12/02/2014 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
December 2, 2014
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis in the
Council Chambers, 250 5"' Avenue North, Edmonds.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Diane Buckshnis, Mayor Pro Tem
Kristiana Johnson, Council President Pro Tem
Lora Petso, Councilmember
Joan Bloom, Councilmember
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember
Thomas Mesaros, Councilmember
ELECTED OFFICIALS ABSENT
Dave Earling, Mayor
Strom Peterson, Councilmember
1. ROLL CALL
STAFF PRESENT
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Scott James, Finance Director
Shane Hope, Development Services Director
Carrie Hite, Parks & Recreation Director
Jerry Shuster, Stormwater Eng. Program Mgr.
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Scott Passey, City Clerk
Jerrie Bevington, Camera Operator.
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
ALSO PRESENT
Noushyal Eslami, Student Representative
City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present with the exception of
Councilmember Peterson and Mayor Earling.
MAYOR PRO TEM BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS,
TO EXCUSE COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO ADD
DISCUSSION OF WORK SESSIONS AS AGENDA ITEM 9. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO TEM
JOHNSON, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER AS AMENDED.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
3. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS5
Councilmember Petso requested Item E be removed from the Consent Agenda and Councilmember
Bloom requested Item D be removed.
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO TEM
JOHNSON, TO APPROVE THE REMAINDER OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows:
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 2, 2014
Page 1
A. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #211671 THROUGH #211743 DATED NOVEMBER
25, 2014 FOR $752,107.88 (REPLACEMENT CHECKS #211671 $200.00 AND #211710
$275.70)
B. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF A CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM KONSTANTINE
TSOURDINIS ($638.94)
C. AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE
SWIM LESSONS TO THIRD GRADE STUDENTS
F. INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT FOR JAIL SERVICES WITH THE CITY OF
LYNNWOOD
ITEM D: AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR
THE DEVELOPMENT CODE MAJOR UPDATE
Councilmember Bloom asked whether this was in compliance with Ordinance 3303 Exhibit A, the
Purchasing Policy. City Attorney Jeff Taraday was not certain what Ordinance 3303 was. He explained
this is a contract for services. The purchasing policy authorizes the Mayor to execute contracts for goods
and services under $100,000; contracts over $100,000 require Council approval. Councilmember Bloom
asked whether this was subject to bid. Mr. Taraday answered it is not that kind of a contract; a service
contracts follow a different process than a construction contract.
Councilmember Bloom explained she pulled this item from the Consent Agenda for several reasons; first,
she wanted to confirm the correct process was followed and was basing her understanding on Ordinance
3303. Mr. Taraday suggested asking the staff about the process they followed. Development Services
Director Shane Hope described the process: professional service agreements under $100,000 and within
the budget can proceed without Council approval; over $100,000 require Council approval. There is no
requirement for bids because there is no bid process. Following an RFQ process, the best candidate is
selected; all submittals are typically not provided to Council. Councilmember Bloom requested a code
reference with regard to the process.
Councilmember Bloom explained another reason she pulled this item was her request to include $300,000
in the budget to complete the Development Code rewrite. She suggested addressing this agreement in
conjunction with that request during the budget discussion next week. If the Council is supportive of
$300,000 for a full rewrite, consideration could be given to combining the contracts or proceeding in a
phased manner.
Councilmember Petso asked if there was any problem with delaying this decision 1-2 weeks to allow it to
be discussed with budget. Ms. Hope answered it would delay starting the code rewrite. Mr. Taraday
explained he was quite confident no State law applied to the award of a professional service contract for
this type for service. There is a State law regarding the hiring architectural and engineering services; even
in that instance staff selects the most qualified firm and negotiates a contract. If Councilmember Bloom's
concern was with the process, he found it highly unlikely there was a process reason to hold up approval
of this contract. Councilmember Bloom assured that was not her only concern; she wanted to ensure the
appropriate process was followed but she was also concerned this agreement was on the Consent Agenda
and wanted to discuss that issue during the discussion regarding work sessions. Typically this type of
agreement would have been reviewed by a Council committee. Her bigger concern was considering this
agreement as part of the Council's consideration of $300,000 for the complete code rewrite in addition to
the $115,000.
Councilmember Petso asked whether this was a decision package in the budget. Ms. Hope answered the
decision package is to carry forward $85,000 of the $110,000.
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December 2, 2014
Page 2
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
BRING THIS ITEM BACK WITH THE BUDGET.
If the Council made a decision to add funds to the budget for the code rewrite, Councilmember Mesaros
observed this agreement would not interfere with that but would expedite it. Ms. Hope agreed, advising
this could be done and another set of codes could be addressed with additional funds. Councilmember
Mesaros observed the code rewrite needed to start somewhere; this agreement would allow it to start now
using the available funds and additional resources could be added during the budget discussions. Ms.
Hope agreed.
Councilmember Petso observed there could be a problem if the Council authorized this agreement and did
not adopt the decision package. Ms. Hope explained staff would then request a budget amendment.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis commented this is a routine thing, it is just a carry -forward which is the reason
it was on the Consent Agenda. This simply continues the process that was started two years ago. This
agreement has no impact on any additional funds for the code rewrite; that could be a separate decision as
part of the budget.
Councilmember Bloom relayed her discussion with Ms. Hope that indicated if the Council added
$300,000, the City could potentially attract firms that were more highly qualified in developing code.
Allocating funds for this agreement may not be the best option if the Council makes a decision to add
$300,000. For example the company selected in this agreement does not have any attorneys on staff.
Councilmember Mesaros asked Ms. Hope how she wanted this to proceed. Ms. Hope said she preferred to
move forward with this professional services agreement and then deal with any additional funding that
may be approved. This firm is qualified; they have done codes for Ellensburg, Boise, Sammamish,
Evergreen Way Plan, Tacoma, Chelan, Everett, Woodinville, Tumwater, Capitol Boulevard, Lacey, and
Bellingham.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked about the $300,000 for the complete code rewrite.
Councilmember Bloom answered that is the reason she wanted to discuss this in conjunction with the
budget discussion. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas recalled the budget is pretty tight and it may behoove
the Council to move forward knowing it may be difficult to identify $300,000 in the budget.
