The City of Vallejo will host the "Celebration and sustainability on Lake to Lake" event on May 16, 2025. The gathering will highlight sustainability and honor Pacific Islander Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Asian Americans through exhibitions and community activities.
A delegation from eight countries visited Bellevue and other Puget Sound cities to explore potential investments as part of the SelectUSA Seattle Spinoff. This initiative aims to attract global business investments to bolster the region's economy, highlighted by Bellevue's impressive annual GDP of $139 billion.
IMA opened new offices in downtown Bellevue last week, featuring a two-story space for staff and clients. The ribbon-cutting event celebrated the organization's transition from Parker, Smith & Feek.
The City Council of Bellevue discussed the early progress of the newly established Office of Housing, which aims to enhance affordable housing initiatives. The council also reviewed a proposed 2026 sewer rate increase from King County that could raise rates by 198% over the next 20 years, prompting concerns about affordability for residents. Newly appointed councilmember Vishal Bhargava was sworn in during the meeting.
Bellevue City Council seeks applicants to fill a vacancy on the Arts Commission, with a deadline for online applications set for May 23. The commission advises the council on cultural matters and supports local arts programs. The city encourages residents of diverse backgrounds to apply.
Bellevue received the 2025 Frank Chopp Public Sector Champion award for its commitment to affordable housing. The city launched an Office of Housing and updated its Comprehensive Plan to facilitate the construction of 35,000 homes over the next 20 years.
Bellevue celebrates National Drinking Water Week by hosting a water-smart table at City Hall on May 7. The event highlights the importance of clean drinking water and encourages residents to appreciate the infrastructure that delivers it. Bellevue Utilities Director Lucy Liu emphasizes the need to maintain water systems for future generations.
An 18-year-old motorcyclist died in a crash at a Bellevue intersection on Friday night. Witnesses reported the teen was speeding and collided with another vehicle, whose driver sustained injuries but is expected to recover. The Bellevue Police Department is investigating the incident to determine the cause.
Public health officials in Washington warn that despite warm weather, lake water temperatures remain dangerously cold, increasing drowning risks. In 2023, at least 30 preventable drownings occurred in the state. Experts emphasize the importance of caution, sobriety, and supervision while enjoying the water.
BellHop, a free shuttle service in Bellevue, won the 2025 Transportation Vision Award for its role in enhancing urban mobility. The service has provided nearly 115,000 rides since its launch in 2023, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 100 metric tons.
Councilmember Stokes received recognition for his contributions during a council meeting in Bellevue. The event took place on April 25, 2025, highlighting local governance and community engagement. Stokes' commendation underscores the importance of public service in local politics.
A King County rideshare driver, Martin Njoki, pleaded not guilty to charges of indecent liberties and unlawful imprisonment with sexual motivation after allegedly assaulting a 16-year-old passenger in Bellevue. The judge reduced his bail to $30,000 and mandated home detention if released. Njoki has no prior criminal history and is the primary provider for his family.
Bellevue's State of the City presentation, titled "Better Together," is set for April 24, 2025, at the Meydenbauer Center. Mayor Lynne Robinson will discuss key partnerships and the city's vision for the future. The event highlights Bellevue's collaborative efforts to enhance community engagement and development.
Bellevue Youth Link seeks high school-aged and adult candidates for its board for the 2025-2027 term. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on May 30, with board members attending two monthly meetings at City Hall. The board advises the City Manager’s Office on initiatives affecting Bellevue youth.
The City Council of Bellevue appointed Vishal Bhargava to fill the vacancy left by Councilmember John Stokes, who is stepping down to focus on family. The meeting also covered updates on the Wilburton land use amendment aimed at promoting sustainable development, as well as the Jubilee in the Community program that assists homeowners with property maintenance. Additionally, a proclamation was issued to celebrate Sikh Heritage Month, highlighting the significance of the Sikh community in the region.
The Bellevue Human Services Commission is set to conduct a hybrid public hearing on housing and human services needs on May 5, 2025. This event aims to gather community insights that will shape the 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) action plan, focusing on essential services for low- and moderate-income residents. Written comments will be accepted until noon on May 5, enhancing community engagement in the decision-making process.
A 20-year-old Bellevue man, A Blessing McDaniel, faces multiple charges after allegedly robbing victims he contacted through Facebook Marketplace. One victim reported that McDaniel threatened him with a rifle during a theft attempt. Police are investigating similar incidents linked to McDaniel across the region.
The Bellevue City Council appointed Vishal Bhargava to fill a vacant council seat left by John Stokes, who will resign on May 2 to focus on family. Bhargava is a community member and has served on the Planning Commission. His term will last until the November general election.
The City of Bellevue is inviting applications for a vacancy on its Planning Commission, aimed at residents who wish to influence local policy. Applicants must be Bellevue residents and can submit their applications online or through various other methods by April 29. The commission plays a crucial role in advising the City Council on land use regulations and the Comprehensive Plan.
A rideshare driver in King County, Martin Njoki, has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a 16-year-old passenger. The incident occurred during a ride in Bellevue, where Njoki is accused of making sexual advances and locking the passenger door. He is currently held on $150,000 bail, with police urging any other potential victims to come forward.