Published December 12 2024
Plus, Economic Development Plan update launches and further work advances on affordable housing
The City Council Tuesday approved the purchase of a 12.2-acre parcel of land adjacent to the Coal Creek Natural Area at the south end of Bellevue. This purchase conserves a key connection in the Coal Creek and Cougar Mountain Regional Park corridor. It was made possible in part by a grant of $9.2 million through the King County Conservation Futures Fund and collaboration with the Trust for Public Land, a national nonprofit that works to create parks and protect public land.
“Collaboration with partners who have a shared recognition of the value of natural areas made this purchase possible,” said Mayor Lynne Robinson. “This property supports our connected network of open spaces that protect wildlife, provide wellness and draw people from around the region and beyond to our ‘city in a park’.”
“Thank you to the City of Bellevue for their bold actions to preserve this property and I am so proud King County could contribute funds to help acquire it,” said King County Councilmember Claudia Balducci.
“I was proud to support this once-in-a-generation opportunity to conserve our green space, fill in a critical wildlife corridor, and preserve local history while also adding more trails to one of our region’s most popular hiking destinations,” said King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn.
Acquisition of the property aligns with the city’s conservation goals of protecting the natural beauty, ecological function, historical and recreational value within the city.
Full details are available in the meeting materials.
Economic Development Plan Update launches
The council also kicked off Bellevue’s year-long process of updating its Economic Development Plan, aimed at reinforcing Bellevue’s position as the second-largest employment hub in the state and the cultural heart of the Eastside.
The council asked for emphasis on supporting small businesses and the creative economy, continuing to diversify Bellevue’s economy and leveraging international connections. Opportunities for community members to participate in the plan update process will extend through mid-2025, with the updated plan proposal to be presented to council late next year.
Under the current 2020-2025 plan, Bellevue saw retail sales grow by 16% and total employment increase by 3%. Key accomplishments included launching the Workforce Development Program, the BelRed Arts District Community Alliance and Startup 425’s Accelerator program. The city also implemented recommendations from a recent retail study and established a tourism promotion area.
The full council presentation can be viewed on replay through Bellevue Television.
Housing Opportunities in Mixed-Use Areas initiative
The council received an update on the Housing Opportunities in Mixed-Use Areas initiative, part of the “Next Right Work” housing strategy to preserve and create more affordable housing opportunities in the city. Proposed changes include increasing residential density in targeted mixed-use zones in Bellevue, aligning zoning with the city’s updated Comprehensive Plan and expanding affordable housing options. The adjustments aim to enhance housing production and respond to evolving community needs.
At least six public information sessions will be held to provide information to the Bellevue community and gather feedback on the HOMA initiative. In early 2025, the Planning Commission will have the first of several study sessions on this initiative with council action anticipated later next year.
Additional details are available in the meeting materials.
City prepares for winter weather
Transportation staff delivered an update on the city’s preparations for winter weather. This year is forecasted to be a La Niña year, bringing wetter weather and stronger winds. The city’s response to winter weather involves multiple departments. Staff highlighted the winter weather response map which provides information on the progress of snow and ice response efforts during winter weather conditions.
Library Advisory Board commended
The council issued a commendation honoring the work of the Bellevue Library Advisory Board. The board “has served with distinction…ensuring high standards and accessibility for all.” The board recently concluded its service as a city board given similar services provided by the King County Library System.
The council will be on winter recess through the end of the year. It will meet next on Tuesday, Jan. 7.