2012-01-11 Planning Board MinutesCITY OF EDMONDS
PLANNING BOARD MINUTES
January 11, 2012
Chair Lovell called the meeting of the Edmonds Planning Board to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Public Safety
Complex, 250 — 5th Avenue North.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT
Philip Lovell, Chair
John Reed, Vice Chair
Kevin Clarke
Todd Cloutier (arrived at 7:40 p.m.)
Kristiana Johnson
Valerie Stewart
Neil Tibbott
Bill Ellis (Alternate)
READING/APPROVAL OF MINUTES
STAFF PRESENT
Dave Earling, Mayor
Carrie Hite, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director
Renee McRae, Recreation Manager
Karin Noyes, Recorder
VICE CHAIR REED MOVED THAT THE MINUTES OF DECEMBER 14, 2011 BE APPROVED AS AMENDED.
BOARD MEMBER CLARKE SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF AGENDA
Chair Lovell reviewed the proposed agenda. No changes were made, and the agenda was accepted as presented.
AUDIENCE COMMENTS
No one in the audience indicated a desire to address the Board during this portion of the meeting.
PARKS, RECREATION, AND CULTURAL SERVICES UPDATE
Ms. Hite said she was present to update the Board on Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services activities that have occurred
from July through December. She referred them to the written report prepared by staff, and specifically highlighted the
following:
The City broke ground on the Interurban Trail Project last August. The contractor expressed a desire to expedite the
construction schedule but was unable to complete the project within the weather window. The project is about 95%
complete, and the remaining work must wait for warmer weather. At this time, the contractor is working with
adjacent property owners to complete mitigation projects. The contractor is hoping to complete the project no later
than the end of April, pending weather conditions. She summarized that the project is on scope and on budget, and
the contractor has created a good relationship with adjacent property owners to provide appropriate mitigation. The
City is happy with the process and the progress of the project.
The City also broke ground last October for the small courtyard area in front of Old Milltown. However, while
grading the surface to get ready for construction, the contractor found that some posts and the boardwalk at Old
Milltown had deteriorated to a point where they needed to be replaced before the trench for the drain could be
installed. The City was not successful working with the bank (owner of the building) to resolve the issue, and did
not have the ability to do repair work on private property. The City has recently learned the property was
purchased, and the new owner has repaired the posts and the boardwalk and indicated support for the proposed park
development. The new owner has an ambitious business plan to attract new businesses into Old Milltown. The first
raised flower bed will be poured tomorrow, and the planters have been constructed by staff and are ready to be
poured. All the precast planters have been delivered and the benches have been sold and delivered. The City's two
horticulturists have worked with the Edmonds Floretum Garden Club to select plants for the new park. She said she
anticipates the project will come together fairly quickly from this point.
Last summer the Yost Park pool was replastered, and the project was completed on time and on budget. Other
minor improvements were done, as well. There is also money in the budget in 2012 to replace the boiler, and staff
will research more sustainable alternatives. However, because the pool will open in June, installation of the new
equipment may have to wait until after the pool closes in the fall.
The Edmonds School District owns the former Edmonds Woodway High School (EWHS) property, and the
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) owns part of the field and the green spaces west of the field. The District
has indicated their interest in redeveloping the field, and they have worked with the surrounding neighborhood to
create a master plan. Because the initial plan would be costly, the District is now considering scaling back the
project to just one baseball and one soccer field. They have invited representatives from the City of Edmonds to
participate in future discussions, along with representatives from Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, and Verdant
Health Care. Their goal is to put together a financial plan to move the project forward. City staff has expressed
concern that developing just one soccer field would not meet the current needs of the community. While the City
does not have a huge baseball community, they do have a need for two to three full-sized soccer fields to meet
community needs and to attract tournaments that bring visitors to the City.
The District has indicated that they have no desire to sell the Civic Stadium to the City, and the current lease ($1 per
year) expires in 2020. The District has also made it clear that they will seek market value for the property once the
current lease expires. The City depends on this property for fields, festivals, and other gathering opportunities, and
staff is working with the district to identify a solution. She has had discussions with the District about alternative
options. For example, the property could be developed as part of a partnership between the City and the District
through a Mutual Use Agreement. There has also been preliminary discussions about creating a master plan for
Civic Stadium that could include a baseball field to attract a semi-professional team to the City. This would meet
the District's needs for a high-school sports facility, and address the community's needs at the same time. However,
there are numerous concerns and benefits that still need to be addressed. Using this approach, a baseball field
would no longer be needed at the EWHS site, and additional soccer fields could be accommodated instead. The
District is interested in discussing various partnership opportunities. As discussions move forward, staff will
continue to report to the Board.