Councilmember Bloom reiterated this is a discussion for next week.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (3-3), COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND PETSO AND
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO TEM JOHNSON VOTING YES; AND MAYOR PRO TEM
BUCKSHNIS AND COUNCILMEMBERS FRALEY-MONILLAS AND MESAROS VOTING NO.
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE AGENDA ITEM D. UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (4-2),
MAYOR PRO TEM BUCKSHNIS, COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO TEM JOHNSON AND
COUNCILMEMBERS FRALEY-MONILLAS AND MESAROS VOTING YES; AND
COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND PETSO VOTING NO.
ITEM E: DEPUTY DIRECTOR PARKS JOB DESCRIPTION AND SALARY RANGE APPROVAL
As she mentioned at the work session, Councilmember Petso was not in favor of doing this at this time.
She preferred to continue to fund the current deputy director on an acting/interim basis rather than create
a new position short of a full reorganization of the Parks & Recreation Department and therefore will vote
no on this item.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 2, 2014
Page 3
Councilmember Bloom said she will also vote no. She feared this would tie the Mayor's hands should he
want to change who oversees the Human Resources Department in the future by locking in a position that
is being created to free up Ms. Hite.
Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite clarified this is a not a new position, it is a promotion for the
existing recreation manager. She relies on this position because she spreads her time to the Human
Resources but also because there are a lot of project underway. Since she was hired the City has
completed the Hazel Miller Plaza, Interurban Trail, received a grant for City Park and are in the process
of rehabbing City Park, completed the PROS Plan and Community Cultural Plan, etc. This position has
done a great deal of the community outreach and involving the public in the processes which she does not
have the capacity to do even if she were not overseeing Human Resources. It is an efficient use of
resources and does not have any budget impact this year.
Councilmember Petso asked if there were budget impacts in future years. Ms. Hite agreed it did.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked whether this was a union position. Ms. Hite answered it was
currently exempt and would continue to be a nonrepresented position. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas
observed it could be changed in the future. Ms. Hite agreed.
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE AGENDA ITEM E. UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (3-3),
MAYOR PRO TEM BUCKSHNIS AND COUNCILMEMBERS FRALEY-MONILLAS AND
MESAROS VOTING YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND PETSO AND COUNCIL
PRESIDENT PRO TEM JOHNSON VOTING NO.
4. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Maggie Fimia, Edmonds, spoke in favor of moving forward with creating a Diversity Commission. She
recognized a Diversity Commission will not magically eliminate discrimination and fear of those who are
different, but it can provide a forum for increasing understanding and tolerance and encouraging
participation by those who do not normally participate in civic events and processes. She referred to
model ordinances for the cities of Kent, Federal Way, Lynnwood and Bellevue. She suggested the
Diversity Commission do the following as a minimum:
1. Truly represent different segments of the diversity community.
2. Include goals and strategies that help the broader community understand and appreciate other
cultures and ideas.
3. Include goals and strategies that help those new to the community assimilate and participate.
4. Include as part of its mission providing real opportunities to connect and cross paths with each
other like an annual folk festival where all nationalities and cultures are encouraged to participate.
5. Find venues for telling the stories of people from diverse backgrounds and those who have been
here for several generations, telling the stories of their ancestors.
6. Fund it.
She was encouraged the Council was getting ahead of this issue before any serious incidents take place.
Emily Scott, Chair, Edmonds Historic Preservation Commission, relayed their excitement with
continuing to work with the City Council. She announced the 2015 Historic Edmonds calendar is
available for free at City Hall, the Log Cabin and the Museum. She requested citizens limit themselves to
5 and businesses to 20.
Emily Hill, Edmonds, commented on the celebratory moment of the Council discussing the formation of
a Diversity Commission. She recalled three months ago Edmonds residents proved by the outpouring of
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December 2, 2014
Page 4
support for the Edmonds Embraces Diversity Demonstration how generous they feel toward each other.
Edmonds' proximity to SeaTac, the shores of Puget Sound and ferry and rail routes results in a diverse
population. Senior Center, Edmonds School District and even a Facebook group Edmonds Moms lend a
hand to those in need of food and shelter. She cited examples such as delegates from Edmonds traveling
to China, the school district's education learning center, an art show for Washington artists with
disabilities sponsored by Art Works and more ethnic restaurants. In Edmonds diversity happens naturally
and kindness prevails. When the Council discusses the topic of forming a Diversity Commission later on
the agenda, she reminded Edmonds is a willing community with experienced activist citizens who are
excited to move forward in a positive way with encouragement from neighboring cities. She urged the
Council to approve the formation of a Diversity Commission, assuring Edmonds residents are ready to
roll up their sleeves and step forward.
Stephen Clifton, Edmonds, expressed support for the creation of a Diversity Commission and concurred
with the previous speakers. He expressed his appreciation to Councilmembers Mesaros, Peterson,
Buckshnis and Johnson for their action on April 15, 2014 to move the Five Corners roundabout project
forward. Since the project was completed, he has heard from several friends who were once opposed to
the roundabout now expressing support after using the intersection. He also expressed his thanks to
Mayor Earling for his continued support of the project and ongoing leadership; Phil Williams, Rob
English, Frances Chapin and the other Public Works staff who worked on the project for job well done•,
and Calvary Church for hosting the ribbon cutting festivities. The Five Corners roundabout is a great
example of roundabouts known for improving safety and traffic efficiencies but also enhancing the
overall beauty of intersections. The Five Corners roundabout is a great example that sometimes certain
changes can be good for communities.
Gail Ketzel, Edmonds, spoke in support of creating a Diversity Commission. She pointed out many
jurisdictions have chosen to create such commissions to engage individuals, neighborhoods and the
community at large in outreach and education about the inclusion of every citizen while respecting their
differences. She recognized many were raised with some biases, recalling her mother's caution about
playing with classmates of color. She and her mother outgrew those fears and her son was less much
affected. Although a Diversity Commission cannot cure legislate or mandate biases, it can open a door in
the wall of alienation, it can be the education and outreach arm for both the dominant culture and minority
cultures, be an advisory body to the Council, City and School Board and citizens, and hold educational
and celebratory events that acknowledge differences and bring everyone together and strengthen the City.
