Renton Reporter, July 17, 2025 by Sound Publishing

More lane closures coming for Rainier Avenue corridor

By Drew Dotson drew.dotson@rentonreporter.com

Travelers along the Rainier Avenue corridor in Renton should still expect lane closures and detours as the latest phase of the 20-year construction project comes to a close.

Late summer will bring major road paving and inevitably closures to Rainier Avenue. Renton

Transportation Division Director Jim Seitz said they should be done with phase 4 of the Rainier Avenue Project by the end of the year.

Beginning June 30, the intersection at Rainier Avenue South and South Second Street will temporarily operate as a three-way stop for the next month. Police officers will be stationed during the day to help direct traffic and ensure safety while work is underway on

the traffic signal and rebuilding the concrete road over the Seattle Public Utilities waterlines, according to the city. Northbound traffic will be diverted to Lake Avenue South and southbound traffic will be diverted to Shattuck Avenue South.

Seitz said Rainier Avenue is one of the older regional corridors around the Puget Sound and he estimated it was built in the 1920s.

He said in the early 2000s, the Renton City Council began looking at ways to improve the corridor for the future.

“It was built for a different time, different type of vehicles,” Seitz said. “We really needed to modernize the corridor.”

Seitz said they were experiencing high accident rates along the corridor at the time because vehicles trying to access businesses

Surf’s up at The Kids’ Dentist in Renton

Named Best Dentist of 2025, The Kids’ Dentist makes an otherwise scary dental visit and fun and inviting time.

Bailey Jo Josie bailey.jo.josie@soundpublishing.com

The Kids’ Dentist is this year’s winner in the Best of Renton awards, and just walking up to the doors of their main Renton office makes this win an obvious one.

A beachy, nautical theme complete with Disney-inspired sea animals everywhere, a themepark level surfboard and ship to play on, and even an interactive screen to play simple, fun games turns what’s traditionally a scary dentist appointment into something inviting and kid-friendly — and this is just the lobby.

When Dr. Brian Dansie moved to the Pacific Northwest with his family, he decided to buy the The Kids’ Dentist, which had been a longtime pediatric dental practice in Renton. Before, everything was more teddy bear themed until it was decided that a ocean theme would appeal to more people.

“It just sets the tone. A dental visit usually starts from the moment their kids walk in the door so when kids are going to come in, they’re apprehensive, they’re nervous,” said Dansie. “It’s a new experience and if they come in and now what it looks like is a ride at Disneyland, and that’s what they’re starting off with, then they get anticipation instead of anxiety.”

Making sure young kids are as comfortable as possible is important for a pediatric dentist office, and at The Kids’ Dentist, every patient is given a friendly greeting at the front desk, with assistants also welcoming them and saying their names to make them feel safe.

“We use terminology that’s very safe and it feels fun for kids when we’re talking about anything

gentle,” said Dansie. “And then the dentist comes in and says, ‘Hi’ and by then, if we’ve done it right, they’re already excited to see the dentist because [the assistants] say, ‘Oh, the dentist is going to come count your teeth’ and the kids are already laying in the chair and they want to see the dentist.”

What also helps make the pediatric dental office more inviting for kids is the fact that nobody on the staff wears a white coat — Dansie was wearing a Hawaiian shirt during the interview for this story — and how the dentists and staff talk patients through procedures that may be painful or scary to them.

“I show them what they can expect and a lot of times they’re scared because they don’t know what it’s going to feel like, but they’ve probably heard that there’s going to be a shot,” said Dr. Krisha Misa. “The type of local anesthetic that I use doesn’t even look like a shot. It looks like a little

their parents

along the corridor. He said the five lanes along the corridor were also not enough to accommodate the vehicles and transit on the road.

“Transit has really evolved in the Puget Sound area. We have a lot more buses on the road today and even back then,” Seitz said. “In the future we are going to have a new transit center right there on

Man goes to trial for 2021 domestic violence murder

By Joshua Solorzano joshua.solorzano@rentonreporter.com

A man accused of a 2021 Renton fatal shooting of a woman he was romantically involved with is taking his second-degree murder charge to trial, citing a self-defense argument.

On July 15, the trial began for Covington man Vaughn Weems, 42, who is accused of seconddegree domestic violence murder with a firearm. Prosecutors allege that Weems’ actions on Aug. 21, 2021, when he fatally shot Montisha Offord, warrant a verdict of guilty.

According to charging documents, at about 2:19 a.m. the day of Offord’s death, Weems and Offord were arguing in the parking lot of the Echo Mountain Apartments, 2223 Benson Road South. After Offord said that she would pepper spray Weems, she pulled out a pepper spray canister, and Weems shot her once before driving away from the scene. According to documents, two friends who were with Offord then drove her to Valley Medical Center, where she died about an hour after suffering a gunshot wound to her chest.

Weems and his attorney, Emily Gause, cited that Weems thought the canister of pepper spray that Offord produced looked like a gun, and the shooting was warranted lethal self-defense.

Prosecutor statements

King County prosecutor Carly Bradley said that the day of Offord’s death,OffordandWeemshadbeen hanging out at a family barbecue in Seattle. After it was over, they and other friends went to the Cheers Bar and Grill in Renton. Bradley said that at the bar, Offord and Weems began to argue again, but eventually, Weems started driving Offord back to her home. It was during that ride that Weems then kicked her out and left her at a gas station. Offord then called another friend, who brought her home at the Echo Mountain Apartments. Bradley said it was there that Weems arrived in his vehicle, and began to argue with again Offord. Weems then got out of the car, and Offord took steps away from him before she said she would pepper spray him, and he then shot her once.

Weems then got in his car and fled. It took 41 days for officers to find Weems and arrest him, according to Bradley.

Bradley said that when Weems shot Offord, the only threat she posed was pepper spray and a bruisedego.Shesaidthatwitnesses to the event will tell the jury they clearly saw that Offord was holding pepper spray, Weems pushed Offord before he shot her, Offord was shot from a distance, not close

See RAINIER, Page 10

PHOTO BY BAILEY JO JOSIE/SOUND PUBLISHING

Owner Dr. Brian Dansie and Dr. Krisha Misa outside the office of The Kids’ Dentist Renton.

PHOTOS BY BAILEY JO JOSIE/SOUND PUBLISHING

Filled with games, a play area and a colorful environment, this pediatric dental office puts kids at ease as soon as they walk through the door.

Portholes in the wall allows kids to look in on the dentists doing their work.

Liberty student named National Merit Scholarship winner

Bailey Jo Josie bailey.jo.josie@soundpublishing.com

Sanat Pillai of Liberty High School is one of 7,100 National MeritScholarshipwinnersfor2025.

Pillai, who plans on studying mathematics, is one of nearly 800 additional winners of the scholarships, which are financed by colleges and universities. Pillai’s scholarship comes from University of Texas at Dallas. The previous award recipients were announced

July 17

Café Vets: Monthly gathering of veterans and guests for coffee and refreshments hosted by Renton American Legion Post 19 and Auxiliary Unit 19 on the third Thursday of every month (except December) from 10 a.m. to noon. Come for coffee, camaraderie and goodies. Post Hall is in the Renton Highlands, under the water tower (3224 Northeast 12th Street).

