04/02/2002 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
April 2, 2002
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The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Gary Haakenson in the
Council Chambers, 250 5"' Avenue North, Edmonds, followed by the flag salute.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Gary Haakenson, Mayor
Dave Earling, Council President
Jeff Wilson, Councilmember
Michael Plunkett, Councilmember
Lora Petso, Councilmember
Dave Orvis, Councilmember
Richard Marin, Councilmember
Deanna Dawson, Councilmember
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
STAFF PRESENT
David Stern, Chief of Police
Duane Bowman, Development Serv.
Stephen Clifton, Community Services Director
Jim Larson, Assistant Admin. Serv. Director
Darrell Smith, Traffic Engineer
Don Fiene, Assistant City Engineer
Scott Snyder, City Attorney
Sandy Chase, City Clerk
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst,
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER WILSON, FOR
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA AS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Council President Earling requested Item E be removed from the Consent Agenda.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, FOR
APPROVAL OF THE REMAINDER OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows:
(A) ROLL CALL
Approve
3/26/02 (B) APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF MARCH 26, 2002
Minutes
Approve (C) APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #54483 THROUGH #54682 FOR THE WEEK OF
Claim MARCH 25, 2002, IN THE AMOUNT OF $206,032.39
becks
Operation (D) AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN CONTRACT WITH WESTGATE
Homeland CHAPEL FOR "OPERATION HOMELAND" TEEN EVENT
Teen Event
Item E: Proclamation in Honor of Days of Remembrance for the Victims of the Holocaust, April 7 -14, 2002
Proclamation
Remember- Council President Earling explained he requested this item be removed from the Consent genda to
ing Victims
fthe highlight it. He pointed out it was appropriate to reflect on the Holocaust, particularly in view of the
Holocaust difficult times the country is experiencing and events occurring in the Middle East.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 2, 2002
Page I
COUNCIL PRESIDENT EARLING MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MARIN,
FOR APPROVAL OF ITEM E. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda item
approved is as follows:
(E) PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF DAYS OF REMEMBRANCE FOR THE VICTIMS OF
THE HOLOCAUST, APRIL 7 —14, 2002
3. PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH WEEK, APRIL 1 — 7, 2002
Proclamation
in Honor of
Public Health Councilmember Marin explained he serves as the Council's representative on the Snohomish County
Week Health District Board. He noted one of the statistics reviewed at a recent Board meeting was that the
Health District has reached a benchmark of 90% of women in their first trimester receiving prenatal care.
He asked a health officer what he attributed this to and the answer was federal funding made it possible.
Councilmember Marin referred to Community Health Manager Carol Standley, Public Health Nurse
Deborah Riley, and Outreach Worker Vicki Tenney, noting they are what makes it possible.
Councilmember Marin read the proclamation in honor of Public Health Week, April 1-7, 2002 and
presented it to Ms. Standley.
At the request of Councilmember Marin, Ms. Standley shared a card from one of Public Health Nurse
Riley's clients, expressing her thanks for helping her be the best mom. Outreach Worker Vicki Tenney
shared a story of a client who had several children removed from her care immediately following birth
due to drug and alcohol abuse. As a result of alcohol treatment, this individual was eventually able to
parent a child and become a contributing member of the community.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT EARLING, TO
ADOPT THE PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF PUBLIC HEALTH WEEK, APRIL 1 - 7, 2002.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Edmonds 4. PUBLIC HEARING ON EDMONDS CROSSING — PINE STREET FERRY TRAFFIC STUDY
Crossing —
Pine street Traffic Engineer Darrell Smith reviewed the history of the project including preliminary
Ferry Traffic
Study recommendations presented at the August 23, 2001 public open house: (1) improve signing plan that will
direct westbound ferry traffic south of SR104 and then west to the ferry terminal; (2) revise signing plan
to remove ferry route from Pine Street; (3) full gate closure during peak ferry periods - Alternative 3a;
and (4) long term monitoring for community impact.
As a result of the public open house, modifications were made and the following additional
recommendations were presented at the first public hearing held on October 16, 2001: use Walnut Street
between 3rd and 9`h for routing peak period traffic, consider accelerating improvements at 238th Street,
and continue with plans to construct a traffic signal at Pine Street/SR 104 in conjunction with the
Edmonds Crossing Project.
