20181127 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
November 27, 2018
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Dave Earling, Mayor
Michael Nelson, Council President
Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember
Thomas Mesaros, Councilmember
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
Dave Teitzel, Councilmember
Neil Tibbott, Councilmember
1. CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE
STAFF PRESENT
Al Compaan, Police Chief
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
Mary Ann Hardie, HR Director
Dave Turley, Assistant Finance Director
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.
2. ROLL CALL
City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present.
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mayor Earling advised Item 5, Snohomish Health District Presentation, was removed from the agenda as
the presenter was not available.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
4. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Johnson requested Item 4.4 be removed from the Consent Agenda.
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS TO APPROVE THE REMAINDER OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows:
1. SEPTEMBER 2018 QUARTERLY FINANCIAL REPORT
2. APPROVAL OF CLAIM, PAYROLL AND BENEFIT CHECKS, DIRECT DEPOSIT AND
WIRE PAYMENTS.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 1
ONE-YEAR RENEWAL OF THE LIGHTHOUSE, PLLC CONTRACT (LIGHTHOUSE)
5. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN A SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH
MURRAYSMITH FOR THE FIVE CORNERS RESERVOIR RECOATING PROJECT
6. DRAINAGE EASEMENT AT 1015 BELL STREET
5. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT
1. SENIOR CENTER LEASE AMENDMENT PROPOSAL (previously Consent Agenda Item
4.4)
Councilmember Johnson recalled she had reservations when the ground lease was presented to City Council
three years ago, primarily of an environmental nature and her concerns have not been completely satisfied.
She was aware there were plans to build the building 12 inches about the flood area; however, with global
warming, king tides and flooding, she was not convinced this was the best decision for the City with regard
to the location of the senior center. She will not vote in favor of the lease amendment.
In the event the breakwater was not sufficient or was damaged during construction, Councilmember
Johnson was unclear who would be financially responsible, whether the cost would be shared 50/50 or if it
would be 100% the City's responsibility. She pointed out there is inadequate parking in that area and there
needs to be a plan for parking such as utilizing adjacent parking lots or a parking system for larger events.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said she and other Councilmembers have received several comments from
citizens regarding the Senior Center. She asked who would be responsible if the Senior Center defaults on
the loan they are considering for the remainder of the building funds. She was told by the executive director
that whoever loans them the money will be out the money, that the City will not be responsible to pay back
the loans. For clarification, she explained the Senior Center will own the new building, but the City owns
the land. City Attorney Jeff Taraday referred to Paragraph 4.3 in the proposed ground lease which addresses
many related topics including the specific question Councilmember Fraley-Monillas raised with regard to
loans. He read from the paragraph, "Senior Center shall not encumber the Property or any Improvements
thereon without prior written approval of the City." That sentence prevents the Senior Center from using
the City's property or their building on the City's property as collateral for a loan. He used the example of
a mortgage where the land secures the loan; the Senior Center cannot do that in this situation. Any loans
the Senior Center gets would most likely be unsecured although he did not have information related to their
financial plan and suggested those questions be directed to the Senior Center. Based on this sentence, he
assumed most of their loans would be unsecured. To the extend there is a default on an unsecured loan, that
is between the Senior Center and the lender and the City should not have any liability to make up any
default.
Councilmember Teitzel read from Section 4.3 of the Ground Lease, "Failure to remove the lien or furnish
the cash or bond acceptable to the City within thirty (30) days shall constitute an Event of Default under
this Lease and the City shall automatically have the right, but not the obligation, to pay the lien in full with
no notice to Senior Center and Senior Center shall immediately reimburse the City for any sums so paid to
remove any such lien." He inquired about the word "immediately" in this clause; immediately to him meant
without delay and he asked if that could mean the same day. He said "immediately" was a term of art and
he was troubled by a term of art in a legal document. Mr. Taraday did not agree it was a term of art; a
general legal principle in interpreting legal documents is that unless there is a specific reason to interpret a
word in a way that's different than its regular, plain dictionary meaning, the regular, plain dictionary
definition is used. He did not see a reason to interpret "immediately" differently than it would be used in
ordinary speech.
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Page 2
Mr. Taraday provided context for this sentence, noting if the Senior Center can't encumber the property,
how could there be liens. Under state law, when a contractor or subcontractor works on property and doesn't
get paid for the work, they are entitled to file a lien on the real property to ensure they will ultimately get
paid. That is theoretically how these liens could arise. The Senior Center is not authorized to not pay its
contractors and furthermore, it provides that the Senior Center would obtain a performance bond to ensure
if they aren't able to pay their contactors, a third party would pay the contractors. He concluded the City
was well protected in that regard.
With regard to "immediately," Mr. Taraday explained if the lien was not removed immediately, Senior
Center would be in default under the lease and the lease provides various different ways of correcting
defaults, one of which, in the most extreme cases of default where there is no other viable remedy, the City
could terminate the lease in which case all improvements located on the property would become the City's
property. He did not anticipate that would ever be necessary given the protection provided by the
performance bond.
Councilmember Johnson recognized the seawall was outside the footprint of the build, but its sole intent
was to protect the building. She asked if the lease agreement addressed responsibility for the seawall. Mr.
Taraday said it does not directly address replacement of the seawall; the seawall is be outside the footprint
that the Senior Center is leasing from City. Councilmember Johnson asked if the City would be responsible
for maintaining or replacing the seawall even if its sole function was to protect building. Mr. Taraday said
the seawall protects not just building but also the parking lot which provides parking for the building and
City's adjacent park as well as protects the City's trail system located on the waterfront side of building.
Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite said the seawall is currently the City's responsibility to maintain.
If the seawall were damaged due to construction of building, which is not covered in lease, she believed it
would be the Senior Center's responsibility. If there was any damage to the adjoining Ebbtide building, the
sidewalk or sections of the parking lot that are planned to be reconstructed, it would the Senior Center's
responsibility as part of the construction project. Mr. Taraday agreed. Councilmember Johnson commented
the property is a former site of a sawmill, so what under the surface is unknow.
Councilmember Buckshnis recalled in September the Finance Committee asked for an updated proforma
that replaced TBD with numbers as well as an updated feasibility study the reflected the $16M estimated
cost, but those have not been provided. She observed the Senior Center may borrow $1.5M. She asked if
the City could loan money to the Senior Center, similar to the loan to the Edmonds Public Facilities District,
if the Center was unable to sustain its profitability. Mr. Taraday answered there was nothing preventing the
City from choosing to lend money to the Senior Center, but there was also nothing that obligated the City
to lend them money. The lease expressly contemplates the City Council will have a forthcoming opportunity
to revisit their financial circumstances.
Mr. Taraday referenced Section 4. 1.1 of the proposed lease which states "Senior Center shall undertake no
demolition, construction, remodeling, alteration, or changes ("Work") on or to the Property without the
prior written consent of the City, which shall be within the discretion of the City Council to withhold or
deny. In applying its discretion, the City Council shall consider, among other factors deemed relevant by
the City Council, the extent to which the Senior Center has secured sufficient capital and/or financing to
complete the construction of the Building, the construction of other improvements to the Property, and
related financial obligations (including having an adequate contingency fund for the contemplated Work
)...7f
Councilmember Buckshnis clarified the City could choose not to authorize the Senior Center to break
ground if their financials are not sufficient to support the project. Mr. Taraday agreed, when the Senior
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Page 3
Center comes to the Council in a few months seeking that authority, the City Council will have another
opportunity to review their financial status and the extent to which they have the capital secured and decide
whether the Council is comfortable moving forward.
Council President Nelson commented on the importance of continuing the long-term partnership for this
vital community asset.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS, TO
APPROVE THE OPTION TO LEASE BETWEEN THE SENIOR CENTER AND THE CITY OF
EDMONDS. MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON VOTING NO.
6. PRESENTATIONS
1. SNOHOMISH HEALTH DISTRICT PRESENTATION
This item was removed from the agenda.
7. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Dave Cooper, Edmonds, referred to the Housing Strategy Task Force, commenting he has been following
this issue for a long time. He urged the Council to listen to the people who are opposed to Housing Strategy
and have very deep concerns about it. In the meetings he has attended, 75-80% of the people are opposed;
many others who do not have time to attend meetings are very concerned about the Housing Strategy. The
original task force represented special interests and did not reflect the citizens of Edmonds which is the
reason for the opposition. It would be more cost effective in the long run to involve the people who are
opposed to the draft Housing Strategy, get their input and develop a strategy everyone can agree on instead
of doing it multiple times. There has been talk of litigation if the Housing Strategy is passed. He supports
the concept of more density in Edmonds, but his other concerns have been ignored. He was impressed with
how hard the City Council works and suggested it may be time to move to a paid City Council because a
Council paid for by the taxpayers would provide better representation and, as a taxpayer, he would be
willing to pay for that.
Jay Huag, Edmonds, said he first learned of the Housing Strategy Review agenda item yesterday. He and
others understand the thinking behind it and many like the reset date of the 2020 but the way the Citizen
Housing Commission is chosen is one of the biggest concerns as there does not appear to be an open
application process and Councilmembers who vote one way will appoint accordingly. The current
administration seems to be controlling a good portion of the process. Most citizens weren't fooled by the
charade this summer and fall regarding the Housing Strategy and the trust factor is almost non-existent.
Mayor Earling having two information meetings in the heart of the holiday season, December 3 and 13,
makes it appear there is once again a rush to complete the Housing Strategy. He requested the City Council
remove the Housing Strategy from of the Comprehensive Plan and develop a new plan with citizen input
and transparency. He will trust in the process until he doesn't; government doesn't always get it wrong,
such as with the Housing Strategy, and when enough citizens speak up, the Council needs to listen. Some
of the ideas may be helpful in starting a new open and inclusive process in 2019 that will truly reflect what
the residents of Edmonds want. Citizens do not want Edmonds to be another cookie -cutter town which the
original strategy intended to do. He urged the Council to reach out to the citizens; hundreds have come to
meetings, open houses, town halls, workshops, to speak honestly about what they want the Council to do.
