Lake Forest Park city hall with a rainbow overhead; US flag flying, several cars parked in the parking lot

Photo credit: K Zech

City of Lake Forest Park
17425 Ballinger Way NE
Lake Forest Park, WA 98155
www.cityoflfp.gov
206-368-5440

May 2025

DEPARTMENT UPDATES

  • City of Lake Forest Park Orders Flags Lowered to Half-Staff in Memory of Deputy Mayor Lorri Bodi
  • City of Lake Forest Park Reaffirms Support for LGBT+ Community with New Resolution
  • Municipal Court Update


Picture of Deputy Mayor Lorri Bodi

Lorri Bodi

City of Lake Forest Park Orders Flags Lowered to Half-Staff in Memory of Deputy Mayor Lorri Bodi


Mayor Tom French has issued an Executive Order directing all flags at City facilities to be lowered to half-staff in honor and remembrance of Deputy Mayor Lorri Bodi, who passed away on April 17, 2025.

Deputy Mayor Bodi was a respected and deeply admired public servant, environmental advocate, and community leader. She served on the City Council for more than five years and played a critical role in shaping legislation and policy for the benefit of Lake Forest Park residents.

“She was a dear, dear friend, and I had the honor and privilege of working with her for more than five years here at the City,” said Mayor Tom French. “As Deputy Mayor, Lorri applied her professional expertise to great effect, guiding the Council, Planning Commission, and Parks Board through many important pieces of legislation and policy creation.”

Beyond her public service, Lorri Bodi was a committed volunteer, environmental activist, and attorney. She was known for her remarkable ability to unite people, seek consensus, and focus on the common good.

“Lorri was a consummate community leader and volunteer,” Mayor French continued. “She steadfastly championed the environmental ethic of Lake Forest Park and continuously advocated for gentle growth in our community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. I will miss her greatly.”



City of Lake Forest Park Reaffirms Support for LGBT+ Community with New Resolution

The Lake Forest Park City Council has unanimously passed Resolution No. 25-2009, affirming the City’s commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and safe community for all individuals, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or gender expression. The resolution, approved on March 27, 2025, underscores Lake Forest Park’s ongoing dedication to the principles outlined in the “Charter for Compassion” and builds upon prior resolutions that declared the City a compassionate, welcoming, and safe place for everyone.

Key Highlights of Resolution No. 25-2009

  • Reaffirms Lake Forest Park as a community where all people—regardless of immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, faith, race, national origin, age, ability, ethnicity, housing status, economic status, or other social status—are treated with dignity and respect.
  • Condemns harassment, bullying, and hate crimes, and pledges that City services and facilities will remain accessible to every individual.
  • Emphasizes the City’s commitment to gender-affirming care, access to facilities corresponding with one’s gender identity, and freedom for speech and expression supporting LGBT+ people.
  • Directs the Lake Forest Park Police Department to continue strengthening trust with the LGBT+ community and to actively investigate hate crimes based on actual or perceived gender, sexual orientation, or expression.


Lake forest park municipal court logo

Municipal Court Update


The Court has seen a significant increase in filings since the installation of a 24/7 traffic safety photo enforcement camera at the 3300 block of 178th Street in the fall of 2024.  Filings rose by approximately 39% in 2024 (apx. 34,300 filings) and are on track to increase another 54% by year end 2025.  Although this increase in workload has put the Court’s lean staff to the test, staff have responded in stride (in spite of a two-week statewide judicial system outage as well as closures due to inclement weather and power outages). The Court continues to work diligently to process these additional filings as well as process and hear all other misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor crimes and civil infractions committed within Lake Forest Park. 

Parties that have submitted electronic and written requests to either contest or mitigate citation(s) have also felt the impact of the additional filings, as these requests have more than doubled, resulting in longer processing times while the Court works through each submission. The Court appreciates everyone’s patience while staff process backlogged requests and aim to return to its usual speedy response rate. As noted on the Court’s website and voicemail, any payment deadlines are suspended while a case is under judicial review.   

