04/17/2007 City CouncilApril 17, 2007
Following a Special Meeting at 6:45 p.m. to interview candidates for the Architectural Design Board, the
Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Haakenson in the Council
Chambers, 250 5t1i Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Gary Haakenson, Mayor
Peggy Pritchard Olson, Council President
Michael Plunkett, Councilmember
Richard Marin, Councilmember
Mauri Moore, Councilmember
Deanna Dawson, Councilmember
Dave Orvis, Councilmember
Ron Wambolt, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Shaun Callahan, Student Representative
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
STAFF PRESENT
David Stern, Chief of Police
Duane Bowman, Development Services Director
Brian McIntosh, Parks & Recreation Director
Noel Miller, Public Works Director
Kathleen Junglov, Asst. Admin. Services Dir.
Rob Chave, Planning Manager
Dave Gebert, City Engineer
Debi Humann, Human Resources Manager
Don Fiene, Assistant City Engineer
Scott Snyder, City Attorney
Sandy Chase, City Clerk
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst.
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
COUNCILMEMBER MOORE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MARIN, TO
APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCILMEMBER MOORE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MARIN, TO
APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items
approved are as follows:
Approve 3/23
A. ROLL CALL,
and 3/24/07
Minutes
B. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL RETREAT MINUTES OF MARCH 23-24, 2007.
Approve 4/3/07
Minutes
C. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF APRIL 3, 2007.
Claim
D. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #95345 THROUGH #95507 FOR APRIL 5 2007 IN
Checkse
THE AMOUNT OF $377,063.39 AND #95508 THROUGH #95682 FOR APRIL 12, 2007 IN
THE AMOUNT OF $441,911.82. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSIT AND
CHECKS #44670 THROUGH #44724 FOR THE PERIOD OF MARCH 1.6 THROUGH
MARCH 31, 2007 IN THE AMOUNT OF $817,018.64.
Faith Community
Church
E. PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF FAITH COMMUNITY CHURCH - 50TH
Proclamation
ANNIVERSARY, APRIL 15, 2007.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 1
Friar Tuck Lane
Drainage F. AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS FOR THE FRIAR TUCK LANE DRAINAGE
Improvements IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT.
100th Ave. W
Right-of-way G. AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS FOR THE 100TH AVENUE WEST RIGHT -OF -
Stabilization I WAY STABILIZATION PROJECT.
Gaspers, 9th Ave
and Puget Dr H. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Walkway AGREEMENT WITH REID MIDDLETON, INC. FOR THE CASPERS, NINTH AVENUE
Ord# 3637 AND PUGET DRIVE WALKWAY PROJECT.
First Quarter
Budget I. ORDINANCE NO.3637 - 2007 FIRST QUARTER BUDGET AMENDMENT.
Amendment
re: Mayor Haakenson advised Agenda Item 9 did not include a proposed ordinance and the Council would
lAomment
genda Item 9, not take any action tonight other than to determine whether the Council was interested in scheduling
Cats . , . .
of cats.
'!Architectural
Boar 3. CONFIRMATION OF MAYOR'S APPOINTMENT OF BRUCE O'NEILL AND STEVE
Design Board
ppointments BULLOCK TO THE ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN BOARD.
COUNCILMEMBER MOORE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MARIN, TO
CONFIRM THE MAYOR'S APPOINTMENT OF BRUCE O'NEILL AND STEVE BULLOCK TO
THE ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN BOARD. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Moore commented she was thrilled to have Mr. O'Neill, a builder in Edmonds, and Mr.
Bullock, a former City employee as well as a landscape architect, serve on the Architectural Design
Board.
Mayor Haakenson introduced Mr. O'Neill and Mr. Bullock.
Earth Week
Proclamation 4. PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF EARTH WEEK IN EDMONDS APRIL 14-22 2007.
Mayor Haakenson read a proclamation declaring April 14 — 22 as Earth Week in Edmonds and urging all
citizens to do something positive for the environment.
Councilmember Moore commended a woman she saw today picking up trash along Sunset Avenue and
anyone else who picks up trash in the City.
Six -Year Capital 5. PROPOSED ORDINANCE ADOPTING A SIX -YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
Improvement (CIP) FOR THE YEARS 2007 THROUGH 2O13.
[Program
Assistant City Engineer Don Fiene explained at the March 20, 2007 City Council meeting, the Council
voted to approve the 2007-2013 Six -Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The Council also
amended the CIP to fund a study and design for the 80th Avenue West sight distance issue in 2008 and a
construction project in 2010 and a study of the 88th Avenue West/196th Street SW intersection in 2007.
Additionally, the Council discussed the possibility of funding the 80th Avenue West sight distance
construction project using funds anticipated from a land sale near the proposed project. There was also
discussion regarding re -prioritizing the 80th Avenue West pedestrian project to coincide with the 80th
Avenue West sight distance project.
As directed by the Council, the Fund 112 CIP has been revised as follows:
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 2
1. The study of the 88th Avenue West and 196th Street SW intersection has been moved up from
2013 to 2007. The proposed CIP now includes $20,000 in 2007 for this study, with a $20,000
revenue transfer to Fund 112 from the General Fund for this study.
2. The 80th Avenue West sight distance improvements and the associated 80th Avenue West
walkway project (from 180th Street SW to 1881h Street SW) have been moved up from 2013. The
proposed CIP now includes $50,000 for design in 2008 and $220,000 for construction in 2010 for
the 80th Avenue West sight distance improvements, and $75,000 for design in 2008 and $325,000
for construction in 2010 for the 80th Avenue West walkway project.
Due to these revisions, the following projects were re -prioritized:
• 212th Street SW and 84th Avenue West (Five Corners) intersection improvements slipped one
year, from 2010/2011 to 2011/2012.
• 72nd Avenue West pedestrian improvements slipped three years, from 2010 to 2013.
• Ninth Avenue and Caspers Street intersection improvements slipped one year, from 2011 to 2012.
• Ninth Avenue and Main Street intersection improvements slipped one year, from 2010 to 2011.
Options to fund the re -prioritized projects are as follows:
A $220,000 transfer to Fund 112 from the General Fund from funds anticipated from the land
sale, or
No transfer from the General Fund and a $220,000 reduction in citywide overlays.
