Mayor Curtis statement on siting of NERTS in Kirkland

The City of Kirkland has publicly expressed disappointment with King County's recent selection of the Houghton Transfer Station site for the Northeast Recycling and Transfer Station Project, a decision announced prior to the closure of the appeal process for the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Mayor Kelli Curtis emphasized that Kirkland staff are currently reviewing the EIS to ensure all comments are addressed before the appeals deadline. Notably, King County released an addendum to the EIS shortly after, further complicating the review process. Curtis stated the city’s position that the new transfer station must meet modern standards with advanced amenities and comprehensive controls for odor and other environmental concerns. Additionally, the city expects King County to redirect funds for property acquisition towards mitigating negative impacts on the surrounding community.

Kirkland has previously provided specific details regarding mitigation in earlier communications and continues to stress the importance of thorough funding for these measures. The city is actively evaluating its options related to the appeal process given King County's tight timeline. Mayor Curtis looks forward to King County's commitment to building a modern facility that meets the community's needs.