12/16/2008 City CouncilDecember 16, 2008
Following a Special Meeting at 6:15 p.m. for an Executive Session for legal advice regarding pending or
threatened litigation and a reception in honor of Councilmember Deanna Dawson at 6:30 p.m., the Edmonds
City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Haakenson in the Council Chambers, 250 5t'
Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Gary Haakenson, Mayor
Michael Plunkett, Council President
Peggy Pritchard Olson, Councilmember
Steve Bernheim, Councilmember
D. J. Wilson, Councilmember
Deanna Dawson, Councilmember
Dave Orvis, Councilmember
Ron Wambolt, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Leif Warren, Student Representative
STAFF PRESENT
Tom Tomberg, Fire Chief
Mark Correira, Assistant Fire Chief
Al Compaan, Police Chief
Gerry Gannon, Assistant Police Chief
Duane Bowman, Development Services Director
Stephen Clifton, Community Services Director
Brian McIntosh, Parks & Recreation Director
Noel Miller, Public Works Director
Kathleen Junglov, Finance Director
Rob Chave, Planning Manager
Debi Humann, Human Resources Director
Rob English, City Engineer
Bertrand Hauss, Traffic Engineer
Carl Nelson, Chief Information Officer
Scott Snyder, City Attorney
Sandy Chase, City Clerk
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst.
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
Change to 1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Agenda
Mayor Haakenson advised Consent Agenda Item O, Amendment to Fiber One Agreement (Edmonds added
to Seattle Fiber Consortium), had been removed from the Consent Agenda and would be returned to the
Council at a later date. Item 5, Sound Singers Holiday Greeting, was cancelled due to weather.
COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT,
TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Wambolt requested Item AA be removed from the Consent Agenda and Council President
Plunkett requested Item CC be removed.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT,
TO APPROVE THE REMAINDER OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows:
A. ROLL CALL
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 1
Approve
11 /25 /08 B. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 25, 2008.
Minutes
Approve C. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF DECEMBER 2, 2008.
12/02/08
Minutes D. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #108485 THROUGH #108621 FOR DECEMBER 4, 2008
Approve IN THE AMOUNT $519,685.54, AND #108622 THROUGH #108796 FOR DECEMBER 11,
Claim 2008 IN THE AMOUNT OF $320,737.90. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSITS
Checks AND CHECKS #47596 THROUGH #47671 FOR THE PERIOD NOVEMBER 16 THROUGH
Claim for NOVEMBER 30, 2008 IN THE AMOUNT $926,728.57.
Damages
E. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM LAURA HUNTER
Liquor ($1,245.00).
Licenses
F. LIST OF EDMONDS BUSINESSES APPLYING FOR THE RENEWAL OF THEIR
WASHINGTON STATE LIQUOR LICENSES, DECEMBER 2008.
Lodging Tax
Advisory Committee G. REAPPOINTMENT OF LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS FOR 2009.
Board and H. LIST OF 2008 RETIRING BOARD MEMBERS AND COMMISSIONERS.
Commission
Members
L APPROVAL OF ANNUAL AWARD ALLOCATIONS BY THE EDMONDS ARTS
Ans COMMISSION FOR 2009 CULTURAL TOURISM PROMOTION OF EVENTS THAT
Commission BRING VISITORS TO EDMONDS.
wards
EMS J. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN CONTRACT WITH SYSTEMS DESIGN
Transport NORTHWEST, INC. RELATED TO EMS TRANSPORT USER FEES.
User Fees
Driftwood K. AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE LEASE AGREEMENT WITH THE
Players DRIFTWOOD PLAYERS.
Lease
Stormwater L. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
Comp Plan / WITH HERRERA ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS FOR UPDATING THE CITY'S
Management STORMWATER COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
PROGRAM.
MEBT Plan
Restatement
M. MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES BENEFIT TRUST (MEBT) PLAN RESTATEMENT.
Fiber
lConnectivity N. FIBER CONNECTIVITY AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF EDMONDS AND
SNOHOMISH COUNTY - PROVIDES OPTION TO INTERCONNECT TO OTHER CITIES.
Fiber -optic
Transport P. NETRIVER FIBER -OPTIC TRANSPORT AND MUTUAL FAILOVER AGREEMENT.
Imerlocal
Purchasing Q. STATE OF WASHINGTON INTERLOCAL PURCHASING AGREEMENT.
2008 street R. REPORT ON FINAL CONSTRUCTION COSTS FOR THE 2008 STREET OVERLAY
Overlay PROGRAM AND COUNCIL ACCEPTANCE OF PROJECT.
Program
Five Corners S. REPORT ON BIDS OPENED ON DECEMBER 4, 2008 FOR THE FIVE CORNERS
Booster
Pump Station BOOSTER PUMP STATION UPGRADE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT AND AWARD OF
CONTRACT TO INTERWEST CONSTRUCTION, INC. ($892,460.55).
Steinman
Utility T. ACCEPTANCE OF STORMWATER UTILITY EASEMENT AND AGREEMENT FOR
Easement PIPING (10506 -235TH PLACE SW) WITH RON STEINMAN.
Ord# 3712 U. ORDINANCE NO. 3712 — DESIGNATING THE EXTERIOR OF THE PARMELEE HOUSE,
1228 9th / TOGETHER WITH THE LIVING AND DINING ROOMS, LOCATED AT 1228 - 9TH
Historic
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 2
AVENUE NORTH, EDMONDS, WASHINGTON FOR INCLUSION ON THE EDMONDS
REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES, AND DIRECTING THE COMMUNITY SERVICES
DIRECTOR OR HIS DESIGNEE TO DESIGNATE THE SITE ON THE OFFICIAL ZONING
MAP WITH AN "HR" DESIGNATION.
ord# 3713 V. ORDINANCE NO. 3713 — DESIGNATING THE SITE OF THE FIRST SCHOOL IN
233 3rd / EDMONDS SCHOOL DISTRICT #15, LOCATED AT 233 3RD AVENUE NORTH,
Historic
EDMONDS, WASHINGTON FOR INCLUSION ON THE EDMONDS REGISTER OF
HISTORIC PLACES, AND DIRECTING THE COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR OR
HIS DESIGNEE TO DESIGNATE THE SITE ON THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP WITH AN
"HR" DESIGNATION.
Ord# 3714 W. ORDINANCE NO. 3714 — DESIGNATING THE EXTERIOR OF THE INTERNATIONAL
542 Main /
Historic ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS HALL AT 542 MAIN STREET, EDMONDS, WASHINGTON
FOR INCLUSION ON THE EDMONDS REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES, AND
DIRECTING THE COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR OR HIS DESIGNEE TO
DESIGNATE THE SITE ON THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP WITH AN "HR"
DESIGNATION.
ord# 3715 X. ORDINANCE NO. 3715 — AMENDING CITY ADOPTED BUILDING CODES ECDC
Flood
Insurance 1.9.00.005 AND 19.05.005 FOR COMPLIANCE WITH STATE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM.
ord# 3716 Y. ORDINANCE NO. 3716 — AMENDING THE EDMONDS CITY CODE (ECC), UPDATING
Parking PARKING PROVISIONS IN THE DOWNTOWN EDMONDS AREA.
