The Kent City Council meeting held on Tuesday night, July 2, 2024, recognized an outstanding city employee and community events.
The Council presented a proclamation highlighting the importance of Parks and Recreation Month and shared the various free events happening throughout July.
Additionally, details on the Cornucopia Days 5K and a new event, Salsa in the Streets, were announced.
Public comments addressed parking concerns near Lake Meridian Park and the need for housing assistance for refugees.
Finally, the Council reminded residents about the fireworks ban and invited them to the Fourth of July Splash celebration with a free fireworks display.
Employee Of The Month
Every month Kent employees choose an outstanding coworker to be Employee of the Month, and Netisha Slater was chosen by her peers for the month of July. She was originally hired in 2018 as an Environmental Specialist, and last February she moved into her current position as Conservation Coordinator. She was picked for the award because she consistently goes above and beyond in customer service, she uses strong critical thinking skills to enhance efficiency, and she is always the first to volunteer for any task. Slater loves her job and is always happy to lend a hand to others.
Proclamation For Parks & Recreation Month
Parks & Recreation programs build healthy communities, and they help to establish and maintain a high quality of life in the city. According to the proclamation, they improve the economic as well as ecological vitality of the region, stewarding our natural resources for present and future residents. In addition, Parks & Rec programming provides jobs for people of all ages. Parks programs celebrate diversity and provide a gathering space for community events.
To celebrate the month, Kent Parks & Rec is hosting four events on Wednesdays in July. The free events include making Friendship Bracelets, a Kick It With Kent Parks challenge to win free soccer balls, Popsicles in the Park, and a Royal Friendship Party. Each event runs from 11am to 1pm, and details can be found on the Kent Events Calendar.
Cornucopia Days 5K & Salsa In The Streets
On July 13th there will be a Cornucopia Days 5K for walkers and runners alike. The race begins at 9 am, starting at Three Friends Fishing Hole and running along the flat and smooth Green River Trail.
Later that same day, from 2 to 7 p.m., is a first-time event called Salsa in the Streets. This free celebration at Titus Railroad Park is open to dancers of all ages, and features live music, as well as food, drinks, and vendors. More details and free registration information are available at the above link.
Public Comments
A neighbor of Lake Meridian Park asked for a solution for parking issues in the area. He said his residential street gets treated as overflow parking for the beach park. It has gotten so bad, he said, that he is worried a fire truck wouldn’t be able to maneuver down his narrow street. He asked Council to consider limiting parking on his street to residents 24 hours a day.
Another commenter asked the city to “live up to American standards” and provide housing for the hundreds of refugees still camped on county property. He said it is within Kent’s power to tear up their contract with the county, allowing the county to utilize the hotel for refugee housing.
Fireworks Ban & Display
Council wanted to remind the community that no private fireworks are allowed in Kent, but all are welcome to come enjoy a free fireworks show at Lake Meridian Park. The Fourth of July Splash will begin at 5 p.m. and end after the fireworks show, which begins at 10 p.m. Shuttles to the park will be running, and no parking is available on site.