July 19

Renton Community Cleanup at Gateway Park: Help make downtown a cleaner place with the Renton Downtown Partnership, Norther Renton Neighborhood Association and South Renton Connection from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Trash bags, trash pickers, safety vests, gloves, snacks and beverages will be provided. Be sure to wear weather appropriate clothes, sunscreen and bring a water bottle, plus family and friends! Email north.renton@ gmail.com or visit northrenton. org/nrna-news/upcoming-events for more information. Meet at 528 South 3rd Street. Free Museum Day at the Renton History Museum: Enjoy the wonders of the past with free admission to the museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free museum days are every first Wednesday and third Saturday of each month. Located at 235 Mill Avenue South in Renton.

in June. From a July 14 announcement, officials of each sponsor college selected their winners from among the finalists of the National Merit Scholarship Program. These college-sponsored awards provide between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergrad study.

Other Washington state winners come from high schools in Vashon, Bainbridge Island, Bellevue, Kirkland, Bellingham, Seattle, Mill

July 22

Creek, Redmond and Tukwila. Liberty High School’s Jonathon T. Chiu and Rachel M. Kollarmalil were also named National Merit $2,5000 Scholarship winners in May 2025.

This year’s competition for National Merit Scholarships began when high school juniors took the 2023 Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screen of program entrants. In September 2024, more than

16,000 semifinalists were named on a state-representational basis in numbers proportional to each state’s percentage of the national total of graduating high school seniors. Semifinalists were the highest scoring program entrants in each state and represented less than one percent of the nation’s seniors.

To become a finalist, each semifinalist had to complete a detailed scholarship application, which included writing an essay,

RENTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Renton Farmers Market: The city farmers market is back with a new location on Williams Avenue South between South 2nd Street and South 3rd Street and will continue every Tuesday from 3 to 7 p.m. until September. Along with vendors, the Washington State University’s Master Gardeners will be there each week to answer garden-related questions.

July 25-27

Renton River Days Festival: The free annual community festival runs July 25-27 across a connected festival campus that includes Cedar River Park, Liberty Park, Renton Community Center. In 2024, nearly 25,000 people attended for food, activities, live music, a parade, drone light show and more. Learn more at rentonwa.gov/riverdays.

July 29

Renton Reporter Read-AllAbout-It at Rosie Rourke Team: The Renton Reporter invites you to join the paper from 6 to 7:30 p.m. atanewlocationforsomeinformal conversation and snacks. Special guest speaker will be Di Zhang, a Renton Technical College librarian who does workshops on media literacy and fake news. You’ll be able to ask the newspaper staff about their work and their recent stories, learn how to support local journalism and just talk about all things Renton. This event takes

place on the last Tuesday of each month. Rosie Rourke Team is located at 16333 Southeast Petrovitsky Road in Renton.

July 31

Family Fun: Sing Your Song concert with Keeth Apgar at Tiffany Park: In partnership with King County Library System, the City of Renton and the Renton School District, this free kidfriendly event begins at 11 a.m. with special guest Keeth Apgar. Located at 1902 Lake Youngs Way Southeast.

City of Renton Recreation presents Summer Concerts at Coulon Park: This free musical concert series returns to the Kidd Valley Stage at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. where you can enjoy the music of Scott Lindenmuth. Located at 1201 Lake Washington Boulevard North.

Aug. 6

FamilyFun:JeffEvans’Secrets ofWizardsShowatLibertyPark: In partnership with King County Library System, the City of Renton and the Renton School District, this free kid-friendly event begins at noon with special guest Jeff Evans. Located at 1101 Bronson Way North.

Aug. 9

RentonCommunityPicnic:The South Renton Connection (SRC)

and North Renton Neighborhood Association (NRNA) are hosting a free community picnic 1 to 4 p.m.

Aug. 9 at Burnett Linear Park, 502 Burnett Avenue South. Meet your neighbors and enjoy free food, music, activities and more hosted by South Renton Connection and North Renton Neighborhood Association. RSVP at bit.ly/RentonPicnic. All are welcome.

Aug. 14

Family Fun: Music in the Park with Marco Cortes at Kiwanis Park: In partnership with King County Library System, the City of Renton and the Renton School District, this free kid-friendly event begins at 11:30 a.m. with special guest Marco Cortes. Located at 815 Union Avenue Northest. City of Renton Recreation presents Summer Concerts at Coulon Park: This free musical concert series returns to the Kidd Valley Stage at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. where you can enjoy the music ofBetween 2 Gregs. Located at 1201 Lake Washington Boulevard North.

Aug. 19

Project Be Free presents Family Resource Night at VFW Post 1263: From 3-7 p.m., get connected with nonprofits and organizations throughout Renton and South King County that provide counseling, legal support, support groups, youth mentorship

describing leadership positions and contributions in school and community activities, showing an outstanding academic record, and beingendorsedandrecommended by a high school official. Semifinalists also had to take the SAT or ACT and earn scores that confirmed their performance on the initial qualifying test. From the semifinalist group, over 15,000 attained finalist standing, and about half of the finalists were chosen to receive National Merit Scholarships.

and more. This free event takes place every month on the third Tuesday. VFW Post 1263 is located at 416 Burnett Avenue South. Call 425-324-5030 or visit project-befree.com.

Sept. 9

The Renton American Legion Fred Hancock Post 19 Business Meeting: The Renton American Legion Fred Hancock Post 19 meets the second Tuesday of every month, except July and August, at 7 p.m. at the Post Hall, 3224 NE 12th Street, in the Renton Highlands, under the water tower. All veterans welcome.

Saturdays

RentonParkrunatCedarRiver Trail: This weekly 5K community event takes place every Saturday at 9 a.m. at the Cedar River Trail trailhead by the I-405 overpass. This free event does require registration but is meant to be a fun event where walkers, joggers, runners, volunteers and spectators can come together. For more information, visit parkruns.us/renton/ and the exact coordinates of the event are 47.4802N, -122.199W.

Have a Renton-related event coming up? Want to submit your own photo to be featured with the calendar? Email baileyjo.josie@ rentonreporter.com to submit a Renton-based public event or photo to be included in our weekly events calendar.

Renton seeks eminent domain for land near Cedar River Park

By Drew Dotson drew.dotson@rentonreporter.com

The city of Renton is planning to acquire land for expanding the property of Cedar River Park through the use of eminent domain.

At the July 14 Renton City Council meeting, the council approved a first reading of an ordinance to obtain King County

parcel 1723059026 — a 546,121 square-foot lot used for heavy industry — through the use of eminent domain.

The land is adjacent to Cedar River Park Drive and Maple Valley Highway.

This parcel was identified in the Tri-Park Master Plan in 2006, with updates in 2011 and 2020, as being necessary to complete the city’s plan to expand Cedar River Park. According to the agenda bill, after the city expressed interest in acquiring the property, the property owner requested that the sale be done under the threat of eminent domain for the tax benefits involved in such a sale. In order to do this, the city must pass an ordinance for the eminent domain and hold a public hearing.

