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cmd071321EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL VIRTUAL ONLINE MEETING APPROVED MINUTES July 13, 2021 ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT Mike Nelson, Mayor Susan Paine, Council President Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember Luke Distelhorst, Councilmember Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember Vivian Olson, Councilmember Laura Johnson, Councilmember ELECTED OFFICIALS ABSENT Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember 1. CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE STAFF PRESENT Phil Williams, Public Works Director Patrick Doherty, Econ. Dev & Comm. Serv. Dir. Angie Feser, Parks, Rec., Cultural Arts & Human Services Director Jeff Taraday, City Attorney Scott Passey, City Clerk Dave Rohde, GIS Analyst ALSO PRESENT Brook Roberts, Student Representative The Edmonds City Council virtual online meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Nelson. The meeting was opened with the flag salute. 2. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Council President Paine read the City Council Land Acknowledgement Statement: "We acknowledge the original inhabitants of this place, the Sdohobsh (Snohomish) people and their successors the Tulalip Tribes, who since time immemorial have hunted, fished, gathered, and taken care of these lands. We respect their sovereignty, their right to self-determination, and we honor their sacred spiritual connection with the land and water." 3. ROLL CALL City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present, participating remotely, with the exception of Councilmember Fraley-Monillas. COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DISTELHORST, TO EXCUSE COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 4. PRESENTATIONS 5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 1 COUNCIL PRESIDENT PAINE, MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER L. JOHNSON, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 3 t1101 WrIN mrsillu Iu I oleo W Mayor Nelson invited participants and described the procedures for audience comments. Neil Tibbott, Edmonds, spoke to moving ahead with construction of the Civic Park project. He explained he was very familiar with the project, having attended almost all the public outreach as well as being on the City Council when the final project was designed and approved. He pointed out in addition to Mathay Ballinger Park, there is also lake access park land as well as the Interurban Trail which is listed among park amenities. The Interurban Trail runs on the west side of Lake Ballinger and connects with the Lake Ballinger park system operated by the City of Mountlake Terrace. That park has over 100 acres of facilities easily accessible to Edmonds residents and is larger than any park operated by the City of Edmonds. It is not unusual for city residents to utilize parks operated by other cities; for example, many Edmonds residents use the Lynnwood pool in the winter and residents from neighboring cities use Yost during the summer. He encouraged the Council to move swiftly to build Civic Field Park downtown; it offers unique and diverse amenities that are attractive to people from every corner of the City. Visitors will be able to enjoy downtown shops and linger at the park, or whole families can visit the park together and find an activity for every age and ability. It is truly a unique park, partially due to its unique location, but mostly because of its thoughtful design. He encouraged the Council to fund Civic Park construction and to do it quickly. Natalie Seitz, Edmonds, commented on the City's intent to regulate the maintenance of trees on private property. The record breaking temperatures a few weeks ago have had a devastating impact on the community environment; climate change is likely to exacerbate extreme heat events and are part of a long term trend toward hotter, drier summers. Tree species, including native species encouraged by the City's existing tree code, are likely to decline and die off in coming years. Seattle's master arborist identifies if soil is dry and roots are four inches below the surface, they should be watered lightly for about an hour every week. She recommended googling KIRO 7's story on local trees still feeling the burn after surviving intense historic heatwave for further information and resources. Speaking from her own experience related to tree limb failure, she saw a connection between drought or dry, hot conditions and trees losing branches during the summer or in the first wind event. Branch fall creates a hazard to both people and property. The result of regulating and prohibiting the removal of trees is the implicit requirement for property owners to retain trees or live with increasing hazards in the coming years, The City will not pay her water bill for the weeks leading up to or the weeks following the last heat wave and won't pay for maintenance in future years as trees begin to struggle and regular inspections, watering, and other maintenance become increasingly critical to manage hazard and liability. Ms. Seitz continued, the Council made these costs and hazards required for a portion of her property with the emergency ordinance. Having undertaken these costs, for some residents for decades for large trees, property owners are unlikely to receive a thank you from their neighbors or the City when it becomes necessary to remove a struggling tree. Instead, they will likely be met by unsolicited comments, misdirection from City arborists and significant permit fees and/or fines. The reality of maintaining trees already holds significant disincentives; the City's regulatory agenda will only further disincentivize property owners from planting and maintaining trees which will kill regeneration of the private urban forest while simultaneously funding publicly maintained trees and events in the Bowl. The City's narrow focus on preserving the private urban forest in its current location misses the reality of climate change, existing trees will struggle and die, as well as the opportunity for trees to be equally prioritized and burdened across all properties in Edmonds. She presented an overview of several strategies that would be effective in promoting an urban forest at the June 23' Planning Board meeting and hoped to discuss them with the Council during future meetings. It is deeply unfortunate the City Council has chosen to only undertake the Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 2 last set of revisions outside the Planning Board structure and public participation. She intuited it was undertaken in this manner to prevent public disclosure of legal advice. This process stinks and is a detriment to transparency, public trust and the partnership the City needs to forage with property owners to maintain trees in the landscape. Linda Ferkingstad, Edmonds, commented the meeting is not broadcasting on Channel 21. She provided excerpts from the City's website, a community such as Edmonds is subject to constant growth pressures. As part of the cooperative planning process, Edmonds is a mature community with a small supply of vacant, developable land. Any growth or development should strive to preserve for itself and its neighbors the following values: light including direct sunlight, privacy, public views, open spaces, shorelines and other natural features, freedom from air, water, noise and visual pollution and the state framework goals. Urban growth: encourage development in urban areas, reduce sprawl, reduce the inappropriate conversion of undeveloped land into sprawling low density development. Economic development: Encourage economic development that is consistent with Comprehensive Plans, promote economic opportunity for all citizens of the state. Property rights: private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation having been made. The property rights of land owners shall be protected from arbitrary and discriminatory actions. Permits: applications for both state and local government permits should be processed in a timely and fair manner to ensure predictability. Natural resource industries: maintain and enhance natural resource based industries including productive timber, agricultural and fisheries industries. Encourage the conservation of productive forest lands and productive agricultural lands and discourage incompatible uses. Adopt a system of codes, standards and incentives to promote development that achieves Growth Management goals while maintaining Edmonds community character and charm in sustainable ways. Development patterns: the region will focus growth within already urbanized areas. Ms. Ferkingstad said undeveloped Edmonds properties in single family residential zones with trees will now become unsellable or have decreased value due to the tree ordinance, harming property owners. Most of these properties are adjacent or very near the 329 acres of parks owned by the city or county. Development won't impact parks but will supply much needed homes for the community. She questioned when the Council will end the tree ordinance that charges homeowners who want to build homes for 100% the worth of their trees with few exceptions. She questioned whether the Council will determine existing homes scheduled for demolition should be valued at 100% of their value paid to the City before they can be removed to build a new home; it is the same issue. Property owners pay taxes on their properties and own their trees and should be allowed to do what they need to do. (Written comments submitted to PublicComment@Edmondswa.gov are attached.) 7. APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS Councilmember K. Johnson requested Items 1 and 7 be removed from the Consent Agenda. COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO APPROVE THE REMAINDER OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows: 2. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF JULY 6, 2021 3. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF JULY 6, 2021 4. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS 5. UPDATE TO CITY COMPENSATION POLICY 6. RESOLUTION REJECTING RACIALLY BASED HARASSMENT AND HATE CRIMES Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 3 8. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT 1. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF JULY 6, 2021 (formerly Consent Agenda Item 7.1) Councilmember K. Johnson said the minutes list her as absent but she was attending by phone. COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO APPROVE THE COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF JULY 6, 2021 AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 2. ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE FOR THE SECOND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (formerly Consent Agenda Item 7.7) Councilmember K. Johnson said she not able to participate in the discussion and could not vote against the decision so she will vote no on the ordinance. COUNCIL PRESIDENT PAINE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DISTELHORST, TO APPROVE THE ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE FOR THE SECOND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH. Councilmember Olson asked why Councilmember K. Johnson was opposed. Councilmember K. Johnson commented the code was not changed when COVID began and now that the Council is coming out of COVID, meetings should remain consistent with the code. Once the Governor allows fully in -person meetings, that means the Council should meet in person and allow the public to attend. She was fine with having a Zoom element, but did not understand how the Council could return to in -person meetings but not have in -person committees meetings. Councilmember Buckshnis agreed with Councilmember K. Johnson, commenting Zoom has changed meetings and provided closed captioning. She recalled the reason it was decided to have committee meetings remain in Zoom was to allow them to be staggered, allow people to see the closed captioning and because committee meetings are not well attended. Although she does not like the Zoom format, she agreed it was advantageous for committee meetings because it allows staggered meetings and for them to be videorecorded. Councilmember Distelhorst pointed out the scheduling conflict with the municipal court. Committee meetings via Zoom allows better access for staff to go between meetings as well as better access for the public and local media to view the meetings and overall is a more visible format for committee meetings rather than holding them at same time. Councilmember K. Johnson said she received feedback that the length of the committee meetings was not sufficient. She asked if sufficient time was allotted for the Finance and Parks & Public Works (PPW) Committees. Councilmember Distelhorst answered PPW was extended from 60 to 120 minutes if necessary and Finance was extended from 60 minutes to 90 minutes; that information is on packet page 58. Councilmember Olson said she was against hybrid meetings for electeds but in favor of it for everyone else. She was talked into it because COVID is a factor for some who have family members in their household who are under age 12 and unable to be vaccinated or who are immunocompromised. The electeds at that meeting expressed that they want to be there and plan to be there, but if electeds do not, there would certainly be cause to readdress that format. She was comfortable with this as a starting point and looked forward to seeing how it plays out. She thanked the Council for the discussion, especially Councilmember K. Johnson who had information to add. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 4 Councilmember L. Johnson recalled last week she gave examples of why still providing the ability to participate via Zoom would be beneficial and one of those was if a Councilmember gets sick. This week is a good example, she has head cold that is going through her family. The Council likely wouldn't want her around them, she is heavily medicated to get through the meeting, but it wouldn't be fair to be around Councilmembers or anyone else. People will be more cautious in this new world and anyone coughing or sniffling needs to be respectful. Zoom will provide that accommodation and ability among other things and she supported sticking with it. Council President Paine relayed the City was ordered through OPMA to also provide a virtual presence for all meetings. This is an opportunity to customize it until we are out of the health emergency and there are still restrictions from the Governor's emergency proclamation. That information was included in last week's packet. Councilmember Buckshnis commented if 90 minutes is not sufficient for the Finance Committee and special meetings are still required, the timing of committee meetings can be revisited. 9. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 1. CIVIC CENTER PLAYFIELD PARK CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS Parks, Recreation, Cultural Arts & Human Services Director Angie Feser requested Council consideration to award the construction bid to A-1 Landscaping and Construction in the amount of $10,135,596 which includes the base bid plus bid alternate #2, rubber track surfacing. In addition two other contracts for construction support require Council approval, 1) an amendment to the existing landscape architecture professional services agreement with Walker Macy in the amount of $91,473 and 2) a new professional services agreement for inspection services provided KBA, Inc. in the amount of $613,251. Ms. Feser explained the proposed improvements of the 8-acre downtown park include youth athletic fields, upgraded sports lighting, permanent restrooms, shade pavilion, improved skate park, petanque court grove, a pollinator meadow, tennis, pickleball and basketball courts, a 1/3-mile perimeter walking path, exercise stations, a fully inclusive playground, picnic areas, public art, landscaping, street improvements and more. Utility improvements include new water and sewer as well as new storm drainage infrastructure for the site that includes facilities that provide stormwater detention and improve water quality. Construction activities will include demolition of the existing improvements, site preparation and grading as well as utility installation, surface paving, landscaping and installation of the various amenities. The July 6t' Council meeting included a detailed presentation regarding the park site history, design elements, funding sources and expenditures. Councilmember Buckshnis commented this project was discussed in detail at the Finance Committee meeting and the committee recommended bonding to fund any shortfall. Further details regarding bonding will be discussed in the future. Councilmember L. Johnson recalled at the Council's last meeting she stated that she followed the Civic Field project from the beginning, first as someone who lives near the park and now as a Councilmember. Her son is looking forward to the new skatepark and several features appeal to her personally. As a Councilmember she was excited for everything the park has to offer to the community, specifically the intergenerational nature of the park, the addition of a inclusive playground, and the Boys & Girls Club which will be the number one user of the park. As a Councilmember, she has also felt conflict as she worked to balance her support for the park with the rising costs as well as her position that there needs to be more Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 5 focus on community amenities such as parks in other areas of Edmonds, specifically the Lake Ballinger neighborhood east