Citing the excellent performance of City Manager Kurt Triplett and the need for stability in a period of growth and economic development, the city council voted to extend Triplett’s employment agreement to 2022 while also raising his salary on Jan. 16.

“With the uncertainty and turbulence at the federal and state levels, steady, thoughtful leadership in local government is more important than ever,” Mayor Amy Walen said in a press release. “Kurt’s sustained outstanding performance has enabled our city to continue on the path toward prosperity. His energy and imagination have resulted in more economic development and better communication with state legislators, all while maintaining our AAA bond rating and promoting a culture of collaboration and customer service.”

The council specifically mentioned Triplett’s leadership supporting the 2017-2018 City Work Plan and praised his efforts in guiding the redevelopment of Totem Lake, the implementation of the Cross Kirkland Corridor Master Plan, his leadership on A Regional Coalition for Housing, and his work with churches and other non-profits to construct a permanent family and women’s shelter in Kirkland.

The council also praised Triplett’s commitment to sound financial management and reserve replenishment. This year the council will develop the 2019-2020 budget, which will be the last budget before the city loses nearly four million dollars per year of state revenue supporting the 2011 annexation of Finn Hill, North Juanita, and Kingsgate.

The redevelopment of Totem Lake and downtown are key city strategies to replace the lost revenue in order to maintain critical services such as police, fire, safe streets and flourishing parks.

“The next several years are critical to the City with the ongoing development of the Village at Totem Lake, Kirkland Urban, and the implementation of the city’s new financial system,” Walen said in a press release. “Kurt’s steady hand will help us chart this course, while also planning for the end of the annexation sales tax credit. The council feels confident our city will continue to thrive under his leadership.”

Triplett will receive a five percent raise, a one-time contribution to his retirement plan and up to three months additional earned severance. The new contract provisions are consistent with the city’s internal market-based comparison of other local governments with similar budgets and staffing levels.

“We are proud of our city manager,” Walen said in a press release. “We want to ensure that Mr. Triplett continues to serve our city for many years to come. With this contract extension, we have achieved that goal.”