On January 15, 2002, a continued public hearing was held and, as a result of concern expressed with the
use of Walnut Street, several other alternatives were considered including the use of Dayton Street to
redirect traffic from 3rd to 9th to SR 104 during peak ferry periods. He noted peak ferry periods occurred
6-10 hours a week when ferry traffic backs up past Pine Street on SR 104, requiring the closure of Pine
Street due to vehicles cutting into line, road rage incidents, etc.
Mr. Smith reviewed public comments and concerns expressed throughout the study of this issue which
include: many residents think there is too much traffic downtown; some Pine Street residents would like
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April 2, 2002
Page 2
Pine Street closed; City of Woodway, north end residents and Fire Department do not support full
closure of Pine Street; public supported directing ferry traffic to SR 104; Ninth Avenue residents are
concerned about potential increases in traffic; and 238th Street residents are concerned with existing
traffic volumes. Mr. Smith explained the Fire Department did not support the full closure of Pine Street
due to reduced response time to Woodway and Edmonds residents on the north side of Pine Street.
As a result of comments received from the public, staff suggested several changes in the proposal in an
effort to strike a balance with the community. He noted the City was also evaluating the possibility of
pedestrian improvements at Walnut and Pine Street due to gaps in sidewalks along those corridors, the
possibility of a 4 -way stop at 8t" & Main, and mechanisms to improve pedestrian crossings across Dayton
and Main Street such as narrowing the roadway in some areas. He noted these improvements Were being
evaluated as part of the Transportation Element update. He encouraged the public to attend an open
house on Thursday, April 4 to discuss pedestrian improvements throughout the City as well as ways to
keep traffic on arterials and off residential streets.
Mr. Smith explained the following six alternatives were evaluated at the February 12 Community
Services/Development Services Council Committee meeting:
• Full gate closure during peak ferry periods with Dayton Street rerouting (staff's
recommendation)
• Permanently close Pine Street
• Close Pine Street for six months, remove Pine Street ferry signs, educate drivers and quietly
reopen Pine Street
• Close Pine Street for six months, monitor results, and report back to Council
• No change to existing condition
• Close Pine Street during peak ferry periods, improve signage on the exterior of the City but not
provide signage at 3`d to 9th (preferred alternative)
Mr. Smith explained the preferred alternative (Close Pine Street during peak ferry periods, improve
signage on the exterior of the City but not provide signage at 3rd to 9tt') would encourage traffic from the
north to use I-5 to SR 104. Recognizing residents to the north would continue to use Olympic View
Drive, the route along 9th /100th would be permanently signed to direct traffic to SR 104 to the ferry
terminal. He explained this would include flashing signs near 9th and Caspers directing traffics along 9th,
stating Pine Street was closed. Mr. Smith displayed a map illustrating the location of signs that state
"Pine Street Closed When Flashing". He acknowledged it may be confusing for vehicles that ignore the
signs and reach the area of 3`d Avenue. He noted monitoring would determine whether this creates any
significant problems.
Mr. Smith displayed a map illustrating the projected rerouting with peak period full gate closure and
percent increase/decrease in traffic volumes due to relocated vehicles, noting specifically there would be
a slight increase in traffic on Hwy. 99, 9th Avenue N, 760' Avenue W, and SR 104 due to redirecting
traffic to those areas. However, rerouting would result in 60-70 fewer vehicles per hour in the downtown
bowl area, 33 fewer vehicles per hour on the section of Pine Street from 9th Avenue to 3rd Avenue during
peak periods, and 160 fewer vehicles per hour on the section of Pine Street from 3rd Avenue to 5`h
Avenue during peak periods.
Mr. Smith presented the final Community Services/Development Services Committee recommendations:
• Improve signage on I-5, which will direct westbound ferry traffic south to SR 104 andI then west
to the ferry terminal. Remove Pine Street as a signed ferry route. Mr. Smith described
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April 2, 2002
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improvements currently being made by Washington State Department of Transportation
(WSDOT) to install a variable message sign at I-5/145`' and on SR 104 informing drivers of ferry
conditions.
• Full gate closure during peak ferry periods (Alternative 3a). Mr. Smith described the location of
the gate at the intersection of SR 104 & Pine Street, noting there would be signs at 3rd & Pine as
well as on SR 104 informing drivers of the closure.
• Perform long term monitoring for community impact (traffic counts at key intersections before
implementing any changes, followed by traffic counts at 6 -month intervals after implementing
changes and a report to the Council regarding the impact of the changes)
• Consider accelerating improvements on 238tb Street
• Continue with plans to construct a traffic signal at Pine Street & SR 104 in conjunction with
Edmonds Crossing project.
