HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/10/2024 - Agenda Packet
AGENDA
EQUITY COMMISSION
5:30 PM - Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Council Chambers, 7th Floor, City Hall – 1055 S. Grady Way
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
3. STAFF COMMENTS
4. AUDIENCE COMMENT
Those wishing to address the Equity Commission will be called upon. Each speaker is allowed
three (3) minutes.
5. CONSENT AGENDA
a) Approval of July 9, 2024, meeting minutes
Hannah Miller, ESD Administrative Assistant
6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
7. NEW BUSINESS
a) Communications Strategy Plan
Laura Pettitt, Communications & Engagement Director
8. COMMITTEE MEMBER COMMENTS
9. COMMITTEE CHAIR COMMENTS
10. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing assistance devices for use in the Council Chambers are available upon request.
For more information please email: hlmiller@rentonwa.gov
Page 1 of 63
MEMBERS
Nicole Hill, Chair Manami Imaoka Cassandra Baddeley
Lisa Davis, Vice Chair Celina Kershner
Sarah Ballard Youth Member -
Gabriel Jones Hemant Tanwar
Page 2 of 63
July 9, 2024 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
MINUTES
EQUITY COMMISSION
5:30 PM - Tuesday, July 9, 2024
Council Chambers, 7th Floor, City Hall – 1055 S. Grady Way
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
Commissioners present:
Nicole Hill
Manami Imaoka
Gabriel Jones
Celina Kershner
Hemant Tanwar
Commissioners attending virtually:
Lisa Davis
Commissioners absent:
Sarah Ballard
Cassandra Baddeley
Staff attending:
Kristi Rowland, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer
Patrice Kent, Senior Assistant City Attorney
Hannah Miller, ESD Administrative Assistant
Kim Gilman, Interim HRRM Administrator
MOVED BY JONES, SECONDED BY KERSHNER TO EXCUSE THE ABSENCES OF
COMMISSIONERS BALLARD AND BADDELEY. CARRIED.
STAFF COMMENTS
DCAO Rowland will be on a work trip during the August meeting and will be absent from the
meeting.
Page 1 of 3
AGENDA ITEM #5. a)
Page 3 of 63
July 9, 2024 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
Commissioner Padhi has resigned from the commission. We will send thanks from the
commission and mayor for serving.
Staff is seeking approval for signature on a letter of support for a Youth Athletic Facilities
grant being applied for by the Parks and Recreation Department.
DCAO Rowland thanked Commissioner Imaoka for helping with the visit from the Nishiwaki
Sister City delegation.
AUDIENCE COMMENT
Those wishing to address the Equity Commission will be called upon. Each speaker is
allowed three (3) minutes.
CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of June 11, 2024, meeting minutes
Hannah Miller, ESD Administrative Assistant
MOVED BY JONES, SECONDED BY IMAOKA TO APPROVE THE JUNE MEETING MINUTES.
CARRIED.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
City Hiring Practices
Kim Gilman, Interim Human Resources & Risk Management Administrator
After discussing planned absences in August, the Commission decided to cancel the August 13
meeting.
MOVED BY KERSHNER, SECONDED BY JONES TO CANCEL THE AUGUST 13 EQUITY
COMMISSION MEETING. CARRIED.
COMMITTEE MEMBER COMMENTS
Commissioner Jones spoke about attending a Council meeting where raising of the
Juneteenth flag was discussed, and would like to see that happen next year. Commissioner
Jones also attended the Juneteenth celebration and thought it was a great event that was
done well.
A flag policy has been presented to the Council for review.
Commissioner Davis asked about initiatives to reach out and work with private industry, for
example a "hackathon" to involve tech industry to help develop technology for city use.
Page 2 of 3
AGENDA ITEM #5. a)
Page 4 of 63
July 9, 2024 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
COMMITTEE CHAIR COMMENTS
Chair Hill reminded everyone that Renton River Days is coming and encouraged everyone to
attend.
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 6:51 p.m.
Hearing assistance devices for use in the Council Chambers are available upon request.
For more information please email: HLMiller@rentonwa.gov
MEMBERS
Nicole Hill, Chair Manami Imaoka Cassandra Baddeley
Lisa Davis, Vice Chair Celina Kershner
Sarah Ballard Youth Member
Gabriel Jones Hemant Tanwar
Page 3 of 3
AGENDA ITEM #5. a)
Page 5 of 63
Page 6 of 63
2025-26COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY PLAN
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
7
o
f
6
3
NEW STRATEGIC APPROACHES
•Our approach to communications is
changing.
•Our audience has adjusted to new
ways of interacting faster than ever
before.
•In the past two years we have
accomplished foundation-building
goals to actualize the Mayor’s vision
for enhanced and improved
communications.
Communications
Feedback and
Improvement
Engagement
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
8
o
f
6
3
PRIOR GOALS
2023-24 Communications Division goals
•Finalize a five‐year strategic plan
•Develop standard policies and
procedures
•Train city staff
•Launch a new city website
•Show business plan goals through data
•Expand engagement platform
•Use data to show new audiences
•Enhance media relations on key issues
•Enhance Channel 21 productions
•Prepare for large‐scale emergencies
•Support staff development
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
9
o
f
6
3
v
SUCCESS
Based on the goals, the Communications &
Engagement Division has made the
following strides forward
•Launched Communications Strategy
Plan + Engagement Strategy Plan
•Created Crisis Communication
•New website launches Q1 2025
•Digital engagement pilot program
•Enhanced media relations program
•Built reports to show progress
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
0
o
f
6
3
BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE!
How can Communications best support our business plan
•Integrate Communications and
Engagement
•Use plain language Federal
Guidelines
•Fully staff our division
•Launch of recording studio
•Launch of communication consults
•Centralized publication calendar
for everyone to see
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
1
o
f
6
3
PURPOSE
•Clearly define messages, priorities,
strategies, and tools
•Ensure Renton’s story is told effectively
•Implement engagement in a timely and
effective way
•Support priorities of Mayor and Council
•Furthering the city’s mission
•Enhance customer service
•Increase resident trust in local
government
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
2
o
f
6
3
GOALS
•Increase resident engagement
•Identify and remove barriers
•Increase community
understanding of city services,
initiatives, and resources
•Measure outcomes to plan
future communication
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
3
o
f
6
3
LISTENING & RESPONDING
LISTENING
Communications
is not just an
information
microphone
Build ways to
encourage
dialogue
FOUNDATIONAL
MESSAGING
Our message needs
to be consistent and
strong across all
platforms
STORYTELLING
We need to
“humanize” what
the City of Renton is
doing to fully
connect with our
audience
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
4
o
f
6
3
FUNCTIONS
Content Production
Press releases, newsletters, magazines,
broadcast video, podcasts, website
content, social content and short films,
photography, videography, production
studio, Channel 21
Communications Consulting
All departments and divisions can bring a
project to the team for a 360-degree
consult
Engagement
Engage the public through participation at
events, through digital platforms, and with
city services.
