News Flash

On February 24, 2026, the North Bend City Council will hold a Council Workstudy on the Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA) with Related NW for the 230 Main Affordable Housing Project. 

Originally scheduled for consideration at the February 3, 2026 City Council meeting, the Council decided further discussion is required on account of new funding information recently provided by the Washington State Department of Commerce, and potential city staff recommendations to address parking around 230 Main Avenue North.

With that, the Council will not be considering the DDA on February 3, 2026.

230 Main Avenue North: land purchased for the use of affordable housing 

In November 2023, the Council approved the purchase and sale agreement of a 0.4-acre parcel of land for local affordable housing, with Real Estate Excise Tax (REET 2) funds secured solely for this purpose (RCW 82.46.035). In addition to helping ease the workforce shortage among North Bend businesses, goals for the project include: 

• Establishing long-term housing affordability for local workers making no more than 60% of King County median income 
• Serving as a model for innovative affordable housing 
• Demonstrating the city’s commitment to meet its Economic Development and Housing Action Plan elements of the Comprehensive Plan 
• Utilizing creativity and innovation to establish the project  

On November 5, 2025, community joined the Planning Commission and city staff for a Public Hearing to provide comment on the proposed DDA. The intent of the DDA is to ensure financial support from the city for the project and to approve code deviations identified by the applicant as essential for moving the project forward. 

Residents are invited to attend Council Workstudy meetings in person or by teleconference. In keeping with past Workstudy practices, the public is not permitted to provide comment at Workstudy meetings. The February 24, 2026 Workstudy Agenda and teleconference link will be published by Thursday, February 19, 2026. It will be located in the Document Center, at www.northbendwa.gov/Archive.aspx. 

The City of North Bend, the City of Snoqualmie, and the Snoqualmie Police Department that serves both cities are committed to serving and protecting all members of our community regardless of immigration status. 

Both Washington Law (Keep Washington Working Act) and Snoqualmie Police Department Policy prohibit our officers from assisting U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) or any other federal law enforcement entity engaged in federal immigration enforcement. Federal immigration enforcement is not the function of local law enforcement and local officers are prohibited from acting based on a person’s immigration status. 

Officers will not ask about your immigration status during an investigation, whether you are a victim or a suspect. 

Should anyone in our communities observe a situation that creates public safety concerns, please call 911 and report it. The Snoqualmie Police Department will respond to ensure public safety, keeping in mind that ICE’s authority arises under federal law. 

Mayor Mary Miller, Mayor James Mayhew, and Interim Police Chief Gary Horejsi remain dedicated to protecting and serving all members of our diverse communities.

On Wednesday, January 28, Mayor Mary Miller invites residents to join her for casual, community-focused conversations with the city’s Meet Up with Mayor Miller event.

Stop by Arete’s location at The Line Experience between 9 and 10 a.m. for your favorite winter beverage or snack and enjoy getting to know your mayor while discussing city-related topics that are important to you. Whether you are curious about upcoming projects, or simply looking to connect over coffee, Mayor Miller welcomes this opportunity for open conversation and shared ideas.

Arete at The Line is located at 1130 E North Bend Way.

As shared by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), the westbound Interstate 90 off-ramp to State Route 18 will close from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, January 17, to repair potholes and repave portions of the ramp near Snoqualmie. 

A signed detour will direct drivers to use westbound I-90 and loop around at Southeast High Point Way (exit 20) returning eastbound on I-90 to the exit to SR 18 and Snoqualmie Parkway. People driving in the area should expect delays and increased traffic along the detour route and should plan ahead and use alternate routes or allow extra time to travel to their destination. 

This work needs dry weather and may be rescheduled. 

Improving traffic flow and safety

The I-90/SR 18 Interchange Improvements project built a diverging diamond interchange and widened SR 18 to two lanes in each direction between I-90 and Deep Creek to help improve traffic flow and safety through the busy corridor. 

The project is expected to finish in mid-2026. Crews will place a top layer of asphalt and install permanent lane striping along the widened section of SR 18, through the diverging diamond and on the I-90 on- and off-ramps once weather dries and warms next spring.

Real-time travel information is available via the WSDOT mobile app, the WSDOT Travel Center Map or by signing up for WSDOT's email updates.

City of North Bend officials and staff were saddened to learn that local resident, Paul Markoff, and Snoqualmie Pass resident, Erik Henne, were killed in an avalanche in Kittitas County, near Longs Pass, on Friday, January 9.

“It is with a heavy heart that we extend our condolences to the Markoff and the Henne families, their friends, and our community at large,” said North Bend Mayor Mary Miller.

As shared by the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office, two survivors, Ian Laing and Patrick Leslie, were able to send a distress call using a Garmin satellite device when the incident occurred. Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Kittitas County Search & Rescue (KCSR) volunteers responded.

Responders reached the remote area using snowmobiles and winter backcountry equipment and transported the two survivors out that evening. Due to hazardous conditions, a nighttime recovery operation for the deceased was not conducted.

On Saturday morning, January 10, teams returned with three trained avalanche search K9s. Because of the rugged, remote terrain, air support was requested. King County’s Guardian 2 helicopter assisted by airlifting the two deceased men to a search base, where they were placed in the care of the Kittitas County Coroner’s Office.

The ground team also recovered the men’s personal effects, including the two snowmobiles used by the party. Representatives of the Northwest Avalanche Center came to the scene to assist in analyzing the accident.

Resident Paul Markoff was a member of King County Explorer Search and Rescue (ESAR), a ground search and rescue resource in King County and the largest of nine member-units of the King County Search and Rescue Association.

This last summer, the city began work on a new infrastructure and pedestrian connectivity project in the Old Silver Creek neighborhood, located along 5^th Street, 6^th Street and a portion of Main Avenue. Due to exceedingly wet conditions this winter, crews from Ryatt Construction are pausing work, with plans to finish in the spring.

Once complete, 5^th Street, 6^th Street and a portion of Main Avenue will have curb, gutter, sidewalk and a new watermain. Nuisance flooding will be fixed with the addition of drainage swales, stormwater catch basins and a storm pipe network. Additionally, a portion of Main Avenue near the intersection with the Snoqualmie Valley Trail will be lowered to increase sight distance and enhance pedestrian safety. 

This winter, the watermain project wrapped up, with all residents successfully hooked up to new, longer lifespan ductile iron water pipes and valves, improving fire flow and water reliability.

Approximately 75 percent of the new storm system is complete, and crews look forward to finishing that installation, following up with grading that will provide for curb, gutter, sidewalk and more. 

For questions or concerns, please reach out to Mike Mayen, Project Engineer, at mmayen@northbendwa.gov. 

Want to stay in the know on local transportation projects and other city updates? Notify Me is a free, online subscription tool featured on the City of North Bend’s website, https://northbendwa.gov/list.aspx. The opt-in service allows you to subscribe to a range of topics, so that you can pick and choose subjects for notification that you care about most. 

The City of North Bend welcomes three councilmembers – one newly elected and two reelected – to the City Council this year.

Oaths of Office were administered to returning councilmembers Mark Joselyn, Position No. 6, and Errol Tremolada, Position No. 4, at the December 2, 2025 City Council meeting. Councilmember Joselyn began serving in 2022, and in 2025, he served as Mayor Pro Tem. Councilmember Tremolada began serving in 2023.

Newly elected Councilmember Rob McFarland took his Oath of Office on December 29, 2025. Mr. McFarland previously served as North Bend’s mayor from 2020 to 2024. His term as a councilmember, Position No. 2, began January 1, 2026.

“As elected officials, community is at the core of every decision we make. It requires a whole lot of time, collaboration, and passion for public service,” Mayor Miller said. “On behalf of myself and city staff, we look forward to these new and continued partnerships in 2026.”

Councilmember Tremolada was selected by his peers to serve as the 2026 Mayor Pro Tem. As Mayor Pro Tem, he will coordinate with the administration, setting the agenda for monthly Workstudy sessions, support the Council’s standing committees in a variety of ways, and he will serve in the absence of the mayor.

“Thank you to my colleagues for your trust,” he said during the December 2 City Council meeting. “I have a very good working relationship with all of you, and I look forward to taking on this role.”

The Council, Mayor Miller and city staff met for the first City Council meeting of the year on Tuesday, January 6. Watch a recording of the January 6, 2026 Council meeting by visiting the city’s YouTube page or viewing it at www.northbendwa.gov/civicmedia.

Pictured, below: Mayor Pro Tem Errol Tremolada and Mayor Miller, Councilmember Rob McFarland and City Clerk Susie Oppedal, and Mayor Miller administering the Oath of Office to Councilmember Mark Jocelyn.

Mayor Mary Miller proclaimed January as National Mentoring Month in North Bend at the January 6, 2026 City Council meeting. Youth Success Mentoring Coordinator, Kathy Hyland, and Youth Success Mentor, Michael Rosenow, were present to accept the proclamation. 

Mayor Miller encourages those interested in becoming a youth mentor to contact Empower Youth Network, and be sure to thank current youth mentors for devoting their time and effort to ensure the success of our youth. 

Here are a few ways you can support mentoring programs in Snoqualmie Valley:

• Join a mentoring program, such as Youth Success Mentoring, offered by the Empower Youth Network.
• Keep an eye out for mentoring programs that showcase career exploration and support workplace skills by helping young people set career goals.
• Once you join a mentoring program, show up! Youth who meet regularly with their mentors are 46 percent less likely than their peers to start using drugs and 27 percent less likely to start drinking.

Read Mayor Miller’s full National Mentoring Month Proclamation by visiting the Document Center. See her read her proclamation at the January 6, 2026 City Council meeting, by visiting the city’s YouTube page, or the Media Center on the City of North Bend’s website.

Pictured here: Youth Success Mentor, Michael Rosenow, Youth Success Mentoring Coordinator, Kathy Hyland, and North Bend Mayor Mary Miller at the January 6, 2026 City Council meeting.

In honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management, this winter, the Arbor Day Foundation recognized the City of North Bend as a Tree City USA for the 15^th consecutive year.

North Bend achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting each of the program’s four requirements: 

• A tree board or department 
• A tree care ordinance
• An annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita 
• An Arbor Day observance and proclamation. 

Local tree conservation is essential to our highly livable community, protected by North Bend Municipal Codes (NBMC) 19.10.091 through 19.10.095. The ordinances require the retention of a number of existing trees when sites are developed, describing tree protection areas and native restoration planting. Landscape regulations also require the planting of trees at these sites.

Learn about urban forestry by reading the Energy and Sustainability Element, an integral part of the city’s Comprehensive Plan. 

The Arbor Day Foundation is a million-member nonprofit conservation and education organization with a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. Together with the US Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters, there is a combined network of more than 3,600 Tree City USA communities. Learn more about the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree City USA program, at www.arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.

As winter weather makes it way to our mountain town, the City of North Bend reminds residents to be aware of city snowplow routes, as well as the steps you can take to assist Public Works crews when the snow begins to fall, and chances of ice increase.

To understand the order in which city streets are plowed, please see the 2025/2026 Snowplow Route Map which details Priority 1, 2, and 3 routes and priority access point locations. 

In consideration of public health and our environment, the city refrains from the heavy use of chemicals and geo-melts on our roadways. This is done out of caution for the Snoqualmie aquifer (located directly beneath many city roads), drinking water quality, and potential adverse impact on public health.

The city uses two de-icer materials: a sand/salt mix and Ice-Slicer. Crews closely monitor local weather systems and deploy the materials according to the Snow Removal Policy, which factors in cost, environmental impact, location, and public safety. Learn more about the De-Icer Program by viewing the   Snow Removal Policy.

Tips to keep City streets accessible for snowplows to ensure roads are cleared for motorists: 

• If possible, do not park your vehicle on the street or in your cul-de-sac. An empty street makes the passage of snowplows and sand spreaders much easier.
• Do not attempt to stop the plow truck operators. They follow specific routes and are under the direction of Public Works. If you find yourself behind a snowplow, slow down and give the plow a little extra room.
• Never shovel snow from sidewalks and driveways into the streets. The snowplows always push the snow to the side of the road. If you shovel snow into the street, it will be pushed back onto your driveway. Pushing the snow from your driveway onto the road will add to the pack on the roads, making a hazardous situation.
• Pile snow shoveled from your driveway on the right side facing the street. This reduces the chance of having the plow pile the snow over your driveway entrance after you have shoveled it out. Our drivers attempt to leave clear entrances to driveways whenever possible. This is not always possible following heavy snowfall.
• Please shovel any catch basins if they are in front of your home. Melting snow can drain into the storm system and this will reduce possible flooding and icing in the street as well as the chance of flooding on your property.
• Garbage cans and recycling should not be placed on the road. Keep them on the sidewalk and remove them as soon as possible following collection. 

A reminder for city residents: Recology King County, the City of North Bend’s garbage, recycling and yard waste collection service, observes federal holidays. Consequently, collection services scheduled during federal holidays get delayed by one day.

 Solid waste, recycling and yard waste services are closed for the following observed holidays:

• Martin Luther King, Jr: Monday, January 19, 2026
• Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 26, 2026
• Christmas: Thursday, December 25, 2025
• New Years Day: Thursday, January 1, 2026

We appreciate our community's cooperation and patience during holiday service closures. A helpful tool to plan for holiday closures while also viewing your collection schedule is to visit Recology’s Collection Calendar, at https://www.recology.com/recology-king-county/north-bend/collection-calendar/. Please check the Recology King County and North Bend Solid Waste and Recycling Services websites for additional information. Also, consider following Recology King County’s social media on Facebook for these and other updates.

Ways to connect directly with Recology:

• Call North Bend Customer Service, at (425) 448-6220
• Email North-Bend@recology.com
• Connect with Government and Community Relations Manager, Alissa Campbell, at acampbell@recology.com
• Stop by the Recology Store in Issaquah, located at 317 NW Gilman Blvd, #22
• Texting Recology, at (206) 369-8604

As shared by King County, two locations are available to unincorporated King County residents for free drop-off of storm debris on Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21, with additional locations available through January 11, 2026.

King County Solid Waste will open two temporary storm debris collection sites for residents and businesses in unincorporated areas. These temporary drop-off locations will operate on Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21 only, and will accept storm-related garbage and yard waste free of charge. Note: free disposal is only for self-haul customers. Third-party contractors must pay standard fees.

