Redmond Council hears public comments after Fields withdraws teen center reopening motion

The Redmond City Council meeting on May 20, 2025, featured a public comment session and a significant discussion regarding the potential reopening of the local teen center.

During the meeting, Mayor Birney opened the floor for public comments, reminding attendees that they would have three minutes each to speak. He emphasized that comments should focus on city business and that council members would not respond directly during the meeting. A total of 16 individuals signed up to address the council, including 13 in-person speakers and three participating online.

Council member Fields announced that he would not be making a motion to reopen the teen center, a topic he had previously committed to discussing. He cited substantial evidence from a recent executive session indicating that reopening the center would not be in the best interest of the community. Fields, who wore sunglasses due to recent eye surgery, expressed his regret over the decision.

The meeting proceeded with public comments, starting with speakers such as Marcus Charles, Max Roman, Audrey Guidi, and Faith Otter.

This meeting highlighted the council's ongoing engagement with community concerns while also reflecting the complexities involved in decision-making regarding local facilities. The council's next steps regarding the teen center and other community issues remain to be seen as they continue to gather public input.