Rebecca Anderson, Edmonds, was encouraged by the efforts being made regarding the Housing Strategy
process, specifically how to include more input and participation from residents which will result in a better
outcome that will benefit residents of Edmonds. Rushing through another draft of the Housing Strategy
would likely result in more skepticism from residents. She was encouraged to see some Councilmembers
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working on the challenge of how to include more residents in the process as illustrated by the Housing
Strategy Review submitted by Councilmembers Teitzel and Buckshnis on tonight's agenda. With regard to
the questions in that document, should the Council obtain the services of consultant, she suggested the skill
set may exist among residents willing to assist in that role. With regard to citizen involvement, she was
unsure creating a commission at the Council level was an open enough process; for example, how would a
commission reach out to all residents, all neighborhoods. She proposed the positions be restricted to
residents not already on other City commissions, task forces or committees so they could focus on Housing
Strategy. Regarding communication, she said the City can do better; emails and websites are only helpful
when people know how to sign up or where to look. She suggested sending a postcard to all Edmonds
residents informing of the strategy effort and inviting them to provide input and be informed of the process.
Even with the new commission, the need for a better process remains. She encouraged the Council to review
the revised plan for Housing Strategy Adoption process submitted by residents during Audience Comments
at the November 13 Council meeting for inspiration. She thanked the Council for working on ways to
include more Edmonds residents in this important issue, but there seems to be lack of cohesiveness between
the administration and City Council; they seem to be working in parallel rather than together on the Housing
Strategy issue. For example, last week there was communication from the City regarding two public
information meetings scheduled for next month. She asked how that effort relates to the process the Council
will be discussing tonight. It would be more productive and less taxing if the administration and Council
worked together.
Jeff Scherrer, Edmonds, expressed appreciation for the City Council, Mayor and staffs efforts. He
relayed a quote from Dr. Adrian Rogers in 1931 "You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating
the wealthy out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for
without receiving. The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take
from somebody else. When half the people get the idea they do not have to work because the other half is
going to take care of them and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because
somebody else is going to get what they worked for, that is about the end of any nation. You cannot multiply
wealth by dividing it." He suggested considering that quote in the discussion of the Housing Strategy. He
asked the City Council to remove the Housing Strategy from the Comprehensive Plan and begin a process
in 2019 that truly involves Edmonds residents.
Mike Hanning, Edmonds, agreed with the request to remove the Housing Strategy from the
Comprehensive Plan and involve citizens instead of the handpicked task force and advisory group. He
suggested a group of regular citizens, not people with special interests, so the plan reflects what the residents
of Edmonds want.
Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, commented the City seems to be making progress on the Housing Strategy
issue. Next, he relayed that the ferry will take over the waterfront in the future. Part of their recent long-
range planning includes larger ferries which results in more people waiting for the ferry and the need for
more parking, as well as another slip south of the current terminal. The terminal will eventually have a ferry
parked overnight, a 70 -foot tall structure that will block views from Main Street. Yet, there seems to be no
resistance to that plan. He recalled when he was on the Council, there were several disagreements with the
ferry and they eventually sought an alternate location, the Unocal site. Ferry service will not improve with
an additional slip because the conflicts with the railroad remain. He suggested the City Council inform the
state they do not want a second slip. When he was on the Council, if WSF wanted to enlarge a terminal,
they would look at alternate locations. WSF found an alternate location but now want to give it up because
Edmonds won't say no.
8. ACTION ITEM
2019 PROPERTY TAX ORDINANCES
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Finance Director Scott James recalled a presentation was made to Council last week regarding the EMS
and Regular Property Tax Levies. Council requested the ordinances for the EMS Levy and the Property
Tax Levy be drafted separately. He reviewed ordinance options:
• EMS Levy
1. 2019 EMS Property Tax Ordinance with 1% increase to levy an estimated $4,048,199
• Regular Property Tax Levy
o City Attorney drafted three options
1. 2019 Regular property tax levy with -1% decrease to levy an estimated $10,351,89
(decreases revenue by over $207,000)
2. 2019 Regular Property Tax with 0% increase to levy and estimated $10,455,577 (generates
$103,000 less than the recommended 1% property tax increase)
3. 2019 Regular Property Tax with 1% increase to levy and estimated $10,559,264
(Recommended)
Staff recommends the Council adopt the EMS levy.
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
APPROVE ORDINANCE 4133 PROVIDING FOR THE ANNUAL TAX LEVY BY INCREASING
THE EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE PROPERTY TAX LEVY BY THE CURRENT 101%
LEVY LIMIT, THEREBY LEVYING AN ESTIMATED EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
LEVY OF $4,048,199. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Staff recommends the Council adopt the Regular Property Tax with a I% increase.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS, TO ADOPT THE REGULAR PROPERTY TAX WITH A 0% INCREASE
Councilmember Johnson asked staff to describe banking and whether it protects a property owner from a
property tax increase. Mr. James explained a property tax increase that is not levied can be banked for future
Councils to levy. The City current has approximately $66,000 in banked capacity as a result of the Council
raising property taxes by the IPD in 2014. Councilmember Johnson relayed her understanding that banking
allows the City to have a 0% tax increase but gives the Council the authority to levy it in the future such as
in the event of a recession. Mr. James clarified the option in the motion would not raise the 2019 property
tax levy but includes an increase for new construction and banking the 1%.
Councilmember Johnson summarized the Council could adopt a 0% increase and bank the 1 % for the future.
Mr. James said the proposed ordinance includes banking. The Comptroller assured a 0% increase in the
property tax levy does not take away the Council's ability to utilize the banked capacity in the future.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said the intent of her motion for a 0% increase was status quo and not
banking the 1%. If the 1% is banked, citizens will still pay more and the funds are banked. Mr. James
explained the ordinance with a 0% increase includes banking the 1% for future Councils. Future Councils
are not obligated to levy it but provides the flexibility to use it in the future. Mr. Taraday clarified it is not
banking actual money, it is banking the legal authority to levy in a future year what the Council is not
levying this year. Even the 101% is not the true max because it does not include the banked capacity.
Banking in this context is not money collected in 2019 and placed in a bank, it is reserving the authority to
levy it in future years.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas inquired about the language in the ordinance regarding banking. Mr.
Taraday said Section 4 in all three ordinances includes the language regarding banking. Councilmember
Fraley-Monillas asked why that was included in the ordinances. Mr. Taraday said it was included based on,
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November 27, 2018
Page 6
1) in his opinion it was prudent to preserve that ability for future Councils should the money be needed,
and 2) if the Council disagrees with his opinion, the ordinance can be amended by removing Section 4.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said when she made the motion for Option 1, she did not understand that
it included banking. Mr. Taraday explained if Councilmember Fraley-Monillas wanted a 0% increase and
to not allow a future City Council to levy that 1% in the future, the way to accomplish that was to remove
Section 4 from the ordinance. Mr. Taraday did not recommend that but said it could be done.
Councilmember Teitzel asked if the Council decides not to increase the 2019 property tax levy rate, that
does not mean the City's property tax income in 2019 would be flat because as assessed values increase,
property taxes increase at a commensurate level. Mr. James said that was not true, recalling recalled a graph
he displayed last week that illustrates the inverse relationship; as property values increases, the property tax
rate decreases. If the Council chooses this option, the City can only increase what was raised last year,
$10,368,000 as well as the allowance for new construction. The extra taxes citizens are experience are not
a result of increases in assessed value. As a retiree, Councilmember Teitzel said he was sensitive to property
taxes. He pointed out the 101% option would be approximately a $0.60/month or $6/year increase in
property taxes. Mr. James said the cost of a I% increase to the average homeowner is $0.62/month.
While he appreciated the intent to not increase property taxes, Council President Nelson preferred to take
it a step further by reducing property taxes by I%. He will oppose the motion as he believes property owners
have been carrying this burden too long and need some relief.
Councilmember Mesaros inquired about the increase to the banked capacity if the Council adopted an
ordinance that included banking. Mr. James answered it would be the 1% or $103,000. Councilmember
Mesaros observed that amount would be added to the existing $66,000 and a future Council could utilize
that if they chose.
Councilmember Buckshnis expressed support for the status quo. She asked if there was a time limit for
using the banked capacity such as five years. Mr. James said there is no time limit. Mr. Taraday explained
the state allowed banking in part out of the recognition that cities cannot, without voter approval, increase
the property tax levy by more than I%/ year. In recognition of that limitation, the legislature provided this
vehicle so that when cities feel they don't need full 1% in a given year but may need it in a future year, the
city would have banked authority to increase property tax levy by more than I%.
Councilmember Buckshnis summarized a future Council could utilize the accumulated banked capacity.
For example, if the Council did not increase property taxes for five years and banked that capacity, in five
years the Council could increase property taxes 5%. Mr. Taraday provided a scenario, a significant
economic downturn in the next eight years where sales taxes revenue plummets to level such that police,
fire and other essential services cannot not be funded; one of the options that a future Council would have
would be to use the banked capacity to help backfill the loss of sales tax. Every year a Council does not
levy the maximum under the law, they can bank the delta.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said she and other Councilmembers have spoken with many citizens
including seniors and veterans who not able to stomach another tax increase. She realized for some people
$6/year was not a big deal, but for some people such as seniors on a fixed income and their Social Security
is increasing, it is significant. The City is spending millions in the proposed budget, and she did not feel the
loss of the property tax increase, approximately $100,000 would be missed. She supported having no tax
increase.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED TO AMEND THE MOTION TO REMOVE
SECTION 4 SO THIS YEAR'S 1% WOULD NOT BE BANKED. MOTION DIED FOR LACK OF A
SECOND.
