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Cmd091520EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL VIRTUAL ONLINE MEETING APPROVED MINUTES September 15, 2020 ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT Mike Nelson, Mayor Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Council President Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember Luke Distelhorst, Councilmember Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember Vivian Olson, Councilmember Susan Paine, Councilmember Laura Johnson, Councilmember 1. CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE STAFF PRESENT Patrick Doherty, Econ. Dev & Comm. Serv. Dir. Jeff Taraday, City Attorney Scott Passey, City Clerk The Edmonds City Council virtual online meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Nelson. The meeting was opened with the flag salute. 2. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Councilmember Buckshnis read the City Council Land Acknowledge Statement: "We acknowledge the original inhabitants of this place, the Sdohobsh (Snohomish) people and their successors the Tulalip Tribes, who since time immemorial have hunted, fished, gathered, and taken care of these lands. We respect their sovereignty, their right to self-determination, and we honor their sacred spiritual connection with the land and water." 3. ROLL CALL City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present, participating remotely. 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Mayor Nelson advised Agenda Item 9.1, Council Discussion of City Code Chapter 6.60, was not ready for Council review and he recommended it be removed from the agenda. COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PAINE, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA, MINUS ITEM 9.1. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 5. INTERVIEWS INTERVIEW CANDIDATE FOR THE CEMETERY BOARD Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 1 Mayor Nelson introduced Cemetery Board Candidate Ashley Robinson. Councilmembers introduced themselves. Ms. Robinson provided an opening comment: I moved to the Edmonds bowl about 2'/2 years ago and live not far from the cemetery. The cemetery is one of the places we love to walk through. At the start of the pandemic, they talked with their daughters about the Spanish Influenza of 1918 and visited the cemetery, looking for markers with deaths in 1918 and talked about what pandemics mean to the history of communities and societies. The cemetery is part of how they talk about things in their household. I'm a history major and worked for a history museum previously. As morbid as cemeteries are, I love them and they are a favorite place to visit when traveling such as Greyfriars Cemetery in Edinburgh. There are so many cool elements and you can learn so much about history and where we are today as a society. When I saw the opening on the Cemetery Board, I saw it as a great opportunity to give back to the community in a way that connects with me and my personal interests. The Council interviewed Ms. Robinson: • (Councilmember Buckshnis) Welcome and I agree, I always go to the cemetery when visiting somewhere new because it provides a wealth of information, especially in Europe and the old country. The Cemetery Sexton Cliff knows a great deal about the cemetery, including the location of many gravesites. Dale Hoggins retired from the Cemetery Board but is still around and you will also enjoy him. Glad you enjoy being part of the community and understand history; Edmonds has a rich history. ■ (Councilmember Paine) Thank you for volunteering. Benefits of the cemetery include the open space and environmental aspects. Would you be comfortable sharing thoughts about how to have a greener cemetery? This is actually an area of interest for myself. An online celebrity, Caitlin Doughty, has written a few books about green funeral services and how society talks about cremation, embalming and green burial. I find her viewpoints really interesting. I love the "Ask a Mnrtirinn " weh .caries and I've read a few of her hookc. I'm interested to find out more: there are some elements that make people uncomfortable because it feeds on society's superstitious viewpoints, but there is something natural about talking about green spaces in cemeteries. In Sacramento I lived next to the historical cemetery; I loved the oak trees, rose gardens and beautiful vegetation in the cemetery. It's an amazing legacy that anyone buried there is part of the flowers, trees and helping to give off oxygen in the air. As a pet owner of a recent deceased pet, I wondered how to make him part of the everyday experience of my backyard. I am absolutely open to green burial practices, alternative burial practices, and the history. • (Councilmember Olson) I was at Cemetery Board meeting when they were discussing the Memorial Day event that didn't happen live this year. I'm really excited about you as is the Board and pleased you applied; you bring a lot of enthusiasm. • (Councilmember Distelhorst) Thank you for volunteering time for one of City's boards. • (Councilmember L. Johnson) Thank you for volunteering. We also brought our kids to the cemetery shortly after the lockdown began because, 1) it was a safe space to distance, and 2) for the history. • (Councilmember K. Johnson) Sounds like this will be a very good fit between your interests and the needs on the Cemetery Board. I wish you much luck and enjoyment of everything about the cemetery. • Ms. Robinson thanked the Council for the opportunity. Although she has lived in Edmonds a short time, she truly loves being a member of the community and being part of the Cemetery Board is a great opportunity to start giving back to a town that gives them so much. She thanked the Council for their public service and for taking time to interview her. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 2 Council President Fraley-Monillas advised confirmation of the appointment to the Cemetery Board is Item 8.6 on the Consent Agenda. 