12/08/2015 City Council
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 1
EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
December 8, 2015
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Earling in the Council
Chambers, 250 5th Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Dave Earling, Mayor
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Council President
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember
Lora Petso, Councilmember
Joan Bloom, Councilmember
Thomas Mesaros, Councilmember
Michael Nelson, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Ari Girouard, Student Representative
STAFF PRESENT
Al Compaan, Police Chief
R. Speer, Police Officer
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Carrie Hite, Parks, Rec. & Cult. Serv. Dir.
Patrick Doherty, Econ. Dev & Comm. Serv. Dir.
Shane Hope, Development Services Director
Scott James, Finance Director
Deb Anderson, Accountant
Rob English, City Engineer
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Scott Passey, City Clerk
Jerrie Bevington, Camera Operator
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
1. ROLL CALL
City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
3. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Buckshnis requested Item A be removed from the Consent Agenda.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows:
B. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #217395 THROUGH #217508 DATED DECEMBER 3,
2015 FOR $547,158.83. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSIT AND CHECKS
#61974 THROUGH #61985 FOR $495,324.94, BENEFIT CHECKS #61986 THROUGH
#61993 AND WIRE PAYMENTS OF $546,088.13 FOR THE PAY PERIOD NOVEMBER
16, 2015 TO NOVEMBER 30, 2015
C. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF A CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM WILLIAM
MARTENSON ($1,000.00)
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December 8, 2015
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ITEM A: APPROVAL OF DRAFT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 20TH,
NOVEMBER 24TH, AND DECEMBER 1ST, 2015
Councilmember Buckshnis pulled this item to abstain from the vote on the November 24, 2015 minutes
due to her absence from the meeting.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
JOHNSON, TO APPROVE ITEM A. MOTION CARRIED (6-0-1), COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS ABSTAINING.
4. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, asked whether the Council was having a public hearing on the budget
tonight. Mayor Earling said there is nothing on the agenda for a public hearing on the budget. Mr.
Hertrich referred to “several attempted hearings” on the budget and the CFP combined. In the past, there
have been separate hearings on the budget and the CFP, allowing citizens three minutes to comment on
each. This year the public is allowed only three minutes to comment on both. He expressed concern that
combining the hearings reduced the opportunity for public participation and did not give the public
enough opportunity to present their concerns or the Council the ability to hear from citizens. He
recommended the Council adopt a policy to have separate public hearings on the budget and the CFP so
citizens have ample opportunity to speak.
5. PUBLIC HEARING
A. PUBLIC HEARING* AND POTENTIAL ACTION ON ORDINANCE BANNING
INSTALLATION OF CRUMB RUBBER ON PUBLICLY OWNED ATHLETIC FIELDS
WITHIN CITY LIMITS FOR ONE YEAR (*PUBLIC COMMENTS WILL BE LIMITED
TO 2-MINUTES PER PERSON)
Mayor Earling advised as there have been several public hearings on this issue, a decision was made to
limit comments to two minutes. He described the procedure for the two minute timing.
Councilmember Petso commented typically a change in the rules would be done via a vote of the Council.
As there did not seem to be an extraordinary number of people in the audience to comment, she suggested
the time limit be the usual three minutes.
Council President Fraley-Monillas explained a decision was made to limit comments to 2 minutes due to
the assumption there would be 25-50 people present to comment. Councilmember Petso said as there are
not, it would be reasonable to allow speakers three minutes.
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO
REVERT TO THREE MINUTES AS USUAL FOR THE COMMENT PERIOD. MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Development Services Director Shane Hope said the City Council is aware of concerns raised about
crumb rubber/SBR, a material used for sports field surfaces and other uses. Citizens have spoken both for
and against the use of crumb rubber over the past several months. The Council has reviewed and
discussed the issue a number of times. At this time the City does not have evidence that crumb rubber on
sports fields causes cancer or other serious health conditions; however, the City is aware the current
information is not conclusive and that the issue will be studied further. Therefore, the Council wishes to
take a cautious approach in the interim and at its December 1, 2015 meeting directed the City Attorney to
prepare an ordinance that would the installation of ban crumb rubber on publicly owned playfields within
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December 8, 2015
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Edmonds for one year. During that period of time, the City will review information including any new
studies about the impacts of SBR and, depending on what is learned, the Council can extend the ban,
make it permanent, lift it or change it.
The City Attorney prepared an ordinance that provides for a one year ban while further analysis on the
effects of crumb rubber on human health and the environment is conducted. In addition to the ordinance
included in the Council packet, the City Attorney prepared an alternative draft that adds more specific
language stating that during the ban crumb rubber cannot be installed on existing fields that have crumb
rubber if substantial renovations are done. Following tonight’s public hearing the Council can discuss,
take action to adopt the original ordinance in the packet or the alternative ordinance, a nd make any
amendments.
Councilmember Bloom referred to the revised draft ordinance and asked if that could be posted or made
available to the public or could the changes be described. City Attorney Jeff Taraday explained after the
original draft was sent to Council, he requested Council feedback. The revisions to the ordinance are
intended to address some of the Council feedback. He summarized the changes:
Added a whereas clause that references the EPA Q&A on its website, one particular Q&A that
responds to the question, What advice does EPA have for communities who are concerned about
tire crumb?
Amended the definition of SBR to clarify it is not solely used for infill material but also can be
used as a base layer.
Add paragraph C to Section 2 that reads, “Install SBR on existing publicly-owned SBR athletic
fields within the City of Edmonds as part of a substantial renovation of such existing SBR fields,
provided that for maintenance purposes, infill top dressing of existing SBR fields shall be allowed
as needed to keep an appropriate amount of the fiber exposed and to maintain property infill
depth.”
Councilmember Buckshnis expressed concern with the lack of compilation of literature and
documentation to support a decision. She observed the ordinance referred to monitoring the status of
ongoing and new research and asked about the compilation of details to support a decision in case a
lawsuit occurs. With her background in regulatory issues, she wanted to ensure all bases were covered.
Mr. Taraday referred to Section 3 of the Ordinance that outlines in addition to the monitor provision in
3A, a report will be provided to the Council sometime in 2016. As far as the defensibility of this
ordinance, he said time will tell but felt the whereas clauses were strong enough to support a one year
ban. Councilmember Buckshnis agreed.
Councilmember Johnson asked if the Council should encourage speakers testifying at the public hearing
to cite their references or submit reports to add to the testimony. Mr. Taraday responded Councilmembers
may refer to studies during their deliberation, there has already been a lot of that discussion and citizens
have provided detailed information and cited studies; all of that is part of the legislative record. He
summarized it did not hurt for the public to cite specific things but it was not required.
Mayor Earling opened the public participation portion of the public hearing.
Laura Johnson, Edmonds, commented this has been a learning experience for everyone; she has learned
a lot about turf, science, marketing, and politics and has been given many chances to improve her public
speaking. Today she attended a presentation on turf safety and options. The presentation was attended by
about 40 burly guys and industry representatives, some of them second generation turf lineage and a few
big names in the turf industry. She was surprised to learn they were all there for the same reason,
concerns about crumb rubber and the desire to provide the safest fields. Field maintenance guys, school
facility representatives being proactive about parent concerns, industry guys; their concerns included
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December 8, 2015
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possible toxicity of crumb rubber, extreme heat in the summer on crumb rubber fields and certain
physical injuries increased by crumb rubber fields. She learned a lot about concussions and advances
made in turf safety. Heat is a huge issue; on an 80 degree day, the field can reach 140 degrees, a
dangerous temperature especially for children. It was a great presentation; she made wonderful contacts
and brought back many samples to share. They offered to provide a similar presentation for Edmonds and
she suggested inviting local cities, parks and recreation, and school districts. She thanked the Council for
doing their due diligence on the matter of turf safety and for looking at the big picture. She encouraged
the Council to approve a one-year or longer ban on the use of SBR crumb rubber on children’s
playgrounds and athletic fields.
Steve Margo, Edmonds, recalled he spoke to the Council in July about his son playing goalkeeper and
his experience as a soccer coach. As most of son’s games with SnoKing would be on crumb rubber fields,
they elected not to have him play soccer, the only sport he enjoys. There are a few fields like Civic Field
that are not crumb rubber. He thanked everyone for fighting against crumb rubber and the Council for
listening. He was encouraged the City was on the right track.