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If the Council did not increase the property tax levy rate, Councilmember Teitzel encouraged
Councilmembers to be circumspect about approving budget amendments as not increasing the property tax
levy will increase the budget load without a commensurate increase in property tax revenue.
Mr. James reread the motion:
APPROVE ORDINANCE 4134 PROVIDING FOR THE ANNUAL TAX LEVY BY INCREASING
THE REGULAR PROPERTY TAX LEVY BY THE CURRENT 100% LEVY LIMIT, THEREBY
LEVYING AN ESTIMATED REGULAR PROPERTY TAX LEVY OF $10,455,577.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (4-3) COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, BUCKSHNIS,
TEITZEL AND TIBBOTT VOTING YES; AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON AND
COUNCILMEMBERS FRALEY-MONILLAS AND MESAROS VOTING NO.
Mr. Taraday clarified as he understood the motion, the Council voted to approve the version of the
ordinance that contains Section 4 regarding banking. Mr. James agreed.
9. PUBLIC HEARING
1. FINAL PUBLIC HEARING ON THE 2019 PROPOSED BUDGET
Finance Director Scott James reviewed six new amendments (in italics and shaded):
COUNCIL'S BUDGET CHANGES
Item
#
Budget
Book
Page #
Description
Cash
Increase
Decrease
Submitter &
Request #
GENERAL FUND 001
1
57
Reduce City's SnoCo Health Dist Contribution to $0.50/pp
$20,815
Fraley-
Monillas #1
2
57
Carryfoward Unallocated 2018 Council Contingency
93,740
Buckshnis #1
3
DP#60
Remove Tree Board Minute Taker
$1,500
Buckshnis #2
4
101
New DP — Add Tree Board Supplies for brochures
(1,000)
Buckshnis #3
5
DP#96
Remove ECA "Enhance our Arts & Culture" contribution
75,000
Buckshnis #4
6
DP#47
Remove federal lobbyist
72,000
Buckshnis #5
& Nelson #5
7
101
New DP — Add new position "City Arborist"
($147,000)
Buckshnis #6
8
51
New DP — Add increase for Court Securi
($33,000)
Buckshnis #7
9
DP#58
Remove Five Corners Consultant
$30,000
Buckshnis #8
& Nelson #3
10
DP#65
Remove Youth Services Coordinator
$53,717
Buckshnis #9
& Nelson #8
11
DP#77
Remove Car for SRO — negotiate
$65,000
Buckshnis #10
12
DP#49
Remove Increase for PIO/Communications Specialist
$18,000
Buckshnis #11
Nelson #6
13
33
New DP — Add Carryforward for Professional Services
($132,000)
Buckshnis #12
14
DP#3
Remove Contract Project Management Support
$45,000
Teitzel #1 &
Nelson # 1
15
DP#53
Remove National Citizen Survey
$22,000
Teitzel #2
16
DP#48
Remove Creative District Support
$10,000
Nelson #2
17
DP#50
Remove Diversity Commission Support Staff
$20,000
Nelson #7
18
DP#9
Remove Safe & Risk Disaster Coordinator
$85,567
Nelson #9
19
DP# 10
Remove Professional Services Consultant
$10,000
Nelson #10
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Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
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Page 9
STAFF'S RECOMMENDED PROPOSED BUDGET BOOK CHANGES
Item #
Budget
Book
Page #
20
DP#
Remove Electronic Parking Software
$49,900
Nelson #13
21
DP#
Reduce Downtown Parking Study
$35,000
Nelson #14
22
DP#
Reduce Capital Renewal Projects
$170,000
Nelson #17
23
DP#84
Remove State of the City Scribe
$800
Johnson #7
24
DP#84
Remove Pedestrian Task Force Education Program
$20,000
Tibbott #1
SnoCo 911 former SNOCOM Merger Savings
$169,180
Impacts to General Fund Ending Cash
$397,559
DP 95
Reduce Contribution to Sno Health District to $1/ca ita
$42,000
STREET FUND 111
25
DP #12
Remove Sidewalk Crew
$323,294
Nelson #4
Fund 017 Marsh Restoration and Preservation
Impacts to Fund 112 Ending Cash
$323,294
Add Donation Revenues
$6,800
STREET CONSTRUCTION FUND 112
26
DP#111
Reduce b $1M — transfer $1M to Marsh Restore
$0
Buckshnis #12
26
DP #97
Reduce Pavement Preservation Fund
$500,000
Nelson #16
Correct pavement preservation expense for General Fund
Impacts to Fund 112 Ending Cash
$500,000
REET 2 FUND 125
28
DP#119
Reduce Gatewa Sign Replacement
1 $25,000
TNelson #15
Impacts to Fund 125 Ending Cash
REET 1 FUND 126
29
DP #104
Relocate staff proposed location of Admiral Way
crosswalk
$70,000
Teitzel #4
Impacts to Fund 126 Ending Cash
$70,000
Unidentified Sources of Funds for New Projects
30
New DP
Assessible Pla round Updates
$200,000.
Nelson #18
31
New DP
Edmonds Drug Task Force (2) Police Officers
$300,000
Nelson #19
Impacts to Fund XXX Ending Cash
WATER FUND 421
32
DP#18
Remove Vacuum Machine
$70,000
Johnson #2
Impacts to Fund 421 Ending Cash
$70,000
STORM FUND 422
33
DP#23
Remove one-time ex enses from Decision Package
$21,000
Johnson #3
34
DP#28
Remove Dayton Street Pump Station
.$907,000
Johnson #4
Impacts to Fund 422 Ending Cash
$928,000
TECHNOLOGY RENTAL FUND 512
35
DP #88
Remove Tableau Software
$28,250
Nelson #11
36
DP#87
Remove Council Video Recording Device
$3Q,000
Johnson #8
Impacts to Fund 512 Ending Cash
$58,250
Total Councilmember Requested Changes
$1,872,103
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 9
STAFF'S RECOMMENDED PROPOSED BUDGET BOOK CHANGES
Item #
Budget
Book
Page #
Description
Cash
Increase
Decrease
GENERAL FUND
1
New Item
43
City Clerk Benefits Understated
(15,125
2
New Item
20
Culture & Recreation — Program Revenue
($45,000
3
New Item
57
SnoCo DEM Former ESCA)/SERB
$5,245
4
New Item
57
SnoCo 911 former SNOCOM Merger Savings
$169,180
5
New Item
DP 95
Reduce Contribution to Sno Health District to $1/ca ita
$42,000
Impacts to General Fund Ending Cash
145,810
Fund 017 Marsh Restoration and Preservation
6124
Add Donation Revenues
$6,800
Impacts to Fund 017 Ending Cash
$6,800
Fund 112 Street Construction
Correct pavement preservation expense for General Fund
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 9
7 DP 97
Transfer by increasing Fund 112 expense
$500,000
Impacts to Fund 112 Ending Cash
$500,000
EDMONDS HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE FUND 018
1 61 Move $250,000 Transitional Housing budget to REET Fund
125
$250,000
Impacts to Fund 018 Ending Cash
$250,000
REET 2 FUND 125
1
167 $250,000 for Transitional Housing
($250,000)
Impacts to Fund 125 Ending Cash
$250,000
Mayor Earling opened the public participation portion of the public hearing
Mike Shaw, Edmonds, commented theory is good thing; the theory of evolution explains how the natural
world works, the theory of climate change explains a lot about what is going on in the world although half
of Congress and the President don't agree. There is a theory the Edmonds Marsh could use some restoration
and that there could be a new salmon run through the Unocal property, soon to be owned by WSDOT.
Unless funded, that will remain a theory. He supported Council budget change 26, DP 111 and said future
residents of Edmonds, the birds, salmon and fisherman will thank the Council.
Mike Popke, Edmonds, Board President, Edmonds Public Facilities District (EPFD), and General Sales
Manager at Lynnwood Honda, said he and his wife and Lynnwood Honda have supported many things in
Edmonds for the past 25 years. Nearest to their heart is the Edmonds Center for the Arts (ECA) They have
seen many positive things happen in the community because the ECA exists. He provided several facts
including the ECA's economic impact on the community of approximately $7.5M/year, by May 2019 the
ECA will have had 360 ECA presentations, since 2006 has performed to over 840,000 people, and annual
donations of $1M/year from private sources help the ECA survive and thrive. Regarding recent concerns
by members of the City Council about the EPFD's financial oversight and reference to audit management
letters, he said for the past ten years the EPFD has received one or more management letters; in eight of the
last ten years, the City has also received one or more management letters from the State Auditor.
Management letters are routine and call attention to items that the staff and governing body should be aware
of and take corrective action to resolve. In all cases, the EPFD has taken corrective actions necessary to
resolve any issues raised, just as the City and all government agencies across the state have done. He was
proud of the ECA staff, confident in the leadership and oversight of the district and its operations. He asked
the City Council to join many sponsors, audience members, individuals, businesses, volunteers and donors
and peer cities across Washington State who all support their performing art centers with annual operating
grants, by supporting the ECA.
