The Kent City Council and Committee of the Whole covered significant ground during their Tuesday, Aug. 4 meeting, taking steps to shape the city’s future, support community needs, and secure municipal operations.
Highlights from the session included the unanimous approval of the 20-year “Rediscover Downtown Kent Plan” to drive local growth, the recognition of Officer Brian Cortinas as the August Employee of the Month for his outstanding service and fundraising efforts, and the successful renewal of a three-year contract with city employees represented by AFSCME Local 2617.
Rediscover Downtown Kent Plan Approved
During the Committee of the Whole, the council unanimously approved the new Rediscover Downtown Kent Plan. The plan provides a 20-year roadmap for the creation of a more vibrant and resilient downtown. Approval of this plan helps to maintain the downtown area’s status as a Regional Growth Center, which is important for qualifying for transportation funding opportunities. For more information on the plan, see the above link.
August Employee of the Month
Officer Brian Cortinas was named August Employee of the Month. According to Mayor Dana Ralph, Officer Cortinas joined the Kent Police Department in January of 2015. Recently, Cortinas came up with an idea to raise money for partner organization BlueBridge Alliance. BlueBridge provides prepaid debit cards to officers, which can be used to pay for services needed by community members in crisis. For more information on the organization, see above link.
Officer Cortinas came up with the idea of a Battle of the Badges golf tournament, and then he spent the next year organizing the event and raising funds. The tournament took place last May, with robust participation from officers who said it was incredibly well-organized. The event raised $56,000 for BlueBridge.
Chief Rafael Padilla added that beyond this fundraising event, Officer Brian Cortinas has been an excellent employee. He has also been awarded the Chief’s Award for Professional Excellence, after successfully revamping the hiring and recruiting process. Chief Padilla said Cortinas is a great ambassador, helping to solve problems and making a meaningful impact in the community.
Union Contract Renewal
After a closed session, the council unanimously approved a three year contract with the city employees union, AFSCME Local 2617. This follows months of negotiations. The new contract will last through December 2028.
