20161122 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
November 22, 2016
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Dave Earling, Mayor
Kristiana Johnson, Council President
Michael Nelson, Councilmember
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
Dave Teitzel, Councilmember
Thomas Mesaros, Councilmember
Neil Tibbott, Councilmember
1. CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE
STAFF PRESENT
Al Compaan, Police Chief
J. Hwang, Police Officer
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Carrie Hite, Parks, Rec. & Cult. Serv. Dir.
Patrick Doherty, Econ. Dev & Comm. Serv. Dir.
Shane Hope, Development Services Director
Scott James, Finance Director
Dave Turley, Assistant Finance Director
Mary Ann Hardie, HR Director
Rob Chave, Planning Manager
Rob English, City Engineer
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Scott Passey, City Clerk
Jerrie Bevington, Camera Operator
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. by Mayer Earling in the Council
Chambers, 250 5'h Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute.
2. ROLL CALL
City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present.
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER, MOVING ITEMS 4.4 —
4.13 TO ACTION ITEMS FOLLOWING THE PUBLIC HEARING. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
4. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
MESAROS, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
The agenda items approved are as follows:
1. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 1, 2016
2. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 15, 2016
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November 22, 2016
Page 1
3. APPROVAL OF CLAIM, PAYROLL AND BENEFIT DIRECT DEPOSIT, CHECKS AND
WIRE PAYMENTS.
14. AUTHORIZATION TO RELEASE THE SALVAGE OF UNIT 779-POL TO EVERGREEN
ADJUSTMENT SERVICE
5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Michael Reagan, Edmonds, said he has meet a lot of people and seen a lot of near misses as a walker,
runner and driver in Edmonds for the past 35 years. About two years ago, he was asked to join a group
interested in facilitating changes to Olympic View Drive to improve safety. The group met with the City,
a lot of good ideas were identified but at the conclusion they were told there was no money. The group
was upset and wanted to be disruptive at City Council meetings to get the Council's attention. He
withdrew from that group, preferring to deal with Councilmembers directly and great changes were
subsequently made to Olympic View Drive. Mayor Earling then asked him to participate in his pedestrian
safety group; the ten members meet regularly and have identified ideas to make Edmonds safer for
pedestrians and drivers. Sadly, the end result has been the same, no money. He supported the $15,000 in
the budget for that group to do something, recognizing that $15,000 may seem like a lot of money but the
group has identified a lot of good ideas that can possibly save lives. Personally, if the Council does not
support that group, he may not be able to continue because he does not have time to sit around and talk
and not do anything. Early this morning he was drawing a police officer killed in San Antonio so he could
mail it to his family today. Although it's difficult to find time for other things, he wants to participate in
the pedestrian safety group because he feels it is important. When the Council is discussing that funding,
he suggested they consider that someone they know could be saved if there were funds to make some
safety improvements.
Kay Hogan, Edmonds, said she moved to Edmonds 1'/2 years ago, primarily because she wanted a
walkable town where she could gracefully grow old. She asked the Council to reconsider adding street
lights in a small section on Pine Street off SR-104. She walks daily to the bus stop, the waterfront, to the
senior center, and downtown to shop. She tries to be home before dark to avoid walking in that section of
Pine Street. She also walks pulling her suitcase to the Amtrak station and to take the bus. The train returns
to Edmonds at 7:15 p.m.; her walk is well lit on SR-104 from the Amtrak station until she reaches Pine
Street where it is pitch dark. This is not a problem in the summer but after daylight savings times ends,
the path off SR-104 onto Pine Street is pitch dark and a very scary. The sidewalk is uneven due to the
slope and in the dark, that is not visible. She has fallen once in that area and scraped her knees and hands
but fears another fall could result in broken bones. Several other seniors live in the area and walk on Pine
Street. Funding for this project would affect the lives of a lot of people in a positive way and she urged
the Council to reconsider funding the lights.
David Honneke, Edmonds, spoke regarding the streetlights, agreeing it is very dark in that area and
during the winter months, rain on the weeds on the walkway make it slick. He recalled about four years
ago driving down the hill and nearly hitting a tree that had fallen across street because it was so dark. He
encouraged the Council to reconsider funding the streetlights. This a walking community and the
streetlight would make it a much safer place to walk. He wished the Council a Happy Thanksgiving.
Pam Erickson, Edmonds, expressed support for Ms. Hogan's comments. She pointed out a new building
with about 84 units will be added to that street and with the added traffic volume, more light will be
needed. She recently came upon a deer while driving; if her headlights had not reflected in the deer's
eyes, she may not have seen it.
Don Ricker, Edmonds, asked the City Council to consider including funds for street lighting on Pine
Street. He commented there have already been a couple near misses including a resident who nearly hit
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November 22, 2016
Page 2
one of the people working on Building 10 who park in the swale where there are no lights and walk up the
hill. He agreed Edmonds is a walking community but residents need safe places to walk.
Tom Graff, Edmonds, board member of the Pt. Edwards HOA, said 436 people live at Pt. Edwards, and
he estimated another 100 will move into Building 10. A significant number of Woodway residents live in
the neighborhood and walk into downtown Edmonds. Walkers are a good thing for the City, when people
get in their car, they are more likely to go elsewhere; walkers almost always go into downtown Edmonds.
At night, that area is pitch black and there are no street lights; the hatchery is on one side and the other
side is wooded. He challenged Councilmembers to walk that area after sunset. Fifty percent of Pt Edwards
homeowners are over 65, 60% are women and they do not feel safe walking in this area at night. During
the summer, it is not a problem but during the winter, it's dark at 5 and icy in the morning. He is
uncomfortable walking that area in the dark to catch a bus or train and he could image how older adults
feel walking in that area. He begged the Council to fund the streetlights.
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE 2017 PROPOSED CITY BUDGET AND POTENTIAL
ADOPTION
Mayor Earling opened the public participation portion of the public hearing. There were no members of
the audience present who wished to provide comment and Mayor Earling closed the public participation
portion of the hearing.
Finance Director Scott James suggested the Council continue discussion regarding the requested changes.
Councilmember Buckshnis suggested further discussion during Item 8.4, scheduled for 60 minutes,
regarding the City budget. Mayor Earling agreed.
ACTION ITEMS
AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE 2016
TRAFFIC IMPACT FEES AND NEW SECTION 3.36 OF ECC
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
TEITZEL, TO ACCEPT. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. RESOLUTION DECLARING A SUBSTANTIAL NEED FOR A 1% PROPERTY TAX
INCREASE
COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS, TO APPROVE. MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL
VOTING NO.
3. ORDINANCE ADOPTING A 1% PROPERTY TAX LEVY INCREASE
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT,
TO APPROVE. MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL VOTING NO.
4. ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE 1% EMS LEVY
COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS, TO
ADOPT. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5. APPROVAL OF 2017-2022 CAPITAL FACILITIES PLAN ELEMENT
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November 22, 2016
Page 3
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
6. APPROVAL OF THE 2017-2022 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS,
TO APPROVE.
Council President Johnson said during a meeting with Council and staff last week to discuss the details of
the CIP, she expressed concern about the speed with which the Council moved through this very
important item and it was suggested the CIP be revisited during the first quarter of 2017.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO AMEND THE MOTION TO REVISIT THE 2017 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM DURING THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2017.
Mayor Earling asked how that would affect projects that need to be moved along. Parks & Recreation
Director Carrie Hite said staff would love to have an adopted CFP/CIP so that projects can be started. Her
understanding from the meeting last week was that the CIP would be discussed possibly as a retreat item
or later in the year but not necessarily revisit the allocations for projects this year because an adopted CIP
is needed to begin applying for grants and getting projects in the queue.