• Ravensdale temporary drop site Ravensdale Park, 27025 SE Kent Kangley Road Saturday, December 20 - Sunday, December 21 only 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Issaquah-Fall City temporary drop site31015 SE Issaquah-Fall City Road Saturday, December 20 - Sunday, December 21 only 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 What’s NOT accepted

 Due to site challenges, limited capacity, and regulatory requirements, the following items will not be accepted at drop-off locations:

• Major appliances
• Computers, monitors, and TVs
• Motor vehicles and major automotive parts
• Lithium, vehicle, or marine batteries
• Pressurized tanks (propane, helium, etc.)
• Sharps and medical waste
• Construction and demolition materials and waste that contains asbestos
• Fluorescent bulbs and tubes
• Oil-based paint
• Hazardous or dangerous waste
• Dead animals

Trailers will not be allowed at temporary drop-off sites.

Please bring ID and watch for staff members and flaggers who will guide you on where to unload. Staff members cannot help you unload items. Waste compliance staff members will be onsite to assist with questions about acceptable items.

Regular transfer stations offering free debris drop-off on weekends from December 20 through January 11

• Bow Lake Recycling and Transfer Station 18800 Orillia Road S, Tukwila Saturday and Sunday hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station 2300 N 165th Street, Shoreline Saturday and Sunday hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Enumclaw Recycling and Transfer Station 1650 Battersby Avenue E, Enumclaw Saturday and Sunday hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Find a full list of accepted items on the King County website

What’s not accepted, and what to do with it

All regular King County solid waste facilities will also be open during their normal weekday hours, when fees will be charged for disposal. Find locations, rates, and other information.

Managing hazardous waste

• If any hazardous products got wet or damaged, set them aside in a safe spot until you can bring them in for proper disposal.
• Do not open the containers or try to empty them. Leave the labels on so staff can tell what the product is.
• If something is leaking, place the whole container inside a sturdy bin or bucket to keep the mess contained.
• Keep everything away from kids and pets.
• When in doubt, stop and get guidance.
• If the label is gone or unreadable, treat the item as hazardous. Do not pour anything down storm drains, sinks or outside on the ground.

Reach out if you have any questions. Contact the King County Hazardous Waste team at haz.waste@kingcounty.gov or (206) 296‑4692.

The 6^th annual Light Up North Bend holiday lighting contest is now complete! Community judges, made up of North Bend Parks and Planning commissioners and the North Bend Downtown Foundation, spent the past week enjoying local light displays – some set to music in the VMA Division, some themed in the Hollywood Division, and some light explosions in the Griswold Division.

Thank you to all who entered the 2025 Light up North Bend contest for your creative and festive displays.  

Without further ado, the 2025 Light up North Bend winners are:

• Residential, VMA Division Winner: The Tran Home, 13008 409^th Ave SE
• Residential, Hollywood Division Winner: The Sundararaman Home, 1336 SE 16^th St
• Residential, Griswold Division Winner: The Marcell Home, 1000 Mountain View Blvd SE
• Business, Hollywood Division Winner: Fury Siteworks, 43504 SE North Bend Way
• Business, Griswold Division: The Daily Grind 12, 43030 SE North Bend Way

The neighborhood “most densely lit” award goes to Cedar Village, and judges also called out Cedar Landing for some great displays as well. 

According to our judges, there are many incredible displays throughout North Bend. We encourage those who drive by to check out this year’s participants also drive through the surrounding neighborhoods to see more beautiful displays.  

Watch the City’s Facebook, X, NextDoor and Instagram feeds this month for photos and videos of the winning displays. Enjoy your own Light Up North Bend tour of holiday lights now through December 25 by downloading the Light Up North Bend map.

Following the significant flood event this month, the City of North Bend, in collaboration with Recology King County, is working to assist residents who suffered severe flood damage and have an excess of demolition flood debris at their homes, businesses or nonprofits. 

If you live within city limits, and you have an excess of demolition flood debris, please call (425) 466-2991, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. 

The City of North Bend continues to engage with King County regarding demolition flood debris removal options for our neighbors and members of our greater community. We will share information about demolition flood debris removal for unincorporated King County residents as soon as this information is available.

A reminder: Recology King County will pick up extra yard waste debris this month – free of charge – above the regular service currently provided to city customers, beginning Wednesday, December 17. Learn more by reading the December 16 news release.

For hazardous waste removal, check King County’s Wastemobile webpage for updates on their 2026 collection schedule.

Thank you to the North Bend Public Works crew and Recology King County for making this community recovery outreach possible. 

As rain continues sporadically throughout Wednesday, December 17 and Thursday, December 18, the National Weather Service’s Flood Watch remains in effect for North Bend and many other communities in the Pacific Northwest.

As of December 17, at 10 a.m., most North Bend roads remain open, with one caution area, located at the intersection of Thrasher Avenue NE and NE 6^th Street. Please take care, as there is water over the roadway.

Additionally, the public Park and Ride located at 331 W North Bend Way remains closed.

North Bend’s Sandbag Center

The city collaborates with King County’s Flood Control District, and as a member, it serves as a Sandbag Center. Should you need it, stop by the Public Works Department, open weekdays, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

• Enter through the North Bend Way entrance, located at 1155 E North Bend Way
• Check in by visiting the Public Works Administration Building, located near the North Bend Way entrance to Public Works
• Please bring your own shovel
• You will need to fill bags yourself, but sand and bags are available free of charge

Additional curbside yard waste storm debris collection for residents this month

As a result of recent flooding events and windstorms, Recology King County will pick up extra debris this month – free of charge – above the regular service currently provided to city customers, beginning Wednesday, December 17. Learn how to participate by visiting the city’s December 16 news release.           

Public Works crews will continue maintaining drainage ditches, culverts, storm drains and roads. You can help prevent localized street flooding as well by keeping catch basins near your own property clear of debris. To report excessive debris and damage in public right-of-way, click the “Report An Issue” button on the city’s website, www.northbendwa.gov.

Be prepared for weather emergencies by signing up for King County ALERT, at www.kingcounty.gov/depts/emergency-management/alert-king-county.

As a result of recent flooding events and windstorms, Recology King County will pick up extra debris this month – free of charge – above the regular service currently provided to city customers, beginning Wednesday, December 17.

How City of North Bend Recology customers can participate

• For residents currently subscribed to food and yard waste collection service, on your next two regularly scheduled collection days for this service, you can place extra yard debris by your cart based on the following requirements:
  • Bundled together with twine
  • Placed in Kraft bags
  • Placed in your own can from home
• Clearly label this “Yard Debris”
• Each pickup can accept up to 96 additional gallons of containerized, bundled or bagged compostable storm debris

Recology can only accept compostable yard debris. Please do not place food scraps, recyclables, garbage (plastic bags, glass or metal) in the container with the debris. Construction material or trash of any other type will not be accepted for extra pickup.

Ways to connect directly with Recology:

• Call North Bend Customer Service, at (425) 448-6220
• Email North-Bend@recology.com
• Text Recology, at (206) 369-8604Stop by the Recology Store in Issaquah, located at 317 NW Gilman Blvd, #22
• Connect with Government and Community Relations Manager, Alissa Campbell, at acampbell@recology.com 

The City of North Bend remains fully committed to supporting residents and businesses impacted by recent weather events. 

If you have non-life-threatening questions or concerns about local emergency management, please reach out by emailing EM@northbendwa.gov. To report excessive debris and damage in public right-of-way, click the “Report an Issue” button on the city’s website, www.northbendwa.gov. 

On Wednesday, December 17, Mayor Mary Miller invites residents to join her for casual, community-focused conversations with the city’s Meet Up with the Mayor event.

Stop by Bread and Bone between 11 and 12 p.m. for your favorite winter beverage or snack and enjoy getting to know your mayor while discussing city-related topics that are important to you. Whether you are curious about upcoming projects, or simply looking to connect over coffee, Mayor Miller welcomes this opportunity for open conversation and shared ideas.

Bread and Bone is located at468 E North Bend Way.

To the residents of North Bend and the greater Snoqualmie Valley,

Over the past several days, our community has faced some of the most devastating and severe flooding events in recent memory. Homes were threatened, roads were washed out, routines were disrupted, and many of our neighbors experienced real fear and uncertainty. And yet, amidst this challenge, what rose higher than any river was the strength and compassion of our people.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to every volunteer who stepped forward without hesitation. You filled sandbags throughout the day and night, checked on neighbors, offered shelter, shared trucks and tools, and supported one another in ways large and small. Your actions saved property, protected families, and reminded us of what community truly means.  

To our dedicated North Bend city staff, first responders, police, and communications personnel - thank you for your tireless efforts. You worked around the clock, often in dangerous conditions, to keep our community safe, informed and supported. Your professionalism and commitment have been extraordinary.

I also want to acknowledge the remarkable collaboration we witnessed between local nonprofits, faith-based organizations, businesses, and community and social service organizations. Whether organizing volunteers, distributing supplies, or providing emergency assistance, your partnership has been invaluable. In times of crisis, it is this seamless coordination that ensures no one stands alone.

As we recover, I want to highlight one more essential part of our community: our local businesses. Many of them were impacted by the flooding, and they need our support now more than ever – especially during this holiday season. These businesses are the backbone of our local economy, the heart of our downtown and community, and employers, neighbors, and friends who help make North Bend and the Snoqualmie Valley vibrant and unique. I encourage everyone to shop local, dine local, and show our businesses the same generosity and care they demonstrate to our community all year long.

What we have seen this week is the very best of the Snoqualmie Valley: neighbors helping neighbors, organizations joining forces, and community rising together with resilience and heart. This is who we are.

As we continue recovery and cleanup efforts, please know that the City of North Bend remains fully committed to supporting every resident and business impacted by this flooding. We will do so with the same spirit of teamwork and compassion that has carried us through these difficult days.

Thank you, North Bend. Thank you, Snoqualmie Valley. Your strength, your kindness, and your unity shine brighter now than ever.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Mayor Mary Miller

Local human services affected by flooding in North Bend on Thursday, December 11

North Bend services that are currently impacted within the City of North Bend are as follows:

• Snoqualmie Valley School District: Schools are closed
• Snoqualmie Valley Health, North Bend Medical Clinic: closed
• Snoqualmie Valley Transit: closed
• Mt Si Senior Center: closed 
• Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank: closes at 12:45 p.m.
• Reclaim in Snoqualmie: closed but available by phone

The North Bend Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains partially activated. If you have information regarding unmarked flooded roads or have other non-emergency needs, you can reach out to the EOC:

• By phone, at (425) 888-7646 and (425) 888-7688 
• By email, at EM@northbendwa.gov 

As of Thursday, December 11, at 10:30 a.m., United States Geological Survey (USGS) gauges indicate that Snoqualmie River levels are dropping.

There continues to be no mandatory evacuations in place within the City of North Bend. The shelters located at Cascade Covenant Church and Twin Falls Middle School are officially closing to the public.

The North Bend Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains open. If you have information regarding unmarked flooded roads or have other non-emergency needs, you can reach out to the EOC:

• By phone, at (425) 888-7646 and (425) 888-7688
• By email, at EM@northbendwa.gov 

The City of North Bend thanks the many citizens who have spent numerous hours bagging sand here at the Sandbag Center, located at our Public Works Department! At this time, we do not need additional volunteer assistance.

North Bend Road Closures, as of December 11, at 10:30 a.m.

• SOFT CLOSURE: Mt. Si Boulevard, between Bendigo Blvd SW and South Fork Ave SW 
• CAUTION: W 4th St, between Bendigo Blvd N and Main Ave N 
• NW 8th St, from North Bend Way to SR 202/Bendigo Blvd
• Boalch Ave NW, near 1711 Boalch Ave NW
• CAUTION: Water over roadway on Ribary Way, east of Forster Woods entrance
• Cedar Ave S (Park St to Main Ave)
• SR 202, between 2^nd St and North Bend Way
• SR 202, at Park St

Safety reminders:

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Never drive through flooded roads
• Don’t drive into standing water; it’s often deeper than it appears and may hide washed-out or damaged pavement
• Respect road closure signs and barricades: They are in place to keep you safe
• Slow down and increase following distance: Heavy rain reduces both visibility and stopping time
• Our crews are out 24/7 responding to reports, closing unsafe areas, and clearing what they can as conditions allow

According to the National Weather Service, heavy rains will likely return in the late evening on Wednesday, December 10. River levels are anticipated to peak by 4 a.m. on Thursday, December 11.

While there are no mandatory evacuations in place as of 9 p.m. on December 10, Cascade Covenant Church will remain open throughout the night to shelter those who are worried about flood waters or actively affected by them.

Please feel free to stop by for a bit or stay the night! Volunteers look forward to seeing you. If you might stay the night, please do bring sleeping supplies. Cascade Covenant Church is located at 13225 436th Ave SE.

For more information about the shelters, please call the North Bend Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Also, if you have information regarding unmarked flooded roads or have other non-emergency needs, you can reach out to the EOC:

• By phone, at (425) 888-7688 and (425) 888-7646
• By email, at EM@northbendwa.gov 

Safety reminders:

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Never drive through flooded roads
• Don’t drive into standing water; it’s often deeper than it appears and may hide washed-out or damaged pavement
• Respect road closure signs and barricades: They are in place to keep you safe
• Slow down and increase following distance: Heavy rain reduces both visibility and stopping time
• Our crews are out 24/7 responding to reports, closing unsafe areas, and clearing what they can as conditions allow

On Wednesday, December 10, shelters opened at Twin Falls Middle School and Cascade Covenant Church, available to those displaced by flood waters.

Volunteers look forward to providing a dry, warm place to shelter for the night of December 10. Please bring your own food and sleeping supplies. 

Twin Falls Middle School is located at 46910 SE Middle Fork Road.

Cascade Covenant Church is located at 13225 436th Ave SE.

For more information about the shelters, please call the North Bend Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Also, if you have information regarding unmarked flooded roads or have other non-emergency needs, you can reach out to the EOC:

• By phone, at (425) 888-7688 and (425) 888-7646
• By email, at EM@northbendwa.gov 

Road Closure Update 

• Mt. Si Boulevard, between Bendigo Blvd SW and South Fork Ave SW is closed due to water over roadway
• CAUTION: W 4th St, between Bendigo Blvd N and Main Ave N
• Ballarat Ave NE & NE 12th St
• Pickett Ave NE, near 10th St
• Boalch Ave NW, near 1711 Boalch Ave NW
• CAUTION: Water over roadway on Ribary Way, east of Forster Woods entrance 
• By 5:30 PM: SR 202 at 14th St 
• By 5:30 PM: SR 202 at Park St and Bendigo
• Cedar Ave S (Park St to Main Ave)

As hazardous weather conditions continue throughout North Bend and much of the Pacific Northwest, road conditions are worsening as well, with road closures throughout North Bend and, as of approximately 2 p.m., a closure on EB I-90, between milepost 27 and milepost 32.