Provisions
Res# 1185 & Z. RESOLUTION NO. 1185 AND ORDINANCE NO. 3717 — AMENDING THE CITY'S
Pad #3717 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN WITH REGARD TO THE CITY'S PARKS AND RECREATION,
Cultural Plan AND COMMUNITY CULTURAL PLAN, AND APPROVING A PRIVATE SPONSORED
AMENDMENT REGARDING THE UNDERHILL APPLICATION FOR 215TH STREET
Ord# 3719 SOUTHWEST.
Commute
Trip
Reduction BB. ORDINANCE NO. 3719 — ADOPTION OF CITY OF EDMONDS COMMUTE TRIP
REDUCTION (CTR) PLAN AND ORDINANCE AMENDING ECC CHAPTER 17.95.
Res# 1186
EMS
Transport DD. RESOLUTION NO. 1186 — ADOPTING EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE TRANSPORT
User Fees USER FEES.
Res# 1187
EE. RESOLUTION NO. 1187 — COMMENDING LEIF WARREN FOR HIS SERVICES AS A
ICommend
L. warren
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE ON THE EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL.
Res# 118
FF. RESOLUTION NO. 1188 — THANKING COUNCILMEMBER DEANNA DAWSON.
Thank
D. Dawson
GG. BOND ORDINANCE NO. 3721 — RELATING TO REPLACEMENT WATER METERS,
ord# 3721
WIRELESS METER READING EQUIPMENT AND SUPPORTING IMPROVEMENTS TO
THE CITY'S FIBER -OPTIC NETWORK. PASSAGE OF THIS ORDINANCE WILL NOT
ordinance
RESULT IN THE SALE OF ANY BONDS UNTIL SUCH QUESTION OF FEASIBILITY HAS
BEEN SATISFACTORILY ANSWERED AND THE COUNCIL APPROVES THE ACTUAL
ISSUANCE OF THE BONDS BY PASSAGE OF A SUBSEQUENT BOND SALE
RESOLUTION IN A PUBLIC MEETING BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL.
Salary ITEM AA: APPROVAL OF AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING THE SALARY RANGES FOR NON -
Ordinance REPRESENTED AND HOURLY PERSONNEL FOR BUDGET YEAR 2009
for Non -rep
Councilmember Wambolt recalled he voted against the salary increase for non - represented employees and
would vote against the ordinance.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 3
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT, MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, TO
APPROVE ITEM AA, ORDINANCE NO. 3718.
COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM, TO
AMEND THE MOTION TO APPROVE COLA INCREASES FOR NON - REPRESENTED
EMPLOYEES FOR 2009 OF 3 %.
Councilmember Wambolt explained his opposition to a 5.8% COLA should in no way be a reflection on the
quality of the City's employees or their performance; the City had top notch employees with whom he had a
satisfactory working relationship both as a Councilmember and as a citizen. He was unable to support the
expense of a 5.8% COLA during this unprecedented decline in the economy resulting in most taxpayers not
receiving this type of pay increase, some of whom were losing their jobs and their homes.
Councilmember Wambolt referred to incorrect statements reported in last week's Enterprise, first that some
supervisors sometimes receive less pay than their staff, not because the supervisor was inappropriately
compensated but because staff was paid for overtime work. He pointed out in the private world management
was not paid for overtime and the City's non -union employees were eligible for time off to compensate for
extra hours worked. To the second statement, that there was not an incentive for employees to stay at the
City, he stressed pay was rarely the reason people changed jobs. In the past 5 years, 13 non - represented
employees left the City, the equivalent of 5% per year. Few left because they felt they were underpaid and
half of the employees who left joined consultant firms. He disagreed that poor pay drove employees away or
made recruitment more difficult. If the Council chose to support the 5.8% increase, he hoped it was for
reasons other than salary compression or high turnover myths.
Councilmember Bernheim commented although he had the highest respect for the job done by the City's
non - represented employees, he was uncomfortable with a $5,000 COLA. He noted the highest paid
employee would receive a COLA of more than $8,000 in addition to their $140,000 salary. He clarified it
was not that this employee was overpaid; it was simply that in the current economy he preferred to moderate
salary increases. The fact that union employees earned a great deal of overtime and had a salary similar to
management should not be a factor in an executive's attitude toward their job. He pointed out the proposed
COLA for non - represented employees would cost the City $220,000.
Councilmember Bernheim acknowledged all the union contracts approved by the Council included
significant COLAs. The negotiating team made a recommendation to the Council and the Council found the
COLA within previously negotiated parameters and accepted the recommendation. He noted those contracts
were approved prior to the market crash and before the Mayor's 25% salary increase. He found a 3%
increase an acceptable compromise, a step toward fiscal management and recognized the contribution of
those employees.
Councilmember Wilson commented Councilmember Wambolt's argument was based on principle. He noted
the cost of the 5.8% increase was approximately $220,000; reducing the increase to 3% would save
approximately $100,000. For a $65 -$70 million budget, $100,000 was a small percentage. He noted the
City had recently approved a pool study for $80,000 and the budget included a surplus of $300,000. He
feared the consequence of cutting $100,000 from the 43 non - represented employees would be far more
detrimental to morale, productivity and operations of the City than would be gained by a savings of
$100,000.
Councilmember Wambolt agreed his opposition was in principle. He recalled some Councilmembers wanted
to cut the Council's base salary by 10% which would have saved the City $5,000 /year but discovered the
Council's salaries could not be reduced, only donated back to the City. When the budget was approved, the
Council cut the budget by $1,500 in an effort to send a signal.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 4
Councilmember Wilson commented his principle was one of fairness; the Council approved a similar COLA
for every other employee and the policy has been that non - represented employees' COLA reflect the
increases approved for represented employees. He noted the inflation rate was reported today - deflation of
1.7% annually. He noted if there was 0% inflation next year, a 0% COLA may be appropriate.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (2 -5), COUNCILMEMBERS WAMBOLT AND BERNHEIM
IN FAVOR; AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT AND COUNCILMEMBERS ORVIS, OLSON,
DAWSON, AND WILSON OPPOSED.
Ord# 3718
Non -rep THE VOTE ON THE MAIN MOTION CARRIED (5 -2), COUNCILMEMBERS WAMBOLT AND
Salaries BERNHEIM VOTING NO.
Public
Nuisance ITEM CC: ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 6.10 ECC CHAPTER 6.20 ECC CHAPTER 6.30
Abatement ECC AND CHAPTER 20.110 ECDC• AMENDING THE CITY'S REGULATIONS
GOVERNING PUBLIC NUISANCE ABATEMENT.
Council President Plunkett referred to page 5 of the ordinance, protective coverings, and asked whether this
language would prevent a citizen from covering something in their backyard. Development Services
Director Duane Bowman answered it only addressed covering of nuisance materials. Council President
Plunkett asked whether citizens were not allowed to cover nuisance materials because those materials were
not allowed. Mr. Bowman answered yes, explaining if someone covered a pile of debris with a tarp, the
debris was still there.