of Highway 99. The argument in favor is that the Council should move forward because Civic Field has been in the works for a long time with significant community involvement that determined it will be a great asset for the community and she does not disagree with that. The Council heard the same arguments for the 4t' Avenue Cultural project and is likely to hear it for other long term projects. Councilmember L. Johnson recognized there has always been an inequitable focus and inequitable distribution of City resources; when does that change? When are all citizens and all neighborhoods in Edmonds represented? When she was campaigning, the number one need she heard was to expand focus to include neighborhoods outside the Bowl and that was her intent as a Councilmember, yet, here we are again looking at another project in the Bowl. Where is the equal commitment to providing amenities in other neighborhoods? She recognized that addressing this imbalance will take time, but nothing will change if there is only lip service. For the last decade Councilmember Fraley-Monillas has tried to bring attention to the uneven distribution of resources and focus in her neighborhood, the Lake Ballinger neighborhood east of Highway 99. Using Councilmember Fraley-Monillas' and her own address in the Bowl, Councilmember L. Johnson explained she took inventory of nearby parks and amenities. Within a'/z mile of her house, her children and neighbors enjoy the Pine Street Park; 7t' & Elm Park; the Frances Anderson Center with playfields, community center, library, rooftop promenade; and Westgate Elementary outside school hours. Within 1/2 mile of Councilmember Fraley-Monillas' home, she and her neighbors have Mathay Ballinger Park. Within one mile of her home, she and her neighbors also have access to Yost Park and pool, Civic Field, Sunset Park, Olympic Beach Park, Brackett Landing North and South, Marina Beach Park, Off Leash Park, Hummingbird Park, the Waterfront Center, Sherwood Elementary and Woodway campus after hours and more. Within one mile of Councilmember Fraley-Monillas' home, she and her neighbors have access to the gravel Lake Ballinger access, useful only if one owns small watercraft equipment. She summarized the amenities she and her neighbors enjoy within a one mile walk include three neighborhood parks, two community parks and many regional parks. Councilmember L. Johnson continued, the oldest park, City Park, with its 14 acres of old growth trees was an incredible gift from early civic leaders. Today this centerpiece of the park system was full of people of all ages, making using of the spray park, the vast play equipment offerings, ballfields, climbing rock, 68 picnic tables, 12 benches, 5 covered pavilions, 2 smaller shelters, 7 barbeques, 8 locations for drinking water access, 2 full facility restrooms, 37 trashcans and 130 parking spaces. Pine Street Park, located a block from her home has a ballfeld, drinking fountain, porta-potty, 11 parking spaces, 2 picnic tables and a bench for adults to sit while kids play on the swings and play equipment. Councilmember L. Johnson continued, to those who think she is overplaying her concern about inequity, she said by contrast Councilmember Fraley-Monillas' neighborhood park has two half basketball courts, play equipment, one picnic table, one trash can and four parking spaces. The times she visited, she observed many grandparents bringing children to the park, but there is not even a play for them to sit while the kids play, not to mention the lack of a drinking fountain, porta-potty and only one trash can across the park by the only picnic table. Some have said the residents east of Highway 99 can just walk to the newly upgraded Esperance Park; that park is 1 %2 miles away from Councilmember Fraley-Monillas' and her neighbors and requires crossing Highway 99, a 7-lane highway that long ago was identified as one of the most dangerous of its type and unfortunately a decade was not dedicated to attempting to fund a safe crossing of Highway 99 and there is not yet a HAWK signal like the one on SR 104 between Pt. Edwards and City Park. Not only is Esperance Park not in Edmonds, but it is also 1 %2 miles away and it is a dangerous road. The Ballinger Park in Mountlake Terrace was mentioned earlier tonight; that park is over 2 miles away and also not in Edmonds. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 6 Councilmember L. Johnson said she was using tonight as an opportunity to shine a light on the huge disparity that exists with how Edmonds allocates its community resources. She acknowledged she could do a protest vote, but not only would she be on the losing end, but a vote like that will also not represent the value the Civic Field project will bring to the community. Instead she will support moving forward with the base project and she hoped that Council, herself included, will start to give more than just lip service to the need to also focus time and resources outside the Bowl and the downtown waterfront area. As soon as possible she hoped benches could be relocated from other parks to near the play equipment at Mathay Ballinger Park as well as adding a few more picnic tables and trash cans and considering a porta-potty. Long term, she recognized the Ballinger regional stormwater facility project includes a park upgrade component, but that project is in the early planning stages. She hoped during budget season, the Council would create a fund specifically earmarked toward community enhancements for the Lake Ballinger neighborhood which will be guided by the upcoming PROS Plan updates. She summarized she will vote yes on Civic Field but she hoped the time has come when the Council will finally do more for the Lake Ballinger community and other lesser or underserved neighborhoods. Mayor Nelson reminded Councilmembers to limit their discussions to the specific item on the agenda rather than other areas of the City. COUNCIL PRESIDENT PAINE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DISTELHORST, TO PROCEED WITH APPROVAL OF THE AWARD TO A-1 LANDSCAPING AND CONSTRUCTION FOR THE BASE BID AND ALTERNATE #2 FOR THE RUBBERIZED PATHWAY SURFACE FOR THE SUM OF $10,135,596 AND IN ADDITION APPROVE BOTH THE WALKER MACY PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT NO.2 FOR $91,473 AND THE KBA PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT OF $613,251. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilmember Buckshnis raised a point of order, the media contacted her to advise the meeting is not being videoed. City Clerk Scott Passey explained there is a technical problem broadcasting to the cable channel and streaming on the website. Zoom is available for anyone with a computer, Smartphone or regular phone; the meeting is being recorded on Zoom and that video will be uploaded to the website tomorrow. Staff has been unable to reboot server for the government access channels. Councilmember Olson raised a point of order, requesting a longer pause before votes are taken, especially on newer subjects. Although she had no debate to add to this item, there would not have been time to get the Mayor's attention between when the vote was called and the vote was taken. That happened one other time during today's meeting. Mayor Nelson answered he would do his best. 10. NEW BUSINESS 1. EDMONDS RESCUE PLAN FUND Community Services/Economic Development Director Patrick Doherty reviewed: • American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) o The ARPA was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden on 3/11/21 in response to the continuing health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic: ■ Over 33 million infected, 605,000 deaths ■ In April 2020, the national unemployment rate was highest in 70 years ■ As of April 2021 there were still 8.2 million fewer jobs than before the pandemic ■ Millions of households have faced food and housing insecurity ■ Businesses weathered closures, sharp declines in revenue, with many shutting down ■ Health care systems have been taxed to unprecedented levels Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 7 ■ Pandemic's health and economic impacts have been felt most severely by lower -income households and among people of color and other minority populations o ARPA amends the Social Security Act to provide funds directly to states, territories, tribal governments, metropolitan cities, non -entitlement units of local government (cities of under 50,000 population), and counties, allowing for the funds to be used to: ■ respond to the COVID-19 emergency or its negative economic impacts, including assistance to households, small businesses, and nonprofits or aid to impacted industries such as tourism, travel, and hospitality; ■ provide premium pay to essential workers or provide grants to employers of essential workers during the COVID-19 emergency; ■ provide government