Nora Carlson, Edmonds, said she loves living in Edmonds. She and her partner returned three years ago
after having lived in Edmonds in the 80s and 90s and became involved in the community. One of the reasons
they decided to move to Edmonds is the strong arts presence. They are active volunteers in several arts
organizations in Edmonds; one of the arts organizations they strongly support is the ECA where they
volunteer. They are 2 in a cadre of 175 people who volunteer at ECA; the value of this support equates to
about $200,000. She asked for a show of hands from the audience regarding people who have attended
performances at ECA, have volunteered or supported ECA in some way; several people raised their hands
and she thanked them for their support. This Giving Tuesday is an opportune time for the City Council to
provide $75,000 to continue and expand the community and education outreach programs currently
available at ECA. The City's generous funding will make a difference in the programs offered for the benefit
of many including diversity of ages, ethnicity, abilities and both individuals and families who otherwise
could not afford to participate in the arts. ECA offers unique programs on site, in schools and community
venues that includes educational matinees for school and homeschool groups; Saturday matinees; Arts for
Everyone discount tickets for low income students, families and adults; KidStock! free family arts
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 10
celebration; artist residencies and interactive outreach; summer art enrichment camps; and the dementia
inclusive series. She provided a quote, "Art has the power to transform, illuminate, inspire and motivate."
Karyn Roseburg, Edmonds, a second-grade teacher at Westgate Elementary, said every year she seeks
out meaningful field trips for her students. Destinations in Seattle are wonderful but far away and often
expensive for students. They have been attending plays at ECA for many years. In the past she took students
to the Story Box presentations at the ECA; the presentations were okay but did not provide much diversity
from year to year and she planned field trips elsewhere. About five years ago, she returned to the ECA for
their educational matinees which now offer diverse performances and programs throughout the year. In
addition, the ECA offers Arts for Everyone grants. A typical theater ticket for a matinee at ECA is $8; for
many students that cost is a financial hardship. Arts for Everyone grants uses the school's free and reduced
lunch percentage to offer $2 discount tickets for students and suddenly attending the local theater is more
affordable and equitable for all students. Four years ago she took her students to see the play, "Celestial
Beings," a performance about a young girl with autism and how she came to be accepted by other children.
When she returned to her classroom, her second graders continued to talk about the play and they ended up
writing sequels to the performance that parents and Gillian Jones, ECA, were invited to watch. She loved
that a one-hour performance turned into a weeklong class project with a culminating performance for
parents. Her daughter, now a fifth grader, was in that group of students and she still brings up "Celestial
Beings" in conversation, illustrating the impact the ECA has on local students. Last year the ECA hosted
Tibetan Monks for a five-day residency. Westgate Elementary was invited to attend an educational matinee
to see the monks perform. One of her students was Tibetan and was happy to attend a field trip based on
his culture and his father attended as a parent chaperone. Her class found the monks' performance amazing
and she attended an evening performance with her family and the Saturday ceremony. A few weeks ago
she participated in a free teacher workshop sponsored by the ECA where she learned to make puppets for
her classroom and tools for integrating art and STEM in her classroom. The ECA has a huge impact on
local students, community and teachers. She urged the City Council to support ECA with a $75,000 grant
in the 2019 budget.
Donnie Griffin, Edmonds, Vice Chair, Edmonds Diversity Commission, asked for the Council's support
to increase the Diversity Commission's staff support from 10 hours/month to 40 hours/month. He described
critical projects they are planning: a downtown business person relayed a customer of color said she no
longer wanted to come to Edmonds because she did not feel welcome in some of the stores and felt she was
being stared at. The business owner returned to her business and talked to an employee of color who
validated the customer's concern and said she too didn't like spending much time in downtown Edmonds.
One of the projects the Edmonds Diversity Commission would like to undertake is a grand alliance with
the Communities of Color Coalition of Snohomish County. The grand alliance is designed to engage the
business community and leaders in opportunities to improve and enhance the diverse feel of the downtown
core. Another project the commission hopes to take on is making inroads into connecting with communities
on the Highway 99 corridor in an effort to create alliances with all of Edmonds. A third project is connecting
with a community of color that it has been difficult to connect with, primary the Asian community, and
determine how to make that growing community part of Edmonds.
Gillian Jones, Director of Programming, ECA, read a letter from Phyllis Beacher and her 84 -year old
mother, Icho Hutton who participate in the ECA programs for people with memory loss and their caregivers
and implore the City Council to support ECA through the $75,000 grant in the 2019 budget. Her mother
was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease in 2009 and has been living with her for the past 4'/z years and
she is her full-time caregiver. They discovered the ECA dementia inclusive series on their website and have
attended nearly every function offered over the past several years. She shared how the offered programs
have benefited her and her mother. The programs give her mother new experiences, activities and something
to look forward to as well as a sense of belonging in a community. Most often she has forgotten the specific
activity or event they participated in by the time they reach the car, but leaves with a peacefulness and calm
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 11
after experiencing such pleasant activities. The programs offer Ms. Beacher an opportunity to meet and
socialize with others in a similar situation. She has made several good friends that provide emotional
support. Being the caretaker and also the daughter can be difficult but the community support and sponsored
activities at ECA help make like a little easier for them.
Rich Kuehn, Edmonds, wife Julie and 31/2 year old son Jacob, expressed support for the amendment to
add funding for ADA accessible parks and to bring awareness regarding the need for better accessible and
inclusiveness. He distributed information regarding accessibility versus inclusiveness and how they differ
for different disabilities. His son has cerebral palsy and cannot walk on his own. The current definition of
accessibility for ADA parks includes wood chips even though some of the equipment is ADA accessible.
Jacob cannot reach that equipment. They live in Seaview and learned Seaview Park is scheduled for a
playground upgrade next year. They have spend countless hours over the past nine years with their three
children at Edmonds parks but not as much recently because Jacob cannot easily reach the equipment, he
no longer fits the ADA accessible swings and its difficult for him and his wife to carry Jacob to the
equipment. He commented on the importance of making parks more inclusive versus ADA accessible. He
was speaking for his family and other family who were unable to attend tonight's meeting. He urged the
Council to review the information they submitted and reach out to him or his wife with any questions.
Joe Scordino, Edmonds, expressed appreciation for the Council and the City's openness in the budget
process so citizens have a good understanding of the budget, recalling when he worked for the federal
government, the goal to hide information. He appreciated the $2500 in the budget for Students Saving
Salmon. There are over 60 students from Edmonds-Woodway and Meadowdale High Schools in the field
learning about science and having an opportunity to look into streams and see salmon and crawdads. He
would like to see the salmon return to all the creeks in Edmonds. He supported a new item in the budget,
funding for the Edmonds Marsh restoration project, and commented on the importance of an open channel
into Edmonds Marsh that would allow salmon to return. He was hopeful the design would provide a parklike
atmosphere so people can see the fish in the creek. He urged the Council to include the funding in the 2019
budget to provide matching funds for grants.
Carl Zapora, Edmonds, former United Way CEO of Snohomish County and Verdant Health Commission
and Public Hospital District, said what he and his wife like most about the Edmonds community is
everything they could want is available including a great hospital, community college, public school district,
fabulous city and great city government, and many good organizations including the Senior Center, Boys
& Girls Club, etc. At the top of that list of assets is a very healthy arts community and at the very top is the
ECA. He is proud that he and wife volunteer, donate and are season subscribers. When they bring visitors
to the community, they love everything Edmonds, but absolutely adore the ECA. The ECA is a crown jewel
and deserves the community's support. He supported the $75,000 grant in the City's budget, commenting
it was important for the City to be on record supporting the ECA. Healthy communities don't happen by
accident; they need to be nurtured and constantly taken care of. He recalled Mayor Earling saying Edmonds
isn't Deadmonds anymore, noting it took years to build this vibrant community, but it would not take much
to start slide backwards. The ECA and EPFD are doing a fabulous job; the CEO, Joe McIalwain, is
recognized through Snohomish County as one of the finest non-profit CEOs and he has also been Chair of
the Leadership Snohomish County Leadership Board, helping teach other non-profit leaders in Snohomish
County what it means to be a good, strong non-profit organization. He encouraged the Council to consider
the $75,000, not just for the money but the importance of the City being on record that they recognize ECA,
support it and want to be part of its future.
Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, commented the budget is large and takes a lot of reading so he selected two
things. First, he recommended utility taxes be, reduced. He recalled when a change was made in the way
utility projects were funded, more money would be generated, more people hired, and more projects
accomplished. Unfortunately, many residents have a hard time paying the utility taxes and that often affects
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 12
whether they can afford to live in Edmonds. He was concerned that at the end of the year, 50% of the money
in the fund has not been spent. Second, he encouraged the City to increase road maintenance, noting there
was nothing in the budget about chip sealing.
Hearing no further public comment, Mayor Earling closed the public participation portion of the public
hearing.
Mayor Earling declared a brief recess.
Mayor Earling Council described the process for reviewing and voting on Council Budget Changes; the
submitter/requester will describe the amendment, staff will provide a response and Council will take action.
In response to an earlier Council request, he distributed a list of Council priorities for the 2019 budget.
1. Reduce City's SnoCo Health District Contribution to $0.50/pp - $20.815
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas explained when the budget process began, she submitted a proposal for
the City to contribute $2/capita to SnoCo Health District. Since then, she has been told SnoCo Health
District will receive federal funds via the State Health Department based on population. As Snohomish
County was the third largest county in the state, she expected they will receive a considerable amount, but
it will not be available for 4-6 months. She proposed reducing the contribution to $0.50/capita and if the
funds have not been distributed by May, she will ask for an additional $0.50/capita via a budget amendment.
As chair of the SnoCo Health District, she knew they need money but should receive the federal funds by
May. She was aware Jeff Ketchel, Administrator of the Health District, had spoken to Mayor Earling and
was interested in $1/capita.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS, TO REDUCE THE CITY'S SNOCO HEALTH DISTRICT CONTRIBUTION TO
$0.50/PP.
