Our Team

  • Penny Sweet

    A long-standing Kirkland civic leader, Penny served on the City Council from 2010 through 2025, including several years as Mayor beginning in 2019. A resident since 1985, she navigated the city through the pandemic while championing public safety, human services, and affordable housing. Locally, she and her husband, State Representative Larry Springer, operated The Grape Choice wine shop for over 40 years. Additionally, she founded the non-profit Celebrate Kirkland! and has held board positions with regional organizations such as Hopelink and the Cascade Water Alliance.

  • Judy Nguyen

    Judy is a Kirkland-based professional program manager and DIY enthusiast, as well as a dedicated community volunteer and educator. Drawing from her experience as a first-time homeowner, she co-teaches "First Time Homeowners 101" at the Shoreline and NE Seattle Tool Libraries, helping residents master budgeting, material selection, and essential repairs. Her commitment to resource sharing led her to co-found Homebodiy, a digital tool inspired by her own home renovations that helps homeowners organize projects and budgets.

  • Jonathan Heuer

    As a Kirkland-based nonprofit leader and Board Chair of the Kirkland Community Foundation, Jonathan is the driving force behind Ignite Kirkland and co-founder of the Crossing Kirkland festival. His community building is informed by his experience with the "library of things" model, which he utilized for a complete home renovation via the San Francisco Tool Lending Library. Additionally, he leads the College Essay Workshop, providing free coaching to seniors across the Lake Washington School District.

  • Kurt Dresner

    Kurt is a Kirkland-based community organizer and volunteer who co-founded Liveable Kirkland in 2017 to advocate for sustainable and inclusive community growth. A resident since 2009, he leverages his background as a professional engineer to champion efficient resource sharing and public infrastructure. His civic involvement focuses on housing policy, safe streets, and sustainability, reflecting a deep commitment to building a more connected and functional community.