The City has partnered with People for Puget Sound and received a $100,000 grant from the Salmon Recovery
Board, which will be matched with $50,000 from the Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) Fund, and $50,000 from the
Stormwater Fund. The grant provides funding to start a feasibility study on the marsh, which does not currently
function property. The City, in conjunction with People for Puget Sound, is looking for ways to rehabilitate the
marsh so it can absorb storm and tide water, allow enough room for salmon to swim upstream, and provide habitat
for salmon. At this time, there is no evidence of salmon habitat in the marsh, and the study will include an analysis
of the best way to daylight Willow Creek to allow for potential salmon return. People for Puget Sound will take the
lead on the feasibility study and will work closely with parks and stormwater staff. Once a promising project has
been started, it is common for the Salmon Recovery Board to stick with it and continue to provide funding. A five-
year plan has been created to move the project forward, and the City is seeking a consultant to help further define
the next steps in the process.
Planning Board Minutes
January 11, 2012 Page 2
Chair Lovell noted that the Interurban Trail Project report indicates that "sharrows" would be added to 741h Avenue West.
He asked staff to define a "sharrow." Ms. Hite answered that a "sharrow" is an arrow that identifies a shared roadway for
both bicycles and vehicles. She noted that bike lanes are already present on 74`h Avenue West, but they will be restriped
with reflective paint.
Chair Lovell recalled that at their last meeting, Ms. Hite advised the Board that labor costs for constructing the Old Milltown
Plaza would be charged directly to the City. He asked if this expense is reflected in the total cost of the project. Ms. Hite
answered affirmatively. Chair Lovell asked if staff could provide an update on the Haines Wharf Park situation. Ms. Hite
answered that because of potential litigation, she is unable to provide an update on this project.
Chair Lovell asked if the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department has adequate funding to complete ongoing
maintenance and repair projects in 2012. Ms. Hite answered that there is sufficient funding for this year. However,
numerous maintenance projects have been deferred such as replacement of playground equipment. While staff works hard to
ensure the equipment is safe, it is worn out and takes a lot of staff time to inspect and correct problems. The restrooms at
many parks are old and need to be remodeled and/or replaced, as well. She advised that she has a list of deferred
maintenance projects that could be forwarded to Planning Board members. While some REET funding can be used to
address immediate maintenance needs, she acknowledged that numerous maintenance projects are not being taken care as a
result of insufficient funding.
Board Member Stewart complimented Ms. Hite and parks staff for putting the City in a good position from an economic and
environmentally sustainable standpoint. She said she is excited that the City received funding for a marsh feasibility study
and that the City can provide the necessary matching funds to accept the grant. She noted that the study would take between
five and six months to complete, and she questioned how this would impact the Port of Edmonds' ability to move forward
with their Harbor Square Redevelopment Master Plan. Ms. Hite said she has discussed this concern with the Port of
Edmonds. The Salmon Recovery Board did a site visit and raised the concern that daylighting Willow Creek through Marina
Beach Park may not be a viable option. They suggested that a better option would be to run the creek through Port property.
While the Port has concerns about this option, they have indicated their willingness to discuss the concept with the City.
This change may or may not impact Harbor Square. She noted that three options would be considered for daylighting
Willow Creek: through Marina Beach Park using the culvert that was already installed as part of the Sound Transit project,
across Port property, or up to Olympic Beach Park. Contamination on the Chevron property must also be addressed, and
then the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will have the first right of refusal to purchase the land.
The current channel for Willow Creek may be too long, and using a portion of the Chevron property would accommodate an
easier channel for salmon.
Board Member Reed recalled that two years ago, several designs were considered for replacing Yost Pool with a new
version. He asked if this project is still included on the City's "wish list." If so, does staff have any plans for moving the
project forward at some point in the future? Ms. Hite answered that the project is still included on the City's long-term
"wish list." However, it would be difficult to move it forward at this time because of its significant cost. She acknowledged
there are opportunities for grant funding, but it would take a tremendous amount of community support to approve bonds,
levies, etc. to fully fund the project. She reminded the Board that the City does not have a lot of capital dollars for parks.