While filings may be leveling out, the Court’s workload has permanently increased, and the City Council approved the Court’s request to increase staffing from 2.5 court clerks to 4.5 court clerks for the 2025-2026 biennial budget. The Court is thankful for the increased budget to add staff. Even with that growth, the Court will strive to function with fewer staff than other similarly situated, high volume courts. In comparison, neighboring cities Lynnwood (apx. 66,900 filings – 10 clerks) and Everett (apx. 32,800 filings – 11.5 clerks) have also seen an influx in filings and were recently approved for additional staffing as well. Lake Forest Park Municipal Court is currently reviewing applications for an additional court clerk. 



EVENTS 

  • Demystifying Herbs and Dietary Supplements – Friday, May 9
  • Pack the Park 5K Fun Run – Saturday, May 10
  • Lake Forest Park Farmers Market Opens Mother’s Day – Sunday, May 11
  • Understanding Today’s Youth Addiction Crisis – Tuesday, May 27
  • Miyawaki Urban Forest Project Pollinator Party – Saturday, May 31
  • Recycling Collection Event with the City of Kenmore – Saturday, May 31
  • Open House Pancake Breakfast & Safety Fair – Saturday, June 7
  • Lakefront Property Community Workshop #4 – Wednesday, June 11
  • The Secret Gardens of Lake Forest Park Tour and Market – Saturday, June 14


herb and dietary supplements on a table

Demystifying Herbs and Dietary Supplements 

Thursday, May 1


Friday, May 9 | 10:00–11:30 AM
Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center
18560 1st Ave NE, Building G, Shoreline, WA 
Cost: Free
Register by phone at (206) 365-1536 or in-person at the Senior Activity Center

Learn how dietary supplements are regulated, how to find reliable research, and how to evaluate product quality. This one-hour session includes an optional 30-minute Q&A and hands-on resource exploration. Bring a phone, tablet, or laptop to practice your own research with guidance.



Pack the Park 5K Fun Run 

Saturday, May 10


Pack the Park is back! Grab your capes and your friends to join in for a 5K around Lake Forest Park. This year the funds collected will benefit the Third Place Commons Farmer's Market Bucks program and the Shoreline School District Angel Fund which pays off negative school lunch balances. 

After our 5K Fun Run/Walk, join us in the park for food, games and the rocking sounds of Lago Vista Social Club. It's fun for all! 

Check out the Pack the Park Facebook event page. 

How to Get Involved

  • Register for the run and bring your family and friends! 
  • Sign-up to volunteer to help at the event. 
  • Become a sponsor to help make the event even more impactful. 

For more details, registration, and ways to contribute, visit the website. Let’s Pack the Park and make a difference together!

Pack the Park Flyer


Lake Forest Park Farmer's Market Logo

Lake Forest Park Farmers Market Opens Mother’s Day 

Sunday, May 11


Mark your calendars! The Lake Forest Park Farmers Market kicks off the season on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11 from 10 AM to 2 PM in front of City Hall.

Come early to stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables, and local goods, and say hello to your favorite vendors - including some exciting new ones! And of course, don’t forget a beautiful bouquet for Mom, Grandma, or any special mother in your life - it’s the perfect way to celebrate the day.

The market runs every Sunday through October 19, 10 AM to 2 PM. We can’t wait to see you there! 🛍️💐



Understanding Today’s Youth Addiction Crisis 

Tuesday, May 27


Did you know? The Lake Forest Park Police Department partners with Hopestream Community - a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting parents of teens and young adults facing challenges with substance use and mental health.

Hopestream offers around-the-clock support, a free podcast, retreats, and a private online community specifically for moms. Parents also get live and on-demand access to expert-led content and conversations focused on mental health, substance use, and overall wellness. To ensure accessibility, sliding-scale membership options are available.

Join us for a special workshop!

  • Date: May 24, 2025
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Location: Lake Forest Park City Hall

To register and for more details, visit: hopestreamcommunity.org

understanding today's youth addiction crisis - Hopestream workshop


Miyawaki Urban Forest Project Pollinator Party 

Saturday, May 31


Come celebrate the beauty of spring in Shoreline! Buzz on over to the forest Saturday, May 31, from 3 PM to 5 PM to play, learn, sing, dance and create with us.

