Kirkland is asking businesses in the city to close at 1 p.m. today, Monday June 1, after receiving reports, according to a City of Kirkland press release, that the city may be a target for property destruction and stealing.

“The city council appreciates all of the individuals that are exercising their free speech rights to peacefully speak out against the murder of George Floyd and the ongoing racial inequities that exist in our society,” Mayor Penny Sweet stated in the release. “It is unfortunate that a criminal element is seizing on this opportunity to engage in looting and other destructive activities. We hope that community members and business owners will join us in implementing precautionary measures to protect our community.”

The city strongly recommends stores shut down and secure their buildings as well as any items of value within their stores, and visitors are asked to avoid downtown Kirkland and commercial shopping areas after 1 p.m.

The release also states that the Kirkland Police Department are not planning to impose a curfew, but are preparing to respond to any incidents. The release states that this is a fluid situation and businesses may be asked to take defensive actions like this any time throughout the next week.

“We are receiving reports that Kirkland is a possible target for looting and destruction,” City Manager Kurt Triplett states in the release. “Out of an abundance of caution we’re encouraging these precautionary measures to help prevent any criminal activity that could cause further damage to our local businesses and community.”

The release also reminds folks that King County is still in Phase 1 of the Governor’s reopening plan amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The city will continue updating the community at kirklandwa.gov.