They are currently limited to the $5,000 REET fund, so it would take a significant amount of time to stock pile enough
money for the project. She said a private/public partnership is another option the City could consider for potential
redevelopment of Yost Pool. While these partnerships have occurred across the nation, they are more difficult at this time
given the current economic situation. Chair Lovell recalled that he participated on the citizen group that explored options for
a new aquatics center in the City. The EWHS site was one potential site for the facility, but the District made it clear they
would not support the concept. He encouraged staff to be cautious when approaching the District about a potential
partnership to develop a new pool.
Board Member Johnson asked Ms. Hite to share the City's recent and planned efforts to raise more park revenue. Ms. Hite
reported on the following activities:
Planning Board Minutes
January 11, 2012 Page 3
• A non-resident fee for recreation programs was implemented in December. While they received a few negative
comments from non-residents, none were received from City residents. The 20% premium charged to non-residents
is estimated to result in an additional $50,000 of revenue per year.
A large percentage of recreational programs require contract instructors to teach the classes. The instructors are
paid a percentage of revenue depending on how many people register for the class, so there is incentive for them to
get more people. In the past, the revenue has been distributed 80% to instructors and 20% to the City. Staff has
been working to renegotiate the percentages to 75/25 and 70/30. The instructors have been cooperative because
they recognize that the City needs more revenue to continue to administer the programs. The previous 20% split
was not sufficient to cover the City's cost of advertising and registering participants and providing space for the
classes.
Staff will propose changes to the Edmonds Municipal Code to make it easier to allow concessions in parks. The
current code language is cumbersome and requires a public hearing and City Council approval. The proposed new
language would give the mayor authority to enter into concession agreements so that concessions can be treated
more like a business. She pointed out that a citizen has operated a day camp at Yost Park for several years at no
charge. While the camp provides a public benefit, the operator has been allowed to use public land without paying
for it. The operator is also not currently required to provide insurance, so the City has increased liability exposure.
She said the same is true for the dive shop and compass course school, which operate out of the dive park free of
charge and without providing insurance. The proposed code amendments would help clear up some of the problems
with the current process by requiring concessionaires to enter into formal contracts with the City, provide proof of
insurance, and provide some public benefit.
• The public has frequently asked for more amenities in the parks, particularly at Marina Beach Park, and the new
code language would encourage these types of uses to benefit the public. In addition, the City would receive a
percentage of the revenue, which could be used to fund other park projects.
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING ON PROCESS AND NAMING RECOMMENDATION FOR THE PARK AT
THE OLD MILLTOWN SITE
Chair Lovell noted that the initial public hearing for naming the park at Old Milltown was held on December 14"', and it was
continued to January I Ith. He recalled that at the initial hearing, the Board received numerous materials regarding past
proposals and plans related to the site. They agreed it would be appropriate to review the materials before making a
recommendation to the City Council. He particularly referred to the document titled, "Renovation of Old Milltown Garden,"
which was prepared in 2010 by the Edmonds Floretum Garden Club.
Board Member Cloutier arrived to the meeting at 7:40 p.m.
Leigh Bennett, Edmonds, Hazel Miller Foundation Board Member, recalled that he spoke to the Board at the December
14"' hearing on behalf of the Hazel Miller Foundation, and was present once again to address the Board's inquiries. He said
he reviewed the minutes from the last public hearing and found them to be accurate as to what was said. Because she was
not in attendance at the December 14"' hearing, Board Member Stewart asked Mr. Bennett to summarize the comments he
made earlier.
Mr. Bennett advised that the Hazel Miller Foundation was established after Hazel Miller's death in 2010. Its purpose is to
enhance quality of life by offering grant funding to organizations and municipalities in South Snohomish County,
particularly the City of Edmonds where she lived for 30 years. The Foundation was fully funded less than one year ago, and
it now has between $11 million and $12 million dollars. It is intended that the Foundation will exist in perpetuity. Once
fully operational, they will give away $500,000 to $600,000 per year. As per Ms. Miller's legal documents, the Mayor of
Edmonds will appoint members to fill vacant Foundation Board positions.