Jen Carrigan, Edmonds, commented it has been a long nine months. She thanked the Council for
listening and being willing to learn and be informed along with citizens throughout the process. She
would not be here if she did not believe based on emerging evidence that real lives will be impacted by
the Council’s decision. She was grateful for the Council hearing them and appreciated their willingness to
take a stand for children’s safety and the wellbeing of the environment via a ban on crumb rubber in
Edmonds for one year or longer. She was proud of decision-makers and was proud to part of the
community in Edmonds.
David Anderson, PhD in Toxicology from the University of Washington who did studies on the effect of
nuclear power plan effluence looking at multiple toxins, said he was here primarily because a
grandmother, Senator Maralyn Chase, asked him to come because she could not understand the science.
She asked him to find a paper she could understand. Dr. Anderson cited an Italian study he found that said
a person eating a certain food with a carcinogen in it gives the body a dose. The objective of the study
was to determine how much a person inhaled on a turf field and compare that to the dose a person would
get if they ate the product. Combining all the carcinogens in a toxic equivalence found a person was
getting 1,000 times the acceptable level if they ate the carcinogens. The study said it is not negligible if it
is breathed above the field surface if it was the normal temperature; the temperature makes a difference.
He also attended the same presentation Ms. Johnson attended and learned Allied Parks & Recreation are
installing fields that do not have infill or crumb rubber; NYC Parks & Recreation and Montgomery
County, Maryland are not installing SBR; University of Nebraska and University of San Francisco are
installing GeoTurf’ and Yale is requesting bids to replace a 3-year old crumb rubber field with GeoTurf
or an organic infill. He summarized Edmonds is not the first to determine crumb rubber is a bad idea;
others are doing it and there are materials to address the problem.
Cassie Goforth, Edmonds, and her son Jeff, thanked the Council for taking this step, being willing to
entertain it and being willing to look at the possibility of a ban on crumb rubber. She did not understand
how the School District could think it was a good idea to use this substance when so many benign
substances were available. She found it frustrating to write letters without a satisfactory reply. She was
encouraged there was a governing body willing to look at the data and listen to toxicologists and PhDs
share their expertise. She understood there was a possibility of a one year or longer ban, commenting in
her experience longitudinal studies provide the best data. She encouraged the Council to consider a three-
year ban when data will available from a study being done in California. She thanked the Council for
taking the time and process to benefit the community. She was proud Edmonds was on the forefront of
this important issue and protecting children.
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December 8, 2015
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Senator Maralyn Chase, Edmonds, said it was important to continue to bring the latest information
forward. She provided a November 17, 2015 report from the EPA, Tire Crumb Q&A which is consistent
with the action the Council is proposing to take. The EPA recommends communities look at alternatives
for playfields until the science is in. She appreciated Dr. Anderson’s comments about her inability to
understand the science. The EPA report references the California study; there is a lot of hope riding on
that study across the country including from Congress. She felt it was important for Edmonds to take a
stand until the latest science is available. The EPA report makes it clear that state and local governments
are responsible for governing crumb rubber. She could not propose to her colleagues in Olympia that the
science was in; it is not and the state must wait until the latest information is available. Another issue that
hasn’t been address is what happens to people working on the fields when it gets very hot; her
understanding was there had only been one death attributed to overheating. She was hopeful the
California study will provide the necessary information in one year but recognized it may be three years.
She thanked the Council for their diligence and said she was proud to live in Edmonds.
Emma Johnson, Edmonds, said toxins are really bad and we really don’t know if it is safe to put them
on fields. She thanked the Council for taking measures to keep the public safe and said we shouldn’t be
experimenting on children with regard to things this serious.
Alexandra Markiel, Brier, said her mom’s PhD is in health service research so she has some knowledge
about the risks associated with using surrogate endpoints in clinical trials. She cited a drug that was
approved based on observed improvements and ECG tests. A postmark test comparing the efficiency of
new drugs to older drugs had to be discontinued prematurely when monitoring indicated the drug
significant increased mortality. It was estimated over 80,000 patients died as a result of the use of the
drugs. The relevance is no computer model or risk assessments can fully predict how the human body will
react to a chemical or chemical mixture. The only way to truly estimate the safety of crumb rubber is
trials on live animals. Since millions of children have already been exposed, data on their health should
be collected. To calculate the blood cancer risks in 15-24 year old goalies it is necessary to have a
complete accounting of all the 15-24 year old goalies who have developed cancer over a given time
period. This allows for a calculation of the incidence of blood cancer in this group which can then be
compared to the incidence of blood cancer of 15-24 years olds in the general population. If there is no
difference, it can be concluded that crumb rubber does not increase the risk of blood cancer in this age
group. She relayed numbers her mom ran to demonstrate precisely how much data would need to be
reviewed assuming the incidence of blood cancer in 15-24 year olds is 20 cases per 100,000 individuals.
She urged the Council to vote for kids, be bold and remember citizens voted them into office to represent
their interests and citizens have made their opinions very clear on this issue.
Christie Davis, Brier, reiterated it is up to Council to determine what to do. A bunch of data would be
needed to determine whether crumb rubber safe. The Council’s job is to protect citizens. The federal
government has already failed citizens; it was their job to determine whether crumb rubber full of
carcinogens was safe before it got on the market. Crumb rubber has been on the market for over 15 years;
scientists, doctors and citizens have all raised concerns but they have yet to mount a study on human
safety. As a result citizens like Ms. Johnson and she have spent countless hours doing research about
crumb rubber, looking at potential risks, researching alternate infills and presenting this information in
three minute segments to the Council, gathering signatures, written letter to newspapers, written opinion
pieces, given interviews, organized community presentations and peaceful protests, all of which have
taken time away from their families. She urged the Council to extend the ban to three years as no new
data proving the safety of crumb rubber will be available in the next year because a study of 100,000 or
more will be needed to prove it is safe. She urged the Council to hire a health effects researcher; if the
Council hired an industrial hygienist or an industry toxicologist, she feared everyone would be back again
in a year to debunk what they did. She submitted written materials to the City Clerk.
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Kortney Hamilton, Edmonds, thanked the Council for their attention on crumb rubber infill. She hoped
the Council would pass the resolution so that more data could be collected and reviewed and in the
meantime no more crumb rubber infill would be installed. She understood the need for sports, having
been an athlete as a child, but she recommended the City pursue non-toxic alternatives. The Council’s
vote to practice precautionary principle via adoption of the resolution is a vote for the health of humans
and the environment. She supported a ban of at least one year if not more.
Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, complimented Councilmembers for the attention they have given to all
speakers, commenting everyone has learned a lot about crumb rubber. He urged the Council to speak with
great enthusiasm regarding a motion to ban crumb rubber. He preferred a three-year ban because it would
allow time for more studies. If the Council adopted a one-year ban, he recommended a public hearing at
the end of one year in order to renew the ban. He relayed talking to a man this week who used to play
soccer on crumb rubber fields. On a 70 degree day, he was taking break on a knee and breathed in the
fumes from the field and has had bronchial problems ever since. Whether they were directly related, the
man felt they were because he had never had a problem before that. He summarized that is an example of
what a ban will prevent.
Dave Page, Edmonds, commented the Council knows where he stands on crumb rubber. He made Mr.
Wambolt a $100 bet there would never be crumb rubber in Edmonds and had to pay on the bet; he would
like a chance to get his money back. He appreciated the Council’s attention and assumed
Councilmembers had made their decision. He summarized there was no need for further debate unless the
Council wanted a ban longer than one year.
Hearing no further comment, Mayor Earling closed the public participation portion of the public hearing.
Councilmember Mesaros suggested the following revisions to the ordinance:
Revise the first whereas to read, “…the lack of full scientific certainty is not a reason for
postponing measures to prevent the any potential damage; and”
Revise second to last whereas on the first page, “…these chemicals may have synergistic effects
and are present in levels that may pose a health risk; and”
Councilmembers agreed with the above revisions.
