Published October 13 2015
Also, update on building development activity
On Monday at an extended study session the City Council was given an update on the city's Diversity Advantage Initiative. The presentation, led by the newly formed Diversity Team, discussed ongoing efforts to make Bellevue a more "culturally competent" city. Team members highlighted progress on a number of fronts including community outreach, improving ADA and language accessibility on the city's website, working on citywide cultural competence training and advancing recruitment strategies for city staff to better reflect the larger community.
Bellevue's Diversity Plan was adopted by the council in late 2014 after a multi-year planning and public outreach process. The plan is a proactive effort to adapt to the rapid demographic changes throughout the city. It includes a number of new policies for city government and the community to implement over time. Throughout the presentation, councilmembers reiterated the necessity of the diversity initiative.
The diversity team recently hired to spearhead the project includes one diversity and inclusion program administrator, a diversity outreach and engagement administrator, and an ADA Title IV administrator. The adopted plan complements the council's 20-year vision for the city which states: "Bellevue welcomes the world. Diversity is our strength."
Building boom in Bellevue
Later, Development Services staff briefed the council on the high level of building activity throughout the city. Continued growth is forecast in the development market over the next 18 months. Currently, permit activity in 2015 rivals the previous peak set in 2007.
The building boom is reflected in Bellevue's skyline, which now includes nine cranes. Major projects range from mixed-use high-rises and apartment complexes to retail centers and elementary schools.
Staff also discussed the department's significant investments in technology to streamline the permitting process, increase efficiency and improve customer service. The paperless permitting system, adopted regionally as MyBuildingPermit.com, is now used by more than 65 percent of customers. Further, the new "mobile workforce" program allows field staff to post and access information via mobile devices anytime throughout the day.