She hoped to see Edmonds become an even stronger and more inclusive City by engaging all its citizens;
the act of creating a Diversity Commission would begin that process.
Alvin Rutledge, Edmonds, relayed former Finance Director Lorenzo Hines, who left Edmonds to be the
Finance Director in Lynnwood, is now moving to Los Angeles, California. He announced the Carol Rowe
Memorial Food Bank's food drive at IGA on December 12, 13 and 14.
Ron Wambolt, Edmonds, referred to Council discussion last week about the intersection of 196`" & 88th
discussed and numerous comments on My Edmonds News. He recalled the Council discussing this
intersection at great length in 2007 when he was a Councilmember. In December 2007 a consultant hired
to study the intersection recommended right turn only from 88`h to 196"' but a majority of the Council did
not favor that option due to their preference for a traffic signal. Subsequently two Councilmembers and
staff met with Washington State Department Transportation (WSDOT) in April 2008 but did not arrive at
any agreeable solution. That intersection does not meet the warrants for a traffic signal; 5 accidents would
have been prevented by a traffic signal in a 12 months period would be required to justify a signal. He
suggested it would be beneficial for the Council and audience for the City's Transportation Engineer to
make presentation regarding what can and cannot be done at that intersection. Next, he referred to a
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 2, 2014
Page 5
$30,000 decision package in the proposed budget to support the City's website afterhours. That was be
money well spent as evidenced by the City's website being down this weekend.
Mario Brown, Edmonds, referred to the formation of a Diversity Commission. He explained his father is
a Jew; his grandfather was one of the sole survivors in his family to escape Nazi Germany. At that time
the United States would not accept Jews so he entered Cuba. As a result, Mr. Brown explained he is the
son of a Caribbean Latino Jew. His material grandmother is Irish and Native American who had a child
with a Fijian man. Growing up in Arkansas in the 40s, 50 and 60s, his mother fought against segregation.
The reason his mother married a Jew was her neighbors, Auschwitz survivors, who bailed her out of jail
told her she could repay them by marrying a Jew. His parents fought long and hard for him and his
brothers to have a better life and now they get to live in Edmonds, a gift that does not happen to all people
of color. He spoke in favor of forming a Diversity Commission and expressed his willing to serve on the
commission. According to 2010 census, Edmonds has a 19.5% non-white population or 1 in 5 and of the
20%, 10% are foreign born. He encouraged the City Council to approve the formation of a Diversity
Commission.
Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, relayed he left last week's study session to watch the meeting on TV because
he was unable to hear the discussion occurring at the table. He suggested the Council do something with
microphones or sit at the dais. He reiterated a question he asked last week, who was the City's contact
person at BNSF. Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis advised a meeting was scheduled but she was not certain
who the BNSF representative was. Mr. Hertrich referred to Consent Agenda E, Deputy Director Parks Job
Description and Salary Range Approval, and asked whether the person in that position had a degree in
education, recreation, leisure management, business administration, etc. Although the job description
allowed an equivalent combination of education, training and experience, he felt education should be a
minimum requirement for an employee earning over $100,000/year or the person should be working
toward a degree.
5. DISCUSSION AND ACTION REGARDING CITY COUNCIL EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT AND
LEGISLATIVE ASSISTANT
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis recalled a full-time legislative assistant was brought up during the last two
budget processes. During the past year there have been very few agenda items generated by
Councilmembers; some examples include the attorney contract, attorney evaluation, Tree Board
investigative work on a moratorium, Woodway Police contract, Diversity Commission, ethics policy,
code of conduct, etc. and most of those do not occur on a yearly basis. She suggested the executive
assistant also serve as a legislative assistant to the Council utilizing the additional 20 hours per month.
Although he has supported a full-time position, Councilmember Mesaros was willing to try it as a half-
time position. There were times he would like to obtain more information than was provided and a
legislative assistant who could conduct research would make Councilmembers less reliant on staff. He
encouraged Councilmembers to utilize the person in the position, envisioning if the individual is utilized
to the fullest, by next year the Council will be asking for a full-time position.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas agreed the Council needed some assistance. She noted the Council has
changed dramatically over the years; for example she has updated/written code regarding parking,
animals, etc. She relayed Councilmember Peterson's support for some form of a legislative assistant. She
was willing to try using the current executive assistant in this capacity and see how it works. She referred
to the difference between the duties of a legislative assistant compared to an administrative assistant and
wanted to ensure Councilmembers understand the difference.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
MESAROS, TO MOVE FORWARD.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 2, 2014
Page 6
Council President Pro Tem Johnson recalled her suggestion during the last two years to have a half-time
legislative assistant. Anything that can be done to support the Council in being more effective and
efficient is good for the entire City. She noted there are two separate issues, 1) restoring Ms. Spellman's
hours to 20 hours/week, and 2) the legislative assistant position. She was in favor of a part-time
legislative assistant and restoring Ms. Spellman to 20 hours/week.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. Taraday asked for clarification on what the motion means. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas relayed
her intent was to follow the draft executive assistant/legislative assistant job description. From the
discussion, Mr. Taraday relayed he was uncertain whether the motion was to create a new legislative
assistant position or to restore the hours of the current assistant from 16 to 20. Councilmember Fraley-
Monillas said she did not include restoring the hours because that is a personnel decision. Her motion was
to approve an executive assistant/legislative assistant as outlined in the packet. Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis
referred to Attachment 4, 2015 Draft Spellman Agreement, and Attachment 5, Spellman 2015 Job
Description.
6. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE DRAFT HOUSING ELEMENT OF THE 2015 COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN UPDATE
Development Services Director Shane Hope provided background:
• Comprehensive Plans are key local policy documents
• Guided by GMA
• Under GMA, local governments must implement and be consistent with their Comprehensive
Plans
She provided an overview of the process:
• Under GMA, Comprehensive Plans are subject to major review and update every 8 years
• Next Comprehensive Plan major update for Edmonds is due to the State mid -2015
• New planning horizon — 2035 instead of 2025
She described the approach to the 2015 update
• Primary focus — data update
• Update as needed
• Housekeeping changes (updating or clarifying items)
• Goals and policies — retaining general direction, with any minor language adjustments
• Add annual performance measures and date -specific actions steps (generally one per element) to
monitor progress
o Criteria for performance measures
■ Related to community sustainability
■ Related to implementing specific Comprehensive Plan element
■ Meaningful
■ Easy for City to track and report on each year
• Other changes for consistency
• Comprehensive Plan can generally be amended no more than once per year per State law
• Edmonds Comprehensive Plan is going through element -by -element review
• Adoption to be scheduled only after all draft updates of elements have been reviewed and final
public hearings held
• Updating "Housing Element" — current topic
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 2, 2014
Page 7
Ms. Hope described the Housing Element process:
• Presentation of housing data and discussion of Housing Performance Measure to Planning Board
- September 24, 2014
• Planning Board discussion of draft Housing Element — October 22, 2014
• Presentation of housing data to City Council — October 28, 2014
• Planning Board recommendation — October 12, 2014
• City Council public hearing on Housing Element — December 2, 2014
• City Council study session on draft Housing Element — December 9, 2014
She reviewed draft Housing element changes:
• Updated census, housing and population targets data
• Removed outdated section on County's Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy
• Added partnership with Alliance For Housing Affordability
• Reformatted goals and policies
• Added one performance measure to track process
• Added one key "Implementation Step" to follow up on future housing needs
She highlighted information in the Housing Element regarding growth:
• Housing targeted to grow at an average annual rate of 0.6% per Snohomish County Tomorrow
• Annual growth rate from 2000-2010 was 0.5%
With regard to demographics, Ms. Hope displayed a chart illustrating the percentage of age groups in
Washington, Snohomish County Edmonds under 20, 20 — 44, 45-64, and 65 and over. She noted the first
baby boomers turned 65 in 2011; in 2035 baby boomers will be 71 to 89 years of age. She also displayed
a chart of population growth for children 0-4, 5-9, 10-14 years of age 2000-2010 Edmonds, Snohomish
County and Washington
The following table illustrates the minimum income required to afford housing in Edmonds
City of Edmonds Ho sing
Growth
Lowest Rent
Census Year
Housing Units
Increase Percent Increase
Avg Annual Income
1980
10,702
$46
$1,187
1 Bed
1990
12,245
1,543
21.0%
1.9%
2000
17,508
5,263
35.2%
3.1%
2010
18,378
870
5.0%
0.5%
Growth target: 2015
21,168
2,790
15.2%
0.6%
With regard to demographics, Ms. Hope displayed a chart illustrating the percentage of age groups in
Washington, Snohomish County Edmonds under 20, 20 — 44, 45-64, and 65 and over. She noted the first
baby boomers turned 65 in 2011; in 2035 baby boomers will be 71 to 89 years of age. She also displayed
a chart of population growth for children 0-4, 5-9, 10-14 years of age 2000-2010 Edmonds, Snohomish
County and Washington
The following table illustrates the minimum income required to afford housing in Edmonds
She displayed a bar graph of home sales affordability in Edmonds 2008-2012 illustrating the percentage
of homes affordable to each income level (extremely low, very low, low, moderate and middle). Housing
affordability is an issue for rental as well as home sales. She reported on the projected housing need in
Edmonds:
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 2, 2014
Page 8
Average Rent
(With
Utilities)
Minimum Income Required
Lowest Rent
Highest Rent
Minimum Minimum
Hourly Wage Annual
Wage
Studio
1 $833
$16
33,320
$46
$1,187
1 Bed
$887
$17
$35,480
$662
$1,521
2 Bed
$1,097
$21
$43,880
$777
$1,916
3 Bed
$1,679
$32
$67,160
$1,094
$,4215
4 Bed
$2,545
$49
$101,800
$1,947
$4,347
5 Bed
$2,844
$55
$113,760
$2,276
$3,771
She displayed a bar graph of home sales affordability in Edmonds 2008-2012 illustrating the percentage
of homes affordable to each income level (extremely low, very low, low, moderate and middle). Housing
affordability is an issue for rental as well as home sales. She reported on the projected housing need in
Edmonds:
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 2, 2014
Page 8
Jurisdictions
Total Housing
Under 30% AMI
30-50% AMI
50-80% AMI
Unit Growth need
Housing Need
Housing Need
Housing Need
(11% of Total)
(11% of Total)
(17% of Total)
Edmonds
2,790
307
307
474
Ms. Hope reviewed Housing Element — Goals and Policies
• Goals and policies provide broad guidance for future
• Draft Housing Element update
o Reformats
o Updates some language
o Retains goal and policy direction from current Comprehensive Plan
Additions to encourage monitoring and implementation
o Performance Measure: Report number of residential units permitted each year with goal of
having 21,168 units total by 2035 or on average 112 additional dwelling units per year
o Action Step: Develop a strategy by 2019 for increasing the supply of affordable housing and
meeting diverse housing needs
Ms. Hope described next steps:
• Tonight public hearing
• City Council Study session on draft Housing Element for comments, questions, direction
(December 9)
• Draft Housing Element to be brought back by mid -2015 as part of full Comprehensive Plan
update (with more public process)
Councilmember Petso observed the median income for the Bellevue area was used to evaluate affordable
housing rather than using Snohomish County's median income. She asked whether that may make
housing in Edmonds less affordable because the median income in Bellevue is much higher. She asked
why that choice was made and why Edmonds' median income was not used. Ms. Hope answered there
are two pieces of housing data related to affordability, one uses only Snohomish County information;
using only Snohomish County information the City still needs more affordable housing. If the greater
Seattle region is used, and many people think of Edmonds as part of the greater Seattle region, the income
level is higher but more affordable housing is still needed. The Affordable Housing Profile used the
median income for the greater Seattle region which includes Seattle, Bellevue, Shoreline, Lynnwood and
other cities in the region. Councilmember Petso asked whether Edmonds could use its own median
income. Ms. Hope answered either the County or the greater Seattle region could be used.
Councilmember Petso referred to language added to the document regarding maximum efficiency in
permitting. She wanted to ensure that did not mean efficiency to the point of eliminating public notice or
appropriate plan review. Ms. Hope assured that was not the intent. Councilmember Petso asked why that
language was being added and whether it was because the City was inefficient. Ms. Hope did not recall
that language was added.
Councilmember Bloom referred to language about developing affordable housing by 2019. Ms. Hope
clarified it was to develop a strategy by 2019 for what the City can do to encourage more affordable
housing. She noted there are a number of things local governments can do such as partnerships, etc.
