Cmd042820EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL
VIRTUAL ONLINE MEETING
APPROVED MINUTES
April 28, 2020
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Mike Nelson, Mayor
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Council President
Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember
Luke Distelhorst, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
Vivian Olson, Councilmember
Susan Paine, Councilmember
Laura Johnson, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Zach Bauder, Student Representative
1. CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE
STAFF PRESENT
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Patrick Doherty, Econ. Dev & Comm. Serv. Dir.
Shane Hope, Development Services Director
Scott James, Finance Director
Jessica Neill Hoyson, HR Director
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Scott Passey, City Clerk
The Edmonds City Council virtual online meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Nelson. The
meeting was opened with the flag salute.
2. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Council President Fraley-Monillas read the City Council Land Acknowledge Statement: "We acknowledge
the original inhabitants of this place, the Sdohobsh (Snohomish) people and their successors the Tulalip
Tribes, who since time immemorial have hunted, fished, gathered, and taken care of these lands. We respect
their sovereignty, their right to self-determination, and we honor their sacred spiritual connection with the
land and water."
3. ROLL CALL
City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present, participating remotely.
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER OLSON, TO
APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS SUBMITTED TO PU BLICCOM M ENTAEDM ON DSWA.GOV)
See Attached.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 1
6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
DISTELHORST, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows:
1. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF APRIL 21, 2020
2. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS AND WIRE PAYMENT
3. AMENDMENT 43 EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT COUNCIL
LEGISLATIVE/EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
7. ACTION ITEMS
1. EDMONDS PUBLIC FACILITIES DISTRICT SMALL BUSINESS LOAN REQUEST
Finance Director Scott James explained the purpose of this item is to seek Council's consent for the
Edmonds Public Facilities District (PFD) to accept a loan. He explained the PFD is the legal entity that
oversees the Edmonds Center for the Arts (ECA). The ECA is a non-profit arm of the PFD that is
responsible for managing the facility. The ECA schedules artists from around the world, provides
production management and a venue for a variety of community partners and rental clients and serves more
than 75,000 patrons annually. Bringing people together is the ECA's primary means of generating revenues
which is being substantially impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. The ECA is endeavoring to find alternative
funding sources and ways to trim expenses. For example, the ECA asked patrons to donate ticket purchases
instead of refunding which many community members have done.
Another viable funding source the PFD would like to pursue requires Council consent. This funding is from
the Small Business Administration (SBA) in the form of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The PPP
starts as a loan to all applicants and can turn into a grant by the SBA if applicants use at least 75% of the
loan proceeds to pay personnel costs. The PFD plans to use all the loan proceeds to pay personnel costs.
Before the PFD can accept the loan, Council must provide consent due to the Contingent Loan Agreement
(CLA) with the PFD. The CLA was included with the PFD's 2008 bond issuance; the CLA amounts to a
bond debt service payment guarantee for the City and bond holders. The CLA states the following: "So
long as the Note remains outstanding and this Agreement remains in effect, the District shall not incur any
additional indebtedness, other than in the ordinary course of business, without the prior written consent of
the City..." According to the conditions of the CLA, Council must provide written consent for the District
to accept the PPP loan. If the Council approves the request tonight, written consent can be captured in the
meeting minutes.
Councilmember Buckshnis thanked Mr. James for answering all her questions in his presentation.
Councilmember Olson agreed the packet was very complete and she felt well prepared to take a vote.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PAINE, TO
APPROVE THE PFD'S REQUEST TO ACCEPT A PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
LOAN FROM THE SBA.
Councilmember Paine was glad this being made available to the PFD.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
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April 28, 2020
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2. ORDINANCE FOR HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE FUND TRANSFER TO MITIGATE
COVID-19 IMPACTS
Development Services Director Shane Hope commented COVID-19 has impacts on everyone and those
who are financially vulnerable feel the impacts even more, particularly people with lower incomes who,
due to COVID-19, lost hours at work or lost their jobs temporarily or longer term and may have higher
costs such as childcare. The thought behind the program was to recognize there is some funding available
from the Homelessness Response Fund that could be reprogrammed to help lower income residents to retain
their homes and take care of basic needs due to lost income during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Ms. Hope explained while it would have been great if the human services manager had been hired to help
administer the program, there are ways to handle such a program to help Edmonds residents. The idea is
Economic Development/Community Services Director Patrick Doherty and she would provide direction to
and oversight for administrative staff and work with local social service agencies who are already familiar
with Edmonds, Snohomish County and residents in Edmonds and could do outreach to those community
members. The assistance would be available for people who, 1) are in a lower income category, 2) live in
Edmonds, and 3) are financially impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. Those residents could receive up to
$1000 in aid. Social service agencies have indicated rent and food are the biggest need.
In order to make this happen effectively, Ms. Hope suggested doing something similar to an RFQ that
would allow existing social service agencies who are experienced in Snohomish County to indicate how
they would be able to implement a program, how they would meet the criteria, and be able to effectively
and efficiently provide resources. This is not resources on a cash basis, although cash would be provided
to the social service agency, the agency would administer it in kind. For example if a household needs
money to pay rent, the agency will provide they money directly to the landlord. If a household needs money
for utilities, the money will be provided directly to the utility. The City will not be giving out cash.