Councilmember Teitzel said the October 13, 2018 memo from Mr. Ketchel asks for $2/capita for 2019. He
asked why Mr. Ketchel was asking for $2/capita but Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asking $0.50/capita.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said the Health District was not aware until recently the amount they could
expect to receive. The District received approximately $600,000 last year but expect to receive considerably
more this year.
Mayor Earling said in conversation with Mr. Ketchel, his only concern was whether the legislature will act
on the legislation. Mr. Ketchel was satisfied with the proposed funding as long as there was flexibility for
additional funds if the legislation was unsuccessful.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. Carryforward Unallocated 2018 Council Contingency — ($93,740
Mr. James explained last year Mayor Earling included $250,000 in the budget for the Council to allocate.
The Council did not allocated all those funds, so it was allowed to lapse. This amendment would add the
remaining funds to the Council Contingency.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented basically this is Council money; she wanted to include the
unallocated amount in the Council Contingency.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO CARRY FORWARD UNALLOCATED 2018 COUNCIL CONTINGENCY
($93,740). MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 13
3. Remove Tree Board Minute Taker - $1.500
Councilmember Buckshnis relayed the Tree Board voted not to have a minute taker.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
REMOVE THE TREE BOARD MINUTE TAKER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
4. New DP —Add Tree Board Supplies for brochures —($1000)
__
Councilmember Buckshnis relayed this would provide funds for two Tree Board brochures.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO ADD TREE BOARD SUPPLIES FOR BROCHURES. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
5. Remove ECA "Enhance our Arts & Culture" contribution - $75,000
Councilmember Buckshnis said the City is on record supporting the ECA/EPFD as evidenced by the $1.3M
the City has loaned to the EPFD over the past 8 years and a recent loan that was collateralized by the City's
$3M CD. Due to refinancing the bond, the EPFD will not make a payment, which will free up $60,000. In
the 2018 management letter, the auditor stated the biggest policy issue is whether this will ever operate as
a sustainable organization. In view of the financial trends, deteriorating net worth, $1.2M payroll and $1.3M
loan, she preferred to analyze the amount the EPFD needs. The new Contingent Loan Agreement has the
EPFD Board reporting to the Finance Committee which will allow a dialogue about what is needed.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO REMOVE ECA "ENHANCE OUR ARTS & CULTURE" CONTRIBUTION.
Councilmember Mesaros said he will vote against the motion as it behooves the City to support the ECA
which brings tremendous economic strength to the City. Mayor Earling has often said Edmonds is no longer
Deadmonds, and one of key factors over the ten years is the ECA. In response to Councilmember
Buckshnis' comments about the EPFD refinancing their debt, that is capital debt. Not making that payment
benefits their capital structure but not operating as the $60,000 cannot be used for operations. Although
there is a financial benefit, the benefit will be to the City because the savings will enable the EPFD to begin
repaying their loan with the City. He supports the $75,000 contribution and will not support this budget
amendment.
Councilmember Teitzel was conflicted about this amendment because he is a strong supporter of the ECA
as a patron and donor. He recognized it is a jewel that brings culture and arts to the community. Having
said that, as Councilmember Buckshnis mentioned, the City invested $2.7M in a CD to collateralize a loan
which allowed the EPFD to refund their bond at a lower interest rate, but that tied up a substantial amount
of taxpayer resources. Had the City not engaged in that transaction and instead invested the funds, about a
point in interest could have been gained. The transaction is an opportunity cost to the City because the
Council supports and believes in the ECA/EPFD. Because the City has invested substantially in their
operation, he will support the motion.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she supports the ECA which why she prefers to determine what they need
in the future. As a former accountant, she proposed removing the contribution and determining what the
EPFD needs rather than picking a number of out the air.
To clarify Councilmember Teitzel's comments, Councilmember Mesaros explained refinancing the bonds
benefits the EPFD but it does not benefit the ECA; the purpose of the grant is to benefit the ECA.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 14
Council President Nelson said he strongly supports the $75,000 contribution to the ECA. With regard to
what the City has already done, the City extended them a loan which they will pay back. This is a grant to
the ECA. He opposed the motion.
Councilmember Tibbott said he will oppose the motion because he sees supporting the operation versus the
collateralized loan as separate issues. Not only do other cities support their performing arts centers,
Edmonds could have been supporting the ECA in the past and probably should have been. The ECA does
a great job and he appreciates what the Council has done in the past to support them.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented issues with ECA have been going on since she started on the
Council in January 2010. With that said, she was interested in what occurs in the coming year at the Finance
Committee and wanted to see actual movement from the City and the EPFD/ECA regarding issues that
continue to plague both sides. She was unsure removing the contribution would be the best step for the City
or the ECA. She was seriously considering a one-time contribution to see what happens in the coming year.
If the situation doesn't improve and the City Council does not see movement and direction to make it a
more financially successful program, she will advocate against it in the future.
Mayor Earling said this was intended as a one-time contribution. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said she
has have heard other Councilmembers talk about this as an annual contribution similar to other cities.
Councilmember Johnson said this seems like hasty decision. She supports the ECA, attends events there
and supports the arts in Edmonds. The ECA is able to get $1 M/year in contributions from community,
which leads her to question how expertly they are controlling their budget. She preferred not to make a
contribution this year, have the Finance Committee and the ECA work together as partners and reconsider
the contribution next year. She will support the motion to remove the contribution from the budget.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION TIED (3-3-1), COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, BUCKSHNIS
AND TEITZEL VOTING YES; COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON AND COUNCILMEMBERS
MESAROS AND TIBBOTT VOTING NO; AND COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS
ABSTAINING.
Mayor Earling inquired whether he could vote to break the tie. City Attorney Jeff Taraday said this is a
preliminary vote on a budget that effectively will become an amendment to the budget ordinance. The
Mayor cannot vote on an ordinance, and therefore cannot vote to break the tie. Mayor Earling advised the
motion is defeated due to a tie vote.
Mr. Taraday explained this exercise is the Council's opportunity to make amendments to Mayor Earling
proposed budget. Anything that is in the budget stays in the budget unless the Council amends it otherwise.
6. Remove Federal Lobbyist — $72,00.0
Council President Nelson said due to his concern with the overall rate of hiring, he called for hiring freeze
and most of his budget amendments reflect that including removing the federal lobbyist.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO REMOVE FEDERAL LOBBYIST FUNDING FOR 2019.
Councilmember Teitzel did not support removing the federal lobbyist because his efforts are related
securing long-term, scarce federal dollars for major projects including the Waterfront Connector, Highway
99 and potentially the Edmonds Marsh. He was in favor of the City having support at that level and
anticipated it would bear fruit over time.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 15
Councilmember Tibbott agreed with Councilmember Teitzel's comments. He reflected on meeting
Congressman Larsen this summer at Meadowdale Beach along with the Snohomish County Council and
interested citizens where Congressman Larsen described a program he has proposed in the House to provide
funds for shoreline restoration. He emailed this week Congressman Larsen's office asking about the status
of that program and how it might affect Edmonds but has not had a response. It was his understanding that
program would be useful for restoring Meadowdale Beach as well as the Edmonds Marsh. For that reason,
he supported a federal lobbyist to inform the City what is available as well as building relationships to help
the City access those funds. He supported retaining funding in the budget for the federal lobbyist.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said although most discussions about the federal lobbyist include getting
funding for Highway 99, no funding has been obtained for Highway during the time the City has had a
federal lobbyist. She relayed a person was in critical care at Harborview after being hit crossing Highway
99 but there are no funds for improvements. She was on the hill in Washington D.C. recently speaking with
the legislative branch; most had not heard about Highway 99 from the federal lobbyist, only from their
peers. She did not think that the funding for the federal lobbyist had been put to good use for the past 4-5
years and will support the amendment to remove funding for the federal lobbyist.
Community Service/Economic Development Director Patrick Doherty said during the past three years the
City has had the lobbyist, there have been challenges including partisan politics in Washington D.C. The
takeover of the House by democrats expected in January will put the City in a better position over the next
two years to engage more successfully at the federal level. Antidotes shared with Mayor Earling from the
Washington, D.C. delegation include that emails are being responded to, and the $1.213 for the Sound
Transit extension to Lynnwood that had been frozen for over a year was released after the democratic House
majority was declared. The groundwork laid in recent years in putting projects in front of people, helping
them understand the City's priorities, and getting Edmonds on the map will take hold with a more balanced
federal regime in Washington, D.C.
With regard to Highway 99, Mr. Dougherty explained staff has been working with the $1M forwarded from
the $IOM commitment by the state to develop a transportation improvement plan with identified projects.
The lobbyist will be in a position in 2019 and beyond to make requests for Highway 99, Edmonds Marsh
and the Waterfront Connector. This is the most opportune time to have a presence in Washington, D.C.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas reminded the current administration has been in office less than two years
and the City has had a federal lobbyist for three years. Senator Patty Murry freed up the funds for Sound
Transit 3 after working on it for many months and it just happened be released after the election. She did
not want people to think that just because the democrats have taken control of the House that life will be
easy.
Councilmember Johnson said one of the problems with the federal lobbyist is he has not provided any direct
communication to the City Council. The Council met him once but have seen no products, action or
movement. While he may be advising staff and the Mayor, she found it difficult as a legislative body to
continuously pay for something when there is no evidence of its success. She was supportive of the motion
to remove funding for the federal lobbyist.
Mayor Earling said if the City is ever going to support a program, now is time to do it at the federal level.
Money is being freed up, communications are improving, and the City has been successful in obtaining
$6M from the state for the Waterfront Connector. The Port recently approved $1.5M as a funding partner
for the Waterfront Connector. It is a critical time to have federal lobbyist; if the City wants to move money,
there needs to be someone in Washington, DC. He urged the Council not to remove funds for the federal
lobbyist.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 16
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (4-3), COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON AND
COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, FRALEY-MONILLAS AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING YES; AND
COUNCILMEMBERS MESAROS, TEITZEL AND TIBBOTT VOTING NO.
