Renton residents urge clearer city communication, cite nuisance property; caller proposes pilot for ‘smart disposal’

Several Renton residents used the audience-comment period to press the city for clearer communication about an ongoing problem property near 5th and Park and to propose changes to solid-waste billing.

Nora Schultz, who identified herself as a nearby property owner, said she and neighbors have repeatedly asked the city for help at the 5th and Park site and feel they have not received timely communication. Schultz said trespassing signs and fencing had been installed but that the fence had holes and remained ineffective, that the banner removed quickly, and that people in the area are afraid to be out after dark. She said the lack of communication and visible enforcement harms landlords and tenants.

Cheryl Fries told the council she had applied to the Renton Civic Academy and urged the city to communicate more consistently with residents so they feel heard. Ben Johnson and other public speakers asked for broad but non-confidential updates about how the city handles problem properties, acknowledging that some details may be limited by legal confidentiality or pending executive-session matters.

Council and staff responses noted action was being taken. Council President Alverson acknowledged communication gaps and said staff and elected officials would try to provide clearer updates while avoiding statements that could jeopardize legal or investigative steps. Council Member Rivera said the Renton Police Department had directed a direct-enforcement team to actively monitor the site and issue citations and, where appropriate, criminally charge those who enter the property; residents were urged to call 911 when they see incidents.

During the public comment period Paul Quinn proposed a “smart disposal” pilot to charge residents for disposal based on the weight of material collected and to mail individualized diversion postcards showing each household’s diversion rate and comparing it with neighbors. Quinn provided a cost estimate for a proof-of-concept at about $50,000 and urged the council to consider a pilot to encourage recycling and composting and to provide “fair pricing” tied to waste generated.

Diane Dobson praised city staff and urged the city attorney to review RCW 4.24.795 (House Bill 1335, 2023) regarding disclosure of personally identifiable information; she also suggested the council reexamine a code of conduct for elected officials and commissioners. Gabriel (Gabe) Jones, an equity commissioner, called for less politicization of city initiatives and said he was eager to work with council members to advance nonpartisan change.

No council action was taken on proposals at the meeting; comments were received during the audience-comment period.