Council President Fraley-Monillas asked what would be required to extend the ban if at the end of one
year the Council did not have concise or complete information. Mr. Taraday answered another ordinance
would be required to extend the duration. Observing the ordinance has a sunset clause in Section 4,
Council President Fraley-Monillas asked if an automatic review could be added prior to the sunset date so
there is notification of the upcoming sunset date because if the ordinance was not extended, as written the
ban would expire as of the sunset date. Mr. Taraday said a possibility would be to add a subsection D to
Section 3 establishing a month within which a public hearing would be held. Council President Fraley-
Monillas observed the ban begins January 11 and extends through January 2017. She suggested a review
on December 1. Mr. Taraday clarified the ordinance takes effect 30 days after final passage; if adopted
tonight, the effective date would not be January 11. He preferred to have a specific date for expiration
rather than a year from the effective date. Council President Fraley-Monillas suggested the ordinance
require notification one month before the ordinance is due to expire.
Council President Fraley-Monillas asked what happens if the City miraculously learns something one way
or the other in six months, such as the EPA says crumb rubber is not allowed anywhere or says it’s safe
and can exist anywhere. She asked whether the Council could then lift the ban or make it permanent. Mr.
Taraday responded like any ordinance, this ordinance can be amended at any time. If something definitive
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December 8, 2015
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is revealed much earlier than expected, the Council could take action in response and that could occur
before expiration of the ordinance.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether the City had ever done a moratorium for 18 months so that it
expired in the summer instead of the end of the year. She was concerned with jamming everything into
end of the year. She supported gathering data to ban crumb rubber indefinitely. Mr. Taraday reiterated
this is not a GMA moratorium and the Council is not bound by the time limits on GMA moratoria. The
duration of the ban was the result of Council deliberation and voting at the last meeting; if the Council
wants an 18 month ban instead of 12 months, that is entirely up to the City Council.
Councilmember Bloom referred to the definition of publicly-owned athletic fields in the ordinance, noting
there is not a definition of athletic field. She asked whether the definition of publicly-owned athletic fields
included playgrounds. Mr. Taraday answered no, if by playground she meant things that little kids would
play on that have slides and climbing structures, athletic field does not include playgrounds. Since the
Council can change the ordinance at any time, Councilmember Bloom observed the Council could decide
at any time to increase it to three years, make it permanent or eliminate it. Mr. Taraday answered yes.
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 4013 WITH THE CHANGES SUGGESTED BY COUNCILMEMBER
MESAROS AND ALTERING THE TIMING SO THAT THE ORDINANCE IS EFFECTIVE
THROUGH JULY 11, 2017 AND ADDING A REQUIREMENT FOR A PUBLIC HEARING IN
JUNE OF 2017.
Councilmember Bloom referred to the requirement to hire someone to do the review and asked whether
that could be delineated in the ordinance to ensure an appropriate person was hired. Councilmember Petso
said she heard three titles mentioned during public comment; it was suggested the City was not looking
for an industry toxicologist or industrial hygienist; a health effects researcher may have been the title
suggested. She was uncertain that level of detail was necessary in the ordinance and trusted everyone
would recognize the review would be a waste of money if the right person was not hired and would make
every effort to hire the right person.
As the Council’s intent was to ban SBR, Councilmember Bloom asked why playgrounds were not
included. Councilmember Mesaros agreed with Councilmember Bloom that athletic field limits the intent.
He was concerned playground was a very loose definition. Mr. Taraday recommended keeping athletic
fields and playgrounds separate. If the Council wanted to ban the use of SBR on both, he recommended
doing it separately in different sections of the ordinance. Councilmember Mesaros asked whether that
could be done at later date Mr. Taraday answered yes.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mayor Earling declared a brief recess.
Mr. Taraday clarified the alternative ordinance will be amended to reflect:
The public hearing amendment offered by Councilmember Petso will be placed in Section 3D and
read, “Conduct a public hearing in June 2017 to determine whether this ordinance should be
extended.”
Sunset date changed from January to July
The amendments proposed by Councilmember Mesaros are included
6. ACTION ITEMS
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December 8, 2015
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A. CONTINUED DELIBERATIONS AND ADOPTION OF 2016 BUDGET, INCLUDING
THE CAPITAL FACILITIES PLAN (CFP) ELEMENT OF THE COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN
Mayor Earling explained several agenda items scheduled tonight were moved to next week so that the
Council could discuss and hopefully pass the budget tonight. If not, an additional meeting has been
scheduled on December 22 for further budget deliberations.
Finance Director Scott James referred to a PowerPoint he provided Councilmembers summarizing the
remaining issues. He reviewed staff recommended changes to 2016 budget:
Item # Descriptions Cash Increase
(Decrease)
GENERAL FUND
1 Students Saving Salmon Club for Stream Testing ($5,000)
2 Reduce PFD Contingency Reserve to $135,000 from
$180,000
$45,000
3 Increase Funding for Prosecutor Contract (DP 39) ($12,000)
4 Include “Ongoing” Transfer to Sister City Fund 138 ($5,000)
Impacts to General Fund Ending Cash $23,000
Fund 112 Street Construction
5 Reduce Stormwater Funding ($187,500)
Impacts to Fund 112 Ending Cash ($187,500)
Fund 421 Water Utility Fund
5 Increase Stormwater Funding $187,500
Impacts to Fund 412 Ending Cash $187,500
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON,
TO ADOPT THESE 5 AMENDMENTS RECOMMENDED BY STAFF TO THE 2016 BUDGET.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. James introduced 20 Council requested changes to the 2016 budget and the Council discussed and
took action on each:
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
1 Council Legislative Asst (DP 1). Move expense from
salaries and benefits to professional services
$0 Buckshnis
Councilmember Buckshnis explained the legislative assistant was included with videotaping in the
budget. She was moving this expense to the correct funding source.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO
MOVE THE EXPENSE FOR THE COUNCIL LEGISLATIVE ASSISTANT FROM SALARIES
AND BENEFITS TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES.
Councilmember Petso asked whether the intent was for this person to be an employee receiving salary and
benefits. Mr. James said Decision Package 1 included salary and benefits, but the thinking was this would
be a contract employee paid from professional services. Councilmember Buckshnis recalled she requested
this be a contract position rather than an employee because an employee would be under the supervision
of the Mayor; the Council’s executive assistant is a contract position and the intent is for this position to
be the same.
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Council President Fraley-Monillas encouraged Council to support this change.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
2 Increase Council Contingency Funding by $10,000 ($10,000) Buckshnis
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS,
TO INCREASE COUNCIL CONTINGENCY FUNDING BY $10,000.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented although the Council has not spent this fund in its entirety in the
past, she felt it was important to keep the funding amount consistent. An amendment can be passed if
additional funding is necessary but that is a much more extensive process versus increasing the Council
Contingency budget. There is little impact on budget from restoring this fund to its normal level.
Council President Fraley-Monillas explained the budget for the Contingency Fund has been $25,000
every year; in 2012 the Council spent $660; $22,000 in 2013 which included the Council hiring its own
attorney for a situation; $8,400 in 2014; and nothing in 2015. She reduced it this year from $25,000 to
$10,000 because in her career in government there was never extra money just floating around; working
for the state there had to be specifics provided regarding how funds would be expended. She was okay
with increasing it to $25,000.
Councilmember Johnson asked whether Councilmember Buckshnis had any ideas for the funding.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to Councilmember Johnson’s interest in $10,000 for a publication
regarding the alternatives study. She also hoped the Veterans Plaza will begin construction next year and
she would like the Council to make a donation to show their respect to veterans. Mayor Earling
commented City Attorney Jeff Taraday and Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite have urged caution
with regard to providing funds for the Veterans Plaza; funds for design are closer to being permissible
rather than just donation. Councilmember Buckshnis agreed.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
3 Reduce Council Travel Budget by $2,500 $2,500 Bloom
Councilmember Bloom asked the total amount of the Council travel budget, whether it had been increased
from $2,500 to $6,700, an increase of $4,200. Mr. James answered that is accurate; page 33 of the budget
book identifies $6,700 for travel. Councilmember Bloom asked whether travel also included lodging.
