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03/24/2009 City CouncilMarch 24, 2009 Following a Special Meeting at 6:30 p.m. for an Executive session regarding pending or threatened litigation, the Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:33 p.m. by Mayor Haakenson in the Council Chambers, 250 5"' Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute. ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT Gary Haakenson, Mayor D. J. Wilson, Council President Michael Plunkett, Councilmember Peggy Pritchard Olson, Councilmember Steve Bernheim, Councilmember Dave Orvis, Councilmember Ron Wambolt, Councilmember Strom Peterson, Councilmember ALSO PRESENT Grace Guenther, Student Representative 1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA STAFF PRESENT Tom Tomberg, Fire Chief Jim Lawless, Assistant Police Chief Duane Bowman, Development Services Director Stephen Clifton, Community Services /Economic Development Director Brian McIntosh, Parks & Recreation Director Noel Miller, Public Works Director Kathleen Junglov, Finance Director Debi Humann, Human Resources Director Frances Chapin, Cultural Services Manager Rob English, City Engineer Linda Hynd, Deputy City Clerk Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst. Jeannie Dines, Recorder COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT WILSON, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS Mayor Haakenson advised Item H (Ordinance amending Edmonds Community Development Code Chapter 20 Relating to Establishing Permit Types, Process Requirements, Notice Requirements, Consistency with SEPA, Open Record Hearing Procedures, Closed Record Appeals, and Development Agreements) had been removed from the Consent Agenda and would be rescheduled. COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows: A. ROLL CALL B. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF MARCH 17, 2009 C. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #110512 THROUGH #110671 FOR $335,287.46 DATED MARCH 19, 2009. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSIT AND CHECKS #47923 THROUGH #47957 FOR THE PAY PERIOD MARCH 1, THROUGH MARCH 15, 2009 FOR $854,475.14. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 1 D. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MURRAY, SMITH AND ASSOCIATES, INC. FOR UPDATING THE CITY'S WATER SYSTEM COMPREHENSIVE PLAN. E. ORDINANCE NO. 3732 — AUTHORIZATION TO AMEND SECTION 2 OF ORDINANCE NO. 3621 TO ADMINISTRATIVELY APPROVE UP TO FIVE SITES TO T- MOBILE WEST CORPORATION THROUGH THE GRANT OF A CONSTRUCTION RIGHT OF WAY USE PERMIT. F. ORDINANCE NO. 3730 — ADOPTING WAC 51 -1.6 -030 BUILDING CODE EXEMPTION PROVISIONS FOR EMERGENCY SHELTERS FOR THE HOMELESS. G. ORDINANCE NO. 3731 — AMENDING EDMONDS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CODE CHAPTER 17.60, PROPERTY PERFORMANCE STANDARDS. 3. PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF EARTH HOUR, SATURDAY, MARCH 28,8:30-9:30 P.M. Mayor Haakenson read a proclamation declaring March 28 from 8:30 — 9:30 p.m. as Earth Hour in Edmonds and urged all citizens to turn out their lights to significantly reduce energy consumption and positively affect the fight against global warming. Together, by going darker for one hour, help create a better future. The Mayor's Climate Protection Committee and Sustainable Edmonds will host a National Conversation on Climate Action for all citizens interested in learning how they can help inspire local climate action on April 22 at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. Mayor Haakenson observed tonight was Development Services Director Duane Bowman's last Council meeting before he retires. He thanked Mr. Bowman for his service to the community over the past 18 years, recognizing the hard work he has done, his professionalism and his sense of humor. 4. PUBLIC COMMENT WILL BE RECEIVED REGARDING PROGRAMMATIC REDUCTIONS TO THE 2009 -2010 BUDGET. Council President Wilson explained following public comment, the Council would consider a resolution that affirmed the cuts Mayor Haakenson announced ten days ago. He recalled during the 2009/2010 budget process, the Council discussed the closure of Yost Pool due to the budget shortfall. In an effort to address the shortfall, the Council raised taxes everywhere possible, made some cuts and the result was a 2 -year budget with a $300,000 surplus. Between November 2008 and now, the $300,000 surplus has become a $1.1 million deficit for 2009. If the Council did nothing, the City would have an ending cash balance for 2009 of only $250,000, when standards prefer at least $3 million or 10% of the total budget. He found an ending cash balance of $250,000 unacceptable. Sales tax forecasts continue to deteriorate and he anticipated when staff provides the next projection, the forecast will need to be readjusted, increasing the $1.1 million deficit further. As a result, Mayor Haakenson took action to make programmatic cuts in his capacity as the City Executive. He also planned to make staffing cuts in the future. Council President Wilson urged the public to keep in mind the resolution would affirm the cuts Mayor Haakenson made; however, regardless of the Council's action /inaction on the resolution, the cuts would remain in place. He acknowledged the City had a compact with citizens to keep Yost Pool, keep everyone safe in their homes via fire and police services, not go bankrupt, keeping the lights on and doors open at City Hall, as well as provide basic city services. Council President Wilson commented he and other Councilmembers had met with community members to discuss Yost Pool and creative financing ideas. The resolution was an opportunity for the Council to Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 2 stand with Mayor Haakenson to affirm the cuts he made. He reiterated the City was in a dire financial situation and action /inaction on the resolution would not open Yost Pool this summer. He urged citizens to get creative with their ideas. Nancy Hopper, Edmonds, explained she was leading the Concerned Citizens for Yost Pool group. She acknowledged Yost Pool users were emotional during the budget process when they urged the Council to keep the pool open but were interested in developing a creative solution. She explained 195 kids participated on Yost Pool swim team last summer, 450 passes were sold, over 700 children participated in swim lessons, 19,500 individuals used the pool and 40,000 swims were purchased, summarizing Yost Pool serves a huge number of people. She distributed a spreadsheet outlining their solution to bring pool rates up to market. She explained the pool fees have been below market for many years and Yost Pool is a gem that warrants higher rates. Increasing Yost Pool to the rates charged by Mountlake Terrace would generate $32,000 and improved staffing suggested by Parks staff could save $14,000. She concluded the citizens of Edmonds support the pool and urge the City's leaders to support the pool and remove it from the list of cuts. Scott Hopper, Edmonds, commented Yost Pool users were tired of hearing no and suggested the resolution be changed to keep Yost Pool open this summer, unless Councilmembers were unwilling to listen to the community. He questioned why a facility where 40,000 swims were purchased and that served 19,500 individual users would be targeted out of all the Parks programs to be cut, unless it was being used as a pawn as support for the levy. He referred to his wife's proposal to generate more revenue for Yost Pool by increasing prices to those charged by other communities, charging non - residents more and eliminating excess labor. He questioned the thinking that Yost Pool should be revenue neutral when other