Loading...
20180206 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES February 6, 2018 ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT Dave Earling, Mayor Michael Nelson, Council President Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember Thomas Mesaros, Councilmember Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember (arrived 7:09) Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember Dave Teitzel, Councilmember Neil Tibbott, Councilmember ALSO PRESENT Noal Leonetti, Student Representative CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE STAFF PRESENT Al Compaan, Police Chief Carrie Hite, Parks, Rec. & Cult. Serv. Dir. Patrick Doherty, Econ. Dev & Comm. Serv. Dir. Scott James, Finance Director Mary Ann Hardie, HR Director Frances Chapin, Arts & Culture Program Mgr. 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 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Earling in the Council Chambers, 250 5"' Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute. Mayor Earling offered remarks regarding the incident that occurred outside Harvey's Tavern on Highway 99 this weekend, especially due to the amount of dialogue and comment on social media over past two days. It is alleged that racial -motivated threats were made against youth at the site. Although unable to offer any additional information about the veracity of the allegations as the Edmonds Police Department is still conducing a thorough investigation into the matter, he said the City of Edmonds is an open and accepting community that does not tolerate the type of repugnant behavior alleged in this incident. Upon conclusion of the police department's investigation, if allegations are borne out and criminal charges are warranted, he expected the legal prosecution of the matter would be carried out to the full extent of the law and any perpetrators brought to justice. In the meantime, he encouraged the public to refrain from engaging in accusations and debate via social media or otherwise, especially in light of the privacy and dignity of the parties involved. 2. ROLL CALL City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present with the exception of Councilmember Fraley-Monillas. 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Mayor Earling advised an executive session would be held at the end of the agenda. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 1 4. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows: 1. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF JANUARY 23, 2018 2. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF JANUARY 23, 2018 3. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS 4. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF A CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM COLLEEN CONNOLLY (AMOUNT UNDETERMINED), KIRSTEN JOHNSON ($293.82), AND ANNA HURD ($410.31) 5. SURPLUS CITY COMPUTERS 6. CONFIRMATION OF SOIKOWSKI APPOINTMENT TO A BOARD OR COMMISSION 7. CONFIRMATION OF ONEILL APPOINTMENT TO A BOARD OR COMMISSION 8. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO APPROVE RECORDING OF A 10-FOOT STREET DEDICATION ADJACENT TO 720 13TH WAY SW (PPP COMMITTEE REFERRAL) 9. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN AN INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH CITY OF MUKILTEO TO PROVIDE INSTALLATION OF SLURRY SEALS ON VARIOUS STREETS WITHIN THE CITY OF EDMONDS (PPP COMMITTEE REFERRAL) 10. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN A SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH TETRA TECH FOR ALTERNATIVE REFINEMENT FOR THE LIFT STATION #1 BASIN AND FLOW STUDY (PPP COMMITTEE REFERRAL) 11. EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT 5. PRESENTATIONS 1. 2017 PUBLIC DEFENDER'S ANNUAL REPORT HR Director Mary Ann Hardie introduced Kathleen Kyle, Snohomish County Public Defender Association (SCPDA). Ms. Kyle identified attorneys that service Edmonds, Rick Ko and Phil Mason. SCPDA staff speak a variety of languages including Spanish, Korean, Russian Ukrainian and Vietnamese. SCPDA staff provide reception, daily jail visits, create client files, and schedule client appointments as well as provide social worker and investigator services. Ms. Kyle displayed a graph of Crime in Washington 1995-2015 that illustrates crime in Washington is down; violent crime is stagnant and property and index crimes continue to fall. She reviewed: • Assignment of peiiding cases Year 1" Qtr 2" Qtr 3`d Qtr 4" Qtr 2017 159 129 169 164 2016* 317 253 196 138 * First year, includes transfer of caseload from former provider Serious misdemeanor cases Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 2 rt Qtr 2°d Qtr 3rd Qtr 41n Qtr 2016* 2017 2016* 2017 2016* 2017 2016* 2017 DUI/Physical Control 32 11 12 15 16 18 9 20 Domestic Violence 39 16 24 18 14 21 12 11 Assault (not DV) 10 2 1 0 1 4 2 1 5 * First year, includes transfer of caseload from former provider • Cases assigned by month 2017 Jan Feb Mar Apr May June I July I AugSet I Oct I Nov Dec 50 66 43 35 41 53 1 51 1 72 L46_1 52 151 64 o Numbers do not necessarily reflect an increase in crime, but when there is an uptick in crime, more emphasis patrols or increase in law enforcement results in an increased number of filings • Investigation requests Offense Ty a Investigations DWLS 3rd Degree 2 Theft/ShopliftingTheft/Shoplifting 15 All Other Unlisted Misdemeanors 7 Domestic Violence 30 DUI and Physical Control 14 Criminal Tres ass 1 or 2 3 Violation of Court Order/Protective Order 7 Hit and Run Att and Unatt 5 Simple Traffic Offenses 1 DWLS 1st and 2nd Degree 4 Obstruct a Public Servant 0 Reckless Driving 0 Harassment 1 Assault (not DV) 6 Malicious Mischief 3 Weapons Related Offenses 1 Review of Charges o Driving Charges: 41 % ■ Pending legislation to decriminalize DWLS3 o Crimes Against Person: 16% In 2017 Legislature made the third Assault 4 a felony offense (crimes occurring after July 23, 2017), Edmonds will see a decrease as cases will be handled in superior court o Drug and/or Alcohol as Element of Crime: 21 % o Property Charges: 26% o Other:7% • Crimes of Poverty DWLS3 182 22% Theft 3 135 16% PDP 73 9% Councilmember Johnson asked if the legislature was considering the decriminalization of DWLS3 now. Ms. Kyle responded it is a pending bill; the bill number is in her written report. Councilmember Johnson asked about the impact of decriminalizing DWLS3 on public safety. Ms. Kyle answered the ACLU prepared a report on DLWS3 that found there would be no impact; people who need to drive are driving regardless of whether they have a license and criminalizing it is costing the city a lot of money with no effect on deterrence, relicensing or public safety. The current legislation proposes to decriminalize DWLS3 and make it an infraction, so the court would still see the defendants but on a civil infraction. the city would release Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 3 some savings as a result because those defendants are not entitled to a court -appointed lawyer which reduces public defender costs. However, because those defendants do not have a license, there is a higher non- appearance rate in court; the court issues a bench warrant and when the person is picked up on the bench warrant, the city pays the cost of incarceration even if the person is just given a new court date. Lynnwood did an amnesty program for their bench warrants when they discovered a great deal of money was being spent with no results. Councilmember Johnson asked if there was a correlation between not having insurance and not having a license. Ms. Kyle answered probably, and both are related to poverty. A relicensing program that helps with insurance would be the best way, not jailing people. Councilmember Johnson summarized it is in the legislature's hands. Ms. Kyle continued her presentation: • Criminal Justice Alternatives o Snohomish County Diversion Center ■ Converting the formally mothballed work release facility into a 40 bed transition center with imbedded social workers referring people to services including chemical dependence treatment and housing • Being presented to legislature as a pilot project o Competency Diversion Program • Take mentally ill out of criminal justice system and provide services via Sunrise which includes housing o Other Prevention/Diversion programs • 2016 Thefts 0 50% from one store (I I I thefts) 0 57 of those involved alcohol o $12,372 retail value vs. $196,000 incarceration costs o Store has taken measures to prevent such as caps on alcohol and there is a request to store liquor in cabinets Complying with WSBA indigent defense standards o Monitor caseloads o Access to additional professional services: investigator, social worker, immigration consultation, interpreters o Diligence in meeting with clients in a confidential setting, reviewing discovery, researching legal issues o On -going continuing legal education Trends and updates o Increased Access to the Judicial Information System o Acuity Scheduling o On Call System Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented that one store was closed for two years; she asked about the number of thefts during that time. Ms. Kyle answered she did not have that historical information. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas recalled the previous store in that location had similar issues, summarizing it was a heavy cost to the City for one store. Council President Nelson referred to 27 court order violations and asked what those were typically. Ms. Kyle answered court order violations include no contact orders ordered by the court usually after a criminal conviction for the crime of domestic violence prohibiting the defendant from contacting the victim. It also includes violation of protective orders (civil no contact order), and harassment orders. She noted 27 in 2017 was 2% of the total charges. It is a spectrum of offenses, from a person who prefers not to have contact with Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 4 someone to people who stay in relationships that are in violation of the court order or who use the court order to manage their relationship. The Probation Department developed a Moral Recognition Therapy program to address these dysfunctional relationships from the perspective of the defendant. The program has been well received, allowing defendants to gain insight into behaviors and power dynamics of these relationships and allow them to take corrective action. It will be interesting to see if the program impacts those numbers over time. Council President Nelson thanked Ms. Kyle for highlighting that half the thefts are from one store Councilmember Buckshnis referred to Exhibit 2, Cases by Quarter and Offenses Type and inquired about Domestic Violence — Assault, Reck Enda, 76 cases. Ms. Kyle answered those are Assault 4 Domestic Violence, likely violation of a no contact order and reckless endangerment. Councilmember Buckshnis asked about DWLS 3rd Degree. Ms. Kyle answered that is Driving While License Suspended in the 3rd Degree. Councilmember Tibbott was intrigued by how many social workers are on SCPDA's staff and the languages they speak which he assumed was helpful when visiting clients. He explained the City set aside fund for homelessness and opioid response. He asked to what extent the City could access SCPDA'S social worker services, assuming the City accesses them when SCPDA provides court support. Ms. Kyle applauded the City for their efforts to provide those service at the front end rather than providing them in the criminal justice system through the public defender's office. She would love for SCPDA's social workers to collaborate with the City on resources. Councilmember Tibbott was hopeful the collaboration between the public defender and the police department was relational rather than a mechanism and would allow people to get help. Ms. Kyle commented municipalities know their population which allows social workers to help divert people into services instead of the criminal justice system. Councilmember Teitzel was encouraged by the downward crime rate trend. He asked whether there was a correlation between the health of the economy and crime. Ms. Kyle answered yes, in a healthier economy, there is less use of public defenders because people can hire lawyers. That was noticeable in the 2008 economic downturn when people who previously could hire a lawyer were no longer able to. Every day a person is put in jail, the more likely they are to stay there; every day a person is in college, the less likely they are to go to jail. Councilmember Johnson referred to the presentation from the City's prosecutor who relayed a lot of the liquor is stolen and taken to a middle man in Mill Creek that gives the person cash for drugs. Ms. Kyle said she was not aware of that but was not shocked, because unfortunately, drug addiction is a compulsive behavior. Fortunately, there are a lot of people in recovery living amongst us. They often see, given the opportunity, people start come to out of it after the age 35. Crime rates drop significantly drop after 35-40 years of age. Councilmember Johnson asked about the percentage of legal actions taken to court, noting there are a lot of diversion programs and cases that are mediated before getting to court. Ms. Kyle said as the public defender, the only statistics she has are cases that reach her. In talking with the one store, they police a lot of theft themselves by lecture and trespass and do not call the police for everything. Councilmember Johnson summarized the cases Ms. Kyle identified were ones with defendants. 2. SNOHOMISH COUNTY EMERGENCY RADIO SYSTEM SERS PRESENTATION Police Chief Al Compaan commented SERS is relatively unknown outside of public safety but is a 24/7 entity that provides backbone to first responders, essential communications for police fire and aid personnel in Snohomish County. The system is nearing its end of life and there are plans underway to replace it. He Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 5 introduced Ralph Krusey, Chief Administrative Officer, SERS and Andy Ruschak, StanTec, a consultant retained by SERS. Mr. Krusey provided an overview: • Began in 1999 with South Snohomish County cities o Phase 1: King County border to north of Marysville to Hwy 9 to the water o Phase 2: East to Index and further north to Snohomish County border • Supports 50 agencies, 30 communities • 16 towers located throughout Snohomish, Skagit, Island, King and Kitsap Counties • Infrastructure covers 940 square miles in Snohomish County • When equipment put in 1999, used technology of the day but already old technology • Diagram of how SERS works o Caller --> Dispatcher 4 Tower --> Fire/Police/EMS • Processes 7 million radio transmissions annually o On average, 19,000 transmissions each day o Maintains radio service 24/7 to 5,000 portable and mobile radios ■ The public depends on SERS in critical situations o During the SR 530 slide, incident response used SERS to communicate ■ SERS was able to increase capacity in this remote area to accommodate for more radios, including first responders from other jurisdictions ■ There were over 200 radios in the field on a single day during the recovery efforts o Other examples: Lynnwood apartment fire, active shooters, Everett marina fire, etc. • SERS Radio System Needs to be Replaced o Currently using analog, considering converting to P25 digital system, a national standard for public safety for emergency radios that will double capacity o Failure incident on February 12, 2017 where first responders unable to communicate with dispatch center, took 16-20 minutes to partially restore and 5 '/2 hours to fully restore • Have purchased analog equipment from agencies who have converted to P25 to create stockpile when components no longer available from manufacturer • Why is new technology necessary? o A consulting firm recently conducted an evaluation of the SERS radio system and found the analog technology obsolete. The report also concluded: ■ SERS' radio system, purchased in 2001 is outdated ■ After 2020, the manufacturer will not support it with parts or technical help ■ It is malfunctioning at an increasing rate due to age • The