2023-10-17 Regular MeetingEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APPROVED MINUTES
October 17, 2023
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Mike Nelson, Mayor
Neil Tibbott, Council President
Vivian Olson, Councilmember
Will Chen, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
Susan Paine, Councilmember
Dave Teitzel, Councilmember
Jenna Nand, Councilmember
1. CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE
STAFF PRESENT
Dave Turley, Administrative Services Director
Oscar Antillon, Public Works Director
Angie Feser, Parks, Rec., & Human Serv. Dir.
Jessica Neill Hoyson, HR Director
Rob English, City Engineer
Shannon Burley, Deputy Parks, Rec., & Human
Serv. Dir.
Mike Clugston, Senior Planner
Amber Brokenshire, Associate Planner
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Scott Passey, City Clerk
Jerrie Bevington, Camera Operator
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7 p.m. by Mayor Nelson in the Council
Chambers, 250 5t' Avenue North, Edmonds, and virtually. The meeting was opened with the flag salute.
2. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Councilmember Chen read the City Council Land Acknowledge Statement: "We acknowledge the original
inhabitants of this place, the Sdohobsh (Snohomish) people and their successors the Tulalip Tribes, who
since time immemorial have hunted, fished, gathered, and taken care of these lands. We respect their
sovereignty, their right to self-determination, and we honor their sacred spiritual connection with the land
and water."
3. ROLL CALL
City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present.
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PAINE, TO
APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
POSTPONE ITEM 10.1, PARKLAND ACQUISITION PURCHASE & SALE AGREEMENT - MEE
PROPERTY, TO A FUTURE MEETING SO IT CAN GO TO THE PLANNING BOARD FIRST PER
CODE.
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Councilmember Buckshnis acknowledged this was part of the code, but in the 13 years she has been on
council, parkland acquisition has never gone to the planning board. She was unsure the code was archaic
or if Councilmember Olson felt this was necessary.
Councilmember Olson responded the director has been consulted and all parties are excited about this going
forward and that there is no risk in it going to the planning board. Since the code says it should, the code
needs to be revisited and changed if that is not how the council wants to operate.
AMENDMENT CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Dean Olson read comments from Don Torrez who is out of town; tonight we're here to ask for ADA
budget help. The Americas with Disabilities Act is 33 years old. Edmonds still has several lagging ADA
challenges to fix, some date back to 1990. I am a late deafened Washington resident, born in Washington
State and a UW graduate. To understand words at events like city council meetings, I need captions and
assistive technology. Some ask me, why not simply stay home, turn on the TV captions or Netflix captions?
I prefer to attend events at public spaces and participate. Lack of accommodations is why I skip many public
events. Asking for accommodations and navigating public spaces with a disability is work. When we
request an accommodation, and the response is, 1) a knee jerk no, or 2) silence, we become demoralized
and disrespected AND makes us less likely to put ourselves out there next time. Looking back 25 years, if
the 1998 Edmonds city council had set a budget to work on the ADA for 25 years, we'd have an Edmonds
Kind of Day for all today. Additionally, many ADA challenges are inexpensive, but unfixed. That's a
cultural challenge. Edmonds city council culture has not been proactive. In 1993 ADA Transition Plans
were required. In 2017, it appears the first and only Edmonds ADA Transition Plan was completed. The
plan's goals were largely unfunded and are incomplete. For over 25 years and multiple city councils,
Edmonds sadly kicked the accessibility can down the road. We are asking Edmonds to create an aggressive
multi -year ADA budget. I look forward to saying the 2023 city council was visionary and worked for the
next generation. If we act this year, we will begin 2024 with major ADA work. In conclusion, please create
a budget to resolve our ADA budget challenges by 2030. Please lead with a positive attitude toward the
ADA, treat ADA input with respect, work collegially in a bipartisan way, and listen to our better angels.
Thank you for serving Edmonds as elected officials, working 40 to 60 hours per week. Your work to keep
our city safe and beautiful is appreciated.
Jeanne Slonaker relayed she has a master's degree in counseling and psychology and has been a mental
health therapist for a good portion of her adult life as well as an advocate for people with illness and
disability. She has a good handle on navigating life with disability as well as helping others navigate life
with disability. A member of society for over 50 years, born and raised in Washington State, she has lived
with a mobility challenged disability her entire life as well as a metabolic condition for about 4/5ths of her
life. She is well versed in what she needs and what it takes to navigate life with disability and illness. The
ADA has been helpful, but there is far to go until the world truly becomes accessible with a universal design
concept. Where navigating public spaces is concerned, while her colleague used language such as I prefer,
she believed it was her right and the City's responsibility to ensure her ability to attend public events, public
spaces and all the things her able-bodied friends, colleagues and family members are able to participate in.
Putting accessible entrances and parking spaces at opposite sides of the building or event space is not
accessible; for example, she did not park in the accessible parking spaces for this building because she
would have had to walk up a hill and the spaces were not close to the entrance. That is not accessible.
Having ramps instead of stairs is a universal design concept; there need to be electric doors at all entrances,
curb ramps on all curbs at all intersections, accessible parking spaces in all neighborhoods especially the
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downtown corridor where most events are held, and public spaces like parks need to be accessible with
paved ramps or paved areas for people with mobility challenges.
Alan Bine referred to his letter to the editor of the Edmonds Beacon regarding the Edmonds Driftwood
Players, one of the longest running playhouses in the State of Washington, operating continuously for 65
years. Blind people like himself want to support those productions and need "audio description." He did
not know a great deal about audio description, but had been told it was relatively inexpensive and the
Driftwood Players community engagement director said they would love to have a request for information
so a grant can be submitted. Several years ago Edmonds spent nearly $500,000 on new public restrooms
which were very needed. Audio description would be a good thing to add to the Driftwood Players theater,
the same kind of technology used on television and in some movie theaters so people who cannot see wear
headsets and the action is described for them. He hoped the council would take action on this in the near
future.
Conrad Reynoldson relayed he has a law degree from the UW after graduating summa cum laude from
Seattle Pacific. He founded a 501(c)(3) nonprofit disabilities rights law firm in Seattle, Washington Civil
& Disability Advocate, in 2017 to advocate for the disability community in Washington state and beyond
through systemic litigation, education, and legislative advocacy. He also serves as a commissioner on the
Washington Advisory Committee to the US Commission on Civil Rights and is an at large board member
of the Washington Attorneys with Disabilities Association. Title II of the ADA applies to all State and local
governments and all departments, agencies, special purpose districts, and other instrumentalities of State
and local government. It applies to all programs, services or activities of public entities, from adoption
services to zoning regulations and also includes contractors the City works with who the City has an
obligation to ensure they do not discriminate against people with disabilities. He was told that the city is
planning on a new ADA Transition Plan in the next couple years. The city should be aware that the USDOT
has sidewalk funds that it is dispersing to municipalities across the country. The sidewalk funds depend on
prerequisites such as an up-to-date ADA plan and a grant application that follows the proper format. The
USDOT will only give funds with matching funds and proper grant paperwork. He joined with Dean Olson
and others gathered here tonight to speak in support of a formal ADA budget and to request a budget of
$5,000,000 annually for ten years to catch up and pay off the backlog and fix ADA challenges. This funding
is long overdue as the ADA has been the law of the land for over 30 years. That said, many of the changes
that still need to be made could be considered low hanging fruit and would come at low or no cost.
Accessibility is not a luxury, it is a fundamental right. It is both a legal and moral imperative that we
maintain the integrity of the ADA and ensure that Edmonds remains a safe and inclusive space for all
residents.
Emily Riggle, Edmonds, accompanied by other five members of the Environmental Service Club at
Edmonds-Woodway High School, relayed their belief that the mayor needs to create a climate action
manager position essential for the implementation of climate policy and public advocacy. They requested
additional funding be added to this position's budget so they can implement policies more effectively. This
position will ensure that when coordinating with other department, the environment is factored into every
decision. Ultimately, they want to see change and progress toward reaching the goals stated in the climate
action plan. Over the past week, they gathered signatures throughout the community and their school to
raise awareness about this position. At least 260 people agreed the city should fund a climate action
manager. When this is approved, the youth of Edmonds will have more faith in the city's ability to pass
legislation and policies regarding the protection of our environment. They hoped the adoption of this
position helps inspire similar action in cities and counties across Washington State. This ensures that our
city can promote environmental equity and justice for all residents. As high schoolers, they urge the city
council to commit to safeguarding their futures. Without funding for this position, they risk not having a
livable future at all.
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Jim Ogonowski, Edmonds, acknowledged the citizens advocating for ADA, explaining his dad became
disabled later in life so he knew secondhand the challenges they experience. He applauded their
contributions tonight. With regard to utility rates, he appreciated the nice presentation and packet of
information provided at the council's special meeting preceding this meeting. One thing that stood out to
him was that there are no physical policies for utilities. That is very important and is indicative of the
financial situation the council will discuss later.
Darrol Haug, Edmonds, commented federal COVID funds helped many families and the ARPA funds are
helping the city. The city council has done a good job of identified plans for using those funds.
Approximately $8 million in ARPA funds remain and the federal government has loosened the rules on
how those funds can be used for one-time projects. The council has already funded additions for the
Edmonds School District, and possibly ARPA funds could be used to fund the Meadowdale Preschool.
ARPA funds are beginning to show up in the CIP and other areas of the budget. Given this new freedom
regarding the use of ARPA funds on a one-time basis, he suggested the council hold a public meeting to
help the public understand how the funds were originally planned to be used, how they are currently being
used, what remains, and what categories of expenses are being funded. The public may have some new,
helpful ideas for using the ARPA funds more effectively. It appears the council will be asked to use ARPA
funds as a type of bandaid to support some of the CIP shortfalls. In fact, CIP shortfalls are so great, a
bandaid won't work, and probably a tourniquet will be needed. The council will be asked to approve
changes to the timing of certain CIP projects; last year's CIP scheduled the repair of the leak in the library
roof in 2028. There has been knowledge of the leak since 2003, it was investigated by outside consultants
and a plan was outlined for the repair in 2018 with repairs occurring in 2028. The CIP now extends that
into 2029. He urged the council to find a way to move that project up in the CIP so the library roof leak can
be fixed.