Staff s recommendation is to adopt the 2007-2013 CIP using Option 1.
Councilmember Orvis commented it was his understanding the projects would be completed with funds
from the land sale and would not require any projects to slip. Mr. Fiene answered the projects slipping
was due to moving forward projects in the later years of the CIP, thus projects in the forward years
needed to be moved to later years to make that up. He noted the primary reason was moving the 801h
Avenue West walkway project to earlier years.
Councilmember Orvis asked where the $220,000 proceeds from the land sale appeared on the CTP. Mr.
Fiene answered it was shown as a transfer from the General Fund. Mayor Haakenson pointed out the sale
had not yet occurred so it was unknown whether those funds would be realized. When/if those funds
were received, they would be transferred into Fund 112 from the General Fund. Councilmember Orvis
suggested if the transfer occurred sooner, the sight distance project could be accomplished sooner as well.
Mr. Fiene agreed, noting design also needed to be completed.
Councilmember Wambolt referred to letters received from several citizens expressing concern that the
Angler's Crossing project would be completed and the City would do this work later. He explained the
proposed project would be done to coincide with the Angler's Crossing project; it was shown as 2010 as
that was currently the best estimate of when that work would be done but the CIP could be adjusted as
necessary.
Councilmember Marin commented if the Council approved the CIP with the proposed dates, if the design
were completed earlier and funding was available earlier, staff could proceed with the project sooner. Mr.
Fiene agreed.
Councilmember Dawson asked for clarification regarding the four projects that slipped. Mr. Fiene
explained a large amount of grant funding was anticipated for the signal projects, thus not as much local
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 3
funding was required versus the 80th Avenue West walkway for which staff did not anticipate receiving
any grant funds. Several signal projects equated to the 80`h Avenue West walkway project.
Councilmember Dawson asked if staff anticipated any grant funding for the 80`h Avenue West walkway
project. Mr. Fiene answered that walkway project did not qualify well for grants as it was not in close
proximity to a school; staff would apply for any grants the project was eligible for. Councilmember
Dawson observed it may be possible to move projects up if grant funds became available. Mr. Fiene
agreed it was possible. Councilmember Dawson asked if the slip was due to staff time or only funding.
Mr. Fiene answered the local funds were what caused the 80`h Avenue West walkway project to slip.
Councilmember Dawson asked why the 72"d Avenue West pedestrian improvements slipped three years
versus one year. Mr. Fiene answered that was best fit with the numbers. He noted there was also not as
much interest in that project and other projects were felt to be higher priorities.
City Engineer Dave Gebert referred to the ending cash balance on the Fund 112 spreadsheet, explaining
the projects must be shifted to ensure the ending cash balance was a positive number at the end of each
year. Councilmember Dawson noted the Ninth Avenue and Caspers Street intersection improvements
slipped one year, from 2011 to 2012 and the Ninth Avenue and Main Street intersection improvements
slipped one year, from 2010 to 2011, versus the 72"d Avenue West pedestrian improvements which
slipped three years, from 2010 to 2013. Mr. Gebert explained it was necessary to shift some projects
more than others to ensure the numbers worked because some projects required more local funds. Mr.
Fiene pointed out 72ad Avenue West pedestrian improvements was all local funds thus was nearly an even
swap for the 80`h Avenue West walkway project.
Councilmember Dawson observed that although the 72"d Avenue West project was more important, the
signal projects would be done sooner due to available funding. Mr. Fiene agreed there were more grant
funds available for the signal projects and the 72"d Avenue pedestrian improvements would be unlikely to
qualify for grant funds because it was not in close proximity to a school. Mr. Gebert described how the
projects were shifted to make the dollars match.
Councilmember Orvis was concerned that Angler's Crossing would be developed and the road regrade
would not be done. He suggested moving the funding source and the regrade project forward to 2008 or
2009.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOORE, FOR
APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE NO.3638.
Councilmember Marin understood Councilmember Orvis' concern, noting it was addressed by staff s
assurance that projects could be moved forward.
COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, TO
MOVE THE REGRADE PROJECT AND $220,000 FUNDING FOR THE PROJECT UP ONE
YEAR TO 2009.
Councilmember Marin indicated he would not support the amendment as the City had not yet received
those funds.
Mayor Haakenson pointed out the McNaughton Group did not yet own the property; therefore, Angler's
Crossing was not a done deal and was still being decided in the courts to the best of his knowledge.
Councilmember Dawson concurred with Councilmember Marin and suggested rather than moving
revenues now, the CIP be approved as proposed and when/if the transactions occurred, the project and
funds be moved as appropriate. Council President Olson agreed.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 4
COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS WITHDREW HIS AMENDMENT WITH THE AGREEMENT OF
THE SECOND.
Councilmember Orvis requested the motion incorporate a recommendation that the project be returned to
the Council for further discussion and potential action when the sale occurred.
City Attorney Scott Snyder explained the City could only amend its Comprehensive Plan annually with
the exception the CIP could be amended via the budget. The Council did budget amendments quarterly,
therefore, staff could bring this back to the Council at the time of a budget amendment. It was the
consensus of the Council to have staff return to the Council for further discussion and potential action
when the land sale occurred.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The ordinance reads as follows:
Ord# 3638 ORDINANCE NO. 3638 — AMENDING THE PROVISIONS OF THE EDMONDS
Adopt six -Year Capital COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, CAPITAL FACILITIES ELEMENT TO ADOPT AN ANNUAL
Improvement UPDATE TO SAID PLAN, AND FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME SHALL BECOME
Program EFFECTIVE.
Closed Record 6. CLOSED RECORD REVIEW OF THE PLANNING BOARD'S RECOMMENDATION TO
Review — Rezone APPROVE THE REZONE FROM NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS (BN) TO COMMUNITY
24310 76th Ave BUSINESS (BC). THE SITE IS LOCATED AT 24310 76TH AVE. W. APPLICANT: A.D.
(Shapiro) SHAPIRO ARCHITECTS FOR RON KNOWLES. FILE NO. R-2005-97.
As this was a quasi judicial matter under the Appearance of Fairness Doctrine, Mayor Haakenson asked
whether any Councilmembers had any ex parte communication or conflicts to disclose.
Councilmember Plunkett disclosed the applicant, Tony Shapiro, made a $200 contribution to Mr.