system has reached its capacity and cannot support further growth • Why Can't Frist Responders use Cell Phones instead of Radio System o The radio system has intentional redundancies and backup power systems that are not typical with cell sites, providing continuity of service o In major incidents, cell phone networks can become jammed with overuse, making communication between first responders impossible o Radios also provide communication in out -of -range areas that may not have cell service Mr. Ruschak reviewed: Compared to Cell Phones, two-way radios are mission critical and provide: o Longer battery life o Better network security o Reliable in harsh environments o Practical push button o Superior call quality o Larger coverage area Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 6 Mr. Krusey continued his presentation: • If your radio system doesn't work, it causes o Delay of life-saving services o Increased safety risk to first responders o Decreased communication and understanding of what resources are needed at the scene o Inferior voice quality • Snohomish County needs to act quickly to ensure the communications system for first responders doesn't fail • Benefits of a new system o Reduced risk of failure o Equipment supported by manufacturer o Doubles call capacity o Better voice quality o Improved inter -agency communication in the event of a regional disaster • Timeline for the new Radio System 2017 — Begin bid process 2018 — Award bid 2019 — Design/engineering work begins 2020 — Build new system 3-5 years • We Need to Act Quickly o Snohomish County needs to take the next steps to ensure SERS doesn't fail o Most jurisdictions similar in population to Snohomish County have already or are in the process of upgrading their emergency communication radio system Council President Nelson, SERS Board Member, asked whether an incident like February 12 had ever happened before. Mr. Krusey answered it was the first time in 20 years. Council President Nelson pointed out during an incident like that, dispatch would not be able to hear a police officer calling for backup or aid requesting a paramedic. Observing that the system would no longer be supported after 2020 and the timeframe to build a new system, Council President Nelson asked how the smooth transition to a new system would occur. Mr. Ruschak answered there would be a period of time where both systems would operate in parallel. The timeline for radio replacement will depend on the vendor selected and their strategy for upgrading and maintaining the two systems simultaneously. If the question is how the system is kept operational, he said SERS has already replaced some of the key components such as the dispatch consoles, upgrading the central switch and is getting spare parts from other systems. SERS has taken measures to address key critical items but are facing a situation where the failure rate for the 15-20 year -old equipment will increase over time. Mr. Ruschak asked if the question was the strategy to keep the system running for the next 3-5 years until the project is completely imbedded Council President Nelson wanted to ensure there was some overlap between the existing and new system. Mr. Ruschak explained there will be surplus parts available in 2020 but SERS does not want to be in a situation of replacing 15-20-year old equipment with used 15-20-year- old components. SERS has existing spares for key critical items and is replacing components that have the highest criticality for failure. Council President Nelson asked how long the P25 would last. Mr. Ruschak answered the projected serviceability in the RFP is 20 years. With current technology, 20 years for a radio system is reasonable. Councilmember Buckshnis acknowledged this has needed to happen for a long time, recalling discussions nine years ago. She was interested in the cost sharing including who will determine the method of cost Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 7 sharing as cost sharing is very different using property taxes versus population versus per capita police, etc. Mr. Krusey answered the cost sharing is a draft of the options. SERS is funded differently than Snohomish County 911. He emphasized this presentation was not asking for funding. Councilmember Buckshnis clarified she was interested in how cost sharing will be determined and who will be part of the group that makes that determination. Mr. Krusey answered it would likely be the SERS Board and the dispatch center. They are meeting with Snohomish County 911 to discuss the possibility of a merger/acquisition for consolidation which would provide a broader representation of Snohomish County than the current SERS Board. The request is for the Council to adopt a resolution of support for a new system and ask Snohomish County to find a mechanism to fund it as the County is only entity that can tax the entire county. Councilmember Buckshnis expressed support for replacing the system. Councilmember Mesaros referred to Mr. Kursey's comments about the potential to consolidate Snohomish County 911 with SERS, recalling representatives of those entities attended meetings regarding the merger of SNOCOM and SNOPAC. He has been appointed to the merger task force; those discussions will begin on February 12. Councilmember Teitzel inquired about the 20-year lifespan of a new system. Mr. Ruschak said the RFP is based on a 20-year lifecycle and the cost information requested from the vendors assumes a 20 year operational lifecycle. Lifecycle costing also includes software and hardware refresh in years 5, 11, and 15, the cost of support and communicating to system owners a "last time buy." He summarized the RFP assumes a 20-year operational lifespan and vendors are required to delineate what is needed to achieve that. Councilmember Teitzel asked whether the RFP required assurance from the vendor that replacement parts would be available for 20 years. Mr. Ruschak answered there was no legal requirement for the vendor to verify the system would be supported for 20 years. The focus is achieving 20 years via disclosing operational lifecycle costs for 20 years. Councilmember Teitzel was concerned with investing $75 million and facing replacement of the system in 15 years. Councilmember Teitzel referred to the interoperability with Skagit County and asked how police from Snohomish County involved in a high-speed chase requested backup from Skagit County today Mr. Ruschak explained Snohomish County operates on 800 MHz using trunk technology; some jurisdictions to the north operate on VHF. There are existing mutual interoperable channels they can switch to and much of the inner -operability is handled through the dispatch center. The current SERS system has a VHF and UHF inner -operability overlay programmed on the frequency that neighboring counties use which allows dispatchers to select that channel, talk with Skagit County dispatchers and coordinate. In the near future, SERS first responders will have multi -band radios at their disposal, so they can switch from 800 MHz to VHF and talk to dispatchers in neighboring counties. Councilmember Teitzel asked if the P25 conversion would address that issue. Mr. Ruschak answered P25 technology does not directly address it, but it will be addressed by the newer technology multiband capability radios and the ability for the new radio system to handle the call on the native system and link it to the VHS layer which can be transparent to the user. Councilmember Tibbott commented the maintenance cycle cost would be relatively flat in earlier years and accelerate in later years and asked if that was the experience with the current system and if so, would the same thing happen with a new system. Mr. Ruschak answered the existing system is, 1) based on proprietary technology made only by Motorola which creates an issue when Motorola no longer manufacturers the equipment, and 2) failures are not an on/off situation; as electronic components age, the equipment will still work but at a degraded level. The new radio system depends on IP routing for the interconnection of sites which will use commercial, off -the -shelf switches and routers that are readily accessible on the commercial market. All equipment adheres to the IP protocol which will allow SERS to plan for eventual obsolescence in a more stable manner as they will not be locked to a particular vendor and will use common IP technology rather than proprietary technology. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 8 Councilmember Tibbott relayed his understanding equipment could be set up on a maintenance schedule. Mr. Ruschak said in a 15-20-year lifecycle, the manufacturers will have software refreshers. The new SERS system, depending on the service agreement, will have software and hardware refreshers and in the later years of the system, they will disclose equipment that needs to be planned for. The vendors will be required to fully disclose over the 20-year lifecycle exact what will be needed, the cost of the components and operation and maintenance costs to achieve it. Councilmember Tibbott asked if the support required by the contract include training for users. Mr. Ruschak answered SERS technical staff are required to have formal factory training on the system and network as well as programming and maintenance of mobile and portable radios. Training on dispatch consoles and devices is typically via train the trainer; key people in the 911 center will receive formal training and train others and ultimately each first responder will also receive training. Agencies may have a training officer that will do local training. COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS, TO SCHEDULE THE RESOLUTION ON THE CONSENT AGENDA NEXT WEEK. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 3. STUDY OF ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF ARTS AND CULTURE Economic Development/Community Service Director Patrick Doherty explained the study was an outgrowth of the 2014 Community Cultural Plan which included a stated intention for the City to conduct a study in order to better understand the effects of the arts and culture sector in the Edmonds economy and to provide the basis for further or enhanced actions to support this important sector in the economy and community. As a result, last spring the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services and Economic Development departments sought a consultant to perform this work for the City. After reviewing a competitive slate of consultants, the team of BERK Consulting and AdvisArts Consulting was selected and they conducted a study from late spring 2017 through early 2018. He thanked the City Council for approving the expenditure of funds to conduct the study, the advisory group and the Arts Commission for their input and participation, the invaluable volunteers for their assistance conducting surveys, the organizations and business who participated in the surveys and the public for their invaluable input. Mr. Doherty introduced Brian Murphy, Principal and Project Manager, and Claire Miccio, Senior Associate and Lead Analyst, BERK Consulting. Mr. Murphy recognized Claudia Bach, AdvisArts, who was unable to attend tonight. Mr. Murphy and Ms. Miccio reviewed: • Background and Purpose o Desire for economic impact identified through the 2014 Community Cultural Plan. o Study goals: 1. Help Edmonds better understand the impact of its arts and culture scene on the local economy, as well as the broader community; 2. Provide guidance on how Edmonds can continue to enhance the arts and culture sector to increase its positive impacts. • City project team o Frances White Chapin, Arts & Culture Manager o Patrick Doherty, Economic o Development Director o Carrie Hite, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Director Carrie Hite Project Advisory Group o Alicia Crank, Edmonds Planning Board Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 9 o Ed Dorame, Edmonds Diversity Commission o Lindsey Echelbarger, Cascadia Art Museum o Fred Gouge, Port of Edmonds o Suzy Maloney, Edmonds Arts Commission o Joe McIalwain, Edmonds Center for the Arts o Tom Mesaros, Edmonds'City Council o Mary Monroe, Edmonds Economic Development Commission o Tanya Sharp, Edmonds Arts Commission o Kim Smith, Edmonds Driftwood Players o Pam Stuller, Edmonds Downtown Alliance o Neil Tibbott, Edmonds City Council o Greg Urban, Edmonds Chamber of Commerce o Councilmember Johnson (attended stakeholder interviews) Study Process and Inputs o Study centered on three main inputs I. Project Advisory Group: May - December 2017 ■ Members informed and championed the project, bolstered data collection efforts, vetted survey findings, and guided recommendation development. 2. Stakeholder Interviews: May 2017 Conversations on the economic impact of arts and culture with more than 20 key partners, business owners, policymakers, and community representatives. 3. Online Surveys ■ Organization and Business Survey: August - October 2017 • Community and Visitor Survey: June - October 2017 • Arts & Culture Story Collector: June - October 2017 Key Findings: Makeup of the Sector o ECA and major festivals are anchor attractions, and people come to Edmonds for a variety of arts and cultural attractions provided by at least 100 arts and culture organizations, programs, and businesses. o Diversity in attractions gives the Edmonds arts and culture scene its strength. • 2018 Directory of Arts Organizations and Businesses (as of 1/30/2018) - 44 not -for -profit organizations, programs, and clubs - 57 businesses - 2 public sector entities 0 40 organizations and businesses responded to the survey Key Findings: Benefits in Three Dimensions o Edmonds Arts and Cultural sector produces multiple benefits ■ Economic impact • Quality of life • Community image and identity Key findings: Economic Impact o Visitors attending arts and culture events in Edmonds spend more money than just the cost of their admission. They may: • Participate in waterfront activities • Eat out or have a drink ■ Shop o Residents spend money on arts and culture activities and materials in Edmonds. • 16% spend more than $500 a year on arts and culture lessons, classes, or workshops. • 59% spend between $1-$500 a year on arts- related equipment, supplies, or materials. Economic Impacts Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 10 o Considering direct, indirect, and induced economic activity, the Arts and Culture sector has significant positive impact on Edmonds, generating an estimated: • $50 million a year ■ 440 full-time equivalent positions • $17 million labor income o Direct = direct employment and spending from arts and culture businesses and organizations o Indirect = related spending by community members or visitors who participate in arts and culture events o Induced = spending by individuals who make up the arts and culture employment base • Example of the Ripple Effect o Direct Impact: ECA puts on show that brings in visitors o Indirect impact: some ECA visitors enjoy drinks and a meal at Salt & Iron o Induced impact: Salt & Iron increases staff hours; ECA hires more staff. These workers live in Edmonds and spend money in local businesses • Key Findings: Quality of Life o People in Edmonds describe arts ad culture as one of those things they need or look for in quality of life. Its's what draws them to the community and makes Edmonds an appeal place to live. o Examples of survey respondent comments: • "It's wonderful to walk downtown and find a bustling business district, hear music, see inspiring art, and take the time to stroll the area and hunt for painted rocks." ■ "The arts elevate the entire community. It not only adds interest and beauty, but it also increases property values by making it a desirable place to live." • Key Findings: Community Image and Identity o Arts and culture are what make Edmonds distinct from its neighboring communities; they keep it fresh and attractive. This positive image in the region is what draws residents, visitors, and businesses to Edmonds. o Examples of survey respondent comments: ■ "Arts and culture are the core of how we spend our spare time. We just moved to downtown Edmonds and one primary reason is because of the strong focus on the arts." "As a new resident, I volunteered with the [Edmonds Arts] Festival and immediately met new people, made friends, and became more involved in other community activities. As a result, I feel connected to the community." ■ "Edmonds' arts and culture give it its charm and distinctive community. It is definitely one of the city's assets." ■ "The arts are a huge part of what makes our suburb attractive." Other Key Findings o People living within a short travelling distance of downtown Edmonds, especially within a 30- minute drive, serve as Edmonds' primary market. • Attendees from within a 30-minute drive are a majority of the audience for Edmonds largest arts and culture organizations, specifically Edmonds Center for the Arts. • Tourism from beyond a 30-minute drive represents a modest share for all survey respondents. o Edmonds has a firm foundation of arts and culture attendees and participants, particularly among people 65 and older Recommendations: 1. Strengthen the arts and culture sector citywide in economic development efforts. ■ Embrace arts and culture as a core part of the Edmonds community identity citywide. 