Council President Fraley-Monillas answered she increased the amount to cover travel, lodging, airfare,
trains, mileage, etc. Training occurs through the state and some Councilmembers do not have the fiscal
ability to attend. For example she recently authorized Councilmember Johnson to attend training; the City
paid for the training but she paid for the mileage and hotel. The intent was $950-$1000 for each
Councilmember to provide them the ability to attend training which ultimately is beneficial to citizens.
Councilmember Bloom asked if it covered airfare. Council President Fraley-Monillas answered
potentially, for example AWC meets in Spokane and a Councilmember may not want to drive in the
winter. The intent is $950 for each Councilmember; how Councilmembers chose to spend it was up to the
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individual. Councilmember Bloom asked if it was only for in-state training. Council President Fraley-
Monillas answered not necessarily; for example AWC recently had training in Portland. She noted $1000
would not get a Councilmember very far or allow them to stay very long. Councilmember Bloom asked
whether the intent was for each Councilmember to have a certain amount and they either used it or lost it.
Council President Fraley-Monillas answered yes; it is intended for development for each Councilmember.
Councilmember Bloom withdrew her request, commenting she did not support Councilmembers flying
across the country for travel.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
4 Reduce Council Training Budget by $2,250 $2,250 Bloom
Councilmember Bloom commented this seemed like a reasonable request, reducing the Council training
budget to $1,000 per Councilmember or $7,000.
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO
REDUCE THE COUNCIL TRAINING BUDGET BY $2,250.
For Councilmember Petso, Mr. James identified the Miscellaneous line item on page 33 of the budget
book, a budget amount of $9,250 for 2016. Councilmember Petso asked why it was labelled
Miscellaneous if it was intended as training. Mr. James answered regi strations for conferences are
budgeted in that line item.
Council President Fraley-Monillas found reducing the training budget acceptable but reminded there are
costs for training.
Councilmember Johnson asked whether there was anything in Miscellaneous other than training. Council
President Fraley-Monillas recalled the Council Executive Assistant indicated there were other
miscellaneous expenditures. Mr. James was not aware of other expenditures included in that line item.
Council President Fraley-Monillas commented if there was a problem, funds from the Council
Contingency Fund could be used.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
5 Add Tree Board Funding for Staff Support & Supplies ($9,000) Bloom
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO ADD
$9,000 FOR TREE BOARD STAFF SUPPORT AND SUPPLIES.
Councilmember Bloom commented this is consistent with funds allocated in the budget for the Diversity
Commission; $6,000 to hire a contract person and $3,000 for supplies such as the Arbor Day celebration
and retaining the City’s Tree City USA status to apply for grants for matching funds to purchase trees for
the right-of-way, in parks, etc.
Council President Fraley-Monillas commented the reason the Diversity Commission was allocated that
much was they needed startup funds; it was her understanding that was not a permanent amount but a
temporary amount for them to get started. Councilmember Bloom responded a consultant is necessary for
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 11
the City to maintain its Tree City USA status which allows the City to apply for grants for matching funds
to purchase trees. To maintain Tree City USA status this year, the consultant gathered data regarding per
capita expenditures; that was previously done by a Tree Board Member but it is very time consuming and
difficult to do. The consultant would also organize Arbor Day events which also support the Tree City
USA status. A consultant is necessary because there is not a staff member to provide support to the Tree
Board.
Council President Fraley-Monillas asked what would be done with $9,000 and whether it was a request
from the department. Development Services Director Shane Hope answered this was prepared at
Councilmember Bloom’s request. She explained $3,000 was budgeted in 2015 for temporary consultant
assistance; approximately $2,000 has been used this year and conceivably the remaining $1,000 could be
carried forward. The proposed assistance via a contract person would be to attend monthly Tree Board
meetings, respond to questions that arise at meetings, coordinate with City departments about questions or
ideas, be a primary contact for and prepare the City’s annual Tree City USA application, identify grant
opportunities and develop grant applications, help organize Arbor Day and other events, facilitate
outreach and education about trees, an help with other activities within the scope and time available.
Supplies could be items needed for Arbor Day or other events, purchasing trees or publishing information
about trees.
Council President Fraley-Monillas observed $1,000 remained from the $3,000 budgeted in 2015. Ms.
Hope responded the $3,000 was not allocated until September and covered 4 months; approximately
$2,000 has been spent in 4 months. Council President Fraley-Monillas asked whether that was intended as
temporary or permanent assistance; Councilmember Bloom’s request appears to be for permanent
assistance for the Tree Board. Ms. Hope answered that is up to the City Council.
Councilmember Johnson referred to Decision Package #36, advanced planner, relaying the description
states support boards and commissions. She asked whether that planner would support the Tree Board.
Ms. Hope answered she originally proposed a full-time planner who would be able to provide more
support to boards and commissions; even a halftime planner would be able to provide some level of
support to the Tree Board and other boards and commissions but not a huge amount. Councilmember
Johnson said in theory she did not support the use of consultants for boards and commissions and
preferred to use staff for that function. She understood there are times that cannot be done but requested
administration see how it could be done within current staffing levels.
Councilmember Petso pointed out the list of Council requested changes includes a proposal to eliminate
the position Councilmember Johnson just referenced.
Councilmember Mesaros asked whether support of boards and commissions is done primarily by staff
and this would be an exception to that. Ms. Hope answered yes, in the past boards and commissions have
been solely supported by staff or board members other than consultant help for special projects. For the
first time at the end of 2015, funds were provided for consultant assistance for the Diversity Commission
and the Tree Board. Councilmember Mesaros said one of his concerns with the use of a consultant is
unintentional drift from what is going on in the City.
Councilmember Bloom reminded the Council has discussed this many times. The Tree Board had an
average of 12 hours/months of support when the Tree Code was being written; prior to that, when she was
on the Tree Board as a resident, there was no staff support other than the council assistant who posted
things online, there was no minute taker, no one to prepare the agenda, etc. When the Tree Board was
formed, Council was informed there was no staff support available so the Tee Board has limped along
without staff support. When Councilmember Buckshnis was Council President, funds were provided for a
minute taker and a door monitor; she recently learned those are not in budget which means the Tree Board
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 12
is back to square one without these funds. She acknowledged the budget is not the time to address this for
all boards and commissions; that should have been done via the subcommittee on boards and
commissions. The Tree Board needs support; without this funding the City will be unable to maintain its
Tree City USA certification. The consultant was enormously helpful in attaining that this year.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented this is like deja-vu; the reason there is a consultant for the
Diversity Commission is that requires someone that understands diversity, ethics, etc. If there is no staff
support for the Tree Board, there needs to be a consultant. Without this funding, the City will lose its Tree
City USA status and will continue to lose Tree Board Members.
Council President Fraley-Monillas commented the loss of board members has nothing to do with funding
or consultants.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
PETSO, TO AMEND THE MOTION TO CHANGE THE AMOUNT TO $5,000.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said $5,000 plus $2,000 that was not used this year would provide
$7000 for 2016. She agreed the Tree Board needed funds to get up and running but doubted they needed a
permanent consultant. The Tree Board Chair determined that minutes are not needed and notes could be
taken which would reduce the expense. Providing $1,000 for supplies could be accomplished within a
$5,000 budget and $2,000 rolled over from 2015.
Councilmember Petso asked whether unspent amounts automatically roll over into the next year. Mr.
James answered typically unspent funds are not reallocated unless there is a budget amendment. A
carryforward amendment is traditionally done in February, usually for projects, not operating expenses.
He clarified the unused amount in 2015 was $1,000, not $2,000. He asked how the $5,000 would be
allocated.
Councilmember Mesaros asked whether Development Services will provide support to the Tree Board if
this request is not approved. Ms. Hope answered there would be some support from Development
Services as well as Parks & Recreation. Councilmember Mesaros asked if that assistance would fulfill
what Councilmember Bloom and Buckshnis requested such as maintaining the City’s Tree City USA. Ms.
Hope answered it could; it was great to have the consultant coordinate Tree City USA this year, however,
all the information came from staff. Councilmember Mesaros asked whether Ms. Hope recommended
including funds in the budget to utilize a consultant again for that coordinating role. Ms. Hope answered it
would helpful to have some funding; the full amount may not be needed.