Mr. Smith summarized staff recommends approving the Pine Street Traffic Study recommendations,
direct staff to begin working with WSDOT and Lynnwood to improve signage to the ferry terminal
outside the community, and direct staff to begin design of the peak ferry period gate closure at Pine
Street and accompanying signage.
A brief recess was declared due to technical difficulties.
For Councilmember Orvis, Mr. Smith explained when the Edmonds Crossing was completed, the
intersection of Pine Street/SR 104 would be signalized with a double left turn from SR 104 northbound
into the ferry terminal. There likely would not be additional asphalt but there likely would be significant
pedestrian improvements linking Woodway, the ferry terminal, Edmonds and possibly City Park.
Councilmember Orvis asked whether ferry access would be allowed from Pine Street to Edmonds
Crossing. Mr. Smith answered no, under the current proposal there would be an island at the intersection
that would preclude traffic from turning into the ferry terminal from that direction. He noted the look of
SR 104 to the north also may change significantly due to eliminating the need for all that asphalt.
Councilmember Orvis noted renderings of the Edmonds Crossing project illustrated more than one ferry
slip. He asked whether Washington State Ferries (WSF) planned to operate more ferries from that
location. Mr. Smith agreed there was a strong likelihood that would occur. He explained WSF has 2'/z
ferry slips in Kingston (two loading docks and one for docking only) and had plans to add a third vessel
to the ferry run in approximately ten years. He noted it may be challenging to add a third vessel within
ten years due to funding limitations as a result of I-695 and the current economic climate.
For the audience, Councilmember Marin recalled the Community Services/Development Services
Committee reviewed several mock-ups of possible signage that would be used to direct drivers away
from the bowl area. Mr. Smith recalled consideration was given to two signs in that corridor, an advance
sign at Puget notifying drivers to use the left lane to access the ferry route and then a flashing sign stating
"Pine Street Closed" and directing traffic to 9"' Avenue. Councilmember Marin noted the sign was
changed from "When Yellow Lights Flashing, Use Alternate Route" to "When Yellow Lights Flashing,
Use Preferred Route" and pointing toward 9`i'. Councilmember Marin noted this demonstrated the
significant effort being made to redirect traffic and identify 9`h as the preferred route and the essential
route when the yellow lights were flashing.
Councilmember Dawson noted the Agenda Memo indicated there was no expenditure or appropriation.
Mr. Smith clarified there was currently no request for funding. He acknowledged there would be some
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April 2, 2002
Page 4
in-house engineering costs and construction funds in the future. He explained the Capital Improvement
Program included approximately $70,000 for this project. This would primarily fund the gate at Pine
Street & SR 104, noting Council approval would be sought before going to bid for the project. He noted
the $70,000 would also fund some of the signage with the exception of the flashing signs. He noted the
flashing signs would be linked via radio frequencies so that when the gate was lowered at Pine Street, the
flashing signs would be activated. He acknowledged there would be capital investment required in the
future to implement this project. He noted consideration also needed to be given to a traffic signal at 9th
& Caspers, regardless of this project, at a cost of $150,000 - $250,000.
Councilmember Dawson pointed out the Agenda Memo also indicated there was no budgeted amount for
this project but there was actually $70,000 budgeted. Mr. Smith agreed $70,000 was included in the CIP.
Councilmember Dawson asked the total cost of the signage, radio frequency linkage, gate, additional
signage, etc. Mr. Smith described plans to work with WSDOT to participate in funding.
Councilmember Dawson noted this was a problem on a State highway, leading to a State ferry dock. She
asked how much WSDOT had agreed to pay and how much the City would pay. Mr. Smith explained
WSDOT has not currently agreed to pay anything for this project. He recalled WSDOT offered to fund
this project approximately two years ago and the City declined their proposal and the funding. He
estimated it would cost $50,000 - $100,000 beyond the amount currently budgeted. He explained
Edmonds, as a city over 22,500, was responsible to address traffic issues on State highway with the
exception of limited access highways.
Councilmember Dawson recalled when the ferry terminal was sited, it was supposedly on a temporary
basis. Community Services Director Stephen Clifton responded Councilmember Dawson may be
referring to a Shoreline Permit approved 5-10 years ago for the addition of a second slip and an
agreement that this was temporary with a condition regarding renewal of the Shoreline Permit.
Councilmember Dawson stated at that time WSF indicated they would be moving the ferry terminal. Mr.