The Miyawaki Forest Project welcomes you to a FREE kid and family-friendly party where you can learn about the pollinators behind all the spring color around us.  You’ll enjoy live music and refreshments, watch your kids entertained by beloved children’s performer Eric Ode, and participate in fun, hands-on games and crafts.  

Shoreline Historical Musuem Pollinator Party


Person recycling water bottle

Recycling Collection Event with the City of Kenmore 

Saturday, May 31


The Cities of Lake Forest Park and Kenmore are partnering for a combined Recycling Collection Event! 

Take a look at the Event Flyer to view the full list of what you can and cannot bring. Please be aware fees do apply for certain items. The collection event will take place Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Northlake Lutheran Church. 

Items you can bring (please view the event flyer for full details and information): 

Tires*, Propane Tanks*, Appliances and Scrap Metal*, Porcelain Toilets & Sinks*, Lead Acid & Household Batteries, Mattresses*, Paper Shredding (4 box limit), Clean Bulky Wood, and Refrigerators & Freezers*
      *Fees apply 
 
Please note: No flat beds or dump trucks allowed. We reserve the right to refuse over-sized, commercial, contaminated, excessive, or unacceptable loads.



Open House Pancake Breakfast & Safety Fair 

Saturday, June 7

Shoreline Fire Department Open House Flyer


Lakefront Park Community Workship #4

Wednesday, June 11


Join us for the fourth Community Workshop on Wednesday, June 11, in the Council Chambers at LFP City Hall between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM. This open house event will feature activities for all ages! The design team will share the latest updates on the park design, and community members will be invited to share their priorities for the space.

Your input is essential to shaping Lake Forest Park’s future public Lakefront Park! Be sure to visit the project website for more information on the project, sign up to receive email updates, and go on a virtual tour of the park!

LFP Lakefront Park Workshop #4


The Secret Gardens of Lake Forest Park Garden Tour and Market 

Saturday, June 14


Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Fun for all ages!

Location:
Town Center at Lake Forest Park (Lower Level)
17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155
www.secretgardensoflakeforestpark.com

Tickets:
Available now!
Save with Early Bird pricing: $20 in advance, $25 at the door
Purchase tickets on the Secret Gardens of LFP page

This year, garden scouts have found six exquisite gardens to enthrall visitors. You will see how different gardeners manage slopes, explore the use of hardscape, integrate artwork, or practice climate resilience in thoughtful ways. Each garden is enhanced by live music and plein air painters.

In addition to the tours, enjoy the Secret Garden Market at Lake Forest Park Town Center where the center is filled with music, garden-related booths, prize raffles, and many eateries.

Questions?
Email info@lfpgardentour.com or visit the website for full event details.

secret garden tour and market of lake forest park badge


COMMUNITY INFORMATION

  • LFP Early Registration for Summer Recreation Programs with the City of Shoreline Begins May 22
  • REAL ID Deadline Approaching: Get Your Passport Ready
  • Spring Cleaning Sustainability Tips
  • Shoreline Fire Department Now Recruiting Entry-Level Firefighters
  • Practice Natural Weed Control by Hand-Pulling Weeds
  • Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Community Van


Summer 2025 shoreline recreation guide

LFP Early Registration for Summer Recreation Programs with the City of Shoreline Begins May 22


Live in Lake Forest Park? Interested in recreation? Take advantage of exclusive benefits through the City of Shoreline’s recreation programs! As a Lake Forest Park resident, you’re eligible for a 24-hour early registration period before each season’s programs begin, plus an 8% discount on all program fees (excluding rentals) year-round!

The City of Shoreline is separating the Summer Camp registration from the overall Spring/Summer Class registration. Lake Forest Park Residents early registration for Summer Recreation Programs opens May 22, 2025, at 8:00 AM. Early registration for Summer Camp Programs took place on March 13, 2025. To receive notices of the early registration dates, sign up for reminders through the City’s website, Facebook and Twitter.

For more details, visit www.shorelinewa.gov/recreation or call 206-801-2600.