Larry Watkinson, Olympia, explained his wife grew up and attended school in Edmonds, was a resident
of Edmonds for a number of years and they have looked at Edmonds as a retirement area. They are both
blind, she is low vision and he is totally blind. When they visited relatives in Edmonds, there is unmanaged
vegetation growing over residential sidewalks that are technically in the city's right-of-way. When he tried
to review the ADA Transition Plan and other areas of the website that address ADA issues, he realized the
city's website lacks ADA compliance; PDF documents are completely inaccessible to him as a blind user
using Job Access with Windows Speech. If the city updates its ADA Transition Plan, that talks about what
the city plans to do. He sometimes tells people you admit your sins and the way you get absolution is to fix
them. He suggested absolution only comes through resolution. He recommended the city not just plan to
fix their website, but instead send staff to training and have them learn how to develop accessible websites
and develop accessible documents and everyone becomes equal in the process. He questioned what the
citizens of Edmonds would say if there were segments of the community not allowed to participate because
of race, sex or gender, but yet those in the disability world face that rejection every single day, perhaps not
intentional, but kicking the can down the road serves nobody and raises the level of expense overall to
address the concerns. He wanted to consider Edmonds for retirement and with the council's help, they
would likely be attracted back to Edmonds where his wife enjoyed her childhood. He thanked the council
for their public service, recognizing it was not easy to be a councilmember.
Natalie Seitz, Edmonds, expressed her enthusiastic support for the Mee property purchase. She thanked
the Mee family for selling the property to the City for below appraisal and Director Feser and Parks staff
for pursuing this opportunity and the grant funding and thanked the administration and council for
considering this opportunity. The Parks staff have been incredible resourceful with limited infrastructure in
this underserved area for a long time. She hoped this purchase would help fill some of the gaps and fuel
further investment in the SR 99 communities. She also encouraged further investment in this area and the
west side of SR 99 which currently has no safe, walkable access to park resources. She pointed out that
even with this investment, Mathay Ballinger Park will still be below the neighborhood park minimum of
three acres identified in Edmonds code. This will not accommodate sports field type recreation for older
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youth and with this purchase, the area in south Edmonds will still trail far behind north Edmonds and Five
Corners and far, far behind downtown in per capita park resources. She reflected on a sentiment many have
shared with her over the years since she became active in local politics and began advocating for park
resources, that the City would not be able to get grant funding for this area, shouldn't invest near SR 99,
and cannot prioritize sites that are developed, yet the City is getting 75% grant funding for the Mee site and
recently got 2/3 grant funding for a future stormwater site on Lake Ballinger. This is a testament to Director
Feser's efforts as well as many grant funding streams shifting to consider equity. She contrasted this with
her understanding that the city secured approximately $3.5M in grant funding for Civic Playfield, also a
testament to Parks staff. She did not know the full cost for that project, but from what she understood, it
represented about 25% of the cost. The Mee property is 75% grant funded and the stormwater property is
66% grant funded. She envisioned the possibilities and how far local money could be extended if
investments were sited in the SR 99 corridor.
Lu Loree, Edmonds, brought attention to a matter very important to her and to the future of Edmonds, the
proposal to hire a climate action manager. One has only to watch the evening news to hear about the effects
of climate change that are being experienced around the world including floods in New York City, stronger
hurricanes in Florida, and wildfires in California and British Columbia. Climate change is real and it is here
now. If it can happen in those places, it can also happen in Edmonds. She referred to the heat dome of a
couple years ago, the flooding downtown when the city's stormwater system couldn't keep up, the smokey
skies from surrounding wildfires, commenting that is what has already happened and will continue to
happen if climate change is not tackled. It will take time to stop and reverse what's happen. Part of a climate
action manager's job will be to implement adaptation plans to make Edmonds resilient to the inevitable
disasters that lie ahead. A climate action manager must do much more than shore up defenses; the
undeniable fact is the atmosphere is being filled with more and more greenhouse gases every year and if
there is a chance of survival, that needs to stop. Almost everything we do involves energy directly or
indirectly, drive a car, heat your home, cook your food, it all takes energy and the source of that energy in
the majority of cases is the burning of fossil fuels including coal, oil, natural gas, and petroleum. The answer
is transitioning away from fossil fuel as a source of energy, a huge job that will not happen automatically,
transitions never do. It will take everyone participating and sacrificing. For example spending money to
convert gas burning appliances and devices to clean energy alternatives. This too will be part of a climate
action manager's job, to educate and inspire the public to make these hard choices. Councilmembers also
have a role to play such as using their public position to encourage the people of Edmonds to get serious
about climate change by being the example that others can follow. By the council's words and actions, they
can show the public what needs to be done. She urged the council to first hire the climate action manager.
6. RECEIVED FOR FILING
1. CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FOR FILING
2. MAYOR YOUTH COMMISSION APPOINTMENT
3. COUNCIL APPOINTMENT TO A BOARD/COMMISSION
4. WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS
7. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCILMEMBER PAINE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER CHEN, TO
APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items
approved are as follows:
1. APPROVAL OF SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 3, 2023
2. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 3, 2023
3. APPROVAL OF SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 10, 2023
4. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL AND BENEFIT CHECKS, DIRECT DEPOSIT AND WIRE
PAYMENTS
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Page 5
5. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS AND WIRE PAYMENTS
6. APPROVAL OF SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH WSP FOR CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT SERVICES ON THE 76TH AVE OVERLAY PROJECT
7. APPROVAL OF SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH SCJ FOR HIGHWAY 99
STAGE 2
8. APPROVAL OF SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH WSP FOR HIGHWAY 99
REVITALIZATION & GATEWAY PROJECT
9. AMENDING ECC 5.05.122 FA-AMMENDING THE DANGEROUS DOG STATUTE
10. AMENDING ECC 5.01.010-ADOPTION OF RCW 9.94A.835 (SPECIAL ALLEGATION -
SEXUAL MOTIVATION)
11. AMENDING ECC 5.36.045-CREATION OF THE CRIME OF VEHICLE TRESPASS
12. VERDANT GRANT ACCEPTANCE
8. CLOSED RECORD REVIEW
1. PLN2023-0024 REZONE AT 9530 & 9620 EDMONDS WAY
[Due to technical difficulties, staff s PowerPoint was not displayed. The PowerPoint was provided in the
council packet.]
Mayor Nelson read the procedures for the Closed Record Review. The closed record hearing is on the
planning board's recommendation to approve a rezone for two parcels located at 9530 and 9620 Edmonds
Way from Multiple Residential Edmonds Way (RM-EW) and Multiple Residential (RM-1.5) to
Community Business Edmonds Way (BC-EW), He opened the hearing on file number PLN2023-0024.
Mayor Nelson continued, an open record public hearing has already been held before the planning board.
This hearing is a closed record hearing which means the council's consideration is limited to the record
created before the planning board. Only those who participated at the planning board hearing will be given
an opportunity to be heard during this closed record hearing. Anyone who participated at the open record
hearing who wishes to speak again during the closed record hearing may not introduce new facts that were
not presented to the planning board. The city council will be acting in a quasi-judicial capacity on this
agenda item. In other words, for this item, the councilmembers will be acting like judges, not legislators.
Because councilmembers will be acting like judges, the hearing must be fair in form and substance as well
as appearance. In order to assure the hearing is both fair and appears to be fair, he will ask all
councilmembers to make certain disclosures if applicable in response to a series of questions.
With regard to bias, Mayor Nelson asked if any councilmember had interest in this property or issue.
Councilmembers Nand, Buckshnis, Olson, Chen, Paine and Teitzel and Council President Tibbott answered
they did not.
Mayor Nelson asked if any councilmember stands to gain or lose any financial benefit as a result of the
outcome of this hearing. Councilmembers Nand, Buckshnis, Olson, Chen, Paine and Teitzel and Council
President Tibbott answered no.
Mayor Nelson asked if each councilmember could hear and consider this in a fair and objective manner.
Councilmembers Nand, Buckshnis, Olson, Chen, Paine and Teitzel and Council President Tibbott answered
they could.
With regard to ex parte contact, Mayor Nelson asked if any member of the council had engaged in
communication outside the public hearing with opponents or proponents on the issue to be heard. If so, the
member must place on the record the substance of any such communication so other interested parties may
have the right to rebut the substance of the communication. Councilmembers Nand, Buckshnis, Olson,
Chen, Paine and Teitzel and Council President Tibbott answered they had not.
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Mayor Nelson asked if any councilmember would be recusing themselves for any reason and if so, the
recusing councilmember should state the reason for their recusal. No councilmembers recused themselves.
Mayor Nelson asked if any audience member objected to his or any councilmembers' participation in the
hearing. If objection exists, the objector must state the reason for the objection. There was no one in the
audience that objected to the mayor or council's participation.
Associate Planner Amber Brokenshire reviewed:
Overview
o Applicant requested rezone from Multiple Residential — Edmonds Way (RM-EW) to
Community Business — Edmonds Way (BC-EW) for property at 9530 Edmonds Way
■ Addition of adjacent PUD substation (zoned RM-1.5) at 9620 Edmonds Way
■ The adjacent parcel, the PUD substation at 9620 Edmonds Way was added to the proposal
o Recommendation
■ Following a public hearing on August 23 and September 13, the planning board
recommended approval of the rezone of both parcels.
Senior Planner Mike Clugston advised packet pages 153 and 154 contain a zoning map of the area and an
aerial photo for orientation.
Ms. Brokenshire continued:
Addition of PUD Substation at 9620 Edmonds Way
o Parcel was not originally part of the applicant's proposal
o During the July 26 introduction to the proposal, planning board members inquired about
adding the adjacent PUD substation to provide a consistent zoning in this portion of
Edmonds Way
o City staff reached out to PUD on July 27 asking about including the property as part of the
rezone proposal
o PUD confirmed in an August 7 email (Attachment 9) that they had no objections to the
proposed zoning change
o Proposal boundaries have been expanded to include both properties
Site Context
o The proposal includes two parcels fronting Edmonds Way
o Both parcels are largely level toward Edmonds Way
o The eastern site, 9530 Edmonds Way, has remained undeveloped after being rezoned from
RM-1.5 to RM-EW in 2022
Rezone Review Criteria
o Per ECDC 20.40.010, the planning board review shall at least consider the following factors in
reviewing a proposed rezone
■ Comprehensive Plan
■ Zoning Ordinance
■ Surrounding Area
■ Changes
■ Suitability
■ Value
Mr. Clugston advised the rezone review criteria is summarized on packet pages 115 and 116. The packet
includes the planning board's minutes with their analysis. Their final decision is on packet page 197.
Ms. Brokenshire continued her presentation:
• Comprehensive plan and compatible zoning
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o Comprehensive Plan Designation - Edmonds Way Corridor
o Compatible Zoning - BP, BN, BC, or similar commercial zone and RM zones
o A rezone to BC-EW for both parcels would be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan
designation and would not require SEPA review for the rezone
■ SEPA review required at project stage
• Zoning Analysis
o A rezone to BC-EW would allow for increased densities, reduced setbacks, a smaller floor area
ratio, and an increased height allowance with additional site development standards for
buildings fronting Edmonds Way.
o The rezone request is consistent with the purposes of the zoning ordinance and would be
consistent with the comp plan while helping to achieve a variety of housing types.
