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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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■ 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
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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.
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✓ 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
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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
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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