North Bend Mayor Mary Miller advises residents to stay home and stay safe. Please do not attempt to leave unless you feel unsafe in your home, or if you have a life-threatening emergency. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 9-1-1.

At approximately 12 p.m. on December 10, Mayor Miller issued a Proclamation of Emergency regarding severe storms and river flooding throughout our local communities. Read her Proclamation of Emergency HERE.

The City of North Bend Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is fully activated. If you have information regarding unmarked flooded roads or have other non-emergency needs, you can reach out to the EOC:

• By phone, at (425) 888-7688 and (425) 888-7646
• By email, at EM@northbendwa.gov 

Stay informed

• Learn about flood phases: www.kingcounty.gov/flood or call 1-800-945-9263
• Follow weather updates by checking the National Weather Service
• Sign up for King County Flood Warning notifications: King County Flood Alerts
• Sign up to receive City of North Bend Alerts
• Tune into the Emergency Radio Station at 1650 AM for recorded notices during severe emergencies
• Road closure updates are available on the King County website at https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/local-services/transit-transportation-roads/roads-and-bridges/road-closures. If you locate a road closure that is not reported on their map, please call their 24/7 Road Helpline, at (206) 477-8100 or toll-free at 1-800-527-6237

The North Bend City Hall, located at 920 SE Cedar Falls Way, is closing to the public at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. 

The City of North Bend Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is fully activated, and the North Bend Sandbag Center remains open, and is located at Public Works, at 1155 E North Bend Way.

If you have information regarding unmarked flooded roads or have other non-emergency needs, you can reach out to the EOC:

• By phone, at (425) 888-7688 and (425) 888-7646
• By email, at EM@northbendwa.gov 

For LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCIES, please call 9-1-1

Sandbag Center: If you are concerned about the safety of your home or business, stop by the Public Works Department, at 1155 E North Bend Way to load sandbags, free of charge. Please bring a shovel! Learn more by visiting the Sandbag Center news release. 

Stay informed

• Follow weather updates by checking the National Weather Service
• Learn about flood phases: www.kingcounty.gov/flood or call 1-800-945-9263
• Sign up for King County Flood Warning notifications: King County Flood Alerts
• Sign up to receive City of North Bend Alerts
• Tune into the Emergency Radio Station at 1650 AM for recorded notices during severe emergencies
• Road closure updates are available on the King County website at https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/local-services/transit-transportation-roads/roads-and-bridges/road-closures. If you locate a road closure that is not reported on their map, please call their 24/7 Road Helpline, at (206) 477-8100 or toll-free at 1-800-527-6237

On Wednesday, December 10, North Bend Mayor Mary Miller issued a Proclamation of Emergency today regarding severe storms and river flooding throughout North Bend and King County.

On December 9, many of the local rivers reached or exceeded Phase 4 flood gauges. An additional band of hazardous weather conditions is anticipated through December 11, likely adding significant amounts of rainfall to an already impacted river ecosystem of the North, Middle and South Fork Snoqualmie River.

Read Mayor Miller’s Proclamation of Emergency HERE.

 The City of North Bend Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains open. If you have information regarding unmarked flooded roads or have other non-emergency needs, you can reach out to the EOC:

• By phone, at (425) 888-7688
• By email, at EM@northbendwa.gov  

For LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCIES, please call 9-1-1 

The City of North Bend serves as a King County Sandbag Center. Pick up sandbags if you are concerned about the safety of your home or business. Stop by the Public Works Department, at 1155 E North Bend Way to load sandbags, free of charge, but bring a shovel! Learn more by visiting the Sandbag Center news release. 

Stay informed

• Follow weather updates by checking the National Weather Service
• Learn about flood phases: www.kingcounty.gov/flood or call 1-800-945-9263
• Sign up for King County Flood Warning notifications: King County Flood Alerts
• Sign up to receive City of North Bend Alerts
• Tune into the Emergency Radio Station at 1650 AM for recorded notices during severe emergencies
• Road closure updates are available on the King County website at https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/local-services/transit-transportation-roads/roads-and-bridges/road-closures. If you locate a road closure that is not reported on their map, please call their 24/7 Road Helpline, at (206) 477-8100 or toll-free at 1-800-527-6237

Heavy rain accumulation overnight and through Wednesday morning has increased the Snoqualmie River to Flood Phase 4. Some areas may experience deep or fast flood waters and flooding of low-lying structures. 

The City of North Bend Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains partially activated. If you have information regarding unmarked flooded roads or have other non-emergency needs, you can reach out to the EOC:

• By phone, at (425) 888-7688
• By email, at EM@northbendwa.gov 

For LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCIES, please call 9-1-1

Road closures within the City of North Bend as of Wednesday, December 10, at 8:30 a.m.

• Mt. Si Boulevard, between Bendigo Blvd SW and South Fork Ave SW is closed due to water over roadway
• TAKE CAUTION: W 4th St, between Bendigo Blvd N and Main Ave N 
• Ballarat Ave NE and NE 12th St
• Boalch Ave NW, near 1711 Ave NW

The City of North Bend serves as a King County Sandbag Center. Pick up sandbags if you are concerned about the safety of your home or business. Stop by the Public Works Department, at 1155 E North Bend Way to load sandbags, free of charge, but bring a shovel! Learn more by visiting the Sandbag Center news release.

Stay informed

1. Learn about flood phases: www.kingcounty.gov/flood or call 1-800-945-9263

• Follow weather updates by checking the National Weather Service
• Sign up for King County Flood Warning notifications: King County Flood Alerts
• Sign up to receive City of North Bend Alerts
• Tune into the Emergency Radio Station at 1650 AM for recorded notices during severe emergencies
• Road closure updates are available on the King County website at https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/local-services/transit-transportation-roads/roads-and-bridges/road-closures. If you locate a road closure that is not reported on their map, please call their 24/7 Road Helpline, at (206) 477-8100 or toll-free at 1-800-527-6237

 What do during a flood

• Always obey road closure signs. Please do not drive around the closures – these areas are closed for your safety
• Never drive through a flooded area. Most cars can be carried away by less than two feet of moving water
• Don't walk or wade through flood waters. You can be knocked off your feet by as little as six inches of moving water. Additionally, downed power lines can electrify the water.
• Have your emergency supply kit ready to go if told to evacuate
• If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible. Delays or refusal to evacuate can jeopardize your safety, the safety of emergency responders, and hinder rescue efforts

The City of North Bend opened its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) under partial activation at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9. 

According to the National Weather Service, heavy rainfall and wind are anticipated to return to North Bend and other communities across the Pacific Northwest, beginning Tuesday evening. River levels are expected to rise once again throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with as much as 5.5” inches of rain predicted.

If you have information regarding unmarked flooded roads or have other non-emergency needs, you can reach out to the EOC:

• By phone, at (425) 888-7688
• By email, at EM@northbendwa.gov 

For LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCIES, please call 9-1-1

Stay informed

• Follow weather updates by checking the National Weather Service
• Sign up for King County Flood Warning notifications: King County Flood Alerts
• Sign up to receive City of North Bend Alerts
• Tune into the Emergency Radio Station at 1650 AM for recorded notices
• Road closure updates are available on the King County website at https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/local-services/transit-transportation-roads/roads-and-bridges/road-closures. If you locate a road closure that is not reported on their map, please call their 24/7 Road Helpline, at (206) 477-8100 or toll-free at 1-800-527-6237

Be prepared

• Pick up sandbags if you are concerned about the safety of your home or business: Stop by the Public Works Department, at 1155 E North Bend Way to load sandbags, free of charge, but bring a shovel! Learn more by visiting the Sandbag Center news release
• Teach all family members how, where and when to turn off utilities
• Prepare for utility outages which often accompany floods
• Learn the safest route from your home or business to higher ground
• Plan for housing in the event you need to evacuate your home
• Plan for a meeting place outside of the hazard area
• Consider purchasing a pump to use to remove water in and around your home during heavy rains or flooding

What do during a flood

• Always obey road closure signs. Please do not drive around the closures – these areas are closed for your safety
• Never drive through a flooded area. Most cars can be carried away by less than two feet of moving water
• Don't walk or wade through flood waters. You can be knocked off your feet by as little as six inches of moving water. Additionally, downed power lines can electrify the water.
• Have your emergency supply kit ready to go if told to evacuate
• If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible. Delays or refusal to evacuate can jeopardize your safety, the safety of emergency responders, and hinder rescue efforts

According to the National Weather Service, heavy rainfall and wind are anticipated to return to North Bend and other communities across the Pacific Northwest, beginning at approximately 3 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9.

King County issued an emergency proclamation Tuesday, in preparation for the impact of the severe storms and river flooding throughout the region. As of 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, river levels are dropping. However, river levels are expected to rise once again in the evening throughout the night, with as much as 5.5” inches of rain predicted between Tuesday and Wednesday night. 

Stay informed

• Follow weather updates by checking the National Weather Service
• Sign up for King County Flood Warning notifications: King County Flood Alerts
• Sign up to receive City of North Bend Alerts

Be prepared

• Teach all family members how, where and when to turn off utilities
• Prepare for utility outages which often accompany floods
• Learn the safest route from your home or business to higher ground
• Plan for housing in the event you need to evacuate your home
• Plan for a meeting place outside of the hazard area
• Consider purchasing a pump to use to remove water in and around your home during heavy rains or flooding
• Pick up sandbags if you are concerned about the safety of your home or business: Stop by the Public Works Department, at 1155 E North Bend Way to load sandbags, free of charge, but bring a shovel! Learn more by visiting the Sandbag Center news release

What do during a flood

• Always obey road closure signs. Please do not drive around the closures – these areas are closed for your safety
• Never drive through a flooded area. Most cars can be carried away by less than two feet of moving water
• Don't walk or wade through flood waters. You can be knocked off your feet by as little as six inches of moving water
• Have your emergency supply kit ready to go if told to evacuate
• If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible. Delays or refusal to evacuate can jeopardize your safety, the safety of emergency responders, and hinder rescue efforts
• Move your furniture and valuables to higher levels in your home if you have time
• Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), North Bend and neighboring communities should anticipate increased rainfall Monday, December 8, through Friday, December 12. River levels are expected to rise, with small stream and urban flooding possible.

North Bend’s Sandbag Center

The city collaborates with King County’s Flood Control District, and as a member, it serves as a Sandbag Center. For residents concerned about localized flooding impacting homes and businesses, visit the Public Works Department this week for sandbags:

• Enter through the North Bend Way entrance, located at 1155 E North Bend Way
• Check in by visiting the Public Works Administration Building, located near the North Bend Way entrance to Public Works
• Please bring your own shovel
• Residents will need to fill bags themselves, but sand and bags are available free of charge

Sandbag Center Hours

The Sandbag Center will be open overnight on Monday, December 8 through 5 p.m. Tuesday, December 9. Beginning Wednesday, December 10, the Sandbag Center will remain open on weekdays, during business hours, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

For emergency management concerns or questions, please email EM@northbendwa.gov. Read the National Weather Service’s Flood Watch by visiting www.forecast.weather.gov. 

Learn about flood preparedness by visiting King County’s Flood Preparedness webpage. Sign up for flood warnings at Flood Warning System - King County, Washington.

Public Works crews will continue maintaining drainage ditches, culverts, storm drains and roads. You can help prevent localized street flooding as well by keeping catch basins near your own property clear of debris. Learn about keeping storm drains and culverts clear by visiting https://northbendwa.gov/m/newsflash/Home/Detail/2531.

At the December 2, 2025, North Bend City Council meeting, the Council, Mayor Miller, and staff acknowledged Councilmember Alan Gothelf’s 19 years of service to the City of North Bend.

Councilmember Gothelf chose not to file for reelection and will end his service on December 31, 2025. He thanked the Council, staff, and community for their support and collaboration. Mayor Miller, councilmembers, and staff thanked Councilmember Gothelf for his many years of participation in local government.

“It’s an incredible privilege to have had you here,” commented Mayor Miller. “You have a heart for service. It’s undeniable, and that’s what it takes to do these jobs.”

Prior to the December 2 Council meeting, Mayor Miller, councilmembers, city staff, family and friends gathered to acknowledge Councilmember Gothelf’s work with North Bend. They spoke about many projects he helped bring to fruition, from largescale infrastructure projects to downtown beautification.

In addition to serving as Mayor Pro Tem in 2011, 2018 and 2024, Councilmember Gothelf participated in all four city council committees during his time in office, notably adding valuable input to the Public Health and Safety Committee. He began serving on the Eastside Fire and Rescue (EF-R) Board of Directors in 2008, becoming Chair in 2016. This year, he served as the Vice Chair.

At the November 13 EF-R Board meeting, Councilmember Gothelf was presented with a plaque by Retired Fire Chief Ben Lane, recognizing 15 years of service with EF-R.

Councilmember Gothelf served as a liaison on additional regional committees, including the Snoqualmie Watershed Forum, Snoqualmie Valley School District, the Regional Fire Authority Planning Committee, and the King County Emergency Management Advisory Committee.

On November 4, 2025, residents elected Rob McFarland to Councilmember Gothelf’s seat, filling the vacated City Council Position No. 2, effective January 1, 2026.

Watch a recording of the December 2 City Council meeting by visiting the city’s YouTube page, or navigate to the Media Center at www.northbendwa.gov.

Pictured below: Current and past councilmembers, city staff, friends and family celebrated Councilmember Gothelf's 19 years of service to North Bend at a celebration.

On Wednesday, December 10, Mayor Mary Miller invites residents to join her for casual, community-focused conversations with the city’s Meet Up with the Mayor event.

Stop by Bread and Bone between 11 and 12 p.m. for your favorite winter beverage or snack and enjoy getting to know your mayor while discussing city-related topics that are important to you. Whether you are curious about upcoming projects, or simply looking to connect over coffee, Mayor Miller welcomes this opportunity for open conversation and shared ideas.

Bread and Bone is located at468 E North Bend Way.

City of North Bend Wastewater Treatment Plant staff have identified several instances of suspected illegal dumping of septic or portable-toilet (sani-can) waste directly into city manholes. This practice is strictly prohibited and poses significant risks to public health, the environment, and essential city infrastructure.