Clifton answered not necessarily; Edmonds Crossing was an alternative to the current ferry terminal
location. The approximate cost of the Edmonds Crossing project was $163 million; until the State or
Federal government provided funding to construct the project, the ferry terminal would likely Tremain in
its present location.
Councilmember Dawson questioned why efforts had not been made to get a funding commitment from
WSDOT to improve signage and why was the City moving forward without knowing what portion
WSDOT or Lynnwood would fund. Mr. Smith reiterated two years ago, WSDOT offered to fund the
project, which the City declined. Further, numerous "mega" projects have arisen in recent years such as
the Alaska viaduct, SR 405, capacity improvements to I-5, SR 509 corridor extension, etc. He
commented the State was seeking voter approval in November of an increase in the gas tax to provide
funding for transportation projects. He noted if the transportation measure passed, it included $2.2
million for the Edmonds Crossing project.
Councilmember Dawson requested clarification regarding the recommendation to consider accelerating
improvements on 238th. Mr. Smith explained those improvements were scheduled on the CiP for 5-7
years in the future. If the intent was to encourage drivers to use SR 104, those improvements should be
constructed in the next 2-3 years. He noted improvements to 238th would be less costly for WSDOT than
constructing a new off -ramp from Hwy. 99 to SR 104.
Councilmember Dawson inquired whether Council approval of the study and recommendations would
bind the Council to funding the improvements if there were no federal or state contribution. Mr. Smith
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April 2, 2002
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answered no, noting there were several projects currently on the CIP that required grants to proceed and
the same would be true for this project.
Councilmember Wilson referred to the map illustrating projected increase/decrease in traffic volumes
with the proposed rerouting and peak period full gate closure, noting the area on 9th between Caspers and
220'h would have a 10 vehicle per hour increase in traffic. Mr. Smith explained it was anticipated there
would be an increase of less than 1% per hour (10 vehicles) during peak hour periods, assuming Pine
Street was closed only during peak periods. He noted if Pine Street were closed permanently, the impact
would be an additional 10-15 vehicles per hour throughout the day in that area.
Councilmember Wilson observed with the proposed rerouting, the largest increase in volumes, 7% or 100
vehicle trips per hour, would occur on SR 104 between 100th and the ferry terminal. Mr. Smith agreed,
noting the increase would be less, 61 additional vehicles or less than 4%, in the area from Hwy. 99 to
100th.
Councilmember Wilson recalled from the level of service (LOS) analysis of all intersections, there was
no measurable change to LOS other than to 9th & Caspers. Mr. Smith agreed, explaining the existing
LOS at 9th & Caspers was F and resources needed to be dedicated to improving the intersection. He
noted although it was the City's responsibility for addressing traffic issues on State highways, the
WSDOT must approve signal permits on State routes. The WSDOT was usually not supportive of
signals on State routes; however, by implementing this plan, the WSDOT may be more interested in
installing a signal at this intersection.
For Councilmember Wilson, Mr. Smith identified intersections on 9th that were already reaching capacity
— 220th & 9th, Walnut & 9th, Main & 9th, and 9th and Caspers.
Councilmember Wilson requested Mr. Smith provide further details regarding the monitoring program.
Mr. Smith explained the intent was to provide baseline speed and volume counts on arterials and
collectors in the bowl area as well as arterials on the exterior. Speed and volume counts would also be
performed at 3-6 month intervals after the temporary gate closure system was implemented. Staff would
review accident data during that time period. Staff would solicit public comment regarding how the
system was working. Monitoring would also be conducted prior to construction of the Edmonds
Crossing project to determine impacts that project would have on the community.
Councilmember Wilson inquired whether the frequency of gate closure could be increased based on
monitoring data. Mr. Smith answered yes, noting the information would also assist with planning future
improvements.
Councilmember Wilson asked whether the roadways used to route traffic east of the City were all
collector and arterial streets. Mr. Smith answered yes; all southbound streets were either arterials or
principle arterials.
Councilmember Wilson clarified the reason the City declined DOT funding two years ago was because
there was no plan. Mr. Smith agreed, explaining DOT had only anecdotal data regarding vehicles cutting
in line, road rage, etc. at the intersection of Pine & SR 104 and their improvements focused primarily on
that intersection. The DOT did not have traffic data to share with the Council. He acknowledged the
DOT may have had good concepts but did not have sufficient information to allow the Council to judge
the merits of the project.