2. INTERVIEW CANDIDATE FOR APPOINTMENT TO THE SISTER CITY Mayor Nelson introduced Sister City Commission Candidate Katy Renz. Councilmembers introduced themselves. The Council interviewed Ms. Renz: • (Councilmember Paine) What brought you to volunteer to go to Hekinan? I saw a flyer at school, I've been with the Edmonds School District for over 20 years, it looked very enticing so I inquired and last summer I was able to be a chaperone which was quite an honor and a wonderful experience. • (Councilmember Olson) I saw on your application that in addition to going to Hekinan, you were a host for one of the teachers who came from Hekinan as a chaperone. Yes, it wasn't planned, but things happen and I was happy to step in and experience hosting someone. It was a wonderful experience and made the whole thing complete. Councilmember Olson suggested she share a highlight during her closing comments. (Councilmember Distelhorst) Thank you for applying and for your prior involvement. What did you feel was the major difference between traveling to Japan versus hosting someone from Japan? Both were really enriching because when I was in Japan, I stayed in someone's home and when I hosted someone, they stayed in my home. We learned a lot more about each other's cultures and it was fun to show someone around my city. I also knew the teacher because when I was in Hekinan, the same teacher was with us the whole time so we already had a connection. • (Councilmember L. Johnson) Thank you for applying and what you are doing to teach our children in the Edmonds School District. • (Councilmember Buckshnis) I think it's wonderful you are applying because when the delegation spoke about their trip to Hekinan, they all really enjoyed it. The Sister City is a special connection with Hekinan. What was your favorite food in Hekinan? I already like sushi so it was comfortable to eat. Breakfast was always unique, a different kind of egg prepared in a different manner. I liked a lot of the food, a couple weren't my favorites, but I tried everything. • (Councilmember K. Johnson) How was the communication when you were in Japan and when they were here? There's a translator app that was very helpful. The family I stayed with spoke English pretty well, but when there was a problem, we talked to each other through the app. We spent hours doing that and it was very enjoyable. ■ (Council President Fraley-Monillas) I've been to Japan and one of the places I struggled the most was figuring out the airport where there was a lot in English. Did you experience that challenge? Everything went smoothly. One student left their passport somewhere so the student and I went back and found it. We followed people and worked as a group. Council President Fraley-Monillas said this was one of her favorite boards/commissions; the Sister City Commission keeps the two cities connected. She thanked Ms. Renz for volunteering. Ms. Renz explained the program allows students to exchange with another family and the family they stay with sends a student to stay with them. The delegation went on daily field trips to temples, castles, factories, museums, and aquariums. It was truly an experience because staying with a family allows you to be immersed in the culture. Although she has done a lot of traveling, there is nothing like living with a family and their culture. She thanked Edmonds for the opportunity and for creating the Sister City Commission. She looked forward to serving on the commission; she likes organizing things, showing people around and hosting. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 3 Council President Fraley-Monillas advised confirmation of the appointment to the Sister City Commission is Item 8.7on the Consent Agenda. 6. PRESENTATIONS SNOHOMISH HEALTH DISTRICT UPDATE Katie Curtis, Prevention Services Acting Director, Snohomish Health District, reviewed: ■ COVID Response o Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) ■ Situation continues to evolve, with guidance and information shifting accordingly ■ Encourage following www.snohd.orgJcoyid and social medial channels (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) for latest information o Graph of Number of COVID-19 Cases in Snohomish County by date for 1/19/2020-9/2/2020 Second peak of COVID infections in Snohomish County in 3uiy op Case counts continuing to drop o Graph of Snohomish County COVID-19 Case Rate per 100,000 for 2-week Rolling Periods 3/01 /20-08/29/20 o Snohomish County Snapshot & Weekly Reports a On website on Mondays o Key Priorities * Testing capacity ■ Case investigations & contact tracing ■ Long-term care facilities, first responders, schools, childcares and employer notifications ■ PPE availability and healthcare capacity ■ Mid- and long-range planning ■ Ongoing communications — Translated materials & expanding outreach In our Communities o Day -to -Day Work Continues 4,500+ inspections on restaurants, grocery stores, espresso stands, caterers and mobile food vehicles ■ 1,000+ complaints addressed (food, pools, septic and solid waste) ■ —500 permits for pools and spas that we routinely inspect ■ 200+ public and private schools with kitchen permits and required safety inspections ■ Suicide prevention campaign and messaging ■ Childcare health outreach Program provided 70 health and safety trainings to childcare providers in Edmonds ■ Assisted 9 health care clinics in Edmonds with the Vaccines for Children Program ■ Working with 15 active TB cases in Snohomish County o Resources for Local Businesses ■ Signs Please Wear a Cloth Face Cover Please Wash Your Hands — Spread Kindness, Not COVID-19. Please keep your distance o Outreach While Social Distancing ■ Working to develop more curriculum and toolkits that schools, childcares and community groups can use remotely ■ Exploring ways to engage with the community on important health topics & needs virtually Moving Forward Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 4 o Continuing Essential Work ■ Issuing birth and death certificates * Tracking and responding to other communicable diseases like tuberculosis, whooping cough & STDs. ■ Supporting children's health needs ■ Inspecting food establishments, pools & spas, etc. ■ Reviewing permit applications ■ Providing refugee health screenings * Responding to complaints and violations o Implementing Our Strategic Plan ■ Mission - Spearhead efforts to protect, promote and advance the collective health of our community. ■ Goals - Reduce the rate of communicable disease and other notifiable conditions - Prevent or reduce chronic diseases and injuries - Provide high -quality environmental health services - Improve maternal, child, and family health outcomes - Provide legally required vital records - Address ongoing, critical public health issues - Support increased access to medical, oral, and mental health care - Build a more sustainable organization o Monitoring Budgets & Projections * 2020 budget was balanced, with $16.75 million in revenues/expenditures. * Current budget includes 113 full-time equivalent positions. * Graph of Budget Projections 2021-2026 o Per Capital Contributions * Naloxone purchase & coordination for cities ■ Support general fund activities not covered by other funding: - Data & Reports Community Health Assessment & Improvement Plans - Healthy Communities Suicide Prevention Safe Routes to School/Complete Streets Healthy Housing Health Fairs & Community Events - Child Care Health Outreach Public Health Foundation o Working over the last year to research feasibility & models o Ad hoc committee met since April to provide recommendations to Board of Health. o Now recruiting foundation board members. o Purpose: To provide support for priorities identified in community health assessments, community health improvement plans, and/or emerging public health issues in Snohomish County Stay in Touch o Blog & Newsletters ■ Sign up for our blog, newsletters, alerts and more at 222.snohd.org/NotifyMe o Social Media ■ Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram For more information, please contact o Shawn Frederick, MBA Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 5 Administrative Officer 425.339.8687 SFrederick@snohd.org o Katie Curtis Prevention Services Acting Director 425.339.8711 KCurtis@snohd.org Councilmember Olson asked if information about the new Public Health Foundation was on the website. Ms. Curtis answered she believed there was and if not, she will send it. Councilmember Buckshnis welcomed Ms. Curtis providing an update on local information anytime because many people are asking questions. She asked if a spike in COVID cases was anticipated as a result of Labor Day, noting Washingtonians seemed to respect social distancing but that was not true nationwide. She also inquired about projections related to flu season. Ms. Curtis said there have been spikes 7-10 days following major holidays from people getting together. Snohomish Health District has 50 case investigators so there are enough to handle the workload, reaching out to people quickly. The District is also doing a lot of outreach to encourage people to get their flu shot to avoid people getting COVID and the flu or try to distinguish between the two because they have similar symptoms. The District is planning how to address the upcoming flu season and she hoped the flu did get a foothold with everyone wearing masks but that remains to be seen. Councilmember Buckshnis said the smoke in the air hasn't helped recently. She appreciated the information provided in the presentation in addition to COVID. Councilmember Distelhorst thanked Ms. Curtis for the work the Health District is doing. He asked if there would be increased testing capacity when kids return to school or would there be only one Health District testina facility. Ms. Curtis answered testing has been done once a week at the Lynnwood Food Bank and the District is looking at Snohomish County data to see if there are other areas in the county that are not being served either by primary healthcare providers or by the Health District. The Broadway location is somewhat central and has easy freeway access but the Health District is keeping an eye on the data and investigating other areas. Councilmember Paine thanked Ms. Curtis for addressing vaccinations, recalling she read in the national media that vaccination rates are down, due to a lot of factors. She recalled there was a significant whooping cough outbreak 1-2 years ago. She asked how the Health District will help with vaccinations for diseases that have devastating impacts to the community along with the pandemic. Ms. Curtis answered the Health District's vaccine program which includes a nurse, a vaccine coordinator and a supervisor, has been reaching out to healthcare providers as the data indicates a lot of children are behind on their vaccine schedules due to the difficulty getting into primary care providers earlier this year. The District is reaching out to healthcare providers to encourage them to bring kiddos in for vaccines and have been doing messaging to the community via social media as well as considering how to engage key stakeholders in the community to chatnpion vaccines addressing those who may have barriers to getting vaccines. Councilmember K. Johnson expressed concern with how the homeless population, especially in Edmonds, is remaining safe. She was told the Snohomish Health District had a major role in that and asked what the District was doing to help the homeless population. Ms. Curtis answered the District has been working with providers who do outreach to the homeless population through Snohomish County Human Services as well as providing isolation and quarantine at the Monroe fairgrounds where those potentially coming into a shelter situation experiencing symptoms can be housed until their COVID test results are back. There is a lot of work to be done in Snohomish County with regard to the homeless and Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 6 the District is working on ways to better engage service providers who are doing outreach to the homeless. Councilmember K. Johnson asked how the homeless did handwashing or personal protection devices, and whether the District was distributing materials to help them stay safe. Ms. Curtis answered the District has partnered with Snohomish County Human Services who has been doing the bulk of that work as well as trying to get cloth face coverings out to locations where the homeless have access to them; for example, Sno Isle Library and the Mukilteo Fire Department have begun handing out masks. She agreed handwashing was not an ideal situation. Council President Fraley-Monillas explained the Health District does not have enough staff to manage the huge homeless population within Snohomish County which is the reason they work through Snohomish County Human Services. Thousands of people are technically homeless within Snohomish County. She thanked Ms. Curtis for making this presentation, noting she is temporary in her position in Prevention Services but she has worked for the Health District for awhile and is a rising star. Council President Fraley-Monillas said she continues to forward emails to Councilmembers that she receives from the Snohomish Health District. The Health District does COVID testing but no longer does vaccinations. The Health District discontinued immunizations about three years ago and this year discontinued WIC and other programs due to funding. WIC is being handled by another organization. The Public Health Foundation is a fundraising board; the Health District needs to continue raising exceptional amounts of money to keep providing public health services in Snohomish County. Due to budget cuts across Snohomish County, there is not enough money to provide basic services which is the reason the Public Health Foundation was developed. Council President Fraley-Monillas explained the Health District currently purchases Naloxone and coordinates distribution to cities. Naloxone is available to Edmonds due to the per capita funding the City provides the Health District; cities that did not provide per capita funding pay for that service. She recalled Chief Lawless' comments last year about the need for those services as the police department did not have the staff to keep track of usage, expiration dates, stocking, etc. Each police vehicle carries two doses of Naloxone. She encouraged Councilmembers to reach out to her with any questions. She chairs the Health District's budget committee; the budget has been challenging and has required closing departments. She said the Health District was lucky to have Ms. Curtis. 