Septic and portable-toilet waste can overwhelm or kill the biological organisms that clean wastewater inside the treatment plant. When these systems fail, it can lead to permit violations and environmental impacts to local waterways. Additionally, as the waste has not been screened or inspected for contaminants, this can cause severe damage to pumping equipment throughout the collection system and the wastewater treatment plant. Repairing this damage can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

How you can help

• Report suspicious activity immediately. If you see a septic truck, portable-toilet service vehicle, or any other hauler dumping into an open manhole or storm drain, call the Wastewater Treatment Plant emergency line right away, at (425) 765-0531.
• Note details if it is safe to do so: Company name on the truck, license plate, time, and location can assist with enforcement—but never approach or confront a driver.
• Remember, dumping waste into the sanitary or stormwater system without authorization is illegal and can cause serious harm to our community and environment.

Your vigilance helps protect our waterways, our infrastructure, and our public health. Thank you for helping keep our community safe.

On November 24, 2025, North Bend Mayor Mary Miller announced her selection of Sergeant Ed Hall as the King County Sheriff’s Office North Bend Chief of Police, effective January 1, 2026.

Hall has worked for the Sheriff’s Office for 21 years, having served most recently as a Sergeant for the City of Sammamish. Prior to that, he served as a Deputy and Master Police Officer for the City of SeaTac and surrounding cities. 

In addition to serving as a King County Sheriff’s Office deputy for the City of North Bend under a previous city contract from 2004 to 2005, Hall is a lifelong Snoqualmie Valley resident. He grew up in a family rooted in public service; his father having also served as a North Bend Police Officer. Hall now lives with his family in the nearby community of Fall City.

Hall received his bachelor’s degree in the Administration of Criminal Justice from Washington State University.

Following a public Open House with community and police chief candidates in November, North Bend Mayor Mary Miller and City Administrator Amber Emery served on final police chief candidate interview panels, alongside city councilmembers, staff, and community representatives. Sentiments shared from interview panels and the Open House provided ample feedback during deliberation.

“With nearly three decades of law enforcement experience in Washington State and accolades commending him for service and leadership, I am confident Sgt. Hall will nurture and protect our highly livable community,” commented Mayor Miller. “His work speaks volumes of his commitment to public safety, together with community engagement, transparency and partnership.”

The selection of North Bend’s Police Chief is an integral component to the City of North Bend’s transition in its Police Services interlocal agreement (ILA) from the Snoqualmie Police Department to the King County Sheriff’s Office. 

The City of North Bend will continue to contract with the City of Snoqualmie Police Department for law enforcement and police services, working together to enable a successful transition, which will begin April 1, 2026. 

“Ed Hall is an excellent choice to lead North Bend’s police department,” said King County Sheriff Patti Cole-Tindall. “His deep ties to the local community, as well as his extensive law enforcement experience makes him the perfect person for this job. I am excited for this next chapter in our partnership with the city.”

To learn about the Police Services ILA process, visit the 2025 Police Services webpage.  

Pictured below: Councilmembers, staff, police chief candidates and community at the November 17, 2025, Open House.

Thriving local businesses are incredibly important to North Bend. When you shop locally, you are supporting your community, your economy, and your neighbors. Not only that – our businesses make shopping fun!

Why drive out of the city if you can do it here? North Bend has ample options to cover your needs: bakery, butcher, bike shops, grocery stores, art, hair and nail salons, clothing and gift shops, dentists and doctors, barbers, landscape supplies, tailoring, massage therapists, nurseries, pet supplies and more.

Save gas. Keep it local. And, on Saturday, November 29, Shop Small promotions will be sprinkled all over North Bend, with businesses and nonprofit organizations sharing creative discounts and deals that are perfect for holiday shopping. Gift cards are also a convenient option and will provide those on your list with a chance to come out and explore North Bend when it’s time to use that gift card.

It’s easy to support North Bend businesses. Follow the North Bend Downtown Foundation (Facebook and (Instagram), and the SnoValley Chamber of Commerce (Facebook and Instagram) on social media to keep up with local business happenings. Looking for a business directory?

• Visit www.northbenddowntown.org for a Downtown North Bend business directory
• Visit the www.discovernorthbend.com for a directory showcasing businesses within and outside of the downtown sector

Residents and businesses are invited to shine brightly this season as the annual Light up North Bend holiday lighting contest returns.

Every year, local homes and businesses deck their places out for the community to admire! Light Up North Bend brings homes, businesses, and nonprofit organizations together for a bit of healthy competition.

Following the competition, enjoy a Light Up North Bend Holiday Tour Map, where all participants’ displays will be mapped out for guided personal tours around our North Bend community.

If you plan to light up your home, property or storefront this winter, please consider joining the annual lighting contest.

There are 4 divisions: Single-family home; Multi-family home (apartment, condo, townhome); Business; Neighborhood. There are 3 categories within the Single-family, Multi-family and Business Divisions:  

• VMA: Best Use of Music
• Hollywood: Best Theme
• Griswold: Best ‘Overuse’ of Lights (channel your inner Clark)  

The Neighborhood Division winner will be chosen based on the largest number of homes decked out for the season.

The registration deadline has been extended to Sunday, December 7. Participating homes, businesses, and nonprofits must be decorated and ready by December 8 at 5 p.m. Judging will occur December 8 through 14 with the help of North Bend city commissioners and other local leaders.

Register using this fillable Light up North Bend registration form (PDF). Participants can email the form to bkeveren@northbendwa.gov or deliver to the City Hall Front Counter during business hours listed on the form.

…Did we mention prizes? The Neighborhood division winner will get bragging rights, and the winners of each category in the Single-Family, Multi-Family and Business Divisions will receive a $50 gift card to the North Bend business of their choosing.

The Light Up North Bend Holiday Tour Map: After the judging is complete, we will share a map for community distribution so that everyone can do a Light Up North Bend Holiday Tour to take in the twinkling, decorated homes that participated. Beginning December 16, find the map:

• In the News Section of www.northbendwa.gov
• Follow us on Facebook
• Follow us on NextDoor
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on X

The City of North Bend and the Northwest Railway Museum’s Railway Crossing Capital Project is nearing completion, with one additional road closure required to safely accommodate railway crossing grinding and paving on State Route 202/Bendigo Boulevard on Tuesday, November 25.

SR 202/Bendigo Boulevard, between W Park Street and McClellan Street, will be closed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25.

McClellan Street will remain open during this closure. In addition, residents can expect a single lane closure on SR 202/Bendigo in the same vicinity on Thursday, November 20 and Friday, November 21, while crews from contractor, Stacy Witbeck construct curb and gutter.

View the Railway Crossing Capital Project Map.

The project is a result of a $4.8 million 2023 Rail-Highway Crossing Program grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation. Once finished, the four railway crossings will enhance quality of travel and safety with new concrete panels, tracks, crossing gates, signals and cantilevered flashing lights. In addition, the tracks between SR 202/Bendigo Boulevard and Main Avenue have been relocated approximately 14 feet south along McClellan Street to make room for future parking improvements in this area.

The four crossings are located at:

• SR 202/Bendigo Boulevard
• Main Avenue S
• NW 8^th Street, near Alm Way
• North Bend Way, near Tollgate Park

The city recognizes the impact and inconvenience of this work. We appreciate your patience and understanding as crews wrap up this project. Community members with comments or questions can reach out to Capital Projects and Grant Manager, Daniel Marcinko, by email, at dmarcinko@northbendwa.gov, or by phone, at (425) 888-7639.

The North Bend Downtown Foundation invites you to join community for our annual winter festival and tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, December 6, from 5 to 8 p.m. In addition to the official tree lighting ceremony led by Mayor Mary Miller, activities will include fireside s’mores, local live entertainment, complimentary photos with Santa – along with writing letters to Santa – and a free showing of the movie, Elf, at the North Bend Theatre.

Community will gather for the official tree lighting at 7 p.m. Located in the Historic District, at North Bend Way and Main Avenue, Mayor Miller will lead in a joyful countdown to the big event.

To safely accommodate everyone, the City of North Bend will be closing a portion of the Downtown Historic District.

Road Closure

A portion of North Bend Way and Main Avenue will be temporarily closed on December 6: North Bend Way, between Bendigo Boulevard and Ballarat Avenue, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Main Avenue, between East McClellan Street and 106 Main Avenue North, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Parking

There will be no paid parking or shuttle service. Please be cautious of people walking throughout Downtown North Bend. Free, public parking can be found at:

• Park and Ride located on the south side of W. North Bend Way and Sydney
• Park and Ride located on E North Bend Way, in front of the Park Street roundabout
• Angle parking on 2^nd Street and some gravel parking
• ADA Parking is available near the corner of Main Avenue and 2^nd Street, as well as the above-noted Park and Rides.

For the full performance lineup and all activities, visit www.northbenddowntown.org/holly-days. 

Si View Metropolitan Park District and the City of North Bend extend their sincere gratitude to the incredible community volunteers who dedicated their time and energy this fall to revitalize the Torguson Park Climbing Wall.

Originally constructed in 2009 to commemorate the City of North Bend’s Centennial, the climbing structure has now undergone a significant transformation, thanks to the efforts of local volunteers. Over the past several months, volunteers contributed a total of 183 hours to refresh the wall, resulting in a safer, more engaging, and inclusive climbing experience for all.

Key improvements include:

• Installation of 450 new handhold back plates
• Removal of nearly all old glue-in bolts
• Installation of 200 new handholds

The volunteer effort was led by Cindy and Michael Gaudio, whose leadership and enthusiasm inspired others to join the project. As work progressed, the climbing wall became a hub of activity, drawing interest from parkgoers and encouraging additional community participation.

The updated climbing wall now features:

• Bouldering routes around the entire structure
• New full-height routes on all wall faces
• A design focus on inclusivity, with routes suitable for climbers of all abilities

Si View Metropolitan Park District is proud to support community-driven projects that enhance public spaces and promote active lifestyles. The revitalized climbing wall is now open and ready for use, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to stop by and experience the improvements firsthand.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities with Si View by visiting www.siviewpark.org/volunteer.

Surrounded by community on the bank of the South Fork of the Snoqualmie River, Mayor Miller proclaimed Friday, November 14, 2025, as Arbor Day in North Bend. She thanked the community for joining this special celebration, and the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust (MTSG) for their coordination.

“Given the great forest lands that surround North Bend and the trees that line our streets and beautify our parks, trees form an important aspect of the city’s character and identity,” said Mayor Miller.

MTSG staff guided participants in a riparian habitat restoration event, where they planted a variety of native plants and trees along the South Fork of the Snoqualmie River. Principal Planner Mike McCarty shared information about the city’s work with the MTSG and the value of planting native species in our parks and in our gardens.

The Arbor Day Foundation is a million-member nonprofit conservation and education organization with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. In honor of its commitment to effective urban forest management, the City of North Bend has been recognized as a “Tree City USA” by the foundation for 14 years. Learn about the Tree City USA recognition and the Arbor Day Foundation by visiting www.arborday.org/.

Read Mayor Miller’s Arbor Day Proclamation by visiting the Document Center.

On Wednesday, November 19, Mayor Mary Miller invites residents to join her for casual, community-focused conversations with the city’s Meet Up with the Mayor event.

Stop by Hartwood Café between 9 and 10 a.m. for your favorite fall beverage or snack and enjoy getting to know your mayor while discussing city-related topics that are important to you. Whether you are curious about upcoming projects, or simply looking to connect over coffee, Mayor Miller welcomes this opportunity for open conversation and shared ideas.

Hartwood is located at 202 W North Bend Way. If you are unable to attend this event, there will be more! Mark your calendar for her final meetup of the year, on Wednesday, December 10, at 9 a.m. 

Residents have likely seen the news about the federal pause on SNAP benefits - and how it is affecting families right here in Snoqualmie Valley. Many neighbors are worried about what comes next, and the Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank (SVFB) is already feeling the impact.

The SVFB’s biggest message right now is that they are here for everyone. No one is ever turned away. The SVFB’s dedicated staff and volunteers are finding creative ways to meet this growing need, by expanding partnerships, building a regional food distribution plan, and finding new ways to stretch every dollar and every can of food. To keep their shelves stocked and our neighbors nourished, the SVFB is asking all of us to SNAP into action.

How you can help right now

• Spread the word: If you or someone you know needs food, come to the SVFB. They’re here for you, no questions, no judgment.
• Network: If you are part of a business or organization, ask if they’d be interested in being a food distribution site. By creating more ways to get food to people, the SVFB can increase food access.
• Donate: Look for SVFB donation bins at stores, or host a drive.
• Give: Your financial support keeps shelves stocked, heat going, lights on!

Read the SVFB's message to our community: SNAP News | svfb.

Learn more by visiting https://www.snoqualmievalleyfoodbank.org/snap-response-resources.

About Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank

Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank provides nutritious food and key resources to individuals and families across North Bend, Snoqualmie, and surrounding areas. Dedicated to building a stronger and more equitable community, the food bank strives to serve every neighbor with dignity, compassion, and care.

On November 7, 2025, the City of North Bend exited the Water Conservation Ordinance (WCO) for the remainder of the 2025 calendar year. With recent rainfall events and more on the horizon, the Snoqualmie River is likely to continue at above minimum in-stream flows for the remainder of the year. 

This was the sixth year for the city’s WCO, with Stage 1 beginning August 15.

Conservation efforts such as the WCO, in addition to conservation education, distribution system leak reduction efforts and water fixture efficiency requirements, have resulted in reduced water usage, even with a growing number of water customers over the past decade. In 2009, the City of North Bend had approximately 1,700 water meters, which grew to over 2,400 in 2020. In 2009, the city produced 230 million gallons of water to serve customers. In comparison, in 2023 – 14 years later, and with several thousand new residents – the city reduced water production to 198 million gallons.

 Though this year’s WCO has officially ended, practicing indoor water-wise habits throughout the year is greatly appreciated. 

For additional information, tools, and tips to conserve water around your home, including valuable rebates for replacing aging plumbing fixtures and appliances included with the City’s membership in the Saving Water Partnership, visit North Bend’s Water Conservation webpage (opens in a new tab). 

Please note: This news release has been updated to reflect new road closure dates for the North Bend Way railway crossing.

The City of North Bend and the Northwest Railway Museum are working together on the Railway Crossing Capital Project, a federal grant-funded project that, once complete, will improve a total of four railway crossings in North Bend.