Brand Management
Ensures the City of Renton brand is
being used – font size, language used,
ease of vision, ease of translation, ease
of parsing for AI voice for those with
disabilities.
Crisis Communication
Communications, Emergency
Management Division and Renton
Police Department develop
emergency messaging, and prepares
leadership in 15 potential crisis areas.
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
5
o
f
6
3
PRIORITIES
LEAD STRATEGIC AND EFFECTIVE
COMMUNICATION EFFORTS (THIS
INCLUDES CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS
ADVANCE PLANNING)
PRIORITY 1
Two-way communication from our
residents: well-informed on topics of
importance to the city and how government
works. We gather feedback and correct
misinformation.
Proactive
planning, reaching
the greatest
number of
residents, and
ensure content
ties back to
business plan.
CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR EDUCATION
AND ENGAGEMENT
PRIORITY 2
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
6
o
f
6
3
MODERNIZE OUR COMMUNICATIONS
OUTLETS
PRIORITY 3
In everything we do, we relate back to
who we are as a city. Our residents
experience the same high level of
service at the front desk that they do
on the web, at our events and in our
parks, while our content is consistent
and recognizable.
Ensure we are using efficient and
modern solutions in order to best
reach our residents.
REINFORCE BRAND IDENTITY
PRIORITIES
PRIORITY 4
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
7
o
f
6
3
BUILD INTERNAL INFORMATION FLOW
Using a variety of metrics including key
performance indicators, data and results-
based accountability measures, regularly
create internal reports on the progress of our
outreach, and use results to continuously
refine and grow our communications and
engagement efforts.
Create regular contact with all departments,
along with interdepartmental opportunities for
social interaction. This increases our ability to
find synergies, reduce overlap, and call in all
departments on creative problem-solving. This
ensures the Communications & Engagement
Division can actively forecast the materials,
time and energy to expend telling city stories in
a proactive way.
PROVIDE MEASUREMENTS OF PROGRESS
AND SUCCESS
PRIORITIES
PRIORITY 5 PRIORITY 6
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
8
o
f
6
3
2022-25 ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY
In partnership with consultants KAYA Strategic, a framework for the
city’s engagement goals was set for a three-year period.
1)Internal Community Engagement
Infrastructure and Coordination
2)Community Partnerships and Customer
Service
3)Accessible and Inclusive Participation
4)Data, Research, and Information Hub
5)Digital Engagement Capacity
KAYA STRATEGIC PLAN
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
1
9
o
f
6
3
•What engagement is
•How we incorporate engagement
•Addressing an equitable audience,
Title VI
•Connect with existing programs
•Event forum for members
to post
1) Internal Community Engagement
Infrastructure and Coordination
2022-25 ENGAGEMENT PLAN
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
2
0
o
f
6
3
•Engagement training for line staff
•Coffee meetings with MITF and
Equity Commission
•Community Forum and Outreach
for Administrators
•Community-Based Organizations
•Launching a Youth Council
2) Community Partnerships and Customer Service
2022-25 ENGAGEMENT PLAN
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
2
1
o
f
6
3
3) Accessible and Inclusive Participation
•Utilizing the perspectives of many to inform an
inclusive engagement practice
•Increasing representative populations on boards
and commissions
•Language Access & why brand standards matter
•Diverse, creative and alternative ways of
presenting accurate information to the public
•Balancing virtual and in-person offerings
2022-25 ENGAGEMENT PLAN
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
2
2
o
f
6
3
•Informed outreach
•Taking the pulse of changing
demographics and identities
•GIS mapping tools
•Gathering opinions and lived
experiences
•Training and best practices
•Quantitative and Qualitative
Measurement
4) Data and Information Hub
2022-25 ENGAGEMENT PLAN
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
2
3
o
f
6
3
OUR COMMUNITY
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
2
4
o
f
6
3
5) Digital Engagement Capacity
•Invest in capacity for staffing and
technology software for online
engagement
•Policies and procedures for
technology and social media use
•Increase accessibility through
virtual options
•Social media, city website
2022-25 ENGAGEMENT PLAN
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
2
5
o
f
6
3
YOUR VOICE RENTON
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
2
6
o
f
6
3
CURRENT MEDIA
PLATFORM ANALYSIS
GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES
•Podcast Studio productions
•Content Series: “Branch Out” Urban Forestry
video; “Humans of Renton” ; Tales from the Trails
– bike, running, outdoor activities; the “Ren-
Tonys” – a fictional award series featuring the
unique, interesting and surprising pieces from
Renton
•Council Meeting Recaps – a highlight reel cut
from existing footage
•TWIRL – “This Week in Renton Live” – giving a
face and voice to newsletter content, inviting a
number of city personnel to record the story
highlights for a social media and Channel 21
feature weekly.
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
2
7
o
f
6
3
CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS
1.Natural disasters
2.Acts of terrorism
3.Cyberattacks on critical infrastructure
4.Public health emergencies
5.Civil unrest, riots, and protests
6.Industrial accidents
7.Transportation accidents
8.Public safety emergencies
9.Environmental disasters
10.Financial crises
11.Officer-involved shooting
12.Personnel issues
13.Equipment failures or injuries
caused by city-owned equipment
14.Large-scale fires
15.Officer killed in the line of duty
•Creation of Public Statement Policy
•Creation of strategic direction for crisis situations:
AG
E
N
D
A
I
T
E
M
#
7
.
a
)
Pa
g
e
2
8
o
f
6
3
2024 CITY OF RENTON
Communications
Strategy Plan
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 29 of 63
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 30 of 63
Executive Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Our Audience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Role of Communications & Engagement Division . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Priorities for Communications and Engagement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Priority 1 – Lead Strategic Communication Efforts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Priority 2 – Create Opportunities for Education and Engagement . . . .7
Priority 3 – Modernize our Communications Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Priority 4 – Reinforce Brand Identity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Priority 5 – Build Internal Information Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Priority 6 – Provide Measurements of Progress and Success . . . . . . . . .9
Communication Channels/ Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Crisis Communication Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Implementation and Timeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 31 of 63
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 32 of 63
1 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
PLAN PURPOSE
The purpose of this Communications Plan is to
clearly define the messages, priorities, strategies,
and tools the City of Renton will use when
communicating both externally and internally .