Mr. Bennett reported that in 2011, the Edmonds Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department submitted a grant
request asking the Foundation for either $40,000 to assist in the development expenses of the Old Milltown Park or up to
Planning Board Minutes
January 11, 2012 Page 4
$88,000, which is more than 50% of the total construction cost. The understanding was that staff would do their best to
shepherd the Foundation's desired name for the park through the process. The Foundation Board voted to accept the
$88,000 grant request on the condition that the new park would be named "Hazel Miller Plaza." He specifically referred to
the City's adopted Park Naming Policy and noted that Criteria E allows the City to name a park after "an individual or
organization that contributes significantly to the acquisition or development of the facility to be named." Because the
Foundation is offering to provide more than 50% of the total construction cost for the project, the Foundation Board felt it
would be consistent with the City's Park Naming Policy to name the park "Hazel Miller Plaza." He also referred to Criteria
D, which allows the City to name a park after "a commonly recognized historical event, group, organization or individual
(living or deceased)." He emphasized that the Foundation will become more recognized in future years and will exist in
perpetuity. He said the policy also states that the City is to conduct a poll to obtain citizen input on potential names, which
was done by the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department. He noted that of the 43 names submitted, more than
half included Hazel Miller's name and at least 25% supported the name "Hazel Miller Plaza."
Mr. Bennett recalled that at the last meeting the Board asked if the Foundation Board would support a variation of the name,
and he emphasized that the Board strongly believes it is important to use Hazel Miller's full name, and not just her last name.
They agreed that they were not willing to compromise their position in this regard. It is now up to the Board to determine if
a different name is so important that the City should elect to turn down the grant funding. He also emphasized that the
Foundation Board wants to start off their relationship with the City on a good and healthy relationship, and they view this as
an opportunity for the City.
Mayor Earling thanked the Board for their service to the community. He commented that one of the City's successes is
their volunteers who are willing to fill important roles and make good decisions on behalf of the citizens. He said he is
fortunate enough to have known the Miller Family. They were quiet people who loved the community, and the legacy they
have left for the community is important for the Board to consider, understand and appreciate. He said he supports naming
the park "Hazel Miller Plaza" so the City can accept the $88,000 grant from the Hazel Miller Foundation. This would free
up money that can be used for other park projects.
Mayor Earling said it is important to keep in mind that the Foundation was formed to benefit the community in perpetuity.
That means the Foundation will still be in place and making grants in the community when the Board members are gone.
They have already distributed grant funding throughout the community. He said he is on the Senior Services of Snohomish
County Board, which was one of the first recipients of a $500,000 grant from the foundation. Not only did he know the
Millers, but he knows most of the Foundation Board Members. They are thoughtful people who make good decisions. The
Old Milltown Park is one of the first large projects they have expressed an interest in, and accepting their generous grant
offer will not only leave a great legacy for the Miller Family, but the City will know they were one of the first to receive a
major grant. He said he supports the name proposed by the Foundation, and he knows the community will appreciate the
park for years to come.
Diana White, Edmonds, Hazel Miller Foundation Board, agreed that the Foundation has an excellent Board, and they
think hard on the decisions they make. She said she fully supports the Foundation's proposed name of "Hazel Miller Plaza."
She said Mr. and Mrs. Miller were very generous in what they did and she continually thinks of them watching the things the
Foundation does with their donation. Ms. White said she is also a newly elected member of the Edmonds School Board, and
she will share the Planning Board's earlier discussions about partnering with the City to provide recreational opportunities
for the community.
Board Member Tibbott asked if the Foundation foresees the possibility of on -going support for the programs offered at the
new park. Mr. Bennett referred to an email he sent to Ms. Hite in which he stated that the City could always submit a grant
proposal for park maintenance in the future, and the Foundation would make a decision on the request at that time.
Board Member Tibbott said he researched the Foundation's website to learn more about the projects they have contributed
to, as well as what they have in mind for the future. He asked if Mr. Bennett would consider Hazel Miller's name as the
trademark of the Foundation. Mr. Bennett said Hazel Miller is the Foundation's legal name. He recalled the Board
previously inquired if the Foundation would support the name "Miller Plaza," and he responded in an email that it is
important to use Ms. Miller's entire name because "Miller" is a common name and they want the park to be specifically
Planning Board Minutes
January 11, 2012 Page 5
associated with Hazel Miller. The Foundation believes it is important to recognize that the funds originated from Hazel
Miller.