Councilmember Buckshnis expressed support for approving the CIP now. She agreed the Council needs
to review the CIP/CFP with a fine-tooth comb next year either in committee or at the retreat as there may
be some items that need to be removed. She did not support the amendment. Ms. Hite recalled the
meeting last week included discussion about having a Council discussion in the first or second quarter of
2017 about financial policies as they relate to land acquisition. She recalled Council President Johnson's
interest in identifying more funds for land acquisition; that was discouraged at last week's meeting due to
the impact it would have on projects that are already planned for 2017. If Council agrees, staff could work
with the Mayor on how to make that happen.
Council President Johnson agreed that was the take -way from last week's meeting. The group discussed
the CIP and the allocation of REET 1 funds in the CIP. She suggested for next year's budget, this
discussion occur earlier. She agreed further discussion could occur at either the retreat or in committee if
the Council returned to the committee system.
Councilmember Tibbott preferred to look at the CIP through the lens of a policy decision, not redoing it.
He did not support the amendment.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked if having a discussion next year would satisfy Council President
Johnson versus delaying approval of the CIP until next year. Council President Johnson said she,
Councilmembers Tibbott and Teitzel, Mr. Williams, Ms. Hite, Mr. English and Mayor Earling were at the
at the meeting last week. Given the tight turnaround, there isn't time to go into a lengthy discussion. She
agreed it could be a policy discussion or discussed at the long range financial plan.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas did not support the amendment as she did not want to delay the
CIP/CFP. Council President Johnson expressed concern the Council did not begin discussions until
October/November this year and she did not want to wait until the end of the budget process to discuss it
in the future.
Councilmember Teitzel recommended it be considered as a global policy next year. If an opportunity
arises next year to purchase open space, the Council can act without having funds set aside in an open
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November 22, 2016
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space purchase fund. He was uncertain the Council needed to work on reallocating REET right now or in
the first quarter, finding it warranted a more global discussion next year. For that reason, he did not
support the amendment.
AMENDMENT FAILED (1-6), COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON VOTING YES.
MAIN MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON VOTING NO.
7. ADOPTION OF WATER UTILITY TAX ORDINANCE
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, FOR
ADOPTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
8. ORDINANCE AMENDING UTILITY RATES
COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS,
FOR ADOPTION.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said she understood that a majority of the Council supports a
combination of utility taxes that increase taxes by 30% in three years. She pointed out taxation on any
utility is the most destructive on the marginalized in the community. Affected people include seniors and
disabled on fixed incomes and the working poor who are supporting families on a minimum wage.
Regardless of whether they receive a discounted rate, it is a regressive tax increase because it affects those
who can least afford it. A low-income person cannot say they cannot afford lights, water and rent; those
are basic services to survive. Unfortunately, the rates affect renters as well as property owners. The City
should not be taxing water and warmth more than food.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said she supported the 1% property tax increase; property owners have
seen their values increase up to 20% in the last few years. After a recent Council meeting, she heard a few
Councilmembers discussing this taxation proposal; a comment was made that bonding was not okay
because it left a debt to our children and grandchildren. She pointed out funding is needed to replace
years -old pipes, infrastructure that has not been cared for the past 50 years and now needs to be replaced.
Government agencies have been bonding for projects like this for 100 years; bonding has been and always
will be a primary source for infrastructure replacement, not having the poorest in the City pay for the
mistakes of 50 years ago. She did not support the motion.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to page 26 of the packet (November 15, 2015 minutes) that reflects
her opinion.
Councilmember Mesaros said he was the one that made the comment about bonding and how by bonding
the project actually doubles the cost. For those in the City who can least afford utilities, at some point the
bonds need to be repaid and that will be at double the cost in the future for those who can least afford it.
He supported collecting the funds now at a lower cost than collecting it in the future when it would be
more costly. He supported the motion.
Councilmember Nelson voiced his opposition to the proposal and thanked Councilmember Fraley-
Monillas for her comments.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (4-3), COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON AND
COUNCILMEMBERS MESAROS, TEITZEL, AND TIBBOTT VOTING YES; AND
COUNCILMEMBERS NELSON, FRALEY-MONILLAS AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO.
9. RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE 2017 DEVELOPMENT FEE SCHEDULE
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
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Page 5
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
TIBBOTT, TO ACCEPT.
Councilmember Teitzel said he did not have good sense for the relationship between the cost of the
activity and the fee being charged. Without that data, the fee may be well above the cost and approving
the fee schedule tonight will increase the fees further. Without that level of comfort, he did not support
the motion.
MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL VOTING NO.
10. ORDINANCE ASSUMING THE DUTIES OF THE EDMONDS TRANSPORTATION
BENEFIT DISTRICT
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS TO ACCEPT. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
8. STUDY ITEMS
REVIEW OF 2016 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENTS
Planning Manager Rob Chave commented a major Comprehensive Plan overhaul was done last year. This
year only minor amendments were required; the changes are summarized on packet page 420. The
amendments fall into two categories, 1) amendments to the Parks, Recreation & Open Space (PROS) Plan
incorporating the approved Marina Beach Master Plan, and 2) an amendment to the text of the Capital
Facilities Element to add an implementation action (similar to other plan elements). The Council has
reviewed the Capital Facilities Plan on a separate track and it will be incorporated into the final adopting
ordinance. He highlighted more substantial amendments that are being developed and will be reviewed in
early 2017such as the Water Comprehensive Plan and the Street Tree Plan.
Mayor Earling advised a public hearing on the 2016 Comprehensive Plan amendments is scheduled on
December 6.
Council President Johnson referred to PRO Plan amendment 1C, replacing Goal 4.1-1, "Relocate
incompatible uses from sensitive areas (i.e., waterfront dog park at Marina Beach Park)." with "Ensure
uses in environmentally sensitive areas are consistent with critical area regulations and the Shoreline
Master Program." She did not understand what that meant when there was a preexisting dog park. Mr.
Chave answered the reason for the change was as Ms. Hite explained at the Planning Board, the Marina
Beach Master Plan incorporated the dog park. If the intent was to relocate the dog park out of the
waterfront area, that was the time to do it. Council President Johnson said that plan is consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan policy. Mr. Chave agreed incorporating this change would make it consistent. The
concern was the existing language was pretty specific about relocating the dog park. As that was vetted
through a public process and was integrated into the plan, it was felt since it did not run afoul of the
critical area regulations or shoreline regulations, the language should be modified.
Council President Johnson said she understood the dog park was very popular and one Councilmember
was involved in its creation but she questioned whether it would be allowed today under the Shoreline
Management Program (SMP) or the Critical Area Ordinance (CAO). Mr. Chave answered it would; it was
part of the review for the Marina Beach Master Plan. Council President Johnson asked whether a new dog
park would be allowed under the SMP and CAO. Mr. Chave answered it was not necessarily
incompatible. Any proposal would need to be carefully considered within the CAO and SMP and it may
need to be modified or configured in a certain way but he did not see it as outright incompatible. Council
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November 22, 2016
Page 6
President Johnson said she would like that question answered before the public hearing. In reading the
Planning Board minutes, it was alleged it would not be allowed today.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented there are numerous dog parks on water such as Magnuson Park
and on Mercer Island; Edmonds' dog park is not uniquely located near water. She welcomed staffs
research. She referred to the implementation action, "Develop level of service standards for key public
facilities by the end of 2017 ad consider including the standard in the Comprehensive Plan" and asked if
this was similar to a capital facilities budget. Mr. Chave answered that was different; the various utilities
have service standards, most frequently they are in the utility elements. This implementation action is
review to see if there are any gaps. Councilmember Buckshnis asked if this was related to public facilities
the City owns. Ms. Hope answered it was not necessarily the buildings; the intent was to develop a
standard that could be considered as part of the Comprehensive Plan.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether the Street Tree Plan was part of Urban Forestry Management
Plan. Ms. Hope answered they are related; a draft Street Tree Plan was developed this year but some parts
will not be revisited until the Urban Forestry Management Plan is drafted.