Councilmember Johnson recalled this year there was a fund from which money for individual boards and
commissions could be allocated for specific projects. She asked whether that practice was continued in
this budget or should funds be specifically allocated for items such as saving salmon, historic
preservation, Tree Board, etc. Mr. James recommended the Council use the budget process for direct
allocations. He recalled discussion about procedures for boards/commissions to make requests from that
fund but was uncertain whether any funds had been allocated for boards and commissions this year.
Councilmember Johnson supported a dollar amount to assist the Tree Board with projects but preferred to
have staff provide support.
Councilmember Bloom did not envision that staff had the ability to provide support. She recalled Ms.
Hope saying staff could provide some support such as Tree City USA and asked whether staff could
organize an Arbor Day event. Ms. Hope answered not without more staffing; however, Parks &
Recreation did provide staff assistance during the most recent event. Councilmember Bloom asked
whether staff would be able to assist with educational events sponsored by the Tree Board. Ms. Hope
answered probably not much without additional staffing. Councilmember Bloom asked whether staff
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 13
would be able to do events such as the tree planting in right-of-way where a water project was constructed
that was coordinated by the Tree Board and the consultant. Ms. Hope answered she was not certain, but
recalled Public Works and Parks & Recreation were involved with that effort. Councilmember Bloom
said it was coordinated by the Tree Board in conjunction with Public Works; she asked whether Ms. Hope
had a staff member to do that type of coordination. Ms. Hope answered no.
Councilmember Bloom said her concern is all the things the Tree Board has tried to do have been
handicapped by the lack of a consistent person to provide support and answer citizens’ questions at
meetings about trees. The consultant hired this year was a certified arborist and was able to answer
questions that arose. She did not think there was sufficient staff to provide that support even if the
Council approves a half-time advance planner because that person will be providing assistance to other
boards and commissions such as the Planning Board.
Councilmember Nelson said he would oppose the amendment as he wanted to fully support the Tree
Board as stated in Councilmember Bloom’s motion.
AMENDMENT FAILED (2-5), COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS AND
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON VOTING YES.
MOTION CARRIED (5-2), COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS AND
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON VOTING NO.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
6 Remove Council Legislative Asst (DP 1) from the Budget $42,160 Petso
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
REMOVE THE COUNCIL LEGISLATIVE ASSISTANT FROM THE BUDGET.
Councilmember Mesaros observed Councilmember Petso had ten requests and asked what her intent was.
Councilmember Petso said she had two concerns when she reviewed the 2016 budget; one is the loss of
sustainability in the General Fund. In recent years, there were large, one-time capital expenditures such as
road paving in the General Fund that could be removed if times got tough, allowing the City to tighten its
belt without laying off staff. This budget is filling the General Fund with as many ongoing salary
expenses as possible; salaries expenses are the hardest to cut once a person has been hired, whether it is a
legislative assistant which the Council has never had before, or a police officer or an arts assistant. She
did not want to hire every person proposed to be hired in this budget in order to leave a margin; if the
entire General Fund is expended on salaries and benefits and they go up 5% a year and property taxes can
only increase 1%/year, there will be a big problem within a few years or citizens will be asked to support
a levy. One of her themes with this year’s budget was finding ways to minimize extra hiring so if the
economy does not continue to increase, the City will not have to lay off staff.
Councilmember Bloom observed this is a part-time position; she asked how many hours were envisioned
and if there would be a separate halftime Council executive assistant position. Council President Fraley-
Monillas answered the legislative assistant was budgeted for 20 hours and the budget includes 16 hours
for an administrative assistant to assist with things like the Tree Board, salaries, etc. the current executive
assistant works daytime hours; she envisioned the legislative assistant would work afternoons, evenings
and weekends.
Council President Fraley-Monillas explained this was a research position. The Council is a legislative
body; having someone to research issues would be helpful. She and Councilmembers Nelson, Mesaros,
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 14
and Johnson have experience working with legislative aids in their employment. One of the job
requirements for this position will be the ability to work evenings and potentially weekends; the person
may need to observe meetings, go to Olympia, report to the Council, provide testimony, etc. There are
many things a legislative aid could do to assist the Council with regard to legislation versus the assistance
provided by an administrative assistant. She plans to request this person work afternoons so there is
coverage in the Council office; currently the administrative assistant works 8:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.; calls
outside those hours go to voicemail. Having better coverage in the afternoons and potentially evenings
and weekends would be beneficial to the Council. She recommended trying this position for a ye ar via a
contract person rather than an ongoing expense.
Councilmember Petso clarified the decision package says ongoing; it would be great if that were changed
although it may limit who the Council was able to hire.
Councilmember Johnson expressed support for the legislative assistant position, recalling this proposal
was developed by the Council President, considered by the Mayor and Directors and included in the
budget proposal so it has been properly vetted. There will be a year-to-year contract the same as there is
for the executive assistant so there is no danger of being wedded to this idea if it does not work out or the
person leaves. A legislative assistant will help the Council do its job and staff will benefit from
coordinated questions rather than individual Councilmembers trying to get same information.
Council President Fraley-Monillas commented there will be four Councilmembers who work and a
couple with children/grandchildren at home. Being a Councilmember is a difficult job at best;
employment and family obligations make doing adequate research difficult.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS CALLED FOR THE QUESTION, SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS. CALL FOR THE QUESTION CARRIED (5 -2),
COUNCILMEMBERS PETSO AND BLOOM VOTING NO.
MOTION FAILED (1-6), COUNCILMEMBER PETSO VOTING YES.
Mayor Earling commented most of items considered thus far affected the Council. The following requests
will degrade the philosophy in the budget approach. He did not support the following requests,
commenting the budget was thoroughly vetted by staff and staff has negotiated amongst themselves. He
summarized it is a good budget and several of the expenses are one-time expenditures.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
7 Remove Staff Accountant Position (DP 11) from the Budget $67,020 Petso
Fund 421 Water Utility Fund
7 Remove Staff Accountant Position (DP 11) from the Budget $13,300 Petso
Fund 422 Storm Utility Fund
7 Remove Staff Accountant Position (DP 11) from the Budget $7,390 Petso
Fund 423 Sewer Fund
7 Remove Staff Accountant Position (DP 11) from the Budget $16,240 Petso
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
REMOVE THE STAFF ACCOUNTANT POSITION FROM THE BUDGET.
Councilmember Petso relayed her concern with the amount of hiring. On her personal hiring priority list,
police were at the top and a staff accountant and legislative assistant were further down.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 15
Councilmember Bloom said she has the same concerns as Councilmember Petso regarding the number of
staff added in the budget. She felt too many staff were added in this budget, a commitment that would
burden the City in the future. She supported the motion.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said she did not see a lot of new staff that was just hiring to be hiring.
She inquired about the Finance Department FTE five years ago compared to now, relaying her
understanding that many of the positions were making up for staff that was let go in the past or not hired.
Mr. James responded when he left the City in 2005, there were 10 FTE in Finance; there are now 7. After
he left, the BID billing/collection was added, and many announcements that are very complex and
demanding of staff time. He requested this position last year because he felt there was a huge need for it;
when the FD1 surprise bill arrived, he voluntarily pulled this request as did other staff. After serving as
the Finance Director for over 1½ years he feels this position is needed; the decision package speaks for
itself.
Council President Fraley-Monillas commented at some point Council needed to depend on staff telling
them they can get by or they need more. Councilmembers do not work in the departments and do not
know what is happening so must depend on the department director to tell them. She did not have a
problem with adding this staff member in view of the fact that the department has 3 fewer staff now than
when Mr. James left in 2005 and the department is doing more work.
Councilmember Petso recalled this would be the second accountant hired since 2010. Mr. James answered
there is currently one staff accountant, this would be the second. Councilmember Petso asked what
position was hired a few years ago. Mr. James answered there was a shift in staff; there were two staff
accountants; the director at the time wanted a supervisor to help manage staff so one staff accountant was
promoted to the accounting supervisor position. Councilmember Petso asked for clarification whether an
additional person was hired during the past five years. Mr. James said he was not aware of any new hires.