Councilmember Buckshnis remarked the $72,000 for the lobbyist is within Mayor Earling's $100,000
contract authority.
7. New DP -- Add new position_"City Arborist" x$147,000)
Councilmember Buckshnis recalled she requested this last year and Parks & Recreation and Planning staff
also want an arborist. There are many instances where the City needs an arborist and instead contracts for
those services. In addition, the Urban Forest Management Plan needs someone to direct it.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO ADD A NEW POSITION "CITY ARBORIST."
Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite referred to the response she, Development Services Director Shane
Hope and Public Works Director Phil Williams provided in the Council packet. In completing the materials
for Tree City USA, staff determined the City spent a total of $177,000 on tree activities in the three
departments. The City has a city arborist, Debra Dill, in the Parks Department; the City supported her
education with time and money, her certification and license costs, Ms. Dill does tree evaluations for Parks
and Public Works as needed. She is also in charge of the horticulture program and flower program; some
of her time would need to be freed up if the intent was to have her drive the goals of the UFMP. She, Ms.
Hope and Mr. Williams developed options for Council consideration; they recommend Option A which
would utilize Ms. Dill as the arborist, have her help with the street tree plan update and code updates,
backfill her position and provide funds for consultants. If that is determined not to be a workable plan during
2019, a full-time arborist could be considered in 2020.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
AMEND THE MOTION TO OPTION A.
Councilmember Johnson asked whether what percentage of Ms. Dill's time would be as an arborist. Ms.
Hite anticipated 25% arborist and 75% flower program. Ms. Dill is compensated as a horticulturist, not an
arborist. She recommended giving Ms. Dill a step increase to act as the City's arborist and backfill for on -
the -ground work of the horticulturist. Ms. Dill would still be in charge of planning and designing the flower
program and educating staff but planting could be backfilled with seasonal employees.
Councilmember Johnson said the request is a full-time arborist and Option A is 25%; she was dissatisfied
with that small percentage. Ms. Hite referred to an email from Ms. Hope that laid out three options that Ms.
Hope, Mr. Williams and she had developed; Option A is the leanest option which does not include hiring a
full-time arborist but using the current arborist on staff, reallocating a bit of her time to drive the goals of
the UFMP and backfilling for the flower program. Staff recommends starting slow to see what can be
accomplished with the lean option and hire a full-time arborist next year if necessary.
Councilmember Johnson referred to Ms. Hite's suggest to upgrade Ms. Dill's position to an arborist. Ms.
Hite answered it is a union issue, she recommends adding some incentive pay for Ms. Dill to continue as
an arborist and she should be paid more than a horticulturist.
Councilmember Johnson questioned whether 25% of her time would be enough. Councilmember Buckshnis
answered it would be a good start. She recognized Ms. Dill was an arborist and does a splendid job. She
felt this was a good option rather than hiring a full-time arborist and hoped it could be increased to 50% or
more in the future.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 17
AMENDMENT CARRIED (6-1), COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON VOTING NO.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED (6-1), COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON VOTING NO.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas referred to Councilmember Buckshnis' comment regarding the federal
lobbyist and that Mayor Earling had contract authority under $100,000. She asked if that still applied when
the Council voted against doing something. Mr. Taraday said the City Council adopts the budget at the fund
level. With respect to the General Fund, the Council is appropriating an amount of money to be spent. There
are some exceptions such as salaries which have to track what is approved in the budget; however, with
regard to the Mayors' contracting authority, he has that authority not withstanding a specific vote that would
have potentially added more money into the General Fund for that purpose. Councilmember Fraley-
Monillas summarized Mayor Earling would have to find the $72,000.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked if Mr. Taraday was confident about that; it was irrelevant if it was
under $100,000. Mr. Taraday answered yes, because the Council adopts the budget at the fund level. The
Council does not have to adopt the budget at the fund level although that has been done during the time he
has been the City Attorney. To do it differently would require budget amendments on a monthly basis.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented that could be said for anything on this list if it was under
$100,000 and he could find the money to do it. Mr. Taraday said to the extend the Council's budget changes
add or subtract money from the General Fund and do not involve hiring new employees, the Mayor's
contracting authority is what it is within the General Fund. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas summarized it
didn't matter how the Council votes. Mr. Taraday agreed because of the way the Council adopts the budget.
If the Council is ever dissatisfied with the way the Mayor uses his contracting authority, the Council could
reign it in in a number of ways including, 1) taking that authority away, or 2) adopting the budget in a
different way. Because of that the Mayor has generally exercised restraint in doing as the Council directs.
8. New DP —Add increase for Court Security— ($33,000)
Councilmember Buckshnis recalled from Judge Coburn's presentation that additional court security was
needed.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
ADD INCREASE FOR COURT SECURITY.
Council President Nelson said although he advocates a hiring freeze, his exception is public safety, so he
will support an increase for court security.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
9. Remove Five Corners Consultant 430,000
Councilmember Buckshnis relayed the Council hoped to form a Citizen Housing Commission next year
and she preferred to get a handle on housing before moving forward with Five Corners. Ms. Hope advised
this proposal is based on Council direction to move forward at a moderate pace with planning for Five
Corners and follow up on the 2010 work that was halted while the roundabout was constructed. She
anticipated this effort would begin in late 2019.
Councilmember Johnson recalled the City used the UW Green Futures Lab to do the initial work and the
next step was developing form -based code for implementation which she had the impression was a staff -
heavy effort. She asked if the consultant would be used for form -based code. Ms. Hope answered primarily
form -based code but working in conjunction with staff. Councilmember Johnson said she has been patiently
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 18
waiting since 2010 and was concerned that opportunities for redevelopment have been lost during that time.
For example, the animal hospital locked up that quadrant. She expressed support for this item.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON,
TO REMOVE THE FIVE CORNERS CONSULTANT.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented this is a small amount in the grand scheme. She agreed with
Councilmember Buckshnis that there are a lot of justifiable issues in the community regarding housing and
she was not comfortable moving forward with a Five Corner's consultant until those issues are addressed.
She supported removing the funding from the budget.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (5-2), COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON AND
COUNCILMEMBERS FRALEY-MONILLAS, BUCKSHNIS, TEITZEL AND TIBBOTT VOTING
YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON AND MESAROS VOTING NO.
10. Remove Youth Services Coordinator - $53,717
Council President Nelson said he was supportive of the Council creating the commission but does not
support hiring a coordinator.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO REMOVE YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATOR FOR 2019.
Councilmember Buckshnis preferred to hire a consultant first like was done with the Tree Board and the
Diversity Commission to determine the level of staffing that is needed.
Councilmember Johnson said creative solutions could be developed for supporting the Youth Services
Commission and suggested using the Students Saving Salmon model where technical people work with the
School District to achieve common goals. She recalled when the students made a presentation to the
Council, they were concerned about bullying, sexual discrimination and other issues at the school. It seemed
the SRO working with high school students would be an ideal community liaison. She did not support hiring
a person but did support assisting the commission.
Ms. Hite referred to her response in the Council packet, recalling when the Council approved the Youth
Commission, she informed Council that staff did not have the capacity to assist this commission and she
was assured resources would be provided. After researching youth commissions in Redmond, Issaquah,
Sammamish, Seattle, and Bothell, they all have a full-time position or a 1.5 FTE. The proposed .5 FTE was
intended to start slow and small. In her experience, the youth, although they are very independent and think
they can do everything and are very ambitious, need more guidance than an adult commission. The support
for the commission is to help them understand their role, the government process, and the parameters for
advising the Council. She assured the commission will be ambitious and want to do programs. She
recommended funding a .5 FTE.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS,
TO AMEND THE MOTION TO A $30,000 BUDGET FOR A CONSULTANT.
Councilmember Mesaros agreed with Ms. Hite that some structure and guidance is needed for the
commission. He also agreed with Councilmember Buckshnis that a .5 FTE was not needed immediately.
He preferred to hire a consultant to establish the framework for what needs to be accomplished and turn
that into a .5 FTE in the future if necessary.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 19
UPON ROLL CALL, AMENDMENT CARRIED (4-3), COUNCILMEMBERS BUCKSHNIS,
MESAROS, TEITZEL AND TIBBOTT VOTING YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON
AND FRALEY-MONILLAS AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON VOTING NO.
UPON ROLL CALL, MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED (4-3), COUNCILMEMBERS
BUCKSHNIS, MESAROS, TEITZEL AND TIBBOTT VOTING YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS
JOHNSON AND FRALEY-MONILLAS AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON VOTING NO.
11. Remove Car for SRO — negotiate - $65,000
Councilmember Buckshnis explained this is the SRO for Scriber High School which is funded 50/50 with
the school district. She preferred to negotiate the cost of the car because all the other costs were negotiated.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON,
TO REMOVE CAR FOR SRO AND NEGOTIATE WITH EDMONDS SCHOOL DISTRICT.
Chief Compaan explained the Edmonds School District proposed and the City approved immolating the
existing ILA at with the District at Edmonds-Woodway High School to place an SRO at Scriber High
School which includes a vehicle. The vehicle is already part of the ILA with Edmonds-Woodway High
School and this is proposed to be the same.
For Councilmember Teitzel, Chief Compaan explained the vehicle is important for two reasons, 1) it is a
visual deterrent at the campus, and 2) it is an important, strategic and tactical tool for the officer in case it
is needed in an emergency situation. He would not want an SRO at a school without a car. Councilmember
Teitzel asked if the SRO needed a car equivalent to an Edmonds Police officer's car. Chief Compaan
answered yes.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked if the $65,000 cost was split with the Edmonds School District.