programs were not and suggested funding for the Sister City program is eliminated instead. He questioned the cost to close and mothball the pool, lost revenue to area businesses, and what kids would do without swimming as a recreational outlet. He anticipated without the pool there would be more vandalism and graffiti this summer. He suggested another method of increasing revenue would be to increase all park program registration fees by $1 - $5. He urged the Council to consider ways to increase revenues rather than making cuts in programming. Mitchell Stern, Edmonds, commented nearly 20% of U.S. children aged 6 -11 years were overweight and 37% were at risk of becoming overweight. An estimated 7% of overweight children become obese adults who are at future risk of developing chronic disease. More babies were born in the U.S. in 2007 than any other year in history, teen pregnancies were up for the second year, there is alcohol and drug abuse among teens and gang - related activities are infiltrating society. He anticipated if Yost Pool closed and kids were idle, they would get fat, pregnant, experiment with drugs and alcohol and get into trouble. He commented Yost Pool was opened in 1973 during the second bear market, the first was the Great Depression and the third the current market, and had been open for 35 consecutive seasons. He summarized good physical health and exercise precipitated mental health and positive self - esteem. He suggested resolving the remaining issues at a supplemental hearing on March 31 to allow Yost Pool to remain open. Kari Gronvold, Edmonds, recalled the fight to build Yost Pool when people said it would be a detriment to the community and cause problems and crime. Instead it has been a wonderful asset to the City. She anticipated the closure of Yost Pool would put a strain on pools in Lynnwood and Mountlake Terrace and children and adults would be unable to swim and enjoy the wonderful scenery of Yost Park. Lane Seeley, Edmonds, commented when the citizens elected leaders they expected them to call citizens to do things that were good for the community and keeping Yost Pool open was clearly one of those things. He questioned why citizens were not being called to do whatever was necessary to keep the pool open. He referred to efforts in other communities to build pools, and their finding that seasonable pools were typically money makers. He questioned whether the aquatic feasibility study looked at seasonal, Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 3 money maker pools to determine what those communities had that Edmonds did not. He concluded the citizens of Edmonds were willing to sacrifice to keep Yost Pool open and would like to be called to make those sacrifices. John Bissell, Edmonds, expressed his anger at the current situation. He referred to the reasons cited by the Hoppers for keeping the pool open and questioned why Yost Pool was the first program to be cut. He referred to the ideas a group of citizens developed for generating additional revenue, questioning why the Council and professional staff had not identified these ideas but instead simply cut Yost Pool from the budget. He pointed out the immeasurable value the pool provided to the City, recalling he saw a bald eagle in the forest of Yost Park while sitting in the hot tub at Yost Pool last year, a sight unlikely to occur at any other pool. He was concerned if the pool were closed due to the budget shortfall, it would never reopen. He urged the Council and Mayor to seek creative ideas for keeping the pool open. Isabella Rohani, Edmonds, a sixth - grader, recalled speaking to the Council the last time Yost Pool was discussed by the Council. She was disappointed in the Council, envisioning this as their chance to show they were leaders who would help the community. She cited four points, 1) Yost Pool users previously begged the City to keep the pool open, 2) a promise was made to keep the pool open for 2009, 3) the pool was taken away at the last minute, and 4) citizens were angry. She commented on the importance of the pool, recognizing the Council may lose their chance to take a stand and do something for the kids and the community. When people are unable to take vacations this summer, Yost Pool will be a great place for them to go. Susan Rogers, Edmonds, commented this was an opportunity for the Council to take a stand and allow the Concerned Citizens for Yost Pool group to develop a plan to bridge the gap or raise the funds to cover the shortfall for pool operations. She suggested fundraising opportunities such as selling benches, Yost Pool merchandise, banners, etc., assuring citizens, businesses and students were ready to help with developing a solution. She asked for a date by which a plan must be developed and the funds necessary to keep Yost Pool open. She agreed many will not be taking vacations this summer and will be using local amenities more. She also suggested consideration be given to using volunteers to operate the pool. Scott Phelan, Edmonds, expressed appreciation for the Council's time to make the difficult decisions. He suggested there were other places in the City's budget where cuts could be made and closing Yost Pool should not be an option because it makes Edmonds a great place and is a place with a sense of community. He suggested the City commit $100,000 to the pool and allow another agency to operate the pool and /or reduce some of the free days. He summarized his family decided not to take a vacation this summer so that they could purchase the full summer pass at Yost Pool regardless of the cost. He commented in recent weeks it appears there are more people shopping in the City. Monda Van Hollebeke, Edmonds, relayed a message for Mayor Haakenson from her 3 -year old granddaughter, "please keep the pool open and let me use the hot tub even though I'm not six years old." Ms. Van Hollebeke read a poem they is printed on the banner they purchase each year that describes what Yost Pool is like at 5:30 a.m. on a summer day for first swim: A robin warbles in his bower, like me he loves this early hour, a worker mows the fragrant grass, the water's skin is smooth as glass, a wild rose scent perfumes the air, the sun drops diamonds everywhere. Dick Van Hollebeke, Edmonds, expressed his anger at the current situation, commenting they have been active members of the community for the past 32 years. He referred to Mayor Haakenson's response to a citizen's email that stated everyone has their pet projects but cuts needed to be made, emphasizing Yost Pool was not someone's pet project but the community's gem. He suggested elected officials' attitude should not be where cuts could be made but how to be creative and find new resources and solicit citizens' comments rather than making arbitrary decisions. He recalled his suggestion in November that Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 4 the Council renegotiate the union contracts. He recognized the City's hard - working, caring employees, noting they were well paid and just received a 5.8% COLA. He envisioned City employees would rather retain their jobs at last year's pay scale than have their fellow employees laid off or the community forego use of one of the City's prime properties. In addition to the revenue suggestion posed by the Hoppers, he suggested charging $1 /hour for the 123 parking spaces the City owns on the waterfront. Assuming an average of 4 hours of parking per day year round, this would generate $500 /day or $182,500 /year. He suggested a sign by the pay box stating regret the fee was necessary but the City was trying to preserve its park system. He suggested the City's merchants reimburse shoppers for the parking via a 