Plunkett's non -City Council campaign in 2002.
Mayor Haakenson asked whether any of the parties of record had any objection to Councilmember
Plunkett's participation. There were no objections voiced and Mayor Haakenson advised all
Councilmembers would participate.
Planning Manager Rob Chave recalled the Council approved a Comprehensive Plan amendment for this
property in December 2006. The Plan amendment modified the Comprehensive Plan boundaries to
coincide with property boundaries in the vicinity. The applicant was now following up on the Plan
amendment by requesting the zoning be changed to be consistent with the new Comprehensive Plan map.
He advised the Planning Board held a public hearing on the proposal and recommended the application be
approved, changing the zoning from BN to BC. Mr. Chave noted the residents in the neighborhood
followed the Comprehensive Plan amendment fairly closely and were in support of this limited rezone.
Tony Shapiro, AD Shapiro Architects, stated the comments made at the Planning Board summarized
the intent and compliance with the Comprehensive Plan. He noted the original issue was a split
Comprehensive Plan designation on the property and the intent was to bring the zoning into alignment
with the property boundaries and enable this property to be redeveloped in a positive manner. The
property is currently a vacant mini -mart; the property is for sale pending this rezone. If the rezone is
approved, redevelopment was likely to occur on the site.
Mayor Haakenson invited parties of record to provide comment. There were no parties of record present
who wished to provide comment.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 5
COUNCILMEMBER MOORE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MARIN, TO
DIRECT THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE CHANGE
IN ZONING FROM BN TO BC AS RECOMMENDED BY THE PLANNING BOARD.
Councilmember Moore pointed out this was consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and the purposes of
the zoning. The rezone would blend and improve the nearby property as mixed use as encouraged in this
area. She noted this was a gateway where it was important to have attractive retail near arterial streets.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Closed Record 7. CLOSED RECORD REVIEW OF THE PLANNING BOARD'S RECOMMENDATION TO
Review —Rezone APPROVE THE REZONE FROM MULTIPLE RESIDENTIAL (RM-1.5) TO MULTIPLE
Certain Properties on RESIDENTIAL - EDMONDS WAY (RM-EW), AND FROM COMMUNITY BUSINESS (BC) TO
Edmonds way COMMUNITY BUSINESS - EDMONDS WAY (BC-EW). THE SITE IS LOCATED AT 23012,
(Shapiro) 23014 23028 23100 23110 EDMONDS WAY 9133 232ND ST. SW AND THE VACANT LOT AT
THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF 232ND ST. SW & EDMONDS WAY. APPLICANT: A.D.
SHAPIRO FOR SGA CORP. FILE NO. R-2006-95.
As this was a quasi judicial matter, under the Appearance of Fairness Doctrine, Mayor Haakenson asked
whether any Councilmembers had any ex parte communication or conflicts to disclose.
Councilmember Plunkett disclosed the applicant, Tony Shapiro, made a $200 contribution to Mr.
Plunkett's non -City Council campaign in 2002.
Mayor Haakenson asked whether any of the parties of record had any objection to Councilmember
Plunkett's participation. There were no objections voiced and Mayor Haakenson advised all
Councilmembers would participate.
Planning Manager Rob Chave displayed a map identifying the subject properties along Edmonds Way.
He recalled in February 2007 the Council approved an amendment to the Edmonds Community
Development Code (ECDC) which created the zones that the applicants were now seeking to apply to the
subject properties. The zones were available to any properties within the Edmonds Way Corridor that fit
the criteria for rezone. The applicants' request was for the BC zone to be rezoned to BC -Edmonds Way
and the RM.1 zone to be rezoned to RM-Edmonds Way. The Planning Board held a public hearing and
recommended approval. There was little input at the rezone public hearing before the Planning Board.
Councilmember Plunkett asked if the City was meeting its GMA targets. Mr. Chave answered the 2004
and 2006 Comprehensive Plan update determined the City had the capacity to meet its growth targets.
Councilmember Dawson asked whether the value of the existing structures was contained in the record.
Mr. Chave answered he did not believe so other than an indication that the structures were very small
buildings. Councilmember Dawson recalled there was some discussion in the record that they were
dilapidated but did not recall whether the value was indicated. Mr. Chave answered there were no dollar
amounts, only a reference to the characteristic and quality of the buildings.
Tony Shapiro, AD Shapiro Architects, explained following the creation of the new zones, the Planning
Department recommended they hold another neighborhood meeting regarding their proposal to apply the
new zones to these lots. Only one neighbor attended the meeting. He summarized they had made
extensive efforts to communicate with the neighbors.
Mr. Shapiro provided the PowerPoint presentation given to the Planning Board. He highlighted the grade
change, pointing out the zones were appropriate in this area due to the grade change. Further, the
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 6
intensity of use of this roadway, 20,000 vehicles per day, warranted consideration of a more intense zone
than was currently permitted. He displayed several photographs of the subject property and the
surrounding area, explaining there were currently five houses on the property. He pointed out single
family uses were not the proper utilization of property along this road. He cited the grade change as one
of the reasons this site was appropriate for mixed use due to the limited impact on adjacent properties.
Mr. Shapiro stated the application complied with the rezone criteria. With regard to the City's ability to
meet its growth targets, Edmonds had an opportunity to redevelop in a manner that brought the City in
tune with development occurring in neighboring cities and around the region. He assured their intent was
not to make another Bellevue out of Edmonds but felt mixed use, four-story buildings with townhomes
that were more affordable than bowl -type townhomes or condominiums would be an appropriate addition
to this area. He pointed out offloading of traffic onto nearby residential streets would be minimized as
primary access would be Edmonds Way with some access onto 232i7d from residential parking.
Councilmember Plunkett referred to Mr. Shapiro's comment about being in tune with neighbors and
asked where in the six criteria in Code Section 20.40 was "being in tune with neighbors" addressed? Mr.
Shapiro answered working with neighbors and having compatible uses adjacent to existing properties was
the intent of the Comprehensive Plan. Councilmember Plunkett asked which of the criteria addressed
being in tune with neighbors. Mr. Shapiro commented on the ability of Edmonds to move ahead in a
manner similar to the region. He supported reasonable growth, pointing out single family was not the
highest and best use for Edmonds Way. He noted new development provided new tax revenue and new
residents who may not be able to afford high -end properties.