Board Member Clarke said he is grateful that there are individuals, families and organizations that have a desire to give back
to the community, particularly in perpetuity. It is a wonderful blessing for organizations to receive funding from the
Foundation to improve the quality of life in the community. He said that, as a public board, the Planning Board has an
obligation to represent the constituents, and this is only the third time in the past 30 years that the City has named a new
park. The last two were named after individuals, but all previous parks were named after streets, locations, etc. He
expressed concern that the City's adopted Park Naming Policy does not give exact guidelines on this issue. They know that
if an organization or individual donates more than 50% of the cost of project construction, the City has the ability to name
the park after that organization or individual. However, the Board must also provide a forum for the public to voice their
opinions and ideas, recognizing that the City Council will make the final decision.
Board Member Clarke asked if Mayor Earling would agree that the Park Naming Policy needs to be refined and updated,
particularly to clarify who gets to choose the name of the park. Mayor Earling answered that any time the Board determines
that a policy is not working, they can recommend that the policy be reviewed and updated appropriately. He said that while
the policy may be somewhat unclear, it does not preclude the Board from accepting the park name proposed by the
Foundation. He encouraged the Board to take action on the park name now, and then ask the City Council to consider
revisions to the policy at some point in the future.
Chair Lovell recalled that the Board worked with the City's previous Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director to
create the current Park Naming Policy, which was adopted by the City Council in 2009. While he agreed with Board
Member Clarke's concern that the policy may need to be updated, he cautioned that perhaps some flexibility was intended to
allow the Board to act on various situations that come up that are in the best interest of the citizens. He encouraged the
Board to move forward with a recommended park name, and then work with staff to forward a recommendation to the City
Council that the policy be updated.
Board Member Clarke recalled that during a previous park naming process, a City Council Member indicated he would not
vote for naming a park after an individual who was still living, but the policy does not support this decision. Upon
researching policies from other cities and counties in the area, he found that some are much more specific. He suggested the
Board recommend the document be updated at some point in the future to provide greater clarity. However, he agreed that
the Board should not postpone their recommendation regarding the Old Milltown Park name until after the policy has been
updated.
Vice Chair Reed said he found the additional information provided at the last meeting to be helpful in understanding and
recognizing the Edmonds Floretum Garden Club's effort and substantial contributions to the process. Irrespective of what
the park is named, he said it is very important that significant donors and organizations are recognized in some way when the
park is completed. Ms. Hite agreed and advised that individuals and organizations who have contributed significantly to the
park project will be recognized by having their names placed on plaques that will be installed on planter insets.
Vice Chair Reed said he highly appreciates the Foundation's gesture. He suggested there has been enough publicity that the
public is aware of what the Foundation has done, is doing and will continue to do for the community. He said he is
impressed with the list of projects for which the Foundation has already provided support.
Board Member Stewart also thanked the Foundation for their generous donation towards the park construction. She said she
wished she could have known Ms. Miller. The City should be honored by the legacy that she has left and accept the
donation. She noted that many who submitted names for the park were in favor of using Hazel Miller's name is some
fashion, so naming the park "Hazel Miller Plaza" should not create controversy. She agreed it would be appropriate to
recognize others who have contributed to the process, as mentioned earlier by Ms. Hite. She also suggested that the sign to
the park could also include (in small letters) the words "at Old Milltown." She explained that people who have lived in the
community recognize Old Milltown as a destination, and including it on the sign would let people know right where to go
without diminishing the name "Hazel Miller Plaza." She said she is not concerned about using Ms. Miller's first and last
Planning Board Minutes
January 11, 2012 Page 6
name as part of the park name. Because the Foundation is named after Hazel Miller, it seems appropriate to use the full
name at the park name, as well. She said she is in favor of supporting the Foundation's request.
Chair Lovell summarized that:
• When the City Council approved the project last August, they temporarily loaned the Parks Department $70,000
from the REET Fund to aid in fulfilling funding needs for construction. However, the Parks, Recreation and
Cultural Services Department was instructed to go out and raise funds to refill the kitty.
• The design and construction currently in progress is not based on the Edmonds Floretum Garden Club's
"Renovation Plan" dated October, 2010.
• Many citizens, friends, and organizations within Edmonds have given much work, history, contribution and input to
the program now being realized at the park site. All of these efforts and contributions will be visually and
permanently designed and displayed within the park's infrastructure as coordinated and led by the Parks, Recreation
and Cultural Services Department.
• The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department fulfilled the City Council's charge of procuring additional
funding for the construction of the park by applying for and obtaining a two-part grant award from the Hazel Miller
Foundation. The larger grant award of $88,000 under current consideration is "conditioned" by the Hazel Miller
Foundation to provide that the restored park be named "Hazel Miller Plaza."