services to the extent of the reduction in revenue of such state, territory, or tribal government due to the COVID-19 emergency; or ■ make necessary investments in water, sewer, or broadband infrastructure o A Treasury Department 151-page Rule has been issued that provides more detailed guidance on the use of these funds. o ARPA will provide $11,893,099 to the City of Edmonds in two tranches: ■ $5,950,087.50 was received on 6/25/21 ■ The remaining $5,943,011.50 is expected approximately one year later ■ Funds are available for expenditures incurred as of 3/3/21 and through 12/31/24. Expenditures shall be considered "incurred" if they are obligated for projects or programs completed through 12/31/26. Edmonds Rescue Plan Fund o The proposed Ordinance would create the Edmonds Rescue Plan Fund and set out its intended uses. o Sections of the Ordinance: ■ Comprehensive set of "whereas" clauses that refer to the state of emergency and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, reference to the ARPA and its requirements and public purposes. ■ Section 1 accepts the $11,893,099. ■ Section 2 renames Fund 142, the Edmonds CARES Fund, to the Edmonds Rescue Plan Fund for receipt of the funds and expenditure of the funds. ■ Section 3 allows for the fund to be administered by the Administrative Services Director ■ Section 4 sets out the six program funds for expenditure of the Edmonds Rescue Plan Fund monies: - Account "A" is the "Edmonds Rescue Plan City Expenditures" account to reimburse City expenditures associated with responding to the COVID-19 health emergency and any resurgences in the future, including staffing, equipment, and supplies related to maintaining a safe workplace for employees and the visiting public, as well as necessary capital investments, such as enhancements to HVAC filter upgrades, etc. • $750,000 - Account `B" is the "Edmonds Rescue Plan Household Support" account into which $4,150,000 from the ARPA funds shall be allocated to reimburse those City expenditures incurred through administration of the following programs, in compliance with the ARPA eligibility criteria: • Household Support: Up to $3,000,000 for Grants to households earning no more than 40% of Edmonds Median Income for housing expenses, food, medical bills, childcare, internet access, and other household expenses. Up to 400 households may receive grants of up to $2,500 in 2021 and 2022. Up to 200 households may receive grants of up to $2,500 in 2023 and 2024. Utility Bill Support. Up to $150,000 for one-time grants to households earning no more than 40% of Edmonds Median Income in amounts up to $1,000 for up to 150 Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 8 households to help defray expenses derived from outstanding City of Edmonds utilities bills. • Housing Repair. Up to $1,000,000 for one-time grants to households earning no more than 40% of Edmonds Median Income or housing repair, especially focused on energy -saving measures such as roof repair, window replacement, HVAC repair/replacement, etc. Up to 200 grants at up to $5,000 each. MINOR CORRECTION TO SECTION 40): Account `B" shall be the "Edmonds Rescue Plan Household Support" account into which $4,150,000 from the ARPA funds shall be allocated to reimburse those City expenditures incurred through administration of the following programs, in compliance with the ARPA eligibility criteria: Household Support. Up to $3,000,000 for Grants to households earning no more than 40% of Edmonds Median Income for housing expenses, food, medical bills, childcare, internet access, and other household expenses. Up to 400 households may receive grants of up to $2,500 in 2021 and 2022. Up to 200 households may receive grants of up to $2,500 in 2023 and 2024. Utility Bill Support. Up to $150,000 for one-time grants to households earning no more than 40% of Edmonds Median Income in amounts up to $1,000 for up to 150 households to help defray expenses derived from outstanding City of Edmonds utilities bills. Housing Repair. Up to $1,000,000 for one-time grants to households earning no more than 40% of Edmonds Median Income for housing repair, especially focused on energy -saving measures such as roof repair, window replacement, HVAC repair/replacement, etc. Up to 200 grants at up to $5,000 each. - Account "C" shall be the `Edmonds Rescue Plan Business Support" account into which $1,125,000 from the ARPA funds shall be allocated to reimburse those City expenditures incurred through administration of the following programs, in compliance with the ARPA eligibility criteria: General Business Support. Up to $200,000 in installments of $50,000 per year in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 for general support of Edmonds small businesses, business districts and the overall business community. This includes such programs as the Edmonds Business Booster website and its programs and promotion; promotion of business districts outside Downtown through advertising, wayfinding, signage; business -support or promotional events, etc. Tourism Support. Up to $300,000 in installments of $75,000 per year in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 for support of tourism promotion. This includes enhanced local and regional advertising, support of events and special promotions, investment in facilities and/or equipment, etc. • Small Business Support. Up to $625,000 for direct grants to small businesses most affected by the COVID-19-related economic recession. Grants will take the form of individual financial support grants (in the form of loans that are forgivable after four months of performance), totaling up to 50 at $10,000 each in 2021, with up to 25 grants of up to $5,000 each available in 2022. Eligibility criteria for these grants will include: • Small businesses in Edmonds with zero to 30 employees. ✓ Businesses must demonstrate at least a 50% loss in revenue by the end of 2020 compared to the pre -pandemic 2019 revenues. ✓ Businesses must not have received more than $5,000 in other grants, tax credits or other financial assistance. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 9 ✓ Businesses must be located outside Downtown Edmonds ("Downtown Edmonds" being defined as any location west of 9th Avenue between Caspers Street and Pine Street). ✓ Particular consideration will be given to businesses owned by people of color, women, veterans, and other minorities - Account "D" shall be the "Edmonds Rescue Plan Nonprofit Organization Support" account into which $500,000 from the ARPA funds shall be allocated to assist Edmonds nonprofit organizations that have suffered substantial financial losses due to prolonged closures, cut -backs, loss of business, etc. A general call for requests will be issued, with requests reviewed competitively and awards based on relative need, likelihood to help an organization survive, and other sources of funds available. Small grants of up to $20,000 and totaling no more than $100,000 shall be approvable by the Mayor. Large grants of any amount over $20,000 for a total of up to $400,000 shall be approvable by the City Council. - Account "E" shall be the "Edmonds Rescue Plan Job Retraining Program" account into which $600,000 from the ARPA funds shall be allocated to provide financial aid to working adults who seek skills training, certifications, completion of degrees or other skills enhancement at local community colleges serving Edmonds residents in the form of grants of up to $5000 per year per student to cover tuition, fees, supplies and life expenses during the period of study. Administration of this program will be conducted by the college or colleges selected under the contractual oversight of the City. The Mayor shall be authorized to enter into the corresponding contract(s) with participating colleges serving Edmonds residents. - Account "F" shall be the "Edmonds Rescue Plan City Green Infrastructure" account in which up to $4,768,099 from the ARPA funds shall be allocated to reimburse City capital expenditures through 2026 associated with green infrastructure projects, meeting ARPA guidelines, such as: ✓ Edmonds Marsh Water Quality and Flood Control. Retention and treatment of surface stormwater runoff into the Edmonds Marsh to enhance the water quality of the Marsh, as well as other associated projects. Preliminary projected cost - approximately $750,000. ✓ Lower Perrinville Creek Realignment. Retention and treatment of surface stormwater runoff in the Perrinville Creek drainage basin, intended to reduce stormwater surge flows and enhance the quality of stormwater reaching Puget Sound. Preliminary projected cost - $3,500,000. ✓ Green Streets and Rain Gardens. Enhance existing streets throughout Edmonds by adding features that retain and/or treat stormwater runoff to reduce stormwater surges and contaminants that reach Puget Sound. Similarly, rain gardens in association with streets, parks