Redmond Council faces community outcry over Old Firehouse Teen Center closure

During the Redmond City Council's recent business meeting on April 15, 2025, significant discussions centered around the controversial closure of the Old Firehouse Teen Center, a beloved community space for local youth. The decision to relocate teen programs to the Redmond Community Center at Marymoor Village was made due to safety concerns regarding hazardous materials and structural issues at the Old Firehouse. City officials emphasized the need to ensure the health and safety of staff and visitors, stating that maintaining the building had become unsustainable.

The council acknowledged the emotional impact of the closure, as numerous community members expressed their concerns during the public comment period. Many speakers, including former attendees and advocates, voiced their disappointment and frustration over the abrupt decision, which they felt lacked transparency and adequate community engagement. They highlighted the Old Firehouse's historical significance and its role as a safe haven for teens, contrasting it with the new facility, which they described as sterile and unwelcoming.

Community feedback has been actively sought through various channels, including an online questionnaire that has garnered over 200 responses. A listening session is scheduled for April 28, focusing on teen programming rather than the future of the Old Firehouse building itself. The council plans to hold a study session on April 22 to discuss the building's issues and potential next steps, emphasizing a public process for determining its future.

In addition to the discussions about the teen center, the meeting also touched on broader community concerns, including housing development and homelessness. Residents urged the council to continue addressing the housing crisis with compassion and urgency, recognizing the need for supportive housing options.

As the council navigates these complex issues, the voices of the community, particularly the youth, remain a critical factor in shaping the future of Redmond's public spaces and services. The outcome of the upcoming meetings will likely have lasting implications for the community's youth and their access to safe, supportive environments.