2. Integrate arts and culture's contributions to the economy in new and existing community economic development efforts. ■ Seek Creative District designation through Washington State Arts Commission. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 11 ■ Identify arts and culture businesses and stakeholders as a targeted economic cluster along with others in the City's Economic Development Element. • Advocate for city infrastructure decisions that support arts and culture growth. Cultivate a robust arts and culture sector 3. Collaborate to attract target audiences. ■ Expand arts programming targeted to those under 40, families, and ■ communities of color. • Design advisory functions to bring underrepresented populations into planning and decision -making. 4. Work across the community to develop positive visitor experiences. • Bundle dining/drinking, recreation, and lodging opportunities. ■ Make sure the logistics of visitor experiences are easy. • Promote Edmonds' parks and waterfront activities. 5. Market Edmonds regionally and tier marketing investments and strategies. ■ Prioritize marketing and promotion in areas within a 30-minute drive • Explore additional opportunities to attract out -of -area tourists. ■ Continue work with county and state arts, recreation, and tourism entities Communications o Communications handout with recommendations insert will be distributed at public events and made available online Councilmember Tibbott commented he participated in the study and had an opportunity to hear what others had to say. With regard to the estimated economic impact of $50 million, he asked what growth was anticipated and if there had been growth from previous decades. Mr. Murphy responded unfortunately he was unable to answer that as they only have information gathered via the survey. He agreed the $50 million estimate was a range; although the estimate was defensible, understandable, and follows common methodology, it is an imperfect science. Councilmember Tibbott commented there was no mention of music venues, noting music was a way to bridge multiple age groups and possibly multiple venues. Mr. Murphy agreed music was a great idea and tied directly to dining and drinking and can help create stronger connections between arts and culture and businesses and help round out what is offered. Councilmember Tibbott asked if he viewed that as a private or public initiative. Mr. Murphy answered there is always a role for the public sector; the City has demonstrated leadership and support for the arts and culture very successfully via public sector investment. Councilmember Tibbott referred to the 30-minute drive time and asked how valuable a hotel/motel in downtown that provided easy access to art venues would be. Mr. Murphy explained Edmonds is drawing primarily retail visitors although there are exceptions for events. Based on the numbers they found, he did not think arts and culture would fuel demand for overnight lodging in Edmonds. Fortunately, there is overnight lodging in the nearby areas; cross promoting will help strengthen the economies of region. Councilmember Teitzel commented the $50 million economic impact is considerable. He referred to the key finding that ECA and major festivals are anchor attractions and asked if there was any data specific to the ECA. Mr. Murphy answered the ECA draws about 78,000 visitors/year. Considering the ECA's revenue relative to other players in the sector, their portion is 10-15%. ECA is also promoting Edmonds which draws visitors and raises awareness of Edmonds. The City is fortunate to have strong anchors such as ECA and festivals as well as other activities that help round out what is available. Ms. Miccio said ECA attracts 78,000 total attendees and about 50,000 of those are out of town residents. Councilmember Teitzel referred to the findings that the arts generate an estimated $50 million and 440 FTE positions to the regional economic. He asked if regional economy meant Edmonds and nearby communities Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 12 such as Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace or only Edmonds. Mr. Murphy answered the model used to generate the impact was the Washington State Input -Output Model, so the figures are statewide. There is good reason to say they are accruing primarily to Edmonds and to the surrounding communities. Edmonds is part of a regional economy and people move back and forth over the borders so estimates are not specific to Edmonds. Councilmember Buckshnis recalled 5-6 years ago, former Economic Development/Community Services Director Stephen Clifton held a series of workshops with Roger Brooks who talked about branding, etc. She acknowledged Edmonds has older residents with more money to spend and liked the breakdown in the study of different socioeconomic groups and who spends what. The results illustrate there needs to be some focus on areas outside the bowl such as Highway 99, International District, Westgate, etc. She found it fascinating that of the 1,354 survey responses, over half were from outside Edmonds. She was interested in input from the International District and Highway 99 who may have different cultural interests. She concluded Edmonds has an amazing resource of seniors who can afford venues as well as a great deal of volunteers. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas found it interesting that predominantly women of all ages are attending the arts. Ms. Miccio recalled this discussion at the Project Advisory Group and whether that statistic was because women are more willing to take the surveys or more women are attending or a little of both. She relayed volunteers conducting surveys at events encountered both, at times when they intercepted a couple, the woman would take the survey but unfortunately that bias is not captured. Arts and culture also attracts women to events and women often are active in the arts especially participatory arts. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas referred to the statistic regarding attendees/participants over 65 and how to attract people under 40. Ms. Miccio answered the data collected indicated music and participatory arts are popular ways. She acknowledged the survey responses generated a lot of questions. The intentionally short survey did not allow detailed responses to questions. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked if surveys were taken at Music in the Park on Sundays. Arts & Culture Program Manager Frances Chapin answered yes. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said she attends the Music in the Park and wondered whether "hipper" music would attract more young people. Mr. Murphy said his pet theory on attracting a younger audience is for venues to coordinate a calendar offering events 1-2/month to create a critical mass of attractions for young people. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented there are a number of venues with music in the summer such as the Hazel Miller Park, the waterfront, etc. but the music selection may be more sedentary than people in their 30s are interested in. She asked if the impact of the whale watching tours was considered. Ms. Miccio said a member of the Port participated in the Advisory Group. The survey asked people whether visiting the waterfront or a park was part of their plans but not specify which waterfront activity. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked about arts and culture activities outside the bowl. Ms Miccio answered it is important to build relationships with communities outside downtown. For example, there are likely things occurring on Highway 99 that people don't know about; it is important to build connections to those groups including having diverse commissions and councils, etc. Faith communities are another place where events are likely happening. Councilmember Johnson referred to the number of FTEs that arts and culture generates and asked if that included volunteer hours, restaurants, etc. Mr. Murphy answered it does not include volunteers, but it does include staffing restaurants and stores and elsewhere in the economy. Arts and culture in Edmonds generates the equivalent of 440 FTE which are in a number of sectors affected by spending of arts and culture. Some of the FTEs are in arts and culture but not all. Councilmember Johnson summarized it was Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 13 the ripple/multiplier effect. She asked how the 30-minute drive time was modeled as that can be affected by traffic. Mr. Murphy referred to the GIS map that illustrated the 30-minute drive time and acknowledged drive times can vary. He lives in north Seattle and can reach an event in downtown Edmonds on a Saturday night more quickly than downtown Seattle. Council President Nelson commented he does not attend many performances. He did not think that was because the offerings were stale, but as a member of a younger generation, the challenge is child care. He suggested opportunities where either the entire family can participate and/or a date night type concept. He asked whether the five recommendations were in priority order. Mr. Murphy answered 1 and 2 are comprehensive, a philosophical approach to arts and culture and could inform economic development element and capital infrastructure planning. Recommendations 3 - 5 are less City specific and more about the community. The City is fortunate to have a large number of businesses, non-profit and other public - sector agencies that participate in arts and culture. A strength in the community is public sector leadership as well as active participation by the non-profit and for -profit sectors. Mayor Earling commented the Edmonds community has a larger senior population than any other city in Snohomish County, approximately 21% of the population is seniors. They are very important funders and supporters of the various art forms. He was equally interested in engaging the other 79%. He recalled a comment from an interviewee that the arts in Edmonds make Edmonds a very important suburb. He believed Seattle was very important suburb south of Edmonds. The City has worked hard for a long time to create a local identity in South Snohomish County. Ms. Chapin said all the information will be available on the City's website and disseminated in a variety of ways including a public open house on March 1 in the Library Plaza Room at 6 p.m. She invited the community to attend the open house and/or contact her or Mr. Doherty with any questions. She thanked the Council as well as everyone who made the study a success 4. PRESENTATION OF EDC MEMO ON BD1 ZONE GROUND -FLOOR HEIGHT Economic Development/Community Service Director Patrick Doherty explained during 2017 the Economic Development Commission (EDC) explored many issues including potential barriers to redevelopment, development and economic vitality throughout Edmonds. One issue identified downtown that appears to be holding back development in the BD 1 is the required 15-foot ground floor height for new buildings within the 30-foot height limit that restricts new buildings to 2 floors when 3 floor are possible in other zones downtown. Tonight is an opportunity for EDC Vice Chair Mary Monroe to personally present the EDC's memo to Council for future consideration. Vice Chair Monroe explained the EDC is charged with making recommendations to the Mayor and Council about activities and strategies that may increase the economic vitality of the City. The EDC's Development Feasibility Subcommittee has been looking into different ways of enhancing development to further achieve that goal. She reviewed: • Background o Issue: increase city revenues, jobs, housing options and new cultural, shopping and recreation opportunity in Downtown Edmonds o Approach: Revise ground -floor height requirement in BD to encourage new construction and redevelopment of vacant sites and deteriorating structures Zoning map of BD Zone in the downtown core Ground Floor Building I-ieialits Zone Current Proposed Max Building Height BD 1, 2, 3, 4 30 feet 30 feet BD 5 25 feet 25 feet Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 14 Minimum Ground Floor Height I BD 2, 3, 41 5 12 feet 1 12 feet within the designated street front I BD 1 15 feet 12 feet 15-foot minimum ground floor height originally imposed to attract retail to downtown to enhance the goal of a more vibrant retail district o Has not proven to be the case o Builders and property owners not interested in investing in properties as development does not pencil out Diagram of ground floor building heights, current and proposed Perceived benefits: o Opportunities for new cultural, shopping and recreation o Infusion of new revenue into the city budget o Job creation o Housing opportunities o Restoration of existing buildings and/or building facades o Improved look and feel of downtown EDC recognizes could change look of current downtown o Confident design guidelines adopted in 2008 will ensure look and feel of downtown would be maintained EDC Recommendation: o Consider reducing the ground -floor height requirement in BD to 12 feet, as found in all other BD zones, while maintaining the 30-foot building height limit o Forward to Development Services Planning Division for development of code amendments and associated research, processing through Planning Board, and return to City Council with actionable amendments Mr. Doherty recognized a process needed to occur before any change could be adopted. No action is requested; this is an in -person presentation of the EDC's memo. Staff recommends the Council direct this issue to committee for discussion whether to consider this issue and to direct the Development Services Department to pursue a process. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked when the ground -floor height was changed to 15 feet. Vice Chair Monroe answered it was 2006-2007. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas disagreed, recalling it had been in the past 5-8 years. She recalled the reasons for the 15-foot ground -floor height were the same benefits the EDC cited. The concept was suggested by then -Economic Development/Community Service Director Clifton because that was what other areas around Edmonds were doing, particularly Seattle and it made for better retail spaces. She requested the history of why the 15-foot ground -floor height adopted, expressing concern with changing it after only five years. Mr. Doherty said if there was consensus to move forward, that research would be done by staff. Councilmember Tibbott said as the liaison to the EDC, he has heard discussions at EDC meetings but not deliberations at the committee level. For the Council, he asked who served on the EDC subcommittee that did the background work for this recommendation. Vice Chair Monroe said the subcommittee had difficult meeting and she and Commissioner Darrol Haug did most of the research. Councilmember Tibbott asked Vice Chair Monroe about her experience. She answered prior to retirement she was the Project Manager involved with tourism in the Lynnwood's Economic Development Department for 14 years. She was responsible for projects ranging from branding to code and zoning changes to enhance economic development. Prior to working for Lynnwood, she worked in various capacities related to market research. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 15 Councilmember Tibbott recalled mention of "vibrant" several times in her presentation and asked in her experience would this proposal add to the vibrancy of downtown. Vice Chair Monroe answered yes, people living downtown creates synergy, activity, walkability vibrancy and viability. Councilmember Tibbott thanked her for lending her expertise to this project. Councilmember Teitzel suggested it would be important to gather input from the business owners in the BD1 regarding the 15-foot ground -floor height; they may think 15-feet is necessary to attract the type and volume of customers they want. He asked if 12-foot ground -floor heights would improve the chances of a boutique hotel being developed in the BD 1. Mr. Doherty answered in speaking to developers and property owners, the EDC learned the 2-story potential allowed by the 15-floor ground floor regulation is not enough of a return to amortize the investment and the minimum necessary would be 3 stories whether it was a hotel, residential or offices above retail. Vice Chair Monroe said changing the minimum ground -floor height from 15 to 12 did not prevent a 15-foot ground -floor height if the developer/property owner chose. Councilmember Buckshnis recommended more background be provided on this issue including Planning Board minutes, recalling at least two years was spent on this topic due to the controversy from property owners, businesses, etc. She recommended this be referred to the Parks, Planning & Public Works (PPP) Committee. Mr. Doherty reiterated this was the presentation of the memo with the City Council determining whether to refer it to committee who would then direct staff to conduct research, public input, Planning Board input, etc. The EDC does not have authority to direct the Planning Department to do research. It was the consensus of the Council to have the PPP Committee consider this issue. Mr. Doherty relayed the intent was not for the PPP Committee to have substantive discussion of the issue but determine whether to have staff do the necessary research, alternatives, public input, Planning Board input, etc. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas recommended including the history of why the ground -floor height was changed five years ago. 6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS Joe Scordino, Edmonds, retired fisheries biologist, commented on the professional service agreement for the Edmonds Marsh Study. His understanding at the last Council meeting was the Council intended to take the lead role in the contract, yet Council is only mentioned once in the agreement, scope of work and schedule of activities. The scope of work references coordinating with City staff; he assumed that should be Council with public input rather than staff. As the City is contracting for a scientific investigation with no peer review, it is critical to ensure adequate public input so that the type of comments made in peer review are received prior to the final report. The agreement references objectives but he did not see any objectives listed. He recommended including background regarding why the study is being conducted. The scope of work references the current 125-foot buffer as a proposed buffer, but it was approved by the Council and included in the Critical Areas Ordinance. 7. ACTION ITEMS 1. AUTHORIZATION OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR EDMONDS MARSH STUDY Councilmember Mesaros expressed appreciation for Mr. Scordino's input. He referred to Councilmember Buckshnis email that he requested the council assistant distribute to Council regarding eight items associated with the contract. With regard to the comment that this is a contract with the Council, he clarified the contract is actually with the City as the Council is not a legal entity. City Attorney Jeff Taraday agreed, explaining the City is composed of duly authorized representatives, the City is the contracting entity regardless of the role that the duly representatives play. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 16 Councilmember Buckshnis commented her email outlined some of the same concerns expressed by Mr. Scordino. She referred to Footnote 4 on packet page 250, recommending it reference the 110-foot buffer and 15-foot setback. Councilmember Mesaros asked if it would be preferable to eliminate Footnote 4. Councilmember Buckshnis suggested returning it to the City Attorney for further refinement and delay approval for a week. She referenced other suggestions in her email such as for Council President Nelson to sign the agreement and that the white paper does not include the current SMP and CAO adoption. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas relayed her understanding that Councilmember Johnson also had suggestions. She noted it was important the document include everything the Council wants. Councilmember Mesaros recalled following the Council's discussion two weeks ago, he and Development Services Director Shane Hope met to incorporate the changes proposed by the Council. The items in Councilmember Buckshnis' email are new. He suggested finalizing the agreement next week prior to committee meetings. Councilmember Tibbott asked what the task force will do and how it will interact with the Council. Councilmember Mesaros answered the purpose of the task force is to work with the consultants, take public input and schedule presentations to the City Council. Councilmember Tibbott suggested including that in the document. It was the consensus of the Council to schedule the Professional Service Agreement for the Edmonds Marsh Study on the agenda prior to committee meetings. Councilmember Buckshnis said her email is fairly detailed and answered some of the questions raised by Mr. Scordino. She recommended tightening the agreement as this is a scientific baseline study for the SMP inventory and needs to address the scientific aspects. She and Councilmember Mesaros will work with Mr. Taraday to further refine the agreement. 8. STUDY ITEMS DISCUSSION OF CURRENT COUNCIL COMMITTEES AND/OR POSSIBLE CHANGES TO THOSE COMMITTEES Council President Nelson relayed changes were made to the committee structure in summer 2017. Since then he has had feedback from Councilmember on a number of improvements. This is an opportunity for Councilmembers to identify things they would like to have changed, improved or kept status quo. Councilmember Tibbott suggested moving the parks and planning issues to one of the other committees so the Parks, Planning & Public Works (PPP) Committee can focus primarily on public works although he noted there were few parks -related issues at the PPP Committee in the past. He also suggested one of the other two committees meet in the Jury Meeting Room and the PPP Committee move to Council Chambers or the Police Training Room. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented she was not sure the two committee meetings and two business meetings were working efficiently for the Council. Meetings are running late because there is too much business, requiring the Council to make important decisions late in the evening. She proposed returning to one committee meeting and three business meetings per month. She agreed with changing where the committees meet. Councilmember Buckshnis commented the Council was not being given sufficient time to consider issues; a meeting on the first Tuesday, committee night on the second, meeting on the third and study Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 17 session/meeting on the fourth. She agreed with having one committee night and one study session and with changing meeting locations. Councilmember Mesaros said last year he requested the Council Assistant research the duration of Council meetings. He reported on the number of meetings that extended past 10:00: 2014: 23 2015: 21 2016: 13 2017: 10 He concluded the Council was more efficient with two committee nights as there were fewer meetings that extended past 10:00 in 2017. Councilmember Teitzel agreed with Councilmember Buckshnis, the Finance Committee could cover its issues in one committee meeting per month. From a division of labor standpoint, he observed the PPP Committee deals with a lot of complex public works issues that require long, detailed discussions. He agreed with having moving parks issues to the PSP so there is a more equitable division of labor. Councilmember Johnson, a PPP Committee member, recalled only one parks and possibly one planning item discussed by the PPP Committee and a few economic development items. Her objection was the Council has a business meeting every week and has not allocated one night to only committee meetings. As a result, the regular meeting may end by 10:00 but the committee meetings end much later. The next two PPP Committee meetings have 12 public works items which would be impossible to handle in one PPP Committee meeting per month. She anticipated staff may also have concerns about one committee meeting per month. The Council would either need to modify what public works to bring to committee or hold a second PPP Committee meeting. She suggested not have a business meeting prior to committee meetings. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented a number of issues over years that have resulted in late Council meetings including code updates, policy updates, judicial updates, etc. but most of that has been completed. She agreed with moving parks and planning issues to the PSP Committee and possibly spreading public works items to other committees. She summarized the committee work should be spread out more fairly. Council President Nelson said he will take the Council's comments under advisement and make a recommendation at a future meeting for Council discussion and action. Mayor Earling relayed staff s concern that one committee meeting per month can result in delays and make staffs work more complex. Councilmember Buckshnis disagreed, pointing out the Council was never criticized by the past three Mayors for delays caused by one committee meeting per month as the Council always fast -tracked items when necessary. 9. REPORTS ON COUNCIL COMMITTEES Due to the late hour, this item was omitted from the agenda. 10. MAYOR'S COMMENTS Mayor Earling referred to the award of the consultant contract for the Waterfront Access Project, relaying an initial meeting has been held with the consultants and staff. The first meeting of an advisory group, that includes some of the representatives on the previous task force and some new representatives, will be held tomorrow. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 18 Mayor Earling relayed Mr. Williams, Mr. Doherty and he met with Tim Mulvaney, the Washington DC lobbyist during his layover from Washington DC to Wenatchee. They discussed the status of the City's federal grant application for the Waterfront Connector and the recently provided letters of support from the Congressional delegation including Senators Murray and Cantwell and Congresspersons Jayapal, Larson and DelBene. The City is pursing two grants and decisions on the applications are expected in April/May. They also discussed other Edmonds projects including Highway 99 redevelopment, daylighting of Willow Creek, improvements to the Edmonds Marsh and Marina Beach Park and waterfront redevelopment as well as explored the potential of federal funding for those projects. He summarized the conversation with Mr. Mulvaney was very productive. Mayor Earling announced the groundbreaking tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. at Westgate Village, an exciting venture for the community. 11. COUNCIL COMMENTS For Councilmember Fraley-Monillas, Mayor Earling advised Councilmember Mesaros was appointed as chair of the Waterfront Connector Advisory Group. Councilmember Teitzel reported it was interesting last week and the week prior to watch the demolition of the grandstands at Civic Field. Demolition is now complete; the contractor was very efficient, the grandstands came down in sections, and it is very strange to look out and not see the grandstands. He summarized it was a bit bittersweet as the grandstands had been an institution for many years, but their removal paves the way for renovation of the field. Council President Nelson remarked although the Council retreat has historically been held early in the year, he was interested in the retreat focusing on the budget and therefore planned to have the retreat in June. He looked forward to sharing ideas for the retreat at a future meeting. Councilmember Mesaros was pleased to represent the Council as chair of the Edmonds Street Waterfront Connector Advisory Group. The group will include three Edmonds residents as well as representatives from BNSF, Port of Edmonds, Sound Transit, Community Transit, Washington State Ferries, WSDOT, City staff, Tetra Tech and Parametrix. He announced an open house on February 28 at 6 p.m. in the Library Plaza Room. Councilmember Mesaros reported the Edmonds Public Facilities District Board met yesterday and approved proceeding with refinancing bonds and extending the bonds for two years. The savings to the public is approximately $96,000/year and the bonds will be retired in 2027. Councilmember Buckshnis reminded of the Taming Bigfoot kickoff meeting on February 8 at 7 p.m. in the Library Plaza Room. Questions about the website or sign up can be addressed from 6:30-7 p.m. She was pleased Council President Nelson intended to have the budget be the focus of the Council retreat. Councilmember Tibbott reported on the AWC conference and distributed materials regarding homelessness and small cell technology. In the workshop on homelessness, a Deputy Director from Redmond described the work they did and data they gathered which Councilmember Tibbott felt would be helpful for Edmonds. He discussed this with representatives from Lynnwood and Mountlake Terrace who were also expressed interest in a presentation regarding how homelessness impacted Redmond and solutions they developed. He suggested having the Deputy Director make a presentation to the Council about their approach and how they funded it. With regard to small cell technology, he said this could affect the City via cell towers in places where people may not want them. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 19 Councilmember Tibbott reported on a meeting he and the EDC Chair attended regarding global economic forecasts and forecasts for the Puget Sound region. He relayed Snohomish County has approximately 3'/2 years of vacant lots but it takes 4 years for lots to be permitted and developed. Snohomish County was the worst county in terms of buildable land. 12. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING A PERSONNEL ISSUE PER RCW 42.30.110(I)(f), At 9:51 p.m., Mayor Earling announced that the City Council would meet in executive session regarding a personnel issue per RCW 42.30.110(f). He stated that the executive session was scheduled to last approximately 15 minutes and would be held in the Jury Meeting Room, located in the Public Safety Complex. Action may occur as a result of meeting in executive session. Elected officials present at the executive session were: Mayor Earling, and Councilmembers Johnson, Buckshnis, Teitzel, Tibbott, Mesaros and Nelson. Others present were City Attorney Jeff Taraday, HR Director Mary Anne Hardie and Public Works Director Phil Williams. The executive session concluded at 10:02 p.m. 13. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING IN EXECUTIVE SESSION Mayor Earling reconvened the regular City Council meeting at 10:02 p.m. 14. ADJOURN With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:02 p.m. hp.-,�- a 6r,.,S, kv4,,, DAVID 0. EARLING, MAYOR PASSEY, CITY CL Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes February 6, 2018 Page 20