10% discount on merchandise. He urged the Council to be creative and find a way to preserve Yost Pool rather than saying it could not be done. Lisa Walker, Edmonds, recalled as a kid watching Yost Pool be constructed and summers spent at Yost Pool. She recalled watching Mark Spitz win 7 gold medals in 1972 and her dream of being an Olympic swimmer. She joined the swim team and synchronized swim team and was coached by the future Olympic synchronized swim coach Charlotte Davies. She joined the swim team in high school, set many records at Edmonds High School and was the high school swim captain. After a 17 year break from the pool, she returned to begin training for her first triathlon in 1996. Since then she has competed in six Ironman triathlons. Swimming the 2.4 mile swim course she represented her country and Edmonds, she fulfilled a dream that began 35 years ago at Yost Pool. She relayed a message from Charlotte Davies who coached local swim stars Tracie Ruiz and Candy Costie to two Olympic gold medals, regarding the importance of access to local neighborhood pools and urging the Council to consider the impact closing Yost Pool would have on the area's youth swim program. Dave Teitzel, Edmonds, relayed an email from his 19 -year old daughter that stated Yost was more than a pool to her, it was a community. Yost had been her home since she was six years old, taking swim lessons and spending many summers on swim team. She loved Yost so much she began to work there at age 16. She did not work at Yost for the money but for the friends and people she helped. Yost is a community symbol, where many children take swim lessons, swim on the swim team and have birthday parties. She noted reducing pay and adjusting pool hours were simple ways to reduce costs and keep Yost Pool open. Yost offers a positive place for kids and makes Edmonds a great place to live. From toddlers taking swim lessons, to the kids on swim team, to the 80 -year olds that lap swim every morning, many people consider Yost their home. Ron Jacobs, Everett, advised he swims at Yost Pool 4 -5 times /week during the summer, suggesting this unique outdoor pool should be revered. He envisioned the pool could be operated more efficiently, relationships formed with other organizations such as the YMCA, revenues could be enhanced, as shown tonight, and attendance increased by marketing the pool. He was unaware of any other municipality willing to close a pool to address their financial challenges and questioned why Edmonds was willing to close its only pool. He recommended a well thought out plan be developed to save Yost Pool. Barbara Mercer, Edmonds, explained she was seriously injured when a car ran into her downtown Edmonds frame shop two years ago. She described her miraculous recovery that included the protection of angels during the accident, prayers of concerned Edmonds residents, physical therapy and swimming at Yost Pool. After three months of swimming at Yost Pool nearly every day, her atrophied muscles and her strength returned. She summarized her amazing recovery would not have been possible without Yost Pool. The outdoors, fresh air, and helpful employees make the pool a happy place, a very valuable summertime activity. She urged the Council to keep Yost Pool open. Ann Testreet, Seattle, commented she drives to Edmonds every day in the summer to swim at Yost Pool, the best pool around. She remarked on the shortage of outdoor pools in the region, pointing out many Seattle residents swim at Yost Pool and shop or dine in Edmonds before and after. She encouraged the Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 5 City to raise the rate for non - residents, remarking swimming was beneficial for all ages, promoted physical and mental well being and a sense of community. She encouraged the Council to preserve Yost Pool. Alex Walker, Edmonds, agreed with the suggestion to raise the price of admission to the rates charged by other pools in the area and increasing the price for non - residents. She described how Yost Pool has affected her life: she joined Yost Swim Team when she was 6 years old and for 10 years swam as a Penguin, discovering a passion for swimming. She joined a year -round team and her high school swim team and was captain of her high school swim team. Swimming helped her stay focused, stay out of trouble, kept her healthy, gave her a job as a lifeguard, provided her a means of escape and taught her discipline and how to set goals. She summarized closing Yost Pool would eliminate the opportunity for youth to learn the things from swimming that she learned and would not allow them to discover the passion for swimming that she discovered at Yost Pool. Rowena Miller, Edmonds, agreed with previous speakers. She pointed out Yost Pool was economic development because many users also shop and eat in Edmonds. She expressed concern that the proposed cuts placed an inordinate burden on seniors, young people and families; in bad economic times, low cost, nearby activities were needed more than ever. She urged the Council to examine the budget and identify cuts in all departments, not just the Senior Center, parks and the pool. She referred to a newspaper article announcing all Snohomish County employees, including union employees, had agreed to unpaid days off and suggested Edmonds do the same. She questioned whether there were other savings possible in the Fire and Police Departments, decreased overtime via discontinuing participation in special events, reducing fire and EMS service to Esperance, the Police Department focusing on major crime and less on small, victimless infractions, freeing up money in other areas with federal stimulus funds, or in the Planning Department due to decreased building permits. She encouraged the Council and Mayor to consider cuts in the entire budget, emphasizing the need for the Senior Center, Park maintenance and programs and Yost Pool. Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, commented Yost Pool had been part of his family's relationship with the City for many years. He envisioned the cost to open the pool after mothballing would be approximately $500,000 which made that prohibitive. He questioned whether the $80,000 cost of Yost Pool included the cost to maintain the facility year - round, whether or not it was operational. He suggested using the Hotel /Motel Tax to fund activities at the pool that bring in tourists and teams from outside the city. He urged the Council not to endorse the proposed resolution that affirmed the actions taken by Mayor Haakenson because his actions were rushed and developed without any thought to the ideas the community has presented. Jeff Draper, Edmonds, pointed out the non -union employees received a 6% increase, which totaled approximately $100,000 /year, the exact amount needed to keep Yost Pool open. He questioned whether any of the non -union employees, like the AIG executives who received bonuses, would be interested in returning their raises. David Thorpe, Edmonds, agreed Yost Pool was a gem and a unique amenity; however, consideration must be given to the City's finances. He recalled questioning the expenditure when the Council discussed $60,000 to fund an aquatics feasibility study and being convinced by pool users that that was appropriate. In November, he again expressed concern when the cost of the feasibility study increased to $80,000. He recognized there had been some financial missteps by the Council and the City that lead to this situation. He disagreed Mayor Haakenson made the decision to close Yost Pool haphazardly and recalled the sense of relief last November when it appeared the Yost Pool and the DARE program could be retained and former Councilmember