• Surrounding Area
o Western lot is developed with a PUD substation
o Eastern lot is undeveloped
o Design review is underway for the lot included in last year's rezone (not included in this rezone)
o Multi -family zoning east and west of the subject properties
o Properties to east could be developed with a mix of MF & SF, could develop to MF with the
current RM designation.
o Edmonds Way north of sites.
o Single family residential south (approx. 26' change in elevation)
o BC-EW allows buildings fronting Edmonds Way to increase height to 40 feet with additional
development requirements. (ECDC 16.30.020)
o Sites north of Edmonds Way have already been rezoned to BC-EW
• Rezone is consistent with the six criteria in ECDC 20.40.010.
• Design standards and development regulations will ensure the public health, safety and welfare are
protected
• Planning board recommended council approve the zone from RM-EW and RM-1.5 to BC-EW.
Applicant
Shawn Leiser, Shoreline, explained he grew up in Edmonds attended Edmonds schools, is invested in the
Edmonds community, and spends many evenings with his family in Edmonds. He applied for a rezone in
2022 which was approved. At that time, comments were positive and had a similar outcome. One of the
comments made by council in 2022 was an interest in increased density, a goal this rezone will achieve by
adding density which is lacking in Edmonds. The property is in the Edmonds Way Corridor and meets all
the comprehensive plan goals.
Public Comments
There were no participants in the open record hearing who wished to provide comment.
Mayor Nelson relayed the council may ask clarifying questions but may not ask for information outside the
record.
Councilmember Buckshnis observed the planning board was concerned about traffic and ingress and egress
as a result of this new density and she did not see a resolution to that. She asked whether a traffic impact
study would be done. Mr. Leiser answered his parcel and the abutting parcel to the east plan to co -develop
in the future and the current plan is to have shared driveway access so multiple parcels share a single
ingress/egress which will help with the impact to Edmonds Way. Ms. Brokenshire answered any
transportation impacts will be addressed during the development phase, not during the rezone phase. A
traffic study will be required with the development.
Councilmember Teitzel referred to the parcel at 9620 Edmonds Way, the PUD parcel adjacent to 9530
Edmonds Way and asked why staff decided to rezone the PUD site at the same time. He asked if it was
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October 17, 2023
Page 8
envisioned the substation would be eliminated and the property developed at some point in the future. He
asked the logic for rezoning the PUD site. Ms. Brokenshire answered the planning board asked whether
that parcel could be included in the proposal to create consistent zoning to the corner. There are no
development proposals for the PUD substation and there is no intent to sell or redevelop the parcel, it was
just to create consistent zoning.
Councilmember Paine assumed part of requirements for the development are public benefits and she
recognized that would be addressed in the development phase.
Council President Tibbott asked how building heights in that area affect neighbors, especially those on top
of the hill and how that has been addressed. Mr. Leiser answered there is an approximately 26 foot height
difference between the top of hill and his parcel so there is already a large gradient between the two which
helps with abutting land and zones. With regard to Councilmember Teitzel's question about zoning, he
commented it is helpful to have similar zones next to each other so there are consistent setbacks. There is a
large grade difference between the parcel and the back half of the property is treed. The goal would be to
retain trees to create additional buffer.
Ms. Brokenshire referred to specific site development standards for the zone on packet page 141. While it
states the height limit may be increased to 40 feet, there are several site development standards they have
the option to opt into and a few that are required. The setbacks of any proposed building shall be 15 feet in
depth from the street. The property abuts a RS zoned property so there should be modulation of the design.
There would need to be a 15-foot setback from rear property line, however, the site is sloped toward the
back of the property so if development on or near the slope was proposed, a geotechnical report would be
required. She summarized there would be additional requirements to develop to that height.
Mr. Clugston advised the maximum height for the BC-EW zone can be up to 40 feet with those other design
standards. The maximum height for the current zone, RM-EW, is a base of 25 feet which can be increased
to 35 feet with additional design standards.
Council President Tibbott asked if the top of the hill was 26 feet higher than the building or were the
buildings 26 feet higher than the hill. Ms. Brokenshire answered the hill is 26 feet higher at the top.
Councilmember Buckshnis observed there appears to be a pocket forest on the site and asked if he planned
to retain as many trees as possible. Mr. Leiser answered that is the plan.
Mayor Nelson closed the public hearing, advising the council may now deliberate and take action.
Councilmember Olson advised during the opportunity for public comment, Mayor Nelson checked and
there was no one on Zoom who wished to participate, but that had not been stated for the record. Mayor
Nelson agreed no one on Zoom wished to speak during the public hearing.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT TIBBOTT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PAINE, TO
APPROVE THE RECOMMENDATION BY THE PLANNING BOARD AND APPROVE THE
REZONE FOR THIS PARCEL.
Councilmember Teitzel questioned whether the council could approve the application tonight and suggested
the council could direct staff to create a resolution to approve at a future meeting. Mr. Taraday advised
Councilmember Teitzel was correct, if the council concurs with the planning board, the recommended
action is to direct staff to prepare an ordinance for adoption on a future consent agenda.
Council President Tibbott restated the motion:
DIRECT STAFF TO PREPARE AN ORDINANCE FOR ADOPTION ON A FUTURE CONSENT
AGENDA
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 9
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
9. PUBLIC HEARING
2024 BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING #1
Administrative Services Director Dave Turley advised the proposed budget was delivered to council a little
over two weeks ago so it is early in the process. Three public hearings are required for the budget process.
This year, in the interest of transparency and providing additional opportunity for the public to provide
comment and to have direct interaction with the council, there will be four public hearings. Although the
budget has only been out two weeks, that is enough time for citizens to look through it and begin to form
opinions to share with council. This public hearing is on the entire City budget including utilities, CIP, etc.,
not just the General Fund.
Mayor Nelson opened the public hearing.
Jay Grant, Edmonds, advised the 2024 budget had $53,000 for the restrooms at the fishing pier which are
not in good condition; $20,000 was delayed to 2025 and $30,000 to 2026 with no increase. He suggested if
the project was delayed, which he hoped it would not be, it would likely cost more than $53,000. The budget
is proposing a reduction in property taxes assuming the City will join South County Fire (SCF) which would
alleviate money paid by the City. He urged caution, advising that is a tax tradeoff to the consumer. He was
not opposed to the Regional Fire Authority (RFA), but everything needs to be considered including losing
the ability for the council to have direct impact on what SCF does, giving up the City's voice with regard
to fire and EMS. With regard to the enforcement cameras, he observed $24 million was budgeted for
enforcement. Lynnwood has 11 cameras, 2 for schools, and 8 for intersection, and they issue 36,000 red
light citations and project $12.5 million in revenue. He urged the council to look carefully at the revenue
projections.
Jim Ogonowski, Edmonds, suggested the budget discussions start with an understanding of the beginning
fund balance which is less than what the reserve policy requires; the City is already in the hole which the
council needs to recognize and acknowledge. It was his understanding only the council can approve the
administration spending emergency reserves to cover General Fund expenditures. After that starting point,
he recommended the council ensure they understood the imbedded assumptions in the budget such as a
property tax increase that uses banked capacity to supplement budget. The budget also assumes payments
for fire and EMS services will be eliminated starting in 2025; there is no decision package related to that
assumption. The budget also assumes revenue from red light cameras. There is no basis for the inflationary
factors imbedded in the budget and inflationary factors have a pronounced effect as they compound year
over year. The budget also uses ARPA funds to bail out the General Fund. Assumptions should be part of
the decision packages and the council should determine whether they agree with those assumptions, and if
not, determine alternate assumptions and have the budget rerun based on the assumptions the council agrees
to. He personally did not consider the 2024 budget barebones; it was tailored to scare the council into
making decisions in a non -transparent manner and he believed there were reasonable alternatives to the
budget as proposed.
Grant Gladow, Edmonds, expressed his appreciation to the council for their dedication to serving the
needs of the community. He extended his thanks to the council for their unanimous approval of the City's
2023 climate action plan. Good intentions 13 years led to the adoption of Edmonds' first climate action
plan in 2010. Unfortunately, due to the lack of an implementation plan, none of the goals in the private
sector of the plan were met. Now it is imperative that the same good intentions initiated by this council last
March with approval of the 2023 CAP be enacted. To do so, the City needs to hire a climate action manager
and a grants manager as proposed in the 2024 budget. Volunteers including the climate protection
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 10
committee should be commended for their efforts, but dedicated staff is paramount to effective coordination
and implementation of Edmonds climate action goals. He did not want the attention via unanimous approval
of the 2023 climate plan to dissipate or to allow the plan to languish on City office shelves. Instead, he
supported hiring accountable personnel to lead and propel the City to walk the talk.
Darrol Haug, Edmonds, expressed concern with having only three minutes to digest the budget and offer
questions and ideas. He hoped the council would find a way to include public input for Thursday's meeting
when further discussion on the budget will occur. He offered key observations following a quick glance at
the budget: there are six more years on the fire contact with SCF and the City pays the full cost including a
contribution to their overhead. The vast majority of costs are for labor. The budget shows a $2.5 million
increase in 2024; the good news is the recently released SCF budget shows only a $627,000 increase in
costs this year, a 5.7% increase compared with the 25% estimate in the budget. Taxpayers pay $10 million
of direct taxes, about $0.70/$1000 AV to support fire. The Edmonds budget shows taxpayers will pay an
additional $14 million based on the current data in the SCF budget sheets, about $1.26/$1000 AV. The total
tax bill will grow from $10 million to $20 million. A better solution may be not to tamper with the fire
contract, but advance a levy to the public related to the cost of labor in the City budget. Adding 20 people
to the staff in 2023 and paying the labor contracts and associated non -represented employees contracts truly
adds to labor costs and the City has yet to settle the police contract which likely will add to labor costs. A
labor levy could be in the range of $4-6 million and possibly more, but substantially less than $12-14 million
in the budget calculations for fire service. He thanked Councilmember Buckshnis for starting this
conversation and helping the public understand the budget in her earlier discussions with the public. Many
other councilmembers have had public discussions in and around the City which was also useful for the
public to begin to learn how difficult it is to manage all aspects of the budget.
