The Mill Creek Art & Beautification (A&B) Board presented the recipients of the 2026 Great Garden Awards to the City Council during its September 22 meeting.
Each year, the A&B Board, currently chaired by Peter Furtado, tours residential gardens throughout Mill Creek to identify and nominate standout properties. Selections are based on overall presentation, creativity, and the significant time and effort invested in enhancing neighborhood beauty.
This year’s presentation to Council marks the final Great Garden Awards delivered by Chair Furtado, who will step down from the Board on October 31, 2026. “Serving as Chair of the Art & Beautification Board over the past three years has been a true privilege,” said Furtado. “I look forward to seeing the Board continue to inspire and beautify our wonderful city. It has been an honor to serve alongside such dedicated neighbors and staff.”
The Board began touring in July and met on August 26, 2026, to determine the final award recipients. Ten recipients were selected and several chose to participate, including Jim Cavelero, Jerome and Nancy Mullins, Matthew Payne, Naveen Vijayvergiya, Bill and Patty DeGroodt, and Terence Carroll.
The City of Mill Creek extends its heartfelt congratulations to all 2026 Great Garden Award recipients. Their dedication to cultivating beautiful, welcoming spaces reflects the pride and community spirit that make Mill Creek such a special place to call home.
You can find the chosen gardens at:
| 15519 3rd Dr. SE | River Crossing |
| 14809 26th Ave. SE | Fairway |
| 14610 32nd Dr. SE | Brighton |
| 16218 33rd Ave. SE | The Parks |
| 4118 139th Pl. SE | Appletree North |
| 1514 142nd Pl. SE | Douglas Fir |
| 3927 145th St. SE | Appletree at Thomas Lake |
| 2416 146th St. SE | Huckleberry |
| 1701 166th Pl. SE | The Lakes |
| 15409 14th Ave. SE | Juniper |
For more information on the Great Garden Awards and the work of the Art & Beautification Board, please visit our Boards and Commissions.