Council President Earling commented that although Edmonds Crossing seemed like a pipe dream, several
million dollars had been gathered for the project including $2.2 million in the statewide transportation
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April 2, 2002
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bill for Edmonds Crossing. He noted projects that connect major state highways would qualify for
funding from the regional plan. He recalled Congressman Inslee requested Edmonds complete an
application for a line item request in the 2003 budget and the new administration at WSF have indicated
this is a good project that they want to see happen. Council President Earling noted the City's current
administration also supports moving forward with the Edmonds Crossing project. He summarized there
was a great deal of collective interest in advancing this project and leveraging further federal funding.
Councilmember Plunkett pointed out the City had two budgets, a capital budget and an operating budget
and the funds Mr. Smith referred to were from the capital budget.
Councilmember Petso noted the preferred option was to close Pine Street during peak periods. She asked
whether that would allow sufficient flexibility to close the gate during more peak periods, for example,
close the gate for the summer. Mr. Smith answered that would be an option. He clarified his example of
a 6-10 hour per week closure was representational of the fall and winter; there were definitely more hours
of peak periods during summer months. He said if the monitoring indicated the temporary peak period
gate closure was not adequate, there would be the flexibility to lower the gate when necessary. He noted
the gate could be raised/lowered for emergency vehicle access.
Councilmember Petso inquired whether there would be the ability to lower the gate for two full years.
Mr. Smith answered yes, but that would need to be communicated to WSDOT.
Councilmember Petso recalled the WSDOT's proposal was installing a concrete cul-de-sac that would
result in a permanent closure of Pine. If the Council chose to permanently close Pine Street, she asked
whether it could be accomplished in a manner that was less permanent than cement so that it could be
reopened in the future if necessary. Mr. Smith answered yes, curbing could be poured on the asphalt
topped with a decorative finish. He noted there would be some cost to remove a permanent -type closure.
Councilmember Petso asked whether the gate could be installed and kept lowered for a year and then
removed if a determination was made that was not working. Mr. Smith answered yes.
Councilmember Orvis asked if the Council opted to close Pine Street, why would improvements be
needed rather than just installing a cement barrier? Mr. Smith answered he would want to do something
more aesthetically attractive and reasonable for the residents. He did not envision a concrete barrier in
the center of the street although that could be done on a temporary basis. Councilmember Orvis inquired
about the cost of a cement barrier. Mr. Smith advised they were approximately $20-30 per lineal foot.
Councilmember Wilson inquired about the distance between Dayton and 100''' where there would be no
vehicular or emergency access to SR 104, Woodway or Unocal if Pine Street were permanently closed.
Mayor Haakenson estimated it was approximately one mile. He noted the Fire Department already
provided a recommendation that Pine Street not be permanently closed. Mr. Smith commented another
option was knockdown bollards although this may create a safety concern for emergency vehicles
entering SR 104.
Mayor Haakenson opened the public participation portion of the public hearing. He noted the numerous
letters the Council has received during the time they have been deliberating this issue were included in
the Council packet. He read a portion of a letter submitted to the Council tonight from Chet and
Delores Curtis, 402 91h Avenue S, Edmonds, stating their belief that to resolve the entire situation, the
route should remain as it has been with the addition of a stop light at the intersection of Pine Street & SR
104 and prohibiting all right turns. The letter stated that the need for additional ferry holdings lanes and
Edmonds Crossing was a separate issue that needed urgent attention by WSDOT, BNSF, Community
Transit and the City. The letter pointed out ferry traffic would plague WSDOT and continuel to worsen
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April 2, 2002
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as growth continued. The letter favored the use of the Unocal site as a solution and not for it to be used
for a sewer treatment facility.
Scott Caftan, 736 Dayton Street, Edmonds, spoke in favor of the recommendation Mr. Smith made,
noting Mr. Smith has spent a considerable amount of time with residents on Dayton Street and the
community. He noted their initial concern was with Frances Anderson Center and the number of people
attending activities there. He concluded the proposed solution was a good one as it directed drivers to 9th
Avenue and kept traffic out of the downtown Edmonds bowl area.
Brad Hanson, 210 Pine, Edmonds, pointed out that nothing less than a physical closure of Pine Street
would curtail the use of Pine Street and 3rd Avenue. He noted the proposed solution was the most
expensive, reminding that in addition to startup costs, there would also be the cost of approximately
$32,000 per year for the next ten years to monitor the gate whereas closing Pine Street would be a one-
time cost. He noted the Fire Department's issues could be mitigated. He questioned why the Council did
not want to use Dayton or Walnut for peak traffic but it was okay to use 3rd and Pine Streets, residential
streets, for ferry traffic.