Chief Compaan advised a capital expenditure to purchase the vehicle is proposed from existing B funds;
the City would own the vehicle. Edmonds School District has agreed to defray operation and maintenance
costs. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said it seemed like a lot of money for a vehicle for an SRO. Chief
Compaan said that's what a police vehicle costs.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said she was not saying the SRO might not need a vehicle at some point,
but 95% of the time he/she would not. Chief Compaan reiterated the vehicle is a deterrent factor.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked if there were any other vehicles that hadn't been auctioned off that
the SRO could use. Chief Compaan said there was not. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas did not support
spending $65,000 on a vehicle plus the cost of the officer.
Councilmember Mesaros relayed the current arrangement for Edmonds-Woodway High School is the City
supplies the vehicle and that has always been done for the SRO at Edmonds-Woodway High School. Now
that an SRO would be located at another high school within the City limits, it seems natural that a vehicle
would be provided. Chief Compaan agreed.
Councilmember Tibbott asked about the Scriber High School campus, the nature of the work the SRO will
do and why a vehicle would be helpful. He understood the student body at Scriber was smaller than the
other high schools in the District. Chief Compaan agreed it was a smaller student body, but the campus was
about the same size as Edmonds-Woodway High School and it was just as prone to potential issues as any
other school campus in this day and age and he felt it needed to be handled in same manner. Councilmember
Tibbott asked if other students shared the campus along with Scriber. Chief Compaan answered there were
several other learning communities on the campus. Councilmember Tibbott concluded the SRO and the
vehicle would support Scriber and the other communities on the campus.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 20
Councilmember Johnson said she had a difficult time with the purchase of a new vehicle. She understood
the City has an ILA with Edmonds School District for Edmonds-Woodway High School for an SRO and
asked if there was an SRO at the campus now. Chief Compaan answered yes. Councilmember Johnson
asked if a new vehicle was purchased for the Edmonds-Woodway High School SRO. Chief Compaan
explained an existing vehicle was used but there are none that can be dedicated to the SRO at this time
without replacing another vehicle in the fleet. Councilmember Johnson asked if the vehicle would be rotated
through the department so it gets used. Chief Compaan said it would.
With regard to the car being an important deterrent, Councilmember Johnson recalled years ago the DARE
program used confiscated vehicles. She asked if there were any confiscated vehicle available through the
South Snohomish County Drug Task Force that could be used for this purpose. Chief Compaan answered
that task force does not exist anymore; the City joined the Snohomish County Task Force and the City does
not have direct access to vehicles.
Councilmember Johnson relayed her understanding Scriber High School was a magnet school for the entire
Edmonds School District and asked why Edmonds was footing the bill. Chief Compaan answered it was
located in Edmonds. Councilmember Johnson supported the SRO, but had a hard time funding a vehicle.
She asked how often an officer needed to use a vehicle. Chief Compaan answered it would be used on a
daily basis when the officer is at the school to drive to and from the school, meet with parents, pick up a
truant student or respond to criminal activity. He assured the vehicle would be used on a daily basis.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas clarified when the SRO program began at Edmonds-Woodway High
School, the Police Department had a vehicle so a vehicle was not purchased. Chief Compaan agreed.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said she has five years of experience with her son at the campus which
houses the Homeschool Network, the Boys Program, and the Pre -Work Adjustment Program that serves
students with disabilities. She inquired about a former Edmonds Police officer provided security at the
campus for the past ten years. Chief Compaan said he had retired; the City had not been involved in that
arrangement. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas recalled the security officer did not carry a gun or have a
vehicle, but assisted with the programs on the campus. She said Scriber High School serves Lynnwood,
Mountlake Terrace, Edmonds and some Snohomish County students.
In the event of an emergency such as a violent confrontation or the officer had to pursue someone, Council
President Nelson asked how that would happen if the SRO did not have a vehicle. Chief Compaan answered
it would not happen; the officer would have to rely on other patrol units. From a strategical and tactical
standpoint, he recommended the officer have the tools of the trade which include a vehicle.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON AND FRALEY-
MONILLAS VOTING YES; AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON AND COUNCILMEMBERS
BUCKSHNIS, MESAROS, TEITZEL, AND TIBBOTT VOTING NO.
12. Remove Increase for PIO/Communications Specialist - $18,000
Economic Development/Community Services Director Patrick Doherty said that position is very valuable
and is becoming more so every year. The position performs a wide range of duties that include public
relations, review and creation of media releases, covering local public events, liaising with organizations
that involve the public, pitching stories to regional media, strategizing with staff on public engagement, etc.
Social media is a minor component of her overall duties. Over the past 4 years, the PIO has secured 25
incidents of live TV coverage for events, venues, restaurants, business openings, people and happenings in
Edmonds, that on its own has a value of hundreds of thousands of dollars. The request for the additional
$18,000 would allow her to work 10-15 hours/week instead of 5-10 hours/week. The cost of the contract is
commensurate with a mid-level program manager.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 21
Councilmember Buckshnis expressed concern the consultant was paid $250/hour which is more than what
the City pays Mr. Taraday, 2500/month for 10 hours. Mr. Dougherty explained the contract was currently
5-10 hours/week and would be increased to 10-15 hours/week which is about $61/hour which with no
benefits is commensurate with a program manager.
For Councilmember Fraley-Monillas, Mr. Doherty said the current salary is $36,500/year for about 5-10
hours/week. The proposal is for the same hourly rate of about $58 plus an inflationary increase to $61. The
consultant is very dedicated and puts in whatever hours it takes; in a week with very little going on, her
hours may be as low as 5, for weeks with a lot going on, she may work 15 or more but the average is 5-10.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked how the PIO's hours are tracked. Mr. Doherty said the contract is
an average of 5-10 hours week and may be more or less in any given week. She itemizes the work she does
during the week but does not fill out a timesheet; it is a contract and retainer for services that average 5-10
hours/week; the proposal is to increase the contract by $18,000.
Council President Nelson said to be consistent, he supports the current work the PIO/Communication
Specialist is doing but does not support increasing her workload for hiring freeze purposes.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS,
TO REMOVE INCREASE FOR PIO/COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST.
Councilmember Mesaros did not support removing the funding because he recognized the need to improve
communication. It is important to have a professional in the community industry to lead, guide, and
strategize and communication is an important element of government. This is a minor amount in the budget.
He recalled Mr. Scordino complimented the Council on their openness, yet the Council is often criticized
for not being open.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (4-3), COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON AND
COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, FRALEY-MONILLAS AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING YES; AND
COUNCILMEMBERS MESAROS, TEITZEL, AND TIBBOTT VOTING NO.
13. New DP — Add Ca forward for Professional Services — 132 000
Councilmember Buckshnis said the 2018 estimate for the Council budget will be only $100,000 and she
wanted to carryover the $132,000 into 2019 to continue the Windward contract.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
ADD A NEW DECISION PACKAGE — ADD CARRYFORWARD FOR PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS, TO
EXTEND THE MEETING UNTIL 10:30 P.M. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
14. Remove Contract Project Management Support - $45,000
Councilmember Teitzel explained after substantial debate and deliberation earlier this year, the City
Council agreed to add a finance manager to Public Works. Part of the rationale was existing Public Works
personnel spend a substantial amount of time working on financial issues. The finance manager will free
up staff to work on tasks in their job description. This could be revisited next year if necessary after the
impact of the finance manager on workloads is known.
COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
REMOVE CONTRACT PROJECT MANAGEMENT SUPPORT.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 22
Mr. Williams said staff is working to fill the finance manager position. This is project management, not
finance management. The main rationale is the capital renewal program previously had $56,600/year for
20 years. That amount was increased in 2014/205 to $100,000, then to $300,000, last year to $530,00 and
this year is $700,000 Although that is an incredible increase, it is still not a enough to bring City buildings
to a sustainable condition. The recently completed Facility Condition Index suggests there is a $5M backlog
in deferred maintenance on City buildings. Even if the $5M backlog had been addressed, the funding level
to keep them at that level is $800,000/year. When the funding level was $56,000, the facilities manager
could execute those small projects; with more investment in the buildings, the suggestion is to hire a
consultant to assist the facilities manager deliver projects to improve buildings.
Councilmember Tibbott relayed his understanding that the increased funding was projects to address
deferred maintenance. The request is $45,000 for a project manager to manage $700,000 in projects. He
asked how many years a project manager consultant would be needed. Mr. Williams said if the ongoing
commitment is $800,000/year, and there is a $5M backlog, he did not envision it would be short term. The
City could bond for a capital project to upgrade building systems but once the deferred maintenance is
accomplished, the ongoing cost of capital renewal is $800,000/year. It is difficult for the facilities manager
to manage staff as well as function as a project manager for $700,000 in capital work.
Councilmember Mesaros asked who would do the work if the funding was removed. Mr. Williams
answered funds budgeted for projects would be used to hire project management which would reduce the
number of projects that would be delivered. Councilmember Mesaros summarized not approving this
funding simply defers maintenance longer. Mr. Williams said that is one way to look at it; this work will
require someone's time and it has to be paid for somehow. It will be either taken out of the funds allocated
for the projects or by adding funds for project management.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (5-2), COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON AND
COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, FRALEY-MONILLAS, BUCKSHNIS AND TEITZEL VOTING
YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS MESAROS AND TIBBOTT VOTING NO.