Dawson saying the financial situation would need to be addressed sooner or later. He was not in favor of closing Yost Pool but was also not in favor of the City not maintaining its other Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 6 buildings, allowing its infrastructure to fail, or to pay ever increasing taxes to continue current services; citizens must give up something. He agreed with the need to develop creative solutions to address the City's financial situation. Dave Page, Edmonds, commented the last budget cuts were necessary because revenue projections were lower than anticipated. When he was interviewed by KOMO yesterday, he said the problem of Yost Pool would be solved, not by the Council or Mayor but by Edmonds citizens. He recalled serving as the Chair of the bond committee for the new Public Safety complex, explaining the committee raised $13,000 to organize the bond issue. He offered to donate $500 toward Yost Pool, recommending citizens raise at least 25% of the Yost Pool operating shortfall to show good faith and to assure the Council they would be the advocates for the levy. He also offered his office with 40 telephones to do fundraising. Randi Clink, Edmonds, 10 years old, commented Yost Pool was a very big part of her and her family and friends' lives. She began taking swim lessons when she was 4 years old and is now on the swim team and enjoys going to free swim time. She would be devastated if Yost Pool were closed. She agreed Yost Pool was a gem and was a home for many people and, if it closed, would be like the death of a close friend or relative. Lana Simpson, Edmonds, a lifeguard at Yost Pool for the past three years, commented not only was Yost Pool the best pool to work at, its employees were the highest paid. She was willing to be paid less because she would rather have a job this summer and make less money than not have a job. She summarized the decision to close Yost Pool seemed hasty and she urged the Council to reconsider the decision and look at other ways to address the shortfall. Priya Clouthier, Edmonds, commented citizens' anger at Mayor Haakenson was misplaced; he has been concerned for years that the City was using its reserves instead of economic development. Citizens' anger should be directed at the Council who have not developed the community's economic base. She agreed Yost Pool was a gem and would hate to have it closed. She was proud to be a part of the community who showed their support for Yost Pool, and pledged $500 toward the fundraising effort. Next, she relayed the Citizen Levy Review Committee received a presentation from each department last night and it was clear they are all operating on a shoestring. She felt it unfair to ask employees to take a pay cut or to ask labor to renegotiate their contracts, envisioning the community could fund the pool. She urged the Council to table this issue for a week to allow the community to develop a plan. Harold Huston, Edmonds, echoed previous comments, remarking the solution to keeping Yost Pool open was to raise the user fee. With regard to the Senior Center, he expressed appreciation for the $60,000 Edmonds provided this year, $5,000 from Lynnwood, $60,500 from Snohomish County, and $27,000 from United Way. He recognized the 400 -450 volunteers who work at the Senior Center, estimating the Center saved the City approximately $600,000 per year if the City provided similar services. As an example, the City of Lynnwood provides $630,000 biannually to fund their senior center. With regard to parks, he commended the Parks Director and his staff as well as other department heads and employees for the excellent job they do. He suggested citizens adopt parks and volunteers provide maintenance. With regard to the flower program, he suggested it be maintained by donations, service clubs, and businesses. He urged the Council not to do anything that hurt City employees, recognizing the City had lost a number of excellent employees who left to work in the private sector. Foster Ken, Edmonds, commented no more children should be lost to crime. She urged citizens to stop whining, fight for what they want and work with the City to make this happen. Sandy Erkhart, Edmonds, commented every year when he purchases a Yost Pool season pass he is amazed at how inexpensive it is and would be happy to pay twice that amount. He envisioned the pool Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 7 had the potential to be not only revenue neutral but revenue positive. He offered a $200 donation toward Yost Pool. Ray Martin, Edmonds, commented many cities were given an opportunity to ask for stimulus funds for pools, senior centers, community centers, schools, etc.; when he asked why Edmonds had not asked for funds, he was told by a Councilmember that there wasn't time to involve citizens. As a member of the Board of Directors at the South County Senior Center, he invited Councilmembers and the Mayor to attend the next or subsequent Board meeting on the third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. He acknowledged several Councilmembers have attended in the past, explaining it is a very different atmosphere now. He described the current atmosphere as friendly, growing, rapport among members, fundraising taking off, ideas, addressing problems, making progress, respect, and the culture has changed. He advised the new Senior Center Director wants the Center to have better coffee. Mayor Haakenson expressed his appreciation for citizens' passion and hoped in the days ahead others affected by budget cuts, layoffs and furloughs would speak to the Council with the same amount of passion because the City's financial situation was not just about Yost Pool. It was about the future of the City and how to have the revenues in the big picture /long run to continue to provide the current services. He acknowledged there may be a way to save Yost Pool this year but cautioned the same situation would occur next year and every future year until an answer to the City's revenue problem was identified. Mayor Haakenson recognized Community Services /Economic Development Director Stephen Clifton for his efforts to submit stimulus fund requests to the federal government. He assured the City applied for everything within the guidelines of what could be applied for; some things the City simply could not apply for. The City received $1 million for street overlays; however, it would not replace any other funding because the street overlay fund was already empty. Mayor Haakenson explained the list of cuts he announced ten days ago had much more than Yost Pool; the cuts totaled $325,000. Next week the second round of cuts would be announced, approximately $600,000, that will include pay cuts, layoffs, and furloughs. He met with all the labor unions and the non- represented employees who are considering what they would be willing to give back to save jobs and keep the community going. The unions are meeting with their memberships this week. With regard to non - represented employees, he urged the community not to blame the employees because the Council gave them a 5.8% pay increase. He was embarrassed to hear the debacle of the AIG executive's pay mentioned in the same breath as City employees. He assured the non- represented employees worked hard for the City and had not received a merit increase this year. He announced the non - represented employees agreed to nine furlough days and the balance of the union leadership he had spoken with seemed willing to do something. Mayor Haakenson referred to the presentations given by each department at last night's Citizen Levy Review Committee, and the citizens' amazement at the services the City provides with such