Council President Plunkett inquired if a Code Enforcement Officer could enter private property in response
to a complaint of nuisance materials under a tarp. City Attorney Scott Snyder stated a Code Enforcement
Officer could enter the property under two circumstances, with the property owner's permission or with a
search warrant. He noted a reasonable suspicion was required to obtain a warrant such as an affidavit signed
by the complainant. The tarp provision addressed only certain nuisances, for example broken glass, an open
well, etc.
Mr. Snyder explained cities cannot issue administrative search warrants; the department would be required to
apply to a court with jurisdiction. In the past 25 years, the City had not applied for a search warrant for that
purpose.
Councilmember Bernheim asked for clarification that the tarp provision applied only to certain nuisances.
Mr. Bowman referred to exception language in the ordinance that referenced Section 6.20.040 and public
nuisances in 6.20.041, 6.20.042, 6.20.043, and 6.20.044. Councilmember Bernheim pointed out there was no
section 6.20.043 and 044. Mr. Snyder suggested removing reference to 6.20.043 and 6.20.044.
Councilmember Bernheim noted there were two types of nuisances, aesthetic and health and safety, and
neither could be covered by a tarp. He pointed out covering an aesthetic nuisance would eliminate the
nuisance by blocking the view. He found the tarp provision internally inconsistent as it permitted tarps to
cover a boat but not to cover piles of debris. Mr. Snyder referred to 6.20.041, aesthetic nuisances, noting A-
F listed trash, junk, litter, salvage materials, broken, discarded furniture, etc. The Council added two
exceptions, wholly enclosed within a building or in a rear yard. The proposed regulations prevent a citizen
from covering a pile of junk in their side yard or front yard. Councilmember Bernheim commented it would
allow someone to cover a rowboat with a tarp. Mr. Snyder agreed it would.
Councilmember Bernbeim referred to the language, screened from view from adjacent properties, and asked
if that included the second floor of an adjacent property. Mr. Snyder answered no, recalling there was
specific discussion at the Council public hearing regarding the difficulty regulating views from upper stories.
As a result, a six -foot fence was set as the screening criteria.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 5
Councilmember Wambolt commented he found little need for the proposed provision in that the City had not
applied for a search warrant in 25 years. He suggested amending the ordinance to remove that provision.
Councilmember Orvis used an example of a person who amassed a large number of campaign signs in his
yard; he could not simply cover them with a tarp, they needed to be disposed of properly. It was only debris
in a front yard that was addressed by the ordinance, not in a backyard or behind a fence. Mr. Bowman
clarified with regard to protective coverings, in a backyard and screened by a fence or vegetative barrier was
an exception. The ordinance only applied to debris covered by a tarp in a rear yard that was not screened by
a six -foot high fence or vegetative barrier or in a side yard or front yard.
Mayor Haakenson clarified enforcement was on a complaint basis, the City did not actively seek out
violators.
Ord# 3720 COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DAWSON,
Public
Nuisance FOR APPROVAL OF ITEM CC, ORDINANCE NO. 3720.
Abatement
—
COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT, TO
AMEND THE ORDINANCE TO REMOVE SECTIONS 6.20.043 AND 6.20.044 AND DELETE
"FROM VIEW" ON PAGE 8, SECTION G2, SO THAT THE SECTION READS, LOCATED IN A
REAR YARD AND SCREENED FROM ADJACENT PROPERTIES.
Councilmember Bernheim explained this would eliminate the opportunity for a person on an upper level to
complain about the view into a neighbor's yard. Mr. Bowman agreed.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Council President Plunkett complimented staff for their efforts, noting this was one of 3 -4 items that had
been pending for several years. There had been an exhaustive process that included numerous public
hearings and opportunities for public input.
THE VOTE ON THE MAIN MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Thanking 3. PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTION AND PLAQUE TO COUNCILMEMBER DEANNA DAWSON
Council
Member
D. Dawson Mayor Haakenson read Resolution 1188 commending, thanking and remembering Councilmember Dawson
for her service on the Council from November 27, 2001 through December 31, 2008 and recognizing her
prestigious appointment as Director of the Federal Courts Program for Justice at Stake in Washington, D.C.
Council President Plunkett presented Councilmember Dawson with a plaque in recognition of her
exceptional service and dedication to the Edmonds City Council.
Council President Plunkett commented it was inevitable that Councilmember Dawson would advance.
Although he found it difficult to rank Councilmembers, Councilmember Dawson was a superb example of
why the Edmonds City Council was respected in Snohomish County for the way they conducted their
business. He noted Councilmember Dawson was a vigorous, enthusiastic debater who always stuck to the
issue; she did not get personal or denigrate another Councilmember's point of view. Councilmembers could
have a robust debate with Councilmember Dawson without fear of demeaning comments. She represents a
model all Councilmembers should aspire to, a Councilmember that spoke to the issue, did not personalize
issues, stayed positive and once a vote was taken, she moved on. He summarized she would be missed and
remembered.
Councilmember Wambolt recalled in his first year on the Council, Councilmember Dawson was the Council
President. That was the year the Council implemented the downtown BD zones with Councilmember
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 6
Dawson's leadership. He expressed his appreciation for Councilmember Dawson making most of the
motions to implement the BD zones. He was also appreciative of the Council retreat that year that included
Dick Van Hollenbeke as a facilitator which helped the Council work together as a team. He wished her good
luck in Washington D.C. and anticipated she would do well.
Councilmember Wilson expressed appreciation for the regional view Councilmember Dawson brought to
local politics, an asset that would be missed. He commented she was also a mean charade player.
Councilmember Orvis recalled before being elected to the Council, Councilmember Dawson applied for
appointment to fill a vacancy. He recognized her courage for saying what she thought during the interview.
He expressed his appreciation for her ability to disagree on some issues and agree on others. He presented
her with a toy pirate sword, inscribed with "Avast ye DC dogs" and, "Edmonds will miss you Ms. Dawson,
come back soon."
Councilmember Ber ibeim thanked Ms. Dawson for the work she would be doing, noting the abuse the
federal courts had taken in the last eight years was horrendous. He recognized the work she would be doing
to restore habitus corpus rights, protecting captured people from torture and correcting the stacking of
immigration courts and unrestrained eavesdropping.
Councilmember Olson echoed previous Councilmembers' comments.
Student Representative Warren recognized Councilmember Dawson's resounding character, ability to
contain emotions, keep a rational mind and keep personal beliefs separate from her job as Councilmember.
Mayor Haakenson commented he would not miss Councilmember Dawson reminding him of his age by
telling him that he went to high school with her mother. He would miss their vigorous and enthusiastic
discussions. On behalf of himself and his staff, they will truly miss Councilmember Dawson and her bright
mind. He thanked her for everything she had done for the City and the citizens in her seven years on the
Council.
Councilmember Dawson commented it had been an honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Edmonds for
the past seven years. She recalled statements that serving on the Council was a thankless task, commenting it
truly was not, relaying the goodwill and good wishes she had received from citizens over the past seven
years. She thanked the citizens, Councilmembers, Mayor and staff, particularly public safety employees who
serve and protect, for everything they do to make Edmonds the friendliest city on Puget Sound. She also
thanked Councilmember Orvis for his sword, noting she would display it with the boxing gloves given to her
by Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon.
