Residents criticize Renton Council over gun violence proclamation and transparency issues

The Renton City Council convened on June 2, 2025, to address various community concerns and proposals. The meeting featured public comments that highlighted significant issues affecting residents, including traffic safety, gun violence prevention, and community engagement.

The session began with a resident expressing frustration over the lack of traffic safety measures at the intersection of Logan and Third. The speaker criticized the city’s decision to allocate funds towards a new pavilion event center, arguing that existing facilities were sufficient and that taxpayer dollars should instead focus on enhancing safety for residents. The speaker indicated plans to protest at the intersection to draw attention to these concerns.

Following this, Ian Taylor, a member of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, addressed the council regarding the city’s failure to proclaim Gun Violence Awareness Month. Taylor detailed the timeline of requests made by the local group, emphasizing the disappointment over the lack of communication from the city regarding the rejection of their proclamation request. He acknowledged a related event scheduled for June 4, which would provide gun lockboxes to the community, expressing hope for more initiatives aimed at reducing gun violence.

John Henson also spoke, voicing his disappointment with the council's responsiveness to community needs. He referenced a state bill that had received unanimous support but criticized the delay in communication from the city regarding related matters. Henson expressed a sense of neglect felt by his community, urging the council to demonstrate empathy and commitment to all residents.

The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement and responsiveness from city officials, with residents calling for more attention to pressing issues such as traffic safety and gun violence prevention. The council acknowledged the need for improved communication and pledged to address these concerns moving forward.