The Plan ensures Renton’s story is told effectively
despite interference, and engagement between the
city and the community is implemented in a timely
and effective manner .
This Plan aligns with the strategic priorities of Mayor
Armondo Pavone and the Renton City Council,
furthering the city’s mission, enhancing customer
service and increasing resident trust in local
government through transparency and access .
PLAN GOAL
The goal of the Communications Plan is to
increase resident engagement and community
understanding of city services, initiatives, and
resources, and to record measurable outcomes that
inform future communication . This plan will outline
the priorities that drive the content production of
the city’s Communications & Engagement Division
each year .
VISION
Renton: The center of opportunity in the Puget
Sound Region where families and businesses thrive
MISSION
The City of Renton, in partnership and
communication with residents, businesses, and
schools, is dedicated to: 1) Providing a safe, healthy,
vibrant community; 2) Promoting economic vitality
and strategically positioning Renton for the future;
3) Supporting planned growth and influencing
decisions to foster environmental sustainability; 4)
Building an inclusive informed city with equitable
outcomes for all in support of social, economical,
and racial justice; 5) Meeting service demands
and providing high-quality customer service with
measurable outcomes .
FOUNDATIONAL MESSAGING
Communication efforts should consistently support
the city’s vision, mission, and goals, as well as align
with city council priorities . The following are taken
from the City of Renton’s Business Plan (2024-
2029) .
STORYTELLING
The services delivered by every city department
play a critical role in the lives of those in our
community . We have a unique story to tell within
each project and program the city oversees . The
Communications & Engagement Division helps to
both create and sustain productive connections
between city services and Renton community
members, businesses, and visitors to tell the city’s
story, and listen to and share our community’s
stories .
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 33 of 63
2 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
BRAND PILLARS
To guide our efforts, the Communications &
Engagement Division focuses on telling the
stories that support seven brand pillars . These
are based on feedback received through the
city’s extensive community survey . Brand pillars
represent the values of our residents and the
goals we collaboratively set for our future . These
should be considered at the baseline of all content
development on behalf of the City of Renton .
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY: Renton is the most
advantageous place in the Puget Sound region to
locate a business . In addition to a central location
with ease of access to Seattle and the Eastside,
businesses have access to a highly educated
workforce and competitive pricing for real estate
and office space . Leading aerospace businesses
such as Boeing have a long history in Renton,
while the city is also home to well-known tech and
gaming companies such as Wizards of the Coast .
Renton is home to the practice facility for the
Seattle Seahawks and serves as the Seattle
Sounders headquarters . Leading healthcare
providers Valley Medical Center, UW Medicine,
and Seattle Children’s Hospital all have a presence
within Renton as well . Incubators and services
for entrepreneurs and start-ups are also regularly
available .
CULTURE & DIVERSITY: Renton is #17 on the
list of the most diverse cities in the nation . Our
community is welcoming and inclusive of all . We
celebrate the strength and informed perspective
that our diversity inspires . We seek out feedback
from all genders, ages, races, ethnicities, national
origins, range of abilities, sexual orientations, gender
identities, financial means, education levels, and
political perspectives . We celebrate our
LIVABILITY: Renton offers a mix of housing
at all levels, including long-term density and
transportation planning, to reflect the needs of
those who live and work in Renton . Home to the
Cedar River running through downtown, and
situated at the south end of Lake Washington,
Renton offers a robust number of parks, trails, and
year-round recreational opportunities .
From Renton’s central location, one can be in
Seattle or Bellevue in less than 20 minutes, fly
out of the Renton airport, be on the water via
Lake Washington, or skiing at Snoqualmie Pass
in less than an hour . We are also good stewards
of our environment, focusing on the long-term
sustainability of our natural resources and pristine
setting .
CUSTOMER SERVICE: Renton provides exceptional
customer service to our residents, and retains
best in class staff . We focus on innovation and
continuous improvement to serve Rentonites
and inform them of the services offered . We
find collaborative partnerships and investment
strategies to extend the offerings we provide our
residents .
INTERNAL CULTURE: The City of Renton is
a municipal employer of choice, investing in
continuing education and professional development
in order to provide the highest level of service
to our residents . We have respect for the varied
talents of our staff, and the demanding work they
do, providing the equipment and training necessary
to retain long-term staff and offer stability and
reliability to our residents .
PUBLIC SAFETY: Renton is a leader in safety,
health, and security, focusing on effective
communication and high-level service delivery to
our residents . We work to address the challenges
of housing and mental health needs, and we
ensure our city is pedestrian and bicycle-friendly,
with connections between neighborhoods
and community gathering places . We ensure
communication is open and our community is
prepared in the case of emergencies .
GOOD GOVERNANCE: The City of Renton applies
the highest ethical standards to our work . We are
transparent and an excellent steward of public
funds .
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (continued)
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 34 of 63
3 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
OUR AUDIENCE
rentonwa.gov/demographics
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 35 of 63
4 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
Strategic Communication
Planning Process
We work to implement the city’s business plan,
mission, and vision through content delivered on
efficient, accessible, and effective platforms . We
are focused on connecting with our residents –
we serve others with a sense of dignity, care, and
respect .
We not only focus on the services the city provides,
but we tell those stories through the eyes of the
impacted residents . This brings our high-level and
long-range priorities a sense of humanity, personal
investment, and an understanding of how abstract
issues translate to action for our residents .
Production
The Communications & Engagement Division is
responsible for all content production, including
written press releases, newsletters, magazines,
broadcast video, podcasts, website content, social
content and short film edits . The division manages
all photography and videography, and runs the
internal video production studio, along with all
content on public access Channel 21 .
Communications Consulting
The Communications & Engagement Division consults
with all departments and divisions on the appropriate
platforms and messaging to ensure that projects and
initiatives are part of the city story in total, and refer
back to the city’s brand pillars and business plan goals .
Engagement
Communications staff works to develop and carry
out successful strategies to engage the public in their
local government through participation at events,
through digital platforms, and with city services .
Brand Management
The Communications & Engagement Division ensures
the City of Renton brand is being used across all
departments and communications efforts .
Crisis Communication
In partnership with the Emergency Management
Division and Renton Police Department, the
Communications & Engagement Division develops
emergency messaging, and prepares elected
leaders and subject matter experts in 15 potential
crisis areas . In the event of an emergency, staff will
manage media relations and effectively disseminate
information across the appropriate and available
platforms . (See Crisis Communications Plan)
ROLE OF COMMUNICATIONS
& ENGAGEMENT
The role of the Communications & Engagement Division is to establish, nurture, and sustain a high level of
trust in Renton’s government among residents, businesses, visitors, and other key stakeholders .