and other public facilities may be established for these same purposes. Preliminary projected cost - $1,000,000. - All infrastructure projects and their associated budgets shall be presented to City Council for review and approval. ■ Section 5 sets out the timeframe for use of the ARPA funds - from 3/31/21 till 12/31/26, with explanation of "incurred" and "obligated" expenses. ■ Section 6 requires any organization assisting the City in providing emergency aid to provide a quarterly written report, as well as requiring that the Administration provide quarterly reports to the City Council. ■ Section 7 is the "Severability" clause ■ Section 8 provides the effective date of the Ordinance as FIVE days after passage and publication. Next Steps Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 10 o Provide Council direction this evening o Return on 7/20/21 for approval Councilmember Distelhorst recalled the income eligibility in last year's CARES funding was up to 60% of AMI and that was about 4,000 households. He asked if the number of households up to 40% of area median income (AMI) had been estimated and whether it was Edmonds median income or AML Mr. Doherty answered Edmonds median income can be calculated via various sources; that calculation was also done last year and provided to the partner organizations. There are approximately 2,460 households in the 40% or less category. He referred to a memorandum sent to Council that recapped the work done last year on the CARES Fund; three agencies were engaged to administer household grants: Homage offered grants to households with an average AMI of 24%, Washington Kids in Transition offered grants to households with an average AMI in the 30-40% and Wellspring offered grants to households with the following breakdown of AMI: 50% to under 30% AMI, 20% to 30-40% AMI, 15% to 40-50% AMI. The lion's share of those helped were in the 20%, 30% and low 40% which is why 40% was chosen. There is enough demand from 40% and under so it may be misleading to say the City would be helping people with AMI up to 60% when that level is not reached. Councilmember Distelhorst referred to requests from the Edmonds Waterfront Center and the Edmonds Public Facilities District, assuming they would be eligible under Account D. Mr. Doherty answered yes, explaining there will be a call for requests. The City has had agencies indicate interest, but if the Council approves this proposal, there would be a call for requests from all nonprofits in the City who qualify so they can be competitively reviewed together. Councilmember Distelhorst asked if Account E, job retraining program, had an income eligibility component. Mr. Doherty answered he has draft concept proposals from Edmonds College and Shoreline Community College indicating interest and the types of programs they would focus on to assist Edmonds residents. They did not specifically mention income as a percentage; their normal way of providing financial aid takes a lot of things into consideration. For example, someone making 80% of median income that is a household of 5 with greater expenses and a working adult to get certifications to become a higher wage earning versus a single person seeking that same education, the percentage of median income may be lower. Councilmember Buckshnis expressed concern with the Council making a recommendation tonight since the meeting is just now being broadcast on TV and there are lot of concerns regarding how this is being handled. She suggested having a more thorough discussion next week when the meeting is broadcast on TV. She requested Mr. Doherty provide the Council his PowerPoint presentation as some changes had been made to the ordinance. Councilmember Buckshnis asked how the amounts were determined for the different accounts, noting she had not had a chance to read the 150 page document. Mr. Doherty commented she would not find any guidance regarding the amounts in the 151 pages. The ARPA states several times that cities will be given great discretion in the administration of the ARPA money, meeting the general overall guidelines. With regard to how much to give to households versus businesses versus infrastructure, etc., cities are given a great deal of latitude as long as it is documented that it addresses need. Staff looked at what was done last year and fashioned similar programs and new programs where needed. For example in the household grants, it was recognized that $1000 or $1500 was welcome help but was not enough money for a family making 25% of AMI to make a huge a difference. He recognized $2500 would not be life changing but it was a higher amount that would provide more help. As the program is rolled out over four years, hopefully people will get their feet under them as the economy recovers. The intent was to increase the amount to $2500 and lower the income level to address those in most need and to have a population small enough to spread the money around. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 11 Mr. Doherty explained last year the City served just under 400 households which is where the 400 households number came from. Last year's program was pretty robust with three agencies working on the City's behalf and even so, only 400 households were served. The need is still there, possibly tempered somewhat as the economy starts to recover, so the intent was to serve 400 households. Some of the other numbers such as the three business programs and the tourism support, consideration was given to what would make a difference but not taking too much away from the overall program. For example, the general support, $50,000/year, tourism support $75,000/year; there is no science behind those numbers but they are large enough amounts to make a difference. With regard to grants, Mr. Doherty explained last year the grants were up to $10,000 but most grants were $8,000. In looking at the number of grants given out last year and slightly tighter criteria this year, the proposal for 50 at $10,000 each in 2021 and up to 25 of up to $5,000 each in 2002 was probably in the right ballpark. More grants were provided last year, but they were smaller and it was in the middle of the pandemic when some businesses weren't open. The tighter criteria such as not having received more than $5,000 in other grants will eliminate a lot of businesses as several received a lot of business support; there is also some incredible tax support this year for businesses that can take advantage of tax credits. He reiterated there was no science but feeling out the conditions to determine what seems like an amount that would make a difference to businesses. With regard to non-profit organization support, the amount of $500,000 was selected because it seemed like an amount that could make a difference. With regard to the job retraining program, Mr. Doherty explained he talked with the Edmonds College Foundation said they tend to give $5,000 or $10,000 which helped him craft that program. Councilmember Buckshnis said she would like to change some of the dollar amounts, for example some of the green infrastructure are pet projects that could be funded via other programs. There is plenty of money available for rain gardens and for the marsh. She personally would like to see the money allocated to businesses or individuals where it could make a difference. She asked if the amounts were set in stone or could Council change the amounts next week after they had more time to study and vet the proposal. Mr. Doherty answered the Council has to approve this ordinance. Councilmember Buckshnis relayed her understanding that some research was done, but it wasn't rocket science. Mr. Doherty explained with regard to green infrastructure, the ARPA focuses on water, stormwater and broadband. The City does not really have a broadband infrastructure problem other than some people may not be able to afford access which is why the household grants expressly include access to internet, but in other areas of the country there may be rural areas that do not have access. Like many cities, Edmonds has water and stormwater issues, primarily stormwater as bodies of water are receiving dirty water. These high level description of projects are informed by early budget estimates, $750,000 for marsh water quality, $3.5M for Perrinville and $1M for rain gardens, and like all infrastructure projects, are subject to Council approval. Councilmember Buckshnis assumed those projects were in the CIP/CFP. She observed 42% of the money is allocated to green infrastructure which she felt was too much, especially when there are grants available for green infrastructure. Councilmember K. Johnson referred to Section 4.C, Small Business Support, paragraph d states businesses must be located outside downtown Edmonds. She was surprised by this, recalling with the previous business support grants, 73 were outside the Bowl, 