Ron Wambolt, 11701 Bella Coola Road, Woodway, acknowledged there was a serious problem at the
Pine Street/SR 104 intersection and was dismayed that the real solution, a traffic signal, was 10+ years in
the future. He noted the City likely could not wait 10+ years to install a signal because when the Unocal
property was developed with 188 condominiums, the sole access would be from Pine Street. He noted
there were no Edmonds residents on the other side of Pine Street, only the Unocal property. Referring to
problems he has witnessed at 5th & Pine when Pine Street was closed, he recommended this intersection
be made a 4 -way stop.
Roger Oliver, 10312 d S, Edmonds, said his observations over the past few years indicate the closure of
Pine Street was only needed 4% of the time, but desperately needed during that time. He favored
Alternative 3a. He provided a historical perspective, noting Edmonds got its first ferry in 1923 and the
immediate impact on the city was traffic backups. He questioned whether he would still be alive when
the Edmonds Crossing project was completed.
Joe Wermus, 752 Dayton Street, Edmonds, spoke in support of the proposal made by the Traffic
Engineer. He commended the City's sensitivity to the citizens' concerns regarding safety, traffic, and
existing problems with eastbound traffic.
Allen Clark, 806 Dayton Street, Edmonds, recalled a meeting last month where Councilmember Marin
and Mr. Smith discussed this same problem. At the conclusion of the meeting, when they were asked for
a summation of what would be presented to the Council, the primary items were two signs on 9t'' Avenue
west of Olympic View Drive and another sign on 9th approaching Caspers Street. However, tonight's
presentation indicates several thousands of dollars will be expended. He noted at the conclusion of the
meeting last month, the audience was left with the impression the signs would be erected within the next
few weeks after the proposal was presented to the Council. He expressed concern that the signs would
not be erected and the problems would continue. He suggested phasing the project, and begin by erecting
signs directing traffic onto 9th and to settle the Pine Street issue later.
Carol Hahn, 10312 d S, Edmonds, noted this proposal was the best compromise. She explained there
were 12 households impacted by this most directly, those west and south of 3rd and Pine Street. Four of
those households have been represented at public meetings saying they want Pine Street closed
permanently. Two of the four indicated to her they were not totally tickled with this proposal but that
they could live with it. She was not totally tickled with the proposal but could live with it as she felt total
closure was unnecessary because it was unneeded 95% of the time. She agreed with Mr. Clark that the
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April 2, 2002
Page 8
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signage should be erected first, noting this would solve a lot of the problem. She encouraged the Council
to vote in favor of this compromise.
Roger Hertrich, 1020 Puget Drive, Edmonds, commented partial closure of Pine Street at the
appropriate times was the best answer. He noted staff had done a fine job of creating good public and
staff rapport, demonstrated by the smaller crowd at tonight's meeting. He urged the Council to proceed
and not have any more meetings on this issue. He noted because so few vehicles would be impacted by
the closure, once the system was installed and the pre -warning signs erected, the problem would no
longer be noticeable.
Hearing no further comment, Mayor Haakenson closed the public participation portion of the public
hearing.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT EARLING, TO
EXTEND DISCUSION OF THIS ITEM FOR 10 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Mayor Haakenson remanded the matter to Council for action.
Councilmember Plunkett expressed his support for the proposal. He thanked Mr. Smith for handling this
positively, with great sensitivity and as a true professional. He referred to WSDOT's offer two years ago
to fund improvements, pointing out the reason the City declined WSDOT's offer was to allow for
adequate discussion. He commented there was not even a public hearing when WSDOT made their
proposal two years ago; WSDOT came to the Council "with a hammer in one hand and a bag of money in
the other" describing their proposal for Pine. He recalled the Council had questions about WSDOT's
proposal and wanted to seek public input, which WSDOT was not willing to allow. He acknowledged
that although the City declined WSDOT's funding, it gained an opportunity to develop a good, positive
compromise that involved all citizens.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, TO
ACCEPT THE STUDY, APPROVE THE RECOMMENDED ACTIONS:
(1) IMPROVE SIGNING PLAN, WHICH WILL DIRECT WESTBOUND FERRY TRAFFIC TO
SR 104 AND THEN WEST TO THE FERRY TERMINAL; THE SIGNAGE PLAN SHOULD
BE ACCOMPLISHED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE; WORK WITH THE WASHINGTON STATE
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (WSDOT) TO IMPROVE SIGNAGE ON 1-5 TO
DIRECT FERRY TRAFFIC TO SR 104; WORK WITH WSDOT AND LYNNWOOD TO
IMPROVE SIGNAGE ON HWY 99 AND 76TH AVENUE TO DIRECT FERRY TRAFFIC
SOUTH TO SR 104; IMPROVE SIGNAGE ON SR 524 (GASPERS STREET) TO DIRECT
FERRY TRAFFIC SOUTH ON 9TH AVENUE AND THEN WEST ON SR 104; I INFORM
DRIVERS WHEN PINE STREET IS CLOSED DUE TO FERRY TRAFFIC CONGESTION;
WORK WITH WSDOT TO REMOVE PINE STREET AS A SIGNED FERRY TRAFFIC
ROUTE.