Strategic communications form the foundation of public trust – we reinforce our integrity as a transparent
and open organization through the access we provide to information . We encourage input from our residents .
We secure a continued positive reputation through consistency and response to queries, concerns and
bringing to light the long-range planning that benefits our community today and 20 years down the road .
The Communications & Engagement Division serves the function of gathering the stories that impact our
community, and putting them forward on a number of platforms to best reach our audience .
We share news and relevant information that is accurate, impactful, and relevant to our widely varied
audience .
Below is an overview of the functions and processes within the Communications & Engagement Division .
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 36 of 63
5 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
PRIORITY 1
Lead Strategic and Effective Communication
Efforts (this includes crisis communications
advance planning)
Create a year-long proactive plan, informed
by work across all departments to ensure our
communications work reaches the greatest number
of residents, and ensure our content ties back to our
city business plan goals .
PRIORITY 2
Create Opportunities for Education and
Engagement
Ensure two-way communication from our
residents, giving opportunities to become well-
informed on topics of importance to the city and
how government works . We gather feedback and
correct misinformation through regular question-
and-answer opportunities .
PRIORITY 3
Modernize our Communications Outlets
Ensure we are using efficient and modern solutions
in order to best reach our residents .
PRIORITY 4
Reinforce Brand Identity
In everything we do, we relate back to who we are
as a city . Our residents experience the same high
level of service at the front desk that they do on
the web, at our events and in our parks, while our
content is consistent and recognizable .
PRIORITY 5
Build Internal Information Flow
Create regular contact with all departments,
along with interdepartmental opportunities for
social interaction . This increases our ability to
find synergies, reduce overlap, and call in all
departments on creative problem-solving . This
ensures the Communications & Engagement
Division can actively forecast the materials, time
and energy to expend telling city stories in a
proactive way .
PRIORITY 6
Provide Measurements of Progress and
Success
Using a variety of metrics including key
performance indicators, data and results-based
accountability measures, regularly create internal
reports on the progress of our outreach, and
use results to continuously refine and grow our
communications and engagement efforts .
PRIORITIES FOR COMMUNICATIONS
& ENGAGEMENT
The Communications & Engagement Division is responsible for defining new audiences, managing
outreach, researching, and planning the city’s annual communications output, along with building the
platforms and content we use to effectively reach our audience . We measure the rate of delivery and
engagement within our messages through data, and are committed to continuous refinement . We also
provide tangential support to the Renton Police Department, Renton Downtown Partnership and the Renton
Community Marketing Committee .
This Communications Plan is based on the priorities below . Practical strategies and tactics to achieve these
goals follow each item . Our overall goal is to increase resident confidence in local government, strengthen
community ties and include all voices in effective and forward-thinking city policies .
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 37 of 63
6 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
STRATEGIES
1 . By forming a large-scale and accessible editorial
production calendar, we create a centralized
understanding of news topics across the city,
bringing a proactive focus to our content
creation efforts . This forms a clear plan
2 . Create a comprehensive crisis communications
plan, with planned statements, identify subject
matter experts on each, and provide media
training to those that can and should speak
directly with media .
3 . Utilize technology to organize content, follow
deadlines and meet expectations from our
internal and external audiences .
TACTICS
1 . Retire the old C&E liaison system in favor
of monthly meetings with department
administrators to ensure our content production
is on time and on message, and arising topics or
issues are clearly communicated and planned
for .
2 . Update leadership and elected officials on
hot-button issues, crafting short soundbites to
ensure all points of contact are informed of the
city’s position and action .
3 . Fully staff the Communications & Engagement
Division to ensure bandwidth to cover all topics
4 . Re-engergize the programming of Channel 21 to
accurately reflect all city initiatives and services
available to residents . Take an editorial and
personal approach to content .
5 . Each initiative or project ties back to a specific
bullet point within our business plan, and we
ensure an equal representation for these goals
throughout the year .
6 . Create standardization for communications
processes and procedures, including social
media, proclamations and public recognition,
press releases and events .
7 . Utilize refined work order system to better
create holistic and proactive communications
plans and limit reactive one-off last minute
requests .
PRIORITY 1
Lead Strategic and Effective Communication Efforts
(this includes crisis communications advance planning)
Create a year-long proactive plan, informed by work across all departments to ensure our communications
work reaches the greatest number of residents, and ensure our content ties back to our city business plan
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 38 of 63
7 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
PRIORITY 2
Create Opportunities for
Education and Engagement
Ensure two-way communication from our
residents, giving opportunities to become well-
informed on topics of importance to the city and
how government works . We gather feedback and
correct misinformation through regular question-
and-answer opportunities .
STRATEGIES
1 . Increase interactive opportunities for
communication with key constituent groups
and representative community leaders, using
new platforms, regular outreach and real-time
feedback methods
2 . Create programming to educate our residents
on what the role of the city is, the services we
offer, what we can and cannot do, and how
policies and procedure are followed within
municipal government, in order to have a better-
informed populace, and, in turn, more refined
and actionable feedback .
TACTICS
1 . With the addition of an engagement coordinator
to the Communications & Engagement Division,
identify key audiences and create regular
opportunities
2 . Working with all departments, create a short
briefing on complex projects and long-term
initiatives using engagement software to inform
quickly, provide city contacts, and create the
opportunity for open feedback through a public
comments section and one-on-one opportunity
to make a direct staff contact .
3 . Open social media comments for real-time
feedback and measurable engagement
numbers per post, and answer questions in real-
time to prevent the flow of misinformation .
4 . Launch the “Civic Academy” program, recurring
throughout the year, in order to provide
in-person and virtual learning opportunities on
what the city does and how we operate .
PRIORITY 3
Modernize Our
Communications Outlets
Ensure we are using efficient and modern solutions
in order to best reach our residents .
STRATEGIES
1 . In partnership with IT, research and launch
several solutions to streamline digital
communications on all fronts – including media
monitoring software and a media database,
organization software, a branded graphic design
hub, and a new city website
2 . Utilize our data to measure where our messages
are being delivered, and where they are not –
expand outreach to targeted neighborhoods
and cultural groups to ensure our messaging is
received by our diverse population . Recognizing
the limitations of in-person engagement during
business hours, seek out ways to digitize our
information to expand our reach .
TACTICS
1 . Using data-informed design, re-imagine the
city website to best serve our audience through
understanding blockades and paths to the
information most requested by residents . Utilize
modern storytelling tools like PowerBI to increase
data visualization, and embedded video to tell
short, compelling stories .