RENTON POLICE BLOTTER

Public drug use: At about 1:12 p.m. July 8 at the Renton Library, officers were dispatched to drug activities in progress. The reporting party stated there were two subjects doing drugs on the bridge, outside of the library, under a black umbrella. Officers arrived and viewed one of the suspects actively doing drugs. Probable cause was developed for unlawful public dangerous drug activities, and the subject was cited and released at the scene. Charges will be forwarded to the prosecutor’s office.

Domesticviolencerobbery:

At about 12:14 p.m. July 9 in the 17600 block of 112th Ave. SE, an officer was dispatched to a domestic violence report via phone. The victim stated that in the morning, she and her ex-husband got into a dispute. He then threatened her with bodily harm if she did not turn over her phone to him. She gave him her phone and hid in the bathroom. Later, after he left, she discovered that he had transferred $3,000 from her cash account to his account.

The officer established probable cause and determined the male suspect committed robbery by unlawfully taking her personal property against her will by the threatened use of immediate force. The report has been forwarded to detectives for filing charges.

Child pornography case:

This is a child pornography case that was assigned to the department via a cybercrime tipline. The case was assigned to one of the department’s detectives on July 14, so there is no further information at this time regarding suspect information or if charges can be filed, the department said.

Shooting: At about 5:28 p.m. July 11 near the transit center in the 200 block of Burnett Avenue South, officers responded to a shooting. One victim was treated at the scene for a gunshot wound and transported to the hospital by Renton Regional Fire Authority. Charges against the suspect are pending with prosecutors.

Male assaulted by two others: At 8 p.m. July 11 at the intersection of Main Avenue South and South 3rd Street, officers were dispatched to an assault in progress. While en route, dispatch relayed that a witness was reporting that one male was on the ground being assaulted by two other males. After arriving to the scene, officers established that there was a domestic element to this incident, as the victim and suspect were brothers. Probable cause was established for the suspect’s arrest for the crime of fourth-degree domestic violence assault. The suspect was placed into custody without incident and booked into SCORE jail.

The public hearing is scheduled for July 21, during the reuglar city council meeting, which starts at 7 p.m. at Renton City Hall. The current owner, SRMRenton LLC, acquired the property in 2017. A section of the ordinance states it is anticipated the owner will “affirm that no individual or business occupies the Real Property being acquired and therefore no individual or business will be

displaced by the City’s Project” under the terms of the purchase and sale agreement.

The ordinance also says the compensation for the property will be paid by the city’s general fund or “or from such other monies that the city may have available or attain for the acquisition.” The appraised value of the land is $7,918,700, according to the King County assessor.

Medicaid cuts projected to heavily impact, strain local hospitals

84 hospitals across the state — including those in Renton, Federal Way, Auburn, Snoqualmie, Enumclaw and more — are expected to continually lose millions in Medicaid revenue.

Bailey Jo Josie bailey.jo.josie@soundpublishing.com

Data from the National Academy for State Health Policy shows that Washington state hospitals could lose at least $662 million in Medicaid revenue — called Apple Health in Washington — a year after the recent Republican-led “megabill” was signed into law on July 4 by President Donald Trump.

In a July 14 press release, Rep. Adam Smith of the 9th Congressional District — which covers Seattle, Mercer Island, part of Bellevue and goes as far south as Federal Way and Auburn — called the bill a “cruel and calculated attack on working families.” Smith also shared an interactive map of the hospitals in King and Pierce counties that will be affected by the massive cuts.

“Republicans in Congress are asking our hospitals to do more with less — to serve uninsured patients without the resources to keep the lights on,” said Smith. “The people of Renton, Auburn, South Seattle and Federal Way deserve better than a budget that guts their health care system.”

According to the data, the

South King County hospitals that are projected to have cuts to hospitals revenues are Valley Medical Center in Renton, St. Francis in Federal Way, Multicare Auburn Medical Center in Auburn, St. Elizabeth Hospital in Enumclaw, Snoqualmie Valley Hospital in Snoqualmie, Multicare Covington Medical Center in Covington and Swedish Medical Center in Issaquah.

Overall cuts are expected in 84 hospitals across the entire state, with a statewide revenue loss percentage of 2.59%.

Projected revenue losses in South King County hospitals are as follows: ■ Valley Medical Center in Renton: $23,446,544

■ Multicare Auburn Medical Center in Auburn: $8,768,075

■ St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way: $8,582,591

■ Swedish Medical Center in Issaquah: $4,362,163

■ Multicare Covington Medical Center in Covington: $3,817,735

■ St. Elizabeth Hospital in Enumclaw: $1,789,440

■ Snoqualmie Valley Hospital in Snoqualmie: $773,092

As detailed in a May 2025 report from the health policy nonprofit organization KFF (formerly Kaiser Family Foundation, which has no relation to Kaiser Permanente), 1.86 million Washingtonians are enrolled in Apple Health, 39% of which are children.

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), cuts to Medicaid would “increase the number of uninsured Americans” and that coverage losses would lead to “higher uncompensated care costs, further straining the ability of hospitals to provide high-quality care” along with major job losses in the health care industry.” “Hospitals in the Ninth District serve some of the most diverse and economically vulnerable communities in the state. Slashing Medicaid puts their care at risk and places enormous strain on our local health systems,” said Smith.

PHOTO BY BAILEY JO JOSIE/SOUND PUBLISHING Valley Medical Center in Renton.

Wacky weather conspiracy theorists strike again

The initial news was grim enough on its own: flash flooding in Central Texas had taken dozens of lives, with many victims still missing. According to Weather.com, the devastating flooding rushed in during the middle of the night on July 3, surging into people’s homes in the wee hours of July 4. Many of the victims and missing were from Camp Mystic, a private, all-girls summer camp near the Guadalupe River in Texas.

Then Kandiss Taylor, a Republican congressional candidate from Georgia, stepped out of the shadows and added her bit. In posts on X (formerly Twitter), she suggested the flooding was the result of Democratic “cloud

ROBERT WHALE WHALE’S TALES

seeding, geoengineering and manipulation,” which she called “Fake weather. Real Damage.”

“If fake weather causes real tragedy,” Taylor declared, “that’s murder.”

I could hardly believe what my eyes were telling me. And I was not alone. Soon her claims

were met with sharp backlash from commentators and public figures, including prominent members of her own party. But she refused to take any of what she’d said back — indeed, dug in her heels, characterizing anyone who dared question or criticize her as “brainwashed zombies.”

Apparently, Taylor’s lust for scalps was sharpened by congressional Democrats who’d questioned the Trump Administration’s recent talk about eliminating the National Weather Service and the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration, among other weather watchdog agencies, because they were too expensive to maintain, and were, moreover,

useless. Here’s my problem. As far back as I can remember, history and science books have told us that rain, catastrophic or not, and droughts and floods have been natural phenomena on this planet ever since there’s been life on it, and well before that. Indeed, without it, there would be no life at all.