Please take note of the following round-the-clock road closures: 

• ROAD CLOSURE – NW 8^th Street, near Alm Way: From 7 p.m. Sunday, November 9, through 5 a.m. Thursday, November 13
• ROAD CLOSURE – North Bend Way, near Tollgate Park: From 7 p.m. Friday, November 14, through 5 a.m. Tuesday, November 18

View the Railway Crossing Capital Project Map (opens in a new tab).

Crews from contractor, Stacy Witbeck, will work during daytime and nighttime hours, with the goal of completing each project as quickly and efficiently as possible. Drivers can expect clearly marked detours and messaging boards with information at each location. Messaging boards will be installed prior to each road closure.

Following the Council’s unanimous approval of the resolution authorizing the agreement at the October 7, 2025, City Council meeting, two of these railway crossing projects have been completed so far in October and November:

• SR 202/Bendigo Boulevard
• Main Avenue S

The project is a result of a $4.8 million 2023 Rail-Highway Crossing Program grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation.

Once finished, the four railway crossings will enhance quality of travel and safety with new concrete panels, tracks, crossing gates, signals and cantilevered flashing lights. In addition, the tracks between SR 202/Bendigo Boulevard and Main Avenue have been relocated approximately 14 feet south along McClellan Street to make room for future parking improvements in this area.

Thank you for your patience as crews work to complete the Railway Crossing Capital Project.

Community members with comments or questions can contact Capital Projects and Grant Manager, Daniel Marcinko, by email, at dmarcinko@northbendwa.gov, or by phone, at (425) 888-7639.

The city will continue to provide community updates as this project continues.

See the Council deliberate on the resolution by visiting the city’s YouTube channel (opens in a new tab) or the Media Center webpage (opens in a new tab) (beginning at approximately five minutes in). Learn more about the Railway Crossing Capital Project by reading the October 7, 2025 Council packet (opens in a new tab) (page 43), or by visiting the Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan (opens in a new tab) webpage.

Pictured here: The Railway Crossing Capital Project Map (opens in a new tab) (opens in a new tab).

The City of North Bend welcomes community members to meet candidates seeking to serve as our next Chief of Police as we prepare to begin contracting police services with the King County Sheriff’s Office in the spring of 2026.

Date: Monday, November 17

Time: 6 – 8 p.m.

Location: North Bend City Hall, at 920 SE Cedar Falls Way

This is a unique opportunity for residents to engage with the finalists, ask questions, and share impressions as part of the city’s inclusive hiring process. 

On Tuesday, November 18, the finalists will participate in final interviews with three city-organized panels composed of city councilmembers, staff, and community representatives. These panels will provide feedback to Mayor Miller and City Administrator Amber Emery, who will then deliberate with panel facilitators before selecting a preferred candidate.

The city anticipates the final selection for Police Chief in early December.

Are you interested in learning about how your local government works here in the City of North Bend? Want to learn about opportunities to become more involved, while connecting with city leaders, staff, and other civic-minded residents?

If so, please consider applying for the 2026 North Bend Citizens Academy: North-Bend-Citizens-Academy-Application-Packet-2026.

The Citizens Academy is an eight-week interactive course designed to provide an in-depth look into city operations. It will be held weekly, from February 2 to March 30, with a recognition event completing the series on April 7, 2026. Participants will be guided through a series of sessions that cover administration and city history, legal, public records and information, finance, fire, police, public works and infrastructure, parks, and community and economic development.

Sessions will be held weekly, and will include a parks tour, an Eastside Fire and Rescue tour, and a Wastewater Treatment Plant tour.

This free program is open to locals who are 16 years and older. Class size is limited to the first 25 applicants. Priority for application acceptance will be granted to residents located within the city limits of North Bend. Please feel free to apply should your home be located nearby, outside city limits. We will contact you as soon as possible to confirm your application acceptance. If you live outside city limits, you will receive a separate email that notifies you of acceptance into Citizens Academy.

Applications are accepted November 6 until the course reaches capacity. To apply, please fill out an application form which can be found on the City website, at the Citizens Academy webpage. Return your application by:

• Emailing your completed application to bkeveren@northbendwa.gov
• Stopping by the front desk at the North Bend City Hall with your completed, printed out application
• Mailing your completed application to City Hall, Attn. Bre Keveren, 920 SE Cedar Falls Way, North Bend, WA 98045

Mayor Miller has proclaimed November as Kindness Month in North Bend.

The city recognizes that kindness is a fundamental part of the human condition which bridges the divides of religion, politics, and gender, and that, through simple acts of kindness, we can promote healthy behavior and positive dynamics within our community.

The Empower Youth Network's Youth Suicide Prevention program, which includes the #BeKindSV campaign, makes our schools, communities and state stronger by facilitating meaningful changes through simple acts of kindness.

Read Mayor Miller’s Kindness Month Proclamation by visiting the Document Center, located at www.northbendwa.gov.  See Mayor Miller read her proclamation by watching the November 5, 2024, City Council meeting, located within the Media Center at www.northbendwa.gov/civicmedia.

Learn about Empower Youth Network by visiting www.empoweryouthnetwork.org.

Mayor Miller has proclaimed November as Flood Awareness Month in North Bend.

Over the years, North Bend has had numerous flood events of varying magnitudes. The North Bend Public Works Department oversees a nationally recognized floodplain management program that helps reduce damages and the cost of flood insurance policies by 25 percent, backed by the National Flood Insurance Program for local citizens. In addition, King County provides a state-of-the-art flood warning and emergency response system providing critical flood and emergency information each time the city experiences major flooding.

Read Mayor Miller’s Flood Awareness Month Proclamation by visiting the Document Center, located at www.northbendwa.gov. Learn more about flood preparedness by visiting the city’s Emergency Management webpage.  

Mayor Miller invites all residents, especially those living in flood-prone areas, to join her in learning preventative steps and preparedness techniques that can preserve your home and the lives of those you love.

On Tuesday, October 28, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., we invite you to join project partner, Related NW, and city staff for an open house at the North Bend Library to discuss the 230 Main Affordable Housing Project. As a highly livable, hardworking community here in the Snoqualmie Valley, North Bend is continuing in its effort to ensure a diverse array of home options that meet the needs of all residents, from local schoolteachers and retail workers, to seniors and veterans.

The Open House will be a great opportunity to meet representatives of Related NW, see plans for the 40-unit housing project, learn about why workforce housing is needed in North Bend, and to ask questions.

230 Main Avenue North: land purchased for the use of affordable workforce housing

In November 2023, the North Bend City Council approved the purchase and sale agreement of a 0.4-acre parcel of land for local affordable workforce housing, with Real Estate Excise Tax (REET 2) funds secured solely for this purpose (RCW 82.46.035). In addition to helping ease the workforce shortage among North Bend businesses, supportive goals for the project include:

• Establishing long-term housing affordability for local workers making no more than 60% of King County median income
• Serving as a model for innovative affordable housing
• Demonstrating the city’s commitment to meet its Economic Development and Housing Action Plan elements of the Comprehensive Plan
• Utilizing creativity and innovation to establish the project

In June 2023 the city released a Request for Proposal (RFP) to identify a developer for the project. Upon selecting Related NW, in April 2025, an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA) was created to begin negotiations for a proposed Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA).

On Wednesday, November 5, at 6:30 p.m., we invite you to join the Planning Commission and city staff for a Public Hearing at the North Bend City Hall to provide comment on the proposed DDA. The intent of the DDA is to ensure financial support from the city for the project and to approve code deviations identified by the applicant as essential for moving the project forward.

Your input is important to the Council, commissions, city staff and the North Bend community. For questions and more information, please contact Community and Economic Development Director, James Henderson, by email, at jhenderson@northbendwa.gov, or by phone, at (425) 888-7685.

The City of North Bend will soon issue a Clearing and Grading Permit for the new Mori Estates subdivision, with selective clearing anticipated to begin November 3, 2025.

Previously known as the Ichijo subdivision, Mori Estates will be located just north of SE 140^th Street, near eastern city limits. The neighborhood will include 40 lots, several privately maintained parks and a protected, forested tract along the south side of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River. The project will include a developer-funded sidewalk along its south property frontage with SE 140^th Street, with interior sidewalks throughout.

Mori Estates will have three road connections when home construction is completed:

• A road connection to the south via SE 140th Street
• A road connection to the west via SE 16^th Street
• A road connection to the west via SE 137^th Street

Traffic impacts will be limited for this portion of work, though large trucks will be accessing the property from SE 140^th Street. Residents near Mori Estates can expect noise during normal construction hours, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and some Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., as permitted by North Bend Municipal Code (NBMC) 8.26.115. No work will be allowed on Sundays or government holidays.

The city apologizes for inconveniences caused by this project, and thanks residents for their patience. Clearing is expected to wrap up by the end of December, with grading to follow. Grading will be weather dependent and is expected to continue through summer 2026.

For questions about sitework, please connect with Development Project Manager, Brian Tucker, by email, at btucker@northbendwa.gov, or by phone, at (425) 888-7659. For questions about the project, please reach out to Land Development Manager at ICHIJO USA, Kanon Kupferer, by email, at kanon@ichijousa.com. 

View this and other projects both under review and in construction within North Bend city limits by visiting the city’s interactive, online development map. 

Want to stay in the know on local transportation projects and other city updates? Notify Me is a free, online subscription tool featured on the City of North Bend’s website, https://northbendwa.gov/list.aspx. The opt-in service allows you to subscribe to a range of topics, so that you can pick and choose subjects for notification that you care about most. 

Have you explored Dahlgren Family Park recently? Visitors have a new opportunity to learn about the Snoqualmie Tribe’s deep history and connection to the Snoqualmie River through a series of interpretive signs recently installed at the park, located at 44120 SE North Bend Way.

Visit Dahlgren Family Park to learn about the canoes that are used by Snoqualmie people, the river’s connection with the heritage of the Snoqualmie Tribe, how everyone can contribute to healing river habitats, and more. 

“Working alongside the Snoqualmie Tribe, we are creating space that celebrates their history and stewardship, inspiring all who visit to value and protect the Snoqualmie River and this land we call home,” commented North Bend Mayor Mary Miller.

The park also features a canoe play structure beautifully painted with Tribal imagery by Snoqualmie Tribal Artist Bethany Fackrell. 

“This project is a good example of how parks and public spaces can be enriched through Indigenous storytelling. The City of North Bend, through partnership with and learning from the Snoqualmie Tribe, was able to share accurate, culturally relevant information with all visitors,” shared Snoqualmie Tribal Chairman Robert de los Angeles. He continued, “The Snoqualmie River watershed needs us all to be a part of protecting and restoring the river with the respect we would give to any member of the community.”

Another opportunity to learn about the Snoqualmie Tribe’s culture and connection to these lands is to visit Tennant Trailhead Park, where trail names are posted in the Lushootseed language, and a trailhead kiosk provides a pronunciation guide and information about Snoqualmie ancestral lands. 

Learn more about the Dahlgren Family Park signage by visiting https://snoqualmietribe.us/dahlgren-park/. Learn about North Bend and Si View Metropolitan Park District parks and trails by visiting https://northbendwa.gov/142/Parks-Trails.

Pictured here: A series of interpretive signage sharing the Snoqualmie Tribe's deep history and connection to the Snoqualmie River, and a canoe play structure painted with Tribal imagery by Snoqualmie Tribal Artist Bethany Fackrell. Photo courtesy of the Snoqualmie Tribe.

At the September 16, 2025, North Bend City Council meeting, the Council voted unanimously to authorize a new Police Services Interlocal Agreement (ILA) with the City of Snoqualmie. 

The Snoqualmie City Council also unanimously approved the new ILA during a special meeting on September 15, 2025. The ILA requires Snoqualmie to dismiss the lawsuit filed against North Bend and enables a successful transition of police services for North Bend, moving from the Snoqualmie Police Department to the King County Sheriff’s Office in 2026.

The Snoqualmie Police Department will continue providing police services to the City of North Bend through March 31, 2026. Beginning April 1, 2026, the King County Sheriff’s Office will begin serving as North Bend’s police department. 

“This is a significant moment in our local history,” said North Bend Mayor Mary Miller. 

“Maintaining the safety and well-being of residents while also ensuring long-term financial sustainability is of paramount importance. This week, we have reached a milestone, the result of extensive, thorough and sometimes contentious discussion. I am proud of my elected peers here in North Bend and Snoqualmie for working through the challenges to find an equitable outcome for both communities,” she continued.

The new ILA includes terms to support North Bend and Snoqualmie during the transition process, providing economic and service level certainty that enables both cities to plan for the future.

North Bend Mayor Pro Tem Mark Joselyn said, “It’s been a long journey. It was a difficult decision, but it was well considered, studied and researched. [The new ILA] will allow us to move forward.”

The cities of Snoqualmie and North Bend will continue to receive high quality police services that ensure the safety and well-being of both communities. 

Throughout the process, the Council has worked alongside staff to ensure that negotiations and research are thorough, transparent and data-driven. Learn more about the Police Services ILA process by visiting the 2025 Police Services webpage. 

Pictured here: Council, staff and community at the September 16, 2025, North Bend City Council meeting.

Summer has arrived, and parks and trails are calling here in North Bend! These days, people are faced with an abundance of mobility options that get the whole family out and about. Many residents are concerned about the safety and legality of some of these options.

Snoqualmie-North Bend Police have worked closely with city staff to create a webpage dedicated to classification, local and Washington State law on e-bikes, e-motorcycles and e-scooters. Check it out by visiting www.northbendwa.gov/449/E-Bike-E-Scooter-Safety. 

If you are planning your next adventure in North Bend on one of these, please be sure to familiarize yourself with the local laws that are here to ensure the safety of everyone sharing our roads and trails. Make sure you know the difference between an e-bike and an electric motorcycle. Many e-motorcycle makes and models are marketed as e-bikes and can travel much faster than a traditional e-bike, but any motor-driven cycle with a motor that exceeds 750 watts is an electric motorcycle. All laws that apply to gas-powered motorcycles also apply to e-motorcycles.

Visit the E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety webpage for information on:

• The difference between e-bikes and e-motorcycles
• Reporting illegal or unsafe behavior
• Parental support
• Rule violations
• E-scooters

Following two public hearings, the North Bend City Council voted unanimously to approve a resolution adopting the 2026 through 2031 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) on June 17, 2025.

The TIP lays out a short-range, six-year plan for improving and maintaining the city’s multi-modal transportation infrastructure and prioritizes projects by need and availability of funds. All cities, towns, and counties are required to develop and adopt a Six-Year TIP. The City of North Bend reviews and updates its TIP each year following a public hearing, with a goal of City Council adoption by July 1.