Accountant Deb Sharp said Sarah Mager was hired as a staff accountant and promoted to the accounting
supervisor position. Councilmember Petso Peso concluded staffing had increased, the position name was
changed and this was a request to increase it again. Ms. Sharp agreed.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS CALLED FOR THE QUESTION, SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS. CALL FOR THE QUESTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCILMEMBERS PETSO AND BLOOM VOTING YES.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
8 Move Expense for Downtown Restroom Contribution
from REET 1 Fund 126 to General Fund
($90,000) Petso
Fund 126 REET 1
8 Move Expense for Downtown Restroom Contribution
from REET 1 Fund 126 to General Fund
$90,000 Petso
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
MOVE $90,000 FOR THE DOWNTOWN RESTROOM CONTRIBUTION FROM THE REET 1
FUND 126 TO THE GENERAL FUND.
Councilmember Petso said this related to the second theme in her concerns about the budget, overly
aggressively depleting the 126 Fund. In addition to a variety of individual expenses, $900,000 is being
allocated from the fund to pave roads. Fund 126 is the capital fund the City is permitted to use to acquire
property. If an opportunity to acquire property for parks or open space is presented to City, these funds
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 16
are available to start making a payment toward that purchase. Instead of depleting this fund and assuming
the City would bond for the purchase if an opportunity arises, she preferred the Council establish a
balance they are comfortable having in this fund. As that discussion has never occurred, she pulled 2-3
items to restore the balance in Fund 126.
Council President Fraley-Monillas questioned of all things, the downtown restroom, noting it was in the
SAP and people have been talking about the need for a restroom for years. Councilmember Petso clarified
her request was not to eliminate the expenditure, just to change the funding source. Council President
Fraley-Monillas questioned why this expenditure would not be appropriate for Fund 126 when it is a
parks project. If it is funded from the General Fund, an additional $90,000 in cuts would be required.
Councilmember Petso agreed.
Councilmember Johnson commented expenditures from REET 1 are allowed for special capital projects
and park acquisition, so technically this expenditure can be made from that fund. She agreed with
Councilmember Petso that the Council should establish a policy with regard to an amount to retain in the
park acquisition fund, probably in the range of $1 million. It is not enough to rely on bonding capacity;
there have been many opportunities over the past 5-6 years where $1-2 million has been needed for a
purchase with not much lead time.
Councilmember Nelson was supportive of a long term policy with regard to park acquisition but was
confident if something came up in the next year, it could be acquired via bonding. He did not support the
motion.
Councilmember Buckshnis emphasized the REET 1 and 2 have a balance of $2.3 million. She was tired
of the doom and gloom coming from certain people and said it did not make sense to shift $90,000 from
the General Fund. She agreed with establishing a policy in the future.
MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCILMEMBERS PETSO AND BLOOM VOTING YES.
Roger Hertrich asked when there would be an opportunity for public comment on the budget. Mayor
Earling advised two public hearing on the budget were held at past meetings.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
9 Remove Community Relations Consultant (DP 27) from the
Budget
$30,000 Petso
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
REMOVE COMMUNITY RELATIONS CONSULTANT FROM THE BUDGET.
Councilmember Petso explained she made this request because she did not see that this position has
fulfilled the purpose for which it was included in the budget.
Councilmember Bloom explained this position was originally intended to facilitate two-way
communication between elected officials and citizens. The committee that interviewed and made a hiring
recommendation chose a firm that was subsequently rejected by Mayor Earling when Stephen Clifton
resigned. The position has turned into more public/community relations, communicating what is being
done by the Mayor and staff, press releases related to town hall meetings, etc. The purpose of the original
position in the 2014 budget was facilitation of information received from citizens to improve
transparency. She did not see that that has happened and therefore will strongly support the motion to
remove this position from the budget.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 17
Councilmember Johnson inquired about the Mayor’s authority with regard to the budget amount he can
spend for this position. Mr. James answered the Mayor has the ability to contract up to $100,000.
MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND PETSO VOTING YES.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
10 Remove Increase to Annual Business Attraction Advertising
Expense (DP 30) from the Budget
$26,000 Petso
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
REMOVE THE ADDITIONAL $26,000 FOR ANNUAL BUSINESS ATTRACTION
ADVERTISING FROM THE BUDGET
Councilmember Petso said she was pleased with the focus on attracting businesses to Edmonds, a key
component of economic development, but did not see a need to increase it from the prior funding level of
$24,000.
Councilmember Johnson relayed her understanding the previous amount covered a six month period.
Economic Development & Community Services Director Doherty said the 2015 budget includes $24,000
for advertising, an amount that has been included in the budget for a couple years. Starting business
attraction advertising mid-year, he chose the region’s #1 magazine, Seattle Business Monthly, and a small
presence in the Puget Sound Business Journal. The entire budget was used over a 6 month period for the
smallest ad that makes sense, 1/3 page. Having that same level of presence in the marketplace for the
upcoming year will require double the expenditure. A six month presence in the marketplace is not
enough to create regional awareness of Edmonds and he believed the City should continue and increase
the level of advertising.
MOTION FAILED (1-6), COUNCILMEMBER PETSO VOTING YES.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
11 Remove Permit Coordinator Position (DP 35) from Budget $25,720 Petso
Fund 421 Water Utility Fund
11 Remove Permit Coordinator Position (DP 35) from Budget $2,720 Petso
Fund 422 Storm Utility Fund
11 Remove Permit Coordinator Position (DP 35) from Budget $2,720 Petso
Fund 423 Sewer Fund
11 Remove Permit Coordinator Position (DP 35) from Budget $2,720 Petso
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
REMOVE THE PERMIT COORDINATOR POSITION FROM THE BUDGET.
Councilmember Petso said this request is related the too many new hires theme.
Councilmember Johnson relayed her understanding this was a key position that would enable the
Development Services Department to be open five days a week. She commented on the importance of
having the department open five days a week. Ms. Hope explained the building inspector, permit
coordinator and halftime planner positions will enable the department to be open five days a week to
provide service to the community.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 18
MOTION FAILED (1-6), COUNCILMEMBER PETSO VOTING YES.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
12 Remove Advance Planner Positions (DP 36) from Budget $38,530 Petso
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
REMOVE THE ADVANCE PLANNER POSITIONS FROM THE BUDGET.
Councilmember Petso commented this request had the same rationale, too many new hires.
MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCILMEMBERS PETSO AND BLOOM VOTING YES.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
13 Move Expense of Purchase of John Deere Gator Utility
Tractor to the Equipment Rental Fund (DP 42)
$14,400 Petso
Fund 511 Equipment Rental Fund
13 Move expense of purchase of John Deere Gator
Utility Tractor to the Equipment Rental Fund (DP 42)
($14,400) Petso
Councilmember Petso explained she requested this change as it was described in the decision package as
a new acquisition and there is an extremely healthy balance in the 511 Fund.
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
MOVE EXPENSE OF PURCHASE OF JOHN DEERE GATOR UTILITY TRACTOR TO THE 511
FUND.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether the Fund 511 was only for cars. Mr. James advised Fund 511 is
the Equipment Rental Fund which funds various equipment including tractors. Councilmember Buckshnis
asked why this expense was not funded out of Fund 511 in the budget. Mr. James answered staff may not
have been as creative as Councilmember Petso.
Councilmember Johnson asked Mr. James his recommendation for funding this purchase. Mr. James
agreed with the motion as stated.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
14 Remove Construction Inspector Position (DP 44) from the
Budget
$11,380 Petso
Fund 421 Water Utility Fund
14 Remove Construction Inspector Position (DP 44) from the
Budget
$34,140 Petso
Fund 422 Storm Utility Fund
14 Remove Construction Inspector Position (DP 44) from the $34,140 Petso
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 19
Budget
Fund 423 Sewer Fund
14 Remove Construction Inspector Position (DP 44) from the
Budget
$34,140 Petso
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
REMOVE THE CONSTRUCTION INSPECTOR POSITION FROM THE BUDGET
Councilmember Petso commented in addition to the usual theme, it was her understanding there were
other ways pay for this position such as fees or hiring a consultant on a contract basis rather than a
salaried employee.
MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND PETSO VOTING YES.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
15 Move Trackside Warning System Project to General Fund ($300,000) Petso
Fund 126 REET 1
15 Move Trackside Warning System to Project General Fund $300,000 Petso
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
MOVE $300,000 FOR THE TRACKSIDE WARNING SYSTEM PROJECT FROM FUND 126 TO
THE GENERAL FUND.
Councilmember Petso said the rationale is the same as her earlier comments; she is trying to create a
residual balance in the Fund 126 in case an opportunity arises next year.
MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND PETSO VOTING YES.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
16 Remove Expense for Community Survey (DP 29) from the
Budget
$19,000 Bloom
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO
REMOVE THE EXPENSE FOR COMMUNITY SURVEY OF $19,000 FROM THE BUDGET.
Councilmember Bloom said she did not understand the purpose of the survey, recalling from Mr.
Doherty’s description that the survey seemed very vague without a lot of questions and the City recently
did a strategic action plan. She preferred to allocate these funds to support the Invisio tracking system for
the SAP rather than initiating a community survey that is being done on a national level.
Councilmember Petso expressed support for motion; if the City is not going to “say goodbye to the
strategic action plan” then the survey needs to be updated as well as broadened to include public safety
items such as police and fire. This expenditure does not further that goal.
Councilmember Johnson asked if this survey is tied to a particular year like a census or would this
opportunity be available next year. Mr. Doherty answered it is a not a census-tied survey nor is it a survey
that is conducted at same time nationwide. It is a survey conducted by a survey research agency
nationwide whenever participants wish to conduct it. Every year there is some tweaking of the
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 20
standardized questions that address issues related to municipal services, policy issues, etc. and a city has
the opportunity to customize several questions that are of interest to their city. This survey arose out of a
lot of discussion with Councilmembers, the Mayor and others. It could have a r ole in reengaging the
public on the SAP because it would be a statistically significant source of information.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented some people think the SAP is the do-all end-all, but it really is
just a tool. A survey is a report card on things the City is doing and determining direction. Mr. Doherty
agreed it is sort of like a report card; wording on the survey agency’s website refers to a national report
card. It could be used in tandem with the interest the Council expressed earlier this year to reengage the
public related to the SAP. One possibility would be to do the survey early in the year and use that
information to reengage the public in open houses related to the SAP.
MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND PETSO VOTING YES.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
GENERAL FUND
17 Increase Transfer to Historic Preservation Fund ($5,000) Johnson
Fund 014 Historic Preservation
17 Historic Preservation Commission 2017 Calendar ($5,000)
Mr. James noted this item was included in the 2015 budget via an amendment but the $5,000 was not
carried forward for an unknown reason.
Councilmember Johnson explained the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) Chair encouraged her to
make this request to fund the HPC calendar. The HPC had a grant to print the calendar the first year but
has since relied on funding provided in the budget.
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO
ALLOCATED $5,000 FOR THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION CALENDAR. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
Fund 126 REET 1
18 Move $100,000 of Annual Street Preservation Expense to
the REET 2 Fund 125
$100,000 Petso
Fund 125 REET 2
18 Move $100,000 of Annual Street Preservation Expense to
the REET 2 Fund 125
($100,000) Petso
Councilmember Petso withdrew the amendment, relaying that after speaking with Ms. Hite, there is no
need for it.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
Fund 421 Water Utility Fund
19 Remove Water Department Position from the Budget (DP
59)
$67,080 Bloom
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 21
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO
REMOVE THE WATER DEPARTMENT POSITION FROM THE BUDGET.
Councilmember Bloom said this is related to her and Councilmember Petso’s concerns about the large
number of positions added to the budget. Public Works is adding four positions which she felt was
excessive and she could not support.
Council President Fraley-Monillas asked what fund pays for this position. Mr. James answered Fund 421,
the Water Utility Fund. Council President Fraley-Monillas said she will support this position.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (3-4), COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM, JOHNSON AND
PETSO VOTING YES; AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS AND
COUNCILMEMBERS BUCKSHNIS, MESAROS AND NELSON VOTING NO.
Item # Description Cash Increase
(Decrease) Submitter
Fund 422 Storm Utility Fund
20 Replace Stormwater Employee ($60,880) (DP 44) with
Contract Position
$0 Bloom
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO
REPLACE STORMWATER EMPLOYEE, DECISION PACKAGE 44, WITH A CONTRACT
POSITION,
Councilmember Bloom recalled in questioning Mr. Williams last week, he said this position will do an
assessment of the stormwater system; 40% will be completed in 2016 yet the position is scheduled to last
5 years and will be vested after 5 years. The salary for the position increases from $60,000 in 2016 to
$74,000 in 2020. She preferred to have that work done via hiring a contract position. Mr. Williams
explained this is a stormwater maintenance worker, not a technical position or an engineering consultant.
This position will assist with new stormwater regulations that are addressed by the operations group.
Many of the duties, plans, studies and evaluations, are being done by the engineering division but there
are a lot of new operations and maintenance responsibilities under the new regulations which will
continue forever. One of the focuses in the first 12 months is to meet the requirement to have 40% of the
lineal footage of the stormwater system evaluated prior to the end of 2016; this person can assist with that
effort. The stormwater utility has 15 employees: 1 supervisor, 2 leads and 12 staff; that staffing level has
been in place for the past 25 years. With the new requirements, many more things need to be done; what
is needed is more boots on ground in stormwater and that is the purpose of this position.
Councilmember Petso commented the decision package is very specific with regard to video assessment.
She will support the motion based on decision package’s description.
Councilmember Nelson said he will oppose the motion based on Mr. Williams’ explanation.
MOTION FAILED (3-4), COUNCILMEMBERS PETSO, BLOOM AND JOHNSON VOTING YES.
Mr. James advised that concluded the changes requested by Council.
Councilmember Petso asked whether now was the appropriate time to propose an amendment to the CFP.
Mr. James answered yes.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 22
Mr. Taraday explained the CFP and the budget are adopted in the same ordinance. Any amendments to
the CFP should be made now and once votes are taken on all the amendments, there can be a motion and
vote on the ordinance adopting the CFP and the budget.
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
AMEND THE CFP TO REPLACE THE PHRASE MULTIUSE WITH WALKWAY FOR THE
SUNSET AVENUE PROJECT.
Councilmember Petso said the phrase appears three times, twice in the project description and once in the
project benefit rationale.
MOTION CARRIED (5-2), COUNCILMEMBERS MESAROS AND NELSON VOTING NO.
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, THAT
ANY SUBSEQUENT DOCUMENTS, TIP AND CIP, BE CHANGED TO REFLECT THE ACTION
THE COUNCIL JUST TOOK. MOTION CARRIED (5-2) COUNCILMEMBERS MESAROS AND
NELSON VOTING NO.
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO
REMOVE THE WOODWAY FIELDS PROJECT FROM THE CIP/CFP.
Councilmember Bloom explained she has many reason for removing this project, the School District
refused to address residents and Councilmembers’ concerns about the use of crumb rubber in Woodway
Fields and pushed forward installing crumb rubber infill despite objections and appeals to negotiate the
issue; no Interlocal Agreement has been negotiated due to the School District insistence on maintaining
control on all aspects of planned future fields; there is a lawsuit pending related to the Woodway Fields
that will be heard in Superior Court in February; and the Council just banned crumb rubber for 18
months. Given the crumb rubber/SBR ban and the School District’s refusal to negotiate a reasonable ILA
to allow Edmonds a say over future fields, she felt it was prudent to remove Woodway Fields from the
CFP. Putting the Woodway Fields back on the CFP can be addressed when the School Board and
Edmonds City Council are in agreement on how to proceed with future fields which will not happen for
less than 18 months and the CFP/CIP can be updated annually.
Council President Fraley-Monillas understood Councilmember Bloom’s intent but said the Woodway
Fields are not done. She liked Ms. Hope’s comments about the potential for a joint venture on the future
fields and feared if the project was removed from the CFP/CIP, the City would lose the ability to have a
joint venture. The other fields may be a good opportunity for an alternative infill material.