So, just when did we start trying to score political points based on the weather? Accusing our ideological opponents of engineering human tragedy?

Several months ago, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia suggested that dastardly Democratic cloud-seeding had been behind Hurricane Helene.

And while cloud seeding has

been practiced for years, the weather folks say it only affects tiny areas, and it would be absolutely impossible for it to kick up a giant storm, spread out over such a area, and aim the water cannon at a state based on ideological differences.

When did we start electing to Congress people who promulgate such obvious whoppers? And when did so many of us become so gullible as to believe them?

And more important, when is all this going to end, or is this how it’s going to be from here on out?

Robert Whale can be reached at robert.whale@soundpublishing.com.

Civics Bee highlights the leaders of a bright future

By Kris Johnson Association of Washington Business

As Maanha Nasir of Snoqualmie took the stage at last month’s National Civics Bee state championship, she spoke to judges and audience members with the confidence and thoroughly researched ideas of a visionary leader. She talked passionately about her proposed solutions to public school funding inequalities. She even had a smart acronym for her proposal: the Washington Initiative for Student Equity. Or, she told the crowd with a grin, “Project WISE.”

As she strode across the stage with microphone in hand, detailing fixes to problems she saw in her community and state, it was hard to believe that this poised speaker with nuanced public policy ideas is still in middle school.

But yes, she and the other finalists in Washington’s third-annual

statewide civics competition are, at oldest, barely teenagers.

Still, they have thoughtful suggestions to improve our society, fortified by deep knowledge of our country’s founding documents, laws and best aspirations.

As we look ahead to the 2026 celebration of America’s 250th birthday, these students are a heartening sign that America has strong leaders rising up to take their place in leadership and service.

The National Civics Bee is a project of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. In Washington state, the AWB Institute works with chambers of commerce around the state to host local competitions and then a statewide championship.

Employers are honored to help support a vibrant civic life to keep our communities and nation strong.

This year we had able and energetic partners in the local chambers of commerce in Vancouver,

Kent, Stilly Valley and Walla Walla who helped us with a multifaceted competition.

It began when hundreds of students across the state wrote essays with detailed proposals for a solution to a problem in their community.

The top essay writers were invited to compete in local quiz competitions on the Constitution, federal laws, Supreme Court decisions and other pieces of civic history.

Finally, they gave persuasive talks on their solutions and answered questions from judges.

All 15 finalists who made it to the statewide competition in Olympia on June 21 were impressive. Our three winners, who took home cash prizes ranging from $1,000 to $250, were rock stars.

As the first-place winner, Maanha will also receive tickets to fly with a parent to Washington, D.C., for the second-annual National Civics Bee championship in November.

“I know that as a citizen, an individual and a student, I will never be the same again,” Maanha said about the impact of taking part in the National Civics Bee.

As an interesting sidenote, Maanha, who is a student in Washington Virtual Academies, is close friends with last year’s state winner. Ilyannie Gonzalez, also a remarkable young talent, placed in the top 10 last year at the inaugural National Civics Bee championship.

This year’s second-place state award went to Sara Akmel, a student at Mill Creek Middle School. She spoke about ways to support after-school programs, which have been transformational in her life.

Third place went to Calista Christiansen, a homeschool student who talked about the need for safe, legal access to a popular Columbia River beach near her home in Lyle. Hearing each of these students

speak so clearly and compellingly about needs in their community is an inspiration.

Morgan Irwin, a former police officer and state legislator now serving as AWB’s vice president of government affairs, congratulated all the winners and finalists in this year’s competition.

He brought in the perspective of another young leader.

Ariana Wilson, an Olympia High School graduate now studying at Cal Poly Humboldt, is working as an intern in AWB’s communications department this year. After watching this year’s National Civics Bee competition, she said something that Irwin shared with the crowd: “It’s like we’re seeing the future through their eyes.”

It’s a bright future indeed.

Kris Johnson is president of the Association of Washington Business, the state’s chamber of commerce and manufacturers association.

By Drew Dotson drew.dotson@rentonreporter.com

Each candidate for three Renton City Council primary races received a questionnaire with identical questions. Their answers are below and unedited. Ballots for the primaries were mailed out on July 16. The 2025 primary election is Aug. 5. Renton City Council Position No. 1

James Alberson Jr. (incumbent)

Q: Why do you want to be a Renton City Councilmember?

A: I’m seeking re-election to the City Council to continue supporting common-sense solutions and decisions that improve public safety, support housing affordability, and create economic growth and opportunity for the Renton community.

Q: What’s the biggest problem or challenge facing the city and how would you propose to handle that issue?

A: The greatest challenge we face is successfully addressing illicit drug use and crimerelated activities, both of which undermine public safety. I support the city’s effort to increase the level of accountability and consequences for drug and criminal activity. Additionally, I support the coming efforts to put a system in place that reduces encampment activity and moves the homeless into a pathway to recovery.

Q: What is one way in which the city council can improve or what has been a shortcoming of the current city council?

A: My focus will be on increasing the level of communication with the community to ensure that incorrect or insufficient information is not the only information members of the community receive from sources outside of the city who have questionable agendas. The lack of a comprehensive understanding of challenges, scenarios, and situations seen by the public have led many to false conclusions about how problems are being addressed by the Council and the City. My goal is to ensure that the true facts are made available to be included in the public discourse.

Michael Westgaard

Q: Why do you want to be a Renton City Councilmember?

A: I’m running for Renton City Council to tackle the cost-of-living crisis crushing working families in our community. As a wastewater treatment operator, SEIU 925 shop steward, and as a member of the Raise the Wage Renton campaign, I’ve fought for working people both on the job and in our community. Now I want to bring that fight to City Hall. We need action on both sides of this crisis: raising pay through strong worker protections while simultaneously addressing the soaring costs of housing, transportation, and other necessities. My lived experience as a frontline worker and proven track record of delivering results — from winning union contracts to minimum wage hikes — gives me the unique perspective Renton needs to build an economy that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few.

Q: What’s the biggest problem or challenge facing the city and how would you propose to handle that issue?

A: Housing affordability

is just one part of a larger cost-of-living emergency squeezing Renton workers that I will address as follows:

1. Protect Minimum Wage: Rentonites won the highest minimum wage in the country in 2024 through the Raise the Wage Renton ballot initiative. City council and big business interests have talked about rolling back our new minimum wageI will oppose those efforts and protect and enforce this important victory for workers.

2. Lower Cost of Housing and Transportation: This will take ideas that the city council is not even talking about: building social housing, taxing vacant land, enacting renter protections, and developing our city to be walkable and bikeable, with a transit-oriented transportation system making car ownership a choice rather than a necessity.

3. Public Safety Beyond Criminal Justice: Making the city more affordable for working people will allow us to focus on public safety as a quality of life issue, not merely a crime and punishment issue. We can focus resources on the harder problems that take time to address like mental health support and stopping cycles of violence in our communities.