Councilmember Plunkett observed Mr. Shapiro's contention was this development would help the City
meet its growth targets. Mr. Shapiro agreed. Councilmember Plunkett pointed out the City was already
meeting its growth targets. Mr. Shapiro stated the development would also provide additional tax
revenue. City Attorney Scott Snyder cautioned the closed record review was limited to discussion of the
record. Mr. Shapiro advised that issue was not raised by the Planning Board.
Councilmember Plunkett observed Mr. Shapiro was suggesting the rezone application should be approved
as it helped the City meet its growth targets; however, the City was already meeting its growth targets.
Mr. Shapiro pointed out the City met its growth targets in 2006 and questioned whether the City could
meet its growth targets in the future. Councilmember Plunkett questioned whether the Council was
expected to make its decision based on a speculative future. Mr. Shapiro stated the GMA mandated the
City to accept higher densities in future years.
Councilmember Plunkett referred to page 8 of the testimony where there was reference to affordability
and asked whether there was a City standard with regard to affordability. Mr. Shapiro referred to the
mean -average price of a house in Edmonds, commenting these townhomes would be more reasonably
priced. Mr. Snyder advised Mr. Chave and he were unable to find anything in the record that stated the
City was currently meeting its growth targets other than a reference on page 23 to assisting the City in
meeting its Growth Management goals. He suggested Council questions ask for a citation in the record of
where the information was contained.
Councilmember Plunkett asked if there was anything in the records that spoke to the issue of how the City
defined affordability. Mr. Shapiro answered not specifically. Councilmember Plunkett asked if there was
any evidence in the record that the rezone was needed to meet the City's growth targets. Mr. Shapiro
answered it would help the City have more dense housing.
Councilmember Dawson asked if there was anything in the record regarding the price of the units. Mr.
Shapiro answered no as they had not made a commitment with regard to specific unit prices.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 7
Councilmember Dawson asked whether there was anything in the record regarding the value of the
existing structures on the property. Mr. Shapiro answered no, but they were at the low end of the
spectrum. Councilmember Dawson asked if there was anything in the record regarding whether the
existing uses were residential or commercial. Mr. Shapiro answered there were five single family houses
on the property. Councilmember Dawson asked if the record reflected the value of those structures. Mr.
Shapiro advised it did not.
Councilmember Orvis inquired about the current zoning. Mr. Shapiro answered it was currently zoned
RM and BC.
Mayor Haakenson invited parties of record to provide comment. There were no parties of record present
who wished to provide comment.
Councilmember Dawson asked where the goals shown on pages 58 and 59 of the record were taken from.
Mr. Chave answered they were from the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan. Councilmember
Dawson asked if those goals were what the development should be compatible with to qualify for a
rezone. Mr. Chave answered there were various goals; one of the Council's findings must be that the
proposal was consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
Councilmember Dawson asked what Comprehensive Plan goals the Planning Board relied upon. Mr.
Snyder referred to page 21 and Mr. Chave referred to the attachments listed on page 25 and the Planning
Board's discussion of the criteria on page 15 of the Planning Board transcript. Councilmember Dawson.
commented it was difficult to find in the record the specific goals the Planning Board found the proposal
was compatible with. She referred to a reference that multi family development should be on arterial or
collector streets, questioning whether that was sufficient. Mr. Chave referred to pages 21 and 23 where
there was discussion in general regarding the Comprehensive Plan policies as well as in Mr. Shapiro's
declarations. Mr. Snyder referred to the sentence following the motion at the top of page 15 (Planning
Board transcript) that referenced staff s comments and the applicant's comments. Mr. Snyder referred to
pages 22 and 23 under Analysis and Mr. Chave referred to the applicant's discussion regarding the
consistency with the Comprehensive Plan on pages 32 and 33.
Mayor Haakenson remanded to Council for action.
COUNCILMEMBER MOORE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MARIN, TO
DIRECT THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE
CHANGES IN ZONING AS RECOMMENDED BY THE PLANNING BOARD.
Councilmember Wambolt commented affordable by definition was a relative term; it was reasonable to
assume that housing along Edmonds Way would be more affordable than in the bowl or Emerald Hills.
With regard to meeting GMA targets, he noted the City was meeting its targets in 2006; however, there
had been unusual amounts of housing constructed in recent years such as the Pt. Edwards condominiums.
He noted the City would need more dense development in future years. He was supportive of the motion.
Councilmember Orvis advised he would oppose the motion, commenting the rezone criteria that he was
most concerned with was in regard to surrounding area and suitability. He pointed out the proposal was
to change single family units to a fairly large structure as high as 45 feet which seemed to be a large step
to him. The current zoning was also multi family/mixed use and represented a more appropriate step.
Although development via the existing zoning would be larger than single family, it was less of an
increase. He envisioned little gain to the City via this rezone as the site was currently zoned for multi
family and BC/mixed use. He envisioned if the zoning remained as it currently existed, there would be
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 8
more dense development on the site which would add to the number of residential units in the City. He
did not see the value of allowing buildings up to 45 feet on this site.
Councilmember Moore noted the Planning Board voted 5-1 for approval and the dissenter found it to be a
very good plan but had a few questions that were not answered on the record. She recalled the dissenter
on the Planning Board indicated he was voting no but it was not a strong no. She found the proposed
zoning compatible with the surrounding area and a perfect zone for the Edmonds Way Corridor. She
pointed out there had been significant change in the character of the area over the last few years and the
proposal was consistent with the change in character. She urged Council to support the proposed rezone.
Councilmember Marin spoke in favor of the motion, pointing out this area would be well served by
redevelopment and it would be an amenity to the community.
Council President Olson spoke in favor of the motion, commenting one of the goals was to have density
in areas where there was public transit so that residents could live there and not drive. She favored
encouraging density on Edmonds Way.
Councilmember Wambolt pointed out the existing zoning was not appropriate for redevelopment as
evidenced by the lack of development that had occurred. The lot had been vacant for decades and the
adjacent single family homes had been ready for redevelopment for a similar period of time. He
concluded the proposed rezone was appropriate.