(2) FULL GATE CLOSURE AT PINE STREET AND SR 104 DURING PEAK FERRY TRAFFIC.
(3) PERFORM LONG TERM MONITORING FOR COMMUNITY IMPACTS.
(4) CONSIDER ACCELERATING IMPROVEMENTS ALONG 238TH. L
(5) CONTINUE WITH PLANS TO CONSTRUCT A TRAFFIC SIGNAL AT PINE STREET AND
SR 104 IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE EDMONDS CROSSING PROJECT.
Councilmember Orvis spoke in opposition to the motion, believing the best solution was total closure of
Pine Street. He noted the best way to deal with traffic was barriers. He pointed out the gate closure had
several problems such as it was confusing and gave the impression to the driver that the gate might be
open. Regarding the signs, he said the signs would lose their novelty and drivers would not pay attention
to them. He preferred ferry traffic be directed up SR 104 because that roadway was designed to
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April 2, 2002
Page 9
accommodate the traffic. He questioned how the gate differed from the current situation; the current
system was dangerous and didn't work. He was concerned with safety considerations of a full gate such
as how it would prevent left turns onto Pine, particularly when the gate was closed and a driver may
pause in front of oncoming traffic. He was also concerned with the cost of the full gate and the long term
road improvements that are required as a result of traffic traveling through the City. He supported
permanent closure of Pine Street as it pushed traffic out of the downtown area. He agreed there were
issues on 9th Avenue and proposed the City begin addressing those issues as well as issues on 238th. He
said if the State increased ferry traffic in the City, there should be mitigation for the increase.
Councilmember Petso indicated she would vote against the motion, not because it was not a good
compromise or that she doubted the ability to leave the gate down, but because in the spirit of
neighborhood protection, she questioned whether it was any more correct to route ferry traffic down Yd
and Pine than to route it onto Walnut or Dayton. Her preference was full closure of Pine Street and
recapture Pine Street in the future for citizens when a traffic signal was installed at the intersection of
Pine Street and SR 104. She summarized she would temporarily abandon her goal to retain Pine Street
for local residents and vote against the motion because it did not achieve the one goal that nearly every
speaker agreed upon — keep ferry traffic out of residential neighborhoods. Should the motion pass, she
encouraged Mr. Smith to consider keeping the gate down longer than 6 hours a week.
Councilmember Dawson pointed out this proposal did not route traffic down Pine Street and the signs
would be changed so that the ferry traffic would no longer be routed to Pine Street. Mr. Smith agreed.
Councilmember Dawson pointed out this was a good compromise toward keeping ferry traffic on SR 104
and arterials. She noted the traffic signal was a solution the City needed now, not later as part of the
Edmonds Crossing project. Although she preferred the traffic signal alternative, she did not want the
City to fund the traffic signal and acknowledged the State would not fund a traffic signal at this time.
Given that this was the best solution at this point and that staff would continue to pursue state and federal
funding, she would, with some reluctance, support the motion.
COUNCILMEMBER WILSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, TO
EXTEND DISCUSSION OF THIS ITEM FOR 5 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Wilson thanked Mr. Smith for his hard work and the time he spent creating goodwill in
the community and seeking out the solutions and input that were reflected in this plan. Councilmember
Wilson expressed his support for the proposed action, noting it provided the City the greatest amount of
flexibility. He acknowledged there was no perfect solution. He pointed out if Pine Street were closed,
other issues would arise such as how to divert traffic that currently used SR 104 & Pine to access City
Park. He acknowledged Councilmember Dawson's comment that the ferry created the problem, but
emphasized someone needed to take action to solve the problem.