Thanking 4. PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTION AND PLAQUE TO STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE LEIF
Student WARREN.
Representa-
tive Warren
Council President Plunkett presented a resolution and plaque to Student Representative Warren commending
him for his service as Student Representative from September to December 2008. Council President
Plunkett recognized Student Representative Warren's courage, confidence and enthusiasm when entering
into debate with Councilmembers.
Student Representative Warren thanked the Council for the experience, noting it had been eye- opening to
watch the political system in action.
Sowed
Singers 5. SPECIAL PRESENTATION: SOUND SINGERS HOLIDAY GREETING.
This item was cancelled due to weather.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 7
Hearing 6. ANNUAL REPORT FROM THE HEARING EXAMINER.
Examiner
Sharon Rice, Toweill Rice Taylor LLC, explained since September 2007 they had conducted sixteen
permit application hearings, two appeals and one hearing on a request for revocation of an administratively
approved permit. She advised information regarding each of the cases was contained in the attachments to
their report.
LeAnna Toweill, Toweill Rice Taylor LLC, commented over this year they focused on procedural
ordinances that affect the Hearing Examiner, in particular ordinances related to reconsideration of a Hearing
Examiner decision, appeals of a Hearing Examiner decision and the permit revocation process. With regard
to the revocation process, they found the existing ordinance in ECDC 20.100.010.g contained an ambiguous
timeframe that allows the Hearing Examiner five days to respond to a request for reconsideration but it was
unclear whether the reconsideration decision must be issued within that timeframe. She suggested the
provision be clarified and if it was intended that a decision be issued within the timeframe, that it be
expanded to ten business days.
With regard to the reconsideration ordinance, Ms. Toweill noted there was information missing. For
example it was unclear what criteria should be applied when a reconsideration was requested, whether
reconsideration was a necessary prerequisite to filing an appeal, if new evidence may be submitted with a
reconsideration request and if the reconsideration decision was subject to another request for reconsideration.
She noted Attachment C to their report was a sample reconsideration ordinance from another city that
addressed many of these issues.
She noted Planning Staff has attempted to ameliorate some of the information gaps via procedural summary
within the staff report that includes some of the ordinance provisions and interpretations with regard to
parties' rights of reconsideration and appeal. An abbreviated version of that information was attached to
Hearing Examiner decisions. While the interpretations provided by staff have been reasonable, she
suggested the City codify the interpretations in the procedural ordinances to avoid any further conflict.
Attachment D contains a copy of the procedural summary they include with their decisions.
Ms. Rice explained prior to the Council meeting, they met with staff to discuss clarification of the ECDC
21.05.030.d. She recalled in a request for reconsideration of a decision she made in an appeal she this year,
there was a disagreement between the appellant's counsel and herself regarding the code interpretation. In
speaking with staff, they informed her that she may have been reading the code too narrowly. She noted the
appeal was presented as an administrative appeal of a code interpretation and it was her determination it was
not related to a building permit; the appellant disagreed.
Next, Ms. Rice referred to a request for revocation of an administratively approved permit that raised several
issues. In this case there was argument from the person requesting the permit that the code enforcement
process allowed the City to participate in a neighbor dispute in a manner that was unfair. She found this
difficult because the code provision with regard to burden of proof was not very explicit; in this case, the
home occupation was a construction - related business and the home occupation provisions require the
business not employ any non - residents. Neighbors complained to the City that the business owner had non-
residents assisting with work on site which code enforcement staff was unable to verify. She suggested
revising the burden of proof in a revocation matter so that the burden was not so heavily on code
enforcement staff.
Ms. Rice asked whether the Council wanted them to continue to track code provisions they found difficult.
Mayor Haakenson answered it was very useful to staff. He anticipated the suggestions would be reviewed by
the Community Services/Development Services Committee in January. Ms. Rice commented it was her
understanding the Community Development Code was under review which likely would address many of the
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 8
problems they encounter. Mayor Haakenson assured that was a lengthy process. Ms. Rice remarked all
Planning, Engineering and Code Enforcement staff had conducted themselves very professionally.
Councilmember Orvis commented he was impressed with their decisions and how judicial they were, noting
their decisions were neither political or rubber- stamps. Ms. Rice recalled when they interviewed for this
position, they assured they would apply the code as it was written. As a consequence, their interpretation of
the code may differ from staff's.
Councilmember Dawson concurred with Councilmember Orvis' comment, noting they had been extremely
professional, their decisions were easy to understand and she appreciated their service to the City.
Rental of 7. PUBLIC HEARING ON ORDINANCE NO. 3702, AN INTERIM ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDING
Single
Family THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION 16.20.010(B)(3) RELATING TO THE RENTAL OF SINGLE
Dwellings FAMILY DWELLINGS. THIS ORDINANCE AFFECTS MINIMUM TIME LIMITS ON SUCH
RENTALS
For Council President Plunkett, Development Services Director Duane Bowman explained the next step in
the process would be for the Planning Board to review the interim ordinance and the topic and provide a
recommendation to Council. He explained the interim ordinance restricted rental of single family houses in
single family zones to not less than one week. He recalled this issue arose as a result of a home being rented
in the Talbot Park area for meetings. The Council adopted the interim ordinance on November 3 and
scheduled this public hearing as required for an interim ordinance. The Council could rescind the ordinance;
staff's recommendation was to refer the matter to the Planning Board for review and recommendation. The
Planning Board must act within six months or the Council must extend the ordinance.
Council President Plunkett clarified this was the first step in the process. Mr. Bowman agreed it was the first
step in a very public process; he anticipated a work session would be held with the Planning Board, the
Planning Board would hold a public hearing, the Planning Board would forward a recommendation to the
City Council and the Council would hold another public hearing on the Planning Board's recommendation.
He noted staff would forward information provided at tonight's public hearing to the Planning Board.
City Attorney Scott Snyder clarified no Council action was required; if the Council took no action, the
interim ordinance would be referred to the Planning Board for action and would expire in six months. The
Council may amend the interim ordinance or repeal it.
Councilmember Bernheim asked whether there was interest in allowing short term rentals as an economic
development driver. Mr. Bowman answered that aspect would be considered by the Planning Board and may
require additional code amendments.
Mayor Haakenson opened the public participation portion of the public hearing. He referred to
correspondence the Council received from Marilyn Lindberg and a letter and petition from Jim Wilkinson.
He read a letter from Geraldine Kraski, Edmonds, a homeowner on Sunset Avenue, who found it very
objectionable that the City was allowing Mr. Wilkinson to use his home as a short term rental. She
emphasized Sunset Avenue was a residential street and short term rentals should stay on Aurora Avenue and
not downtown Edmonds.
Sally Wassall, Edmonds, a resident on Sunset Avenue, an area zoned RS -6 single family residential, liked
the community feel of knowing their neighbors and being able to depend on them if necessary. She did not
want short term, 7 -day vacation rentals on their street of single family homes. She preferred rentals be no
less than 30 days to avoid constant moving -in and out, additional traffic and cars parked on the street at
night. She noted some of these transient people posed a threat to the existing residents. The previous owner
of the triplex lived in one of the units and rented the other two units to long term tenants. The current owner,
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 9
Jim Wilkinson, has established short term rentals in a single family area, an unwelcome commercial
operation that could change their neighborhood.