Joe Scordino, Edmonds, commented it was obvious to him that the City has a budget crisis this year, not
just a problem, due to overspending in 2023 and projected overspending in the future. There are things that
will get the City over the hump now, but that will affect the future which troubled him with regard to what
steps are taken. It is time to take new steps and new approaches. This year community volunteers put in
over 650 hours restoring the Edmonds Marsh, not one cent of City money went into that. It was a huge
contribution to the City, to City property, to resources for the community. He suggested thinking outside
the box with regard to doing things as a community and not burdening taxpayers. With regard to the budget,
given the current situation, instead of acknowledging the budget spends into reserves, this should be the
year that reserves are increased, banking for the future when it is clear problems are coming. He suggested
the council not just look at decision packages, but do a budget scrub. For example, travel costs; why are
there travel costs in the budget? Staff should travel within the City not outside. He suggested looking at the
discretionary funds for each department, how much is budgeted, how much they really need and how are
they using it. Instead of only looking at new expenses, he suggested looking at current expenses. Given the
budget situation, there should be a hiring freeze and say no to the new positions requested in the budget.
He agreed with the need to oversee implementation of the climate action plan but there is also a need to
oversee implementation of the urban forest management plan, the shoreline master plan, and other plans
that are not being implemented. He suggested instead of new positions, the council assign a percentage of
each department's budget to overseeing one of those plans and make them accountable. There doesn't need
to be new people hired to make department heads accountable; the council can do it via the budget. The
council has a tough job ahead and he hoped they worked with the public to come up with new and creative
ways to address the budget crisis.
With no further public comment, Mayor Nelson closed the public hearing.
COUNCILMEMBER PAINE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT TIBBOTT, TO
ACCEPT THE COMMENTS FROM PEOPLE EARLIER THIS EVENING SUCH AS THE GROUP
REGARDING ADA DECISIONS AND THE STUDENTS PRESENTING ABOUT THE CLIMATE
ACTION MANAGER POSITION AS PART OF THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 11
Councilmember Buckshnis recalled this issue occurred in 2021 when the public was not given sufficient
time to provide public comment at a particular meeting. She asked if the council was allowed to take regular
public comment and add it to the public hearing. City Attorney Jeff Taraday explained there is a difference
between a quasi-judicial hearing like the one the council had on the rezone tonight and a legislative hearing
like what is being held regarding the budget. With a legislative hearing, the council gets its information
whenever/wherever it wants and the public hearing is one of those opportunities to inform the council.
Distinguishing between public comment and the budget public hearing is not quite as critical when deciding
on a legislative matter versus a quasi-judicial matter. Councilmember Buckshnis said for that reason she
will not support the motion because it was already public comment.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCILMEMBERS TEITZEL, CHEN, OLSON,
PAINE AND NAND AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT TIBBOTT VOTING YES; COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO.
10. COUNCIL BUSINESS
1. PARKLAND ACQUISITION PURCHASE & SALE AGREEMENT - MEE PROPERTY
This item was removed from the agenda and referred to the planning board via action taken under Agenda
Item 4.
2. YEAR IN REVIEW / DECISION PACKAGE PRESENTATION
Parks, Recreation and Human Services
Parks, Recreation and Human Services Director Feser reviewed Department Overview/YTD 2023
Accomplishments and 2024 Operating & Capital Budget decision packages:
• Department Staff/Resources
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Mmntenance Program Manager Coordmator
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Worker (6) Coordinator
♦Park (7.6)
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•Interpretive
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♦Volunteers Leader (l.t)
.Contractors
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♦PT Staff
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♦Contractors
.Volunteers
o Staff:
■ 31 Full time
- 6 Part-time
- 25 hourly
- 6 LTE (9 months)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 12
o Operating budget $7,500,000
o Capital Budget $2,900,000
o Divisions: 4
o Advisory Groups: 3 (Youth Commission, Cemetery Board and Parks & Planning Board)
Administration/Park Development Division
o Direction of department/divisions
o Planning and Capital projects
o Land Acquisition
o Operating and capital budget
o Highlights
■ Civic Center Playfield Grand Opening & Project Closeout
■ Boys & Girls Club Ground Lease
■ Ballinger Park ILA with MLT
■ Park Maintenance Satellite Shop
■ Land Acquisition
■ Agreements — Concessionaire, Special Events and Lease
■ Library Flood / Plaza Room support
■ Memorial Benches/Picnic Tables
■ Operating Budget, CIP/CFP
■ De-escalation & Required NIMS Training Department Wide Capital projects
o Capital Projects
■ Civic Center Playfield (Project Mgmt transfer)
■ Johnson Property Demolition
■ Mathay Ballinger Park Improvements
o Major Maintenance Projects
■ Bracketts Landing North outdoor shower
■ Cemetery gate repair
■ Restroom doors/locks
• Parks Maintenance Division
o 20 full time and 6 LTE
o Routine maintenance
■ All parks/facilities
■ Outdoor public spaces
■ City street landscape and trees
■ Public restrooms (6)
o Small capital projects
o Volunteer project support
o Highlights
■ Park Maintenance Manager and Parks Lead Worker (internal promotions)
■ Recruited/Hired/Onboarded 6 FTEs, 6 LTEs and Mechanic
■ Trash/Litter: 128,000 lbs (64 tons)
■ Vandalism response: 24 instances
■ Beautification: 100 Hanging Baskets, 186 Flower Beds, and 75 Containers
■ Trees: 120 planted and 116 structurally pruned
■ Turf 16,000 miles mowed
■ Holiday Lights
■ Cemetery Burials and Inurnments Parks Maintenance projects
■ 5' and Dayton Xeriscape project
■ 5 Corners Roundabout beautification project
■ McAleer Boat Launch rehab
■ City Park Restoration project/fence
■ Occupied satellite park maintenance shop
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 13
■ Support special events (record number)
- Re -imagine Streets/City initiatives
- Winter and Summer Market, Arts Festival, 4' of July, Taste Edmonds, Car Show,
Oktoberfest, Halloween, Tree Lighting
■ Interurban Trail Vegetation Maintenance LOS increase
• Recreation Division
o Staff: 7 FTEs
o Frances Anderson Center
o Waterfront Center (limited)
o Rentals - shelters, fields, facilities
o Programs
- Direct/indirect
- Special events
o Environmental education
o Advertising/marketing/social
o Recreation Programming
■ Athletic Field Use & Reservation Policy
■ Published fee schedule
■ 39% increase in FB followers
■ 46% increase in Instagram followers
■ 115% increase in email database
■ Reservations
- 11 % increase infield rentals
- 500 shelter rentals - new record
Shelter Rentals 156 255 89 500
Athletic Fields (hrs) 58 2,187 1,989 4,234
Gym Rental (hrs) ' 11ei 140 171 427
■ Adult athletics/Leagues
Softball Ad 102 1,224
Basketball 11 66
Pickleball ` 89 178
Pickleball Clinics 106
Volleyball
Total Participants 2,122
■ Registration - 25% increase
- 76% increase in gymnastic participation
- 70 fitness/wellness classes - 150% increase
- 36 new programs - 69% increase
■ Sumer Day Camp
- 2nd - 6th grades, 10 weeks, 279 participants
- 33 full scholarships awarded
■ Contracted camps (45) - 46% increase
■ Meadowdale Preschool
■ Environmental education
- Visitor Station - 5,858 visitors
- K-6 Spring marine education - 2,550 kids
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 14
- Discovery camps - 5 weeks
- Discovery interpretative tables
City, Mathay-Ballinger and Olympic Beach Parks
- (4) Beach Ranger Naturalists patrolled beaches (Memorial Day - Labor Day) - 65 day
- Edmonds Stewards - 480 volunteer service hours
o Recreation Events
■ Starlight Beach Walk - 1/18
■ Sweetheart Dance - 2/25
■ Earth Day in our Parks - 4/22
■ Health and Fitness Expo - 5/13
■ Watershed Fun Fair - 5/13
■ Civic Park Grand Opening - 6/29
■ Outdoor Movies - 7/14, 21, 28 & 8/4
■ Storytime With Mermaid Madrigal - 8/5
■ Puget Sound Bird Fest - 9/10-11
■ Staff also supports citywide events including those such as the Arts Festival, Taste
Edmonds, Oktoberfest, Summer Markets, 4th of July, Car Show and more.
Human Services Division
o Staff. 1 FTE + 1 contracted social worker
o Collaboration with Edmonds Police Department
o Resource "hub" for community, provide touchpoint to put people in contract with services
o Urgent needs program
o Motel vouchers
o ARPA distribution
o Highlights
■ Coordinated services for 303 individuals 2023 Q1-Q3 (115% increase). Often individuals
present with multiple needs
■ Compass Health Social Worker embedded with PD
- Participates in community court
- Current client list of 45 + people
■ WSDOT relationship for ROW clean-ups
■ 211, DSHS out -stationing at neighborhood office on Highway 99
■ Free cell phone events
■ Snohomish County motel acquisition support
■ Household Support Grant support
■ State Department of Commerce Motel Voucher Program - continuation with new funds
2024 Operating Budget Decision Packages (2)
o Sound Salmon Solutions (DP #16) ongoing
■ Edmonds Stewards Volunteer Program
■ Covers staff time, tools and native plant materials
■ Supports habitat restoration, increase in tree canopy and control of invasive weeds
■ Expenditure: $6,000 increase for a new total of $16,000/year
■ Funding source: General Fund
o Park Maintenance Yard Lease (DP #17)
■ Council approved lease in 2023
■ Renews annually in August
■ Decision package for first 7 months of 2024
■ Expenditures: $49,000
■ Funding source: General Fund
2024 Capital Budget Decision Packages (5)
o Yost Park: Trails, Bridges, Tennis Court (DP #82)
■ Deferred maintenance
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 15
- Resurfacing tennis/pickleball courts ($74,300)
- Trail, bridge and boardwalk repairs/replacement ($80,000)
■ Expenditure: $154,3000
■ Funding Source: REET Fund 125
o Park Signage & Wayfinding Enhancements (DP #84)
■ Trail identification, orientation markers, safety and regulatory messaging, park hours, park
rules, and etiquette, interpretive information and warning signs
■ Expenditure: $75,000
■ Funding Source: REET Fund 125
o Mathay Ballinger Upgrade Completion (DP 486) carryforward
■ Permanent restroom
■ ADA parking and paved pathway to Interurban Trail
■ Shelter with picnic tables
■ Estimated 2024 cost: $271,300
■ Total project cost: $499,300
■ Funding source: REET Fund 125
o Ballinger Park ILA with Mountlake Terrace (DP #85) carryforward
■ Interlocal agreement with City of Mountlake Terrace to contribute to the Ballinger Lake
Park Phase 3 construction which provides improved access for Edmonds residents
■ Expenditure: $200,000
■ Funding Source: REET Fund 125
o Land Acquisition Support (DP #87) ongoing
■ Activities related to potential land acquisition
- Due diligence — appraisals, surveys, environment assessments
- Negotiations
- Research
- Writing and reviewing legal documents
- Consultant services (eliminates broker fees)
■ Estimated expenditure: $50,000
■ Funding source: REET Fund 126
2023 Q4 Upcoming
0 2024 budget
o Civic Park closeout
o Johnson property structure demolition
o Tree maintenance 5"i & Main St
o Mathay Ballinger Park improvements
o Restroom locks/new doors
o Street tree lights in downtown
o Fall/winter recreation programs
Councilmember Paine expressed interest in information regarding the broad demographic that is served via
human services. She recognized there are a lot of different needs in the community and it would be helpful
to understand the demographic that the program is serving.
