A special message from Mayor Neil Johnson
|
Like so many people in the United States, we are shocked and dismayed by what happened to George Floyd in Minneapolis. This in no way represents the vast majority of police officers who are committed to protecting and serving all members of the public with integrity and professionalism. It is absolutely sickening to see such a senseless act of violence that violates the public trust, perpetuates racism, and ultimately undermines the safety of all of us. It needs to stop.
Here in Bonney Lake, I want to assure you that the actions and inaction taken by the Minneapolis police officers does not align with the values of our City or the policies and practices of the Bonney Lake Police Department, which are based on nationally accepted standards. Police officer candidates receive an extensive background investigation to ensure they are a good fit for policing our community. Officers receive ongoing crisis intervention, de-escalation and anti-bias training. Department members respect the sanctity of human life and dignity, without prejudice to anyone on account of race, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. We carefully monitor officers’ use of force to ensure force is only used when necessary to protect public welfare. Every use of force (anything above compliant handcuffing) is carefully reviewed by multiple supervisors for compliance with policy as well as any potential bias.
At this time of crisis, we ask for the public’s cooperation in keeping Bonney Lake a safe place to live and work. While we support peaceful protests, we condemn the property damage and looting that is taking place in other cities. Such acts just compound the pain the community is already experiencing from the pandemic as well as the mourning of George Floyd.
xt Link
|
|
Let the countdown to graduation begin! The community is invited to join in watching the Bonney Lake High School virtual graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 10 at 6 p.m. This will be a live viewing, meaning the ceremonies begin exactly at the time noted. This is intended for everyone to gather at the same time – safely at home – to enjoy the event together.
The graduation ceremony features staff and student speakers, musical performances, and the announcement of diplomas. A couple weeks ago, BLHS seniors experienced the graduation ceremony (using social distancing) as they were filmed walking across the stage to accept their diploma.
A link to the live viewing will be posted two days prior to the event at
www.sumnersd.org/seniors
.
To honor the BLHS graduates, the city has put up banners (photo above) at the east and west city limits along SR 410, and added teal lights to the city's gateway sign at Ascent Park.
Congratulations to the Bonney Lake High School Class of 2020!
|
|
Pierce County approved to enter Phase 2
of Safe Start Recovery Plan
|
Pierce County learned today the county’s application to move to Phase 2 was approved by the state Department of Health. The move to the second phase is effective immediately.
I am thrilled to see so many Bonney Lake businesses prepared for Phase 2 and already opening its doors to customers. When considering where to dine, shop, or play, please think Bonney Lake first and support our local businesses.
Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier shares the following message:
“I’m pleased that our residents’ hard work to social distance and abide by best practices has been recognized. While we are eager to see some of the restrictions lifted, I urge our community to continue with the practices that protect themselves, their families and our community.”
Activities allowed under Phase 2, with certain restrictions, include restaurants at 50% capacity, in-store retail at 30% capacity and the re-opening of salons, barbers and other personal grooming services.
The County is expected to remain in Phase 2 for at least three weeks and can apply to move to the next phase when prescribed COVID-19 targets have been achieved.
|
|
City evaluates use of roundabouts in Eastown Subarea
|
|
The City of Bonney Lake annexed the Eastown Subarea in 2002 to accommodate growth and a need for undeveloped commercial land. A plan was developed to guide future development, addressing land use compatibility, access, circulation, and infrastructure improvements.
In preparation for future activity and growth within this area, Bonney Lake evaluated the future capacity of the 214th Avenue and SR 410 intersection. The possibility of a future intersection at 225th Avenue was also evaluated as part of this effort. Consistent with the State Department of Transportation's
SR 410 Study
, it was concluded that a roundabout at each of these intersections would be the safest option while able to accommodate a greater number of vehicles at a lower cost than a lower cost than a signalized alternatives.
|
|
Bonney Lake businesses gather supplies for reopening
|
|
More than 200 Bonney Lake area businesses received free disposable, non-surgical masks and no-touch infrared forehead thermometers at the free Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) distribution event on June 1.
Pierce County is offering FREE PPE to businesses located in Pierce County to help them comply with COVID-19 worksite-specific safety practices in order to protect employees and customers.
|
|
For city news and information, visit
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