a small workforce. He urged citizens to attend the next three Citizen Levy Review Committee meetings to hear the levy proposal for this November which would allow the City to continue to provide the current services through the next five years. He summarized solving the big picture would take more than donations and volunteerism. Council President Wilson agreed with Mayor Haakenson's comments. He asked Parks & Recreation Director Brian McIntosh whether he recommended Yost Pool as a possible cut when the City's financial situation began deteriorating. Mr. McIntosh recalled Yost Pool as well as other cuts were proposed last year during budget deliberations. He explained the reason Yost Pool and other parks programs were on the list of cuts last year was the subsidy they receive; Yost Pool receives approximately $100,000. He summarized it was not appropriate to cut programs such as gymnastics because they generate money for Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 8 the City. Council President Wilson observed the strongest advocate for Yost Pool, Mr. McIntosh, included Yost Pool on his recommended list of cuts. Mayor Haakenson referred to public comments that these cuts were a knee-jerk reaction and made without any thought; he assured he met with all the directors prior to announcing these cuts and asked for their recommendations. It was not an easy decision to select any of these programs for cuts. Although he is a huge fan of the DARE program, it was necessary to eliminate that program. Council President Wilson recalled during the budget review process last year he asked about increasing the fees at Yost Pool to offset costs. Mr. McIntosh responded all fees are reviewed annually with regard to demand, competition and what the market will bear and fees for summer programs were increased 8% this year. He met today with the citizen group to discuss fees and they suggested substantial increases beyond 8% by matching the fees charged by Mountlake Terrace. He was unsure the fees could be increased that much; Mountlake Terrace has 5 -6 of the amenities being considered in the feasibility study to allow an aquatics center to generate higher fees, commenting perhaps Yost Pool is worth more and the public seems to be willing to pay more. He pointed out the risk of lower attendance when fees are raised, particularly in this economic climate when people are watching their spending and making priorities. Council President Wilson pointed out the Council did not determine the cost of entry to the pool; it is the responsibility of staff to conduct that market research and propose increases in their best judgment. He was confident when Mr. McIntosh proposed an 8% increase that that amount was appropriate. Council President Wilson recalled he asked whether the cost of banners could be increased from $300 to $500 or $1000. Mr. McIntosh responded it was too late to raise the price this year but it could be considered for 2010. He agreed $300 may be low but it allowed families and smaller companies to participate and to show their support. Council President Wilson summarized he asked the above questions to demonstrate the Council has been asking questions regarding raising rates, increasing sponsorship levels, etc. Council President Wilson reported he attended a meeting last Thursday hosted by the Van Hollebeke's and was impressed by the creativity and sincerity of the group. In his perspective, simply asking the City to pay more money was a non - starter because of the City's financial situation. One suggestion was to have a non - profit group operate Yost Pool, a model similar to the Senior Center — a non - profit operates the program in a city -owned building. He envisioned that model could work well for the pool. He suggested at the meeting hosted by the Van Hollebeke's that the group needed to be able to raise $30,000 by May 1. Even if the Hopper's suggestions were implemented, rates were increased, staffing improved and attendance stayed the same, there was still a $50,000 shortfall. He emphasized simply making donations was not enough; it would require someone to form a non - profit and someone with experience with operating a pool. He envisioned Councilmembers would provide donations and if the group could raise $30,000, he envisioned the City may provide $10,000. He offered to assist with fundraising. He suggested the Council may be willing to meet next Tuesday to discuss Yost Pool if a non - profit entity was willing to present a plan. Mayor Haakenson declared a brief recess. 5. RESOLUTION AFFIRMING INTERIM PROGRAMMATIC REDUCTIONS TO THE 2009 -2010 CITY OF EDMONDS BUDGET Council President Wilson read the resolution under consideration by the Council: Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 9 Whereas in December, 2009, the City Council adopted the 2009 -2010 Budget with both major cuts and increased tax revenues amounting in a projected surplus of $300, 000 for 2009, and Whereas the economy has deteriorated rapidly since that time, resulting in significant declines in forecasted revenues during 2009, creating an annual budget deficit of approximately $1.1 million, and Whereas this leaves the City with an ending fund balance of'only $250,724 at the end of'2009, approximately $2.63 million dollars short of recommended reserves to cover one month of operating expenditures, and Whereas this follows periods of'the preceding decade during which City reserves were depleted by the provision of services at costs exceeding the receipt of tax revenues, and Whereas in light of'both the economic climate and the limited reserves held by the City, Mayor Haakenson, acting within his authority as chief administrator of the City, announced on Friday, March 13`'', 2009, programmatic cuts in the following City departments: 2009 Economic Development $33,000 - Police $115,607 - Parks & Recreation (inel. the closing of Yost Pool) $305,010 - Economic Development $33,000 - Police $121,706 - Parks & Recreation (inel. the closing of Yost Pool) $319,045 - Non - departmental (incl. funds to the Senior Center) $60,000 Now, therefore, be it resolved that the City Council of the City Of Edmonds understands and is ready to address the highly precarious financial situation posed by both a difficult economic climate and the limited existing reserves, and Therefore be it further resolved that the Council recognizes the need and affirms the actions taken by the Mayor to reduce 2009 -2010 budget expenditures in light of the precarious financial situation faced by the City, and Therefore be it further resolved that the Council will reduce its City Council Contingency budget $20, 000 in 2009 and $25, 000 in 2010. Council President Wilson explained if the Council passed the resolution, they would be putting their stamp of approval on Mayor Haakenson's cuts. If the resolution failed, the cuts remained without the Council's stamp of approval. In his view, the Council owed the citizens a vote regarding the cuts made by Mayor Haakenson. Councilmember Bernheim was not in favor of supporting Mayor Haakenson's cuts at this time. He thanked the members of the public who spoke about the pool and agreed with the suggestion to increase admission fees for residents and non - residents. He anticipated the increased fees would impact families in these difficult times. He also thanked the citizens who provided financial suggestions, including the spreadsheet provided by Ms. Hopper. He suggested the price of the banners remain the same and more families purchase the $300 banners to support Yost Pool and if there was not room for more banners, the banners could be smaller. He recognized the need to raise $100,000 - $150,000 to offset the shortfall in Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 10 pool operations, commenting he had not taken the lead in that effort because Yost Pool was not his highest priority. He suggested the Klahaya Community Club may be a resource for the City. Councilmember Bernheim explained he felt he was tricked into the aquatics consultant study for $80,000; first the study was $60,000 and 1/3 was to study siting a pool at the former Edmonds - Woodway High School. After the pool study was approved, the Council learned the High School was never a site for the pool. He noted the pool consultants were national experts on pools and suggested they be asked to provide advice to the City regarding Yost Pool. With regard to the suggestion to cut the Sister City program, he noted there was no funding in the budget for that program. He disagreed with the comments that closing the pool would lead to crime, graffiti and drug use among children, pointing out that was a false statement intended to get people upset. Councilmember Bernheim recalled proposing a $10,000 cut in funds provided to the Senior Center this year but disagreed with eliminating all funding to the Senior Center. The Senior Center may be even more important than Yost Pool because although children may deserve a good swim team, seniors deserve a place to spend the day and obtain needed services. He suggested several alternate cuts, noting his suggestions were made in the spirit of good faith. He explained marijuana arrests occupy a large percentage of the public safety budget; in September, 2008, it cost the City $5,000 to book 12 adults into the Snohomish County jail and pay for 68 jail days for small amounts of possession or drug paraphernalia; and $6,000 in October for 13 bookings and 72 jail days. He explained the Municipal Court handles traffic cases and non - traffic criminal cases; of the non - traffic criminal cases, 61% are for marijuana or pipe possession. He preferred citizens be protected against crimes such as assault, sale of drugs and alcohol to minors, thefts, burglary, etc. With regard to DARE, Councilmember Bernheim felt the $85,000 spent on the DARE program was a waste of money because there was no evidence that participating in DARE was effective at reducing future drug use. He disagreed with a comment that the reason the City was in this situation was because the City Council had not supported economic development in the past. In his opinion, the City was in this situation because of the millions that had been spent in an effort to move the ferry terminal and if those funds had been spent on tourism development instead, possibly additional revenue would be available. Councilmember Bernheim summarized the future of Edmonds was in preserving its charm and heritage, including Yost Pool. He recognized the City was collecting less in sales tax as a result of the current recession and that the City depended too heavily on sales taxes from automobile sales. Further, the City was collecting far less in Real Estate Excise Taxes due to decreased home sales and lower prices. He agreed there were few areas left to be cut in the budget and it was a very clean, trim budget. He suggested reducing police expenses and court expenses for what he considered moral violations and to eliminate the DARE program. He concluded approval of the levy this November may be the City's only option. He suggested taking $50,000 from the $1.9 million emergency fund to fund Yost Pool in 2009 due to the economic emergency. Councilmember Wambolt pointed out he did not vote in favor of the $80,000 expenditure for the pool study. With regard to Councilmember Bernheim's comment about millions spent on the relocation of the ferry terminal, he questioned what money from an economic development fund was spent on that effort. Although he appreciated the citizens speaking tonight, they did not change his mind; he would not support any of the cuts made by Mayor Haakenson until he reported on his negotiations with the unions. Because 68% of the City's budget was spent on compensation, cuts in those expenditures must be considered before programmatic cuts. He emphasized the levy would not address the funding shortfalls the City was experiencing in 2009. The cuts Mayor Haakenson proposed were intended as a bandaid for 2009. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 11 Councilmember Plunkett thanked the public for their input. He was unable to support the proposed resolution because only approximately 1/3 of the necessary information had been presented to the Council. He did not support cutting funding to the Senior Center or Yost Pool. Councilmember Orvis did not support the proposed resolution. If the levy passed and the City had a $250,000 ending cash balance, although it would be tight, he viewed that as a victory. He was unwilling to agree to any cuts in 2010, such as the reducing in funding to the Senior Center, until the outcome of the levy was known, acknowledging if the levy failed, substantial cuts would be required. If projections in the next few months reduced the ending cash balance to a negative amount, he would be willing to make additional cuts. He preferred to provide the public an opportunity to provide funding before cuts were made. Councilmember Peterson supported the fact that Mayor Haakenson had to make these cuts. His concern with the resolution was the Council did not yet have all the facts. He thanked the citizens who spoke for their passion and for enlightening him on several new ideas. Although he did not support paying for these cuts on the back of labor, until all the facts were gathered, the Council and citizens did not have a clear enough picture to support the resolution. Councilmember Olson supported Mayor Haakenson but preferred to wait a few weeks for the whole picture. Councilmember Plunkett referred to the $250,000 ending cash balance and the $1.9 million emergency reserve fund that Mayor Haakenson has indicated could be used for emergencies such as earthquakes, tidal waves, etc. He also considered the current once -in -a- lifetime economic event an appropriate use for those funds. Mayor Haakenson commented there were a few citizens who seemed to believe money had disappeared from the budget. He explained Fund 006, the Emergency Finance Reserve Fund, also known as the Rainy Day Fund, in the amount of $1,927,600 was listed on pages 56 and 57 of the 2009/2010 budget book. The Fund is audited by the State annually and he assured the money was there. This Fund was originally established by Ordinance 2546 in 1986 in the amount of $100,000 for the purpose of reserving money to offset projected decreases in state and federal grants, such as the federal Revenue Sharing and Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation grants. Federal Revenue Sharing was eliminated in 1987. The purpose of the fund was revised by Ordinance 2912 in 1994 to include unanticipated emergencies with which the City may be confronted, including, but not limited to declines in federal and other revenues, unanticipated emergency costs and emergency liabilities. Mayor Haakenson believed the tone of those ordinances clearly spoke to emergencies, not day -to -day usage. He explained past Councils have recognized the wisdom of an Emergency Finance Reserve Fund and have chosen never to spend it on budget issues or under- funded City programs. The Fund was created by ordinance of the City Council who saw the need to keep those funds separate from the General Fund and every City Council since 1986 has agreed with that philosophy. As Mayor he always considered the Fund an emergency fund and to be used only for a natural disaster, such as an earthquake or other catastrophe, unforeseen emergency or a stop -gap measure to meet payroll expenses or other bills if the ending cash balance dropped below zero. As painful as it was to close the pool or reduce park maintenance, discontinue the DARE program, make layoffs or ask employees to take pay cuts, none of them qualified as emergencies; they were program cuts that were operational in nature. If the Council used the Emergency Reserve Fund to keep Yost Pool open this summer, they would be using the reserves to fund a $100,000 loss. In the end, it was the Council's decision how to spend reserves. He has never waived in Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 12 his belief how they should be spent; they were designated for emergencies and the City was not in that situation yet. Council President Wilson observed there did not appear to be enough support to pass the resolution, noting he presented the resolution to facilitate discussion. If not this resolution, he urged the Council to take a vote of some kind on the cuts made by Mayor Haakenson. In his opinion, the worst thing the Council could do was nothing. He acknowledged more information would become available but this resolution was in regard to the cuts made ten days ago. COUNCIL PRESIDENT WILSON MOVED FOR APPROVAL OF THE RESOLUTION. MOTION DIED FOR LACK OF A SECOND. Council President Wilson asked the Council: if not this resolution, then what? In response to Councilmember Peterson's comment that the cuts to labor could fund these cuts, Mayor Haakenson assured that was not the case. The cuts to labor would be in addition to the cuts that were already announced and that was the only way the ending cash balance could be raised to over $1 million. Councilmember Peterson assured that was not his intent; his point was a lot of citizens think these cuts could be covered by cuts in staff. He was aware the cuts could not be covered by cuts in labor. And even if they could, he could not keep a pool open on the backs of employees. He supported the intent of the resolution, agreeing the Council needed to admit that there were difficult decisions to be made and that mistakes had been made in the past. He acknowledged the City had had its head in the sand for a number of years with regard to seeking new revenue sources and has relied on 58% of its sales tax from car dealerships. Once updated financial projections and more information about labor were available, he would be willing to consider this or a similar resolution. Councilmember Wambolt reiterated the problem was salaries. He explained before the Council approved a 5.8% COLA for non - represented employees, staff conducted an annual salary survey of comparable cities; the City's salaries are in line with those cities. However, in these economic times, people are losing their jobs, taking pay cuts and unpaid time off. He noted the State of New York planned to fire 8,900 employees unless employees returned pay increases and accepted a cut in benefits. In that environment, Edmonds planned to ask its citizens to approve a property increase this November and at the same time take away services, a ridiculous scenario without asking employees to do anything. To those who did not think it was fair to ask employees to take pay cuts, he commented there were many things happening in the world today that were not fair, some things had to be done to survive. Until information was available regarding labor cuts, he could not support the cuts made by Mayor Haakenson. And if the information provided by Mayor Haakenson regarding labor cuts was not satisfactory, he recommended the Council begin to make pay cuts. Mayor Haakenson relayed a question from the audience regarding the drop dead date to fund the pool, explaining he would meet with Mr. McIntosh tomorrow to discuss a deadline for the citizens group to present a plan to keep the pool open this summer. COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON, TO EXTEND THE MEETING UNTIL 10:30 P.M. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, commented the resolution proposed by Council President Wilson was premature. He agreed with Councilmember Wambolt's comments regarding how the Council should Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 13 react in tight times; however, Councilmember Wambolt had also supported the Mayor's salary increase. He agreed with the suggestion to take money out of the Rainy Day Fund, reiterating he did not believe the funds existed. With regard to Yost Pool, he suggested the Council ask for a breakdown of the $100,000 Yost Pool shortfall before making a decision to close the pool. He summarized Yost Pool could pay for itself and anticipated much of the operating shortfall was the cost of the facility year - round. Ray Martin, Edmonds, was pleased with the Council's performance tonight. He expressed disappointment in Mayor Haakenson's comment that he was laughing, assuring that he took the matter very seriously. He anticipated Mayor Haakenson's ill- tempered comment was due to his dislike of his (Mr. Martin's) email today regarding the Emergency Financial Reserve Fund. Priya Clouthier, Edmonds, expressed disappointment in Councilmember Bemheim's comments, pointing out because he did not have children he was willing to treat a daily activity in children's lives with disrespect. With regard to DARE, she pointed out there were also no studies that indicated DARE did not work. As a parent of a 13 -year who uses Yost Pool, the pool is a big deal. Next, she expressed concern that although the Rainy Day Fund was intended for emergencies, Councilmember Plunkett was willing to dip into the City's coffers when no emergency existed. She thanked Mayor Haakenson for his hard work. Diane Buekshnis, Edmonds, referred to Earth Hour on Saturday, March 28, from 8:30 — 9:30 p.m., advising the public can register to participate at www.EarthHourUS.org or follow the link on SustainableEdmonds.org. Rich Senderoff, Edmonds, relayed the Council appeared to be interested in finding ways to think creatively, to engage the community and to try to get the City through 2009 to passage of the levy. A member of the Levy Citizen Review Committee, he admitted he was a relatively easy sell, although he had information to gather, facts to learn and questions to be answered. He offered to go door to door to deliver votes for the levy as long as he was comfortable with its structure. He understood the difficult financial situation the City was in, commenting the community needed to come together and one of the places the community comes together is Yost Pool. Dave Page, Edmonds, commented this conversation would not be taking place if this were Flint, Michigan, because there are no pools there. He recalled saying to the press that Edmonds was not Medina, but neither was it Detroit, Michigan. The long term question to be answered is what kind of city does Edmonds want to be; a city that is always asking the Mayor and City Council to make cuts? He pointed out the underwater park was a hidden jewel, the best dive site on the west coast in under 30 feet of water, built over the last 30 years and visited by divers from all over the world. He suggested charging a user fee for the underwater dive park 7. APPROVAL OF PARK NAMING POLICY COUNCIL PRESIDENT WILSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON, TO REMOVE THE MOTION FROM THE TABLE. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The motion removed from the table is as follows: MOTION TO ADOPT THE PLANNING BOARD RECOMMENDATION FOR PARK NAMING POLICY AND AMENDED TO PROVIDE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL HAS FINAL AUTHORITY TO CHANGE THE NAME REGARDLESS OF THE PLANNING BOARD'S RECOMMENDATION. Council President Wilson commented the revisions made by staff were acceptable to him and achieved his intent to clarify the final naming authority belonged to the City Council and not the Planning Board. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 14 COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, TO REVISE CRITERIA C TO ADD "HOWEVER, THE BOARD MAY CONSIDER THE NAME SHERWOOD IF THE COMMUNITY EXPRESSES A CLEAR SUPPORT FOR IT IN AND AROUND THE OLD WOODWAY ELEMENTARY." Councilmember Plunkett asked whether the Planning Board could consider the name Sherwood Park without this amendment. Councilmember Orvis referred to the language "no park shall be given the same name as an existing school site or public facility, except where the sites abut one another" explaining the old Woodway Elementary has been known as Sherwood Park and although he was unsure whether the community wanted to keep that name, he wanted the Planning Board to be open to considering it. Councilmember Wambolt envisioned it would be confusing to have Sherwood School and Sherwood Park. Councilmember Orvis recalled when his son played soccer at Sherwood Park the address of the Old Woodway Elementary was provided. Councilmember Plunkett expressed support for the amendment, recognizing the neighborhood had referred to that site as Sherwood Park. Council President Wilson appreciated the intent, pointing out the name Sherwood Park could be considered because the City Council had final approval. He was hesitant to add a specific name to a general policy. Councilmember Orvis urged the Council to approve this amendment, envisioning the Planning Board could receive public input and be forced to recommend a name that the Council would overturn. MOTION FAILED (2 -5), COUNCILMEMBERS ORVIS AND PLUNKETT VOTING YES. MAIN MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 8. COUNCIL REPORTS ON OUTSIDE COMMITTEEBOARD MEETINGS Council President Wilson reported the Lake Ballinger Forum met today; they are close to adopting a Strategic Plan for the six jurisdictions that participate in the Forum. He reported the first Citizen Levy Review Committee was held last night; there was a great amount of energy from the 60 participants. He recognized Senior Executive Council Assistant Jana Spellman for her assistance with organizing the meetings. Councilmember Orvis reported the State is considering removing the Motor Vehicle Excise (MVET) backfill for Health Districts, funds that replaced contributions from cities to the Health District. He explained removing that funding would have a detrimental impact on the Health District, affecting their ability to assist children in low income households, as well as their ability to control disease. Councilmember Peterson reported an issue discussed at the Salmon Recovery Committee was how to dispose of expired medications. He urged the public not to flush their expired medications because they entered the water system and could seriously damage the fish population. Currently, the best disposal method was to leave the medication in the prescription bottle and place it in the garbage. There are plans to develop a medication recycling program. Councilmember Wambolt reported at their March 9 meeting the Port had a presentation from Debra Knutson, President, Snohomish County Economic Development Council, who reported unemployment in Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 15 Snohomish County had reached 8.5 %. She also reported on efforts to ensure Boeing creates the second 787 line in Everett. Ms. Knutson reported the sales tax in Snohomish County would increase to 9.5% effective April 1. He also learned from Port Commissioner Burkhart, the Port's liaison to Woodway, that the Town of Woodway is considering the purchase of Rosary Heights for their City Hall. He advised the Port's Executive Director Chris Keuss planned to retire May 31. There were 73 applicants for his position; various processes narrowed that number to 6. He along with five others will interview the six candidates this Thursday to reduce them to three finalists and the Port Commission will make the final selection. 9. MAYOR'S COMMENTS Mayor Haakenson echoed Council President Wilson's comments regarding the Citizen Levy Review Committee, relaying he received a great deal of feedback from citizens today about how much they learned. He thanked Council President Wilson for organizing the meetings and Councilmembers Wambolt and Peterson for attending. Mayor Haakenson commented KOMO did a story on the radio and TV last night regarding Yost Pool with an Edmonds citizen. The interview quotes a woman identified as the City's Floral Director, a position that does not exist and the woman does not work for the City. The shoddy journalism was addressed in a letter Mr. Page provided to the Council. He cautioned the public not to believe everything they saw or read in the news. He wished the best to Development Services Director Duane Bowman who was retiring at the end of the month, remarking he has been a great asset to the City, operating the most difficult department because when dealing with land use, someone was always upset. Mayor Haakenson appreciated knowing Mr. Bowman as both an employee and a friend. 0. COUNCIL COMMENTS Council President Wilson echoed Mayor Haakenson's comments regarding Mr. Bowman, commenting he was a class act. Councilmember Orvis echoed Mayor Haakenson's comments about Mr. Bowman's position, noting people were upset with him because he was not enforcing the law or because he was enforcing the law. The job requires a special personality, a personality that Mr. Bowman had. He congratulated Mr. Bowman on his retirement and wished him well. Councilmember Bernheim also offered Mr. Bowman his best wishes. He announced his daughter would be attending Seattle University Law School in June. He displayed an excerpt from the Street Tree Plan that states in retail, commercial and mixed use areas, minimum 3 -inch caliper trees will be installed. He displayed photographs of trees planted in front of Old Mill Town, all of which were less than a 2 -inch caliper. He suggested either changing the Street Tree Plan and informing the public that large trees would be replaced with trees of less than 2 -inch caliper, or require the trees be replaced with the trees required by the Street Tree Plan. Councilmember Peterson congratulated Mr. Bowman on his retirement. He thanked the Department Directors who made presentations at the Citizen Levy Review Committee. He recommended the same presentations be made at the next Council retreat. Councilmember Wambolt wished Mr. Bowman the best in his retirement. In response to Mr. Hertrich's comment regarding Mayor Haakenson's salary, he explained the Salary Commission met every two years Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 16 to consider the compensation of elected officials. Their report determined Councilmembers' salaries were appropriate and a slight change was recommended to their benefits. The Commission found the Mayor's compensation was well below the median level, making him the 12th highest paid person in the City. As a result, the Council agreed to raise his compensation up to the mid -range in two steps, halfway via an increase in July 2008 and the second half in July 2009. The Council made a decision recently not to implement the increase in July 2009 due to the economic situation. Councilmember Plunkett commented Mr. Bowman was always available via email or by visiting his office and he would miss him professionally and personally. Councilmember Olson agreed that Mr. Bowman would be missed. 11. ADJOURN With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:44 p.m. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 24, 2009 Page 17