Councilmember Nand congratulated Parks, Recreation & Human Services on the incredible work they are
doing. She wished the statistics included how much pet waste was removed from public parks, recalling
former Director Shane Hope indicating staff removed 200 pounds/week from the dog park during the
summer. Due to recent controversy regarding dog ownership and where dogs are allowed, that would be an
interesting statistic to highlight for the public. With regard to the Mathay Ballinger Upgrade/Completion,
she asked whether the ADA parking included adding surface area to the parking lot. Ms. Feser answered it
is resurfacing and restriping, new pavement in the area of the parking lot that is torn up to install utilities
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 16
for the restroom, and identifying ADA spaces as well as redoing a curb around the parking lot to provide
ADA access from the parking lot to the path.
Councilmember Nand asked if there was budget and/or space for a bike rack. Ms. Feser said if there isn't a
bike rack, there will be one, but she recalled there was one in the design. Councilmember Nand asked for
clarification on the signage from Merdian to 76t' for the Interurban Trail, noting bicyclists often get lost
trying to find the connection between Shoreline and Edmonds.
Councilmember Buckshnis expressed appreciation for the work the department does, and was glad funding
was being added to Sound Salmon Solutions because they do a great job. She advised through WRIA 8
grants, King County provides grants for beach rangers. She asked if Snohomish County had any grants to
supplement the beach ranger programs. Ms. Feser answered not that she was aware of but staff could look
into that. With regard to the dog park, Councilmember Buckshnis recalled reports that five tons of pet waste
was removed 5-10 years ago and she was certain the amount had increased since then due to the popularity
of the park.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to park signage and wayfinding enhancement and asked if all the signs
would be redone, agreeing they needed to be updated. Ms. Feser answered the first priority was the
waterfront from Bracketts Landing North to the dog park where there are conflicting signs and too much
signage which tends to make people ignore them. Councilmember Buckshnis commented people ignore the
signs because they look so bad and some are unreadable.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked if DP #87 was Longbay. Ms. Feser answered it is an allocation of $50,000
to continue that work and she preferred to continue using Longbay Enterprises. Councilmember Buckshnis
said she has already stated her opinion about using Longbay so she won't give it again.
Councilmember Teitzel referred to the level of service increase in vegetation maintenance on the Interurban
Trail. He asked how crews doing maintenance handle drug paraphernalia they encounter. Ms. Feser
answered staff are trained in blood borne pathogens, handling sharps, etc. They encounter a lot of biohazard
waste in park settings and are trained in how to protect themselves and appropriately dispose of that waste.
Councilmember Teitzel referred to DP #82, Yost Park: Trails, Bridges, Tennis Court, observing the photo
accompanying the decision package shows erosion under the footings of bridge that has been closed. He
asked if the erosion issue in the stream should be addressed before fixing the bridge, fearing the footings
may wash out again if that was not done. Ms. Feser said in her professional opinion, the entire length of
Shell Creek and problems with the erosion on that steam from property line to property line should be
studied as a whole including the trails, bridges, boardwalks, weirs, concrete fixtures, etc. to determine what
is causing the erosion, how to prioritize work moving forward, and the best fixes. It is not a one item fix, a
holistic approach is needed to be effective.
Councilmember Chen commented it was incredible how much work Parks does, noting he was one of the
500 rentals. He referred to DP #86, $271,000 for the existing Mathay Ballinger Park improvements. Ms.
Feser answered that is for work proposed to be done in 2024. The balance of the $499,000 was spent this
year. The project in its entirety will be about $500,000, some spent in 2023 and some in 2024. Assuming
the planning board recommends purchasing the Mee property and the city council agrees, Councilmember
Chen anticipated there would need to be a budget amendment in 2024. Ms. Feser answered it depends on
when/if the City takes possession of the property during the year and what needs to be done to secure it.
Funds are set aside for land acquisition and related expenses that are used on a project by project basis. She
envisioned a budget amendment in early 2024 for the Mee property once what needs to be done to secure
the property is established such as securing the house, fencing, outbuildings, etc. The owner stipulated they
may want to take some of the fencing which may need to be replaced. Staff will return with a
recommendation using land acquisition funds. The grant that was preliminarily awarded pays for 75% of
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 17
securing the site as well, so the City will only pay 25% of those expenses. Councilmember Chen commented
that was awesome news and thanked staff for their work on that.
Councilmember Chen referred to DP #87, observing staff has been using this contractor for park land
acquisition. He recalled Ms. Feser expressed her professional opinion about using a contractor versus a
traditional realtor. He questioned whether the City needed an ongoing park acquisition contractor or could
a traditional realtor be used to represent the City. For example with the Mee property, the property owner
is a willing seller who approached the City, the contractor did not identify that property. Ms. Feser answered
the contractor does not spend much time finding properties; it is the work that happens after the property is
found. For example, with the Mee property, there was a lot of work done on the purchase and sale agreement
which the consultant develops working with the owner and Mr. Taraday, research such as reviewing
documents that she does not necessarily have the skill set to review, etc. Using the contracted services also
allows her to ask for services to be secured and conducted such as survey work, phase 1 ESA, appraisals,
etc. If Longbay does not manage that, staff would need to follow purchasing policy procedures to secure
each of those services which requires bidding for each service or developing an on -call service.
Councilmember Chen commented that was similar to what a realtor would do for a client. Ms. Feser
commented depending on the price of a property, a realtor takes a percentage of the price. There is a lot of
information on this subject, and she suggested the conversation be continued at another time.
Mayor Nelson declared a brief recess.
Public Works & Utilities
Public Works Director Oscar Antillon highlighted 2023 accomplishments including the Fix It Edmonds app
and the Quarterly Public Works reports that are available on the City's website. With regard to the
comments about ADA improvements, he agreed there is room for improvement; the quarterly report metrics
show there has been some progress on the ADA transition plan. With regard to the climate action plan, a
lot of progress is being made in facilities and fleet, and utilities. There has also been progress made related
to traffic calming and pedestrian safety. He reviewed:
• Public Works Overview
o Who are we?
■ The Public Works Department provides care and maintenance to the City's physical
infrastructure. We strive to enhance reliability and performance of these systems while
maintaining a safe, clean, and healthy environment.
■ Our goal is to serve the community and to enhance the quality of life in the city. We achieve
this through a department that is community and customer focused. We embrace leadership
in environmental and energy design concepts & principles and leverage technology &
management principles to achieve operational effectiveness.
■ The theme this year is "Connecting the World Through Public Works," which highlights
the way public works professionals connect us physically, through infrastructure, and
inspirationally, through service to our community as first responders or workers carrying
out their daily responsibilities with pride.
o Public Works 2024 Proposed Budget $65M
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 18
Building
Maintenance,
$2,805,000 , 4'
Equipment
Rental,
$1,977,007 ,
3%
BEET, $3,824,300, General, $7,322,656,
6% 11%
o 2024 Decision Packages ($29.9M)
$210,700.00 $70,000.00
$1,148,250.
Street, $2,662,976,
4%
330,959.00
■ Engineering ■ Street Fund ■ Water Fund Storm Fund ■ Sewer Fund
■ WWTP Fund ■ Equipment Rental ■ Building Maintenance ■ Street Capital Projects
Rob English reviewed:
• Engineering accomplishments
o Capital projects
■ 2023 Overlay
- Completed by end of year
■ 76' Ave Overlay
- Complete
— 1/2 mile bike lane added
■ Seaview Infiltration Facility
- Complete
■ Highway 99 - Stage 2
- Complete
- Gateway signs installed
- Landscaped medians
- HAWK signal installed
■ 2023 Utility replacement
- Complete by end of year
■ Citywide bicycle
- Started
■ Elm Way Walkway
- Started 2023
■ Civic Playfield
- Complete
■ Contracts
- 24 PSA agreements and supplements
- 16 on -call PSA renewals
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 19
- 7 consultant LAG agreement and supplements
- 3 new construction contracts
- 1 small works construction contract
- 1 emergency construction contract
■ Work in Place
- $10,116,300 total paid to contractors (as of August)
- 25 contractor progress payments processed
- $1.9M paid to consultants to date
■ Apprentice Hours
- 4,002 hours on City projects (as of Q2)
■ Grants
- $7.3M billed to date (grants and partnerships)
- 2 WSDOT grant project closeouts
Citywide pedestrian improvements
84' Avenue Overlay
o Transportation
■ Traffic Calming
- 3 new radar feedback signs
- 2023 - changes to program eligibility and screening criteria
- 18 stretches evaluated
- Speed limit reduction along entire Highway 99 corridor from45 mph to 40 mph (soon
to be completed)
■ Pedestrian safety/ADA
- 5 RRFBs installed at existing crosswalks
- Curb ramps
• 17 installed (capital projects)
• 6 installed (private development)
Planning
- 2024-2029 TIP completed
- 2024 transportation plan update started
- Citywide lighting study (completed in 2023)
- 5 year BIL grant strategy report
- Submitted SS4A grant application with PSRC (safety Action Plan Grant)
Other
- CRT incentives program for employees
- Extension of ORCA cars available for all FTEs
- Tree trimming along certain Community Transit bus routes completed
o Utilities
■ Water
- Replaced 1,870 feet pipe
- Updated drinking water network model
- 31 Water Availability Certificates issues
■ Sewer
- Replaced 960 feet pipe
- Rehabilitate 1,183 ft pipe (CIPP)
- 31 sewer availability certificates issued
■ Storm
- Replaced 750 feet pipe
- 19 new catch basins
- Completed Emergency OVD Storm Abandonment Project
■ All Utilities
- General Facilities Charges updated
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 20
- Utilities rate analysis in progress
o Stormwater
■ Grants
- $469,200 DOE grant for Perrinville Basin Flow Reduction Study Update
- $205,000 DOE grant for citywide Nonpoint discharge
- $200,000 State appropriation for SR104/Marsh Catch Basin Replacement
■ Outreach/Ed
- Vinyl wrapped streetsweeper to provide environmental awareness
- Conducted Rain Garden tour to education public on its benefits
- Provided 10-12 businesses with free spill kits and accident training
- Implemented new campaign, "Dumpster/Trash Compactor maintenance"
■ SMAP/SCP
- Completed analysis of Stormwater Management Action Plan (SMAP)
• Result: Perrinville Creek Watershed identified as priority
- Stormwater Comp Plan (SCP) Update in progress
■ Inspections
- 19 illicit discharge complaints or notifications investigated
- 52 NPDES permit required facility inspections completed
- 12 stream/creek sites tested for water quality issues
- 20% of all potential pollution generating businesses will be inspected per year (new
source control program)
o Private Development
■ Permits Issued
- 345 permits - ROW, sewer installs, street use, encroachments
- 26 SFR, 4 apt/condo - new construction
- 91 SFR, 16 apt, 35 commercial - additions/alterations
Inspections
- 2700 engineering inspections performed
- 6 large development projects
Fees
- $158,206 transportation impact fees to date
- $129,103 water meter and water general facility
- $31,451 stormwater general facility
- $47,425 sewer general facility
Other
- Permit fee and bars number update completed
- 45 DRC and pre-app meetings held
- -700 business licenses reviewed
- -34 special event permits
- Permit related reference materials updated
o Document Updates
■ Code
- Revised City Code for General Facility Charges
- Stormwater City Code and Addendum updates underway
■ Polices
- Stormwater pumping policy
- Enforcement of conditions of ROW Permits
Franchises
- PSE negotiations to update franchise
- PUD discussion son permitting procedures
- Cable franchise financial audit underway
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 21
- Monitoring of wireless communication contracts and rental fee coordination with
finance
Standard details
- Completed annual update of standard details and published to City website
Engineering - Operation decision packages
#19 #20 #28
Public Works Armadillo Tracker— Drinking Water
Records Traffic Data System Model
Administrator Collector Update
#29 #48 #98
Records Sanitary Sewer Reallocate Budget
Management & Model Update Authority to Travel
Scanning Services BARS #
Mr. Antillon reviewed:
Street & Storm
o Street centerline miles: 145.9
o Stormwater pipe miles: 149.3
o Stormwater catch basin: 7,294
o Stormwater manholes: 1,897
o Responsible for the maintenance and operation of the city owned infrastructure in the right-of-
way.