Councilmember Bloom asked whether it was necessary to include specific language regarding low
income housing. Ms. Hope answered it was not necessary but it could be part of the strategy. Low income
and special needs housing is included in affordable housing.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
December 2, 2014
Page 9
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas how much the strategy would cost the Development Services
Department over time. Ms. Hope explained the reason staff recommended 2019 to the Planning Board
and not 2015 or 2016 was to provide more time. She referred to the City's partnership with the Alliance
for Housing Affordability (AHA) and perhaps others. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked about
implementation, recognizing that low income housing takes staff time to monitor, etc. Ms. Hope
envisioned implementation via partnership with other agencies, not for the City be the housing provider.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas relayed her understanding of Ms. Hope's explanation that the strategy
would not cost staff a lot of time. Ms. Hope agreed, explaining staff will help develop a strategy, identify
options, pros and cons, etc. by working with partners.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis said she liked the changes that target affordability, special needs and seniors.
She asked if the Housing Element will include the AHA. Ms. Hope answered the AHA is specifically
identified in the draft Housing Element. Data from the Housing Profile prepared by AHA is included in
the Comprehensive Plan; the Housing Profile will not be included in its entirety.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis opened the public participation portion of public hearing. There were no
members of the public present who wished to provide testimony and Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis closed
the public hearing.
7. FINAL REPORT ON THE PERRINVILLE CREEK FLOW REDUCTION STUDY AND PRE -
DESIGN PROJECT
Stormwater Program Manager Jerry Shuster provided background on the Perrinville Creek Flow
Reduction Study:
• 2013 budget included $200,000 for the study
• Goal of study was to find ways to reduce the amount of stormwater entering Perrinville Creek
0 Excessive stormwater causes a number of problems including upstream bank erosion,
downstream flooding, sedimentation, loss of habitat and damage to private and public
infrastructure
• May 2013 Council authorized acceptance of an $189,000 grant with Department of Ecology to be
added to the $200,000 to do a pre -design on 2 projects to help reduce stormwater flow
• May 2013 Council approved contract with Tetra Tech to conduct the study
• June 2014 update to Council
• August 2014 public meeting/open house to present results of the study and recommended list of
projects
0 Tonight is information only, summary of work completed including a brief descriptions of the
two projects for which pre -design was done with the grant from Department of Ecology
Rick Schaefer, Senior Program Manager, Tetra Tech, displayed a map of the Perrinville Creek
Watershed and described the watershed:
0 764 acres
• Located in Edmond and Lynnwood
• Urbanized plateau in upper portion
• Steep ravine in lower portion
He described the project need:
• Elevated flow in the creek
• Channel scour
• Undermined slopes
o Slope failures
o Degraded habitat
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o Water quality impacts
• Sediment deposition
• Risk of blocking culvert
• Fish impassable culvert
• Ongoing maintenance costs to remove sediment
He provided photographs of the upper eroding reaches and lower depositing reaches. He provided a
flowchart of objectives/outcomes that illustrated the interconnectivity between controlling runoff,
reducing high flows, and reducing channel scour, improving water quality, reducing flooding risk and
frequency, protecting banks and slopes, stabilizing conditions for habit, reducing sediment transport,
protecting culvert from block and reducing maintenance frequency.
Mr. Schaefer described the solution approach:
• Facility retrofits (low -hanging fruit)
• Infiltrate where you can (where outwash is accessible)
• Detain and treat
• Consider a basin -specific redevelopment standard
He displayed a Peak Flow Duration Curve — Talbot Road that illustrated peak flow duration under the
existing and retrofitted conditions. He displayed and reviewed a table illustrating flood risk in current
conditions, under retrofitted conditions and the reduction in peak in years 2-100.
Mr. Schaefer advised the study includes 12 recommendations. He highlighted the projects for which pre -
design was prepared:
• Seaview Park
o Most effective project to reduce damaging flows in Creek
o Intercepts runoff from over 50 acres of roadways and residences
o Similar to facility installed in Hickman Park
o Detention and infiltration
o 120' x 60' under lawn
o 7 -foot diameter tanks
o Provides water quality treatment before infiltration to outwash
0 30% design, opportunity to refine
o Sized to focus on certain storm events, can be configured to focus on more frequent store
events
o Estimated performance under existing conditions and with proposed facility
o Project cost estimate: $845,000 (possibly less)
74`" Avenue W
o Located in Lynnwood
o Collects runoff from 28 acres of streets and residential
o Detention located below a portion of street and east shoulder
0 6 -foot diameter tanks
0 150 x 15'
o Soils do not allow infiltration
o Baffles trap sediments near tank inlet
o Performance under existing conditions and with proposed facility
o Project cost estimate: $445,000
He described opportunities to optimize existing facilities (low hanging fruit):
• Lynndale Park/Olympic View Drive Infiltration (Lynnwood)
• Blue Ridge Detention Pond (Lynnwood)
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0 Cost: $22,000 each
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis asked how Edmonds could get Lynnwood to do the three projects. Mr. Shuster
answered Lynnwood has been a partner since the beginning; they come to a lot of the meetings and have
provided data. One of Lynnwood's staff expressed their willing to do the inexpensive project more
maintenance fixes themselves with their funds. For example, raising the outlet to the stormwater ponds to
provide additional storage. The other projects will be more difficult to accomplish because there are no
flooding, sedimentation or water quality issues in Lynnwood. Lynnwood is beginning an update of their
Stormwater Comprehensive Plan so there is opportunity to influence that plan. Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis
asked about the possibility of an interlocal agreement. Mr. Shuster agreed that was possible. He noted
60% of the watershed was located in Lynnwood; there may be other issues on which Lynnwood needs
Edmonds' help.
Council President Pro Tem Johnson recalled when the City was doing the Talbot Road project there was a
bypass pipe proposed for this area. This is much better because it considers more natural systems, use of
right-of-way and parkland. She asked what could be done to improve Brown's Bay and the outfall pipe
above Talbot Road once these improvements were complete. Mr. Shuster referred to the executive
summary of the full report that refers to improving habitat from Brown Bay to Talbot Road. That is all
private property and nothing can be done without the have cooperation of the property owners. Reducing
stormwater and corrosive flows in the creek is a first step. Mr. Schaefer agreed, explaining until stable
conditions are created, any habitat improvements made downstream would either be blown out or buried.