• The Park Naming Policy has been followed.
• Until the City may choose to identify and acquire same from independent sources, the maintenance and upkeep of
the new park will be carried out by the City's in-house forces.
CHAIR LOVELL MOVED THAT THE PLANNING BOARD RECOMMEND TO THE CITY COUNCIL THAT
THE NEWLY CONSTRUCTED PARK AT THE CORNER OF FIFTH AVENUE AND MAPLE STREET BE
NAMED "HAZEL MILLER PLAZA." HE FURTHER MOVED THAT THE BOARD RECOMMEND THAT THE
NAMES OF OTHER CONTRIBUTING INDIVIDUALS, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONAL ENTITIES TO
EITHER THE PARK'S HISTORY OR FUNDING BE RECOGNIZED THROUGH PERMANENTLY -INSTALLED
PLAQUES AT THE NEW PARK, SAID PROCESS BEING LED BY THE PARKS, RECREATION AND
CULTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT. BOARD MEMBER CLARKE SECONDED THE MOTION.
Board Member Tibbott asked if the City would have the ability to rename the park if the Foundation ceases to exist. Board
Member Johnson pointed out that Item 33 of the Park Naming Policy states that "parks and facilities named after individuals
shall not be changed unless it is found that because of the individual's character the continued use of their name would not be
in the best interest of the community."
THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. (Note: As an alternate, Board Member Ellis did not vote.)
BOARD MEMBER CLARKE MOVED THAT THE PLANNING BOARD RECOMMEND TO THE CITY
COUNCIL THE CREATION OF A PERMANENT PLAQUE THAT BEARS THE IMAGE OF HAZEL MILLER
AND A DISCRIPTION OF HER CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY THAT WILL REMAIN IN THE
PARK IN PERPETUITY. BOARD MEMBER STEWART SECONDED THE MOTION.
Board Member Clarke pointed out that the proposed plaque would be similar to the one that was installed at Hickman Park in
recognition of Robert O. Hickman.
Vice Chair Reed recalled that at the December 14th meeting it was discussed that the Parks staff would work with the
Foundation to design the sign. Ms. Hite emphasized that the sign would be designed to meet the City's adopted sign
standards. The Foundation understands this requirement, and they will have an opportunity to view the final mock up before
the sign is constructed. Vice Chair Reed asked if the motion on the floor would be consistent with the City's current sign
standard. Ms. Hite answered affirmatively. She said she supports the proposed motion, but she suggested the Board seek
feedback from the Foundation as to whether a sign with Hazel Miller's image would be acceptable to them before forwarding
the recommendation to the City Council.
Planning Board Minutes
January 11, 2012 Page 7
Board Member Clarke explained that there is value to the community to help future generations understand those who have
contributed throughout their lives. This kind of understanding and context is what often inspires other people to rise to
something better. It is a wonderful way to preserve history and create an inspiring memorial.
Mr. Bennett said the Foundation Board Members in attendance believe the entire Foundation Board would support the
concept of including Ms. Miller's image and a description of her contribution on a park sign. He noted that one Foundation
Board Member was a long-time friend of the Miller's, and he is certain he would support the idea, as well.
THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. (Note: As an alternate, Board Member Ellis did not vote.)
Board Member Johnson referred to a letter from Betty Larman of the Edmonds Floretum Garden Club, which talks about an
agreement that was signed by the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director and Mayor Haakenson. Ms. Hite said she
was unable to find a copy of the signed agreement in the City Clerk's office. Therefore, she concluded that the agreement
was likely never signed. Board Member Johnson said the letter from Ms. Larman also states that the original design included
a gazebo or bandstand structure. Ms. Hite explained that when the City Council charged her with completing the park,
several citizens expressed concern about the proposed design. She explored how the plan came about and met with members
of the Garden Club, including Ms. Larman, to discuss these concerns. Particular concerns were that the proposed bandstand
would block the view to businesses at Old Milltown, no utilities were identified in the plan to accommodate the structure,
and drainage issues were not considered. In addition, the Garden Club's process did not include public input.
As per the City Council's direction that she collaborate with the Garden Club to redesign the project, a committee of 20
individuals was formed, including members of the Citizens Economic Development Commission, Arts Festival Foundation,
Edmonds Floretum Garden Club, Alliance of Citizens for Edmonds, and Edmonds in Bloom. The committee reviewed the
Garden Club's plan and identified their concerns. Everyone agreed, including the Garden Club Members, that the bandstand
should be eliminated.
