BREAKING: The Bellevue City Council has just unveiled the groundbreaking Diversity Advantage Plan 2035, a strategic initiative aimed at significantly enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion across the city. This urgent announcement came during a council meeting on November 20, 2023, and outlines a comprehensive approach to ensure equitable access to city services for all communities.
The plan sets forth 41 long-term equity objectives designed to align with the council’s strategic target areas. Developed with extensive input from the community and city staff, this initiative reflects Bellevue’s commitment to fostering a more equitable community. “The city identifies a vision for and commitment to a more equitable community,” the plan emphasizes. Further actions regarding this ambitious plan will be deliberated in upcoming council meetings.
In addition to the Diversity Advantage Plan, the council addressed amendments to the city’s sign code. Following valuable community feedback, these amendments aim to modernize sign design, simplify regulations, and adhere to recent court rulings. Discussions during the council meeting highlighted the need for time-based standards for temporary signs, particularly in residential neighborhoods.
Local businesses have voiced their concerns regarding visibility and economic stability, underscoring the necessity of effective signage. The City of Bellevue staff will enter a phase focused on reviewing and drafting these changes, which will include extensive public outreach and community engagement. A finalized draft of the updated sign code is anticipated to be presented to the council by 2026, demonstrating the city’s dedication to addressing community needs.
With Small Business Saturday approaching on November 29, the council took a moment to honor local enterprises, proclaiming the date as a special day to support small businesses that constitute 97% of Bellevue’s economic landscape. The owner of Monserrate Colombian Cuisine accepted the proclamation on behalf of the small business community, emphasizing their crucial role in the local economy.
As the city takes significant steps toward greater equity and inclusion, residents are encouraged to participate in these initiatives and support local businesses during this vital shopping season. Stay tuned for more updates as Bellevue works towards a more inclusive future.