Councilmember Mesaros observed there were 12 project recommendations. He asked how staff would
prioritize the list. Mr. Shuster answered the first would be Seaview Park because it is relatively easy to
implement because the City owns the park. He submitted a grant application to the Department of
Ecology for 75% of the cost to complete design and construct the project. Next would be three projects in
Lynnwood that modify ponds which are relatively inexpensive and would produce a good result. The
report presents a strategy/plan with 12 projects that will have the best impact. The current draft Capital
Improvement Plan includes funds in the next six years to implement the plan.
Councilmember Petso asked whether meaningful environmental or flood prevention could be
accomplished in other areas of the City using this approach. Mr. Shuster answered yes and asked if she
had a particular area in mind. Councilmember Petso suggested Shell Creek, noting there were other areas
that potentially could benefit from the concept of using right-of-way and/or parkland for
detention/infiltration facilities. Mr. Shuster agreed parks and other publicly owned lands are ideal for
detention/infiltration.
Councilmember Petso asked whether there were locations where it would be beneficial to acquire
additional land for such a facility. Mr. Shuster answered the most beneficial would be acquiring land that
has a creek running through it and restore it. Councilmember Petso asked whether any of these techniques
would be helpful in Lake Ballinger. Mr. Shuster answered the Lake Ballinger Watershed is much larger
but it probably could.
8. DISCUSSION REGARDING A DIVERSITY COMMISSION
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis thanked Tere Rider for providing information from Lynnwood. The packet
contains a chart comparing Diversity Commissions in different cities, Lynnwood's ordinance and a
resolution the Council previously considered or possibly approved. She favored the language in
Lynnwood's ordinance and having nine members such as Kent, Federal Way and Lynnwood.
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Councilmember Mesaros agreed this was a project that needed to move forward. Although it was helpful
to see examples from other cities, he said Edmonds should have been a leader in this matter. A Diversity
Commission will be beneficial for Edmonds and will help the City's richness grow.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked what further direction was needed if the Council already passed a
resolution to create a Diversity commission. City Attorney Jeff Taraday advised an ordinance is necessary
to create a Diversity Commission; it would be codified in Title 10 along with other boards and
commissions.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
MESAROS, TO DRAFT AN ORDINANCE CREATING A DIVERSITY COMMISSION.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis recalled the resolution was referred to a Council committee for review. Mr.
Taraday suggested the Council provide specifics regarding the number of commissioners, etc. Absent that
direction he would model the ordinance based on other commissions and the Council could amend it.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas suggested each Councilmember appoint a commissioner. Mr. Taraday
asked about mayoral appointments.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis suggested staggered 3 year terms.
Councilmember Bloom preferred to have more than seven commissioners. To achieve the appropriate
balance, she suggested the Council as a whole review the applications, interview and select members. If
each Councilmember chooses a member, there may not be an appropriate balance.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented Councilmembers all have different backgrounds, history and
experience; features that were important to one Councilmember may not be as important to another.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis suggested 11 members, each Councilmember appoint 1 and the Council select
the remainder as a group.
Councilmember Mesaros suggested each Councilmember appoint one member and the Mayor provide
recommendations for four that the Council then confirms.
Council President Pro Tem Johnson recommended identifying the responsibilities, their mission and what
the Council wants to accomplished before the commission is formed. When a Diversity Commission was
discussed in 2011, there were two ideas, focus on high school students and focus on the community at
large. Another option would be to allow the commission to develop their own charger, goals and
accomplishments.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas suggested at least two Councilmembers participate in the Diversity
Commission at least initially.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis referred to Lynnwood's mission for the commission that includes the annual
Martin Luther King celebrations, stand against racism, host biannual educational forums, sponsor
community events, multicultural events, advise the mayor and city council and outreach to the
community. Federal Way and Kent's ordinances also identify the commission's responsibilities. She
asked whether the mission statement would be developed by the commission. Mr. Taraday answered it
depends on how the Council wants to set it up. The Council could create and appoint the commission and
task them with developing goals and objectives for review and approval by the City Council.
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Councilmember Mesaros referred to Section 2.58.020 in Lynnwood's Diversity Commission ordinance
that describes the duties of the commission: the commission is hereby declared to be an advisory body of
the city of Lynnwood whose duties shall be to monitor demographics trends in our city and to identify
and recommend to the mayor and city council ways to encourage mutual understanding among our
citizens about the increasing demographic diversity of our city through, but not limited to three items. He
suggested this was starting description and provided a framework to do more. He suggested using the
description of duties in Lynnwood's ordinance.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented there was also some good information in Snohomish County
and the State's regulations regarding Diversity Commissions.
Councilmember Mesaros suggested the members of the former Personnel Committee work with Mr.
Taraday on an ordinance regarding a Diversity Commission. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas pointed out
one of the members would be leaving the Council soon.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis noted some ordinances refer to nine members appointed by the City Council.
She asked whether the Council wanted to appoint all the members or allow the Mayor to make some
appointments.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas suggested discussing the number of members, appointments, etc. at a
study session. Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis suggested that be done tonight as there was time on the agenda.
Councilmember Mesaros suggested combining Councilmember Bloom's suggestion for the Council to
appoint some of the members as a group to ensure a balance and Councilmember Fraley-Monillas'
suggestion for each Councilmember to appoint one member to create a broader state of inclusion. He
suggested the members the Council appoints as a group be recommended by the Mayor.
Councilmember Petso inquired about staff support for the Diversity Commission. Ms. Hite relayed in
discussions with Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis and Councilmember Peterson she offered to help figure out
the commission. She was uncertain the Parks Department had the capacity to staff the commission. She
recommended the Council discuss how the commission could be staffed and supported and suggested a
budget be established if the Council intended to have the commission hold events/celebrations. She
suggested forming a task force of citizens who spoke in support of a Diversity Commission to assist with
forming a commission.
Council President Pro Tem Johnson supported the idea of a task force to allow community members who
spoke in favor of a Diversity Commission to present a proposal to the Council within six months. Council
President Buckshnis hoped that could be accomplished sooner than six months.
