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Mayor proclaims March as American Red Cross Month; volunteers speak at Issaquah meeting
Summary
Issaquah Mayor Mark Mullen proclaimed March 2026 American Red Cross Month and local Red Cross board members thanked the city for recognition, describing volunteer work, blood drives and local service; the council then heard public comments including support for Sound Transit and a childcare developer’s plea for fee relief.
Mayor Mark Mullen opened the March 2 City Council meeting and read a proclamation declaring March 2026 American Red Cross Month in Issaquah, praising the organization’s disaster response, blood donation work and support for military families.
Jen Sivetz, who identified herself as an Issaquah resident and a member of the King County Red Cross board, thanked the council for the proclamation and described local volunteer capacity. "Here in Issaquah, I'm proud to say that there are over 30 folks that are signed up as regular volunteers for the Red Cross," Sivetz said, and noted two volunteers who together have 60 years of service.
The meeting then moved to audience comments. Joe Kunzler, speaking virtually, said he was a longtime Sound Transit supporter and thanked Issaquah residents who recently went to Sound Transit headquarters in support of transit. Mahesh Rapaka, a resident and developer, asked the council to consider restoring a 100% traffic‑impact fee exemption for a proposed Building Kids childcare center, saying the impact fees for his proposed project are "approximately 400 k" and arguing an exemption would help serve infants, toddlers and low‑income families.
Why it matters: The Red Cross proclamation is ceremonial but underscores local volunteer capacity for disaster response and blood collection. Public comments signaled continuing local interest in regional transit and the affordability and feasibility of childcare projects — themes the council addressed later in the meeting.
The meeting continued with consent business and several substantive agenda items.
