The Houghton Community Council held their final meeting on June 27, before being dissolved on July 9. The council was originally formed in 1968, when Houghton merged with Kirkland.

Houghton Community Council consisted of seven members who were elected every four years. The council exercised advisory and approval authority over most matters pertaining to zoning regulations and land use within the Houghton area.

On March 11, Gov. Inslee signed House Bill 1769 into law, which sunsets community municipal corporations across the state, effective July 9.

At the final meeting, several community members provided public comment where they thanked the council for their efforts and hard work over the years.

Karen Leverson, who is a Houghton resident since 2004, stated how they have been ‘rockstars’ for the community, and their legacy will carry on forever.

“Thank you so very much for everything you’ve done,” said Leverson. “I have watched numerous meetings where each of you has listened to each other with patience, with praise, considering and opposing point of view, and while your political beliefs might be different, you’ve always honored each other.”

Once the Houghton Community Council’s service ends, their email accounts will be monitored for some period of time to answer any questions. A message has also been placed on the Houghton Community Council website to notify individuals of the sunset; further information about how residents can reach out to neighborhood associations will also be added to the website.