As part of the Washington State Growth Management Act, cities are required to periodically review and update their Comprehensive Plans - these plans guide growth and development over a 20-year timespan. The City of Mercer Island is currently reviewing its Comprehensive Plan for the 2024-2044 period.

Islanders are encouraged to attend a Community Open House on May 1 from 6:00 - 8:00pm at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center to preview the draft amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and provide feedback to the City. Members of the Planning Commission as well as City staff and consultants will be in attendance to provide information on the work done to date, the draft plan elements, and proposed substantial changes to the plan. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss topics of interest, and provide feedback for the Planning Commission to consider as it prepares its recommendation to the City Council.

More information, including the public review drafts of amendments to the Comprehensive Plan, is available on the project's Let's Talk page.

By properly disposing of unused and expired medications, we protect our kids, our neighbors, and the environment. Mercer Island Police and the City's Youth and Family Services Department are offering a free, anonymous, medication disposal event for National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 27 from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center parking lot. Simply walk or drive up to the event location and staff will properly dispose of the medications you drop off.

The following medications can be accepted:

• Any unused or expired prescription medication (including Schedule II through V controlled substances)
• Any used or expired over-the-counter medication
• Any pet medication 

For more information on creating a safe disposal and storage plan, or how to talk with a loved one about prescription misuse, visit Washington State's online resource page. You can also call or text the Washington Recovery Line at 1-866-789-1511 or call the MIYFS Confidential Voicemail at 206-275-7657, and the YFS Clinical Team will return your call within one business day.

Stop by the Community Center this Saturday, April 20, between 10:00am to 2:00pm for our annual Leap for Green Earth Day Fair. This free event promotes environmental practices and activities for kids and adults while raising general awareness of local sustainability resources. Islanders can enjoy entertainment, food vendors, sign-up for summer camp, and more. Visit the event page for more information. Thank you to our event sponsors: Cedar Grove and The Mercer Island Community Fund.

PS: the City Council proclaimed April 22, 2024 as Earth Day on Mercer Island at yesterday's regular meeting, encouraging all residents and businesses to be 

responsible stewards of our Island, the climate, and our planet. You can read the full proclamation online.