76 were inside the Bowl for total of 149 grants. She asked if that was an error or was the proposal to only help businesses outside downtown. Mr. Doherty answered it was not an error, that was the proposal. The downtown business community is the most well organized and the most informed. Downtown organizations routinely share information with existing email lists, data bases and memberships such as DEMA and Ed! efficiently and effectively. Any time there is a new grant or tax opportunity, there are email blasts to the downtown business community. His impression was a higher percentage of businesses downtown were provided valuable information to help them recover compared with businesses elsewhere in the City. With a lower number of grants available than last year, it made the Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 12 most sense in compliance with the ARPA guidance to focus on the most distressed communities, areas of town that are less organized (outside downtown), do not have a merchants group, Chamber or BID to provide information, and where there may be cultural and linguistic barriers. He summarized that was a purposeful criterion. Councilmember K. Johnson asked if a business would not be eligible if they previously received a $5,000 grant. Mr. Doherty agreed that was that is criterion c. Councilmember K. Johnson commented it was possible a business located in downtown Edmonds needed a grant. She suggested stating that consideration will be given to businesses located outside downtown; she did not want to absolutely exclude a downtown businesses in case they did not get the information or did not previously qualify for a grant. Mr. Doherty relayed the ARPA guidance is to focus on the most distressed communities which is the reason for this criterion. He agreed there may be downtown businesses that did not receive a grant, but with the organizations downtown, they had a higher chance of access. Councilmember K. Johnson recalled the presentation stated there were four areas of the enabling legislation; she referred to the area that states, provide premium pay grade to essential workers or provide grants to employers or essential workers during the COVID-19 emergency and asked for a response to that direction. Mr. Doherty said it was not proposed that City employees again be offered premium pay; it was important during the immediate response to the pandemic when most employees were at home that the few people who had to come into the office were offered that. The proposal does not include employers in the City such as grocery stores or medical providing additional premium pay. There have been wage increases for some of those employees. Councilmember K. Johnson supported allocating funds to lower Perrinville Creek as it is very needed and there are no other funding sources for that project. Councilmember Olson proposed for Council consideration adding to the exemption of downtown businesses, "except those who have not benefitted from the streatery ordinance or takeout parking." The retailers in that zone potentially could show need in the other categories and she was concerned about losing retail in the downtown core as a result of COVID and the actions that have been taken to remedy or help other businesses out of COVID. She said the impression of privilege for that area, thrown as a blanket on all business categories, does not address some of the exceptions. She knew of a couple restaurants who have a state highway going by their business instead of a City street which allowed streateries and takeout parking. Even though they are outside the most disadvantaged category and located in the downtown core, they did not receive the advantages that were made available to others businesses downtown. Mr. Doherty said Councilmember Olson raised good points, but with the amount of money available and a smaller number of grants, the proposal was to focus on distressed communities as stated in the policy guidance in the ARPA. Councilmember Olson referred to Account D regarding nonprofits, expressing her appreciation for the wording about looking at other available funding sources. Highly used and extremely beneficial and needed things like the food bank would be at the top of list, but if they have been well supported by the community and others haven't, she was definitely interested in considering that component. She asked whether the PFD would be considered nonprofit based on the legislation, recalling they get into difficulty sometimes because they are a hybrid entity with a governmental component. Mr. Doherty answered the intent is to be broad with that term; there is nothing in the ARPA guidelines that defines nonprofit. Councilmember Olson commented another nonprofit entity that the Council could consider including would be the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Doherty answered the Chamber is for sure a non-profit. Councilmember Olson referred to Account E, funding for college, and asked whether trades or coding certificates needed to be expressly stated in addition to degree programs. Those have a lot of value and Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 13 often people interested in retraining will benefit from that. Mr. Doherty answered the language in the ordinance is intended to provide for that, skills training, certifications, completion of degrees. He clarified the intent was not to fund someone starting a 4-year degree program; many working adults get a job in the middle of their university career and abandon school and then during the pandemic lost their job, hours or earning potential and want to finish their degree. The skills training would be manufacturing such as aerospace resource training offered in Snohomish County, automotive training that Shoreline offers, etc. Additionally, someone may have most of degree, and they may want to complete it to enhance their employability. The way that section is written allows for all the possibilities. The initial discussions he had with Edmonds and Shoreline indicated they are particularly interested in skills -related, shorter term programs. Councilmember Olson referred to the complex financial aid formula that schools use and suggested something tangible be included in the ordinance regarding how those funds as dispersed to avoid inadvertently awarding funds to someone who is not earning a great deal but, for example, has a lot of money in the bank. It is important that government not give money in that type of situation because when it happens, it is embarrassing and disrespectful to taxpayers. Mr. Doherty said the colleges do the actual triage, but language could be added to the ordinance, "provide financial aid to working adults with demonstrated financial need who are seeking..." Council President Paine commented this is very comprehensive and interesting. She thanked Councilmember Distelhorst for talking about grants available to families with 40% Edmonds median income. She asked what the Edmonds median income is. Mr. Doherty answered it is mid-$30,000. Council President Paine referred to workforce development and retraining programs and asked whether Edmonds and Shoreline have green development programs like building solar panels, rain gardens and green development, programs aimed at the future. She was aware Edmonds College has a horticultural center which would be helpful in green development. She relayed the University of Alberta closed their school for oil and gas engineering due to changing demand. She wanted to ensure the schools provide programs for future facing green infrastructure. Mr. Doherty responded in the early information the colleges provided illustrating their interest, Shoreline mentioned their biomanufacturing program and their automotive program which has partnerships with Tesla, Toyota, Honda and General Motors for the new generations of cars. For example, students obtaining a Tesla certificate are guaranteed a job with Tesla. Edmonds College was interested in focusing on aerospace training and research center in Snohomish County and their advance manufacturing skill center, jobs with the highest earning potential. Council President Paine commented apprenticeships are funded by the labor councils which is another great resource but does not need to be supported by ARPA funds. Council President Paine referred to green infrastructure, funds for lower Perrinville Creek realignment, Edmonds Marsh water quality and flood control, expressing her appreciation for allocating funds across two tranches. She asked about the vision for green streets and rain gardens, commenting on uncontrolled water running down longer downhill streets during extreme rainstorms. Mr. Williams commented that is an area where grant money is occasionally available, the City usually gets about $250,000 year from the State for Complete Streets which can include some elements of green