■ Storm drain system
- Street sweeping
- Drain structures maintenance and inspection
■ Roadways
■ City owned sidewalks
■ Street signs
■ Streetlights/signals
■ Street/roadways markings
■ Emergency response
■ Snow removal
2023 Accomplishments
Emergency Response
48
Pavement Repairs 2887 crew hours
256
Signal Maintenance (665 crew hours)
44
Centerline/Fog line 1607 crew hours
Full City
Crosswalks striping/New tape (660 crew hours)
85
Arrows striping/New toe 38 crew hours
4
DA Rams
1
Sidewalk repairs
21
Hazard trees
16
Snow and Ice crew hours
604
Snow Response Gallons of CMA
4100
Community events support crew hours
3107
Storm System Maintenance basins
6947
Storm System Maintenance Manholes
293
Storm System new pipe linear feet
118
Storm video inspection (pipe segments)
313
New basins
11
Rehab storm surface structures
8
Street Sweeping crew hours
139
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 22
o Materials
■ Asphalt (Tons)
68
■ Paint (Gal)
2500
■ Concrete (CY)
49
■ Sand for snow removal (CY)
300
■ Salt (CY)
36
■ CMA (Gal)
4900
■ Waste from storm drain system (Tons)
749
■ Waste from street sweeping (Tons)
368
o Street & Storm future improvements required
to meet stormwater requirements
■ Cover for salt and construction materials
■ Currently our setup does not comply with best practices for storing of salt and construction
materials
■ Uncovered materials can contaminate the storm drain system
o DP#68-24002 - $70,000 Brine Machine
■ The request to add a brine machine will improve our ability to respond to winter snow and
ice events that the Pacific Northwest has been experiencing.
■ The trend has demonstrated longer, colder events that have challenged the historic policies
and practices of the city's snow response. This equipment will help to maintain open, safe,
navigable roadways for the traveling public.
Water
o Water main miles: 135.4
o Water domestic and fireline main miles: 1
o Water valves: 3,129 Water hydrants: 1,205
1. Source:
o Primary - Alderwood Water and Wastewater
District/City of Everett Sultan River. Original
agreement in 1978, Current agreement 2010-
2055. (24")
o Secondary/Emergency - Seattle Public
Utilities/Tolt River. 2011-2061 agreement for
long-term standby supply for emergencies. (12")
o Emergency intertie connections
■ 3. City of Lynwood
■ 4. Olympic View Water and Sewer District
2. Storage Capacity: 7.5 MG (4 Reservoirs)
o Five Corners Reservoirs: 3 MG and 1.5 MG
o Seaview Reservoir 1.5 MG
o Yost Reservoir 1.5 MG
Capacity
20Ls nu
■ peak Day Demand • Surplus
o Operations & Maintenance (Fund 421)
■ Last 12 month the water department performed or responded to:
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 23
- 2398 utility locate requests completed.
- 396 resident calls for service
- Repaired or replaced 46 water services
- Flushed 153 dead end blow offs
- Inspected and operated 516 valves
- Installed 17 new water services
- Replaced 367 Water meters
- Rebuilt 8 control valve stations
o 2023 Decision Packages
1123 Water Main Tapping Equipment Replacement $
8,960
#33 Water Operations & Capital Increase $
245,500
#34 Phase 12 Waterline Replacement $
10,000
#35 Phase 14 Waterline Replacement (2024) $
506,128
#36 2023 Waterline Replacement Overlays $
50,000
#37 Yost & Seaview Reservoirs Repairs & Upgrades $
805,000
#38 Phase 13 Waterline Replacement (2023) $
1,700,000
• Sewer
o The City owns and operates the collection and treatment systems. Approximately 80% of the
city sewer is treated at the City plant, the rest is treated at the Lynwood treatment plant.
o Collection system
■ 186 Miles of sewer pipe
■ 14 sewer lift stations
■ 29 Residential grinder pumps
■ Manholes and clean outs: 3425
■ 9800 accounts, City of Edmonds
o Treatment Service area
■ City of Edmonds approximately 50%
■ City of Mountlake Terrace
■ Olympic View Water Sewer District
■ Portions of Cit of Shoreline
o Operations & Maintenance (Fund 423)
■ The Sewer Department performed or responded to:
- 19 Lift Station motors and pump pulled and repaired due to lugs / blockages.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 24
- Preformed 13 sewer main repairs with Sewer Department crews.
- Emergency replacement of LS #10 pump and motor due to equipment failure.
- Camera inspection and jetted 161,898 ft of sewer pipe.
- Cut root intrusions out of 10,033 feet of sewer main.
- 6 Grease blockages cleared.
o Sewer Fund (422)
■ 2023 decision packages
#44 Additional Shoring Boxes and Equipment L� 30,000
Add one Senior Sewer Maintenance/GIS
#45 Worker $ 140,459
Wastewater Treatment Plan
o Plant statistics
■ Year built: 1957, upgraded in 1967 & 1986 ($35M)
■ Capacity:
- Max Design Flow 11.8 MGD
- Peak Daily Design Flow 21.5 MGD
- Avg Summer Flow 4 MGD
- Avg Winter Flow 6.5 MGD
o The Carbon Recovery Project is substantially complete and currently in the commissioning
process. Full operation is expected during the first quarter of 2024.
o FOG Program
■ In 2023 the City of Edmonds Pretreatment Tech conducted over 700 inspections at
restaurants, schools, hospitals, retirement homes, and other food producing facilities in
Edmonds, Olympic View and Mountlake Terrace. He has also been instrumental in
responding to odor complaints and helping to mitigate odor issues along the sewer lines
and around the WWTP
o WWTP Fund (760)
■ 2023 decision.Lacks eg s for 2024 funding
02 Asset/Project Management Specialist -convert limited term position to FTE
$ 87,459
04 WWTP Primary Clarifier 2 Rehab
$ 304,740
05 Gasification Bypass (Class A Solids Production)
$ 152,370
06 Carbon Recovery Project (Close-out/Hauling)
$ 253,950
07 Asset Criticality Ranking and Condition Assessment
$ 76,185
08 VFD Upgrades/Replacements
$ 126,975
09 Nutrient Removal Project
$ 1,015,800
110 Position Upgrade-WWTP OF to WWTP Operator
$ 20,316
o 2023 WWTP Achievements
■ On pace to treat approximately 1800 MG of wastewater
■ On pace to process over 10,700 wet tons of biosolids (including
screenings)
■ 891 Work Orders completed
■ Laboratory Testing
- Total Annual NPDES Compliance Tests: 540
- Total Annual PSNGP Compliance Tests: 652
- Total In-house Analyses: 10361
- Total Outsourced Analyses: 166
- Total Annual Biosolids Tests: 168
- Total Annual BioAir Tests: 401
- Total Annual BOD/cBOD: 2144
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 25
- Total Annual TSS: 2652
■ Odor Control
- Insert Carbon filters in 6 manholes along the Lake Ballinger sewer line and work with
King County Metro to adjust pumping strategy to lower peak flows which contribute
to odors. Also worked with vendor to maximize odor treatment at City Park odor
scrubber.
■ Staffing
- WWTP Plant Manager and WWTP Plant Supervisor positions were filled
- Hired 3 new WWTP Operator III's
- Hired new Instrumentation and Electrical Technician
- 4 Operators passed certification exams to become WWTP Operator III's
- OIT passed certification exam to become WWTP Operator I
■ Rebuild Schwing Hydraulic Pump
■ Plant maintenance staff made modifications to the scum collectors on all three secondary
clarifiers resulting in better solids capture and a cleaner effluent.
■ Mixed liquor valve actuator to secondary clarifier 3 replaced allowing better flow control
and secondary clarifier performance.
■ Aeration blower 304 was removed, rebuilt and reinstalled due to bearing failure.
■ Non -pot water pump 431 VFD replacement after failure.
■ Disinfection (Sodium Hypochlorite) pump controls were replaced after failure.
■ Conditioning Tank 603 VFD replaced after failure
■ Rebuilt primary clarifier 1 rake arm and all internal steel structures due to extreme
corrosion
■ Equipment purchased
- CEM moisture analyzer was purchased for doing solids analyses necessary in operating
the new gasification system
- Microscope was rebuilt. This is used in the analysis of the activated sludge (6)
microbiology. Microscope is 25 years old and some of the compound lenses and eye
piece were failing.
