Kids enjoyed their time at Mercer Island PTA’s Special Services and Learning Differences (SSALD) committee’s inaugural SPED Community Day to celebrate belonging and inclusion on May 4 at the Northwood Elementary School lower parking lot. Rotary Club of Mercer Island sponsored the event with support from the Mercer Island School District. The free May the Fourth gathering welcomed all families to meet with city officials (including those from the police and fire departments), touch a truck, visit about 20 resource tables, participate in various activities and workshops and enjoy entertainment. Pictured playing with bubbles are August, left, and Sam Sternberg. Courtesy photos
Wealthy Mercer Island Moves To Ban Homeless Camping Across the City
On 2/17/21 at 4:31 AM EST
A city council in Washington state has near-unanimously voted to expand a ban on homeless camping from parks to all public property.
The Mercer Island City Council members approved the ordinance 6-1 during a vote on Tuesday night, despite a number of objections and calls to at least find another solution.
Councilmember Craig Reynolds was the only one to vote no on the motion.
It is already illegal to camp in parks in Mercer Island a city where the average home costs around $1.7 million but the latest move from the council restricts people living outside or sleeping in their cars overnight.
Mercer Island City Council votes to ban homeless camping within city limits Jonathan Choe, KOMO News
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Mercer Island City Council members voted Tuesday night to adopt an ordinance that expands a ban on homeless camping, extending it from parks to cover all public property in the city.
The council voted to pass the ordinance with a 6-1 vote.
The proposal has raised questions about why the panel is considering such legislation in an area that is home to some of the most expensive homes in Washington state.
“I honestly have not seen any homeless issue ever, said Rachel Morgan, who owns Cascade Frames on the island. It’s kind of pre-emptive in my opinion.