Redmond City Council hears concerns over closure of old Firehouse Teen Center

Redmond City Council faced significant community concerns during its recent meeting on April 15, 2025, particularly regarding the abrupt closure of the Old Firehouse Teen Center (OFH). The center, a vital resource for local youth, has been criticized for its administrative closure, which many believe lacked transparency and public input.

During the meeting, community members voiced their frustrations, emphasizing that the decision to close OFH was made without adequate discussion or a formal vote by the council. Speakers highlighted the importance of the center as a safe space for teens and called for greater community involvement in decisions that directly affect young residents. One speaker, Sylvan Gaskin, articulated the need for transparency, stating that the council must ensure that decisions are made with genuine community engagement rather than behind closed doors.

Concerns were also raised about the allocation of $74,000 to Stevenson and Associates for teen outreach, which some argued did not reflect true engagement with the youth. Gaskin pointed out that the lack of documented community consensus regarding the closure raises ethical questions about the decision-making process and potential conflicts of interest, particularly given the involvement of local developers in campaign contributions.

Councilmember Fields responded to the public testimony, assuring attendees that their voices were heard and appreciated. He emphasized the council's commitment to listening to community concerns and reiterated that no final decisions had been made regarding the future of the OFH.

As the council continues to navigate these pressing issues, the community is calling for a reversal of the closure and a thorough review of the decision-making process. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial in restoring trust and ensuring that local governance prioritizes the needs of its residents, particularly the youth who rely on essential community services.