Update: City of Kirkland is now recommending that stores can cautiously reopen.
“We want to thank the business community for closing yesterday and today as a precaution to prevent looting and property damage. We are not aware of any immediate threat of criminal activity in Kirkland and Phase 1 businesses may reopen,” City Manager Kurt Triplett stated in a press release.
However, businesses are being asked to keep a watch out for criminal activity and to continue to monitor the City website and communication channels if the situation changes. Protests are not criminal activity and should not be reported to 911.
Original article below:
Although the rally and march that occurred in downtown Kirkland Monday (June 1) was peaceful, the city of Kirkland is strongly recommending that all brick and mortar Kirkland businesses located downtown and in other commercial areas remain closed through Tuesday, June 2.
On Monday, officials recommended that businesses in these areas close beginning at 1 p.m.
There has been no specific threat to Kirkland identified, but regional law enforcement intelligence indicates there is still potential criminal activity being contemplated throughout King County. Therefore, out of an abundance of caution, the city of Kirkland is requesting that businesses remain closed for one more day.
Community members and visitors are also being asked to avoid downtown and the waterfront parks. The Kirkland Police Department is prepared to respond to any potential incidents.
Kirkland’s city manager proclaimed an emergency Monday afternoon to help prepare the city and community to respond to any incidents that may occur. As of the evening of June 1, the City does not plan on issuing another curfew.
“I want to thank the Kirkland community, and especially the businesses community, for responding to requests to close today,” said Police Chief Cherie Harris. “Our collective preparedness helped to keep our community safe while allowing for protesters to peacefully share their message to end racial inequality and police brutality. The Kirkland Police Department is proud to have been able to support this peaceful march.”