A few highlights to anticipate include:

• The State Route (SR) 202 shared-use path and pedestrian bridge over the South Fork Snoqualmie River will incorporate a 200-foot-long city-owned bridge that will provide safer access for pedestrians compared to the existing SR 202 bridge. It will also function as a utility pipe carrier, with a new Meadowbrook sewer line contained directly underneath.
• The Cedar Falls Way Pedestrian Improvements between Maloney Grove Avenue and 436^th Avenue SE will increase public safety with a new sidewalk and streetlights.
• The Tanner Trail Phases 2 and 3 will add more trail to the east, parallel to North Bend Way from its current location to connect with the Snoqualmie Valley Trail, resulting in another mile of trail extension.
• The Park Street Corridor Re-channelization will widen and improve the corridor, resulting in enhanced pedestrian safety and additional capacity.

Watch a recording of the June 17, 2025 City Council meeting by visiting the Media Center webpage, watch the recording by visiting the city’s YouTube channel, and clicking on the June 17, 2025 North Bend City Council Meeting – Part 1 video (at approximately 30 minutes in). Learn about all Six-Year TIP projects by reading the June 17 City Council Packet (beginning on page 35).

At the June 3, 2025 North Bend City Council meeting, councilmembers unanimously approved a resolution that will allow the Meadowbrook Sewer Utility Local Improvement District (ULID) to continue moving forward, bringing public sewer to the western portion of North Bend. The resolution accepted bids and awarded the construction contract to Northwest Construction, Inc., who provided the low bid.

“What originally began as a majority-led petition to build public sewer in the Meadowbrook area, now represents the city’s commitment to continue in delivering a modern, well-planned infrastructure system to our residents,” commented Mayor Mary Miller.

“Considering also the time, attention and work between the Council, staff and property owners is an example of how local government should operate,” she continued.

Public sewer will provide property owners in the Meadowbrook area with development opportunities that align with city zoning, incorporating a mix of commercial and residential land uses. Currently, these properties rely on septic drainfields. Many properties located within the ULID boundary are vacant, with onsite soils that generally do not meet public health requirements for septic systems.

Construction of the ULID will occur in stages over a period of 12 to 14 months, beginning with building sewer pipe to support a future low-pressure grinder pump system. Nearly all work will occur in and around existing roads and paved areas. By early 2027, the city anticipates residents and property owners will have the opportunity to install sewer connections and convert aging septic systems to this new, modern and environmentally sound system. 

Watch a recording of the June 3, 2025 City Council meeting by visiting the Media Center webpage, or watch the recording by visiting the city’s YouTube channel (beginning at 10 minutes in). Learn more about the construction schedule by reading the June 3, 2025 Council Packet (beginning on page 27).

The City of North Bend and Snoqualmie agree to revised interim Interlocal Agreement for Police Services; public safety operations remain in place and unchanged

On May 30, 2025, the Snoqualmie City Council voted unanimously to terms offered by the City of North Bend to sustain police services provided by Snoqualmie to the North Bend community. The interim agreement addresses near term concerns that both cities have expressed while providing a longer timeline to resolve additional important points.

“I appreciate that we could come to interim terms with the City of Snoqualmie to sustain our current policing services. The North Bend City Council will work in earnest with our neighbors to address disagreements and keep us on track for a smooth transition to the King County Sheriff’s Office for police services,” said North Bend Mayor Mary Miller.

The City of North Bend voted to move forward with negotiating a future police services agreement with the King County Sheriff’s Office on May 6, 2025. Subsequently the City of North Bend notified the City of Snoqualmie it was exercising its right to an 18-month notice of termination for services. The City of North Bend intended to use that cancellation period to provide a thoughtful pathway to transition services. Unexpectedly, the City of Snoqualmie took action and threatened to end police services effective June 1, 2025. After extensive discussions, the parties have now agreed to an interim agreement that sustains existing operations.

“Both city councils have expressed that keeping lines of communication open is critical to this transition and in the interests of our residents. We are neighbors and friends, and while we have disagreements, both our cities recognize the importance of moderation and thoughtful actions that create the best outcomes for our communities,” noted Mayor Pro Tem Mark Joselyn.

“Residents will wake up on June 1 with the same police service they have had for a decade. That is the most important thing they need to know,” concluded Mayor Miller.

Watch a recording of Snoqualmie’s May 30, 2025 Special City Council meeting by visiting the City of Snoqualmie’s YouTube channel. 

The North Bend City Council has worked alongside staff through an in-depth, thorough, transparent and data-driven process to evaluate and select the King County Sheriff’s Office as a provider. For a timeline of the process and additional information about the extensive selection process that led the Council to decide to move to the King County Sheriff’s Office, visit the 2025 Police Services Study webpage. 

The city will continue to provide community updates as we move forward in transitioning police services to the King County Sheriff’s Office.

On May 29, 2025, the North Bend City Council voted unanimously to approve a revised version of the City of Snoqualmie’s proposed interim Police Services interlocal agreement (ILA).

Following the City of North Bend’s formal Notice of 18-Month Termination for the City of Snoqualmie Police Services Contract on May 20, 2025, Snoqualmie Mayor Katherine Ross responded on May 27, 2025 with a letter stating that Snoqualmie intended to terminate police services at 12:01 a.m. on June 1, 2025, unless North Bend agreed to a new Interim Agreement proposed by Snoqualmie within less than 24 hours of receiving it.

North Bend disagrees with Snoqualmie’s unsupported assertion that the 18-month advance notice of termination, which continues the period of police services, was not guaranteed through the current and approved 2025 Renewal Agreement between the parties such that a new Interim Agreement was required. 

North Bend believes that public safety is paramount for the community and sought to preserve police services so that the future transition to the King County Sheriff’s Office could be deliberate, well-planned, and responsive to the community’s needs. North Bend maintains that both cities have demonstrated a clear and mutual understanding of this 18-month termination provision. However, Snoqualmie refused to honor the advance termination provision, stating that, “Snoqualmie will no longer be able to legally provide police services to North Bend.” 

This is an unacceptable position for North Bend. The new Interim Agreement, as proposed by Snoqualmie, would have extended policing services to North Bend through November 2026. However, it unilaterally increased the cost for services and contained other language that would be unreasonable and potentially create liability for North Bend.  

The Council voted to authorize North Bend Mayor Pro Tem Mark Joselyn to sign the Interim Agreement between the City of Snoqualmie and the City of North Bend regarding Police Services as proposed by the City of Snoqualmie with one revision to Section II(A) to read as follows: 

“To maintain the status quo of police services, the Parties agree that following sections of the 2019 Renewal Agreement are in effect: II.1, II.2, II.7, II.8, II.9, II.11, II.12, II.13, and II.14.  The parties reserve the rights to enforce provisions of the 2019 Renewal Agreement not herein identified. This will remain in effect until terminated with sixty (60) days notice. While this Agreement is effective, the City of North Bend will pay the City of Snoqualmie $219,849.00 each month to maintain the status quo; the City of North Bend acknowledges this amount may be challenged by the City of Snoqualmie.”

“Maintaining public safety is paramount to this council and all of us gathered here. There is no question about that,” commented North Bend Mayor Pro Tem Joselyn. 

Councilmembers noted that both cities have previously expressed a shared understanding of the governing documents for the 2025 renewal agreement. 

“After we selected King County to move forward in providing our police services, the City of Snoqualmie is challenging their understanding of the 2025 renewal, giving us very little time or notice to respond,” commented Councilmember Brenden Elwood.

Mayor Pro Tem Joselyn continued, “At the end of 2024 we had in place an interlocal agreement that lapsed, and yet we did not receive threats of not picking up the phone were residents to call to request police services. These two bodies were able to put in place an interim interlocal agreement and it took almost a month for that to take place, so what has changed between then and now?”

He continued, “The assertion by the [Snoqualmie] mayor stands in stark contrast both in tone and substance, [in reading] the May 8^th news release posted on the official City of Snoqualmie website, wherein the Snoqualmie city administration states that, ‘Snoqualmie is committed to working cooperatively with North Bend and King County throughout the transition process.’” 

Watch a recording of the May 29, 2025 Special City Council meeting by visiting the Media Center webpage, or watch the recording by visiting the city’s YouTube channel.

The North Bend City Council has worked alongside staff through an in-depth, thorough, transparent and data-driven process to evaluate and select the King County Sheriff’s Office as a provider. For a timeline of the process and additional information about the extensive selection process that led the Council to decide to move to the King County Sheriff’s Office, visit the 2025 Police Services Study webpage. 

The city will continue to provide community updates as we move forward in transitioning police services to the King County Sheriff’s Office.

At the May 20, 2025 North Bend City Council meeting, the Council voted unanimously to approve a motion authorizing an interlocal agreement (ILA) with the King County Sheriff’s Office for future police services in North Bend. The decision follows a comprehensive and exhaustive evaluation process of policing service options that included forming a city-owned police department, continuing to contract with the City of Snoqualmie, or contracting with the King County Sheriff’s Office.

The result and council action on May 20 is in line with a procedural schedule set by the Council for the 2025 Police Services selection process.

As is required by the cities of North Bend and Snoqualmie’s current ILA for Police Services, submitting a formal 18-month Notice of Termination is an important component to the transition process. As such, the Council voted unanimously at the May 20 meeting to approve the motion that provides for this notice to the City of Snoqualmie, which will allow the parties to work cooperatively throughout the transition.

During the meeting, Mayor Miller thanked both agencies, city staff and the Council for the collective time and effort put forth throughout the police services selection process, and she thanked the Snoqualmie Police Department for over a decade of service to North Bend residents and businesses.

“We have spent a fair amount of time on this as a group. I look forward to being in a relationship with the King County Sheriff’s Office. The breadth, depth and professionalism that they bring to the job is, I think, second to none,” commented Mayor Pro Tem Joselyn.

To assure an orderly transition, the current ILA with the City of Snoqualmie provides for continued policing services for the next 18 months which will end November 30, 2026, at which time policing services with the King County Sheriff’s Office will begin. 

Watch a recording of the May 20, 2025 North Bend City Council meeting by visiting the Media Center webpage, or watch the recording on the city’s YouTube channel. For a timeline of the process and additional information about the extensive selection process, please visit the 2025 Police Services Study webpage. 

The city will continue to provide community updates as we move forward in transitioning police services to the King County Sheriff’s Office.

North Bend Mayor Mary Miller delivered her 2025 State of the City address at the May 6^th City Council meeting, where she reflected on citywide achievements in 2024, and highlighted upcoming projects that are anticipated to move forward this year. 

In her address, Mayor Miller spoke of her and the Council’s focus on fiscal sustainability, infrastructure and community development, expanding green spaces, addressing housing affordability challenges, ensuring public safety for all residents, and the importance of being open and available to the public.

“Whether you want to talk about emergency preparedness, permits, have questions about your utilities bill, or just want a quiet place to sit in our public hall, our doors are open, and we are here to help,” said Mayor Miller. 

She continued, “Together, let us continue the good work of fellowship and connection, always with the goal of supporting and enhancing our uniquely beautiful, highly livable North Bend and Snoqualmie Valley."

Watch Mayor Miller’s State of the City Address by visiting the Media Center on the City’s website (beginning at one hour, 15 minutes in), or visit the city’s YouTube channel and click on the May 6, 2025 City Council meeting. You can read her State of the City Address by navigating to the Document Center on the City’s website or visit the Mayor’s webpage. 

Pictured here:  Mayor Miller delivering her 2025 State of the City address at the May 6th City Council meeting.

At the May 6, 2025 North Bend City Council meeting, the Council voted unanimously to approve a motion authorizing negotiations for an interlocal agreement (ILA) with the King County Sheriff’s Office for police services in North Bend.

Each councilmember spoke, sharing a deep appreciation for community input, while acknowledging the extensive, rigorous and data-driven process that persuaded the Council to decide on Tuesday evening to move from the Snoqualmie Police Department, to the King County Sheriff’s Office. 

Local business owners, nonprofit organizations, residents, Snoqualmie councilmembers, and Snoqualmie Mayor Ross provided public comment regarding the provision of police services in North Bend. They voiced their own experiences with and feedback on the city’s current police services provider, the Snoqualmie Police Department. 

Councilmembers articulated their gratitude for the work Snoqualmie police officers have provided the North Bend community for over 14 years. 

“The Snoqualmie Police Department has served us well and kept us safe,” commented Councilmember Heather Koellen. “The same will be true for the Sheriff’s Department. They will protect us and keep us safe.”

The King County Sheriff’s Office provided an in-depth presentation at the April 8, 2025 Special Workstudy meeting, sharing extensive research and responsive communication throughout the city’s Request for Proposals (RFP) process. Councilmembers talked about positive interactions and future opportunities with the organization. The City Council and the city administration look forward to working with the Sheriff’s Office.

Watch the King County Sheriff’s Office’s presentation to the Council at the April 8, 2025 Special Workstudy meeting by visiting the city’s Media Center webpage, at https://northbendwa.gov/civicmedia, or the city’s YouTube channel, at https://youtu.be/6ew28HY-Tn0 (at approximately one hour, two minutes in).

Councilmembers spoke about the difficult decision, noting the importance of long-term fiscal sustainability, increased communication and access to crucial information. Moving forward, it is expected the new ILA will incorporate input from the city on financial management. 

“There were several factors that led to this decision,” commented Councilmember and current Public Health and Safety Committee Chair, Chris Rustik. Regarding the current police services contract, she said, “While this contract is for police services, the contract itself is with the City of Snoqualmie and limits our direct involvement with and access to the police department. The City of North Bend has no input on decisions that directly affect our costs, such as salary changes, facility upgrades or training expenses.”

She continued, “Although opinions may vary on the best approach, it is very clear that the safety of our community is a top priority for us all.” 

Mayor Pro Tem Mark Joselyn commented, “If I believed for a minute that becoming a contract city with the King County Sheriff’s Office would make our community less safe, I would not support it.” 

He also noted supporting testimonials from the cities of Woodinville and Sammamish regarding the quality of services provided to each of them by the King County Sheriff’s Office.

As ILA negotiations with King County commence, the Snoqualmie Police Department will continue as the City of North Bend’s police services provider until a final ILA is approved by the Council and thereafter, until terminated with an 18 month notice by the City of North Bend. 

“We will have the transition process be as smooth as possible,” said Mayor Mary Miller.

Mayor Miller spoke about continuing relationship building, emphasizing the importance of open communication. 

