes for senior housing to ensure that the needs of older citizens are adequately addressed. With projections indicating that seniors will represent 40% of Kirkland's population by 2035, their input is deemed critical for future developments. The council urged city planners to collaborate with them to enhance the health and safety of senior residents in upcoming housing projects.