Kenmore residents voice concerns on city code and public works funding

The City Council of Kenmore, Washington, convened for a special and regular meeting on April 21, 2025, where public comments were solicited regarding recent changes to city codes and public works responsibilities. The meeting began with a public hearing, allowing residents three minutes each to voice their concerns.

Two speakers participated in the public hearing. The first, Patrick O'Brien, expressed strong opposition to the proposed changes in city code, criticizing the lack of transparency and the absence of a redline document that outlines current versus proposed regulations. O'Brien raised concerns about the enforcement of these codes, citing personal experiences with city officials and suggesting that the changes could unfairly target dissenting property owners. He emphasized that the city should take responsibility for maintaining vegetation along roads, a duty he argued was historically managed by King County before Kenmore's incorporation.

The second speaker, Stacy Valenzuela, echoed O'Brien's sentiments, calling for greater fairness and transparency in the public hearing process. She urged the council to ensure that public notices are clearly posted and sent to all residents well in advance of hearings, allowing adequate time for community feedback. Valenzuela questioned the effectiveness of the city's public works department, suggesting that taxpayer funds could be better allocated towards essential services, such as affordable housing, rather than maintaining public works facilities that do not seem to serve the community effectively.

The discussions highlighted significant community concerns regarding city governance, transparency, and the allocation of public resources. The council's next steps will likely involve addressing these issues raised by residents, as they continue to navigate the complexities of city management and community engagement.