She continued, “Thank you to the community for coming up and talking to us, saying exactly how you feel. It’s important and I welcome you to keep doing that. Don’t ever stop.”

Watch a recording of the May 6, 2025 North Bend City Council meeting by visiting the Media Center webpage, at https://northbendwa.gov/civicmedia, or the city’s YouTube channel, at https://youtu.be/lERFG5VTbtY (beginning at approximately one hour, 45 minutes in). For a timeline of the process and additional information about the extensive 2025 Police Services selection process, please visit https://northbendwa.gov/428/2025-Police-Services-Study. 

The city will continue to provide community updates as they move forward with ILA negotiations with the King County Sheriff’s Office.

Pictured here: Attendees, staff, Mayor Miller and the City Council at the May 6, 2025 City Council meeting

Long-term financial sustainability, predictability, and maintaining public safety and other city services are essential components of North Bend's highly livable community. 

Since 2012, the City of North Bend has contracted with the City of Snoqualmie for law enforcement and police services. In 2024, the neighboring cities of North Bend and Snoqualmie began negotiations to explore renewing their Police Services Contract. 

The North Bend City Council has worked alongside staff through an in-depth, thorough, transparent and data-driven process to evaluate and select a provider. 

Milestones: Research, communication, evaluation and selection

• January 7, 2025: The Council approves a Renewal interlocal agreement (ILA) for police services with the City of Snoqualmie through June 1, 2025. Mayor Miller explains that the Council is focused on reaching a fair and mutually beneficial agreement that meets the needs of both communities. 
  1. Read the news release
  2. Read Agenda Bill 25-004
• March 14, 2025: In an abundance of focus on long-term financial sustainability, predictability, quality policing services and transparency, the city releases a Request for Proposals (RFP), seeking responses from qualified police service providers.
  1. Read the news release
  2. Read the RFP
• March 18, 2025: Jarrod Burguan, with the Center for Public Safety Management, LLC (CPSM) presented the Police Services Study for the City of North Bend. The in-depth study reviewed three police services options for the city: creating its own police department, starting a new contract with the Snoqualmie Police Department, or contracting with the King County Sheriff’s Office.
  1. Watch the presentation to the Council (at approximately 10 minutes in)
  2. View the presentation PowerPoint to the Council
  3. Read the final report of the Police Services Study
• April 1, 2025: Following issuance of the RFP, the City of Snoqualmie requested an extension of the due date for the written response, which was originally due on April 11. 
  1. Read Agenda Bill 25-035, which provides the police services schedule related to the RFP and decision-making
• April 8, 2025: Community joins the Council and staff for a Special Workstudy meeting, where the where the Snoqualmie Police Department and the King County Sheriff's Department delivered presentations as responders to the city's RFP.
  1. Watch presentations to the Council 
  2. View the Snoqualmie Police Department’s presentation
  3. View the King County Sheriff’s Department’s presentation
• April 15, 2025: The RFP outlines a scoring rubric for the April 8, 2025 police services presentations. The city’s four department directors of Public Works, Community and Economic Development, Administrative Services and Finance scored each presentation and written proposal. This is presented at the April 15, 2025 City Council meeting.
  1. Watch the presentation to the Council (at approximately 31 minutes in)
  2. Read the scored results
• April 22, 2025: The Council holds a Workstudy, with discussion on police services scored results.
  1. Watch discussions (at approximately 45 minutes in)
  2. Read the presentation of scored results, as it was updated on April 22, 2025
• Councilmembers raise additional questions at the April 22, 2025 Workstudy. The City of Snoqualmie and the King County Sheriff’s Office provide answers on April 22, 2025.
  1. Read questions and answers
• May 6, 2025: The Council has completed its discussion for contracted police services and is ready to authorize Mayor Miller to begin negotiations on an ILA for the provision of police services. 
  1. View the May 6, 2025 City Council Packet

For additional information about the 2025 Police Services selection process, please visit https://northbendwa.gov/428/2025-Police-Services-Study. The city will continue to provide community updates as they move forward in the selection process.

On April 15, 2025, the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) announced that the City of North Bend has been awarded the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2025 - 2026 Biennial Budget. 

As part of their announcement, GFOA shared that each recipient has demonstrated pioneering efforts to improve the quality of budgeting by providing an excellent example for other governments. Out of nearly 20,000 cities nationwide, North Bend is one of approximately 1,700 cities to receive this recognition, indicating how well our budget serves as:

• a policy document 
• a financial plan 
• an operations guide
• a form of communication 

Award-winning budget documents must be rated "proficient" in all four categories, and in 14 mandatory criteria within those categories. North Bend Mayor Mary Miller applauded the collaborative efforts of city staff and a longstanding, local history of hard work and care, as this represents North Bend’s ninth National GFOA Award for budget publications. 

“We are immensely proud of Director Martin Chaw, Deputy Director Elaine Morse, and the entire Finance Department,” said Mayor Miller. “GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award reflects our ongoing commitment to transparent and balanced fiscal sustainability, an incredibly important service to our residents.”

Read the 2025 – 2026 Biennial Budget by visiting the City Budget webpage, at www.northbendwa.gov.  

Following the North Bend City Council's approval authorizing a Renewal lnterlocal Agreement (ILA) for Police Services with the City of Snoqualmie through June 1, 2025, the city opened a Request for Proposals (RFP) today with the intent of providing an open and transparent selection process for police services. 

The City of North Bend has contracted with the City of Snoqualmie for law enforcement and police services since September of 2012. The cities are continuing discussions about police services while North Bend is gathering necessary information to make an informed decision. In the meantime, the North Bend City Council is evaluating all options, including continuing to contract with the City of Snoqualmie, forming its own police department or contracting with the King County Sheriff's Office. 

Long-term financial sustainability, predictability, and maintaining public safety and other city services are essential components of North Bend's highly livable community. The City of North Bend's contract for policing services represents its single largest area of expenditure. 

The Council expects a thorough, transparent and data-driven process to evaluate and select a provider. This is a critical component to procuring a contract that incorporates the community's voice as part of the selection process. The RFP includes key milestones to ensure the evaluation and selection is completed in a timely and equitable manner. 

The city will continue to provide community updates as they move forward in the selection process.

As North Bend Mayor Pro Tem Mark Joselyn welcomed in the new year alongside the rest of our community this winter, he was startled one weekend when he encountered a sick, lethargic female elk alone near his home in North Bend.

Residents and visitors alike know that North Bend is steeped in natural beauty, bounded by the South and Middle Forks of the Snoqualmie River and surrounded by more than 5,000 acres of protected public land. With that wilderness comes ample amounts of wildlife – in parks, crossing public Rights-Of-Way, sharing trails with us, and often, near and around our homes.

When Mr. Joselyn encountered the obviously ill elk in January, he knew he needed to do something quick. He also knew his desire to help might not be effective without professional assistance. That day, he called the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), leaving a message describing the elk, her location and his concern.

Mr. Joselyn was relieved to connect quickly with a responsive team member at WDFW. He was instructed to leave the elk alone and assured that someone would arrive soon. As promised, Wildlife Conflict Technician, Trent Inman, arrived on scene. The elk was examined, and it was determined that she was, sadly, suffering and at the end of her life. She was carefully and humanely euthanized. Specialists transported her body to another location.

“I was so thankful to have enforcement personnel from the Washington State Dept of Fish and Wildlife respond so competently and humanely to address the sad situation,” said Mr. Joselyn.

While the outcome was tragic, WDFW made the best of the situation by helping an animal in pain, and they couldn’t have done so without a resident such as Mr. Joselyn’s report.

WDFW Region 4 Conflict Specialist Kevin O’Connor said, “WDFW has an excellent team of enforcement officers and biologists to address any on-the-ground wildlife concerns.”

“Our responding team would like to give a big shout-out and thank you to the North Bend Public Works Department for helping us,” he added. Public Works Department staff often help different organizations in the field when unique situations arise within city limits.

In the event of an immediate public safety issue, wildlife violation, or an injured or dangerous animal, Mr. O’Connor recommends calling the WDFW Enforcement office at (360) 902-2936 or emailing WILDCOMM@dfw.wa.gov. For more tips, visit the WDFW's Living with Wildlife webpage.

The City of North Bend has contracted with the City of Snoqualmie for law enforcement and police services since September of 2012. 

On January 7, 2025, the North Bend City Council unanimously approved authorizing a Renewal Interlocal Agreement (ILA) for Police Services with the City of Snoqualmie that continues through June 1, 2025. At this time, the City of North Bend is evaluating all police service provider options, including continuing to contract with the City of Snoqualmie, forming its own police department or contracting with the King County Sheriff’s Office.

Long-term financial sustainability and maintaining public safety and other city services is an essential component of North Bend’s highly livable community. Moving forward, the City Council has begun work to undertake a request for proposal (RFP) process for police services to ensure that a police services contract meets these requirements.

The Council believes that a thorough, transparent and data-driven process to evaluate and select a provider for police services is a critical component to procuring a contract that incorporates the community’s voice as part of the selection process. The RFP includes key milestones to ensure the evaluation and selection of a provider is completed in a timely and equitable manner.

“We continue our focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of North Bend residents. The process of selecting a provider for police services is of utmost importance, and the Council will work tirelessly to ensure we find the contract that is right for our community,” said Mayor Mary Miller.

The city will continue to provide community updates as they move forward in the selection process.

At the February 18, 2025, City Council meeting, the North Bend City Council voted unanimously to approve a Resolution accepting a Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) grant and dedication of matching city funds for Phase 1 of the North Bend Way Complete Streets Corridor Capital Project.

As a main street through town, North Bend Way connects residents and visitors to our neighborhoods, parks, local businesses, and other community gathering places. The Complete Streets Plan will enhance this highly visible local street with heightened accessibility, safety, and connectivity for people of all ages and abilities. It also incorporates our community’s value in maintaining North Bend’s small-town character by creating more pedestrian connections to local community assets, such as parks and other gathering places.

Phase 1 of the Complete Streets Program involves a segment of North Bend Way between the Tollgate Park Entrance, located at 1300 W North Bend Way, and the Ribary Creek Bridge, a total of 2,400 feet along North Bend Way. The project will include reducing the four-lane cross section on North Bend Way to two lanes of traffic, connecting the Historic District of Downtown North Bend to Tollgate Park.

In July 2022, the city began working with consultant Parametrix to prepare the conceptual Complete Street Corridor Plan, with community input from two public workshops and an online survey that summer. The TIB grant was awarded to the city on November 22, 2024, in the amount of $1,002,519, with a requirement that the city provide matching funds of $220,066. These matching funds will be funded through Transportation Impact Fee (TIF) and/or Transportation Benefit District (TBD) funds.

Next steps include the selection of a design consultant, with construction anticipated to begin in 2027.

Watch Council deliberate on the Resolution to accept the TIB grant and dedication of matching city funds for Phase 1 by visiting the City’s Media Center webpage (beginning at approximately 43 minutes in). Read more about Phase 1 by viewing the February 18 City Council meeting packet (beginning on page 5).

On January 7, 2025, the North Bend City Council unanimously approved a Motion authorizing a Renewal Interlocal Agreement (ILA) for Police Services with the City of Snoqualmie beginning January 1, 2025, and continuing through June 1, 2025, or until a new agreement is agreed to by both cities, whichever is earlier. 

The City of North Bend has contracted with the City of Snoqualmie for law enforcement and police services since September of 2012. During the January 7^th City Council meeting, councilmembers expressed their gratitude for the Snoqualmie Police Department’s diligent work providing public safety in both communities for over a decade, while also looking forward to a contractual solution that works for everyone.

“Ensuring the safety and well-being of residents is at the core of the City’s mission to nurture our highly livable community here in North Bend. Like Snoqualmie, we are focused on reaching a fair and mutually beneficial agreement that meets the needs of both communities,” commented Mayor Miller.

 The neighboring cities began negotiations in 2024 to explore a Renewal ILA. Under the current contract, North Bend paid Snoqualmie just over $2.5 million in 2024 for policing services. On October 29, 2024, following several months of negotiations and reflecting the result of the City of Snoqualmie’s 2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with its Police Union, the City of North Bend proposed compensation of $2,835,674 for Snoqualmie to continue to provide police services in 2025.

On December 9, 2024, Mayor Miller and Interim City Administrator Bob Larson presented to the Snoqualmie City Council during a public meeting, discussing the importance of preserving the City’s relationship with Snoqualmie, and expressing a desire for Snoqualmie to continue to provide police services in 2025. 

On January 13, 2025, the City of Snoqualmie City Council is scheduled to consider the Renewal ILA. 

Read Agenda Bill 25-003 beginning on page 65 of the January 7, 2025, City Council Packet. Watch this portion of the City Council meeting by visiting the City’s Media Center webpage (beginning 30 minutes in).

Dear North Bend Residents,

August 27^th marked the first day of school for many North Bend students. As is my tradition, I met up with local teachers and specialists to welcome elementary kids back for another exceptional year of learning. I saw many familiar faces, and I got a few high-fives from brand new students who were elated to begin this big, new chapter in their young lives. Thank you to all families who have chosen North Bend as your home, and to our teachers and administrators, welcome back! You play a pivotal role in the lives of our youth. 

Being a part of that “new school year” buzz alongside our local students is invigorating. Yet, with the enthusiasm comes increased traffic amidst a host of valley-wide transportation improvement projects that we must contend with – not to mention an increase in pedestrians out and about.

With many years of experience in construction, I have a deep respect for the importance of robust, sustainable infrastructure. Our local roads, buildings, energy and water infrastructure must be built to last. It is imperative that the planning and designing of every project considers North Bend’s unique, mountain town economy, social and environmental needs – now and for the foreseeable future. 

Please take care as you navigate through town and the Upper Valley. Crews are hard at work, and I am confident you will love the results. Enhanced wastewater treatment services, environmental conservation, improved road surfaces and accessible sidewalks are good for our community. But I understand the challenges of getting there. 

Before you head out for your morning commute or gather your kids up for school, please join me for a quick look back at this summer, and a glimpse into the future with upcoming projects.

Infrastructure and Transportation Improvements

In June, I had the honor of slicing through that ceremonial red ribbon as we celebrated the completion of the City’s largest ever capital project, the Wastewater Treatment Plant High Priority Improvements. Standing atop the headworks building, I was joined by former and current elected officials, stakeholders and importantly, the staff who helped make this project a reality. 