2 . Find our key audiences and perform regular
internal audits to ensure we are accurately
reaching them on the platforms that best suit
their needs . We serve a wide variety of ages,
languages, cultural backgrounds and will utilize
translation services and accessible content in
order to reach our audience .
3 . Shift print communications into a quarterly
mailed Renton magazine, utilizing the production
schedule we carry for Recreation Guides,
but increasing the audience and mailing to
residences and businesses .
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 39 of 63
8 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
PRIORITY 4
Reinforce Brand Identity
In everything we do, we relate back to who we are
as a city . Our residents experience the same high
level of service at the front desk that they do on
the web, at our events and in our parks, while our
content is consistent and recognizable .
STRATEGIES
1 . Give internal employees the right toolbox to
easily and efficiently represent the city’s brand
with consistency and clearly communicated
expectations . We empower subject matter
experts to interact and engage with media
via the city’s Communications & Engagement
Division . Every interaction a staff member has
with the public is an opportunity to build our
detract from our brand .
2 . Tell our brand story internally and externally,
creating a clear vision and buy-in from our front-
line staff . Reinforce that the city brand is not
the logo or pictures, instead, it’s the way we tell
our story again and again .
TACTICS
1 . Host regular “Renton 101” Sessions and training
on using new tools including a Digital Asset
Management Platform and Adobe Express for
signage and content creation
2 . Organize Photo and Video Content in a Digital
Asset Management Platform in order to make
items readily available to the correct audiences .
3 . Launch self-service graphic design platform
with pre-loaded branded content, and links to
most recent and accurate photography and
videography .
4 . Launch Annual Branding Guidelines, replete
with new fonts, color options – and pre-load the
Graphic Design Hub to readily reflect those .
5 . Host media trainings for identified subject
matter experts, with a minimum of two per
department certified as Public Information
Officers .
PRIORITY 5
Build Internal Information Flow
Create regular contact with all departments, along
with interdepartmental opportunities for social
interaction . This increases our ability to find synergies,
reduce overlap, and call in all departments on creative
problem-solving . This ensures the Communications
& Engagement Division can actively forecast the
materials, time and energy to expend telling city
stories in a proactive way .
STRATEGIES
1 . Utilize a two-way communication process
within the Communications work order system
to increase “Communications Consults” to get
ideas flowing and to identify upcoming projects,
initiatives and long-term stories to tell . Include
representatives from all departments within
brainstorms for new content, and identify creative
“storyseeker” delegates in each department .
2 . Manage up – hold monthly check-in meetings
with appropriate department administrators and
division directors to actively showcase work in
the pipeline and encourage brainstorming on
big ticket items . This includes contact with ELT,
Council and the Mayor .
TACTICS
1 . Continue the Social Media group, meeting
monthly to ensure regular education and
conversation about how to tell stories in a
compelling, brand-focused way .
2 . Utilize focus groups with representatives from
every department, including the Website Focus
Group, the Branding Focus Group, and an
Engagement Focus Group to help identify blind
spots, forecast potential issues and ensure city-
wide buy-in .
3 . Continue to publish the internal monthly
newsletter, the CORE Connection . Include “guest
columnists” from a variety of city departments
to highlight their day to day, and suggestions on
improvements the city can make in total .
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 40 of 63
9 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
PRIORITY 6
Provide Measurements of
Progress and Success
Using a variety of metrics including key
performance indicators, data and results-based
accountability measures, regularly create internal
reports on the progress of our outreach, and
use results to continuously refine and grow our
communications and engagement efforts .
STRATEGIES
1 . Build out a stable of performance indicators and
utilize reporting software to readily measure and
analyze the reach of our messaging .
2 . Refine our approach based on results and
feedback, understanding communication
goals include qualitative measures as well as
qualitative ones .
TACTICS
1 . Invest in reliable data-based measurement tools
– Cision for media reach, GovDelivery for open
and click-through rates, social media audience
growth and engagement numbers .
2 . Seek feedback from media, external audience
representatives and internal audiences .
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 41 of 63
10 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
Communication Channels / Tools
(Assessment)
Evaluation of the existing communication channels used by the city (Tripepi Smith report/review); list of
communications channels that exist
Identification of additional channels that could be employed to reach a wider audience (recording studio)
Communications Channels:
Newsletters
& Brochures
Our Renton Newsletter
Monthly, Print & Email
This Week in Renton
Weekly, Email
Mayor’s Update
Ad Hoc, Email
CORE Connection
(internal use only)
Monthly, Email &
SharePoint
Let’s Go Renton!
Recreation Guide
3x year, Print & Online
Community
Engagement
Bang the Table
“In the Loop” changing
to “Your Voice”
Ad Hoc, Online
Renton Responds
Online and App
Email
GovDelivery
Ad Hoc
Digital Screens
Readerboard
Daily
Raydiant
Daily, Digital Screens
(City Hall Lobby, Renton
Community Center,
Senior Activity Center,
and Golf Course)
Digital Broadcast
Channel 21
CISION
Mayor in a Minute
Weekly (Not started)
City of Renton Podcast
Monthly (Not started)
Council Meetings: Filler
Segments + Packet
Weekly (Not started)
Sprout Social
Daily, Digital
SOCIAL DIGITAL/PRINT
City of Renton
»Facebook
»Instagram
»X / Twitter
»Nextdoor
»YouTube
»Flickr
»LinkedIn
Mayor Armondo
Pavone
»Facebook
Emergency
Management
»Facebook
»Instagram
»X / Twitter
»YouTube
Airport
»Facebook
»Instagram
»X / Twitter
Arts Commission
»Facebook
»Instagram
Visit Renton
»Instagram
»Facebook
Parks & Recreation
»Facebook
»Instagram
Neighborhoods
»Instagram
Henry Moses Aquatic
Center
»Facebook
Renton Farmers
Market
»Facebook
»Instagram
»Twitter
Renton History
Museum
»Facebook
»Instagram
»Twitter
Police Department
»YouTube
»Facebook
»Instagram
»X / Twitter
»Nextdoor
Renton Animal
Control
»Facebook
RPD School Resource
Officer -
»Instagram
Renton Police
Business Watch
»Facebook
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 42 of 63
2024 CITY OF RENTON
Crisis Communications
Plan & Responses
11 // City of Renton Communications Strategy Plan
Crisis Communication
Plan
Creation of a plan to effectively communicate
during emergencies or crisis situations
Establishing protocols and procedures for rapid
response and dissemination of information (partially
by EM)
Refer to Appendix A
Implementation and
Timeline
Outlining the implementation plan
Establishing a timeline for the execution of different
tasks and initiatives
2024 – Launch of New Communications Work
Order System
Late 2024 – Launch of Digital Asset Manager
(Canto)
Late 2024 – Update of Communications Guideline
Early 2025 – Launch of New Website
Early 2025 – Launch of Recording Studio
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 43 of 63
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 44 of 63
APPENDIX A
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 45 of 63
2024 CITY OF RENTON
Crisis Communications
Plan & Responses