Councilmember Dawson referred to a statement in the Comprehensive Plan regarding support for
retention and rehabilitation of old housing within Edmonds whenever economically feasible. She
acknowledged it may not be economically feasible to retain or rehabilitate these houses but that
information was not contained in the record. She sided with the dissenter on the Planning Board who said
it may be a good idea but there were questions that were not answered by the record. She was concerned
the removal of the few remaining properties that may be affordable was inconsistent with the statement in
the Comprehensive Plan. She did not disagree with allowing increased density in this area and found the
proposal consistent in some ways but not in others. She summarized there were various things that were
suggested or alluded to by comments/arguments that were not supported by the record. She would vote
against the proposed rezone reluctantly as she found many excellent things about the project such as green
building but had concerns that the record was not as clear as it should be.
Councilmember Moore pointed out at some point the Council needed to amend the Comprehensive Plan
with regard to the statement about retention and rehabilitation of older houses, noting some older housing
was abandoned and unsafe to occupy. She suggested the intent of that statement was retaining and
rehabilitating older housing with historic value.
Councilmember Dawson pointed out there was limited ability to develop affordable housing in many
areas of Snohomish County and the region; the only way to preserve affordable housing was to preserve
existing multi family and single family housing stock.
MOTION CARRIED (4-3), COUNCIL PRESIDENT OLSON AND COUNCILMEMBERS MARIN,
MOORE AND WAMBOLT IN FAVOR; AND COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, PLUNKETT AND
DAWSON OPPOSED.
8. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
comment re: Mayor Haakenson again advised Agenda Item 9 did not include a proposed ordinance and the Council
genaa Item 9, would not take any action tonight other than to determine whether the Council was interested in
Cats
scheduling further discussion regarding deleting cats from the exemption of roaming at large and
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 9
requiring licensing of cats. If there were a total of at least four Councilmembers interested in further
discussion, a public hearing and further discussion would be scheduled at a future Council meeting.
old Woodway Lora Petso, Edmonds, displayed a park plan for the Old Woodway Elementary School, noting although
Elementary
school she had been told by staff it did not represent the plan for the park, this map kept coming up and the
demolition documents she obtained were consistent with this park plan. She pointed out the baseball
fields depicted on the park plan would be suitable only for 12-years old and under, the soccer fields for
10-years old and under, there was no public restroom, extensive safety fencing would be required
between the soccer fields and the street, playground and parking lot as well as between the baseball fields,
sportcourt and soccer fields. She displayed a photograph of a 25-30 foot tall safety fencing at Summit
Playfields in Seattle which has a similar layout. She displayed photographs of the demolition site, noting
all mature vegetation was proposed to be removed other than the specimen Cherry tree. She suggested
retaining the trees until there had been a public process regarding the park development, noting the trees
could be a nice feature in a neighborhood park.
Effect of Cats on Suzie Schaffer, Edmonds, Vice President of the Snohomish County Audubon Society, spoke on the
he Bird effect of cats on the bird population. She supported further discussion and study and suggested the City
Population consider the Lake Forest Park and Aurora, Colorado, ordinances. She supported licensing cats and
exempting cats from roaming at large.
[Term Limits Al Rutledge, Edmonds, suggested the Council consider adopting term limits in January 2008. Next he
pointed out eight cities were involved in a lawsuit with Snohomish County regarding allowing 11 units
Snohomish Ccper acre zoning and asked whether Edmonds would be joining those cities. He then referred to
Lawsuit/1 l units Councilmember Dawson's employment with Snohomish County, suggesting she not participate in the
Per Acre
discussion of issues involving the City and the County.
Non -Represented Don Fiene, Edmonds, spoke in favor of the Non -Represented Employee Compensation Policy, advising
'T'ployee it was a big improvement over the existing policy. He pointed out the importance of a fair compensation
Compensation policy in order to retain and hire good employees, concluding the current policy was not fair.
Require cats to Cheri Zehner, Edmonds, recommended the City require cats be licensed and not allow them to run at
e Licensed large. As an avid gardener and bird lover with a certified wildlife habitat in her yard, she was concerned
with cats entering her yard and attacking birds. Although she had asked her neighbors to keep their cats
out of her yard, she had not been successful. She expressed concern with cat waste left in her yard and
her dogs' habit of eating and vomiting cat feces. She commented it was the cat owners' responsibility to
keep their pets in their yard, just as was expected of dog owners. She urged the Council to address this
issue and require cats to be confined to their own yards.
support cat Robert Chaffee, Edmonds, referred to the Audubon. Society, PAWS, and feral cat organizations' support
Learn Law and of a cat leash law and requiring cats to be licensed. He pointed out the only argument against a cat leash
Licensing law was it was mean to the cat and that it would be difficult to keep cats inside. Although it may be a
difficult adjustment for some cats, statistics show indoor -outdoor cats lived shorter lives than indoor cats.
He compared keeping cats indoors to the carseat requirement for children; at first it was difficult but then
became common place. After a few years, keeping a cat confined would not be any more problematic
than it was for dogs.
caspers, 9tb Ave Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, referred to Consent Agenda Item H, the Caspers, Ninth Avenue and Puget
and Puget Dr Drive Walkway project, pointing out the project appeared to have grown. He referred to the bridge on the
Walkway
north side, commenting there was not sufficient right-of-way for a walkway in that area and the bridge led
nowhere. He noted much of the cost of the project was due to environmental issues associated with the
bridge. He suggested eliminating the bridge and allowing the sidewalk to stop at 7th Avenue on the north
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 10
side of Caspers. Next he pointed out the CIP included $590,000 for this project; however, the packet
identified $380,000 for this project and another page identified $116,000 for the consultant to engineer
the project which totaled $532,000, not $590,000. He then referred to page 10 of the March 27 minutes
where he suggested enacting cat licenses and holding a public hearing in regard to parks, pointing out
both subjects had arisen again.
Issues Robert McCallum, Edmonds, was glad the Council planned to revisit the cat at large issue, particularly
Cat Issues
now that trapping was no longer allowed. He cited three observations of cats in his yard within the past
two days. He envisioned if animal control was able to talk to cat owners and convince them to keep their
pet on their property, harmony would again reign in the neighborhood.
Cat Issues Ray Martin, Edmonds, recommended the Council do what was right for the majority of Edmonds
citizens with regard to cats and he would agree with that action assuming the Council did their homework.
