In case you missed Monday’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.
Committee of the Whole Recap
We got an exciting update from the Planning Division on the Benson Hill Community Plan. Within the city, we have 10 community planning areas. Each plan captures the neighborhood's direct voice to shape the future. This effort involves several departments strategizing to grow the neighborhood through transportation, parks, business development, and overall quality of life.
Approved and adopted in 2013, the Benson Hill Community Plan heard from the community that they wanted to prioritize:
- Strengthening the Cascade Village
- Better sidewalks and pedestrian connections
- Traffic calming to improve safety
- More local businesses and restaurants
Since 2013, the city has delivered several improvements aligned with the plan, including:
- Updated zoning and business incentives and programming
- New mural off of 116th Ave. of the Benson Bruins Junior Football and Cheer League
- Street upgrades along 108th Ave.; expanding a five‑foot sidewalk with an eight‑foot sidewalk and planter strip to improve walkability and safety
These projects reflect ongoing progress as the city continues to put in place the community’s long‑term vision.
Council Meeting Recap
The council meeting kicked off with two proclamations recognizing Public Works Week and Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month.
During the audience comment the council heard several follow-ups from last weeks meeting. These included ALPR cameras, the moratorium on detention centers, street vacation, and the pause on the Legacy Square artwork.
There were additional comments mentioned including street safety around Sartori Elementary, term limits on elected officials, public comment process, and a request for a plaque and bench in honor of the Houston family.
After comments were completed, the mayor recapped what residents spoke to. He mentioned that public comment is an opportunity to speak to the council as a whole. He encourages residents to reach out to the council and himself directly to continue discussions either through in-person meetings or over email.
Several items were adopted regarding grants, salary adjustments, park designs, and security agreements.
Watch both meetings back at rentonwa.gov/youtube.