Q: What is one way in which the city council can improve or what has been a shortcoming of the current city council?

A: The current council majority has prioritized corporate interests — from Walmart to Boeing — over the workers that make Renton run. This plays out in a failed transit system, poor public safety, and a crisis of affordability.

As a Democratic Socialist, I practice direct democracy — three years of door-knocking has shown me that residents feel ignored by the government as they struggle to scrape by. On council, I’ll change this by:

1. Demanding Sound Transit equity while building a walkable and bikeable Renton.

2. Creating public options for housing and utilities to reduce costs

3. Enforce the minimum wage and other protections for workers.

My record from wage fights to wastewater union bargaining proves I deliver for workers, not corporations.

GwendolynHoseaMimms did not reply to the questionnaire.

Renton City Council

Position No. 2

Mary Clymer

Q: Why do you want

to be a Renton City Councilmember?

A: Because I love this town! I grew up surrounded by neighbors, teachers, and community members who cared, and now it’s my time to give back. I’ve owned a small business downtown (Happy Delusions), worked for other Renton businesses, and built real connections with people across the city. That led me to chair the Renton River Days Art Market, serve on the Renton Arts Commission, and become an active volunteer. Being part of Renton’s positive growth feels like a natural next step.

Q: What’s the biggest problem or challenge facing the city and how would you propose to handle that issue?

A: Renton is facing a housing and homelessness crisis. Rising home prices are pushing out our most vulnerable neighbors, while homeless encampments and mental health challenges continue to grow. These issues are closely tied to public safety and social services, and with state budget cuts looming, the pressure is only increasing.

We need a council that supports and expands behavioral health and homelessness programs, so everyone feels safe and supported. That means investing in community-centered projects that avoid displacement, prioritize transparency, and keep our neighborhoods vibrant.

As our population grows, we must tackle housing and transit together, building an inclusive, equitable future where all of Renton can thrive.

Q: What is one way in which the city council can improve or what has been a shortcoming of the current city council?

A: A common concern I hear is the lack of communication and transparency around decisions that directly impact our neighborhoods. Too often, residents feel like choices are made for them, not with them.

The council can improve by creating more accessible and consistent opportunities for public input through better outreach, open dialogue, and clear communication. When people feel heard, they stay engaged—and that’s how we build lasting trust.

Raman Mann

Q: Why do you want to be a Renton City Councilmember?

A: As a Renton City Councilmember, Raman Mann is energized to transform the city he’s proudly called home his entire life. A dynamic small business owner

and passionate community advocate, Raman is determined to tackle critical challenges like public safety, housing affordability, homelessness, and crime with bold, practical solutions. He envisions a thriving, vibrant Renton where every resident has equal opportunities to succeed. Rooted deeply in the community and shaped by diverse life experiences, Raman is uniquely equipped to deliver results through collaboration and innovation. He’s committed to transparent, responsive governance that amplifies all voices and ensures policies reflect Renton’s rich diversity. With a laser focus on strengthening infrastructure, boosting economic vitality, and enhancing community well-being, Raman will build a safer, more inclusive Renton for today and tomorrow. His decisive leadership and unwavering dedication will drive lasting progress for all.

Q: What’s the biggest problem or challenge facing the city and how would you propose to handle that issue?

A: Renton City Council candidate Raman Mann declares public safety as the city’s top priority. He’s passionate that every resident deserves to feel secure in their

City Council

homes, strolling through vibrant parks, or enjoying Renton’s public spaces.

Safe neighborhoods are the heartbeat of a thriving, inclusive community where families flourish, businesses prosper, and visitors eagerly return. Raman is committed to increasing funding for our police department, hiring more officers, and equipping them with cutting-edge training and resources to serve with excellence. His dynamic vision embraces collaborative strategies, partnering with local organizations to tackle crime’s root causes while ensuring safety measures reflect Renton’s diverse needs. By prioritizing resources for law enforcement and

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innovative community safety programs, Raman will tirelessly champion a Renton where everyone feels protected and empowered. As a lifelong resident and passionate advocate, he’ll drive practical, impactful solutions, transforming our streets, parks, and neighborhoods into vibrant, secure spaces for all. With Raman’s upbeat leadership, Renton will shine as a beacon of safety and opportunity for current and future generations.

Q: What is one way in which the city council can improve or what has been a shortcoming of the current city council?

A: There are always opportunities for the council to improve their communication with residents. As a Renton City Councilmember, I would be deeply committed to enhancing my accessibility, transparency, and engagement with our vibrant community to better serve its diverse needs. Accessibility means being available to all residents, ensuring they feel comfortable reaching out with ideas or concerns. I will create opportunities for open dialogue, making it easier for people to connect with me directly through community gatherings. Transparency is at the heart of my approach, as I believe residents deserve to know how and why decisions are made. I will work to share clear, honest information about council activities in ways that are easy to understand and widely available.

COURTESY PHOTO Gwendolyn Hosea-Mimms.

COURTESY PHOTO

Ruth Perez.

COURTESY PHOTO Paul Dutton.

COURTESY PHOTO Carmen Rivera.

COURTESY PHOTO Raman Mann.

COURTESY PHOTO Michael Westgaard.

COURTESY PHOTO James Alberson Jr.

COURTESY PHOTO Mary Clymer.

Candidates

Engagement goes beyond listening—it’s about actively involving the community in shaping our city’s future. By fostering these connections, I aim to build trust and strengthen our community, creating a Renton where every resident feels valued and empowered to participate in our shared journey forward.

Carmen Rivera (incumbent)

Q: Why do you want to be a Renton City Councilmember?

A: I’m running for re-election because Renton deserves leaders who bring real-life experience to the table. Currently, I am the only council member with a background in social services, having worked directly with youth and families navigating some of our state’s and county’s most complex systems. I’ve seen firsthand how policy decisions impact people’s lives, from housing insecurity to gaps in mental health care. Far too often, these policy decisions come from those who have no experience working with some of our most impoverished and marginalized. My voice on the council ensures these realities are not abstract ideas but grounded priorities in our decisionmaking. I’m committed to continuing the work of building a Renton that centers equity, structured compassion, and accountability.

Q: What’s the biggest problem or challenge facing the city and how would you propose to handle that issue?

A: Renton’s biggest challenge is managing our rapid growth in ways that

are inclusive, sustainable, and forward-thinking. Our growth impacts everything; crime, housing, traffic, public transportation, homelessness, and access to services. To meet the moment, we need an interconnected and holistic approach grounded in equity:

• Prioritize fully funding our Human Services Division. Since taking office in 2021, I’ve championed a 65% funding increase because communitybased programs are key to safety and stability.

• As Chair of Public Safety, I’ve worked to ensure our public safety strategies are proactive and transparent. That includes supporting the launch of Renton’s use-of-force dashboard and expanding our co-responder program, Project Be-Free, which responds to non-violent domestic violence calls.

I’ve also supported the addition of 8 new officers.

• We must also expand housing options for working families, as we are doing with Renton Housing Authority and Habitat for Humanity to increase affordable housing.