He recommended the City take action to eliminate the root cause of this neighborhood dispute, the luring
and gathering of animals on one property in their neighborhood and its public health ramifications by
Update updating the definition of poultry in the animal ordinance. He pointed out there was no difference
efinition of
Poultry between quail and other fowl such as chickens, geese, turkeys, ducks, partridges, pheasants, grouse, etc.
and their effect on the health of residential zones. He suggested waiting 6-12 months and conducting a
survey regarding the public's experience with the revised ordinance.
Term Limits Mike Muster, Edmonds, spoke against term limits, stating he did not need anyone to determine who he
could/could not vote for.
City Code 9'
Chapter 5.05,
Animal Control
(Cats)
DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING PROVISIONS OF CITY CODE
CHAPTER 5.05 RELATING TO ANIMAL CONTROL. DISCUSSION WILL INCLUDE
DELETING CATS FROM THE EXEMPTION OF ROAMING AT LARGE AS WELL AS
REQUIRING LICENSING OF CATS. (REQUESTED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOORE.)
Councilmember Moore explained she asked this be brought back to the Council to determine whether
there were three other Councilmembers interested in striking the exception for cats from the roaming at
large provisions in the code. She relayed her research regarding PAWS' support for confining cats and
their practice of not adopting out animals to owners who had previously lost a pet due to it not being
confined. She cited the Audubon Society's support for confining cats. The most convincing argument
she heard in favor of deleting cats from the exemption of roaming at large came from the City's Animal
Control Officer Debbie Dawson who supported restricting the movement of cats as 40% of her
complaints were in regard to cats roaming at large. Officer Dawson also supported licensing of cats,
pointing out cat owners did not support City services although cats represented 40% of the complaints.
She also supported licensing to facilitate returning cats to their owners.
Councilmember Moore noted although this began as a neighborhood dispute, it had become a bigger issue
and the City needed to delete cats from the exemption of roaming at large. She referred to a packet of
materials from Robert and Debbie McCallum who listed ten reasons for deleting cats from the exemption
of roaming at large: 1) destruction of wildlife, 2) protection of cats, 3) minimizing health risks to
humans, 4) ending neighborhood disputes by providing animal control equitable laws for managing
domesticated pets, 5) ending the use of neighbor's gardens as litter boxes and cats spraying on private
property, 6) educating and instructing minors about the environment and protection of the ecosystem, 7)
making the laws uniform, 8) protecting homeowners' real property rights, 9) stopping the explosion of
feral cats, and 10) because it was the fair and right thing to do.
Councilmember Marin spoke in support of having a public hearing and possibly pursuing further action.
He recalled 3-4 years ago when the Council was considering a spay/neuter ordinance, he spent an
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 11
afternoon with Animal Control Officer Dawson. One of the alarming things to him was the difficulty
returning cats to their owners without cat licenses. In addition, recent events have revealed there were
many incidences of cats annoying neighbors via trespassing on their property.
For Councilmember Plunkett, Council President Olson explained if there were a total of four
Councilmembers interested in pursuing deleting cats from the exemption of roaming at large, it would be
scheduled for a public hearing. Councilmember Plunkett expressed his support for a public hearing.
Council President Olson commented she was in favor of further discussion and advised it would be
scheduled for a public hearing on May 15.
Councilmember Wambolt suggested the Council also consider the issues Mr. Martin raised, raising quail
in the City and possibly redefining quail as poultry. Council President Olson suggested that be
considered separately from deleting cats from the exception of roaming at large.
Mayor Haakenson asked why quail were omitted from the definition of poultry. City Attorney Scott
Snyder did not recall, advising it could be accomplished via a simple addition to the code.
Councilmember Moore explained her intent was to remove the exception for cats and asked if anything
else needed to be done. Mr. Snyder answered if cats were removed as an exception, how to identify cats
in order to return them to their owner became an issue, hence the licensing provision. He noted there
were several ways to do licensing; he simply added cats to the dog license section. He suggested the
Council may want to consider whether the current licensing fees were sufficient.
Councilmember Moore commented the reason she did not have Animal Control Officer Dawson attend
tonight's meeting was because it required payment of three hours of overtime. She suggested Officer
Dawson provide a memo to the Council rather than being present at the May 15 public hearing.
Ord#3639 lashPeriod -
Establish 10. PROPOSED ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A PERIOD IN WHICH TO PREPARE AN
in which to APPLICATION AND FORMS OF DECISION.
Prepare an
Application
(New Design Development Services Director Duane Bowman advised the proposed ordinance was to implement the
Review Process) ordinance the Council passed regarding design guidelines. The City Attorney drafted the proposed
ordinance as an interim zoning measure to allow staff to continue to accept applications but provide time
to develop the process and procedures to implement the new ordinance. Staff recommends adoption of
the proposed ordinance and set May 15, 2007 for a public hearing on the interim ordinance. City
Attorney Scott Snyder pointed out the City was also short two staff persons.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT, FOR
ADOPTION OF THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE AND SETTING MAY 15, 2007 AS A PUBLIC
HEARING ON THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The
ordinance reads as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 3639 — ESTABLISHING A PERIOD IN WHICH TO PREPARE AN
APPLICATION AND FORMS OF DECISION, AND FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME SHALL
BECOME EFFECTIVE.
Non -Represented 11. APPROVAL OF NON -REPRESENTED COMPENSATION (NRC) POLICY
Compensation
Policy
Human Resources Manager Debi Humann recalled the NRC Policy was presented to the Council in
August 2006 and discussed again at the Council retreat. As requested by Council at the retreat she was
presenting the NRC Policy to the Council again for consideration.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 12
Ms. Humann explained the current L-5 policy was approved by Council in 2000 and was considered an
improvement over the previous compensation strategy. She noted the L-5 policy had some inherent
problems including difficulty finding satisfactory or workable comparables for at least half the non -
represented positions and it placed value on employees based solely on the outside marketplace with no
applicable internal evaluation method. The NRC attempts to combine the positive aspects of the existing
L-5 policy with improvements to the areas identified as problems.
Improvements incorporated in the NRC include a new process for determining comparables. With the
NRC, comparables are based on two positions, the highest compensation position which would be either
the Police or Fire Chief and the lowest non -represented position, the Human Resources Assistant. The
NRC also includes a much needed internal evaluation component. NRC utilizes a banding method that
bands/groups positions based on like responsibilities. The current L-5 policy requires a significant
amount of time to conduct the large number of surveys and the work inherent with the L-5 method.