2. RENEWAL OF INMATE HOUSING AGREEMENT WITH YAKIMA COUNTY DOC
Police Chief Al Compaan advised this is a one-year extension to the existing agreement. The City has had
an agreement with Yakima County since 2014. Yakima County is willing to renew current agreement
terms and conditions; the only change is a 4.5% increase in the daily rate. This agreement allows the
Police Department to house longer term inmates in Yakima County at considerably less cost to the City
than at Lynnwood or Snohomish County Jails. Yakima County also provides transportation.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented the inclusion of transportation was a good deal. She asked
the rates at the Snohomish County Jail. Chief Compaan said Yakima County's rate is $57.20/day/inmate;
Snohomish County Jail charges $96.13 for their general population prisoners plus a booking fee of
$118.23.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS, TO APPROVE.
Council President Johnson pointed out this is a study item.
MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON VOTING NO.
3. PRESENTATION OF A SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH DAVID EVANS &
ASSOCIATES FOR THE 76TH AND 212TH INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS
PROJECT
City Engineer Rob English explained this went out to bid in June 2016 and 2 bids were received, both
considerably higher than the engineer's estimate. Staff applied for a TIB grant in August 2016 and the
City was recently awarded $2.2 million. The intent is to advertise the project in early 2017. This project is
being repackaged with the Verdant bike lane project on 761" to realize economy of scale related to
construction. This supplemental agreement is a combination of additional design costs and support during
construction by the engineer of record provided by David Evans & Associates. Tasks include updating the
bid package to incorporate the Verdant bike lane project, updating documents to federal requirements and
providing support during the during bid phase. As part of construction management, the engineer will
provide input on requests for information from the contractor, review supplementals, provide geotechnical
support during construction and excavation primarily for stormwater and change order support. The total
fee is $112,000 plus a $10,000 management reserve for a total of $122,864. The cost will be funded by
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November 22, 2016
Page 7
grant dollars, utility funds, 112 Fund and traffic impact fees. As there is no Council meeting next week,
he requested approval of the supplemental agreement tonight to allow the bid package to move forward so
it can be advertised in early 2017.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mayor Earling declared a brief recess.
4. CONTINUED DELIBERATIONS ON THE 2017 PROPOSED CITY BUDGET
Finance Director Scott James introduced Assistant Finance Director Dave Turley and reviewed the
followitta Staff Recommended Budaet Chanaes:
Item #
Budget Book
Page #
Description
Budget
Increase
(Decrease)
GENERAL FUND
1
43 Increase budget for Prosecutor contract
$ 50,000
—Impacts to General Fund
$ 50,000
HOTEL/MOTEL FUND
2
95
Increase budget for Snohomish Coun Tourism
$200
2
95
Decrease budget for Miscellaneous
$200
Impacts to Fund 120 Budget
$0
Mayor Earling advised the increase to the Prosecutor contract is a necessary increase.
Councilmember Buckshnis agreed this is necessary and asked about the funding source. Mr. James
advised it will be from ending fund balance.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL,
TO APPROVE.
Council President Johnson pointed out the Prosecutor will provide an annual report on December 6.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Hotel/Motel Fund change
Mr. James advised this change simply moves $200 from one line to another and has zero impact on the
fund.
COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL MOVED, SECONDED COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
APPROVE. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. James disolaved the Council Reauested Budget Clianaes:
Item #
Budget Book
Page
Description
Cash
Increase
Decrease
Yes/No
GENERAL FUND
1
New Item
Add Social Worker
$ 50,000
Yes
2
New Item
Add Parking Enforcement Officer
82,300
?
3
New Item
Add Traffic Officer
120,600
?
4
New Item
Pedestrian Safety Training
15,000
?
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 8
New Item
Health District Contribution
41,000
Yes
6
New Item
Increase Annual Senior Center Contribution
15,000
Yes
7
V95
New Item
1 Radar Speed Indicator Trailers
22,000
Yes
8
Page 33
Change Miscellaneous to Council Contingency
$0
Yes
Page 143
Reduce Professional Services Budget from
$12,000 to $6,000
(6,000)
Yes
10
Page 143
Reduce Travel Budget from $3,000 to $1,000
(2,000)
Yes
11
Page 143
Reduce Rental Budget from $10,000 to $5,000
(5,000)
Yes
12
Page 143
Reduce Misc. Budget from $13,000 to $5,000
(8,000)
Yes
13
New Item
Historic Preservation Intern
6,000
?
Impacts to General Fund
$319,900
FUND 126 REET 1
13
New Item Land Bank Contribution
$500,000
Impacts to Fund 126 Ending Cash
$500,000
Total Councilmember Requested Changes
$819,900
Item 13: Historic Preservation Intern - $6,000
Council President Johnson relayed Planning Manager Rob Chave estimating that a summer student intern
could be hired at $15/hour for 10 weeks. The primary mission of the HPC is to add historic houses to the
historic register; however, due to their reliance on surveys and volunteer help, it has not progressed. This
would assist the HPC with adding homes to the historic registry. She strongly supported this funding
request.
Councilmember Buckshnis requested Councilmember Teitzel, liaison to the HPC, comment on this
proposal. Councilmember Teitzel said the HPC feels they can narrow their focus and begin moving ahead
but it will require a recommitment by the commissioners. He preferred to allow the HPC to work through
that internal process and get refocused before spending money on an intern. He was not fundamentally
opposed to the proposal but preferred to allow the HPC to work through their internal process.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas suggested this be delayed until the end of the budget to see if was any
money left over for an HPC intern. The City has many boards and commissions that could use extra help
and she agreed with Councilmember Teitzel it may not be the correct time to allocate funds for an intern.
Council President Johnson strongly disagreed, explaining she has been on the have been on HPC for 5'/2 -
6 years and every year they try to reorganize and reinvigorate their efforts but there are only about 18
houses on the historic register. Any reorganization can certainly accommodate a 10-week student intern to
help with adding houses to the register.
Councilmember Tibbott preferred to focus on the 11 projects that the Western Washington University
students will be working on in 2017, and reconsider an intern in 2018 which he noted would sequence
well with the HPC efforts.
Councilmember Buckshnis agreed with Councilmembers Tibbott and Fraley-Monillas. She noted this
could be considered for funding in the summer from the $20,000 Council Contingency. She did not
support this funding request.
Councilmember Teitzel respected and appreciated Council President Johnson's comments and was
reluctant to turn down money for the HPC However, he preferred to hear from the HPC their plans for
using an intern and to date had not heard that request. He preferred to allow the HPC to consider the use
of an intern after their focus has been refined.
Council President Johnson said she would be happy to bring this funding request forward at either the end
of this budget process or during the summer.
