Kenmore City Council Supports Salmon Recovery Agreement

The Kenmore City Council has taken a significant step towards environmental conservation by unanimously approving an interlocal agreement focused on the recovery of Chinook salmon populations. This agreement, effective from 2026 through 2035, emphasizes Kenmore’s commitment to regional collaboration with 29 other local governments within the Water Resource Inventory Area 8 Salmon Recovery Council. The initiative is estimated to cost the city approximately $10,000 annually and aims to protect crucial salmon habitats in the Lake Washington, Sammamish, and Cedar watersheds. Councilmember Nathan Loutsis voiced strong enthusiasm for the effort, recognizing the council's vital role in salmon habitat recovery. The new agreement will replace the current one set to expire at the end of this year.

The interim city manager is tasked with executing the agreement, which will maintain Kenmore's active participation in RIA-8's efforts. This ongoing collaboration is expected to bring ecological benefits, including improved water quality and support for sustainable ecosystems. The council's decision reflects a growing commitment to environmental stewardship in the region.