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 46 of 63
1. NATURAL DISASTERS
Such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and floods ........................1
2. ACTS OF TERRORISM
Including bombings and mass shootings .....................................2
3. CYBERATTACKS ON CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Such as power grids, water supply, and transportation systems ................3
4. PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCIES
Such as pandemics or disease outbreaks .....................................4
5. CIVIL UNREST, RIOTS, AND PROTESTS .....................................5
6. INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS
Such as chemical spills or explosions .........................................6
7. TRANSPORTATION ACCIDENTS
Including plane crashes, train derailments, and bus accidents..................7
8. PUBLIC SAFETY EMERGENCIES
Such as active shooter situations or hostage situations ........................8
9. ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTERS
Such as oil spills or toxic waste leaks..........................................9
10. FINANCIAL CRISES
Such as recessions or stock market crashes that impact the city’s budget
and ability to provide services to its residents ................................10
11. OFFICER-INVOLVED SHOOTING ...........................................11
12. PERSONNEL ISSUES .......................................................12
13. EQUIPMENT FAILURES
and injuries caused by city-owned equipment ...............................13
14. LARGE-SCALE FIRE
Naturally occurring, and non-natural .........................................14
15. OFFICER KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY ...................................15
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 47 of 63
1 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
1 NATURAL DISASTERS
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Flooding: Ron Straka, Public Works &
Maintenance on Sandbagging, Vactor
Trucks, Emptying Storm Drains
»TBD
OUTREACH PLAN: Follow the EOC Duty
Officer Manual. When an anticipated natural
disaster strikes, preparation time is possible
to loop in all parties. When an unanticipated
natural disaster occurs, the following protocol
will be observed.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “An incident involving (INSERT
DISASTER AT LOCATION) has occurred.
The City will be updating information as it
becomes available at (WEB LINK HERE).”
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP TO DATE
CONTENT.
RPD /
Meeghan Black
Provide Internal
Update on public
safety status
Post on social
with link back
to web, post as
updates available
Emergency Operations Center
Draft Internal/
External
Statement
Approve
Internal/External
Statement Post to Web, Send
web link to all
internal parties
Send out media
alert with duty
phone, continue
updates as
received
CAO / DCAO Mayor / Council
LEAD DIVISION: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Communications
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 48 of 63
2 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
2 ACTS OF TERRORISM
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Incident Command
»Chief Jon Schuldt
»External Federal Agencies as involved
OUTREACH PLAN: During our upcoming
Council retreat, offer media training for
electeds to ensure understanding of the chain
of command when speaking publicly about
city crisis issues (G402). Ensure all protocol are
followed as directed from incident command.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “An incident involving (INSERT
DISASTER AT LOCATION) has occurred.
The City will be updating information as it
becomes available at (WEB LINK HERE).”
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE
CONTENT. CONTENT OWNERS ARE RPD IN
THIS CASE.
CAO/ DCAO
Approve internal
statement for
Comms to send
Post on social
with link back
to web, post as
updates available
Renton Police Incident Command
Draft Internal/
External
Statement
Prompt ESK6 for
evacuations
Post to web,
Send web link to
all internal parties
Activate other
King County EOC
jurisdictions
Post to social,
follow Incident
Command
directive
EOC Duty Officer
Mayor / Council
Chief
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Communications
(Renton Police Dept
and City Comms
collaborate
LEAD DIVISION: RENTON POLICE
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 49 of 63
3 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
CAO/ DCAO
Approve internal
statement for
Comms to send
If nefarious action is detected, federal
action including FBI, CIA, State-level
contacts are introduced.
EOC Duty Officer
If WEBSITE is
affected, contact
Granicus for temp
landing page
Water
Quality:
George
Stahl
Water
Distribu-
tion:
Ron
Straka,
Abdul
Gafour Post to Web,
Send web link to
all internal parties
IT
#1 Young Yoon,
#2 Brett Tjeten
If UTILITIES involved:
Seattle City Light &
Puget Sound Power Post to social, post
updates on web or
alternate channels
as available; bring
any channels back
online ASAP
Risk Management if
Ransomware is involved,
insurance co directly
handles
Activation of the King County
Emergency Operations
Center / Joint Information
Center
If WATER Contamina-
tion involved:
Martin Pastucha
Mayor /
Council
RPD
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
City
Communications
3 CYBERATTACKS ON CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Seattle / King County Public Health
– will disseminate messaging to share
OUTREACH PLAN: Seattle / King County
Public Health will speak on our behalf,
Emergency Management and Communications
will disseminate information as it is available.
Communications and EM will work in
partnership on relaying Renton-specific
messaging on wht is closed,
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “An incident involving (INSERT
DISASTER AT LOCATION) has occurred. The
City will be updating information as it becomes
available at (WEB LINK OR ALTERNATE MEDIA
FORMAT HERE).”
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN WEBSITE
IF AVAILABLE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES TO
LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER TO ENSURE
CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE CONTENT.
LEAD DIVISION: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT / COMMUNICATIONS
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 50 of 63
4 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
4 PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCIES
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Defer to SKCPH
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: N/A. Re-post or take direction from
Seattle-King County Public Health
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE
CONTENT. COMMUNICATIONS IS THE
CONTENT OWNER HERE, CONTENT WILL BE
PROVIDED BY OR RE-DIRECTED TO SKCPH.
King County EOC
Seattle – King County Public Health
CAO / DCAO
Communications
Director
Post to Web, Send
web link to all
internal parties
Draft Internal
statement, activate
webpage with
direction from
SKCPH; send to
CAO/DCAO for
approval Post Renton-specific
information to social,
follow SKCPH
Renton EOC
Duty Officer
Mayor / Council
LEAD DIVISION: SEATTLE-KING COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH
Direction will be provided to EM, Comms from the King County Emergency Operations Center.
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 51 of 63
5 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
5 CIVIL UNREST, RIOTS & PROTESTS
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Incident Command
»Chief Jon Schuldt
»External Federal Agencies as involved
OUTREACH PLAN: During our upcoming
Council retreat, offer media training for
electeds to ensure understanding of the chain
of command when speaking publicly about
city crisis issues (G402). Ensure all protocol are
followed as directed from incident command.