10. ACTION ITEMS
ORDINANCE RELATED TO BUSINESS LICENSE MINIMUM THRESHOLD AND
DEFINITION OF ENGAGING IN BUSINESS
City Clerk Scott Passey relayed the State legislature passed a law requiring cities with a business license to
partner with the state's Business Licensing Service (BLS) to issue city business licenses. Edmonds will
begin partnering with the state in the second quarter of 2019. As a precursor to that partnership, Edmonds
needs to update its business code with regard to, 1) the definition of what it means to engage in business,
and 2) establish a threshold exemption that applies to out-of-town or transient businesses that do business
in Edmonds. The exemption is the amount a business makes in annual revenue to trigger the City requiring
them to have a city business license. Most cities who have established a threshold have selected
$12,000/year; some smaller cities are establishing smaller thresholds, even as low as $1,000. Staff feels
$12,000 is a reasonable threshold and it has been adopted by comparable cities such as Bothell, Kirkland,
Tukwila, University Place, and Burien. Staff recommends Council adopt the ordinance to amend the
business license code to adopt a new definition of engaging in business and establish a threshold exemption
of $12,000/year.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
APPROVE ORDINANCE NO. 4135, AMENDING THE DEFINITION OF "ENGAGING IN
BUSINESS" AND ESTABLISHING A MINIMUM THRESHOLD EXEMPTION.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 23
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked the amount of revenue loss to the City and whether there were many
businesses that make less than $12,000/year. Mr. Passey said revenue is on a self -reporting basis. The City
has a service that tries to identify businesses that should have a license, but it is not very successful. The
benefit of partnering with the state is BLS is the Department of Revenue so they know who is doing business
in the City. When the partnership is activated, it is likely compliance will increase. The City's business
license code will need to be revised to reflect that the state is administering the code.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked if it was primarily home businesses that make less than $12,000.
Mr. Passey answered it could be home occupations. It would be possible to have different rates for home
occupations and/or non-residents because they take less time to review because there is no land use review.
Councilmember Tibbott asked if this was related to business conducted in the City. Mr. Passey answered
yes.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. 2018 COUNCIL CONTINGENCY OF $10K FUNDS FOR 2019 HISTORICAL
PRESERVATION INTERNS
Development Services Director Shane Hope reported she worked on this with Councilmember Johnson,
who is on the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). The HPC would like to be more proactive in
encouraging property owners to register their property on the Registry of Historic Places. However, with
limited staff and volunteers, it was suggested hiring student interns to identify historic structures. She
emphasized it is a voluntary program to encourage historic preservation; she anticipated more people may
be interested if they knew about the program
Councilmember Johnson relayed this idea was proposed by Planning Manager Rob Chave in an effort to
get more houses on the register. Council Contingency funds would be used to hire the interns.
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS,
TO APPROVE $10,000 FROM THE COUNCIL CONTINGENCY FOR 2019 HISTORICAL
PRESERVATION INTERNS.
Councilmember Tibbott relayed his understanding these funds were from the 2018 Council Contingency.
Councilmember Johnson agreed, explaining Mr. Chave suggested advertising nationally in an effort to
attract students in a historic preservation graduate program. Councilmember Tibbott asked about student
qualifications. Councilmember Johnson envisioned graduate level students in a historic preservation
program in their first to second year.
Councilmember Teitzel supported this proposal, anticipating this could accelerate the addition of properties
to the registry and retain the character of Edmonds.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
3. HOUSING STRATEGY REVIEW
Councilmember Tibbott emphasized this is not intended for action tonight, it is a proposal that would be
brought to Council on early 2019. The purpose of the proposal is to, 1) capture the momentum of the
Housing Strategy Task Force, harness the community involvement, energy and input and make the most of
citizen input, and 2) provide via a citizen commission a process to narrow the focus of the Housing Strategy.
The proposal is being presented in 2018 because two actions may need to be taken, 1) put an amendment
to Comprehensive Plan on the 2019 docket to increase the time to develop a Housing Strategy, and 2) there
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 24
could be budget implications to ensure sufficient Council Contingency funds are available. He summarized
the intent was to form a Citizens Housing Commission whose focus in the short term would be a Housing
Strategy and in the long term, implementing actions and gathering input from citizens. The commission has
a sunset date of January 1, 2021.
Councilmember Tibbott explained the Council will provide the commission specific guidance to ensure
they have a clear mission, expected accomplishments and recommendations that will be valuable to City
Council. The selection process includes several options. He anticipated a deliberate process with a lot of
citizen input from different areas of the City. He hoped to complete a Housing Strategy in 2019 and keep
the commission intact for another year to receive additional input during implementation.
Councilmember Buckshnis said City Attorney Jeff Taraday will draft a resolution docketing an amendment
to the Comprehensive Plan to remove the implementation action, Develop a strategy by 2019 for increasing
the supply of affordable housing and meeting diverse housing needs. She said the Comprehensive Plan
already has affordable housing strategies and the draft Housing Strategy is on steroids. She preferred to get
back to basics, invite the public and allow public comment during commission meetings which has not
happened with the administration's task force. Councilmembers will each select a citizen to serve on this
Council -driven commission.
Council President Nelson said he directed Mr. Taraday to develop a resolution to amend the Comprehensive
Plan for consideration at next Tuesday's meeting. Council President Nelson thanked Councilmembers
Tibbott and Buckshnis for their work developing this Citizens Housing Commission. He suggested
doubling the number of Council appointees from one to two, the Mayor appointing one member, no
Planning Board member and only one Councilmember. He expressed interest in funding the public
engagement such as mailing postcard and/or doing a survey.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
TEITZEL, TO EXTEND THE MEETING FOR TEN MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked how the Citizens Housing Commission would be blended with the
current new task force that has two meetings scheduled next week. Councilmember Tibbott explained the
intent is not to reform the task force. Ms. Hope has an advisory group that is assisting her; that was intended
to be an interim group, not long-term. He looked forward to collaborating with staff and he has ideas for
increasing communication at the Council level as well as utilizing existing commission. The intent is to
increase citizen input and develop a quality approach to implementing the Housing Element, but also a
quality vision for how housing and other city services are impacted as the population grows, as the region
grows and employment increases. grows. He was optimistic this will be a way to bring people together to
have vital conversations around this issue.
Councilmember Mesaros agreed with Council President Nelson's suggestion to have a larger group by each
Councilmember appointing two members. The more input the better. He reminded the public that when
there is an opportunity for Councilmembers to appoint members, the opportunity to apply is publicized;
Councilmembers then review the applications and make appointments.
In response to Councilmember Fraley-Monillas' question, Councilmember Buckshnis said the draft strategy
developed by BERT blew up. That task force went away, an advisory group was formed to advise staff.
She envisioned the Citizens Housing Commission as a visioning group that will be open to the public. This
is simply a draft to get started and docket the removal of the implementation action. The Council will create
its own commission, she liked the idea of Councilmembers appointing two members. The reason she
proposed carrying forward $90,000 into the 2019 budget was to provide funds.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 25
Councilmember Teitzel commented this has been a very divisive issue between Council, staff, and citizens
and he hoped to get beyond that. The summary statement developed by Councilmember Buckshnis and
Councilmember Tibbott states this commission will serve that the direction of the Council and seek to
produce a Housing Strategy. He hoped it was a City Housing Strategy, not a Council Housing Strategy. His
vision was to form a citizen commission and work with staff to develop a new strategy document. He was
not interested in Council forming a citizen commission that requires hiring a consultant to create a Council
strategy. He asked if the if intent was a Council strategy or a City strategy. Councilmember Tibbott said
like any commission that produces a product, the Council offers guidance. The intent is to produce a strategy
in cooperation with City staff and the commission provide recommendations for Council consideration. He
emphasized the specifics of the commission will be discussed during a study session in 2019.
Because so many people are interested in the Housing Strategy, Councilmember Johnson suggested Ms.
Hope summarize the status of the advisory group and the trajectory of that effort. Ms. Hope said the advisory
committee is intended to be short term committee, helping her on public engagement, housing issues, etc.
It is not intended to conflict with this commission.
Councilmember Johnson was interested in some type of hierarchy for the Housing Strategy, commenting
the compendium of ideas that it started with need to be narrowed. She was interested in what could be done
in the short term and the highest priorities to ensure the commission gets work done instead of talking about
it for two years. The highest priority for her personally is the senior population. Edmonds has a lot of single
people living in homes who need different support that an emerging market in Seattle. She was less
interested in a lengthy process and was very interested in incorporating the work that has been done so far,
gathering valuable feedback from citizens and then working on housing implementation rather than just a
Housing Strategy.
COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS, TO
EXTEND THE MEETING FOR TEN MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Tibbott reiterated he brought this forward to docket the amendment to the Comprehensive
Plan and ensure there are adequate funds in the 2019 budget.
Councilmember Teitzel pointed out the first goal in the Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan states,
encourage adequate housing opportunities for all families and individuals in the community regardless of
their race, age, sex, religion, disability or economic circumstances. He recommended the commission first
review the Housing Element goals and policies to ensure they are well understood.
11. REPORTS ON COUNCIL COMMITTEES
This item was omitted.
12. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Earling had no comments.
13. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmember Johnson thanked the audience, commenting she did not recall seeing people in the audience
at 10:45 p.m.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she will call in to the Council meeting from Wisconsin next week.
Information about the Edmonds Marsh and PSAR funding is available from the Council's legislative
assistant. The marsh should be on their priority list.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 26
Councilmember Teitzel said speaking for all Cougars, we'll get `em next year.
Councilmember Tibbott said he enjoyed watching the snowstorm in Pullman and was celebrating the
Huskies' win.
Councilmember Mesaros was pleased that 37 years ago today he married the love of his life.
14. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION
PER RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)
This item was not needed.
15. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING IN
EXECUTIVE SESSION
This item was not needed.
16. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:47 p.m.
r `
ID O. EA LING, MAYOR r PAS EY, CITY CLE
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 27, 2018
Page 27