She noted the Council's materials included the 2007 updated NRC compensation numbers for the Police
Chief and Human Resources Assistant. She described the process for updating the NRC compensation
which included surveying other cities, creating the worksheets for the two positions and updating the
bands, explaining the entire process took approximately three days compared with the several months
required to conduct L-5 surveys.
She cited numerous reasons for having a viable and workable non -represented compensation policy
including retaining and hiring good employees. When considering the NRC policy, she recommended the
Council consider the following:
• The current non -represented salary ranges were surveyed in 2006; thus the City was at 2005
salary levels with the only increase being the 2007 COLA.
• The City was losing key non -represented employees.
• Current salary ranges made it difficult to fill positions and positions were often filled with
persons with lower skill levels than the employees they were replacing.
• With the last contract negotiation, all five unions now have longevity pay which added to a
growing salary compression issue.
• Union employees were also eligible for and obtained overtime; non -represented staff did not.
She explained the NRC had been reviewed by staff via a series of focus groups, by the Finance
Committee on several occasions and previously by the Council. The goal tonight was to obtain Council
approval for the new NRC policy and if approved, she requested it be retroactive to January 1, 2007.
Councilmember Moore thanked Ms. Humann for her efforts and expressed her thanks for raising the issue
again at the retreat. Council President Olson also thanked Mayor Haakenson for his efforts.
Councilmember Dawson acknowledged the NRC represented a great deal of good work and may require
some refinement in the future. Ms. Humann agreed that was true of every compensation policy,
particularly due to the 41 completely different non -represented positions. Councilmember Dawson
commented it may be necessary in future years to expand the number of bands depending on external
market forces. Ms. Humann agreed that may be necessary, noting the L-5 policy worked admirably for
the first several years; compensation policies were living documents and required adjustment.
Councilmember Dawson asked about new employees being hired 5% above their current salary. Ms.
Humann explained that was utilized when hiring a person from outside the City. Although the goal was
to keep salaries as low as possible, a new employee was often offered 5% over their current salary.
Councilmember Dawson asked about someone working outside their field such as for a non-profit
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 13
corporation. Ms. Humann answered 5% was a generality; there was wording in the policy that allowed
the Mayor, Director and her to identify a reasonable and fair salary within the band. Councilmember
Dawson suggested the wording be changed to state it was a general guideline as it appeared the only
exception was when the position could not be filled or internal salary compression versus external forces.
Councilmember Dawson asked whether more than 5% could be offered to someone coming from a union
position who also received overtime. Ms. Humann advised there was a component for salary
compression that allowed each situation to be considered and an appropriate decision made with regard to
salary. In her experience when hiring from outside, the candidates were not of the same skill level as the
person leaving the position and 5% was appropriate. If the City was hiring someone from the outside
with the skill level of the employees that was leaving, likely the salary would to be negotiated by the
Director and the Mayor.
Councilmember Dawson concluded the 5% was not intended to be a hard and fast rule with regard to
external recruitment. Ms. Humann agreed it was a general guideline and there was wording that allowed
the Mayor to negotiate within the band.
Councilmember Wambolt referred to the 2007 banding, noting there appeared to be quite a difference
when compared to the last banding; differences ranged from 2.7% to 1.0.5% and Band H actually dropped
6.8%. He asked how the new numbers were determined. Ms. Humann explained an L5 survey was done
for the Police Chief position which established Band A as well as a survey for the Human Resources
Assistant position which established Band H. They then divided evenly the different bands by dollar
amounts.
Councilmember Wambolt commented the increases varied widely. Ms. Humann answered the difference
between each band was approximately $11,756.
Mayor Haakenson remanded to Council for action.
COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT OLSON, TO
APPROVE THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NON -REPRESENTED COMPENSATION PLAN
RETROACTIVE TO JANUARY 1, 2007.
Councilmember Marin commented he was satisfied with the NRC policy when it was presented to the
Council previously and since that time more employees had left the City's employ. He pointed out
Edmonds staff did more than employees in comparable cities and he was satisfied the NRC was a good
effort that would serve the City well.
Councilmember Wambolt commented he did not support the policy previously and did not support it
now, finding it severely flawed. He observed the primary reason a new non -represented compensation
policy was needed was that two-thirds of staff were at or within 1-2% of the top of their range and did not
receive a pay increase which he agreed was demoralizing and unacceptable. The reason so many were at
the top of the range was that the current ranges were too narrow; the top was only 25% above the bottom.
The new plan proposes a spread of 50% which would be an improvement; however, expanding the spread
caused the bottom to be lower as well as the top to be higher. Because the ranges were not as low as they
should be, some employees were hired at too high a salary. Surveying only two jobs annually could not
possibly put all the jobs in the proper range. This was too coarse a survey and did not consider jobs in
high demand. He also found the bands too coarse and would cause too big an increase in too many jobs.
He noted there were salary increase guidelines in the NRC but no apparent salary increase budget that
would cap the total amount of increase, an amount that should be approved by the Council each year.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 14
Councilmember Wambolt pointed out the annual pay increases had two components — COLA and merit.
He preferred the COLA be eliminated so that merit increases could be more meaningful. He noted an
employee doing only a satisfactory job could receive a 4% COLA and 1% merit, a total of 5% pay
increase; whereas a more exceptional employee could receive a 6% increase via a 4% COLA and 2%
merit. He preferred to hire a compensation consultant, noting the 2007-2008 budget included $75,000 for
a compensation study. He recommended a temporary stopgap for 2007 and hiring a compensation
consultant in 2008 to conduct a study and propose a new plan.
Councilmember Orvis objected to the NRC policy, pointing out the need for long range projections and
an understanding of how it would impact salaries long term. He was concerned the top salary ranges
were increasing and although each year was a shall step, over time the steps added up. He was also
concerned with surveying only two positions and basing the positions on the maximum of the Director's
position. He preferred to average the Director's positions and set the maximum based on a fixed
percentage above that average.
Councilmember Dawson acknowledged there some kinks in the NRC policy that could be worked out
over time and the Council would rely on the Human Resources professional to make those adjustments.
