Issaquah Mayor Fred Butler delivered his first “state of the city” report at the Feb. 18 City Council meeting, outlining four areas of interest.
He said two months into the job, he is focused on maintaining momentum for a sustainable future with smart growth for Issaquah.
His four points begin with providing exceptional customer service. He said Issaquah is an exceptionally safe city with community policing at its best. He gave high praise to both the Issaquah Police Department and to Eastside Fire and Rescue. Customer service also extends to the city’s online customer desk, which he gave high marks.
Continuing to partner with community organizations such as the Issaquah Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Issaquah Association and individual businesses, was his second focal point. Salmon Days, Art Walks and wine tastings all bring visitors to Issaquah, he said.
Issaquah School District’s upcoming capital projects will continue to receive the city’s support he said, as will Village Theatre, artEAST and grant programs that help organizations such as the Issaquah Food and Clothing Bank.
Sustainabilty was Butler’s third point. He said Issaquah is committed to spending $9 per capita per person in 2014. He also would like to see the city have a human resources center.
Referring to the parks bond that passed last November, he said the open space grants will allow the city to acquire public land for preservation for all to enjoy.
Lastly, he spoke of planning for the future. He said the Central Issaquah Plan and the development agreement with Rowley will guide the long-term future for the city’s future on the valley floor. Several projects are already sprouting up including a multi-family residential project at 7th Ave. and Gilman Blvd. which would border Issaquah Creek, and a 120-room extended stay hotel.
He also mentioned the approvals of Bellevue College to build a campus in the Issaquah Highlands, and Swedish to extend its campus for more medical offices.
“The state of the city is strong thanks to strong leadership and planning,” Butler said.