Content owner will be RPD.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “An incident involving (INSERT
DISASTER AT LOCATION) has occurred.
The City will be updating information as it
becomes available at (WEB LINK HERE).”
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE
CONTENT. CONTENT OWNERS ARE RPD IN
THIS CASE.
CAO/ DCAO
Approve internal
statement for
Comms to send
Post on social
with link back
to web, post as
updates available
Renton Police Incident Command
Draft Internal/
External
Statement
Prompt ESK6 for
evacuations
Post to web,
Send web link to
all internal parties
Activate other
King County EOC
jurisdictions
Post to social,
follow Incident
Command
directive
EOC Duty Officer
Mayor / Council
Chief
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Communications
(Renton Police Dept
and City Comms
collaborate
LEAD DIVISION: RENTON POLICE
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 52 of 63
6 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
6 INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS, CHEMICAL SPILLS OR EXPLOSIONS
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Risk Management – Krista Kolaz
»Public Works – Martin Paschua, Admin.
»Renton Regional Fire Authority –
Fire Chief Steve Heitman (explosions)
»External Stakeholders / Contractors as
appropriate / responsible
OUTREACH PLAN: Content owner will be
Communications. Risk Management will be
the lead and will consult with our insurance
agency for liability issues, while the supporting
divisions will provide information based on the
type and location of the incident.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “An incident involving (INSERT
DISASTER AT LOCATION) has occurred.
The City will be updating information as it
becomes available at (WEB LINK HERE).”
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE
CONTENT. CONTENT OWNERS ARE RPD IN
THIS CASE.
CAO/ DCAO
Approve internal
statement for
Comms to send
Renton Police Incident Initial Notificaton
Draft Internal/
External Statement
with SME
Post to Web,
Send web link to all
internal parties
Activate
other King
County EOC
jurisdictions
Post to social, align
with RPD to amplify
RRFD message
EOC Duty
Officer Mayor / Council
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Communications
to ensure proper
SME/ PIO is ready
LEAD DIVISION: COMMUNICATIONS
with input from: Risk Management / Public Works / Renton Regional Fire Authority
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 53 of 63
7 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Renton Police Department –
Chief Jon Schuldt
»Public Works –
Martin Paschua. Administrator;
Transportation Director Jim Seitz
»Airport – TBD Airport Manager
OUTREACH PLAN: Emergency Management
will be the lead, while the supporting divisions
will provide information based on the type and
location of the incident.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “An incident involving (INSERT
DISASTER AT LOCATION) has occurred.
The City will be updating information as it
becomes available at (WEB LINK HERE).”
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE
CONTENT.
CAO/ DCAO
Approve internal
statement for
Comms to send
EOC Duty Officer RPD
Draft Internal/
External Statement
with SME
Post to Web,
Send web link to all
internal parties
PW
Transportation
Systems
Hazardous
Materials Team
Post to social, align
with RPD to share
city post
National
Transportation
Safety Board
(NTSB)
Mayor /
Council
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Communications
to ensure proper
SME/ PIO is ready
LEAD DIVISION: EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
with direction from RPD, Airport and Public Works
7 TRANSPORTATION ACCIDENTS
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 54 of 63
8 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
CAO/ DCAO
Approve internal
statement for
Comms to send
Renton Police
Draft Internal/
External Statement
with SME
Post to Web,
Send web link to all
internal parties
King County
Sheriff’s Office King County JIC
Post to social, align
with RPD to share
city post
All Staff
Notification (for
safety of all in
multiple locations)
Mayor /
Council
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Communications to
follow RPD postings
and share on city
platforms
8 PUBLIC SAFETY EMERGENCIES
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Renton Police Department –
Chief Jon Schuldt
OUTREACH PLAN: Renton Police Department
will be the lead, city comms will share RPD
messaging with city audience, city leadership
(Mayor) will provide statement of support
depending on the appropriate direction from
RPD and details of the incident.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “WARNING: an active shooter
incident is in process at (LOCATION HERE).
Renton Police Department is on the scene and
advises residents to avoid the area and shelter
in place. Renton Police Department will be
updating information as it becomes available
at (WEB LINK HERE). For immediate safety
inquiries dial (CRISIS LINE HERE).”
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE
CONTENT.
LEAD DIVISION: RENTON POLICE DEPARTMENT
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 55 of 63
9 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
9 ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTERS
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Defer to SKCPH
»Internal – Water Quality Staff
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: N/A. Re-post or take direction from
Seattle-King County Public Health
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE
CONTENT. COMMUNICATIONS IS THE
CONTENT OWNER HERE, CONTENT WILL BE
PROVIDED BY OR RE-DIRECTED TO SKCPH.
King County EOC
Seattle – King County Public Health
CAO / DCAO
Communications
Director
Post to Web,
Send web link to all
internal parties
Draft Internal
statement, activate
webpage with
direction from
SKCPH; send to
CAO/DCAO for
approval
Post Renton-specific
information to social,
follow SKCPH
Renton EOC
Duty Officer
Mayor / Council
LEAD DIVISION: SEATTLE-KING COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH
Direction will be provided to EM, Comms from the King County Emergency Operations Center.
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 56 of 63
10 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
10 FINANCIAL CRISES
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Kari Roller, Finance Administrator
»CED – Recession, Jobs + Employment
Impact
»Mayor – Human Services, Staffing Levels
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “The impact of XYZ event will
be felt throughout the country, including
the City of Renton. The safety and health of
our residents is our first concern, today and
always. We will be working to measure the
impact and report on potential impacts as they
occur. For more information, visit (DEDICATED
WEBPAGE OR BANG THE TABLE).
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE
CONTENT. COMMUNICATIONS IS THE
CONTENT OWNER.
Finance Department
Communications
Director
Draft City statement, activate
webpage or Bang the Table for
complex long-term coverage;
send to CAO/DCAO for approval
Post to Web/ BTT,
Send web link to
all internal parties
Draft Mayor Statement,
post to web/BTT and
send to media
Actively maintain BTT/
web during long-term
crisis into recovery
Mayor / Council
CAO / DCAO
LEAD DIVISION: FINANCE DEPARTMENT
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 57 of 63
11 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
11 OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING
CAO/ DCAO
Renton Police Incident Command
Draft Internal/
External StatementMayor Statement
– after report is
issued, express
empathy for
loss of life, share
details on next
steps
Post to web,
Send web link to
all internal parties
Refer all questions
or inquiries to the
Valley Independent
Force Investigative
Team
Valley Independent
Force Investigative
Team Mayor / Council
Chief
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Communications
(Renton Police Dept
and City Comms
collaborate
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Valley Independent Force
Investigative Team
OUTREACH PLAN: All direction will be
taken from the Valley Independent Force
Investigative Team. RPD will not publicly
comment. State law dictates that this is how
it will be investigated, and this is how it will be
communicated.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “An incident has happened involving
XYZ, an independent investigation will occur.
