UPDATE: Bellevue City Council has just unveiled the Diversity Advantage Plan 2035, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing equity and inclusion across the city. This comprehensive strategy was revealed during a council meeting held on November 20, 2023, and aims to ensure equitable access to city services for all communities.
The plan sets forth 41 long-term equity objectives developed through extensive community and staff input. These goals align with the council’s strategic vision for a more inclusive Bellevue. “The city identifies a vision for and commitment to a more equitable community,” states the plan. Immediate actions regarding this initiative will be discussed in upcoming council meetings, emphasizing the city’s determination to prioritize inclusiveness.
In addition to the diversity plan, the council addressed amendments to the city’s sign code during the meeting. Following resident feedback, the revised sign code aims to modernize sign design and simplify regulations while adhering to recent court decisions. Discussions highlighted a focus on implementing time-based standards for temporary signs, particularly in residential neighborhoods.
This proactive approach reflects the city’s commitment to enhancing business visibility and economic vitality in Bellevue, where local businesses constitute 97% of the city’s economic landscape. City staff will soon enter a phase of reviewing and drafting the sign code, encouraging broader public outreach and community engagement. The finalized draft is expected to be ready for council consideration by 2026.
As Small Business Saturday approaches on November 29, the council took a moment to honor local enterprises. The date has officially been proclaimed as Small Business Saturday, urging the community to support its vibrant small business sector. The owner of Monserrate Colombian Cuisine accepted the proclamation on behalf of the local business community, underscoring their vital contributions to Bellevue’s economy.
These developments signal a critical shift towards more inclusive practices in Bellevue, as the city moves forward with the Diversity Advantage Plan 2035 and other community-focused initiatives. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged and participate in shaping their city’s future through upcoming council meetings and community forums.
Stay tuned for more updates on these important initiatives as they unfold in Bellevue.