infrastructure. Not a lot of street projects fully incorporate good stormwater management practices such as infiltrating rain gardens on public or private property. The amount included was a plug number to get started; a good target area would be the Perrinville Basin. There are identified projects in the CIP for the Perrinville Basin that could be pursued for greener stormwater management which would reduce some of the flashy flows and assist with the solution in lower Perrinville Creek. He summarized that is an area that hasn't been addressed before and would definitely qualify for ARPA funds. Council President Paine said she has seen tremendous results with modified road edges that allow flows into rain gardens. She referred to a location above Carkeek park where a scientist for the park system said Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 14 those reduced barriers improved the water quality in the salmon bearing stream. She would like to see that happen in Edmonds in areas where it makes sense. She appreciated the thoughtfulness put into this package, and was most excited about including continuing education and funding for green infrastructure. Councilmember Buckshnis reiterated her full support for $3.5M for Perrinville Creek restoration. However, she believed citizens, business and families needed the extra $1.75M that was allocated to green infrastructure and recommended it be divert into other programs. She pointed out Anthony's is closing because they do not have enough staff; businesses and families are suffering. She preferred to concentrate on one mega project, Perrinville Creek and urged the Council to distribute the other $1.75M into other important and needed programs. Snohomish County Futures Conservation District does a lot of rain gardens and has done some in the Seaview area. She preferred to concentrate funding on human aspects. Mr. Doherty recognized there are definitely significant places in the City where untreated water and surges enter Puget Sound, obviously Perrinville Creek, but also untreated and unretained water enters Edmonds Marsh. In addition to other things, ARPA encourages focus on infrastructure; the intent of the green infrastructure proposal is to make inroads into improving water quality and storm surges into Puget Sound. Mr. Doherty pointed out the ARPA is a nearly six year project, the funds have to be encumbered by 2024, but there is a long timeframe to spend the funds. There will be opportunity to revisit these early decisions as needs arise. The Administration's position is to start out as proposed, focusing substantially on infrastructure but recognize that needs may change. To those who have asked why there aren't household grants over the four years; he explained it is unknown what will happen with the continuing COVID pandemic, the Delta variant, the effectiveness of vaccines, etc. It is hoped there will not be a surge in cases requiring lockdowns, etc., but that cannot be counted on. He recognized it will be necessary to take stock every year and possibly tweak the numbers. The programs need to get started; for example, the job retraining, the colleges need to be informed so they can advertise the availability of financial aid starting in September. Councilmember K. Johnson recalled last year's housing and supplementary relief programs the City partnered on with Homage, Washington Kids in Transition and Wellspring and asked how the various grant programs using ARPA funds would be administered. Mr. Doherty answered similar to the nonprofits, a request for proposals will be issued for agencies to provide assistance. The same agencies may respond and/or there may be other agencies interested this year. He envisioned there would be 2-3 agencies assisting with the distribution of funds. Each of the organizations that assisted the City last year had an area of expertise and/or a population they serve more efficiently. For example, Homage focused on households with seniors, Washington Kids in Transition focused on school -age children, and Wellspring covered more generally but were the larger organization for the whole program, set up the website and web portal, etc. Similar to last year, organizations will be selected that are complimentary to each other and whose services do not overlap. Councilmember K. Johnson commented Homage specializes in home repairs for seniors so that may be a good resource for the home repair program. Mr. Doherty commented the Council has given direction tonight. He will return with changes to the ordinance such as demonstrated financial need for students, changes to the ordinance that were outlined in the presentation, and answers to questions. He suggested continuing the discussion next week and possibly approving the ordinance. Councilmember Buckshnis asked if the ordinance could be staggered such as was done with the tree code to approve some of the dollar amounts that need to be done right away and then give the Council and public a week or so to approve the others. City Attorney Jeff Taraday answered he did not see any reason why not. The Council could also approve the ordinance in its entirety and amend it later if necessary. He said just because the Council approves these allocations, that does not mean the money is spent and amendment cannot be made in the future if the Council perceives that needs have shifted. Councilmember Buckshnis Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 15 said that has been done in past and she was not in favor of how it transpired. She has received a number of emails and texts that no one heard Mr. Doherty's presentation so she hoped he would repeat it at the next Council meeting. Mr. Doherty offered to provide an abridged presentation next week. With regard to staggering the ordinance, Mr. Doherty said because there are six programs with components of each, it would be difficult to approve portions because each one affects the total. He recommended the approximately ten moving parts of the program be viewed together. Councilmember Buckshnis reiterated her concerned with allocating 42% for green infrastructure. She recognized the marsh has had poor water quality for years, but she preferred to concentrate on people. 11. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Buckshnis reported she is on vacation. She encouraged the public to continue wearing masks and to enjoy the nice weather and said hooray for weddings. Councilmember Distelhorst thanked Mayor Nelson and all the participants at last night's Anti -Hate Town Hall including Student Representative Roberts and Mr. Doherty. It was uplifting to see residents coming out to support anti -racism work in the City. He noted COVID cases are on the rise and urged people to get vaccinated, wear masks in public spaces especially indoors and to take care of each other to avoid going down that road again. Councilmember K. Johnson wished everyone a good evening, noting the weather has been beautiful whether you are on vacation or not. Councilmember Olson said she was also on vacation out of town and was sorry to have missed the Anti - Hate Town Hall. She encouraged the public to enjoy the beautiful summer safely, commenting they have earned fun and recreation. For those who are in town, she invited them to attend the Primary Election Candidate Debate at the Edmonds Center for the Arts on Wednesday, July 14t' from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. It will also be live streamed on YouTube, the link will be available on My Edmonds News. She thanked My Edmonds News and sponsors Edmonds College, Office Tech, and James Russell CPA for funding this opportunity to become better informed voters. The primary election is a two weeks away on August 3ra Council President Paine gave kudos to the City for the Uptown Market which was a lot of fun with great music and she purchased flowers for a party and snacks. She pointed out the PROS Plan survey is available now and it is important to get everyone's input. The PROS Plan will be used to shape the City's future and prioritize projects for the next 5-10 years. She thanked the City and Director Feser for getting the PROS out to the public for input. She thanked the Council and City staff for their hard work on Civic Field and was glad the contracts had been approved. The financial details will need to be worked out at a future meeting. Council President Paine agreed with Councilmember L. Johnson's comments about having better access to parks across all of Edmonds, pointing out there are no schools in the Lake Ballinger neighborhood for kids to play so they really have park deficits. There are many areas of Edmonds with park deficits and the City needs to do better for the community, residents and visitors to ensure everyone is served. Lake Ballinger is a lovely little lake and deserves a little more attention. She hoped the City would have the support of all its community partners and make all the fun that is available in the downtown Bowl area available to everyone; for example she would love to have a satellite p6tanque court on the east side of Edmonds, and the Rotary who has done so much to ensure parks are accessible to people of all abilities and ages. Council President Paine advised Councilmember L. Johnson left the meeting due to her cold. Student Rep Roberts said he enjoyed seeing many people at the Uptown Market last week and at the Anti - Racism Town Hall. Both were critical events that he hoped would continue. He thanked Mayor Nelson and Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 16 City staff and the participants. He urged the public to use proper precautions while in public, wear masks when needed, enjoy the marvelous weather, and wear sunscreen. 