In case you missed this week's Committee of the Whole (COW) or Council meeting, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a quick recap of the conversations shaping our community.
The Committee of the Whole spent the evening looking ahead to the future of our parks system. We walked through the vision for a new 24‑acre natural park in south Renton, guided by the Cleveland‑Richardson Park Master Plan. Over the past year, you shared that you wanted a natural space with trails and walkable access, and this plan reflects exactly that. Council adopted the plan later that night, moving us one step closer to bringing this community space to life. Up next for the project: securing funding for the design, permitting, and construction.
Council also revisited the idea of a Parks Bond. In March, members reviewed six potential approaches for how a bond could support long‑term investments in our parks system. This week’s discussion centered on questions and suggestions from the council. Staff presented an alternative strategy that would not raise taxes, prepare projects to be “shovel‑ready,” and provide clearer construction cost estimates. Staff will provide additional information and solutions for council consideration.
The council meeting kicked off with two proclamations. The city recognized National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week and Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. Both were important acknowledgments of the people and partners who help keep our community safe. Public comments focused on a street vacation on Tobin, a small business owner seeking acknowledgment from the city for giving back to the community, questions about business taxes, and appreciation for the Renton Police Department’s response during a recent domestic violence incident.
Council approved several agreements supporting staff positions, facility improvements, and grant programs.
Council also approved the Cleveland‑Richardson Park Master Plan and waived fees for the Willowcrest Phase II project—these actions expand access to public spaces and support affordable housing across our city.
The council adopted an ordinance establishing the 2025 and 2026 Solid Waste Collection Service rates. Along with zoning changes that open the door to new and dynamic opportunities for indoor recreation facilities.
There was a motion on the floor by Councilmember Rivera to have staff draft an ordinance on term limits for elected officials, after discussion, the motion did not pass.
Looking ahead, the April 20 meetings will cover topics such as the 2026 legislative session, update on Renton Police Department Community Engagement, and a street vacation for Renton Regional Fire Authority.
To watch the April 13, 2026, Committee of the Whole or Council Meeting, visit rentonwa.gov/youtube.