Councilmember Bloom agreed with the idea of task force, suggesting it not be limited only to the people
who spoke tonight but also include others in the community. She agreed with identifying funds for a
minute taker, for events, etc. She recalled not having dedicated staff support was one of the early
problems with the Tree Board.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis asked who would be in charge of the task force. Ms. Hite said she would be
happy to assist. Councilmember Petso and Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis offered to assist with the task force.
Council President Pro Tem Johnson referred to a $20,000 budget proposal for board and commission
support.
Councilmember Mesaros suggested deferring further action until after the task force presents a proposal.
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If the Council favors the task force concept and Ms. Hite is tasked with overseeing that process, Mr.
Taraday suggested letting the task force do its work and make a recommendation to the Council regarding
an ordinance rather than adopting an ordinance first.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS WITHDREW HER MOTION WITH THE
AGREEMENT OF THE SECOND.
Ms. Hite requested the Council discuss the formation of the task force. In addition to Councilmember
Petso and Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis, she noted Councilmember Peterson has also expressed interest in
the Diversity Commission.
Councilmember Mesaros suggested the Council delegate the composition of the task force to the
interested Councilmembers and Ms. Hite.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis summarized the Councilmembers and Ms. Hite will put together a task force
and return to the Council with a recommendation.
Council President Pro Tem Johnson asked whether the traditional method would be used to seek task
force members such as advertising and candidates submit applications for review. Mayor Pro Tem
Buckshnis suggested the task force be similar to the Metropolitan Park District where citizens were
invited to participate. Ms. Hite explained applications were not sought for the Metropolitan Park District;
a press release was issued as well as targeted recruitment and everyone was welcome to participate. She
suggested a concentrated effort so there would be 8-10 people who could do efficient work and bring
perspective to the table in creating the commission. She envisioned a brief application process;
Councilmembers Petso, Buckshnis and Peterson could vet those and bring their selection to the Council to
begin the task force.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented creating a task force would necessitate reaching people for
whom English may not be their first language and a notice in the Beacon or online would likely miss a lot
of people. She suggested assembling a handful of people on the task force who are active and engaged
such as people who attended the rally or who were in the audience tonight. The City could then advertise
to reach people with different backgrounds for the commission.
Ms. Hite suggested Councilmembers Petso Buckshnis and Peterson and she draft a process for the task
force and make a recommendation to Council.
9. DISCUSSION REGARDING STUDY SESSIONS
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis relayed she has been working on the study session format; a number of issues
have arisen that need to be addressed including the microphones, uncomfortable chairs and the
configuration of the tables. She invited Council input on how study sessions could be improved.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas said although she likes the study session format, she does not care for
the logistics and there are a lot of bugs that need to be worked out. She liked the freer, more open process
and less formal format where Councilmembers can see each other and the screen. She noted there was
value in having study sessions but she was not entirely satisfied with the format as someone always had
their back to the audience or the screen.
Councilmember Petso liked the less formal discussions and felt the workshop sessions were great. She
suggested the Council consider Councilmember Mesaros' idea about retaining committees on the second
Tuesday, a study session on the fourth Tuesday and if necessary a study session following the committee
meetings on the second Tuesday regarding bigger issues. She noted tonight the Council spent a great deal
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Page 15
of time on the authorization to hire someone to do the development code update which Councilmember
Bloom had less than four days to review, it was not routine, did not go through committee and the public
had limited information. She suggested it may be the best of both worlds if the Council returned to
committees and study sessions; the routine items could be reviewed by committee and then scheduled on
Consent Agenda and the Council can meet together to discuss bigger issues.
Councilmember Mesaros agreed with Councilmember Petso, suggesting a study sessions on the fourth
Tuesday and 11/2 hour committee meetings on the second Tuesday followed by a study session for larger
topics. Committee meetings could start at 6:00 p.m. with the study session beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Councilmember Bloom recalled the Parks, Planning & Public Works Committee had a large number of
items, the Public Safety & Personnel Committee had the fewest and the Finance Committee was
somewhere in between. She suggested moving Parks into the Public Safety & Personnel Committee. That
would also allow Ms. Hite to present more topics to one committee. Ms. Hite commented Parks also
works with Engineering on capital project management which could present a logistics issue but she
would support it as an option.
For Councilmember Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember Bloom clarified there would still be three
committees meeting in separate rooms, Planning & Public Works; Public Safety, Parks & Personnel and
Finance. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented the taped study sessions are more transparent; the
only way for citizens to learn what happens in a committee meeting is to attend the meeting. She was
concerned the Council would end up in same situation where the committee meetings were not
transparent, topics were discussed repeatedly at the committee level before being forwarded to the
Council and then the same questions were asked by the full Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis agreed with Councilmember Fraley-Monillas. She relayed it was doubtful the
Council could get to the point of two study sessions and two business meetings per month; it was more
likely there would be one study session per month. She liked the committees but felt it better to have the
items discussed by the Council as a whole and in front of the cameras. She suggested the Council
continue with the study sessions a little longer; many citizens like the opportunity to see all the
discussions on TV.
Councilmember Petso envisioned transparency would be improved by returning to the committee
structure for certain items. For example when the committee structure was in place, the Finance Director
on tape reviewed the monthly and quarterly Financial Reports while several citizens watched before it
was placed on the Consent Agenda. In the recent months, the Financial Report has been approved on the
Consent Agenda, the TV audience does not hear any discussion and there is no presentation from the
Finance Director. Because the Finance Reports are part of a larger agenda, she questioned how much time
Councilmembers had to devote to the reports. Conversely if it was on the Finance Committee's agenda,
the Councilmembers assigned to that committee had an opportunity to talk to the Finance Director and
could schedule it on the Consent Agenda with additional information or the full Council. She summarized
Councilmembers have an opportunity to look at items in more detail if they are only reviewing one third
of the items.