12. MAYOR'S COMMENTS Mayor Nelson gave a special shoutout to Mr. Doherty for making his idea, the Uptown Market, a reality; the market worked out well and there was a great turnout. Another Uptown Market is scheduled on August 121 from 4 to 9 p.m. He hoped to have more vendors and more food as the food ran out. He encouraged the public to be safe and get vaccinated as the rate of COVID cases have increased to 80/100,000. 13. ADJOURN With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 8:47 p.m. MIG EL NELSON, MAYOR CO PA EY, CITY ERK Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 17 Public Comment for 7/13/21 Council Meeting: From: Ken Reidy Sent: Tuesday, July 13, 2021 7:11 AM To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>; Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov> Cc: Nelson, Michael <Michael.Nelson@edmondswa.gov>; Council <Council@edmondswa.gov>; Judge, Maureen <Maureen.Judge@edmondswa.gov> Subject: Public Comments for the July 13, 2021 City Council Meeting Has not City Council already established the official position of the City of Edmonds for Civic Park? Has not City Council established that position to the point that the 2021 Budget included an expenditure budget of $6,030,315 for 2021? The 2021 Approved Budget represents that Construction is BUDGETED to begin in second quarter 2021. Do the actions of Councilmembers Adrienne Fraley Monillas and Laura Johnson casting doubt on this project show a lack of respect for an extremely complex, lengthy and detailed process? On November 3, 2016, Councilmember Adrienne Fraley-Monillas signed a letter that stated: "It is unfortunate that in the current climate of partisan politics that your office had to be part of the lack of respect for this extremely complex, lengthy, and detailed process." The letter was to the Director of the WA State Department of Ecology. I sensed a somewhat similar lack of respect for an extremely complex, lengthy, and detailed process during last week's Council meeting. Last week's agenda included a staff presentation to request Council consideration of approval of the Civic Center Playfield construction contracts at a future City Council meeting. The agenda item was not to discuss how this project would affect the purchase of other properties. Wasn't that considered long ago? When Civic Field was acquired, the related Meeting Minutes included: The acquisition of Civic Field is contained in the Comprehensive Plan, the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan and in the recently adopted Strategic Plan. It has been present in the PROS Plan for the past 25 years and has been a high priority for the City for a long time. In addition to support in all the planning elements of the City, when the PROS Plan was updated recently, all the public comment and the random sample telephone survey identified the acquisition of Civic Field as a top priority. it had been present in the PROS Plan for 25 years and had been a high priority for the City for a long time. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 18 Councilmember Fraley-Monillas also chose to point out that past votes on this project were not unanimous. Why would that matter? Did any of City Council's votes to move forward with construction of Civic Park require a unanimous vote? Decision Package 82 for the 2021 Approved Budget stated the following Justification for the budgeted funds for Civic Park construction: This is a multi -year design, land acquisition, fund development and construction project that is a very high priority in the PROS plan. With $3.47M in grant funding to support the effort. The Master Plan process was robust with extensive community input. The design is complete, permits are approved and the project is ready to enter the construction phase. From: Gib Mastri Sent: Monday, July 12, 2021 1:53 PM To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov> Subject: Public Park Use Hello, my name is Gib Mastri. I reside at 620 Glen St, #302, Edmonds. Recently, my fiancee and I sought to obtain the new public wedding circle next to the Waterfront Center for a late September ceremony. To our dismay, we discovered that the Waterfront Center has been allowed to reserve the circle every weekend through September and that the only way for us to reserve it is to rent a room from them, because they will not sublet the circle otherwise. The reason given for not subletting is because "Someone renting a room may want to use the circle". Not, "will", just, "may". In the Center's view it seems, on weekends the wedding circle and their rooms are conjoined spaces, not separate, and one cannot be had without the other. We've inquired, and the Center has not earmarked the circle for use on our desired date and time, yet we still can't reserve it unless we pay hundreds of dollars for a room rental we don't need or want. If we just show up to use this publicly owned park, we run the risk of being evicted from it because the Center holds it hostage. This seems an awfully unfair and inequitable arrangement for the citizens of this community. We are not trying to reserve the circle for an entire day, just an hour or so; and yet, we are unable to do so because the Center will not allow it. We are happy to pay the $75 fee to the Center or the city to reserve the circle; but we are unwilling to pay an additional $800 to the Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 19 Center for a room, just to use the circle. We are not opposed to thumbing our noses at the Center and using the circle anyway; but we don't want to have our special moment ruined by a Center staff member running us off because the Center has it reserved, "just in case". I have contacted the Parks and Rec Department about this matter, but they are unable to intervene or help us secure this public park due to the City's agreement with the Waterfront Center. Again, where is the fairness and equity in this arrangement, in which the Center is allowed to prevent the use of a public park, every weekend, on the off chance that someone renting a room may want to use it. I ask the City Council to reconsider and amend the agreement with the Waterfront Center in management of this public space. Please make the wedding circle a park that is accessible to all citizens, for a reasonable fee or otherwise, without the necessity of also having to rent room space from the adjacent Center. From: Darleen Atik Sent: Wednesday, July 7, 2021 3:26 PM To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov> Subject: Civic Field Good afternoon Council Members, I watched last night's discussion regarding Civic Field with interest. I am writing this time to encourage all Council members to vote for funding Civic Field. After four years of considerable public input it's time to put the pedal to metal, move forward, and fund this park! As long as I have lived in Edmonds what I have recall is the city desired to purchase this property from the school district to BECOME a park. Let's get it done. I appreciated Council member Buckshnis' comment regarding finding funding available for the added features with bonds or other options. Council member Olson suggested talking with RE[ regarding some possible funding toward the climbing wall. Why not ask REI? If memory serves me correctly at one time Carrie Hite had suggested putting together a list of items to go in the park such as benches, trees, shrubs, etc., allowing donations from the public for those assigned items. Why not? All of that is thinking outside the box as far as I'm concerned. Regarding the add-ons my preference for including are in this order: 1. rubber track surface 2. water feature 3 tree grates 4. scramble wall Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 20 I earnestly encourage all of you to bring the debate to a conclusion by voting yes and award the contract to A-1 Landscaping and Construction. I want to look forward to a ribbon cutting ceremony upon its completion. Respectfully submitted, Darleen Atik Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes July 13, 2021 Page 21