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December 26, 2024
This week’s podcast unwraps seven seasonal hacks for tackling holiday waste with special guest Gena Jain, sharing practical tips to start your new year sustainably!
The next meeting of the Kirkland City Council is on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. More information about the meeting will be included in an upcoming edition of ‘This Week in Kirkland.’
Puget Sound Energy (PSE) expected possible power outages from the back-to-back weather systems forecasted across its service area this week.
Weather can be unpredictable. Stay prepared.
When there is a significant amount of outages and extensive damage, it can take between 24-48 hours to establish estimated restoration times. Full restoration across our 6,000 square mile service territory and 1.2 million electric customers can take even longer.
PSE knows how frustrating it is to be without power, even more so over the holidays. PSE encourages customers to be prepared now before storms hit.
Tips for Customer Preparation / Response
- Assemble an emergency kit. It should include a flashlight, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, bottled water, nonperishable food, and a battery-powered radio or TV.
- Have an adequate blanket supply on hand for extended outages. If necessary, blankets or cardboard can be hung over windows and doorways to minimize heat loss from a designated “warm” room.
- Avoid opening and closing refrigerators and freezers more often than necessary. Food in a closed refrigerator will stay cold for about 12 hours.
- Turn off lights and unplug all appliances. Leave just one light on to let you know when service returns.
- Do not use charcoal or a gas grill to cook indoors. Do not operate generators indoors or in enclosed spaces to avoid the buildup of carbon monoxide.
- If you encounter a downed power line, stay at least 35 feet away from the line or anything it may be touching. Immediately report the location of fallen wires to Puget Sound Energy or by calling 911.
For more on how to be prepared and stay safe if the power goes out visit pse.com/storm.
As you deck the halls, here are some tips for ways to recycle, donate, or upcycle old, unwanted, or broken decorations:
- Holiday lights – broken lights can be brought to several locations throughout the county for recycling. King County has more info available at Green holidays - King County, Washington. Broken holiday lights can also be put in the regular garbage.
- Plastic yard decorations – plastic yard decorations do not go into your recycling. If they are in good condition consider donating them at a local Goodwill, or post on Facebook Kirkland Buy Nothing Group for reuse.
- Greeting cards, wrapping paper, and gift bags – Save gift bags and other reusable wrappings to use again! Plain paper cards, bags, and wrapping paper (no glitter or foil) can be recycled curbside. Consider upcycling cards into ornaments, wreaths, or more fun ideas can be found at Recycling Christmas Cards: 12 Creative Ways To Upcycle Old Cards.
- Wreaths – Separate out branches and decorations from metal base. Branches can be placed in the gray yard waste cart. Reuse the wreath base and decorations. Fake wreaths can be donated for reuse and are not recyclable.
- Batteries – Bring your household batteries to the Kirkland City Hall or North Kirkland Community Center for recycling. Please empty into recycling containers and do not leave in bags. Accepted batteries can be found at Battery Recycling – City of Kirkland
Recycle Your Used Clothes and Linens
Each year, the average American throws away roughly 80 pounds of textiles – worn out clothes, linens and shoes. The result is 92 million tons of textiles headed to the landfill. You can be part of the solution!
Waste Management’s ReTRN (Recycling Textiles Right Now) program offers a convenient solution for residents at apartment and condominium complexes. WM recycling experts work with property managers and residents to ensure the right materials go into the WM ReTRN carts. The program provides residents a dedicated cart to recycle textiles, just as they would cans and bottles. At four properties in Snohomish County, this program has collected and diverted 15,000 pounds of textiles from the landfill so far this year. Other properties in Kirkland have already collected 200+ pounds of textiles!
For more information or to sign up, email recyclenw@wm.com
You can also recycle clothes by dropping them into the textile collection box at the Houghton Transfer Station. Check out their page for more info Houghton Recycling & Transfer Station - King County, Washington
Christmas Tree Recycling
After your holly jolly holiday, unflocked (without powder or fake snow), undecorated real Christmas trees up to 6 feet tall can be placed beside your cart at no cost during the first two weeks of January to be collected by Waste Management for composting.
Taller trees should be cut down to 4-foot segments. Put out trees next to your cart on your regular service day during the weeks of January 6 or 13, 2025.
Outside of the first two weeks of January, trees should be cut into 3 foot segments and put fully inside your yard waste cart.
Tips for a Waste-Free Holiday Season
Plan Ahead
Know your guest count and plan your menu to avoid excess food.
Bring Your Own Container
Take leftovers home in your own containers to reduce waste.
Proper Storage
Store food correctly to keep it fresh longer and prevent spoilage.
Repurpose Leftovers
Turn extra ingredients into new meals to save time and food.
Small steps can reduce waste, save money, and help the environment. For more tips and details, visit the Washington Department of Ecology.
Image and tips courtesy of King County Solid Waste
Stay Connected
From winter yard care, to holiday sustainability tips, our Kirkland Conserves team makes it easy to do things that help the environment.
Stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, or monthly e-newsletter for easy to follow tips and tricks.
