Published on August 15, 2025
Did you know places like the Cedar River, neighborhood wetlands, and small pockets of trees around Renton do a lot more than look pretty? Even if there isn’t a sign, these natural spaces are important for everyone in our city. Here’s why they matter:
Washington's Growth Management Act (GMA) requires Renton and other cities to review and update their Critical Areas Ordinance to align with the best available science, in addition to aligning with the newest federal or state regulations.
A presentation and public hearing will be held during a Renton City Council meeting in September about the changes included in the ordinance. The ordinance needs to be adopted by the end of the year.
What questions do you have? Learn a little more about critical areas and ask us questions on the project website.
Want to chat in person? Find a staff member from the Community & Economic Development Department at the Renton Farmers Market on August 26 or September 2.
Explore Renton Farmers Market’s fresh finds and celebrate Senior Day next Tuesday, August 19.
In addition to the many vendors at the market:
Kids are always welcome at the market. Come check out the Kid’s Patch!
Remember, the Market also accepts payment through these food assistance programs:
Find the Renton Farmers Market every Tuesday, from 3 to 7 p.m. on Williams Avenue South through September 30.
During Monday’s city council meeting, Councilmember Carmen Rivera was awarded the Certificate of Municipal Leadership (CML) from the Association of Washington Cities (AWC). The certificate was presented by AWC board member, Councilmember Ed Prince.
The CML program recognizes city and town elected officials for accomplishing training in several core areas including legal requirements, roles, responsibilities, and ethics; budgeting and financial management; infrastructure, transportation, and land use; building safe, healthy, and thriving communities; and effective local leadership.
Councilmember Rivera joins the rest of her colleagues on Renton City Council in earning this certificate.
The full release is available on the city’s website.
Looking to grow your small business with expert guidance and a supportive network? Or perhaps you’re a founder preparing to raise capital for the first time.
The 15-week S425 Accelerator Program might be what you’re looking for and applications for the program’s third cohort are now open!
The program is FREE to anyone living or building their business in Renton (or select other cities).
Sessions run via Zoom on Tuesdays, 6 to 8 p.m. from September 2 to December 2. Orientation is Monday, September 1 at 6 p.m. Graduation is Tuesday, December 9.
Learn more and apply by August 29 at startup425.org/accelerator.
Join us at the Entrepreneurial Walk on Thursday, August 28, starting at the Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center and walking along Nishiwaki Boulevard. It’s an opportunity to get your questions answered, get inspired, connect, learn more, and get your steps in!
RSVP today at startup425.org/.
This program is made possible by Startup425, the Founder Institute, and the city’s Community & Economic Development Department.
Around Renton
The Renton Farmers Market has MOVED! Find the market at its new temporary location on Williams Avenue South between South Second Street and South Third Street. The market is open every Tuesday until September 30 from 3 – 7 p.m. rentonfarmersmarket.com
The 2026 Parks, Recreation, & Open Space Plan is looking for your feedback. Learn more and fill out the survey at rentonwa.gov/pros.
Renton City Council meets every Monday (excluding fifth Mondays and holidays) at 7 p.m. at Renton City Hall’s seventh floor council chambers. Find the agenda and sign up to speak at rentonwa.gov/council.
August 16 - Renton Artist Studio Tour, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Event headquarters at Perfect Fit Framing, 309 S. Third St. Hosted by Renton Municipal Arts Commission. Free.
August 28 - Entrepreneur Networking Walk, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N. Hosted by Startup425 and the Community & Economic Development Department. Free. RSVP here.
September 13 - Recycling Event: Styrofoam, Plastic Bags, Document Shred, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Renton Technical College Parking Lot #3, 3000 NE Fourth St. Hosted by the Public Works Department. Free.
Get the latest news from the City of Renton in your inbox.
Learn about what happens at Renton City Council meetings, plus get updates on capital projects, transportation improvements, city events, opportunities to provide feedback on upcoming projects and initiatives, and much more.
Have a story idea or comments? Email communications@rentonwa.gov.