Michele Hoverter, representing Irene and Irvin Pinyerd, Edmonds, explained the Pinyerds purchased
their home on Sunset Avenue in 1975 amid single family residences and not in a hotel area. She noted
Sunset Avenue was not an area of cabins and she was surprised the City would allow short stay rentals in this
family neighborhood. A landlord herself, she was suspicious of short stay tenants who bring an element of
undesirability to a community. She urged the City to stop the practice of short term rentals in this unique,
vibrant, single family area.
Jim Wassall, Edmonds, a resident on Sunset Avenue, expressed support for the ordinance with a minimum
rental period of 30 days as recommended by the Council Community Services /Development Services
Committee. He pointed out vacation rentals of 7 days were a business and should require a business license.
He noted the previous owner of the triplex had long term renters in the two units that Mr. Wilkinson is
renting as vacation rentals; vacation rentals of the two units constitutes a change in use. He noted Sunset was
a Blockwatch neighborhood and with 7 -day rentals, it was unlikely the neighbors would meet the renters.
Shirley Pauls, Edmonds, a resident on Sunset Avenue, strongly encouraged the Council and Planning Board
to approve no less than a 30 day rental in this residential area.
John Pauls, Edmonds, a resident on Sunset Avenue, noted the preamble to Ordinance No. 3702 captured
their concerns with compatibility between short term rentals and rentals that have traditionally occurred in
single family areas such as mother -in -law cottages. He noted rentals were healthy when they were for a
duration of a month or more and it was not appropriate to have a motel -type use in a single family residential
area.
Marilyn Lindberg, Edmonds, a resident on Sunset Avenue, recalled she last appeared before the Council
when the neighborhood successfully discouraged the railroad from building a fence on Sunset Avenue. She
noted Sunset Avenue was zoned single family and had always been a peaceful and quiet street and short term
rentals with renters changing every few days was not appropriate for the neighborhood. She was opposed to
anything less than a 30 -day rental to maintain Edmonds as the small, safe town it has always been. She
thanked Councilmember Dawson for her community service to Edmonds and wished her the best in her new
endeavor.
Jim Wilkinson, Edmonds, a resident on Sunset Avenue, commented the ordinance did not address the
issues of noise and disturbance that arose with the rental of a home on Cyrus Place. He did not object to the
7 -day rental period. In addition to issues of taking and property rights, he pointed out the proposed
ordinance did not address the real issue and it created more problems than it solved. He noted in the
discussion regarding the Cyrus Place property, there had been no attempt to set up decibel readings to
support the neighbor's complaints. He submitted a petition with 75 signatures of voters in the City, noting
several who signed the petition urged the Council to be problem solvers and not problem creators. He
pointed out ordinances such as this pitted neighbors against neighbors and put the compliance officer in the
middle. He doubted any of the retired people that occupied his rental units disturbed anyone on his street.
He questioned whether his neighbors' concern was actually that a gay couple was living on the block. He
remarked the neighbors beliefs turned his stomach and advised an investor had approached him interested in
converting the units to an adult family home.
Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, recalled when the residents of Sunset Avenue approached the Council for
assistance with the railroad's plans to install a fence, the Council listened to their concerns. He urged the
Council to listen to the neighbors' request for a 30 -day minimum rental.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 10
Jeff Coe, Edmonds, a resident on Sunset Avenue, requested the Council retain the 7 -day rental period,
noting it had not posed any problems with parking, etc. He viewed the 7 -day rentals as a benefit to the
community, noting most of their tenants spent money at stores and restaurants downtown. He noted their
current tenants were occupying the units for 4 months and 6 months, and were not short term renters of ill
repute. He summarized none of their neighbors had mentioned any problems with their renters.
Hearing no further public comment, Mayor Haakenson closed the public participation portion of the public
hearing.
Councilmember Bernheim questioned the difference between leasing a home and this challenged activity of
renting a home in a residential zone for a shorter period. He agreed the shorter term rentals were similar to a
business and asked whether it could be permitted in a residential zone via a business license. Mr. Snyder
responded the City could not issue a business permit under its current ordinances in a residential zone
because commercial activities were prohibited. He noted there were two issues that made it virtually
impossible for the City to pursue a civil code enforcement or criminal prosecution at this time; first the
zoning ordinance permits the renting of rooms in a residential neighborhood, and second, the City has never
regulated the renting of homes. When the original complaint arose, staff recognized the ordinance did not
address a homeowner that chose to rent all or a portion of his /her home for a short period. Until this issue
was presented to the Council, staff was unaware Mr. Wilkinson was renting his property. He summarized
the issue was not about Sunset Avenue but the City as a whole.
Councilmember Wilson commented if the Council determined short term rentals were a commercial activity,
there may be implications on someone who owned and leased property via a business such as an LLC. Mr.
Snyder answered the City currently had provisions that would permit an LLC to be operated as a home
occupation. Councilmember Wilson clarified it would not be a home occupation but rather a real estate
holding company, a LLC that held the property that derived the rental income for commercial purposes. He
assumed the proposed ordinance did not address that issue but envisioned determining what constituted a
commercial use in a residential area would be a larger issue than anticipated. Mr. Bowman stated in his
opinion a holding company that owned real estate and rented a house was still a single family use. The issue
before the Council tonight was defining at what point a short term rental was a single family use or a
commercial activity. In his opinion, short term rentals were similar to a motel/hotel versus a property owner
renting their home for 6 -12 months.
Mr. Snyder commented the interim ordinance process provided an opportunity to consider all these issues.
He noted every LLC had a business address; operating the LLC from a residential address in the City would
require a home occupation permit. He observed Councilmember Wilson's point was the potential for
unintended consequences. Councilmember Wilson emphasized the unintended consequences could have far
greater implications than could be envisioned.
Councilmember Orvis asked if the rules being discussed for short term rentals were the same for accessory
dwelling units (ADU). Mr. Snyder answered the time limit would be the same. Mr. Bowman explained for
an ADU, the homeowner must live in the primary residence.
COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, TO
REFER THE INTERIM ORDINANCE TO THE PLANNING BOARD FOR REVIEW AND
RECOMMENDATION.
Council President Plunkett commented the issues raised by Councilmember Wilson would be considered by
the Planning Board. He encouraged the Planning Board to focus on preserving and protecting neighborhoods
as residential, long term uses.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 11
Councilmember Wilson commented the manner in which this issue has been discussed has always been with
regard to short term rentals. He relayed his own personal political philosophy was the Council should not
find problems to solve or regulate on niche issues; sometimes the best thing government could do was to do
nothing. He supported forwarding the interim ordinance to the Planning Board for review but cautioned the
Council to consider the general implications of laws. Although the issue arose because of the rental of a
house on Cyrus Place, he noted the regulations could negatively impact residents with ADU, mother -in -law
apartments, or rental homes. He did not want to eliminate the ability for a resident to rent all or part of their
home. He cautioned against legislating to address specific instances.
