Our Renton

October 2025

Stormwater Superheroes

Protecting salmon, streams, and wildlife together

IN RENTON, we protect our drinking water sources—but what about the many other bodies of water throughout the city? How are these waters protected? When rain falls, it has to go somewhere. It often flows from roofs to driveways, sidewalks, and streets; then into the marked storm drains you see around your neighborhood. Rainwater running on these surfaces is called stormwater runoff. Stormwater runoff ends up in rivers, creeks, and lakes or to groundwater aquifers. The City of Renton’s Stormwater Management Division is crucial in managing stormwater to prevent contaminants from harming water quality and fish habitats. Through ongoing maintenance, programs, policies, and construction projects, they work to protect our community, wildlife, and waterways from pollution.

As we enter the heavy rainfall season—which lasts for the next six months or more—it’s a great time to learn about the programs and resources the city offers, plus easy, everyday actions you can take to help preserve our precious water resources.

What is stormwater management?

Prevents roads and private property from flooding during heavy rainfall
Protects aquatic species
Protects streams, ponds, and lakes while allowing for continued recreational use
Reduces pollutants that come from stormwater flowing on streets, parking lots, playfields, and rooftops

Educate yourself!

Check out the city’s 2025 Stormwater Management Plan at rentonwa.gov/npdes. The plan collected public input in March and then finalized at the end of May 2025. The plan is updated every year.
Salmon SEEson: The Seattle Aquarium hosts their Cedar River Salmon Journey series every weekend in October from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find them outside the Renton Library and at Cedar River Park and Riverview Park. Dates and locations are listed at seattleaquarium.org/crsj
Renton residents contribute to sustaining this essential Stormwater Management program by paying surface water utility fees. These fees fund the cleaning and maintenance of our stormwater systems, reduce pollution in our creeks and rivers, and support projects that help prevent flooding, fix drainage problems, and restore fish habitats. These small efforts are important and make an impact is on Renton’s well-being. For more resources and to ask questions, visit rentonwa.gov/stormwater.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Check for car leaks and address them immediately. Recycle used motor oil and filters at several Renton Autozone and O’Reilly locations. Learn more at rentonwa.gov/shiftgreen.
Go to car washes instead of washing your car at home.
Clear leaves and debris from stormwater drains. Remember, “only rain down the drain!”
Dispose of household hazardous waste properly. Find locations and resources at rentonwa.gov/recyclingservices.
Use safe, non-toxic solutions to manage plant problems and utilize natural yard care practices.
Pick up and dispose of pet waste. It is not fertilizer and can flow into streams, rivers, and lakes contaminating the water.
See a spill? Call 425-430-7400 to report it, or call 911 if the spill is a hazardous material.
Don’t feed wildlife. It can cause overcrowding and lead to contaminated water from excessive droppings.

Beware of Scams Uptick in garage thefts

Always shut and lock your garage doors to prevent opportunistic theft, even when you’re at home. Also, avoid leaving valuables in the garage and store them indoors. Don’t give thieves a reason to visit your home.

Finance Department receives the State Auditors Stewardship Award

THE CITY OF RENTON’S FINANCE DEPARTMENT received the State Auditor’s Stewardship Award (SASA) from the Washington State Auditor’s Office for its outstanding efforts in promoting government accountability and transparency. During the September 8 council meeting, State Auditor Pat McCarthy, Kelly Collins, Deputy State Auditor, Wendy Choi, Assistant Director of Local Audit, and Paul Griswold, Audit Manager presented the award to the City of Renton’s Finance Department.

Discover more about the award and the dedicated efforts of the city’s Finance Department in effectively managing and utilizing the city’s budget at rentonwa.gov/sasa.

Community Calendar

For info go to rentonwa.gov/calendar unless otherwise noted.

Scout Night

OCT 7, Tuesday, 6-8pm Fire Station 14, 1900 Lind Ave SE K-5th scouts AND non-scouts: enjoy an interactive evening with Renton Regional Fire, Renton Police, and others. Register at rentonrfa.com/scoutnight.

Truck-or-Treat

OCT 24, Friday, 5-7:30 p.m. Renton Community Center 1715 Maple Valley Hwy Trick-or-Treat from decorated trucks and festive stations filled with candy! Register at rentonwa.gov/register:

5-5:45pm: Sensory-Friendly Stroll #27686
6:15-7:30pm: Walk-Thru Spooktacular #27687

Senior Holiday Craft Bazaar

OCT 25, Saturday, 9am-3pm Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N. Shop for handcrafted arts, crafts, gifts, and more—all made by seniors.

Halloween Costume Contest

OCT 25, Saturday, 1-4 p.m. Cugini Florists parking lot, 413 S 3rd St. This contest is sure to be a spooktacular celebration of community. Held during the Olde Fashioned Halloween Party in downtown Renton. Prizes for you and your pets. rentonwa.gov/rmac.