The Valley Independent Force Investigative
Team will be issuing a report.”
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP-TO-DATE
CONTENT. CONTENT OWNERS ARE
EXTERNAL – VALLEY INDEPENDENT FORCE
INVESTIGATIVE TEAM -- IN THIS CASE.
LEAD DIVISION: THE VALLEY INDEPENDENT FORCE
INVESTIGATIVE TEAM (RPD will not be involved)
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 58 of 63
12 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»City Attorney – Shane Moloney
»Mayor – Armondo Pavone
»Human Resources / Risk Management –
Administrator, Kim Gilman
OUTREACH PLAN: Regarding reputation-
based issue of either personal or professional
misconduct by elected or appointed officials
or staff. Loop in City Administration, Risk
Management and Legal when an issue is
brought to light. City statement will be issued,
media inquiries will be handled through
Communications. No webpage for personnel
issues will be set up, inquiries will be handled
on a case-by-case basis, and no definitive
statement will be made until an investigation
has been finalized, and a course of action
decided upon.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “The City has been made aware of
an incident (if professional and visible, mention
location “at…. “; if personal, leave at “an incident.”)
involving (an elected official, a staff member, etc.).
(STAFF MEMBER: The staff member in question
has been placed on administrative leave while
a full investigation takes place. The City of
Renton is committed to upholding high ethical
standards for staff members.”)
(COUNCILMEMBER: The behavior in question
will be fully investigated. The City of Renton is
committed to upholding high ethical standards.)
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES TO
LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER TO ENSURE
CORRECT AND UP TO DATE CONTENT.
LEAD DIVISION: DEPARTMENT IN WHICH THE ISSUE ORIGINATED
Mayor / CAO /
DCAO
Originating Department Administrator
Draft Internal/
External
Statement Approve
Internal/External
Statement Post statement to
web, answer media
inquiries on an
as-received basis
HR/RM City Attorney
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Communications
12 PERSONNEL ISSUES
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 59 of 63
13 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»City Attorney – Shane Moloney
»RPD – Investigation
»Human Resources / Risk Management –
Administrator, Kim Gilman
OUTREACH PLAN: Risk Management and
RPD will begin an investigation to define
if tampering or vandalism as the cause, if
needed maintenance was the cause, etc. A
city statement will be issued, media inquiries
will be handled through Communications.
No definitive statement will be made until an
investigation has been finalized, and a course
of action decided upon.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “The City has been made aware of
an incident involving an (equipment failure /
injury) at (LOCATION HERE). An investigation
will begin immediately to determine cause,
further details will be posted as they become
available.”
IN THE CASE OF DISRUPTION OF SERVICE
AND/OR LACK OF ACCESS, include direct
contact for service, and/or detour route.
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP TO DATE
CONTENT.
LEAD DIVISION: DEPARTMENT IN WHICH THE ISSUE ORIGINATED
Mayor / CAO /
DCAO
Failure or Injury Notification: RFA / RPD
Draft Internal/
External
Statement Approve
Internal/External
Statement
Post statement
to web, answer
media inquiries
on an as-received
basis
Post to social. Live updates on area stability
or re-opening of routes are permitted by the
onsite agency (RPD, RFA), City to share
HR/RM City Attorney
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Communications
13 EQUIPMENT FAILURES, INJURIES CAUSED BY CITY-OWNED PROPERTY
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 60 of 63
14 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»Renton Regional Fire Authority
»RPD – Supporting RRFA
OUTREACH PLAN: RRFA will lead. RPD will
support RRFA efforts, and report back.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: “The City has been made aware
of an incident involving an (equipment failure
/ injury) at (LOCATION HERE). @RRFA and
@RPD are on scene, information will be shared
as available.”
IN THE CASE OF DISRUPTION OF SERVICE
AND/OR LACK OF ACCESS, include direct
contact for service restoration (water, etc)
and/or detour route.
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP TO DATE
CONTENT. RRFA WILL OWN CONTENT.
LEAD DIVISION: RENTON REGIONAL FIRE AUTHORITY
14 LARGE SCALE FIRE– NATURAL AND NON-NATURAL
Mayor / CAO /
DCAO
Renton Regional Fire Authority
Share information
as received from
RRFA / RPD
Communications
Director
Post to social.
Live updates on
area stability
or re-opening
of routes are
permitted by the
onsite agency (RPD,
RFA), City to share
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233 RPD
Defer media
inquiries to RRFA /
RPD
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 61 of 63
15 // City of Renton Crisis Communications Plan & Responses
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS:
»RPD – Chief Jon Schuldt
»Mayor Armondo Pavone
OUTREACH PLAN: 1. Family to be notified
first. 2. Internal notifications happen to a)
Officers first, b) RPD in total second, c) Mayor
to send notice to City in total. 3. External
notifications. Chief to make public statement;
Mayor to share sympathy and honor the fallen
officer for their service to our city.
PRE-DRAFTED STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE
POSTING: N/A here. Public statement from
Chief and/or Mayor will be first outreach from
PD or City.
STATEMENT TO BE POSTED TO MAIN
WEBSITE. ALL MEDIA LINKS, QR CODES
TO LINK BACK TO WEBSITE IN ORDER
TO ENSURE CORRECT AND UP TO DATE
CONTENT. RRFA WILL OWN CONTENT.
LEAD DIVISION: RENTON POLICE
15 OFFICER KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY
Mayor / CAO
/ DCAO
Internal notification to
Officers, followed by
RPD staff, followed by
City of Renton all-staff
Communications
Director to work in
tandem with RPD
Communications
on internal
statement /
external statement
RPD and Mayor to
approve internal and
external statements;
align with timing
RPD to set up
internal-only
dedicated phone line
for questions and or
inquiries; direction to
counseling available
for staff
RPD to notify elected
officials and staff
on memorial service
planned by “Behind the
Badge”
Distribute
statements on
web, to media
Elected officials and
relevant staff members
to attend memorial
service
Call Duty Phone:
206-402-7233
Family is first to be
notified. NO OTHER
ACTION TAKEN UNTIL
THIS IS COMPLETE.
Renton Police
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 62 of 63
AGENDA ITEM #7. a)
Page 63 of 63