During a recent city council meeting in Bothell, outgoing president of the LGBTQ leaders in higher education, Rich Helldopler, expressed gratitude for a proclamation recognizing their contributions. Helldopler, who is also the president of William Patterson University in New Jersey, acknowledged the efforts of Kristen, who encouraged the group to visit Bothell, and promised to promote the city upon their return.

The meeting transitioned to public comments, where the city clerk noted that written comments had been submitted by three residents: Matthew Rearman, Susan Gardner, and Mark Swanson, addressing topics such as the comprehensive plan, the biennial budget, and climate issues in Seattle. While no residents had signed up to speak live, the council welcomed any audience members wishing to address the council within the established guidelines.

Mark Swanson took the opportunity to speak, raising concerns about potential violations of the Open Public Meetings Act, claiming to have photographic evidence of in-person meetings that he argued were not publicly disclosed. The council reminded Swanson to focus his comments on current and future city agendas, indicating a structured approach to public discourse during the meeting.