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November 22, 2016
Page 9
Councilmember Nelson expressed support for the request.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER NELSON,
TO ALLOCATE $6,000 FOR THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION TO ADD
HISTORIC HOUSES TO THE HISTORIC REGISTER. MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCIL
PRESIDENT JOHNSON AND COUNCILMEMBER NELSON VOTING YES.
Item 4; Pedestrian Safety Training - $15,000
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO SUPPORT THIS ITEM.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she has found money in the budget to support this.
Councilmember Tibbott was encouraged money had been identified in the budget for safety training but
was interested in a more comprehensive plan for the entire City. In addition to pedestrian safety ideas, he
was interested in a public process to determine citizens' support for a citywide plan. He realized $15,000
may not go far, but it will scratch the surface.
Councilmember Nelson said the budget reflects the Council's priorities; pedestrian and traffic safety
should be priorities. As Michael Reagan, a member of the pedestrian safety task force, stated, the task
force has a lot of great ideas but cannot execute them without funds. The group is making presentations
and has developed a PowerPoint regarding being a defensive pedestrian but they need money for
educational materials and guidance. He expressed support for this funding request.
Council President Johnson commented safety should always be the Council's number one concern. She
asked what the pedestrian safety training program will involve, noting Mayor Earling established an ad
hoc pedestrian safety committee this year. She hoped to reinstitute the transportation committee which is
already authorized in the City code, and do training via that committee.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas expressed support for this funding request, recalling the pedestrian
safety commission was started due to two deaths and multiple near misses and injuries in
pedestrian/vehicle accidents. She referred to Mr. Reagan's indication that the committee needs to do more
than just talk, they should be able identify projects to protect citizens. In response to Council President
Johnson's question, she recalled there were plans for conducting training with children and seniors as
children are very vulnerable and several of the accidents involved seniors.
Councilmember Teitzel was supportive of the notion of pedestrian safety but was interested in more detail
regarding how the funds would be used. In listening to Mr. Regan's testimony, it appeared much of the
$15,000 might go toward improving pedestrian safety on Olympic View Drive.
Mayor Earling asked about the funding source. Councilmember Buckshnis said she anticipated the
Council would be reviewing the decision packages where she has identified some expenditures that could
be delayed a year. Mayor Earling said he did not object to that effort, but he would like to know the
source as it may be something important to staff or a program.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas suggested Councilmember Buckshnis provide a list of cost savings to
fund this program at the next Council meeting. Councilmember Buckshnis commented the Council has
never done this before; she recalled in the past Councilmembers have proposed amendments without
identifying a funding source.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 10
COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON CALLED FOR THE QUESTION. VOTE ON THE CALL
FOR THE QUESTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING
NO.
MAIN MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Item 3: Add Traffic {officer - $120,600
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas remind this is the Council's budget; the Mayor presents the budget and
the Council reviews and makes their requests. She was uncomfortable with debating whether funds are
available for the Council requested items when the Council has not reviewed the Mayor's budget to
determine whether funds are available. She agreed with Councilmember Buckshnis that that was a change
from the way it was done in the past. Mr. James said he was providing the list of items the Council
requested so citizens had an opportunity to see them and provide comment. No additional amendments
have been proposed.
Councilmember Nelson explained he requested this item because it's a basic, common experience to
anyone driving or walking that not everyone is abiding by traffic laws. Education is a component but
engineering and enforcement are also necessary. Having four traffic enforcement officers, one on any
given day during the daytime, in a city of 40,000 people is not enough.
Councilmember Tibbott expressed interest in input from the pedestrian safety group regarding this request
and from Chief Compaan. From his perspective, the Police Department does a great job of enforcement;
areas that need additional enforcement should be brought to the Chief s attention. He preferred to see the
pedestrian safety training program proceed including a comprehensive citywide plan and then see if there
is a need for another traffic enforcement officer.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas agreed a traffic officer was warranted and needed; one may not be
enough, two may be needed. There are traffic issues throughout the City; they are visible standing on any
corner. Police staff are doing their jobs, but there are just not enough for a city Edmonds' size and that
need will increase as the City grows. She reminded these are the Council's priorities; it is up to the Mayor
and his staff to fund them. No other legislative body determines how to fund their priorities. The Council
sets the priorities and administration determines how to fund them.
Councilmember Teitzel commented when he lived in Woodway, there was very little tolerance for
speeding. The speed limit throughout Woodway is 25 mph; a driver going 28 mph runs a strong risk of
getting a citation from the one police officer. It many be in part an issue of philosophy about how much
grace is given to speeders. As a frequent driver on 9t to SR-104 where the speed limit is 30 mph, he often
sees drivers going 40 mph, which is too much grace in his opinion. That same issue exists on 76th and
several other streets. He suggested working with the Police Department on the philosophical issue of how
much grace is given to speeders to see what impact that has before adding to the Police Department
budget and if that was not effective, then fund another officer. The proposed position is $121,000 and will
increase every year. He did not support this funding request.
Mayor Earling respected Councilmember Fraley-Monillas' comments, noting every time new staff is
added, it accelerates the budget for the future. He was very careful to emphasis in budget that he was
interested in one-time expenditures that would be successful and there were very few additional staff
other than four positions. He agreed it was Council's decision.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she was on the fence with this request; she agreed with Councilmember
Teitzel after reviewing the numbers and a long discussion with Chief Compaan who said he does not have
the infrastructure for another position. She suggested considering this as well as parking enforcement in a
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 11
committee format next year. This request was a lot of money and she was uncertain where the funds
would be found.
Council President Johnson agreed it was a good idea but did not know how it fit with the overall Police
Department scheme of things, where the additional officer would be utilized, whether it would be
motorcycle or traffic vehicle, etc. She wondered whether it could be accomplished without spending
$121,600.
Councilmember Mesaros appreciated Councilmember Nelson's comments, for a city of 40,000, Edmonds
should do a better job of guarding pedestrians and making it a safe place to live, walk and travel. He was
also on the fence; his heart wants vote to yes but his head says ponder it a little more and allow Chief
Compaan to give the Council guidance and direction. If the Council does not approve this request, he
hoped it would be discussed further in 2017. If an additional officer was needed, he preferred to add it in
2018 in a thoughtful manner rather than in a rush.
COUNCILMEMBER NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO ADD AN ADDITIONAL TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT OFFICER TO THE
BUDGET. UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (3-4), COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON
AND COUNCILMEMBERS NELSON AND FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING YES; AND
COUNCILMEMBERS BUCKSHNIS, MESAROS, TEITZEL AND TIBBOTT VOTING NO.
Item 2. Add Parking. Enforcement Officer - $82,300
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said businesses and citizens have stated the need for better parking
enforcement. Edmonds, the third largest city in Snohomish County, currently has a 0.5 FTE doing parking
enforcement. She assured the issue was much larger than downtown; although downtown was a very
important part because if people cannot park, they do not shop downtown. There are other parts of
Edmonds with abandoned cars, people living in motorhomes as well as a serious need for parking
enforcement. Many businesses have indicated visitors are unable to visit their shops or restaurants
because they cannot find parking. She sent the Council an email from a downtown business in early 2010
regarding this same issue. She appreciated the Police Department brought in a part-time parking
enforcement officer but that was not enough to cover the entire City. She encouraged the Council to
support this for a year; during that year she has requested research be done on potentially contracting out
parking enforcement. Other cities in the state have private parking enforcement that takes a percentage of
the ticket revenue. She has been told that cannot be done in Edmonds as it will cause problems with the
unions but there must be a way because other cities, some larger than Edmonds, do it. She viewed this as
a temporary fix until next year when consideration can be given to hiring a private agency for parking
enforcement.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT
JOHNSON, TO ADD A FULL-TIME PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER FOR 2017 ONLY.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked if the City could hire an enforcement officer for one year. Human
Resources Director Mary Ann Hardie answered it would have to be discussed with the union because a
standalone position does not currently exist in the union contract. Councilmember Buckshnis asked if the
City could contract with someone for one year outside the union contract. Ms. Hardie said that item of
work is considered bargaining unit work, hiring outside the contract likely would result in an unfair labor
practice. Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether the City could hire a parking enforcement officer for
one year. Ms. Hardie answered it would have to be discussed with the union and the union would have to
agree to do that.