2. PFD FINANCIAL PRESENTATION TO COUNCIL Joe McIalwain, Executive Director, Edmonds Public Facilities District/Edmonds Center for the Arts, expressed his appreciation for the City's support. He introduced the Edmonds Public Facilities District Board President David Brewster and Operations Director Matt Keller. Mr. McIalwain reviewed "Finding Our Light": ■ Mission o To celebrate the performing arts, strengthen and inspire our community, and steward the development and creative use of the ECA Campus. ■ Purpose o Present a diverse mix of music, dance, theatre, comedy and special attractions from around the world. o Serve as a host for performances and events produced by a wide range of local and regional organizations. o Inspire people of all ages and abilities through our extensive education and outreach programming (on site and throughout the community). Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 7 o Steward the health and creative use of our historic facilities. o Generate tourism and economic activity for the City of Edmonds and Snohomish County. Programs: Presented Artists Aaron Neville Great Big Sea Patti LuPone Al Jarreau Indigo Girls Paula Cole Al Stewart Jeff Bridges & The Abiders Paula Poundstone An eli ue Kid'o Jesse Cook Pilobolus Arlo Guthrie Joan Armatradin Pink Martini Arturo Sandoval Joan Osborne Poncho Sanchez BiE Bad Voodoo Daddy Johnny Cle 99 Preservation Hall Jazz Band Blind Boys of Alabama Keb' Mo' Randy Newman Bruce Hornsby Ladysmith Black Mambazo Richard Thompson Buddy Guy Lila Downs Ricky Skaggs Chris Thile Lily Tomlin R;ta Moreno Christopher Cross Los Lobos Roger McGuinn Clint Black Lyle Lovett & John Hiatt Roseanne Cash Colin Hay Mandy Patinkin Rufus Wainwright Cowboy Junkies Manhattan Transfer Sergio Mendez Dianne Reeves Marc Cohn Shawn Colvin Don McLean Martin Sexton Smothers Brothers Dr. John Mary Chapin Carpenter Ta' Mahal Ed Asner Mavericks The Tenors Four Tops Michael Feinstein Travis Tritt Gaelic Storm Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Willie K 0 PragrBwms: Hosted Events Auino Ontions Gnthard Raclin Theatre, Babak Kivavchi GPA Live Seattle Repertory Jazz Orch. Ballyhoo Theatre Halau Hula O' Moani Mokihana Shoreline Young Life Barclay Shelton Dance Islamic Center of Puget Sound Cascade Symphony Orchestra KNKX Radio Sno Isle Libraries TEDx Cedar Creek Mernoa Care La Jolla Booking A ency Sno King Community Chorale Club Pro BA Lift Every Voice Foundation Sno King Music Educators Assoc. Comm. Christian Fellowship Lynnwood High School Sno Kin Youth Club DeMiero Jazz Festival Mo' an Nazariyan Steenman Associates DSA Fine Art & Jewelry Morning Islands LLC Stella Maris Academy Edmonds Chamber of Comm. Northsound Church Stroller Strides Edmonds Comm. College Northwest Jr. Pipe Band Terrace Park School PTA Edmonds Jazz Connection Olympic Ballet School — - -- University Mechanical Contractors Edmonds Senior Center Olympic Ballet Theatre Vladimir Chernov Edmonds Co Op Preschool PIMA Medical institute Voice Art Group Edmonds H.S. Class of 1957 Premera Blue Cross WA Council for the Blind Elks Club Puget Sound Partnership Washin ton School of Dance Everett Chorale Association Rick Steves' Europe WBAC Grand Prix Exem Entertainment Russian American Entertainment Group Windermere Real Estate Edmonds • Programs: Education and Outreach Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 8 o "Arts for Everyone", KIDSTOCK!, Student Matinees, Artists in Schools, Teacher Workshops, Dementia Inclusive Programs: Film Presentations, Improvisational Theatre, "Sing Along" Outreach, Summer Camps, Teen Tix Impact 0 600+ theatre events, meetings, workshops and special events each year 0 85,000 people served annually ■ 64% come from outside of Edmonds 0 10,000 Students and Seniors benefit from ECA Outreach Programs annually 0 150+ volunteers, $300,000 gift of time each year o QUALITY OF LIFE o Arts & Culture Economic Impact Study - 2017 J1 $7.5 million impact What Now? Impact of COVID-19 on ECA and the Arts & Entertainment Industry o What is NOT happening now? ■ 600+ theatre events, meetings, workshops and special events each year ■ 85,000 people served annually a 64% come from outside of Edmonds ■ 10,000 Students and Seniors benefit from ECA Outreach Programs annually ■ 150+ volunteers, $300,000 gift of time each year ■ QUALITY OF LIFE Impact on ECA (to date) 0 16 Team Members Laid Off in March — Production, Facilities, Box Office, Event Management. 0 13 Team Members Working Half -Time (Shared Work Program) as of May 16. o Estimated Losses to Date: $1.25 Million o Canceled/Postponed Presentations: 25 to date. o Canceled/Postponed Rental Events: 90+ to date. o Also Canceled Many Education and Outreach Programs Impact on the Industry o The arts contribute $763.6 Billion to the US Economy annually, which is 4.2% of GDP. 0 5 Million jobs have been lost nationwide as a result of the closure of arts organizations and entertainment venues. o A complete reshuffling of the industry is underway the relentless uncertainty of the timing and the conditions under which reopening might occur causes more economic damage each day, including the permanent closure of venues nationwide. What's Next? What is the ECA and the Industry doing to regroup and reimagine? o Ours was one of the first industries to close. And ours will be one of the last industries to reopen. o The United States Government has not provided emergency relief specific to the arts and entertainment industry, and it is unlikely such relief will come. o Artists, Agents, Peer Organizations — Working together to determine the best ways to reopen and re-engage with our audiences while following health guidelines. o Recent survey of ticket buyers to performing arts events suggests: ■ Just 50% of pre -pandemic attendees will feel safe to return to performing arts events within the first year after a vaccine is identified and dispersed. ■ 80% will feel safe to return by the end of year 2. ■ 100% will feel safe to return by the end of year 3. R What's Next for ECA? o Facility Cleaning, Reconfiguration, Traffic Flow o Options for Live Performance (pre Phase 4): ■ If allowed — Two Shows in One Night Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 9 ■ If allowed — Live Streaming (legal and financial challenges) o Outdoor Events (logistical and financial challenges) o New and Reimagined Programs —"Window to the Arts, Kidstock!, others What's Next for ECA? o Bridge the Gap — (the "Gap" Remains Undefined) o Keep the Team Together o Continue Long -Range Planning o Stay Nimble and Creative o Stay Communicative and Relevant to Our Audiences and Supporters EPFD Board President Brewster reviewed: Bright Spots for ECA o Renewed support from the City of Edmonds in 2020 has proven to be even more critical than ever. THANK YOU! o Contributed revenue overall remains strong, and is currently the lifeline for our organization • Center Stage in May exceeded fundraising goal • ECA Gala and Auction — FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 — Online — www,ec4arts.ors� Mr. Keller reviewed: Financial Update — Operations and Capital o July 2020 Financial Report — Overview • 30% drop in revenue compared to prior year • Corresponding 28% drop in expenses • 10% above last year in contributed revenue • Capital investments to facility ■ Better than anticipated Tier 1 and 2 funds than I- ililpal.L LV U11 direct J0.1GJ Lail 1GUa LG Mall a11L1c1paLCU • Final net position is approximately $130,000 ahead of last year Councilmember Buckshnis said bravo, she was expecting more doom and gloom. She asked why Tier 1 and 2 were not impacted. Mr. Keller answered Tier 1 is locked in by contract, guaranteed throughout the life of the tax revenue; Tier 2 is tied to the prior year's performance. This year has not been impacted and lie anticipated the impact next year will not be as great as initially thought in March/April. That is a silver lining and there is hope. Councilmember Buckshnis commented there is hope because he is there and has done a great job. Councilmember Buckshnis she asked if the reason July looked less prosperous was due to the season which typically starts in September. Mr. Keller explained the season is typically split between two fiscal years. The 2019-2020 season began in September 2019 and ended this summer; the 2020-2021 begins in September 2020. There is typically a drop in revenue in the summer; this year was an anomaly due to the pandemic. Councilmember Buckshnis asked -if the EPFD anticipated borrowing from the City for bond payments. Mr. Keller answered the goal is not to, and the EPFD is looking at private partnerships to bridge the gap until patrons can come to the theater, but it would not be completely out of the realm of possibility. He recalled the EPFD was able to make payments on the loan for the last two years and $125,000 was budgeted this year, but he anticipated that would not happen in 2020. Councilmember Buckshnis commented we're all in this together; the entertainment venues are having a tough time. She commended the EPFD on the audit. Mr. Keller thanked staff and the boards, noting staff is dedicated and has been dealing with a situation that is not easy, working 20 hours a week. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 10 Mr. Keller reported 2019 represented the second year in a row of positive net growth between operations and non -operating. Contributed revenue was higher than budgeted, there was strong performance revenue and the rental and hosting department brought in great numbers. Overall there was nearly $200,000 in capital investment and great year for tax revenue. Although 2020 will be a particularly difficult year, the EPFD Board and staff are happy to show the organization was moving in the right direction in 2018 and 2019 and once the facility reopens, that will again be the focus. Council President Fraley-Monillas, Council liaison to the EPFD, thanked Mr. McIalwain, Mr. Brewster and Mr. Keller for all their work. She found the accountability to ensure the future to be great. The interest from the EPFD board members is phenomenal along with the work they do to figure out a way to move forward. She appreciated the EPFD's open books and willingness to explain. She agreed with Councilmember Buckshnis about the City and the EPFD working together. Councilmember L. Johnson thanked Mr. McIalwain, Mr. Brewster and Mr. Keller for keeping it real, noting it was hard to hear but refreshing they were proceeding realistically while maintaining a positive attitude for the future. Performing arts is central to her children's education and they miss it and will be celebrating when they can return to enjoying it live and being a part of it on stage. Councilmember Paine looked forward to being able to hear live music as it is an essential service. Art is the air we breathe and everyone in the arts community loves the ECA. She recognized the wonderful ECA volunteers and encouraged the ECA to continue the magic they put together. Councilmember K. Johnson encouraged everyone associated with the ECA to participate in the 4"' Avenue Cultural Corridor survey that is available now. It is an important aspect of the ECA's front yard and the City would like to have more people involved in the survey. She encouraged them to spread the word to the ECA community. Councilmember Buckshms advised the survey closed, but a decision was made to extend it. She expressed appreciation for the complete packet as many people do not know the history. The ECA was having a great year and now is back in the trenches again. The history shows the ECA has perseverance. Mr. McIalwain expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet with the Council. It has been a journey for many years; the ECA was hitting its stride and will do it again. He referred to the 2008 downturn and now this, but the ECA is still here and will be back the minute it's allowed. 7. AUDIENCE COMMENTS(Itttns:I1700m.ttsls14257752:525} Mayor Nelson invited participants and described the procedures for audience comments Greg Lange, Edmonds, Co -Chairman, Sister City Commission, commented on Katy Renz's nomination as a Sister City Commissioner. He has had the pleasure to known her in multitude of ways, first meeting her through a mutual friend where he learned she was also a teacher at Maplewood K-8 in the Edmonds School District. He worked at Maplewood for a few years after moving to Edmonds and has many good acquaintances who work there who let him know what a great teacher she is. When she applied to be a chaperone for the Sister City exchange program, he was reminded how well she works with teens. She proved to be an excellent chaperone during the 2019 exchange program, both in Hekinan and in Edmonds. During his own ambassadorial visit to Hekinan this past February, her name was often mentioned in the way well -respected people are mentioned in Japan. Friends in Hekinan eagerly looked forward to her returning someday. Due to her commitment as a chaperone and her continued interest in remaining connected to the Sister City Program, he urged the Council to accept his endorsement to appoint Katy Renz as a commissioner on the Edmonds Sister City Commission. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 11 (Written comments submitted to PublicComment@Edmondswa.gov are attached.) 8. APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PAINE, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. Councilmember K. Johnson requested Item 8.5 be removed for discussion. COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO APPROVE THE REMAINDER OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING NO. The agenda items approved are as follows: 1. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL BUDGET RETREAT MINUTES OF JULY 29, 2020 2. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 8, 2020 3. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 8, 2020 4. APPROVAL OF CLAIM, PAYROLL AND BENEFIT CHECKS, DIRECT DEPOSIT AND WIRE PAYMENTS 5. AMENDMENT OF EDMONDS CARES FUND ORDINANCE 6. CEMETERY BOARD CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENT 7. CONFIRM APPOINTMENT OF CANDIDATE TO THE SISTER CITY COMMISSION 9. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT 5. AMENDMENT OF EDMONDS CARES FUND ORDINANCE (previously Consent Agenda Item 8.5 Councilmember K. Johnson recalled last week she asked about mailing a postcard and not heard whether that was something the City could do and how much it would cost. It is important that as many people in need receive the funds rather than just drawing down the account and giving more funds to people who have already applied. She asked how much it cost to mail out postcards about the Waterfront Connector. Economic Development/Community Services Director Patrick Doherty said he did not know. Since last week, staff had a discussion with the partners and agreed to try things that would have a higher efficacy in reaching people in need. There was a substantial increase in outreach to organizations that serve Edmonds such as veterans, disabled, and senior organizations and each agency the City has contract with has a network of agencies they work with. Mr. Doherty explained approximately 190 letters were mailed yesterday to the owners/managers of all -the apartment buildings in Edmonds. Most people in single family houses in Edmonds are likely above the income eligibility criterion. The goal was to tap into locations where the population would be most likely to meet income requirements. There are already more applications being submitted as a result of the outreach. He would like to try that first and if there is a substantial increase, that will be an indication of its effectiveness before doing a mailing to all City residents, recognizing that a great many of them will be unable to take advantage of the funding opportunity. Councilmember K. Johnson encouraged staff and the partners to do the outreach and to find ways to communicate the availability of the funds, perhaps My Edmonds News, the Edmonds Beacon, etc. Mr. Doherty agreed. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 12 Councilmember K. Johnson said some people may have a need but are not aware of the program. Mr. Doherty said since school just started, information is being provided to families, flyers are being distributed at the foodbank and other places where information can be provided, etc. He agreed the traditional media and/or social media does not reach everyone. The letter to apartment owner/managers was also emailed to Councilmembers and he suggested they forward the flyer to any networks they were involved with. COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DISTELHORST, TO APPROVE AMENDMENT OF EDMONDS CARES FUND ORDINANCE. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 10. MAYOR'S COMMENTS Mayor Nelson advised registration opened today for the Learning Enhancement & Activities Program (LEAP) for 2" d — 6"' graders, a childcare program the City is offering to provide academic support as well as other opportunities during distance learning. Scholarships are available for those who qualify, particularly those on reduced or free lunches. Registration information is available on the City's website on the Parks webpage. Mayor Nelson said after learning of limited social distancing and mask -wearing on the fishing pier, staff increased communications on social media and described what could happen if that behavior did not approve. As a result, there has been excellent compliance, more people practicing social distancing and wearing masks and, although not official, it appears the fishing pier will not need to be closed. 11. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Olson referred to the focus on mental health in September and said the smoke this week has added another layer of heaviness to what everyone is feeling. She reminded people to "fill their cup," because they cannot give when they are empty. Everyone differs in what fills them; do whatever you need to do to fill your cup such as exercise especially yoga, meditation, being in nature, color really helps. Gardens have added color during the summer months but going forward people may need to fake it by adding art to their gardens to add color. Garden Gear, Bountiful Home, Ace Hardware, C'est la Vie and others are good local places for garden art. Another good way is light such as lighting available for people with a seasonal light disorder. Scents are another way to lift one's mood such as candles, soap, lavender. Councilmember Olson encouraged people to plan a break from alcohol if they have been drinking a little more under the current circumstances or relying on other substances such as marijuana. As vaping has a bad connection for COVID, she encouraged anyone who is vaping to discontinue it completely. There has never been a greater level of need in the community. As seen in the ECA's presentation, certain industries had a lot of layoffs and many people are struggling. She suggested that once your own cup is filled, give your time, energy, money, grace and care whenever possible. Councilmember Paine suggested the word of the day be volunteerism. She appreciated the many people in and around Edmonds who are generous with their time and talent. Volunteering is another way to fill your cup and it helps the community. Councilmember K. Johnson pointed out tonight was a short meeting and recalling City Clerk Scott Passey's presentation about Council procedures in March, suggested it was time to review those procedures so we can "get our house in order." Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 13 Councilmember Buckshnis agreed with filling your cup via volunteering. She said Mayor Nelson's statement about the dog park resulted in people putting their masks on. Councilmember Buckshnis advised tomorrow's Economic Development Commission retreat tomorrow at 4 p.m. will be available online. She forwarded an email from a citizen regarding the U.S. District Court decision in favor of the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts, regarding the 5G cells and their proliferation. There is a Children's Defense Fund due to concern with 5G wireless technology. She suggested scheduling an update from City Attorney Jeff Taraday, recalling he had someone following this case. She has read the case and it is landmark for Edmonds. She recalled the Council did a resolution regarding health benefits and said new Councilmembers should be informed about the 5G rollout. Councilmember Buckshnis commented it was a sports trifecta this weekend, the NFL started, the NHL is in Stanley Cup finals and the Storm finished second in the regular season and start the championship next Sunday. Watching sports on TV with piped in fan noise is the new normal, but it was great to have them back and they fill her cup a lot. Councilmember L. Johnson reported the smoke will continue through at least Friday. She learned about a hack a number of people are using as an air purifier: combine a box fan with a 20x20 