At its June 4 meeting, the Mercer Island City Council approved a pair of proclamations to establish June as Pride Month on the Island and June 19 as Juneteenth on the Island.
The Pride proclamation reads, in part: “Mercer Island is a welcoming community and an exceptional place to live, learn, work, play, and raise a family; and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people (LGBTQ+ people) are our family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers who contribute meaningfully to our community.”
The Juneteenth proclamation reads, in part: “Juneteenth is a day to recognize the contributions that African Americans have made to our state, country, and community, a chance to reflect on the complex and painful history of our nation, and an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the work of creating a more equitable and just society.”
SPORTS COURTS RENOVATION
The Luther Burbank Park sports courts will remain closed until August during a resurfacing and reconfiguration project that will transform the existing area into eight pickleball courts. Until that time, temporary pickleball courts are available at Island Crest Park.
BOOK SALE
From now until June 10, Friends of the Mercer Island Library is hosting a mini-sale of gently used books and media at the library (4400 88th Ave. SE) during open hours. Proceeds from the no-cashier sale will support library programs and community events.
Hours are noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday. No sale on Sunday as the library is closed.
TIP FEDERAL FUNDING
Mercer Island was selected to receive $320,000 in federal grant funding to support the planned Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities Plan update. The award covers 80% of the $400,000 cost and is programmed in the Transporation Improvement Program (TIP) for 2026-27.
THRIFT SHOP SUCCESS
The Mercer Island Thrift Shop drew more than 500 customers and amassed more than $17,500 in total sales during its Memorial Day sale.