Surge of refugees speak of need for shelter to Kent City Council meeting Tuesday night

The Kent City Council meeting held on Tuesday night, June 4, 2024, saw a surge of public comments from international refugees seeking a solution to their dire living situation. Dozens of asylum seekers from Venezuela, Congo, and Angola spoke about the hardships of living in a makeshift camp in Kent, highlighting their need for shelter, sanitation, and the ability to work towards a stable life. Mayor Ralph acknowledged the complex situation involving their request for the use of a property controlled by King County.

Refugees Seek Use Of Vacant Hotel

Dozens of men, women, and children who are currently living in a refugee camp spoke during Public Comments. Interpreters were available for several languages. Due to the large number of people signed up to speak, Mayor Dana Ralph informed the room that each speaker would only have two minutes to speak, reduced from the usual three minutes, and that included the time required for interpretation.

Before commenters spoke, Mayor Ralph explained that on June 1st a number of asylum seekers from Venezuela, Congo, and Angola had created a camp on property that is currently being leased by King County. The county has told the city of Kent that no permission was given for this camp, and the group was advised on June 2nd that they are trespassing and must leave. However, a more recent update made clear that the King County Sheriff will not participate in enforcement of that trespass order– and nor will the city of Kent. Mayor Ralph said the city does not own or control the land or the hotel that the refugees are asking for the use of.