Board Member Johnson recalled that four couples contributed money specifically for the bandstand structure. She asked if
they have been notified of the design change. Ms. Hite answered that all four have confirmed their commitment to the park.
Ms. Hite reminded the Board that part of the Garden Club's proposed agreement with the City indicated that the Garden Club
would be responsible for maintaining the park in perpetuity. Several members of the Garden Club expressed concern that
they would not be able to fulfill this responsibility. It was agreed that the City would be responsible for park maintenance,
but the Garden Club would provide input on appropriate plant materials.
THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED.
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The Board discussed whether or not a Board Member was limited as to the number of terms he/she could serve as chair of
the Board. They agreed there was no limitation. Board Member Clarke pointed out that three Board Members' terms
(Lovell, Clarke and Stewart) expire at the end of 2012.
Board Member Johnson reminded the Board that they previously discussed the need to review and perhaps update their rules
and procedures. However, this task was not accomplished in 2011. Chair Lovell agreed to contact staff to schedule this
discussion on a future agenda.
BOARD MEMBER TIBBOTT NOMINATED BOARD MEMBER LOVELL AS CHAIR OF THE BOARD. THE
NOMINATION WAS SECONDED BY BOARD MEMBER CLARKE. THERE WERE NO OTHER
NOMINATIONS, AND THE NOMINATION WAS UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED.
BOARD MEMBER STEWART NOMINATED BOARD MEMBER CLOUTIER AS VICE CHAIR OF THE
BOARD. BOARD MEMBER REED SECONDED THE NOMINATION.
Planning Board Minutes
January 11, 2012 Page 8
Board Member Johnson commented that the City Council typically bases their chair and vice chair appointments on
longevity. She suggested the Board consider the same approach.
BOARD MEMBER JOHNSON NOMINATED BOARD MEMBER STEWART AS VICE CHAIR OF THE BOARD.
BOARD MEMBER LOVELL SECONDED THE NOMINATION.
THERE WERE NO OTHER NOMINATION, AND BOARD MEMBER STEWART WAS ELECTED VICE CHAIR
OF THE BOARD BY A VOTE OF 5-2. (Note: As an alternate, Board Member Ellis did not vote.)
REVIEW OF EXTENDED AGENDA
Chair Lovell reviewed the proposed schedule for Strategic Plan Stakeholder Focus Group Sessions as follows:
• January 171h at 7:00 p.m. — Parks and Recreation — Board Members Stewart and Reed would attend.
• January 18th at 1:00 p.m. — Transportation — Board Members Tibbott and Johnson would attend.
• January 181h at 7:00 p.m. — Economic Development — Board Members Lovell, Tibbott and Cloutier would attend.
• January 19th at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. — Individuals and Special Interest Groups
• January 24th at 6:45 p.m. — Joint meeting with the Economic Development Commission, Planning Board and City
Council.
Chair Lovell advised that he would work with staff to update the extended agenda to incorporate the Port of Edmonds'
Harbor Square Redevelopment Master Plan process, the Strategic Planning Process, and the Shoreline Master Program
Update. The Commission agreed to tentatively schedule their retreat for February 22" d. They also agreed to schedule a
review of the Park Naming Policy. Board Members were encouraged to review Portland's policy, which was forwarded to
them by Board Member Stewart.
PLANNING BOARD CHAIR COMMENTS
Chair Lovell did not make any additional comments during this portion of the meeting.
PLANNING BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
Board Member Stewart challenged the Board Members to use electronic versions of the documents that are prepared for each
meeting. They should set an example for City staff and others to use less paper. She said she recently read a study that
indicated the City of Seattle uses 74 million sheets of paper each year, which would equal 40 space needles in height. She
cautioned that the environmental impact associated with this high level of paper use is substantial. She shared other facts
brought out in the City of Seattle study and said she plans to conduct a similar review for the City of Edmonds.
Board Member Clarke thanked Board Member Reed for serving as vice chair of the Board for the past year. He noted that
Board Member Reed has served on the Board since October 24, 2006. He thanked him for his leadership contribution. He
also thanked Chair Lovell and Board Member Stewart for accepting the responsibility to lead the Board in 2012.
ADJOURNMENT
The Board meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
Planning Board Minutes
January 11, 2012 Page 9