Individual neighborhoods are invited to join us in our efforts to give crime and drugs a going away party by hosting a special event such as a barbeque, neighborhood block party, ice cream social or youth activity. On Tuesday, August 5, residents in neighborhoods throughout Newcastle and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outdoors with neighbors. For more information and to register your event, contact Newcastle Police Officer Kathy Decker by sending an email to kathleen.decker@kingcounty.gov. Newcastle Police will make every effort to attend each neighborhood event. Newcastle City Councilmembers and other city officials also will participate. 

Renton School District will soon proceed with a project to construct a new middle school in Newcastle by demolishing the existing Renton Academy buildings. As early as August 4, the school constructed in 1963 will be removed to make way for one 119,000 square foot, two-story building. Construction is scheduled to begin late this year and continue through July 2016. The building as proposed will include 27 general classrooms, special needs classrooms, four computer labs, six science labs, a gymnasium, fitness center, library, band, orchestra, choir/drama and art studio facilities and other labs and learning areas. The school district has worked extensively with the city to determine the type of street improvements and student drop-off/pick-up areas required. 

City Hall's development permit counter will be temporarily closed from August 18 through August 20 to allow staff to implement new development permitting software. The city's new software, along with the use of www.mybuildingpermit.com, will increase efficiency and provide contractors working in Newcastle and city residents with faster permitting and increased access to information. While the permit service counter will be temporarily closed, permits may still be obtained through the online permitting portal.

The number of cats and dogs licensed in Newcastle continues to grow! That's great news for pets throughout King County. License fees support the return of hundreds of lost pets to their homes and help give thousands of homeless pets new families every year. Pet license fees also fund investigation of animal neglect or cruelty, spay/neuter programs to reduce pet overpopulation, and community education services. If you license your pet, you can also expect that your pet will be reunited with you should the pet wander. Purchase or renew a pet license online at the Regional Animal Services of King County website.

Planning Commissioners are in the process of setting the course for the next 20 years, but need to hear your thoughts on the city's future. Provide input now by taking this open ended survey or this multiple choice survey. Commissioners are updating the current Comprehensive Plan, which guides management of growth, development and land use. Meetings are held the third Wednesday of every month starting at 7 p.m. at City Hall.