Council President Johnson asked whether the animal control/parking enforcement officer was something
the City was bound to by union contract or was there some flexibility. The Council is finding there is not
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 12
sufficient parking enforcement with the current arrangement. Ms. Hardie answered making a substantial
change to the essential functions of represented positions that are negotiated with union would require
discussion/bargaining with the unions.
Councilmember Mesaros recalled during discussions at previous meetings Chief Compaan described
plans to increase parking enforcement. He recalled tonight Councilmember Fraley-Monillas stated there
currently is 0.5 FTE. He requested Chief Compaan restate his plans for 2017. Chief Compaan explained
at currently one of two animal control/parking enforcement/ordinance enforcement officer positions is
filled. The open position has been advertised and staff is in the process of reviewing applications and
interviewing to fill the second FTE. A retiree was brought back to do 19 hours/week of strictly parking
enforcement. The retiree has indicated her plans to leave toward the end of December which will leave
two full-time animal control/parking enforcement/ordinance enforcement officers. On average they are
able to devote about 25% of their time to parking enforcement which is approximately equivalent to 0.5
FTE for parking enforcement.
Councilmember Mesaros referred to Councilmember Fraley-Monillas' comments about abandoned cars
and people living in motorhomes and asked how serious an issue that was in Edmonds. Chief Compaan
answered there has been some of that; typically, a patrol officer responds if a vehicle is occupied. Either a
patrol officer or parking enforcement can deal with abandoned vehicles. The problem has been sporadic
and the Police Department has worked with Public Works on posting areas where people have chosen to
park and live out of their vehicles. Officers try to move them along and find alternate places. It has not
been a huge issue in Edmonds; it is a much larger issue in other areas of Puget Sound. Councilmember
Mesaros asked if adding a parking enforcement officer would make that less of an issue. Chief Compaan
did not envision it would have a huge impact on that issue; the most impact would be making the rounds
for overtime parking, particularly downtown.
Councilmember Teitzel recalled Chief Compaan saying some personnel issues had been resolved with
regard to the parking enforcement/animal control officer, allowing it to operate more smoothly in the
future and have more overtime parking enforcement than in the past. Chief Compaan was confident the
officers could replicate the track record over the past 5-6 years of approximately 1,000 parking
citations/year which he acknowledged was not a huge number on a daily basis. The issue may be a
Council policy and budget decision regarding resources devoted to parking enforcement. In discussions
with members of the business community and Councilmembers, another approach could be to add a part-
time parking enforcement employee but the question is how to fund the position.
Councilmember Teitzel commented in an ideal world parking tickets would not be necessary and there
would be 100% voluntary compliance. It may be necessary to let drivers know that the parking limits will
be enforced and they may get a citation. It appears to be an ongoing problem that has not been getting
better and writing three tickets/day is not sufficient. However, he was concerned with adding a full-time
officer. As Councilmember Fraley-Monillas mentioned, other cities such as Bellevue have contracted
parking enforcement. He was willing to give Chief Compaan six months and see how things go. He
requested an update on the number of citations that have been issued and if the Council feels not enough
is being done, look at contracting or something else. Chief Compaan said the Police Department is more
than willing to work with the Council or a Council committee on this issue and will do their best to
respond.
Councilmember Nelson thanked Chief Compaan for his suggestion of a part-time parking enforcement
officer. He was supportive of that as long as it was an addition and did not reduce any other Police
Department budgetary requests. A part-time officer would be something tangible that would make a
difference. The Council needs to determine how to fund it.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 13
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented the Police Department has had the same staffing pattern
with 75% animal control and 25% parking enforcement since she has been on Council. If that continues,
there will not be any change. One of the issues is if the officer is on an animal control call, they cannot
drop what they're doing to do parking enforcement. As a result, parking does not receive the attention it
should. In response to Councilmember Mesaros, she did not say there were parking issues related to
abandoned cars and motorhomes all over the City, it was primarily in one area. Along Highway 99,
several neighborhoods are impacted by commuters who park and take the bus on Highway 99 because
there is little transit parking. Neighborhoods are also seeing abandoned cars; a car on her street sat in the
travel lane for four days before someone called the police. Without enforcement, there is no control and
unless something different is done, there will be no change downtown or in other areas. She supported
adding a part-time or full-time parking enforcement officer.
Councilmember Nelson asked the cost of a part-time parking enforcement officer. Chief Compaan
estimated it would be half the full-time officer or $40,000 annually. As Ms. Hardie indicated, the position
would have to be negotiated with the guild because there is currently no job description for a part-time
parking enforcement officer. For Councilmember Nelson, Chief Compaan said parking enforcement
would be this person's sole job, replicating what the ad hoc part-time person is doing.
COUNCILMEMBER NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
AMEND THE MOTION TO A PART-TIME PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER.
Council President Johnson said the City had a parking committee led by Karen Wiggins for
approximately 15 years and she served on committee at one time. If the only method used is the chalk
system, the officer needs to be present for more than three hours to issue a ticket. If the officer has an
animal control call, they lose the ability to ticket vehicles. GPS ticket technology, used by Seattle and
other cities, could improve parking enforcement. She suggested if the transportation committee were
reinstated, they could look at parking, pedestrian safety and technology to increase parking enforcement.
Councilmember Nelson commented a dedicated parking enforcement officer will increase revenue to
downtown businesses by having cars move more frequently resulting in more shoppers. In addition, the
position will generate revenue via tickets to offset the cost of the officer.
AMENDMENT CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. James suggested Council propose any additions/amendments to the budget and staff will prepare a
list for consideration at the Council meeting in two weeks.
Reconsider: Pedestrian Safety Corridor — Pine Street
Councilmember Mesaros commented tonight the Council went through an important exercise, taking
public comment. Six people commented on the budget during Audience Comments about pedestrian
safety on one street in the City that is extremely dark and gets darker when it's raining hard. He enjoyed
the discussion and the Council's passion about pedestrian safety training. He knew one of individuals
who testified, she walks throughout the City and he often meets her while walking, but he did not realize
she had fallen in that area.
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER NELSON, TO
REINSTATE THE COUNCIL REQUEST FOR $20,000 FOR STREET LIGHTS ON PINE
STREET.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 14
Council President Johnson raised a point of order; only a person voting on the prevailing side can ask for
reconsideration. Councilmember Mesaros said his motion was not to reconsider, it was to consider putting
$20,000 in the budget. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas observed that was the same motion that did not
pass so it is a motion to reconsider. City Attorney Jeff Taraday said it is technically not a motion to
reconsider because it happened at the last meeting and reconsideration only applies at the same meeting.
Therefore, this is a renewal not reconsideration and is not out of order.
