The Kent City Council meeting on Tuesday night, Sept. 17, 2024, kicked off with a series of proclamations honoring various individuals and causes. From recognizing the sacrifices made by those who fought for the U.S. Constitution to highlighting the importance of diaper access for families and promoting safer transportation, the council acknowledged a diverse range of community initiatives and achievements.
Additionally, the meeting featured updates on local events and a public safety report.
Proclamations
The meeting began with four proclamations honoring Constitution Week, National Diaper Need Awareness Week, a Week Without Driving, and Jaleen Roberts, a 2024 Paralympic Medalist.
Constitution Week, Sept. 17–23, was started in 1956, after petition to Congress by the Daughters of the American Revolution. The aim of Constitution Week is to encourage the study of the historical events that led to the framing of the Constitution, which forms the basis for our nation’s laws.
National Diaper Need Awareness Week runs Sept. 23–29, and was launched in 2012 in order to ensure that all babies have the basic necessities. Many communities hold diaper drives to collect diapers and raise money for family essentials.
Sept. 30 through Oct. 6 is the Week Without Driving. This is meant to be an annual challenge for those who normally drive everywhere, to get around without using a car. Currently, ⅓ of Americans don’t have the use of a car, and participating in this challenge helps those who do drive to appreciate what it’s like to get places by bus, bike, walking, and other alternative transportation methods. The end goal is to help create communities that are safer for all forms of transportation.
Kent’s own Jaleen Roberts is a Paralympic medalist. Roberts grew up in Kent, participating in youth sports in the community, like soccer and t-ball. She competed for Team USA in the Paralympics Track & Field events in 2020 & 2024, and is a four-time medalist.
Community Events
Torklift Central is partnering with Kent United Methodist Church for their 12th Annual Turkey Challenge. This event aims to raise $20,000, and 10,000 lbs of food to support the Kent Food Bank during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. Businesses and schools can sign up to raise funds and collect food for the challenge; details at the above link.
Hogan Park will host free recycling events for Kent residents. The first is a mini-recycling event, on Friday, Sept. 20 from 9 a.m. to Noon. Mini-recycling events focus on collecting old electronics and paint, and document shredding. There will be a larger-scale recycling event at the park on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a much longer list of items community members may bring for free recycling. See link for details.
Public Safety Report
Deputy Police Chief Matt Stansfield gave this month’s public safety report. He awarded Officer Patrick Baughman the Chief’s Award for Professional Excellence, for Baughman’s stalwart determination to bring justice to a criminal wanted for assault and robbery.
In addition, three Kent girls were recognized with plaques for their role in preventing the abduction of a young child on July 16. The three girls played a pivotal role in confronting the attempted kidnapper. They took a video of him as he tried to abduct a child, and refused to let him abscond in peace. Police were soon on the scene, but it may have been too late if not for the intervention of these brave girls who would not let a kidnapper have his way.