Councilmember Dawson thanked those who spoke regarding this issue, noting it was important for the
Council to hear from residents. She recalled the topic arose initially as a result of a house in another
neighborhood and no one was aware that short term rentals were occurring. She envisioned the issue would
be discussed at length at the Planning Board including whether short term rentals were similar to a hotel
business or similar to renting out a house. She noted it may be easier to envision vacation rentals on Sunset
because it is close to downtown, however, residents throughout the City may not want to have vacation
rentals in their neighborhood. She noted it may be that short term rentals were appropriate in some areas,
that regulations would be needed to regulate that activity, or that a permit would be required.
Councilmember Orvis envisioned supplementing his retirement income via renting an ADU to a student at
Edmonds Community College. He wanted to preserve the option for his neighbor to rent out an ADU and
noted residents on Sunset may also want to preserve that option. He recognized 7 -day rentals on Sunset
Avenue were a possibility due to the proximity to the waterfront and downtown.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
8. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
sustainable Janis Freeman, Edmonds, announced the topic of the next Sustainable Edmonds meeting was Climate and
Edmonds Environment, What's New in Washington State. Three presentations will cover the Puget Sound Action
Agenda, a report on the Governor's Climate Action Committee, and the 2009 environmental legislative
priorities recommended by a coalition of environmental groups. The meeting is free, open to all, and will be
held on January 4 in the Port of Edmonds Conference Room at 336 Admiralty Way from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Rentals of Jim Wilkinson, Edmonds, commented Beverly Starkovich, who was unable to speak tonight, trades her
Single
Family house on 9d' North for weekly rentals when they vacation. He pointed out no one had stated how their
Dwellings weekly rentals were disturbing any of the residents on Sunset and without their speaking to the Council,
Excess likely the neighbors would have continued to be unaware. Next, he questioned whether the excess Verizon
verizon wires had been addressed by the City. He also questioned whether the blocked sidewalks on 5`h & Dayton
Wires and 3rd & Dayton were liabilities to the City. With regard to Item 9, he questioned the City paying $106.81
Purchase of or $11.3.64 per square foot for an easement for the property in front of Old Milltown, commenting that was a
court and great deal of money in these economic times. He envisioned the City would purchase, improve and maintain
Underwater the easement and the primary beneficiary would be the storefronts owned by Mr. Gregg. Next, he questioned
Park Buoys the need for the numerous buoys at the underwater park, commenting the number of buoys was increasing;
they were getting more florescent and larger and were affecting the view on Sunset Avenue.
Michele Hoverter, Edmonds, commented she was speaking to the Council because of the land use issues;
Rental of
Single Sunset was not a multi family zone. Mr. Wilkinson's properties were being marketed as small apartments
Family available for weekly rental which she compared to a multi family use in a single family residential zone. She
Dwellings commented a mother -in -law apartment was not multi family; there was no intent to deny a landowner to
make money from their property but it must be appropriate for the zoning. When this was a triplex, the
rental was done under single family rules, for 1 -6 months or long term leases.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 12
Fred Gouge, Port of Edmonds Commissioner, congratulated the Council on passing their 2009 -2010
Edmonds I budget and reminded the Council there needed to be some economic development in Edmonds. The Council
car show needed to consider how to bring in businesses and possibly consider changes in the zoning because the
Council could not continue to ask the tax payers to fund the City's expenses. Next, he relayed that the
Edmonds Chamber of Commerce had canceled the Edmonds Car Show. He noted the car show was a great
economic development event and needed to be retained. He proposed a group be formed to reinstate the car
show and funds in the budget for economic development be provided to assist them. He summarized the car
show was a great family event that brought cars and people to Edmonds.
Jim Wassail, Edmonds, found Mr. Wilkinson's comment that the residents on Sunset Avenue turned his
stomach a personal insult to his wife and him.
Edmonds Bruce Nicholson, Edmonds, recalled Josephine Lloyd and he co- founded the idea of an Edmonds Car Show
Car show with the goal of promoting the Edmonds business community. He relayed first -hand knowledge that realtors,
restaurants and businesses benefited from the car show and agreed the car show was an event for all ages.
He noted the car show was published on regional calendars and national magazines and should not be
abandoned without further consideration. He remarked on the hundreds of volunteer hours involved in the
car show.
Edmonds Josephine Lloyd, Edmonds, explained the car show began 7 -8 years ago in an effort to draw a different
Car show economic social group to downtown Edmonds. She suggested forming an action group to discuss with the
Chamber of Commerce reinstating the car show. If the car show was reinstated, she was hopeful the City
would continue their past support. She wished Councilmember Dawson good luck.
Courtyard at Brian Larman, Edmonds, spoke regarding the courtyard at Old Milltown, explaining the Edmonds
Old Floretum Garden Club has offered to plan and maintain the courtyard. He acknowledged the courtyard
Milltown
would benefit the tenants but would also benefit the City and maintain its ambiance.
Jeff Coe, Edmonds, relayed Mr. Wilkinson's apology for his comment, commenting he found the faceless
objections to be a personal attack.
courtyard at Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, questioned if the City would be responsible for the grease reservoir under the
Old gathering place at Old Milltown. He urged Council to include the cost of finishing the sidewalk in their
Milltown negotiations and to withhold funds if the sidewalk was not finished. He described a fall he took near City
Thanks to Hall today, expressing thanks to the Fire Department personnel who checked on him. He relayed to the
Fire Dept. firefighter that he would refuse to be transported because he did not believe in double billing; he has already
EMS paid for transport fees via the EMS levy but would be required to pay an additional transport fee. He
Transport recognized the Mayor's attempts to cut expenditures by not sending out holiday cards, a savings of $1200.
Fees
Public Council President Plunkett provided a reminder that public service announcements could be made at the
Service
Announce- beginning of the meeting by contacting City Clerk Sandy Chase. Next , he commented the Council liked the
ments car show, and assured he would be open to considering how the Council could help.
EMS
Transport Councilmember Wilson pointed out Mr. Hertrich paid for the EMS transport fee via his Medicare coverage,
Fee not via the EMS levy.
Courtyard at 9.
Old
Milltown
DISCUSSION AND POTENTIAL ACTION ON THE REAL ESTATE PURCHASE AND SALE
AGREEMENT FOR THE PURCHASE OF AN EASEMENT FOR PUBLIC USE OF A STRIP OF
LAND KNOWN AS "THE COURTYARD AT OLD MILLTOWN."
Mayor Haakenson commented he did not share the Council's enthusiasm over the purchase of this property.
He recalled the City had purchased many pieces of property over the years for park land or waterfront uses
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 13
and in all those cases he was supportive of the purchase because of the public good that would result from
the transaction. In this case, he failed to see the need or benefit to the citizens from purchasing the 2,200
square foot piece of land. To the argument that this has been a public gathering space and an integral part of
Edmonds that if lost, would result in a loss of Edmonds past, he pointed out this boardwalk was built in the
70's to look like an old west town and had no historic value and served as an eating space for restaurants or a
place to wait for an appointment at an adjacent business.