Councilmember Mesaros reiterated when the Council asks for citizen comment, the Council should listen
and be responsive. The focus of public comments tonight was public safety and 80% on this one item.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said the Council is sensitive to citizens walking in dark areas. She asked
how many streets there were in the City with no lighting and whether there was any way to track them.
Mr. Williams answered there was nothing in GIS to identify those areas. He was certain the location
identified during public comment was not only place without lighting, particularly local, residential
streets although Pine was not really a local, residential street. It is not uncommon to have gaps in the
lighting on local streets because most streetlights are on PUD poles.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked how to balance so it not just a Councilmember's neighborhood
that gets crosswalks or lighting. Mr. Williams answered the if citizens call and want a light in a particular
location, staff identifies a PUD pole with electricity and as long as the City is willing to accept the
$9/month bill, staff arranges with PUD to have the light installed. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas
recalled that had been done in City parks. She asked whether the Pine Street area had PUD poles. Mr.
Williams answered no, poles will need to be installed. If this was approved, in an effort to keep the cost
down, staff will provide the labor to trench between the poles and install the conduit; PUD would pull the
wires and install the lights.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said after hearing concerns of citizens walking in the dark, she
questioned how to balance that with other neighborhoods' needs, whether to take each neighborhood as
they came forward. She recalled in areas that need sidewalks, there is priority established. Mr. Williams
said lighting is different than sidewalks; the City inventories sidewalks and identifies and prioritizes
missing sections. That has not been done with streetlights. The City owns very few streetlights so are
somewhat at the mercy of PUD to keep the streets lit. He agreed there were dark spots on other streets
where lights can be installed on PUD poles at the request of a citizen or a group of citizens. He pointed
out not all neighborhoods want streetlights; if there are no sidewalks and the street is short, the light can
be intrusive, especially sodium vapor lights that were used in the past. Most new lights are LED which
allows much better control of the lighting pattern. This dark section of Pine Street is unusually long
because there are no houses in the area and the hatchery is on one side and a wooded area on the other
side. If there were homes in that area, he assumed there would already be lights. People walk though this
area to reach a fairly densely developed area. He concluded it was a meritorious request.
Councilmember Buckshnis recognized citizens from that area also emailed the Council. There are several
areas in her neighborhoods that have no lighting where it is extremely dark such as Hutt park where
people walking use a flashlight. It appears by the information staff has prepared that a determination has
already been made to facilitate a Councilmember's request. Mr. Williams said after receiving a lot of
same emails from the Pt. Edwards neighborhood a year and half ago, long before Councilmember
Mesaros made this funding request, staff explored options and costs with PUD so that information was
available when this request was made. Councilmember Buckshnis referred to Council President Johnson's
request regarding alternatives such as solar or something less costly. She expressed concern with the cost,
$20,000 for 100 feet. Mr. Williams said the distance is much more than 100 feet, likely 300-350 feet;
there would be 4 poles 100 feet apart.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 15
Council President Johnson referred to testimony during Audience Comments that soon there will be 536
units in this area. Dividing those units by the $20,000, the cost of the lighting for each unit is $37.31. She
asked whether the homeowners' association could assess themselves to pay for the lighting. Mr. Williams
recalled the testimony was 536 people not units. This section of Pine Street is in the public domain, Pt.
Edwards property owners do not own property in this area so there is no one to assess in an LID. Pt.
Edward is responsible for all the lighting further up the street and around the new building and existing
buildings. The area of concern is between SR-104 and 300-400 feet up the street. The proposed project
seemed to be the smallest public investment necessary to provide lighting for that section. Council
President Johnson commented it was a question of equity and fairness; when she walks, she carries a
flashlight.
For Councilmember Tibbott, Mr. Williams explained PUD will install the lights and the four locations
will be added to the City's bill, approximately $9/month each. Councilmember Tibbott asked if utility
fees on the lights would pay back the amount invested. Mr. Williams said streetlights are paid from Fund
111, the City pays approximately $250,000/year to PUD for streetlights they operate in Edmonds. The
monthly charge per light varies depending on the wattage.
Councilmember Tibbott commented there was new information provided tonight. He did not like the
process of this coming to the Council at the last minute. He was dismayed staff had been receiving emails
for I1/2 years and had developed a rudimentary plan but had not presented it as a budget item. He walks in
the Hutt Park area where there are only about 100 cars/day; on Pine Street there could be 100 cars/hour.
There is greater traffic volume on Pine Street and it appears there was a plan oversight when the
neighborhood was constructed not to include lighting in that area. Although it was unfortunate this had
been brought to Council in this manner, he found the project worthy. He requested in the future similar
lighting requests be addressed in a more immediate way rather than during the budget discussion. He
supported the motion based on new information provided tonight.
Councilmember Nelson said although carrying a flashlight was something everyone should do when
walking at night, it should not be the City's policy in lieu of providing street lights. There will always will
be instances where a long, well -thought out process would be preferable but there will also be times when
things are brought up at the last minute. The fact is there is a problem, people are telling the Council there
is a problem and they are asking the Council to something about it. This is an unusual location and
circumstance and he supported the motion.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said in her investigation of this area, she noticed the east side of Pine
Street was equally as dark and asked if consideration could be given to installing in that location as well.
Mr. Williams said staff is willing to work with any citizen or group of citizens that desires lighting on
their street. The difference on the east side of Pine Street is the homes there may not want additional
lighting; staff has not received any requests from that neighborhood or any of the other neighborhoods
that have been mentioned. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas described the up and back route someone
walking on Pine Street must follow to use the crosswalk at SR-104. She would like to have a streetlight
on other side of the street. Mr. Williams said it would be considered.
Councilmember Teitzel appreciated citizens taking the time to make their heartfelt comments. However,
if this had been a public hearing about street lighting throughout Edmonds, he anticipated there would be
a room full of people talking about the need for streetlights. After hearing from a small group of citizens,
their request becomes the top priority and he was not sure that was how this should work and how the
City's scarce resources should be prioritized although he was very sympathetic to the need for lighting.
As he said last week, he was concerned about light spillage into the marsh area. The Council has talked at
length about the sensitivity of the marsh and that the wildlife in the marsh that like dark spaces. These two
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 16
reasons give him pause about approving this request, particularly this lighting request becoming the top of
priority when other areas may need lighting more.
In response to Councilmember Teitzel's remarks about light spillage, Councilmember Mesaros suggested
lighting on Pine Street would not be create more light spillage than the existing floodlight in the middle of
the hatchery. In addition, existing lights on SR-104 spill into the marsh area. He concluded light spillage
from Pine Street was not really an issue. He typically walks to City Council meetings on that section of
Pine Street; the east side of Pine has more light due to light from the houses. He recommended the
Council approve this request as it satisfies a need. In response to Councilmembers' concern with process,
he referred to other requests such as the radar speed trailer, parking enforcement and social worker which
had had very little process but yet Councilmembers were comfortable with approving them.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT JOHNSON CALLED FOR THE QUESTION. VOTE ON THE CALL
FOR THE QUESTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
UPON ROLL CALL, MAIN MOTION CARRIED (4-2-1), COUNCILMEMBERS NELSON,
FRALEY-MONILLAS, MESAROS AND TIBBOTT VOTING YES; COUNCIL PRESIDENT
JOHNSON AND COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL VOTING NO; AND COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS ABSTAINING.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to Decision Package 46 on page 146, $8,000 for tree maintenance in
Public Works and the significant increase in supplies repairs, maintenance on page 147, relaying she was
certain the $8,000 for tree maintenance was in the supplies, repairs and maintenance budget. As there is
an arborist in Parks & Recreation Department and Parks & Recreation can purchase trees for Public
Works, she recommended removing Decision Package 46. She pointed out the budget for supplies has
increased from $240,000 in 2016 to $330,000 in 2017; repairs and maintenance has increased from
$45,000 to $52,000. She concluded there was room in those budgets for $8,000 for tree maintenance. She
did not have sufficient information for the $8,000 for tree maintenance and did not feel it was warranted.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO REMOVE DECISION PACKAGE 46.