• Finally, we must improve public transportation and pedestrian access. Through tools like our Transportation Benefit District and regional partnerships with Sound Transit.

All these issues are deeply connected, and addressing them requires bold, coordinated leadership to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. This is the knowledge and experience I bring.

Q: What is one way in which the city council can improve or what has been a shortcoming of the current city council?

A: We must improve our communication with the community. Too often, residents feel that decisions are made without them, or worse, that they don’t know to whom they should turn when they have concerns. I’ve consistently advocated for more transparent processes, open dialogue, and improved outreach, particularly to those who have historically been excluded from civic conversations. Through these efforts, we hosted our first Public Safety Forum at the Carco Theatre last year, featuring the Renton Police Department and the King County Prosecutors’ Office. I would like us to have more open forums and town halls where we can engage with the public. When I meet with residents, I give them 100% of my attention and energy to hear and understand their concerns. This also includes educating our residents around city processes and civic engagement, as we have done through our newly launched City of Renton Civic Academy. Renton is changing, and our council must be more proactive in building trust, meeting people where they are, and making the government feel accessible and accountable to all.

Renton City Council Position No. 6

Paul Dutton

Q: Why do you want to be a Renton City Councilmember?

A: Renton’s future won’t build itself, and right now, too many people are being left behind. As the world grows more uncertain, people here are facing real struggles: rising costs of living, unsafe streets, and housing affordability. I’m stepping up to bring a fresh, community-first

approach to City Hall and challenge the status quo.

I’ve spent 25 years as an engineer working on roads, tunnels, clean water systems, and transit projects that connect people to opportunity and make communities safer and more resilient. But this campaign isn’t about my résumé. It’s about the kind of city I want for my family—my wife, our six kids, and our big, playful dog Molly. It’s about making sure families like ours can afford to stay, can feel safe walking to school, and can trust that someone is looking out for them.

This city is growing quickly, but our systems aren’t keeping up. Traffic, safety, and access issues are impacting families in every neighborhood. I believe we need bold leadership that listens closely, shows up, and delivers real solutions not just more politics. It’s time to build a Renton that’s connected, inclusive, and ready for the future.

Q: What’s the biggest problem or challenge facing the city and how would you propose to handle that issue?

A: Renton is facing several overlapping challenges, rising housing costs, safety concerns, worsening traffic, and a growing disconnect between the city and the people who live here. At the root of these issues is something we rarely name directly: how people move. Transportation isn’t just about roads or transit it’s the backbone of safety, affordability, and opportunity.

When streets are unsafe, it’s harder for kids to get to school or seniors to leave home. When buses don’t run frequently, don’t connect neighborhoods, or when sidewalks are missing, access to work, healthcare, and essentials becomes a real barrier. When roads are gridlocked, emergency vehicles can’t respond in time. And when housing is far from jobs, long, costly commutes wear families down.

We can’t solve these issues in isolation. That’s why my plan starts with reimagining transportation as a tool for equity and safety.

Smarter street design to reduce congestion and make room for emergency vehicles. Walkable neighborhoods with safer crosswalks, better lighting, and traffic-calming measures to protect families. Reliable transit routes, walkable connections, and “last-mile” solutions that help people reach jobs, schools, and healthcare without needing a car.

Transportation shapes how we live so no one gets left behind.

Q: What is one way in which the city council can improve or what has been a shortcoming of the current city council?

A: Too often, people in Renton feel like their voices don’t matter. Safety concerns go unanswered.

Neighborhood needs are overlooked. And families are left waiting wondering when their part of the city will finally be seen, heard, and prioritized. We must have a City Council that leads with transparency, accountability, and urgency. That’s why I support moving to a district-based model so every part of Renton has a seat at the table and power is more equitably shared. We also need leadership that builds stronger partnerships with county, state, and local agencies and holds them accountable to deliver for our residents. And we need to include those who are too often ignored: our unincorporated residents, immigrants, refugees, working families, seniors, LGBTQIA+ residents, and anyone struggling to navigate a city not built for them.

Ruth Pérez (incumbent)

Q: Why do you want to be a Renton City Councilmember?

A: It is a privilege to serve as your Councilmember. I am running for re-election to ensure Renton thrives and builds diverse opportunities for families, small businesses, and future generations. I am passionate about community health and safety, environmental protection, and transportation. Representing the residents of Renton and fighting for our needs has been my top priority for the last 11 years. As a Renton City Councilmember, I have worked to ensure Renton is a place people are proud to call home, focusing on the issues that truly impact Renton residents’ everyday lives – working to ensure a strong economy, bringing more jobs, reducing crime and homelessness, supporting inclusive policies, expanding access to housing, tackling our city’s transportation and traffic issues, and balancing a sustainable municipal budget.

By far the greatest benefit of being Renton City Councilmember is getting to know so many great people. I have worked hard to spend time in every neighborhood in our city. I have been fortunate enough to meet wonderful people in every corner of Renton. Whether it’s responding in a timely manner to your emails or fighting for our community, I get to see and hear about how my work makes a difference in Renton.

Q: What’s the biggest problem or challenge facing the city and how would you propose to handle that issue?

A: Renton faces urgent affordability, safety, and behavioral health challenges. Safety and crime continue to be at the top of many of our neighbors’ minds. It is the conversation that

I have most frequently with residents, regardless of the neighborhood. I’ve heard stories of mail theft, vandalism, car prowls, and burglaries. It is clear that we must do more to stem this tide of crime in our city and region. First, I believe we must invest in community policing. This gets police officers out of their cars and engaging with our residents, building trust between the police department and our neighbors. A community policing program is part of that ounce of prevention that we need to prevent the pound of cure down the road. Second, we must make sure that our police department has the resources they need to do their jobs. Finally, we must be actively pursuing innovation and creativity in our police department. Whether it’s reducing response time or building out educational and prevention programs, we should be looking for new solutions in our continually growing and changing region. As technology changes, so must our ways of harnessing it to keep our communities safe.

Q: What is one way in which the city council can improve or what has been a shortcoming of the current city council?

A: There is always room for improvement. One of our biggest challenges is to ensure we have the Financial Stability to provide our residents with services they deserve and pay for, while tackling the issues that matter most: crime, housing, mental and behavioral health, and traffic. We have to keep searching for responsible ways to pare the budget and find long term revenue solutions to improve infrastructure, advance the Transportation Improvement Plan, add more parks and trails, as well as programs and services, without burdening residents with more taxes. As a Renton City Councilmember I will continue:

• Supporting our first responders: Police, Fire, EMS, and Mental Health professionals.

• Making sure Sound transit delivers the services Renton residents deserve including light rail expansion.

• Advocating for better transportation options so you can get to work, school, and home to your family

• Bringing solutions and addressing the mental and behavioral health component often overlooked as an obligatory speaking point but failed to be recognized as a central component in many of our social challenges — addiction being one.

• Supporting green clean parks, transitoriented development, and more affordable housing options.

We need to be proactive, creative and aggressive with our approach to solve the current challenges our city has.