She noted there were some positions that were easy to compare between cities such as the Assistant Fire
Chief but there were a number of positions that were not comparable to other cities. Therefore a scheme
of internal equities was appropriate to determine salaries. She commented the proposed NRC was better
than the existing policy for most non -represented employees and it was worthwhile to move forward with
this policy. With regard to hiring a compensation consultant, she envisioned the City spending a great
deal of money and not being satisfied with the information provided as it was unlikely satisfactory
comparables could be identified.
Council President Olson expressed her support for the NRC policy, noting the L5 policy, adopted in 2000,
worked for several years but was not working in 2007. There were many non -represented employees who
were unhappy with the L5 policy; the proposed NRC plan had been reviewed by the employees and most
were satisfied with it. She acknowledged the NRC policy could be adjusted in the future if necessary.
Councilmember Wambolt commented a compensation consultant did not survey salaries; the
compensation consultant would structure a plan. He objected to the comment that the City's jobs were
unique, commenting every organization had unique jobs. He noted a match of 60-70% of job duties was
sufficient; there did not need to be a 100% match.
MOTION CARRIED (4-3), COUNCIL PRESIDENT OLSON AND COUNCILMEMBERS
MOORE, DAWSON AND MARIN IN FAVOR; AND COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, PLUNKETT
AND WAMBOLT OPPOSED.
12. REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS
,on ncc Finance Committee
Committee Councilmember Wambolt reported the Committee reviewed the first quarter budget amendment which
was approved on tonight's Consent Agenda. He explained there were several adjustments, seven had
been approved by the Council previously and four had not. Two were covered by private donations, one
was the purchase a police car to replace a car involved in an accident; the City received $13,000 for the
remains of the vehicle and an additional $17,000 was required to replace the vehicle. The final item was
$30,000 for legal fees related to labor negotiations.
Public safety Public Safety Committee
Committee J Councilmember Dawson reported the Committee reviewed an Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the
Fire Department Medical Program Director. The current Medical Program Director for Edmonds and
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 15
Lynnwood has decided to step back from the position he has held since 1998. The Committee approved
proceeding with publishing an RFQ and the subsequent hiring process. The Committee was also
provided an update regarding the graffiti ordinance which will be presented to the full Council on May 1.
13. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Haakenson asked staff to address Mr. Hertrich's comment regarding $590,000 versus $532,000.
caspers, 9tb Ave Assistant City Engineer ineer Don Fiene explained the cost estimates had been updated; the budget was
and Puget Dr p p � g
alkway $380,000. The City also anticipated receiving more grants funds. He concluded the same or less would
be spent on the project; the amount of local funds had not increased appreciably. He noted the $116,000
was the amount awarded tonight for the consultant to do the design work.
Mayor Haakenson asked staff to address Mr. Hertrich's comments regarding the bridge structure that was
part of the Caspers, Ninth Avenue and Puget Drive Walkway project. Mr. Fiene explained contrary to
Mr. Hertrich's comments the bridge would lead toward Sunset, a poplar walking route. Placing the
walkway on the other side of the street would require a dangerous crossing to 3rd Avenue and Sunset.
Mayor Haakenson noted the consultant agreement stated no right-of-way acquisition was anticipated. Mr.
Fiene agreed the City had adequate right-of-way in that area. Mayor Haakenson noted anyone who had
walked/ran that route knew how dangerous it was to cross in that area. He recalled consideration had
been given to a crosswalk but it was deemed too dangerous. He concluded a sidewalk on the north side
would be a great advantage.
Mayor°s g or y Ma Haakenson announced his next neighborhood meeting was scheduled for April 26th at the
eighborhood
Meeting Maplewood Presbyterian Church.
At Councilmember Wambolt's request, Mayor Haakenson offered the City's condolences, thoughts and
prayers to the victims and families of the Virginia Tech shootings.
14. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Easter Egg Hunt
Council President Olson reported she attended the Easter Egg Hunt at City Park with her granddaughter.
She commended City staff for this great community event.
Councilmember Moore thanked the Edmonds Kiwanis Club for having her as their guest this past week.
With regard to neighborhood disputes, she offered the business card of a mediator to Mr. Martin and Mr.
Mediators settle Disputes I McCallum, noting she also provided a card to Mayor Haakenson. She suggested Mayor Haakenson
compile a list of Edmonds mediators to provide a way for neighbors to settle disputes.
Strategic Plan Councilmember Moore reiterated her support for a strategic plan, commenting the City formulating a
strong vision, direction, and strategic plan would put to rest many of the debates over transportation,
affordable housing, etc. as those issues would be addressed in the plan. She noted many cities in the area
and region had strategic plans and she encouraged the City to schedule development of a strategic plan on
their retreat agenda next year. She stated there were consultants who specialized in assisting cities with
developing a strategic plan that included the involvement of citizens. She pointed out the Edmonds Art
Commission retreat agenda included a short and long term view of their strategic plan.
Arts Commission Councilmember Moore noted the Arts Commission was celebrating their 50`h anniversary and had an
artwork display opening on May 12. She recognized new Art Commissioner Greg Banasek.
Councilmember Orvis thanked the Kiwanis Club for having him as their speaker today.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 17, 2007
Page 16
Property Tax Councilmember Wambolt reported he received his property tax assessment from Snohomish County
[Assessment
today which indicated the value increased by 20%. He noted the land value increased 47%. He assured
although the value increased 20%, property taxes did not increase 20% as they were capped at 1 %.
Councilmember Dawson clarified the city and county portion of a citizen's property taxes were capped
but other portions would increase in accordance with the assessed value.
Edmonds skate Councilmember Marin advised of the opening ceremonies for the new Edmonds skate park on Tuesday,
ark April 24 at 5:00 p.m. He noted the ceremony would include speeches and hoped they would include
comments by the youth who participated in a civic effort to bring the skate park to fruition. He recalled
the compelling presentation the youth provided to the Council 2-3 years ago.
Student Student Representative Callahan wished everyone taking WASL testing this week good luck. He
Representative J congratulated an Edmonds-Woodway High School Science Teacher who placed 12th in the Boston
Marathon. He also reported the spring Edmonds-Woodway High School sports schedule was available on
the back table.
15. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:26 p.m.
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April 17, 2007
Page 17