Councilmember Petso pointed out the closure of Pine Street could be done in a flexible manner that
would allow the City to preserve future options. She pointed out the signs that state "Use Preferred
Route When Yellow Lights Are Flashing" did not make a significant contribution to removing ferry
traffic from residential streets such as P and Pine.
MOTION CARRIED. (The vote was 5-2, with Councilmembers Petso and Orvis voting no.)
5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Ince for Roger Hertrich, 1020 Puget Drive, Edmonds, advised he had not yet had a response to his question
comic
=lopment regarding the City's contract with the Edmonds Alliance for Economic Development or to his question
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 2, 2002
Page 10
regarding the separate arrangement mentioned in the Alliance's letter to Council President Earling dated
March 1. He noted the Alliance's letter denied his suggestion that the contract was not being complied
with. He noted the expenditures by the Alliance, according to their work plan, were an effort to change
the City's codes by doubling density in downtown, reducing parking requirements, and increasing
building heights by an additional floor. He commented this did not appear to represent the proper
expenditure of tourism or marketing dollars. He suggested the Alliance was in violation of its contract
with the City; as an example, in 2002 the tourism dollars went directly to the Chamber of Commerce and
were not supervised by the Alliance. He noted the City and businesses have been cheated out of over
$100,000 in marketing efforts because the Alliance has not devoted funds to marketing. He isuggested
most members of the Chamber would agree that the Alliance was not a welcome organization anymore
and that their work plan would not benefit the City of Edmonds. He commented if Councilmexnbers did
not speak out against the Alliance's work plan, they were agreeing with the Alliance.
Edmonds Roger Oliver, 1031 2"d Avenue S, Edmonds, a volunteer and docent at the Edmonds (,Historical
Summer
Market Museum, reminded the audience that by attending the Edmonds Summer Market, they benefited the
Edmonds Historical Museum who sponsors the market.
City Attorney Scott Snyder stated that Councilmember Petso requested that he review Mr. Hertrich's
request. He has requested and received numerous documents from the City Clerk, and anticipated
providing a report to the Council by the next Council meeting.
6. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Haakenson had no report.
7. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Public Council President Earling directed the Council's attention to a request from the Edmonds Public
Facilities Facilities District for the City to consider forming a partnership with the Edmonds Public Facilities
District District and Snohomish County Public Facilities District, and also a request for matching funds from the
City in the amount of $2 million. He referred the request to the Finance Committee for review.
Excused COUNCILMEMBER DAWSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO
bsence EXCUSE COUNCIL PRESIDENT EARLING FROM THE MARCH 26 COUNCIL MEETING.
MOTION CARRIED. The vote was 6-0-1, with Council President Earling abstaining.
Councilmember Plunkett recognized former Councilmembers Nordquist, Kasper, and Hertrich in the
audience.
Edmonds Councilmember Orvis reiterated Mr. Oliver's comment regarding the Historical Society, explaining when
Summer citizens visited the Summer Market, they had fun as well as supported the Historical Museum.He noted
Market the Historical Museum did not rely on City funds but was supported via private contributio s and the
Summer Market.
Mayor Haakenson reminded the audience the Council would meet for Committee meetings next week
pried
Closed from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by a Closed Record Meeting regarding the Hearing Examiner's
Record recommendation for approval of an application by the Talbot Partners for a nine -lot formal plat and
Meeting Planned Residential Development.
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m.
9ARYt)�AKENSON, MAYOR SANDRA S. CHASE, CITY CLERK
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 2, 2002
Page 11
AGENDA
- EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL
Council Chambers, Public Safety Complex
250 5th Avenue North
7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
APRIL 21 2002
7:00 p.m. - Call to Order
Flag Salute
1. - Approval of Agenda
2. Consent Agenda Items
(A) Roll Call
(B) Approval of City Council Meeting Minutes of March 26, 2002
(C) Approval of Claim Checks #54483 Through #54682 for the Week of March 25,
2002, in the Amount of $206,032.39
(D) Authorization for the Mayor to Sign Contract with Westgate Chapel for
"Operation Homeland" Teen Event
(E) Proclamation in Honor of Days of Remembrance for the Victims of the
Holocaust, April 7 - 14, 2002
3. ( 5 Min.) Proclamation in Honor of Public Health Week, April 1 - 7, 2002
4. (90 Min.) Public Hearing on Edmonds Crossing - Pine Street Ferry Traffic Study
5. Audience Comments (3 Minute Limit Per Person)
6. ( 5 Min.) Mayor's Comments
7. (15 Min.) Council Comments
ADJOURN
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