Two men arrested after July 11 shooting in Renton

One man was left injured and is in serious condition at the hospital.

By Joshua Solorzano joshua.solorzano @rentonreporter.com

Two men were arrested following a July 11 shooting incident at the Metro Transit Center in Renton, where one man was injured.

Following a shooting that injured a 52-year-old man at about 3:16 p.m. July 11 at the Metro Transit Center in Renton, 219 Burnett Ave. S., officers arrested an 18-yearold Kent man and a 20-yearold Seattle man.

Documents state that, according to video footage

from the area, a woman who waswiththetwosuspectswas hitwithapipebythe52-yearold man. The 20-year-old man then pointed a firearm at the 52-year-old man, who put his hands up and squatted in a cowering position with his head down.

Documents state that it appearedthatthe20-year-old man then shot at the 52-yearold man. According to documents, following the firearm discharge, the 52-year-old man then began to pursue the 20-year-old man with his arms up and head recoiled in a defensive manner.

Documents state that the 20-year-old man and the 52-year-old man then began grappling with one another on the ground. According to documents, the 20-yearold man still had a gun in

his right hand during this exchange.

Documents state that the 18-year-old man then started shooting a gun at the pair who were grappling on the ground. He then got closer and began shooting the 52-year-old man as he attempted to roll away on the ground. Documents state that officers recovered a total of six bullet shell casings at the scene of the incident.

Soon after the incident, police located the girl, the 18-year-old man and the 20-year-old man on a different Metro bus several blocks away. According to documents, police located a total of three guns on the trio.

According to the Renton Police Department, officers originally detained the girl, but she was later released.

The 52-year-old man had gunshot wounds, at minimum, to his chest, both thighs and one knee. Documents state that he was transported to Harborview Medical Center with critical injuries.

Harborview Medical Center spokesperson Susan Gregg said the 52-year-old

remains in the hospital’s intensive care unit in serious condition.

According to the King County Adult and Juvenile Detention Jail lookup portal, the 18-year-old man is currently held at the King County Correctional Facility on a $500,000 bail. Additionally, the 20-year-old man

is currently held at the King County Correctional Facility on a $250,000 bail. According to King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office spokesperson, Casey McNerthney, for the 18-yearold man, the first appearance in court, after hearing from prosecutors and defense, found probable cause for first-degree assault. For the 20-year-old man, according to McNerthney, the first appearance in court, after hearing from prosecutors and defense, found probable cause for second-degree assault.

McNerthney said that the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s office anticipates receivingfelonycasereferrals from police by July 16, and prosecutors will then make a charging decision.

Renton man accused of killing partner with machete

By Joshua Solorzano

joshua.solorzano

Ten months after he was released from prison for an assault charge that landed him about 17 years, a Renton man who allegedly killed his romantic partner in Seattle has been charged with murder.

On July 9, the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged Willie James McCoo Jr., 55, of Renton, with domestic violence firstdegree murder. McCoo’s next hearing is a July 23 arraignment, where an initial plea is entered.

According to charging documents, McCoo was in a romantic relationship with Kiara Sewell, 31, when sometime between June 9 and June 15, he is accused

of killing her. According to documents, June 15, Sewell’s body was found inside an apartment at the Aries at Bitter Lake Apartments, 900 N. 143rd St., Seattle. Documents state that Sewell appeared to have suffered multiple injuries

on her body that were likely caused by a sharp, heavy blade. Additionally, portions of her left arm were amputated, and her left hand was missing and has still not been found.

According to the King County Medical Examiner’s Office, Sewell died on June 10. Additionally, the office reported that her cause of death was multiple sharp force injuries, and her manner of death was homicide.

Documents state that security video from the apartment complex shows the last time Sewell was seen alive was on June 9, when she entered the apartment with McCoo, but she was never seen leaving again. According to documents, McCoo was seen entering and leaving the apartment multiple times holding bags days after Sewell was last seen.

In prosecutor Gretchen

Legal Notices

Holmgren’s request for a $4 million bail, she cited that McCoo’s most recent criminal conviction came in 2008 when he was found guilty at trial of domestic violence first-degree assault. She said that McCoo received a highend sentence of the sentencing range and was released from prison in August 2024.

“The incident took place in 2005, when he attacked a woman he was romantically involved with, stabbing her several times and partially transecting her carotid artery,” Holmgren said. “She was in critical condition when rushed to Harborview Medical Center and suffered permanent injury to her vocal cords.”

According to the King County Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention jail lookup portal, McCoo was arrested on July 7 and booked into the King County Correctional Facility. McCoo remains there

on a $4 million bail.

Details of the case

According to documents, at about 11:43 a.m. June 15, officers responded to the Aries at Bitter Lake Apartments when they received a call that a body was found.

Documents state that officers entered the unit and found Sewell deceased, but no others.

The owner of the unit was arrested in February and is in-custody out of state.

According to documents, Sewell and McCoo were reported to have been squatting at the apartment.

Sewell was found to have been assaulted multiple times, likely by a heavy blade. Documents state that the medical examiner ruled that a machete most likely caused the injuries, and she had died days before she was found.

Based on video

surveillance from the apartment complex, McCoo and Sewell were seen at approximately 2:42 a.m. June 9, and McCoo was not seen leaving again until 1:52 a.m., June 10. According to documents, McCoo was then seen alone, entering and leaving the apartment multiple times betweenJune10andJune12. McCoo was arrested on June 27, pursuant to a search warrant, and his work locker was subsequently searched. Documents state that inside his work locker, a duffle bag was found that he was seen carrying on the video from the apartment complex. Inside the bag were an about 18-inch machete and an about 11-inch huntingstyle knife. Documents also state that the person who conducted Sewell’s autopsy said that the marks on Sewell’s body were consistent with injuries from a machete like the one found in McCoo’s locker.

Legal Notices associated site work. The Maintenance Building will be a pre-engineered metal building with (5) back-in bays, support spaces and crewworkspaces. 4. Overall Substantial Completion shall be achieved within four hundred eighty-three (483) days after the Owner’s Notice to Proceed and Final Completion shall be achieved within forty-five days after Substantial Completion. The Project will haveonephase. ESTIMATE: The A/E’s Estimate for this project is a range from $21,000,000.00 to 21,800,000.00 numbers donotincludeWSST). OBTAINING BID DOCUMENTS: Bidders can obtain access to the Bid Documents as described below. Bid Documents will be available beginning Wednesday, July 16th, 2025 through the process and location as describedbelow: Builders Exchange of Washington: Free-of-charge access to project bid documents (plans, project manual, addenda, and bidders list) is provided to prime bidders, subcontractors, and vendors by going to www.bxwa.com and clicking on “Posted Projects”, “Public Works”, and “Renton Regional Fire Authority”. This online plan room provides Bidders with fully usable online documents with the ability to: download, view, print, order full/partial plan sets from numerous reprographic sources, and a free online digitizer/take-off tool. It is recommended that Bidders “Register” in order to receive automatic e-mail notification of future addenda and to place themselves on the “Self-Registered Bidders List”. Bidders that do not register will not be automatically notified of addenda and will need to periodically check the on-line plan room for addenda issued on this project. Contact Builders Exchange of Washington at (425) 258-1303 should you require assistance with access or registration. BID SECURITY: Bid security, in the amount of 5% of the bid sum shall accompany each bid. Security shall be made payable to Renton Regional Fire Authority either by cashier’s check or bid bond issued by a surety company licensed to conduct business in WashingtonState. MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE:

