HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/21/2026 05.B. Consideration of letter to KIMA-TV 'V
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BUSINESS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
AGENDA STATEMENT
Item No. 5.B.
For Meeting of: April 21, 2026
ITEM TITLE: Consideration of letter to KIMA-TV
SUBMITTED BY: Vicki Baker, City Manager
SUMMARY EXPLANATION:
At the April 14, 2026 Council meeting, Councilmember Byers shared a draft letter to be sent to KIMA
regarding the station's departure from Yakima. The motion was made to bring the letter to the April 21,
2026 Council meeting.
Attached is a copy of the letter to be sent to KIMA. If approved, the letter will be finalized and sent to the
station.
ITEM BUDGETED: N/A
STRATEGIC PRIORITY 24-25:
RECOMMENDATION:
ATTACHMENTS:
KIMA draft.docx
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To the Leadership, Staff, and Alumni of KIMA-TV,
The Yakima City Council extends its heartfelt appreciation to KIMA-TV for 73 years of
dedicated service to the people of Yakima. Since first going on the air in 1953 as Central
Washington's pioneering television station, KIMA has been a trusted source of local
news, public information, and community storytelling. For generations, residents have
relied on KIMA to cover the issues that matter most—from local government and public
safety to agriculture, education, and the everyday moments that define life in the Yakima
Valley.
KIMA's long-standing presence has created a deep and meaningful connection with our
community. The station's journalists, technicians, and staff have not only documented
Yakima's history but have helped shape its civic identity. Many Yakima families grew up
watching KIMA, and many local professionals began their careers within its newsroom,
carrying Yakima's story with them wherever they went.
We acknowledge that the recent sale of KIMA-TV came as a surprise to many in our
community. This reaction reflects the station's significance and the role it has played as
a familiar and trusted institution for more than seven decades. While change can be
unexpected, it also highlights the enduring impact KIMA has had on the people it
served.
Today, the City of Yakima honors KIMA-TV's legacy and expresses sincere gratitude for
its contributions to our civic life. The station's commitment to local journalism and
community service will remain an important part of Yakima's story.
With appreciation,
The Yakima City Council
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