Councilmember Bloom commented she has been spending more time reviewing Council packets. For
example, two items were pulled from tonight's Consent Agenda. The item she pulled needed further
discussion. If the committee structure had been in place, that item would have been reviewed by the
Parks, Planning & Public Works Committee. Without the committee structure, there is no screening of
items. The committees also allowed citizens to listen and be involved on a more personal level that cannot
occur at Council meetings; the committee meetings are taped and detailed minutes are taken of all
committee meetings. She summarized Council meetings have been much more stressful and much longer
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with the new structure. Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis commented the longer Council meetings are also due
to it being the end of the year. Councilmember Bloom said Councilmembers are actually spending more
time because committees are not spending dedicated time screening items and passing it on to the
Council.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas remarked the study session format had only been tried for a couple of
months, acknowledging there were some bugs to work out. In the previous committee structure, 2-3
citizens had the opportunity to ask questions in the Finance Committee or hear what was going on. The
Finance Director could make a presentation to the full Council regarding the Financial Report so the
Council and all citizens have an opportunity to hear that information. She summarized it was more
transparent to have everything televised versus done in committee.
Council President Pro Tem Johnson commented there is an advantage to having directors directly speak
to Councilmembers. If Councilmembers were provided the presentations in the packet or hardcopy they
would not need to turn to look at the screen. The study sessions provide an opportunity for
Councilmembers to talk in a less formal environment. She preferred continuing the study session format
into the new year and discuss any possible changes at the Council retreat in February. She noted there was
not enough time to change the format before the end of the year as the Council needed to complete review
and adoption of the budget and the CIP/CFP. This was the way that most cities conduct their business and
lacking a separate room, this was the best the Council could do for now.
Councilmember Mesaros commented tonight was a good example of the reason for committees. It would
have been preferable to refer the formation of the Diversity Committee to a committee to work with Ms.
Hite. He summarized the committees make the work of the Council more efficient and it is still an open
process.
Councilmember Petso observed a motion to reestablish committees tonight likely would fail with a 3-3
vote. She hoped the Council would reestablish the committee structure in the future and that the practice
of scheduling items the Council has not seen before on the Consent Agenda would cease. She noted
Consent Agenda Item C, Authorization for the Mayor to Sign the Agreement to Provide Swim Lessons to
Third Grade Students, was an example of an item that would have previously been reviewed by
committee. Staff would have given a presentation and responded to questions such as the City's liability.
If the committee structure is not reestablished, she recommended items be reviewed at a study session
prior to scheduling them on the Consent Agenda.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis commented at the end of year there are many items that take a lot of time. In
the future Mr. James will be making a presentation on the financial reports.
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM,
COMMENCING IN JANUARY THE SECOND TUESDAY BE A COMBINED
COMMITTEE/STUDY SESSION NIGHT.
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS CALLED FOR THE QUESTION. DIED FOR LACK OF A
SECOND.
Councilmember Bloom commented the study session format has not worked and no amount of trial
period will make it work. There are things on the Consent Agenda that have not been reviewed and extra
time is required to review information in the Council packet. When the committees were in place, she
trusted Councilmembers to review items. She preferred to return to the committee structure where there
was more review and deliberation. Another possibility would be to have one committee meeting
videotaped each month.
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December 2, 2014
Page 17
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis commented she preferred to continue the study session format into the new
year, remarking the last three months have not been typical due to the budget, the CIP/CFP and the end of
the year. To Councilmember Petso, she pointed out the agreement to provide swim lessons is a renewal of
an existing program.
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS-MONILLAS CALLED FOR THE QUESTION
MOVED, SECONDED BY MESAROS. MOTION FAILED (3-3), MAYOR PRO TEM BUCKSHNIS
AND COUNCILMEMBERS FRALEY-MONILLAS AND MESAROS VOTING YES; AND
COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND PETSO AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO TEM
JOHNSON VOTING NO.
If the Council is not prepared to take action on an item on the Consent Agenda, Council President Pro
Tem Johnson suggested an option would be to postpone it to a study session the following week. She tries
to read everything regardless of whether it was in her committee so she did not feel the committees were a
time saver. It was to her benefit to hear what everyone has to say about an agenda item.
Councilmember Bloom referred to Council President Pro Tem Johnson's suggestion and said she tried to
do that tonight, to get the Council to delay a decision on the code rewrite and it failed. That is not a
reasonable suggestion if Councilmembers will not support a request for a delay.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas suggested it may have been the way the request was made; if
Councilmember Bloom had requested it be postponed to next week, it may have been approved.
UPON ROLL CALL FAILED (3-3) COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM, MESAROS AND PETSO
VOTING YES; AND MAYOR PRO TEM BUCKSHNIS, COUNCIL PRESIDENT PRO TEM
JOHNSON AND COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING NO.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas inquired about the procedure for a motion to reconsider. Mr. Taraday
advised approval of a motion to reconsider requires a majority vote.
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
DEFER AWARD OF THE CONTRACT TO MAKERS FOR THE CODE REWRITE UNTIL A
STUDY SESSION.
Mr. Taraday explained a motion to reconsider must be made by someone on the prevailing side.
Councilmember Petso questioned that advice and requested a brief recess to research it.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis declared a brief recess.
Councilmember Petso relayed Mr. Taraday was correct and she could not make a motion to reconsider as
she voted against the original motion.
COUNCILMEMBER PETSO WITHDREW HER MOTION WITH THE AGREEMENT OF THE
SECOND.
10. MAYOR'S COMMENTS — None
11. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Student Representative Eslami remarked the Council's discussion tonight was fun to watch.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas reported her son, adopted daughter and she had a great time at the tree
lighting ceremony although it was very cold.
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December 2, 2014
Page 18
Councilmember Mesaros reported he gave the greeting at the tree lighting ceremony on behalf of the City.
The event was fun and attended by approximately 1,500 people. He relayed Councilmember Peterson was
also at the tree lighting ceremony.
Council President Pro Tem Johnson reported she enjoyed the tree lighting ceremony.
Councilmember Petso reported the Edmonds Public Facilities District and Edmonds Center for the Arts
Boards are having a joint retreat. Further information can be obtained by contacting the ECA's Executive
Director Joe McIalwain.
Mayor Pro Tem Buckshnis commented it was warmer in Green Bay than in Edmonds. She announced
Councilmember Peterson's last day will be January 6, 2015. She was sad to see him go. A process to
select a new Councilmember will begin soon.
12. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION
PER RCW 42.30.110 i i
This item was not needed.
13. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING IN
EXECUTIVE SESSION
This item was not needed.
14. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
DA lb O. EARLING, AYOR
SC PASSEY ITY ERIC
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