Council President Johnson pointed out this was a fourth level priority.
MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT VOTING NO.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to decision packages on pages 142-143. For example, Decision
Package 34 added $5,000 to 2017 costs for additional rental/lease budget; she cited the history of the
rental/lease budge: $658 in 2015 actual, $500 in the 2016 budget, $1300 for 2016 estimate and $10,000 in
the 2017 budget. As she wanted better figures on that number, she recommended deleting Decision
Package 34. Mr. Williams said as the budget discussion has been underway for a period of time and these
are detailed questions, he would have preferred an email so he could provide a detailed answer. He was
not prepared to go through his budget line by line tonight. Councilmember Buckshnis said she thought
she had sent Mr. Williams all her line by line questions. Mr. Williams answered no, staff responded to all
Councilmember Buckshnis' questions via Mr. James who emailed all Councilmembers. Mr. James
pointed out the rental/lease was already reduced from $10,000 to $5,000; Item 11 on the list of Council
Requested Budget Changes.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she would have to re -ask her questions that address anomalies in the
numbers. Mayor Earling suggested Councilmember Buckshnis meet with staff to resolve these issues. Mr.
James commented the discussion regarding Pine Street lighting took 25 minutes. He reiterated his request
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 17
for Councilmembers to provide a list of requested changes to give staff and citizens time to react and staff
an opportunity to respond at the next meeting.
Council President Johnson said this was the Council's opportunity to review decision packages; she
suggested it be done systematically and quickly.
Councilmember Tibbott observed now that the list of Council requests has been reviewed and acted on,
there is $100,000 for Council allocation and another $21,000 was identified via discrepancies. He
suggested staff determine whether there were additional savings in the decision packages to cover the
requested items. He was more comfortable having staff identify what could be trimmed from the decision
packages rather than Council going line by line. Mr. James said over the past week, staff identified
approximately $250,000 in additional savings. He reminded of the retro bill the City received from FD1
in the past, anticipating a similar situation will occur due to FD1's unsettled contract. The budget includes
$582,000 for the anticipated FD1 retro but he expected that would not be enough and recommended
putting aside another $200,000 for that purpose. He summarized although $250,000 in savings was
identified in the budget, he preferred to save $200,000 for the FD1 bill which leaves $50,000 for the
Council to allocate.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she was only providing examples. She suggested Mr. Williams explain
why the budget increased so substantially in supplies, repair and maintenance. She was unlikely to change
her opinion about the request to add $8,000 for tree maintenance when the rationale for that number was
not provided. She referred to errors she identified on page 143, commenting had she not identified them,
they would have been included in the budget. She apologized for being overly technical and offered to re -
ask her questions, noting she has five suggested amendments.
Mr. James suggested Councilmembers identify their amendments, staff will prepare a list and research the
amendments for Council consideration at the next meeting. Mayor Earling agreed with Mr. James'
suggestion and suggested Council identify how they wanted to allocate the $121,000. Mr. James
summarized there is $100,000 in Council discretionary funds in the budget, $21,000 in corrections and
$50,000 in savings identified by staff, a total of $171,000.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked the source of the additional $50,000. Mr. James answered staff
reviewed the budget for possible savings and identified an additional $50,000 in unused 2016 budget. He
clarified staff identified $250,000 of which he recommended $200,000 be set aside for FD1.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas thanked Councilmember Buckshnis for her work, recognizing it is a
thankless job. When she reviewing the budget, she did not notice that rental/lease had increased from
$658 in 2015 to $1300 in 2016 to $10,000 in 2017, a 669% increase. She expressed appreciation for the
work Councilmember Buckshnis does, noting without it, the Council could have missed that.
Mr. James suggested Councilmember Buckshnis share the five amendments so that staff can prepare a
list. Councilmember Buckshnis said she shared the one regarding tree maintenance. She requested Mr.
Williams explain the need for that amount.
Council President Johnson inquired about the cost to the City of the SRO, noting it appears to be
budgeted for 100% staffing although the description states the intent is 50/50 cost share with the school
district beginning in September and backfilling of a previous officer and training for a new officer. Chief
Compaan answered the school district will contribute $53,280 which is a 50150 cost share of the salary
and benefits as well as a portion of the vehicle expense during the school year. During the balance of the
year when school was not in session, the officer would be available full-time to the department and the
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 22, 2016
Page 18
school district would not fund that portion. Council President Johnson asked whether that included school
holidays and vacations. Chief Compaan answered during the summer when school is not in session.
Council President Johnson asked what the SRO did during scheduled school vacations. Chief Compaan
answered the SRO often uses his/her own vacation/leave or would work patrol. Council President
Johnson commented it was possible the SRO could do things like pedestrian safety training as part of
their other duties. Chief Compaan said that would fall within the category of other duties as assigned.
Council President Johnson commented even though the officer will not be in the school until September,
training would be required. Chief Compaan explained a new officer will be hired and trained for patrol; a
veteran officer would be selected and assigned as the SRO September 1. He summarized it takes time to
ramp up for the SRO position
Councilmember Mesaros inquired about Councilmember Buckshnis' other amendments. He agreed
Councilmember Buckshnis has done the Council a service by reviewing the budget and developing
questions. Councilmember Buckshnis preferred to put her amendments in writing to Mr. Williams. She
noted if there is an additional $50,000 available, the difference with the Council Requests Changes is only
approximately $2,150. Mr. James pointed out the $20,000 Council Contingency has not allocated.
Councilmember Buckshnis said the expenditures from Council Contingency are from the 2016 Council
Contingency. She planned to propose an amendment to the budget book to separate travel and
miscellaneous in the Council budget. She will send her questions to staff.
8. REPORTS ON OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Councilmember Tibbott reported on the Community Health meeting at Providence Hospital, a fascinating
meeting regarding mental health resources in the area. Providence is interested in having a social worker
in the emergency room to identify problems before they escalate. He anticipated there will be a more
proactive approach to homeless and mental health in Edmonds and in Snohomish County.
Councilmember Tibbott reported the Snohomish County Tomorrow meeting included a presentation
regarding restoration of the 400-acre Qwuloolt Estuary north of Marysville. He circulated a mug he
received and invited Councilmembers to pronounce Qwuloolt. He reported the Economic Development
Commission (EDC) meeting included discussion regarding ideas related to parking in addition to
enforcement. The EDC has provided the Council a memo with a summary of their ideas and he suggested
having an EDC member provide a report to Council.
Councilmember Tibbott reported on the BID meeting that he and Councilmembers Nelson and Teitzel
attended where they described their marketing plans and discussed the sign code issue. He and his wife
attended the League of Women Voters, "Our Children Are Not for Sale" and watched a documentary
filmed in Seattle about sex trafficking, "The Long Night." A detective on the FBI Task Force who spoke
at the event affirmed she is working sex trafficking cases in every high school in the area. As it is a
Seattle -based documentary, he suggested it was worthwhile for Councilmembers to watch and offered to
provide a link to the video. see. His wife works with a group Seattle Against Slavery. He asked the
detective if a social worker in the Police Department would help with this issue. Her response was no, the
City could have more impact by having a social worker help with housing and support for girls who are
coming out of that life. He suggested working with the involved entities to understand how best to utilize
the City's social worker.