Lake Forest Park also offers scholarship reimbursements for eligible youth and specialized recreation participants who reside in the city and are enrolled in cultural, recreational, or aquatic programs and camps. For more information on scholarships, visit HERE or contact City Hall at 206-368-5440.



passport and camera on world map

REAL ID Deadline Approaching: 
Get Your Passport Ready


Starting May 7, 2025, anyone flying domestically within the United States must have a REAL ID, such as a Washington Enhanced Driver’s License, U.S. passport, or another accepted form of ID.

If you need to apply for a U.S. passport, Lake Forest Park Passport Services is here to help! You can learn more about how to apply or renew your passport by visiting our website or travel.state.gov.

You’ll need to apply in person if you are:

  • A first-time applicant
  • A minor (under age 16)
  • Someone whose last passport was issued before age 16
  • Someone whose last passport expired more than 5 years ago
  • Someone whose passport is lost, stolen, or damaged 

👉 Book an appointment here

We also offer walk-in passport photos for adult renewals during regular business hours (Monday - Friday, 9 AM–5 PM) for $20.



Spring Cleaning Sustainability Tips

Republic Services spring sustainability tips


Shoreline Fire Department Now Recruiting Entry-Level Firefighters


The Shoreline Fire Department is seeking highly motivated individuals with a passion for public service, integrity, and a commitment to protecting others. We invite qualified candidates to apply for the position of Entry-Level Firefighter/EMT and become part of one of the most highly rated fire departments in Washington State.

Application Period: April 1, 2025 - May 23, 2025
 
For minimum qualifications, application instructions, and full position details visit www.ShorelineFire.com. 

Entry-Level Firefighter Job Announcement

Shoreline Fire Department recruitment flyer for entry level firefighters


natural garden care pulling weeds

Practice Natural Weed Control by Hand-Pulling Weeds


Practice natural lawn care to protect your family, community, and Puget Sound. Natural lawn care can save you time and money by reducing the need for fertilizer, weed control, reseeding, and replacement. Try these actions: “Grasscycle” by leaving the clippings on the lawn (mulch mow). Mow high. Water deeply. Hand-pull weeds (and eat them!), and avoid using Weed-and-Feed and harmful chemicals. If you must fertilize, use organic, slow-release fertilizer. Consider shrinking your lawn and adding native habitat or a rain garden for a beautiful, functional yard.

 Learn more best practices and smart tips for healthy lawns:

  • NaturalYardCare.org – Natural Lawn Care
  • King County DNRP – Natural Lawn Care
  • WATCH: Natural lawn care tips for moss and weeds


Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Community Van


HopeLink Mobility Management provides trip coordination for the Redmond, Sammamish, Shoreline-Lake Forest Park, and Snoqualmie Valley Community Vans in partnership with King County Metro and participating cities. This service is designed to provide residents with customized options for getting around when bus service can’t meet their needs. All trips are driven by Metro approved Volunteer Drivers and are dependent on volunteer availability.

Community Vans are driven by the community, for the community! Become a volunteer driver, and you can ride for free while enjoying the flexibility to choose the trips you want to drive. Metro provides the vans, gas, insurance, and maintenance—you provide the driving skills! For more details, visit the HopeLink website.

Check out the April Community Van Newsletter with updates about the program, regional news, transportation resources, and much more!

picture of a king county community van


MEETING INFORMATION

Empty chairs in meeting room

May Meeting Schedule


All meetings are held in the hybrid format at City Hall and via Zoom.


Climate Action Committee

  • May 6, 7:00 p.m.

Tree Board

  • May 7, 7:00 p.m.

Council

  • May 8, Joint Meeting with Shoreline School District Board, 6:00 p.m.
  • May 8, Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
  • May 19, Committee of the Whole Meeting, 6:00 p.m.
  • May 22, Regular Meeting, 7:00 p.m.
  • May 29, Budget & Finance Committee Meeting, 6:00 p.m.

Planning Commission

  • May 13, 7:00 p.m.

Climate Policy Advisory Team

  • May 14, 7:00 p.m.

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

  • May 28, 7:00 p.m.

Information may be subject to change. For the most current meeting information, please check the City’s meetings calendar and the Agendas & Minutes webpage.



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17425 Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

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