Holiday Schedule Change
WM observes three annual holidays including Christmas Day (Dec. 25), and New Year's Day (Jan. 1). All other holidays will not affect your collection schedule.
Weekday holidays will delay collection by one day for the remainder of the week. For example, if a holiday falls on a Thursday, Thursday customers will be collected on Friday and Friday customers will be collected on Saturday. More info.
Weather Related Service Delays
If weather conditions delay collection, WM will collect up to twice as much garbage, recycling, and yard waste on your next regularly scheduled collection day at no extra charge. No credits will be issued for collection delays due to weather.
Visit WM’s page for up-to-date weather delay information and FAQs. Bookmark this page to check this winter!
Want to get an alert to your mobile phone when your trash or recycle service will be delayed? Set your WM communication preferences to stay in the know!
King County Metro, Sound Transit, and other regional transit partners are teaming up to provide free rides for one of the busiest New Year’s Eves in years. On Dec 31, riders can travel without paying fares on King County Metro, Water Taxi, Metro Flex, Sound Transit Link, Sounder trains, Community Transit, Everett Transit, and the Seattle Streetcar. Whether you’re headed to see the Seattle Seahawks fight for the playoffs at Lumen Field, are a hockey fan making their way to the NHL Winter Classic Fan Village, joining the large crowds for the fireworks at the Space Needle or going out to other events throughout the region, transit has got you covered.
Read more.
Are your pets prepared for winter weather? Keep your furry friends safe by updating their microchip and Kirkland Pet License info. Pack a kit with the essentials: food, water, medications, a favorite toy, and a towel or blanket. If your pet gets nervous around others, consider adding a muzzle too. A little prep now means peace of mind later! Get more tips to build your kit here: ready.gov/pets
Protecting Your Pet from the Cold:
- Paw Care: Ice-melting chemicals can irritate paws. Wipe them clean after walks and check for cracks or redness. You can also apply petroleum jelly for extra protection.
- Dry Skin: Dry indoor air can cause flaky skin. Keep your home humidified and towel-dry your pet after walks to prevent irritation.
- Winter Warmth: Provide extra food for energy, keep fresh water available, and ensure your pet has a warm, draft-free place to sleep.
- Keep Them Inside: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet. Avoid leaving them outdoors or in cars during winter weather, as this can be dangerous.
As the weather gets cold, many people turn to portable space heaters to help warm their homes. If you plan to use one, the Kirkland Fire Department offers these important safety tips:
- Use a heater with a seal from a qualified testing laboratory.
- Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn, including furniture, curtains, people, and pets.
- Choose a heater with a thermostat and overheat protection for added safety.
- Place the heater on a solid, flat surface to ensure stability.
- Make sure your heater has an auto shut-off feature that turns it off if it tips over.
- Keep the heater out of high-traffic areas and never block an exit.
- Keep children and pets away from the heater at all times.
- Plug the heater directly into the wall outlet—never use an extension cord.
- Always turn off and unplug space heaters when you leave the room or go to bed.
If your holiday shopping includes devices like phones, laptops or other gadgets powered by lithium-ion batteries, avoid battery blunders this holiday season with these simple tips from Kirkland Fire Department:
- Buy products using batteries that are listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
- Stop charging a battery once it is full.
- Use only the charging equipment that comes with your device.
- Stop using your device if the battery shows signs of damage, excessive heat, popping sounds, swelling, or a change in color.
- Store batteries away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, exits, and anything flammable.
- When it comes to e-bikes, e-scooters, and electric vehicles, the safest place to charge these devices is outdoors away from your home and not in direct sunlight.
As we ring in the New Year, remember that the personal use of fireworks is illegal in Kirkland. To ensure a safe and happy celebration, please follow these important tips:
Avoid Fireworks
The sale and use of fireworks are prohibited in our city. Violating this law could result in fines and pose a danger to you and your neighbors. Instead, enjoy a professional fireworks display.
Protect Your Pets
Fireworks can cause anxiety and distress for pets. Keep them indoors during celebrations and provide a quiet, secure space where they can feel safe. Close windows and doors to reduce noise, and consider using calming music or a pet anxiety vest to ease their stress.
Have a Plan for Emergencies
In case of an accident, know your emergency contacts and keep a first aid kit nearby. If your pet becomes frightened or injured, contact your vet immediately.
Let’s keep the New Year’s fun fire-free and make sure both humans and pets stay safe. Wishing everyone a joyful and peaceful celebration!
Planning a winter trip? Stay prepared with these helpful resources:
Check the Weather
Before you head out, visit the National Weather Service (NWS) Seattle for up-to-date weather conditions and alerts.
Follow NWS Seattle on social or visit on the web.
Monitor Road Conditions
For real-time road updates, check WSDOT’s travel data to stay informed about closures and delays.
Follow WSDOT on social or visit their Real-Time Travel Data webpage.
Be Prepared
Dress in layers, pack essential gear, and always let someone know your plans when heading outdoors.
Stay safe, stay flexible, and enjoy your winter adventures!