One pre-bid conference will be held at the Project Location listed above. Attendance of the pre-bid conferences is mandatory on Monday, July 28th, 2025, at 3:00PM PST. Attendees shall sign in. It is the attendee’s responsibility to sign in. The mandatory attendance requirement applies to general contractors who intend to submit a bid for the project. BID PROPOSALS: Proposals are to be submitted only on forms copied from the Project Manual, as indicated in the Instructions to Bidders. Incomplete proposals and proposals received after the time due listed above cannot be considered. Oral, electronic, telephonic, telegraphic, or faxed proposals will not be accepted. The Renton Regional Fire Authority Fire Station 16 and Maintenance Building Project is a public works project and, as such, is subject to prevailingwages. The Owner encourages Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (“MWBE”) outreach in thisproject.

REJECTION OF BIDS:

The Owner expressly reserves the right to reject any or all bids, and the right to waive any informalities or irregularities in any bid or in any bidding and to further award the Project to the lowest, responsive, responsible bidder whose bid complies with all of the prescribed formalities, as it best serves the interest of the Owner. Published: Seattle Times, Daily Journal of Commerce and Renton Reporter First Publication: Wednesday, July 17th, 2025 Final Publication: Wednesday, July 24th, 2025 REN1016508 7/17/25,7/24/25 American Towers LLC is proposing the collocation of one (1) 36-in OMNI Antenna at 120-ft AGL on an existing 148-ft AGL (156-ft AGL overall with appurtenances) monopole communications tower and proposed construction of an associated 270-ft x 4-ft fiber and utility easement at 47°28’17.52” N and 122°04’56.37” W, within the city of Renton, within King County, Washington (Parcel ID: 1923069037). American Towers LLC seeks comments from all interested persons on any potential significant impact the proposed action could have on the quality of the human environment

flea market

pets/animals

PHOTO BY BAILEY JO JOSIE/RENTON REPORTER

First responders at the scene of the shooting.

The suspect has a prior assault charge on his record where he stabbed a woman multiple times.

COURTESY PHOTO Willie James McCoo Jr.’s Washington State Department of Corrections mugshot taken in December 2023.

Rainier Avenue and Grady Way, so we really needed to plan for all that.”

A transportation study conducted by the city in 2005 found the corridor needs seven lines with an outside lane dedicated to transit and better managed access to businesses.

Murder

From Page 1

up, and that Weems was not scared of Offord, but that he killed her because he was angry.

“By the end of this trial, once you’ve heard all the testimony and seen all the evidence, you will know that Mr. Weems was not in any danger from that lipsticksized piece of metal,” Bradley said. “You’ll see that Mr. Weems was not actually in fear of great personal injury or death. He was just angry that this woman wouldn’t shut up. And the state is confident you will find Vaughn Weems guilty of murdering his intimate partner with a firearm.”

Defense statements

Citing as evidence of Weems’ innocence, his attorney Emily Gause said that Offord was angry and aggressive toward Weems before he shot her. Additionally, Gause said that Weems believed the pepper spray Offord had was a gun because she had been known to carry weapons, including guns, and he had to make a split-second decision when he shot her.

Shortly after the study, the city began the multi-phased project.

The current phase, which began construction in March 2023, is focused on the section of Rainier Avenue between South 3rd Street and NW 3rd Place. The phase will include sidewalk widening with streetscaping, pedestrian-scale lighting, extension of the Lake Washington Loop Trail, pedestrian-activated traffic signals, upgrading existing traffic signals, transit improvements, including

an extended business access and transit lane, and planted buffer strips and landscaped medians along the stretch of road.

Seitz said because the corridor is old, there are a lot of “surprises” crews find when they start digging into the ground that provide hurdles for construction. He said one of those surprises was finding old gas tanks, which requires examining the soil for contamination. He said utilities not being able

to keep up with construction have also delayed construction.

“At this point we are just doing surface improvements so it will be moving a lot faster,” Seitz said. “It certainly is impactful still because we’re having to pave lanes and we have to close parts of the street down.”

Seitz said phase 5 of the project will continue the road improvements up to the city limits and mainly will deal with airport frontage instead of businesses.

He said design work for the next phase may take a few years, along with having to buy property, resulting in the construction not beginning for another five years, possibly.

Seitz said a project like Rainier Avenue is not much different from other projects the city does except for the scale of the work. “We don’t do a $50 million dollar project that often. It’s one of the bigger projects we’ve done in the city,” Seitz said.

The day of Offord’s death, she and Weems were having a good time, but as the day went on, she got more and more agitated, Gause said. She said eventually, Weems was driving Offord home, but during the ride, Offord became aggressive, yelled, poked and hit Weems, so he asked her to get out of his car. She said after this, Offord texted Weems angrily.

Gause said that when Weems went to the apartment complex where Offord was, he was with a friend in the car, laughing, and he did not know Offord was going to arrive and be angry. She said that Offord then yelled at Weems, telling her that she had people who would protect her.

“At the end of this trial, we will ask you to return a verdict that reflects that reality that Vaughn acted

Gause told the jury that the prosecution has to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Weems did not act in self-defense. Gause said that Weems did not want to argue with Offord, he just wanted to get away from her, and when he shot her, it was in a moment of fear when words turned to threats and threats felt like life or death.

in self-defense and that he used reasonable force in responsetoanunreasonable and terrifying threat. The evidence will show you that this is not murder,” Gause

Wewillbephasingoutfreedelivery. Oncefreehomedeliveryhasbeen phasedout,youwillbeabletocontinue receivingthepaperatyourhomefor $1.50perweek.Yoursubscriptionwill includehomedeliveryoftheprint edition,aswellasfulldigitalaccess, includingoure-edition.

said. “It was not retaliation, it was survival. Vaughn didn’t want to fight, he just wanted to get away. Vaughn acted in self-defense. Because of that, Vaughn is not guilty.”

Dentist

From Page 1

having a full-time anesthesiologist on staff.

“An absolute selling point for these office is that there’s the anesthesiologist, because when you have a kid that needs extensive dental work and there’s no way to have that dental work done, because other pediatric offices just have a floating anesthesiologist that might come once every

few months,” said The Kids’ Dentist CEO Traci Moran. “They’re able to do everything from start to finish to take care of kids’ oral hygiene.”

Along with the Renton office at 3900 East Valley Road, The Kids’ Dentist has locations in Gig Harbor, Silverdale and a few miles north in the Highlands at 1620 Duvall Avenue Northeast. For more information on the Renton location, call 425-255-5532 or visit the kidsdentistrenton. com