Facilities Maintenance and Operations
o Responsible for the Maintenance and operation of the City's buildings
■ 7 Day support
■ 40 restrooms cleaned 2X day
■ 6 Locker -rooms & 2 Laundry facilities
- Janitorial
- HVAC
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Building envelope
- Elevators
■ Maintain 21 Buildings totaling 450,000 sf
o Notable accomplishments
■ 100% staff retention
■ Promotion of one custodian to Maintenance Custodian
■ Two staff receive BOC 2 certification
■ Safety Committee participation
■ Climate Protection Committee participation
■ Replaced five of the Facilities crew vehicles with one hybrid, three electric and one regular
o Projects (Planned)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 26
Public Safety Solar Plant
In Progress
Public Safety Card reader replacements
Complete
Expansion of Public EV charging network
Complete
Painting Exterior Fire Station 16
Complete
Interior Painting at six buildings
In Progress (95%)
Library Lobby painting
Complete
Library book drop demo
Complete
Library parking lot insulation repair
Complete
Electrical Service completed at City Park building
Complete
Fleet EV chargers added at two locations
In Progress
Anderson Center Fire Panel Replacement
om lete
nderson Center Gym floor refinishing
cheduled for Dec Break
nderson Center transom window replacement
In Progress
nderson Center Elevator machine upgrade (code forced)
om lete
nderson Center Elevator and lobby (Flooring)
om lete
nderson Center Investment grade audit for HVAC
In Progress
nderson Center drinking fountains upgraded with bottle fillers
In Progress
ire Station 17 Garage ceiling refurbishment
Complete
I
IreAlarm radio updates at 4 locations
Complete
ity Park gazebo roof replacement
Complete
ity Park building parking lot repair/overlay
om lete
Club House flooring and stair coverings at pre-school
omplete
Public Works fleet electrical drops
Icomplete
o Projects (Unplanned)
Anderson Center boiler tube replacement
Complete
Boys and Girls Club flooring repairs
Complete
Police pedestrian fence
In Progress
Neighborhood City Office hallway door/wall
Complete
Public Safety Lobby ADA door updates
In Progress
ublic Safety office remodels, Detectives, Patrol, and Sargent's
In Progress
upport 4th of July, Porch Fest and Palozza events
Complete
Nty Hall water pressure reductin valve rebuild thanks Water Division
—Complete
City Hall Emergency sewer pipe replacement
omplete
City Hall Fire Marshal office relocation
omplete
Library remodel construction support
In Progress
Library emergency window frame replacement
omplete
Library fire alarm system replacement
Complete
Library security system
Complete
Library HVAC control upgrade
In Progress
City Park emergency water supply line replacement (thanks Water Division)
Complete
Beach Ranger Station entry door replacement
In Progress
th Ave sidewalk project
In Progress
• Fleet
o Maintenance and operation of the City owned fleet
o Current inventory: 223 vehicles and equipment
■ Passenger vehicles
■ Maintenance vehicles
■ Police vehicles
■ Civil engineering support equipment
■ Backup Power Generators
■ Trailers
■ Construction Equipment
■ Hybrid, EV, and alternative fueled vehicles
o Fleet Fund (511)
■ 2023 decision packages
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 27
#61 2023 Pre -Scheduled Vehicle Replacement
#62 Increases to Fleet Operations Expenditures
MECHANIC WORKLOAD TREND
■Vehicles/Equipment permechanic
■ Increase
® 1 h i
2008/3 2009/2 2022/2 20.
YEAR, # DF MECHANICS
With one more mechanic the load
mechanic changed from 102 to
Fund 511
o Operations & Maintenance DP #61 (511 `B' Fund)
$ 475,000
$ 13,250
■ 284-POL 2016 Ford Explorer (Patrol)
Replaced with 2024 similar vehicle
■ 286-Pol 2016 Ford Explorer (Patrol)
Replaced with 2024 similar vehicle
■ 310-POL 2015 Ford Explorer (Traffic)
Replaced with 2024 similar vehicle
■ 904-POL 2016 Harley Davidson (Traffic)
Replaced with 2024 Harley Davidson
■ 928-POL 2016 Harley Davidson (Traffic)
Replaced with 2024 Harley Davidson
■ 960-POL 2016 Harley Davidson (Traffic)
Replaced with 2024 Harley Davidson
■ 24-WTR 2008 Ford F-450
Replaced with 2024 F-450
■ 105-ENG 2008 Ford Escape
Replaced with 2024 Ford Escape
o "Similar Vehicle" selection is dependent on market availability.
o The automotive industry remains to be unpredictable and the impacts of the UAW strike is yet
to be seen.
o Expenditures by year
■ 2018 - $636,000
■ 2019 - $1,750,000
■ 2020 - $628,000
■ 2021 - $262,000
■ 2022 - $485,000
■ 2023 - $633,000
■ 2024 - $475,000
o Edmonds Green Fleet
■ 2023 Green Fleet Improvements
- 7 Fully Electric Vehicles
- 2 Hybrid Vehicles
- Downsized Utility Vehicles providing better fuel economy and compatibility for future
propane conversions
■ Total Fleet Improvements
- 12 Fully Electric Vehicles
- 15 Hybrid Vehicles
- 36 Propane Converted Vehicles
■ 157 on the road vehicles
- 40% are running on electric, hybrid, or alternative fuels
- Exceeding future Federal and State goals by 2030
- Fleet is dedicated to the reduction of its environmental impacts by continuing the
purchases of EV, hybrid, and alternative fueled vehicles where there is an available EV
replacement option.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 28
o 2023 Fleet accomplishments
■ Asset Management software updates improving work processes for repair requests, work
order flow, and costs analysis.
■ Fuel Site Management software updates to accurately track fuel usage.
■ 18 new vehicles put into service
■ 22 additional new vehicles will be in service by the end of 2023
■ Sourced 17 vehicles that were otherwise unavailable to us through conventional sources
■ Hired a new Fleet Mechanic to support the fleet growth
■ Implemented a new Take Home Vehicle Policy
Councilmember Nand commented it was awesome the amount of work Public Works does. She referred to
engineering accomplishments capital projects and 4,000 apprentice hours and asked if that was apprentice
hours within the department or union apprentices. Mr. English answered construction contracts over $1
million require 15% labor hours assigned to apprentices working for the contractor.
Due to interest at city council meetings, Councilmember Nand asked staff to describe the City's policy on
using union labor and prevailing wage on City projects. Mr. English answered contractors must comply
with State of Washington prevailing wage. There is no requirement from a union standpoint but a lot of
contractors the City employs use union labor; it depends on the project and the contractor performing the
work. Councilmember Nand asked if the amount of union labor on Public Works and capital projects was
a metric that could be tracked in 2024. Mr. English answered that could be tracked.
With regard to EV chargers, Councilmember Nand relayed Lynnwood seems to take advantage of
sponsorship opportunity for local businesses to provide free EV chargers. She asked whether that was a
model Edmonds could pursue rather than pay -per -use that is utilized in Edmonds. Mr. Antillon answered
that hasn't been explored yet. The EV chargers that have been installed are pay -per -use; several more have
been added this year although a couple have not been energized because the software has not been updated.
That could be a conversation to have with the economic development team and businesses about having
commercial EV chargers at gas stations, hotels, etc. Councilmember Nand observed a company in
Lynnwood, Volta, offers advertising space to subsidize the EV chargers. It is often not economical to pay
per charge versus charging at your residence although people with range -anxiety are forced to. If the EV
chargers could be subsidized, she anticipated there would be a proliferation of usage.
Councilmember Paine said she loves what Public Works has proposed. She asked whether Public Works
staff reads water meters or is that contracted out. Mr. Antillon answered Public Works staff read the water
meters. Councilmember Paine asked if an automated water meter reading system similar to PUD's had been
considered. The technology exists and it would be a way to free up staff time. Mr. Antillon answered it has
been considered; in discussions with PUD, the City may be able to utilize their towers for advanced meter
infrastructure. The payback is not quite there yet; it is expensive to transition and the meters are usually 10-
year meters.
Councilmember Olson said she loved the disclosure about the quality management improvement with
marking utilities and she appreciated that staff was always on the lookout for things like that. With regard
to the brine machine, she asked if that was a new decision package, recalling there was a decision package
related to snow removal last year. Mr. Antillon agreed it was a new decision package. A smaller dump truck
was added last year that allows staff to access smaller roads. The brine machine replaces spreading sand
and salt; brine is more efficient and a lower concentration than putting salt on the road.
Councilmember Olson asked about decision packages that are grouped together like pedestrian
improvements, noting she did not see the HAWK crosswalk at Firdale. She asked if that could be installed
as traffic calming if the neighborhood submitted an application or would that need to be a separate decision
package. Mr. English answered that would need to be a separate decision package as a HAWK signal would
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 29
be too expensive for the traffic calming program. Councilmember Olson asked how much a HAWK signal
cost. Mr. English offered to research and respond to her. Councilmember Olson asked about lighting on the
Interurban Trail where there is graffiti and vandalism which was not proposed in the budget. Mr. English
answered a lighting study approved as part of a decision package is being done that will identify darker
spots in the City and opportunities for improvement. Councilmember Olson observed the budget only
included a study and not any action. Mr. English agreed.
Councilmember Teitzel referred to the street and stormwater map, observing the stormwater map includes
a shaded area identified as Esperance; it was not clear how the Esperance stormwater system connects to
Edmonds' system. He asked what standards Snohomish County has to meet when they interconnect with
Edmonds stormwater system to ensure heavily polluted stormwater is not entering Edmonds' system. Mr.
Antillon answered the NPDES permit has strict regulations; Snohomish County has to follow all the state,
county and clean water act requirements.
Councilmember Teitzel referred to the decision package for the brine machine and asked about the
environmental safety of brine, whether it was safe for salmon. Mr. Antillon answered the concentration in
brine is less than putting salt on the road. Councilmember Teitzel concluded it was the best option for the
environment.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER CHEN, TO
EXTEND FOR 20 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Chen commented it was wonderful to see all Public Works's accomplishments. He used
the Fix It Edmonds app himself, it really works and is a great addition. He observed building maintenance
was not being done this year and asked the plan for the future. Mr. Antillon answered quite a bit has been
done, the facilities project list shows many of the projects that facilities has been working on and projects
that have been contracted out, projects include painting, repairs, lighting upgrades, elevator repairs, boiler
replacement, etc. Councilmember Chen commented all the work is not reflected in Fund 016, the funds are
still there.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented the City has spent a lot of money on cars, trucks and motorcycles,
and motorcycles that are less than 5 years old are being given away. She asked whether the purchase of
patrol cars and traffic motorcycles could be postponed, a cost of approximately $500,000, in view of efforts
to be conscientious of the 2024 budget. Mr. Antillon said that would be a question for the police department,
the vehicles are purchased via 511 `B' Fund.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to the $280,000 in merchant fees and asked if that was correct. Mr.