Let’s all do our part to keep the season safe by preventing drunk or high driving.
Washington law enforcement will be out in full force with extra patrols through January 1, and you can help, too. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission offers these tips:
- Be the sober driver or stop someone you care about from getting behind the wheel impaired.
- Arrange a ride — call a cab, rideshare, or designate a driver.
- Offer your couch for the night or help them stay where they are.
- Call for backup — if you’re unsure how to intervene, get others to help or call 911.
If you call 911 to prevent a crash, remember:
- Share the car’s make, model, and license plate.
- Give the route, direction, and a description of the driver.
To stop someone from driving impaired is to help protect them and everyone else on the road. Let’s get everyone home safely this holiday season.
A WSDOT contractor will close all on- and off-ramps of Northeast 85th Street’s interchange with Interstate 405 at 11 p.m., Jan 10 while its crews establish the new bridge’s support structures.
Graham Construction and Engineering will re-open the interchange at 4 a.m., Jan. 13.
The contractor will close all interstate on-ramps and off-ramps in both directions during the closure.
To prepare for the full closure, crews will begin closing lanes as early as 9 p.m. on Friday.
As such, drivers should prepare to use detour routes as early as 9 p.m. on Friday.
Those routes will be posted. For the most up-to-date project information, visit the project webpage. For travel impacts and planning, check out WSDOT’s real-time travel map.
100th Avenue Northeast
Construction will pause on 100th Avenue Northeast Corridor Improvements thru Jan 3. Beginning Monday, Jan. 6, drivers will encounter alternating traffic at various locations between Northeast 137th and 145th streets. The legal speed limit through the construction zone is 25 miles per hour. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/100thavedesign
116th Avenue Northeast
Construction will pause on Kirkland's first Transportation Benefit District funded project thru Jan. 3. Beginning Monday, Jan. 6, drivers near Lake Washington High School will encounter 116th Avenue Northeast reduced to a single lane from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. north of Northeast 70th Street. Kirkland's contractor is building sidewalks and stormwater improvements on this section of street. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/tbd
124th Avenue Northeast
Kirkland’s contractor continues work on the east side of the street, between Northeast 116th Street and Northeast 124th Street. Drivers exiting businesses will encounter “Right Turn Only” access to 124th Avenue Northeast. No construction will occur on Dec. 24, 25, 31 or Jan. 1. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/124thavenue
132nd Avenue Northeast
Drivers traveling on 132nd Avenue Northeast will encounter sidewalk construction from NE 95th Street to Lake Washington Technical Institute. Traffic is reduced to a single lane controlled by flaggers from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kirkland's contractor is building sidewalks and stormwater improvements for the second Transportation Benefit District funded project. No construction will occur on Dec. 24, 25, 31 or Jan. 1. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/tbd
Juanita Drive
Construction will pause on the Juanita Drive Corridor Improvements thru Jan. 3. Beginning Monday, Jan. 6, Juanita Drive will be reduced to one lane periodically between 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Northeast 124th Street to Northeast 128th Street with flaggers controlling the flow of traffic. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/juanitadrivecorridor
Eighth Avenue West and Fifth Street West
Eighth Avenue West remains closed between Market Street and Fifth Street West. This project will repair the sidewalks, curb and gutter, and temporarily patch the roadway to a better condition than currently exists before suspending work for the Winter. No construction will occur on Dec. 24, 25, 31 or Jan. 1. Final paving will occur in 2025. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/eighthavenuewestupgrade
Donate Blood, Save Lives This January
Date: January 15 and 16
Time: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: City Hall, Peter Kirk Community Room, 123 5th Ave
Starting the new year off with a selfless act like blood donation can set a positive tone for the months ahead. Donating blood is a simple yet powerful way to come together for our neighbors in need of transfusions for cancer, surgery, and trauma. January is National Blood Donor Month, and there’s no better time to donate blood and make our community a better and healthier place. Schedule a blood donation appointment at Kirkland City Hall on January 15 or 16.
Kirkland Teen Union Building Open House
Date: Tuesday, January 7
Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Location: Kirkland Teen Union Building, 348 Kirkland Ave
Parents, guardians, and neighbors are invited to visit the Kirkland Teen Union Building during monthly open houses to learn more about KTUB's programs and services.
KTUB empowers teens to live their best life. Located in the middle of Peter Kirk Park in downtown Kirkland, KTUB provides programs and services for youth in middle school through high school (ages 11-19).
More info.
Co-Working and Business Advising Day
Date: Wednesday, January 8
Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: City Hall, Peter Kirk Community Room, 123 5th Ave
Calling all entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners! Join us at Kirkland City Hall for a day of coworking, collaboration, and free business advice. Connect with other business leaders and take advantage of 30-minute sessions with experienced advisors who can help you tackle challenges and grow your business. Drop in anytime or stay for the day—let’s work, connect, and innovate together.
More info.
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In case you missed it --> Presentation and Discussion with Author Anna Zivarts of "When Driving is Not an Option; Steering Away from Car Dependency."