Councilmember Mesaros reported in addition to attending the Seashore Transportation Forum and the
Public Facilities District meeting, Chief Compaan invited him to attend the SNOCOM/SNOPAC Joint
Task Force meeting. The Task Force has narrowed 12-13 options to 4 options:
• Option 1: Status Quo
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November 22, 2016
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o Agencies stand alone, work more closely together
Option 2: Eliminate the demarcation line between SNOCOM and SNOPAC
o Agencies remain standalone. Calls in jointly served area rerouted to either SNOCOM or
SNOPAC
Option 3: Aggressive Cross PSAP Processing
o Agencies remain stand-alone and fully process all CAD entries for the 911 calls they receive
Option 4: Full consolidation
o Fully consolidated agency with one or two facilities
Councilmember Mesaros explained the issues being discussed include finances, improving service,
structure of governance and structure of the entity. Currently SNOPAC board members are all fire or
police professionals and SNOCOM board members are a mix of elected officials and professionals. He
and Chief Compaan will make a presentation to the Council at a future meeting, anticipating at some
point there will be a vote on the consolidation.
Councilmember Teitzel reported the Disability Board is working on policies to limit the City's financial
exposure while fully meeting the needs of the LEOFFI retirees such as requiring the retiree to first utilize
a generic prescription.
Councilmember Teitzel reported the Diversity Commission meeting included interviews of three
candidates for one open position. All three candidates were outstanding; the candidate the Commission
selects will be forwarded to Council for interview and approval. He reported the Planning Board public
hearing regarding Civic Field included a great deal of public comment and engagement in the final design
elements and locating elements in places that create the least noise issue with nearby neighbors.
Councilmember Teitzel reported the Historic Preservation Commission (UPC) is working on the potential
listing of a home at 3rd & Caspers on the local historic register. The HPC also discussed the interpretive
panels, funded via the Council Contingency Fund, to be installed at the south end of Sunset and in Yost
Park. The HPC wants to ensure their name is on panels to publicize the HPC. As mentioned earlier, the
HPC will be reassessing commissioners' functions and working together to do historic assessments, etc.
Council President Johnson reported the Highway 99 open house was well attended for a dark and stormy
night and the attendees provided feedback for the consultant. She also attended the South County Cities
dinner where the focus was the legislative agenda for next session; the City's legislative consultant
Jennifer Ziegler will make a presentation to the Council in December. She attended the TEDx Talks
sponsored by the Sno-Isle Library which she noted are available online. She attended two Port of
Edmonds Commission meetings; the Port is developing an informational piece highlighting their work
that will be mailed to the entire City of Edmonds. The Port reported they are in black in Harbor Square,
have new rentals and are 90% rented.
Councilmember Buckshnis reported on the Tree Board; the Arbor Day planting was fabulous even though
all the volunteers did not show up. Julia Munger, Herrera, is assisting the Tree Board with the Tree City
USA application. Tree Board members will be going to Tree Board University, a course on trees,
cooperation and coordination, etc. She reported the WRIA 8 meeting included approval of their budget
and a video presentation regarding projects including one in Issaquah that many were originally opposed
to but once it was constructed was supported by the community. She displayed a "Living with Salmon in
King County" brochure.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas reported she has seen the sex trafficking documentary. She remarked
there have been females freed from hotels on Highway 99 by the Edmonds Police Department. She
attended a Veterans Day celebration in Seattle; next year Edmonds can have its own Veterans Day
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November 22, 2016
Page 20
celebration at the Veteran's Plaza. She attended three Snohomish Health District meetings; the district is
exploring reorganization. She also attended the Highway 99 open house, and she thanked Teresa Wippel,
My Edmonds News, for videoing it. She remarked on how multicultural the people attending the open
house were, a good representation of people who live near Highway 99. She also attended the South
County City dinner with Mayor Earling and Council President Johnson.
Councilmember Nelson reported on the Ed! meeting, where in addition to talking about the sign code,
they reported new baskets are being designed to replace the existing umbrellas holders because in
addition to the umbrellas disappearing, the baskets are being used as garbage cans. He also attended the
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee meeting where they discussed the 2017 budget; 2016 was another
banner year for lodging tax so the LTAC's 2017 budget has also increased.
Councilmember Nelson reported on the Snohomish County Emergency Radio Service (SERS) Board
meeting; a new network, FirstNet (First Responder Network Authority), an independent government
agency created by Congress in 2012, sets aside $7 billion for a wireless network spectrum. They will
partner with existing telecommunication structures and dedicate a certain portion to police and fire during
emergencies. Depending on usage during an emergency, broadband communications will automatically
be downgraded to increase police and fire communication.
9. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Earling reported on his first opportunity to attend the holiday market on Saturday; it was very fun
and he encouraged the pubic to visit. He also encouraged the pubic to attend the Tree Lighting ceremony
on Saturday at 5:00-ish. He reported the City is getting close to resolution of negotiations with FD1. A
public hearing is scheduled on December 6 where the consultant, Fitch & Associates, will make a
presentation. Council will receive a draft copy of the agreement although details are still being worked
out. Following the presentation and public hearing on December 6, he was hopeful the Council could take
action at the December 13 meeting. He wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
10. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Reflecting on the upcoming Thanksgiving and the times we live in, Councilmember Nelson described
when Thanksgiving was first declared a national holiday: 1863, U.S. citizens were at war with each other,
the Battle at Gettysburg had just finished, the largest loss of life in one battle in the Civil War, a turning
point where the Union Army would go on to defeat the Confederacy and all it stood for. President
Lincoln, always looking for opportunity for unity, declared Thanksgiving a national holiday to promote
unity. Councilmember Nelson wished that Thanksgiving will once again provide a period of unity in a
time when the country is clearly divided. He hoped as the country moved forward, everyone worked on
what unites us, not what divides us.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving
Councilmember Buckshnis echoed Councilmember Nelson's comments and wished everyone a Happy
Thanksgiving. She reiterated there will be a public hearing on the City's contract with FD1 on December
6; the Council is not meeting next week, November 29. She urged citizens to watch for information
regarding FD1 as the Council wanted to hear the public's comments.
Council President Johnson wished everyone Happy Thanksgiving. She requested Councilmembers
forward any questions about the budget to Mr. James for distribution.
Councilmember Teitzel said he was feeling very thankful as both his daughters will be home for
Thanksgiving. He was especially thankful to be living in a great city like Edmonds and he would not want
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November 22, 2016
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to live anywhere else. He thanked Councilmembers for the great work they've done this year and wished
the Council, staff and citizens Happy Thanksgiving.
Councilmember Mesaros said Thanksgiving is his favorite holiday, a great time to be with family, eat and
play games.
Councilmember Tibbott was thankful and glad the county could celebrate Thanksgiving. He wished
everyone Happy Thanksgiving. He and his wife visited the holiday market spur of moment but found
parking place. The market is fantastic and the restrooms are operational. Mayor Earling pointed out the
restrooms are not always open as work is still being done; they are open during market. Councilmember
Tibbott remarked the restrooms are industrial strength and built to last.
11. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION
PER RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)
This item was not needed.
12. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING IN
EXECUTIVE SESSION
This item was not needed.
13. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:03 p.m.
DAVID O. EARLING, MAYOR
SCO P SIY, CITY L K
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November 22, 2016
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