Antillon answered that was correct, credit card fees for using the system. Councilmember Buckshnis asked
if those fees were passed onto the user. Mr. Antillon answered in theory they are; all the costs of running
the enterprise funds are built into the fees.
Council President Tibbott referred to the WWTP decision packages and asked how many were related to
completing the new project and how many were related to new systems. Mr. Antillon answered two are
related to the new project; DP #05, gasification bypass (class A solids production); the system is comprised
of two parts, the dryer and production of biochar. DP #06, Carbon Recovery Project (close-out/hauling) is
the second related to the new project. The other remaining decision packages are ongoing. There is typically
$1 million in general maintenance and major repairs at the WWTP to keep up with the aging equipment.
Council President Tibbott referred to DP #06 to close out the carbon recovery project and asked that had
been intended to be included in the contract to install the plant or was it anticipated. Mr. Antillon answered
the hauling costs were not anticipated because the project took longer than anticipated. Once the contract
negotiations are concluded, those costs will be shared with the WWTP partners. Council President Tibbott
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 30
observed the list of decision packages for the WWTP states CofE portion for the amounts. Mr. Antillon
advised he would check on that. Council President Tibbott commented it was great to see the amount of
work that Public Works does.
Mayor Nelson advised due to the late hour, Item 10.4, Proposed 2024-2029 Capital Facilities Plan & Capital
Improvement Program, would be postponed to a future meeting.
Human Resources
HR Director Jessica Neill Hoyson advised she did not have any decision packages. She reviewed:
• 2023 Department Overview
o Functions of the HR Department (High-level overview)
■ HR Planning: Aligning HR functions with the goals of the City
■ Recruitment/Hiring
- HR assists with the full spectrum of recruitment which includes:
• Job description review
Building job postings
Conducting minimum qualification reviews
• Supporting departments with interview processes as needed
• Background checks
• Review of job offers for compliance with policy or collective bargaining
agreements
• Production of offer letters
Onboarding new employees (benefits, personnel policy review, initial required
training)
■ Compensation & Benefits
- Administers the City's benefit programs
• Processes all benefit paperwork
• Reviews benefit offerings to ensure the City continues to be competitive
Currently manages 13 benefit lines
■ Health and Safety
- Responsible for all employee safety issues
- Manages all on the job injury claims
- Works with claims manager to return the employee to work
■ Labor Law Compliance
- Responsible for the City's compliance with all federal and state labor laws
- Establish policies and bargaining agreements that ensure compliance
• Areas include working hours/conditions, harassment protections, equal
employment opportunity, compensation, leave laws
■ Employee Relations
- Assisting departments with employee and performance management issues
- Addressing employee complaints and concerns
- Conducting investigations
■ Labor Relations
- Conduct bargaining for all 5 represented employee groups
- Conduct all bargaining for issue that arise outside of the contract
- Manage the City's responses to union grievances, unfair labor practice filings, and
PERC hearings
■ Administrative Duties
- Responsible for maintaining all personnel records
• Employee personnel files
• Investigatory files
• Benefit policies and information
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 31
■ Risk Management
- HR is also responsible for the Risk Management function of the City
- Acts as the delegate to WCIA
- Contact for claims and some litigation
- Manages all outside insurance purchases
- Provides risk advisement as requested by departments
o HR metrics from January 2023 through September 2023
■ Leaves managed: 36
- This category includes FMLA, ADA Accommodations, Military Leave, and
Bereavement Leave
■ L&I Claims Managed: 17
■ Emergency Sick Leave Requests processed: 40+
■ Jobs posted: 52
■ Employees Hired: 67
■ Employee Separations: 20
■ Collective Bargaining Contracts Completed: 3
■ Collective Bargaining Retroactive Pay implementations: 2
- This was a very large project that took up much of the HR Department's time
Councilmember Nand thanked HR for all the work they do. She relayed when she logs into LinkedIn, she
is asked if she wants to claim ten unclaimed jobs for the City of Edmonds.
Councilmember Paine asked Ms. Neill Hoyson to comment on the WCIA insurance rates which increased
this year. Ms. Neill Hoyson explained Edmonds is not alone in having its insurance rates increase. It is
difficult for municipalities to purchase insurance in Washington State and insurance companies have
increased their rates. There is a very large group in the WCIA pool and the risk is shared among all
members. Early in the year, she schedules a presentation to review the City's claim history and present the
WCIA audit review to show the source of claims, types of claims, and how that is being addressed. The
risk pool is functioning well, they do a good job of marketing the pool to get the best prices for the members.
The biggest issues are the claims environment in Washington State and an across the board uptick in
personnel claims post COVID with employees returning to work.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER CHEN, TO
EXTEND TO 10:30. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Buckshnis observed the risk management policy needs to be approved. With regard to
claims, she anticipated a large claim would be coming due to the Pruitt lawsuit. She asked if the budget
anticipated that cost, recalling rates increased substantially after the Cooper/Hamann litigation. Ms. Neill
Hoyson explained WCIA looks at a five year period so it depends on when a claim gets settled or
adjudicated. During that five year period, new claims come in and old claims drop off.
Councilmember Chen referred to the number of employee separations, asking if that include retirements.
Ms. Neill Hoyson answered it includes retirements, resignation for other employment, and employee
separation. Councilmember Chen observed City staff has grown by 47 people. Ms. Neill Hoyson answered
some of the employees are seasonal Parks; not all the positions are full time regular employees.
3. 2024 COLA FOR NON -REPRESENTED EMPLOYEES
HR Director Neill Hoyson reviewed the proposed 2024 wage adjustment for non -represented employees:
• Personnel Policies - Chapter 5
o Compensation
■ Annual Salary Adjustments
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 32
City
COLA
Bothell
3.4%
Shoreline
TBD
SeaTac
TBD
Olympia
TBD
Lacey
No Information
Issaquah
4% Tentative
Puyallup
TBD
Burien
4.5% Tentative CPI-U based
Lynwood
No information
Mukilteo
Not yet established
■ Personnel Policy 5.10 Non -Represented Employees' Annual Salary Adjustments
■ The Mayor will recommend the adjustment of salary schedule for non -represented
employees to the City Council for approval as part of the budget process
2024 Wage Adjustments for Represented Groups
o Currently the AFSCME , Teamsters, and EPOA Law Support collective bargaining agreements
are settled for 2024
■ AFSCME 4.6%
■ Teamsters 4.6%
■ Law Support 4%
■ The EPOA Commissioned contract is not settled for 2024 but as this is a represented group
that has binding arbitration, taking this group's wage adjustments into consideration for
the non -represented employees would not be appropriate.
Other Data points
o Using "comparator" organizations is often the standard in establishing compensation and has
been used by Edmonds for both represented and non -represented employees
o Using the Consumer Price Index for Urban wage earners in the Seattle/Tacoma/Bellevue area
is also used as data point to establish compensation levels.
Com arator Organization proposed non -re adjustments for 2024
o Given that so many of Edmond's comparators have not yet established the non -rep wage
adjustment for 2024 it is advised not to use the median of the comparators for 2024
Using the CPI-U to determine wage adjustments
o In order to determine the cost of inflation from one year to the next the year a period is
established be setting a base month between two years. The June to June period is the most
commonly used.
o The 2023 CPI-U, which is used to establish 2024 wages, was 4.6%
Year June
2018 3.3
2019 2.3
2020 0.9
2021 5.5
2022 10.1
2023 4.6
Washington State Minimum Wage Increase for 2024.
o Washington State minimum wage will increase to $16.28 per hour in 2024
o State law requires an automatic annual inflation adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index
for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) for the August to August period.
What was proposed in the preliminary budget
o The preliminary budget includes a proposal of a 4.6% wage adjustment for non -represented
employees
2024 COLA Recommendation
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 33
o Based on the wage adjustments being provided to represented groups which range between
4.6% and 4%; and
o The CPI-U for 2023 June to June being 4.6%
o It is recommended that the non -rep employees receive a 4% wage adjustment for 2024
Recommendation Budget Impact
o Current proposed COLA in the 2023 budget is for a 4.6% wage adjustment.
■ This will cost $176,832 in wages and $37,154 in benefits for 2024
o The recommended wage adjustment of 4% would have the following budget impact:
■ $175,818 in wages and $37,123 in benefits
Ms. Neill Hoyson advised she provided some additional information to council at the request of
Councilmember Paine regarding the wage adjustments provided over the last three years and the CPI-U for
last three years. In 2021, single year contract extensions were done for the unions because the City was still
dealing with the pandemic and was unsure what was happening with revenues, and union employees
received a 2% wage adjustment. The exception was law support whose wage schedule was not consistent
with the City's wage schedule which has a 5% progression between ranges and 5% between steps. Law
support's wage schedule was corrected in 2021 to be consistent with the City's other wage schedules and
there was some internal alignment to similar positions in the administrative services. The result was an
average adjustment of 4%, but the adjustments varied for every position.
Ms. Neill Hoyson continued, in 2022, the council -approved wage study was implemented for all group
except law support. In 2023, the wage study was implemented for law support because their contract was
being bargained. Also in 2023, she proposed and council approved a larger COLA for non -represented
employees to catch them up with the implementation of the wage study and the internal equity between
positions. If the council approves the proposed 4% wage adjustment for non -represented employees, they
will have received a 16% wage increase over 4 years, other unions groups have received 17.6% and the rate
of inflation over that time period has been 21.1%.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
APPROVE THE 4% 2024 COLA FOR NON -REPRESENTED EMPLOYEES.
Councilmember Olson commented this is a year where everyone will be making sacrifices. She has not
ruled out a freeze for vacant positions, but felt a 4% COLA was reasonable because things have gotten
more expensive.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
EXTEND FOR 15 MINUTES FOR EVERYONE'S COMMENTS. UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION
FAILED (4-3) DUE TO LACK OF A SUPER MAJORITY, COUNCILMEMBERS TEITZEL, CHEN,
OLSON AND NAND VOTING YES; COUNCIL PRESIDENT TIBBOTT AND
COUNCILMEMBERS BUCKSHNIS, AND PAINE VOTING NO.
4. PROPOSED 2024-2029 CAPITAL FACILITIES PLAN & CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM
This item was postponed to a future meeting.
11. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
12. COUNCIL COMMENTS
13. ADJOURN
The Council meeting was adjourned at 10:29 p.m.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 34
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SCOTT PASS EY; C CLERK
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 17, 2023
Page 35