This critically important project raises our infrastructure to a whole new level of environmental standards by decreasing plant odor, improving safety, increasing the protection of the Snoqualmie River, and being prepared to accept new capacity. This investment by our taxpayers is incredibly valuable. Landscaping is anticipated to begin along Bendigo Blvd/Highway 202 following the installation and connection of the Meadowbrook Sewer ULID pipe by 2026.

Want to see your tax dollars at work? Let this be your official invite to tour the WWTP! To learn more, visit the WWTP HPI Project webpage. 

In addition, the City recently applied for a $15 million federal grant to design and build a sanitary sewer collection, conveyance and lift station system in the Silver Creek neighborhood, which would bring us several miles of new sewer piping. Providing wastewater treatment in a community with a high water table ensures that sewage is treated to a high standard and that our drinking water is protected, consistent with the high environmental standards that the city is committed to provide. This would be a substantial improvement in infrastructure, and I am hopeful it will come to fruition.

In June, following a public hearing, the Council approved the adoption of the 2025 through 2030 Six-year Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP). The TIP lays out a plan for improving and maintaining our multi-modal transportation infrastructure, prioritizing projects by need and availability of funds. Look forward to a wide array of significant projects, such as McClellan Alley improvements, Tanner Trail Phases 2 and 3, a roundabout at State Route (SR) 202 and more. 

With a healthy combo of neighborly collaboration between North Bend and Snoqualmie and a 2024 traffic study by the Washington State Department of Transportation, both the North Bend and Snoqualmie City Council approved reducing the speed limit on a portion of SR 202 from 50 MPH to 40 MPH. The Snoqualmie Tribe, the Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Meadowbrook Farm Preservation Association share in our concern for local wildlife and drivers. Traffic has increased over the years, and this segment of highway lies within the vicinity of our local elk herd. This needed safety improvement is now in effect.

Pedestrian connectivity is an ongoing project here in North Bend. In addition to removing sidewalk gaps throughout town, we are working to ensure that all our residents and visitors have equal access to public right-of-way. We are now gathering input to create an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Transition Plan. In July we began a citywide survey, encouraging residents to report right-of-way barriers within our community. If you have not had a chance yet, please do share your feedback by taking the survey.

You likely remember that in 2022, the Council authorized the formation of the Meadowbrook Sewer Utility Local Improvement District (ULID). Public sewer in the western portion of the City will provide property owners with development opportunities that better align with zoned uses in this area, promoting a robust commercial tax base and environmental support, with less reliance on aging septic systems. Since then, staff have been hard at work, staying on budget and on time. Design is now 60 percent complete, with construction anticipated to start in 2025. 

Public Safety 

Your councilmembers and I are strong advocates for public safety, and we understand that emergency preparedness plays a big part in ensuring the wellbeing of residents, whether it is sunny with a chance of alpenglow or 14 degrees with freezing rain on the way. Working with Eastside Fire and Rescue (ESF-R), the Snoqualmie Police Department, King County Emergency Management, our local volunteer-run North Bend Amateur Radio Emergency Services (NBAT) and neighboring cities, we are in the process of strengthening our own emergency operations planning. 

This summer, ESF-R wildfire mitigation specialists and staff met with community for a series of wildfire discussions and open houses. Feedback on debris collection events, concerns regarding at-risk properties and communicating valley-wide emergencies were among many topics discussed.

Equally important to public safety is the presence of our law enforcement officers. In June, collaborative work between the Snoqualmie Police Department, Simon Properties and the City brought the opening of our first police substation, located at the North Bend Premium Outlets. The heightened presence of local police in this area is appreciated. 

Community Development Projects

Accessible parks, trails, and open spaces are an integral part of our healthy community, and in June, many of you joined us in celebrating the opening of Dahlgren family Park, a four-acre space dedicated to picnicking, volleyball, pickleball and playground adventures, with new trail connections and educational features that soon will share the Snoqualmie Tribe’s deep history and connection to this land and to the Snoqualmie River. The park also creates new recreation opportunities on the east side of town, an area that has been identified as needing a city park. While the park is open, there are a few final items that need finishing, such as remaining pathway work, grass restoration and final completion of the pickleball court. 

Thanks to a grant awarded by the Department of Ecology, staff are beginning work on an Integrated Public Shoreline Access Plan. We share in your love for local shorelines along the Middle and South Fork Snoqualmie River. As wildlife habitat, an erosion and pollutant filter, and a place of natural beauty, we want to ensure you can view access points and trails to these special places, where we can recreate respectfully. Following a community-wide survey on shoreline access, we are hosting an Open House at City Hall on September 25, at 5:30 p.m. I hope to see you there. 

This summer, we invited you to join us in envisioning a new future for 302 W North Bend Way, a highly visible property in our downtown corridor. Currently a vacant lot with potentially contaminated soil from its previous use as a gas station, we put out a call in July for your thoughts on how this gateway property could be used to meet a variety of community needs. The survey received over 746 responses. Your concern and care are a testament to the importance of this place as a community resource. Please stay tuned for the survey results and visit the project webpage.

New Businesses

As we continue our focus on economic development, we were pleased to welcome new businesses in town this summer, including The Village Project, Treasures in Heaven and The Book Nest. Also fun, I had the opportunity to join in on celebrating Wildflower Barrelhouse and the Hartwood Café with the SnoValley Chamber of Commerce and the North Bend Downtown Foundation!

Budget

The Finance Department is working right now on the development of the City’s next biennial budget, covering the period of January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2026. My proposed budget will be submitted for Council review in the coming months, with hopeful anticipation for adoption in December.

North Bend’s long-term fiscal sustainability is important for providing essential city services to residents and businesses. To support this goal, council and staff have been working with a consultant to understand the city’s near and long-term expenses and revenues and proactively implement policies to support the city’s long-term fiscal health.  An important element of the study’s recommendation is to prioritize key economic development opportunities that will provide amenities for residents, create job opportunities, and generate city revenue.

Community Engagement

Our two biggest summer festivals, Downtown Block Party and the Festival at Mt. Si, were back this summer and they were grand! July and August brought us a fireworks show, a parade, live music, local art and longstanding traditional community events. 

I anticipate seeing both familiar and new faces at the September 14^th Sip Suds and Si walk, our popular event downtown that shares art, wine and beer tasting and of course, local shopping.

In September, I began a series of outreach opportunities called Meet up with the Mayor, where I invite residents to stop by a North Bend business and connect with me. If you could not make it, do not worry! There will be more.

As always, I am honored to serve this community. The next time you step outside, please join me in taking a deep breath, and breathing in that clean, mountain town air. Happy fall, North Bend!

Sincerely,

Mayor Mary

2024 marks the City’s first summer in restricting the personal use of aerial fireworks, joining King County and many other cities in an effort to decrease fire risk and danger to people and animals.

The ordinance bans the personal use of aerial fireworks within North Bend city limits, removing “special fireworks” from the definition of those authorized for sale, use, discharge, and possession within the City. To provide law enforcement consistency for Snoqualmie-North Bend Police, the ordinance is modeled closely after the City of Snoqualmie’s 2016 fireworks ordinance.

Although the new amendment to the Fireworks Code was passed by the Council in December, 2022, (NBMC 8.20.010), the State of Washington requires that fireworks ordinances such as these must wait one year after adoption to take effect, so the amendment took effect in December, 2023.

During the December 6, 2022, City Council meeting, Councilmembers shared a wide range of viewpoints on the topic of fireworks, recognizing their use as a valued tradition for many, and acknowledging the danger fireworks pose to people, animals, homes and businesses, and surrounding forests.

While personal use of aerial fireworks is prohibited within city limits, the ordinance allows for community fireworks events.

What is allowed

• Ground fireworks

• Hand-held sparkling devices

• Smoke devices

What is not allowed: “Special fireworks” means any fireworks, generally large, not designed primarily for sale at retail to the public during prescribed dates and which produce visible or audible effects through combustion, deflagration, or detonation, and which must comply with federal regulations pursuant to the rules of the State Fire Marshal relating to fireworks and are classified as Class B explosives by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

• Aerial devices including bottle rockets and missiles

• Firecrackers (illegal statewide)

• Explosive devices (illegal statewide)

Looking for upcoming events in the Snoqualmie Valley with fireworks?

• July 4: Red, White and BOOM
• July 4: The Carnation 4^th of July Celebration
• August 10 – 11: The Festival at Mt. Si

On June 17, the City of North Bend celebrated the completion of its largest ever capital project, Wastewater Treatment Plant High Priority Improvements. This critically important infrastructure investment supports the health and well-being of residents, city staff, and our local environment.

Former and current elected officials, city staff, the SnoValley Chamber of Commerce and the North Bend Downtown Foundation, Trane Technologies, the State Department of Enterprise Services, Gray and Osborne and other project partners joined in cutting the ceremonial red ribbon on Monday. Speakers included Public Works Director Mark Rigos, PE, City Engineer Don DeBerg, PE, City Administrator David Miller, Manager Jeff Leamon, State Representative Lisa Callan, former Councilmember Ross Loudenback and Mayor Mary Miller.

“This is a momentous day for North Bend – not only for our residents, nonprofit organizations and business owners, but also for the Snoqualmie River, the wildlife that lives amongst it, and for city staff, the frontline workers who are here every day maintaining this essential piece of infrastructure,” commented Mayor Miller.

The high priority improvements project cost $38 million, with funding supplied through General Facility Charges, revenue bonds, and rate paying residents. 

“This investment by our taxpayers is incredibly valuable. Without trust and involvement in our local government, we could never bring to fruition an upgrade of this magnitude,” commented Mayor Miller.

Wastewater treatment facilities are essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem, preventing disease, and ensuring safe water for our community. Improvements to North Bend’s facility include:

• A new headworks
• A second oxidation ditch
• Two clarifiers
• A new UV/electrical building
• A new aerobic digester
• A new screw press
• Safety improvements and underground piping

These improvements also add the ability to take additional capacity, such as the Meadowbrook Sewer Utility Local Improvement District, a ULID that will expand public sewer throughout the western portion of the City. Approximately 80 percent of residents are currently connected to the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), with about 20 percent remaining on private septic drain fields.

During the ceremony, Public Works Director Mark Rigos acknowledged the hard work of many project partners, city officials, and staff who were instrumental in analysis, design, management, construction, inspection, and contract negotiation, ultimately resulting in cost savings of about $20 million.

Frontage improvements are anticipated to begin along Bendigo Blvd/Highway 202 following the installation and connection of the Meadowbrook Sewer ULID pipe by 2026.

Want to learn about how local wastewater treatment works in North Bend? Please stay tuned for opportunities to tour the WWTP! For more information about the High Priority Improvements Project, please visit www.northbendwa.gov/306/Wastewater-Treatment-Plant-HPI-Project.

Pictured here: Former Councilmember Ross Loudenback, Mayor Mary Miller, city staff, State Representative Lisa Callan and project partners cut the ceremonial ribbon on June 17.

Pictured here: Mayor Miller speaks about the importance of the Wastewater Treatment Plant High Priority Improvements Project.

Pictured here: Public Works Director Mark Rigos, PE, speaks about the importance of the Wastewater Treatment Plant High Priority Improvements Project.

North Bend’s 21^st mayor, Mary Miller, was publicly sworn in by City Clerk Susie Oppedal during the January 2, 2024, City Council Meeting. Her term began on January 1.

Since moving to North Bend in 1991, Mayor Miller has been an active participant in local government and economic development. She served on the City Council for four years, until her term expired on December 31, 2023. Mayor Miller also served as 2023 Chairs of the Community and Economic Development Committee, and the Transportation and Public Works Committee. Prior to serving as a City Councilmember, she served on the City’s Planning Commission from 2016 through 2019.

She was instrumental in both the creation and growth of the North Bend Downtown Foundation, now in existence for over a decade. In addition, Mayor Miller served in 2023 as the liaison to the City’s Economic Development Commission.

Mayor Miller raised two children in the Snoqualmie Valley School District, and has been an active, engaged citizen since making her home in North Bend 32 years ago. Additionally, she continues to volunteer for a variety of Snoqualmie Valley organizations, including serving on the Northwest Railway Museum’s Board and the Snoqualmie Valley Historical Museum Board, as well as serving as Vice President of the Snoqualmie Valley Governments Association. She is also an alternate to the Snoqualmie Watershed Forum.

In addition to volunteering in local schools and for community events, Mayor Miller captured many local, historic moments as the city photographer from 2009 to 2020. In addition to her professional experience as a freelance photographer, Mayor Miller has worked in the construction industry promoting traffic safety and emphasizing the significance of nurturing a robust infrastructure.

“I thank the community immensely for your incredible support that brought me to this position as your mayor. Over the next four years, I will endeavor to work tirelessly on your behalf with great thought, determination, and hope for the future of our wonderful City,” she said.

Watch the swearing-in ceremony by viewing the January 2, 2024 City Council meeting recording, which can be found at www.northbendwa.gov/civicmedia. 

Pictured here: Mayor Mary Miller being sworn in by City Clerk Susie Oppedal at the January 2, 2024, City Council meeting.

Beginning Thursday, December 21, the City of North Bend will join King County and many other cities in restricting the personal use of aerial fireworks.

The ordinance bans the personal use of aerial fireworks within North Bend city limits, removing “special fireworks” from the definition of those authorized for sale, use, discharge, and possession within the City. To provide law enforcement consistency for Snoqualmie-North Bend Police, the ordinance is modeled closely after the City of Snoqualmie’s 2016 fireworks ordinance.

In December, 2022, North Bend City Councilmembers approved an ordinance amending the City’s Fireworks Code, NBMC 8.20.010. Although the new ordinance was passed by the Council in 2022, the State of Washington requires that fireworks ordinances such as these must wait one year after adoption to take effect.

During the December 6, 2022, City Council meeting, Councilmembers shared a wide range of viewpoints on the topic of fireworks, recognizing their use as a valued tradition for many, and acknowledging the danger fireworks pose to people, animals, homes and businesses, and surrounding forests.

While personal use of aerial fireworks will be prohibited within city limits, the ordinance allows for community fireworks events.

What is allowed, once the ordinance goes into effect

• Ground fireworks
• Hand-held sparkling devices
• Smoke devices

What is not allowed, once the ordinance goes into effect: “Special fireworks” means any fireworks, generally large, not designed primarily for sale at retail to the public during prescribed dates and which produce visible or audible effects through combustion, deflagration, or detonation, and which must comply with federal regulations pursuant to the rules of the State Fire Marshal relating to fireworks and are classified as Class B explosives by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

• Aerial devices including bottle rockets and missiles
• Firecrackers (illegal statewide)
• Explosive devices (illegal statewide)