Councilmember Buckshnis agreed with Council President Fraley-Monillas. The ban was a good step and
demonstrated the City’s opinion to the School District. She did not want to limit what could happen on
the Woodway Fields in the future and felt removing the project from the CFP was too drastic. She has
wanted to remove the aquatics center from the CFP since 2009 because she did not think it will ever be
funded but it has remained in the CFP. It is important to keep the project in the CFP in case an option
arises.
Councilmember Mesaros agreed with leaving the project in the CFP/CIP because it made a statement that
the City wanted to negotiate with the School District and partner with the District and other governmental
agencies. A change will be occurring in the School District administration; after June 30 will be a new
era, new leadership and opportunity to forge a new relationship.
Councilmember Petso wished the Council had more time to consider this amendment. The Council heard
recently that the field cages were locked which denies park access. If two more fields are added, they
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 23
cannot be used during school hours, during rentals or when they are locked. The City’s plans to add a lot
of new residents to the Westgate area where there is no park and the City has limited park funding. The
only open space in the area is a cemetery and these fields. She found Councilmember Bloom’s suggestion
very appealing because without the Woodway Fields project, there would be a gr assy area and track for
people to play on. She acknowledged there was a horrendous shortage of athletic fields in Edmonds.
Councilmember Nelson said he supports everyone having a second chance including the School District.
Ms. Hite reminded that the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan completed this past year included a
very robust public process; a high priority was developing fields in Edmonds and this is one of the only
open spaces left where fields can be developed. With a ban on crumb rubber, the fields will not be crumb
rubber but they could be grass or an alternative infill. The Woodway Fields project in the CFP includes
more than just athletic fields; it is a community park and the plan includes resurfacing the tennis courts
and the basketball court, creating the space in the neighborhood that Councilmember Petso said is
lacking.
Councilmember Johnson reminded the Council the CFP is intended to be a 20 year plan. She urged the
Council to think long term, noting many things can happen in 20 years. For that reason, she will support
keeping the project in the CFP.
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM WITHDREW THE MOTION WITH THE AGREEMENT OF THE
SECONDER.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS, TO APPROVE ORDINANCE 4014, ADOPTING THE 2016 BUDGET AS
AMENDED AND AMENDMENTS TO THE CFP/CIP.
Councilmember Petso said she will vote against the motion primarily due to the budget and her concerns
with overloading the General Fund with salaries which impacts the City’s sustainability and she was
concerned the Fund 125 has been overly depleted.
Councilmember Johnson thanked Mr. James for all work he has done coordinating with staff and Council;
he has done an exemplary job and she appreciated his efforts.
Councilmember Bloom said she will also vote against the motion; she did not support the addition of
staff.
Councilmember Buckshnis thanked the Mayor and all staff for their work. She noted as of October the
Fund 126 will only have a balance of $2 million because $390,000 was spent. She rec ommending trusting
the directors and understanding the City is a $95 million corporation and people are needed to do the
work.
Councilmember Nelson thanked Mayor Earling, the directors, and Mr. James for all their work and
patience answering all the Council’s questions publicly as well as via email and telephone. He looked
forward to supporting the budget.
MOTION CARRIED (5-2), COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND PETSO VOTING NO.
Mr. James gave credit to staff who answered most of the questions; he was only the conduit. Mayor
Earling commented this has been a terrific process; staff has gone out of their way to think creatively,
bringing the most to table with the funds available. This is a sensible budget and he was pleased with the
work the directors and support staff in Finance did. Mr. James recognized Accountant Deb Sharp for all
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 24
her work; the department implemented a new budget module and she has been instrumental in learning
and implementing it.
B. CONTINUED DELIBERATIONS AND ADOPTION OF THE PROPOSED CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
Councilmember Petso asked about consistency between the budget and the CIP, noting page 166 of the
budget and the Fund 126 balance in the CIP have same beginning balance but different end of year
balances. The beginning balance for Fund 126 in the budget is $1.4 million and an ending balance of
$600,000; Fund 125 in the CIP has the same beginning balance but the ending balance is $383,000. Mr.
James offered to research.
Councilmember Petso recalled Councilmember Johnson’s earlier motion that all the documents be
consistent. If she votes for this CIP, she asked whether any discrepancies will be fixed under the direction
provided by that earlier motion. Mr. James answered the beginning balance can be adjusted to actuals via
a budget ordinance.
COUNCILMEMBER NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
APPROVE THE CIP. MOTION CARRIED (6-0-1), COUNCILMEMBER PETSO ABSTAINING.
C. AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR
HIGHWAY 99 SUBAREA PLANNING PROJECT
Development Services Director Shane Hope advised funding for professional services for the Highway 99
project was approved in the 2015 budget. It was understood at that time that the project would not begin
until the Comprehensive Plan update and other projects were completed. An RFQ process was done for
the Highway 99 Subarea Planning Project; six qualified responses were submitted. Following review,
reference checks and interviews, Fregonese Associates was selected as the lead consultant. She requested
Council approval of the $100,000 professional services agreement. The professional services agreement
does not include additional funds for 2016; those will be handled via an addendum. This approval will
allow the Highway 99 Subarea Planning Project to begin.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
NELSON, TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT FOR THE HIGHWAY 99 SUBAREA PLANNING PROJECT. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
7. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Earling advised there will be no Council meeting on December 22 but there is a robust agenda for
next week’s meeting. He reported today’s annual staff party was fabulous, terrific organization by staff
and everyone had a great time.
8. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Council President Fraley-Monillas congratulated Megan Luttrell who was selected City of Edmonds
Employee of Year. She pointed out Councilmembers were all dressed in dark colors tonight.
Councilmember Nelson said he submitted a budget amendment on Friday regarding a traffic enforcement
officer due to his concern with increased pedestrian incidents and traffic safety in general. After further
conversation, he withdrew that amendment, understanding there will be a broader effort to address traffic
and pedestrian safety.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 8, 2015
Page 25
Nelson said he was proud of the Council’s willingness to use its authority to take the necessary steps to
protect citizens from crumb rubber and for Edmonds to lead the way for the health and safety of
everyone. The City represents a growing trend in the county that people are sick of harmful chemicals in
products they use every day. He hoped tonight’s action sends a message to industries that produce
healthy, natural products for children to play on that they are always welcome in the City. As for tires, he
suggested they roll on by.
Councilmember Bloom asked when the Council would be discussing the Critical Areas Ordinance.
Council President Fraley-Monillas advised it is on next week’s agenda. Councilmember Bloom observed
the Hearing Examiner’s annual report is on next week’s agenda but nothing about hiring a Hearing
Examiner. It was her understanding that appointment would come to Council before the end of the year.
Mayor Earling answered only two applications were submitted so Ms. Hope and he decided to extend the
application period a couple weeks in an effort to attract more applicants. The current Hearing Examiner
will provide his report next week.
Councilmember Buckshnis was pleased the Council completed the budget. She is very serious about long
term financial planning and after meeting with the consultant to review Fire District 1’s numbers, she
looked forward to their report. She said change is coming, the numbers are looking great and she is very
hopeful for next year.
Councilmember Mesaros commented this morning’s Daybreakers Rotary meeting featured Police Chief
Al Compaan and K-9 Officer Robinson who did a fine job representing the City to the 40-50 people in
attendance. He remarked citizens are fortunate to live in a city that is relatively peaceful. The last 10 days
in the county have been difficult with regard to gun violence. He supported a ban on crumb rubber but
more people are dying from the effects of gun violence than crumb rubber. There was a lot of passion in
the room in regard to crumb rubber; he wished for the same amount of passion across the county for
people dying due to the infatuation with firearms.
Councilmember Johnson thanked Hank Landau for organizing a peaceful march last night to address
sustainability and climate change; approximately 100 people marched to Centennial Plaza where Mayor
Earling gave a welcoming speech. This may be the first of an annual march; it was organized around the
talks for climate change in Paris. She attended the TEDx conference last month provided by Sno-Isle
Library; all the speakers are available on their website. She reported a draft Zero Waste Policy will be on
the agenda for Council consideration.
9. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION
PER RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)
This item was not needed.
10. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING IN
EXECUTIVE SESSION
This item was not needed.
11. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:59 p.m.