filter with a MERV rating of 13 or more which removes 90% of PM2.5 (smoke) and helps with indoor air quality. She recommended not burning candles or using artificial scents, keeping cooking with a gas stove to a minimum to help with indoor air quality, not vacuuming because it stirs up the dust, and keeping windows shut to keep smoke out and keep the indoor air quality as good as possible, especially for families with allergies and asthma. She reminded everyone to wear their mask and keep safe. Council President Fraley-Monillas said Go Seahawks. She agreed with Councilmember K. Johnson that it would have been nice to have the procedures suggested by Mr. Passey on the agenda. The list of future and schedule aaenda items is being condensed and nrioritized along with other items requested by the Council. Tonight's Council meeting would not have been as short if the City Code Chapter 6.60 had not been removed. Council President Fraley-Monillas reported she appointed a committee to work on the code of conduct. She was hopeful they will return with a recommendation for a public discussion and Council input. She has requested the committee complete the code within 4-6 weeks. Council President Fraley-Monillas read the following statement: "This in regard to a few citizens' questions in the last week regarding the executive session held on September 8"'. First and foremost, I want to indicate that this complaint was not about staff working for the City of Edmonds. The executive session was requested from one Councilmember regarding a formal complaint of a senior Councilmember. The session was held on September 8"'. The Councilmember filing the complaint stated three issues, there was a violation of the current code of conduct, our current code of ethics and a violation of the Robert's Rules of Order. Council met in executive session and the complaining Councilmember indicated she had earlier had an hour discussion with the senior Councilmember and that an apology in executive session was what the complaining Councilmember wanted. Due to time constraints, we couldn't finish the discussion. Subsequently, the complaining Councilmember decided to withdraw the complaint. This is only the second time in over ten years that I've been on the Council that a Councilmember has brought a complaint forward to the full Council about a Councilmember. The other complaint ended in a censure of a sitting City Councilmember. Executive sessions should never be used for this type of personal issues or grievances. First, the complaint was never decided by the full Council for validity, nor was it brought into the public eye. The Council was not allowed the ability to publicly discuss the merits Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 14 of these three complaints or not. When something in brought to executive session, the Council then owns the product, but the most disturbing part of this whole incident is the lack of transparency of the issue. That Coun.cilmember felt the situation was serious enough to file a legitimate complaint, but after speaking to the senior Councilrnember before the executive session, decided that there wasn't a complaint beyond an isolated apology. Transparency is an issue we hear over and over again from our citizens. 1. hope this incident has taught a lesson regarding transparency to the public when it comes to the Council. We are held, and should be held, to a much higher level of transparency as Councilnembers." Councilmember Distelborst reminded of the free "Question, .Persuade, Refer" suicide prevention training by Wendy Burchill, Snohomish Health District on Thursday at 7 p,m. the He pointed out people learn how to do CPR or know the acronym FAST to recognize someone having a stroke but what do you do when someone is having a mental health or suicidal crisis? This training teaches you how to ask cluestions, start a conversation and persuade someone to stay alive and refer the individual to professional resources. It is great training for parents and younger people concerned about their parents and grandparents, Further information and links to the event are available on WeCare.Fdmondswa.gov. Mayor Nelson displayed his "You Are Not Alone" pin. 12. ADJOURN With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 8:47 p.m. MICHAEL NELSON, MAYOR 5PASSEY,"CITY LE Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Pagte 15 Public Comment for 9/15/20 Council Meeting: From: Emily Scott Sent: Tuesday, September 15, 2020 10:27 AM To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov> Subject: Edmonds Scarecrow Festival - Covid Edition Dear Edmonds Councilmembers, Mayor, Staff, and fellow residents, The Edmonds Historical Museum is excited to announce the 8t" Annual Edmonds Scarecrow Festival! This free, fun, and family -friendly event will add a bit of whimsy and normalcy during the 2020 Fall season. We encourage residents and businesses to craft a homemade scarecrow to display during September and October. Submit a photograph and category of your scarecrow to the Edmonds Historical Museum to be entered in the contest! Submit your scarecrow entry from now until Oct. 15 (6pm). Vote for scarecrows between Oct. 16 and Nov. 1St. Winners will be announced Monday, Nov. 2"d More information, registration, and voting is located on The Scarecrow Festival webpage at: https:/Ihistoricedmonds.or annual -scarecrow -festival RELEASE THE SCARECROWS! Cheers, Emily Scott From: Finis Tupper Sent: Saturday, September 12, 2020 7:55 PM To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov> Cc: Council <Council@edmondswa.gov> Subject: Emergency Manager Dear Councilmembers; As you discuss changes to our city laws, please be mindful of the concept of government separation of powers and duty place on you to represent the citizens. One point I would make is take the City Attorney of the discussion. He has taken the city council and the citizens out of the process in all recent decisions such as closing Sunset Ave., closing Main St., allowing plastic bags, etc. etc. You serve for the citizens benefit and not the Mayor and city employees. The opinions of taxpayers should be your primary concern. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 16 Mr. Taraday has throw the kCity Council and the citizens under the bus. Your opinions and the citizens opinions serve no purpose in any discussion or decision it is only the City Attorney's argument that matters. You are given only his choices and pretty much hamstring to consider nothing else. On a lighter note, who is the Emergency Manager? When was this person hired? How much does the Emergency Manager make? Is this position in the 2020 Budget? Really HR participated in these drafting these code changes? God Bless us for the failures of city staff are just amazing. Finis Tupper From: Ken Reidy Sent: Saturday, September 12, 2020 11:42 AM To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>; Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov> Cc: Council <Council@edmondswa.gov>; Nelson, Michael <Michael.Nelson@edmondswa.gov>; Judge, Maureen <Maureen.Judge@edmondswa.gov>; Passey, Scott <Scott.Passey@edmondswa.gov>; Neill Hoyson, Jessica <Jessica. Neil IHoyson@edmondswa.gov>; Taraday, Jeff <jeff@lighthouselawgroup.com> Subject: Public Comments for September 15, 2020 City Council meeting I do not have time to reduce my public comments to 450 words. I've already wasted tons of time over the last few weeks trying to meet Council's arbitrary 450-word limit for written comments. I could see such a requirement if Edmonds Citv Government was willine to facilitate the abilitv of the nuhlic to hear or see written comments at the same time people are attending the public meeting — but the City has chosen to not provide for such. If you want to waste more time of a citizen willing to provide you public comment - I'll simply find another citizen to submit half of the following comments: City Council Ratification of a Mayor's Proclamation of Emergency can: 1) further ensure legal immunities for emergency actions taken by the City; 2) facilitate requests by the City for State and Federal assistance under the State and Federal Disaster Assistance Programs; 3) authorize the Mayor to take additional preventive measures necessary to protect and preserve public health and safety; and 4) establish a time frame for the duration of the Proclamation while retaining the policy making authority to extend or shorten the duration of the authorities granted under the Proclamation if necessary. The City Council's ratification process also affords policy makers the opportunity to modify any aspect of the Mayor's Proclamation of Emergency. Adoption of a Resolution of Ratification provides great documentation of the policy adopted. When done as soon as practical, Ratification keeps the local emergency proclamation in effect which allows the City to procure services and supplies immediately necessary and to make and issue orders and Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 17 regulations on matters necessary for the protection of health and life safety. The Resolution of Ratification can promote RCW compliance. This action may also promote the opportunity for potential cost recovery by the City for expenses incurred in this emergency. The City Council Agenda Packet for 9/15/2020 includes Council discussion of City Code Chapter 6.60. The agenda packet discloses that "Input was also sough(t) from... City Attorney Jeff Taraday". The agenda packet also states that: "Once the initial draft of the update was complete, Councilmember Paine removed herself from the process to allow the administration to complete the update as this was addressing an administrative function. Updating our policies is not an administrative function! As I've requested before, please minimize to the greatest extent possible the City Attorney's involvement in the Legislative Process. Citizens do not elect a City Attorney to make policy. If City Council wants to include the City Attorney in the Legislative Process, perhaps we should make the City Attorney position an elected office where citizens know when they vote that the City Attorney will play a role in the Legislative Process. Per City Attorney Jeff Taraday at the 1:59:05 mark of the May 5, 2020 City Council meeting: "The Proclamation is just saying there's an emergency." Please see the March 5th Proclamation. It says much more that "there's an emergency". Please pay attention to Section 3 which addresses City Code, RCW's, competitive bidding, public notice and contracting: SECTION 3 In order to prepare for, prevent, and respond to this emergency, pursuant to chapter 6.601 CC and RCW 38.52.070(2), the requirements of competitive bidding and public notice arc hereby waived with reference to any contract relating to the city's tease or purchase of supplies, equipment, personal services, or public works as defined by RCW 39,04 10, or to ;any contract for the selection and award of professional and/or technical consultant contracts. Each city department director is hereby authorized to exercise the powers vested in this proclamation in light of the demands of a dangerous and escalating emergency situation without regard to time consuming pro-cedures and formalities otherwise normally prescribed by law (excepting mandatory constitutional requirements). Ratification of a Proclamation of Emergency by City Council is hardly process for the sake of process. It is hardly a little procedural thing. I find it outrageous that the City Attorney would suggest that such an important Council responsibility is merely a little procedural thing. Incredible. For one thing, the Ratification step is Council's opportunity to modify the Proclamation of Emergency. I previously provided Edmonds City Council examples of two other City Councils, Seattle and Anacortes, modifying their Mayor's recent Proclamation of Emergency. I encourage Edmonds City Council to research what the Seattle and Aberdeen City Councils decided they needed to modify in each City's Proclamation of Emergency. My opinion is that the idea that in Edmonds only Orders need to be ratified is a very incomplete idea. Is Mr. Taraday attempting to make it more difficult for Council to play its very important role related to Proclamations of Emergency? In my opinion, reducing Council's role seems to be a theme in 2020. Please appreciate that our CEMP clearly states that: The Proclamation of Local Emergency is made by the Office of the Mayor and is the legal method which authorizes the use of extraordinary measures to accomplish tasks associated with disaster response. The proclamation is normally a prerequisite to state and federal disaster assistance. The Proclamation of Local Emergency must be ratified by the City Council as soon as practical following the emergency. Again, ratification of a Proclamation of Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 18 Emergency by City Council is hardly process for the sake of process. Furthermore, the act of resolving via Resolution provides solid documentation and evidence that City Council agrees with and supports the Proclamation of Emergency. Again, please minimize to the greatest extent possible the City Attorney's involvement in the Legislative Process. He has not been elected by your constituents to play such a large role in the legislative process. For example, Councilmember Paine says that she and Mr. Taraday went back and forth on this issue. Why didn't the citizens have a seat at that table? The Proclamation of Emergency issued by Mayor Mike Nelson said far more than "There's an Emergency", full stop, nothing more than that. The Proclamation directs action and waives competitive bidding and public notice requirements. Please request Mr. Taraday make full public disclosure as to why he represented otherwise to City Council. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 15, 2020 Page 19