Kennewick council member opposes Senate Bill 5184 citing inadequate transit system

The House Local Government meeting held on March 14, 2025, at 10:30 am, focused on several key issues affecting local governance in Washington. The session was chaired by Jim Milbauer, who is also a council member for the city of Kennewick.

The meeting began with public testimonies, where various stakeholders expressed their views on Senate Bill 5184. Jim Milbauer voiced strong opposition to the bill, highlighting that Kennewick lacks a robust transit system capable of providing efficient service across the community. He emphasized the rural nature of the area, noting that many residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting to work or school. Milbauer underscored that Kennewick is currently, and will likely remain, an auto-centric community.

Following Milbauer's testimony, additional speakers, including Nick Bond and Matt Herrera, contributed to the discussion, although specific details of their statements were not provided in the transcript. The meeting also included testimonies from other community members, such as Rebecca Denig, Kristen Hollingsworth, Sandra Mochizuki, and Rachel Sigdahl, who may have addressed various aspects of local governance and community needs.

As the meeting progressed, the committee members engaged in discussions regarding the implications of Senate Bill 5184 on local transit and community planning. The overall sentiment expressed during the testimonies indicated a concern for the current state of transportation infrastructure and the need for tailored solutions that reflect the unique characteristics of rural communities like Kennewick.

In conclusion, the House Local Government meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding transit systems in rural areas, particularly in Kennewick. The discussions underscored the importance of considering local contexts when evaluating legislative proposals, with a clear indication that the community's reliance on automobiles is a critical factor in future planning and policy decisions. Further actions and follow-up discussions are expected as the committee continues to address these pressing issues.