The real reason the Council wanted to purchase the property was to prevent the property owner from
developing it as City code may allow a new development proposal to extend to the sidewalk as the balance of
the Old Milltown property currently does. If the Council wished to prevent that type of development, he
suggested they change the zoning code to eliminate that option. He did not find an expenditure of $250,000
in Real Estate Excise Tax to purchase this property the proper way to create zoning. Many who were in
favor of purchasing this parcel were doing so to spite the developer, yet by this action they were paying him
$250,000 in tax dollars.
Mayor Haakenson informed the Council he would not veto their decision to purchase the boardwalk but
found it a strange way to zone the City. He noted a public hearing and a code amendment would have
accomplished the same goal with less staff time, appraisals, contamination testing and negotiating the
potential purchase. He acknowledged this was a Council policy decision.
Councilmember Wambolt asked whether accomplishing this via zoning would constitute a spot rezone. City
Attorney Scott Snyder answered the Council could pass zoning ordinances of general application; if the
Council attempted to pass an ordinance that restricted development at that time, the City would pay for it.
Council President Plunkett asked staff to comment on the contaminants under the site. Mr. Snyder
responded Mr. Hertrich was referring to the grease trap for the adjacent property under the courtyard area.
He explained the City was only purchasing an easement over the top ten inches; the property owner would
continue to own the subsurface area and the grease trap would be his responsibility.
COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM, TO
EXECUTE THE REAL ESTATE PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT FOR THE PURCHASE OF
AN EASEMENT FOR PUBLIC USE OF A STRIP OF LAND KNOWN AS "THE COURTYARD AT
OLD MILLTOWN."
Councilmember Wambolt commented on the lengthy process to reach this point, noting many citizens
thought this purchase had been accomplished previously. He agreed the Council was purchasing the
easement to prevent development of this area, noting prior to construction he observed many people meeting
in that area. He noted the Garden Club had offered to maintain the area. He was supportive of the purchase,
clarifying the easement was being purchased with Real Estate Excise Taxes which could not be used for
operations.
Councilmember Bernheim agreed with Councilmember Wambolt's comments.
Councilmember Dawson spoke against the motion, agreeing there would be some public benefit from this
purchase but felt a better deal could have been negotiated. She concluded the shop owners would receive as
much benefit as the citizens. She would vote against the purchase due to that principle although she
recognized it would be a nice place.
Councilmember Wilson commented this had never been personal for him; he did not want to spite Mr.
Gregg. He supported the purchase because it was a one of a few nice meeting places downtown. He
commented he had not heard Mayor Haakenson's opinion of this purchase until recently. He recalled the
property was appraised at $380,000; the Council did not want to purchase the property at full market price
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 14
due to changes in the market and to avoid the liability underneath. Mr. Gregg was originally willing to
accept $285,000 and after discussing how to avoid liability for contamination, a price of $250,000 was
negotiated. He summarized purchasing this property for $250,000 was a great opportunity and a great price.
Council President Plunkett envisioned citizens would have been outraged if the Council passed up the
opportunity to purchase this open space downtown. He compared it to other purchases of open space that
benefited all citizens.
MOTION CARRIED (6 -1), COUNCILMEMBER DAWSON VOTED NO.
2009 10. DISCUSSION AND POTENTIAL ACTION ON THE CITY OF EDMONDS DRAFT 2009
Legislative
Agenda LEGISLATIVE AGENDA.
Community Services /Economic Development Director Stephen Clifton referred to the 2009 Edmonds
Legislative Agenda which if approved by the Council would serve in part as a scope of work for Mike
Doubleday, the City's Government Relations contractor in Olympia. He explained the legislative agenda
was divided into top priorities and supportive issues.
Mike Doubleday explained the upcoming session was a 1.05 day, budget - writing session that begins on
January 12. The Governor's operating budget will be presented on Thursday, December 18 and contains an
approximately $6 billion operating shortfall. He explained 60% of the State's budget or $20 billion of the
$34 billion biennial budget was untouchable. Of the remaining $14 billion, the Governor would need to cut
40% which would impact higher education and all State departments.
He briefly reviewed top priorities on the Legislative Agenda. With regard to Edmonds Crossing, he
explained the State was pursuing a reservation system for ferries and trying to reduce the construction
budget. The only terminals that would move forward in the short term would be Mukilteo, Anacortes and
Fauntleroy; the others have been delayed. He highlighted options for infrastructure financing, noting this
was a high priority for most cities. He reviewed support issues including climate change, Puget Sound
Clean -up, taping of local government executive sessions, and use of Real Estate Excise Tax for parks
operations and maintenance.
Councilmember Orvis requested adding to the Legislative Agenda the ability for the Public Health District to
ask the voters for funds by giving the Health Districts levy authority. While it could be argued whether this
was a State or County issue, it was the City's citizens who got sick if Public Health did not do its job. He
planned to make the same argument to Senator Paull Shin later this week, that it was his constituents who got
sick if Public Health could not do its job.
Councilmember Dawson spoke in favor of Councilmember Orvis' suggestion, commenting this was an
important issue that Edmonds and other cities should include in their legislative agenda.
COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DAWSON, TO ADD
TO THE EDMONDS 2009 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA GIVING PUBLIC HEALTH DISTRICTS LEVY
AUTHORITY. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Wilson commented the members of the Lake Ballinger Watershed Forum (Edmonds,
Mountlake Terrace, Lake Forest Park, Lynnwood, Shoreline and Snohomish County) signed an Interlocal
Agreement and are meeting every six weeks to discuss how to address the issue. Mr. Doubleday assured
there would be a capital budget this year although a reduced amount. Councilmember Wilson relayed the
Watershed Forum's appropriation request was for another $200,000 to facilitate implementation of the
Strategic Action Plan and a $1 million capital request. He asked whether one letter signed by every
jurisdiction or separate letters from each were preferable. Mr. Doubleday answered one letter signed by all
jurisdictions was preferable.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 15
Councilmember Wambolt asked if the list of top priorities was ranked. Mr. Clifton answered they were not.
Mayor Haakenson asked staff to address Item 12, Support Issue - Property Taxes. Mr. Clifton answered this
was the only item on which the Legislative Agenda that City administration and staff did not include a
recommendation because it was a policy issue for the Council, whether to support legislation that would
allow cities to increase the regular property tax rate at the Consumer Price Index or Implicit Price Deflator.
Councilmember Wilson recommended Item 12 be a top priority, noting cities would need to ask for voter
approval every few years just to meet basic inflationary increases in expenses. Mr. Doubleday responded
there would be an effort by AWC to allow cities to enact, with voter approval, the 0.3% county sales tax for
criminal justice if the county did not.
Councilmember Dawson commented this region was overly sales taxed and she would not support any
additional sales tax increases. With increases approved by the Snohomish County Council and the voters'
approval of Sound Transit, Snohomish County would have one of the highest sales taxes in the nation which
was detrimental to local businesses.
COUNCILMEMBER WILSON MOVED TO MOVE ITEM 12 TO THE LIST OF TOP PRIORITIES.
MOTION DIED FOR LACK OF A SECOND.
Councilmember Wambolt commented in normal times, Item 12 would be appropriate; however, in a
deflationary period the City may not even get the current 1%. He agreed with Councilmember Dawson's
comment about not raising the sales tax.
COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT,
TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED CITY OF EDMONDS 2009 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA AS
AMENDED.
Councilmember Bernheim expressed concern with seeking funds for the Edmonds Crossing project and did
not support any substantial lobby toward what he deemed a wasted effort to eannark millions for further
study on moving the ferry when it was clear it would not happen. Mayor Haakenson advised staff planned to
provide the Council a presentation on the Edmonds Crossing project in January. The policy of this and
previous Councils has been to move forward with the Edmonds Crossing project; the Council could amend
that policy at the time the presentation was made if they chose.
COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM MOVED TO REMOVE EDMONDS CROSSING FROM THE
LEGISLATIVE AGENDA. MOTION DIED FOR LACK OF A SECOND.
COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM MOVED TO REMOVE FROM SUPPORT ISSUE ITEM 2
"WITHOUT A MANDATE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT." MOTION DIED FOR LACK OF A
SECOND.
Councilmember Wilson expressed concern with the wording "by using existing mechanisms" in Support
Issue Item 2, and wanted to ensure new funding mechanisms were not precluded. Mr. Clifton responded the
intent was to support existing and new funding mechanisms. Councilmember Dawson agreed with
Councilmember Wilson's suggestion, commenting she would like to see new funding mechanisms that did
not put mandates on local government and she may support local mandates depending on the details. Mr.
Clifton offered to reword Support Issue Item 2. Council President Plunkett suggested language such as
"existing and /or consider new mechanisms."
Councilmember Wilson asked whether the Council should express a preference for the location of a new
University of Washington north branch campus, noting Everett may be preferable for Edmonds residents
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 16
over Marysville. Mayor Haakenson recalled the Council adopted a resolution supporting siting a campus in
Snohomish County but did not express a preference for either Everett or Marysville.
THE VOTE ON THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
11. REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS OF DECEMBER 9 2008.
Community/ Community Services /Development Services Committee
Development Councilmember Wilson reported the Committee continued its discussion regarding the Sustainability element
Services
Committee of the Comprehensive Plan. They also discussed redevelopment of the 76`h & Hwy. 99 intersection to
improve safety and increase east -west traffic to the Mountlake Terrace Park & Ride.
Finance Finance Committee
committee Councilmember Orvis reported the Committee discussed the bond resolution that was passed on the Consent
Agenda. They discussed the State of Washington Interlocal Purchasing Agreement which was also approved
on the Consent Agenda. The Committee also discussed the MEBT Plan restatement which was approved on
the Consent Agenda.
12. COUNCIL REPORTS ON OUTSIDE COMMITTEE /BOARD MEETINGS.
Port Councilmember Wambolt reported at their December 8 meeting, the Port of Edmonds had a presentation.
Commission from the Edmonds Homeschool Resource Center on the convergent zone. The information will be
incorporated into the weather station at the Port. The Commission selected officers for 2009; Bruce Faires
will serve as President and Mary Lou Block as Vice President. The Port webmaster provided an update on
their site, www.PortofEd . The Port received eight construction bids; the highest bid was three
Sidewalk times the lowest. He recalled the City had delayed bidding sidewalks in the Meadowdale area in anticipation
Bids in of a better bidding climate and requested staff provide an update. Mayor Haakenson advised an update on
Meadowdale
the sidewalk bids would be provided in January.
Regional
FirCouncilmember Wilson reported Councilmember Wambolt, Mayor Haakenson and he attended a Regional
Fire
Authority Fire Authority meeting. The meeting was well attended and there was a great deal of interest by the
Lake attendees. He reported the Lake Ballinger Watershed Forum toured the upper watershed including a weir
Ballinger that controls outflow. He explained two - thirds of the water that flows into Lake Ballinger and ultimately
Watershed through McAleer Creek comes from Halls Creek and 80% of the water that flows into Halls Creek comes
from Hwy. 99.
[Fl,afth
District Councilmember Orvis reported the Snohomish Health District a pp roved their budget, finalizing the cuts he
had described previously. They also approved a COLA for the District's non - represented employees.
Community Councilmember Dawson reported this week would be her last meeting at Community Transit and last week
Transit & was her last meeting at Sound Transit. She relayed Edmonds voters overwhelmingly supported the Sound
Sound
Tra Transit package in the recent election. She anticipated light rail would be a tremendous benefit for the
Transit p g p �
community and a great investment in the future. She was proud to have severed on the Sound Transit Board
this year and to be a part of the vote that would bring light rail to Snohomish County in 15 years.
snoCorn and I Councilmember Dawson commented there were many important issues coming to the SnoCom and SnoPac
SnoPac Boards with regard to technology and whether the agencies do it together or separately. Because many of the
upcoming issues had a long history and required a sophisticated knowledge of the issues, rather than
appointing a Councilmember to the Board, she urged the Council to have Mayor Haakenson return to the
Board and have Fire Chief Tomberg continue to serve on the Board. The current SnoCom Director was
resigning this year and a new Director and Assistant Director would be hired and Chief Tomberg has chaired
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 17
the Personnel Committee. She suggested a Councilmember keep up on the issues and potentially transition
to the Board in the future.
sus Rapid I Councilmember Bernheim reported on the ground breaking of the Bus Rapid Transit stop on the Mukilteo
Transit Speedway in Everett. He noted this bus would operate with very few stops between Aurora Village and the
Everett transit center via downtown Everett.
13. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
sidewalk at With regard to the sidewalk at Old Milltown, Mayor Haakenson reported the sidewalk had not been
old completed at the corner of 5 & Dayton pending a decision by the Department of Ecology due to an
Mi1lt °' underground storage tank. DOE made a decision and the property owner agreed to pour the sidewalk;
however, it was now too cold to pour the concrete. Staff and he plan to attempt to move the fences toward
the building to open the sidewalk through the holidays or until work begins again.
Mayor Haakenson thanked Student Representative Warren for his participation. He expressed his
appreciation to Councilmember Dawson and wished her the best. He thanked all the citizens who brought
him candy and cookies during the past week and wished everyone a Happy Holiday.
14. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Council President Plunkett commented Councilmember Dawson's move was an exciting new beginning for
her and for the Council. He wished her well. In reviewing the year's agendas, he found the Council had
approved things that had been pending for years, brought forward a number of new initiatives and achieved a
number of substantial accomplishments. He wished everyone a Happy Holiday.
Councilmember Wambolt wished everyone a great Christmas and a more successful 2009.
Councilmember Wilson wished everyone a Happy Holiday.
Councilmember Orvis wished everyone a Happy Holiday and told Councilmember Dawson the Council .
would miss her.
Student Representative Warren thanked the Council for an experience he would always remember. He
wished everyone a Merry Christmas.
Councilmember Olson wished everyone a Merry Christmas.
Councilmember Bemheim reported he had been monitoring the temperature in the building and it had been a
consistent 70.5 degrees. He suggested turning down the thermostat to save money.
Councilmember Dawson recognized Senior Executive Council Assistant Jana Spellman for everything she
does for the Council and for the beautiful cake she made. She thanked the Council, Mayor and citizens for
the past seven years. She wished everyone a Happy Holiday and Happy New Year.
15. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:04 p.m.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 16, 2008
Page 18