Ms. Hope anticipated it would take about a month to get the program up and running. The intent is for this
to be a relatively short-term program. She acknowledged there were other programs that provide funding
assistance, but it is generally not enough, particularly when a household has had a significant financial
impact from COVID-19. This would be a boost to local residents who are impacted even though it is not a
lot of money, a maximum of $1000 per household. Through the end of the period, currently proposed to be
through August 30, agencies will track information about each household such as income level, location,
COVID-19 issues that created the need, what the funds were provided for, amount of money provided,
nature of the impact, household size, etc. and reported back to the City Council. The ordinance calls for
report to be provided one month after the program funding ends.
Councilmember Distelhorst commented the recommendations in the Koenig Homelessness Assessment,
delivered to Council in February 2019 and funded via the Homelessness Response Fund, were to focus on
homelessness prevention so it did not reach the level it has in other Puget Sound communities, prevent
homelessness through cost-effective approaches that are a better use of fund than providing housing after a
person has become homeless, and experiment with providing contracts to community -based organizations
such as the proposed ordinance would do so that the organizations' existing procedures and screening could
be utilized to best effect.
Councilmember Olson referred to the RFQ and asked if the City would ultimately be entering into a contract
with one or more of the agencies. If the goal was to help at least 100 families and possibly more if some
need less than $1000, she questioned how the City could ensure benefits from multiple agencies were not
being provided to the same parties. She anticipated privacy issues would prevent full disclosure of who
receives the funds. Ms. Hope advised some coordination would need to be worked out; she anticipated 2-3
agencies would be involved. The City's expectations include not duplicating efforts, and requirements
would be outlined in the contract.
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Council President Fraley-Monillas wanted to ensure the funds were to people physically located in
Edmonds and not to residents of Esperance. Ms. Hope responded the ordinance states residents of Edmonds
which does not mean Esperance. Council President Fraley-Monillas pointed out Esperance residents have
an Edmonds address. Ms. Hope clarified recipients would need to live within the city limits. Council
President Fraley-Monillas suggested clarifying that. She referred to a newspaper article that referenced the
City giving cash up to $1000; she recommended clarifying that the assistance provided would not be in the
form of cash. Ms. Hope agreed, it would not be in the cash, but in -kind value up to $1000 for food, rent or
other allowable needs, paid to the entity not cash. For example, if the need was groceries, they would receive
a grocery card for X dollar amount.
Council President Fraley-Monillas relayed she met with a legislator over the weekend who indicated the
Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) has a large amount of federal and state money to provide
assistance for this same thing. She requested there be a requirement that people go through the State of
Washington and DSHS before dipping into this fund. She was told DSHS has $50M in federal funds and
$50M in local funds. She concluded the City's funds are not sustainable; once it's gone, it's gone.
Councilmember Paine asked about the availability of service providers who knew Edmonds well and
whether there was a service provider in Edmonds that could provide outreach and be available to everyone
in the community including people vulnerable to becoming homeless and seniors who may/may not be
good about asking of help. Ms. Hope answered she knew of at least two, the YWCA provides services in
Edmonds, they are a familiar organization and well established; and Washington Kids in Transition also
provides services to families and are very familiar with Edmonds and already serve these needs. She spoke
with Verdant about other possibilities and they indicated those were the two best but could help coordinate
with other agencies. One of the criteria in the RFQ will be experience in Edmonds, social security agencies
who have worked in Edmonds and know the paths. These agencies already know how to provide these
services and already have a caseload of people living in Edmonds. Councilmember Paine wanted to ensure
there were good pathways to all the vulnerable communities to ensure a group was not overlooked.
Councilmember Paine observed the draft ordinance was specific about the types of services that would be
available for funding. She was hopeful it would include things like cable and cell phones because that is
how people have access to other services, the community, and their support systems. Ms. Hope said that is
not excluded; she agreed students need to have access for schoolwork; Washington Kids in Transition has
mentioned that is often a family need. She summarized rent tends to be the most important but other needs
could possibly be funded.
Councilmember Olson referred to Council President Fraley-Monillas' comment regarding Esperance,
noting service providers may not know the difference if they are providing funds strictly based on address.
With regard to low income parameters, she agreed with Council President Fraley-Monillas' comment about
ensuring other opportunities for aid are utilized before seeking funds from this source. She recommended
considering those other funding sources as income in determining whether they meet the income threshold.
She summarized there is an enormous financial crisis due to COVID-19 and the role of government is to
respond to national emergencies and therefore this is an appropriate item for the Council to consider.
Councilmember L. Johnson voiced her support for the two organizations Ms. Hope mentioned, YWCA and
Washington Kids in Transition, specifically because their focus is on families and families are impacted in
additional ways with school closures. She encouraged staff to look at both those organizations. She was
interested in strengthening the oversight and accountability and will make an amendment once a motion is
made. She thanked Ms. Hope and Councilmember Distelhorst for their work on this.
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Council President Fraley-Monillas suggested it would be appropriate to reach out to DSHS to determine
other agencies. While YWCA and Washington Kids in Transition are good for kids and families, they do
not have specific resources for seniors, the disabled or veterans. She wanted to ensure the funds were
available to anyone that needs assistance, not just children and families. Washington Kids in Transition is
focused on children in the school district and their families and YWCA also has more of a children/family
focus. She encouraged staff to reach out to DSHS regarding agencies that serve a fuller contingency of
people that may need assistance.
Councilmember Buckshnis thanked Ms. Hope for answering the questions she sent to her. She was looking
at this more globally and believed that $100,000 was not enough; there is $200,000+ in the fund. She agreed
with having more stringent parameters and accountability. There are 4,450 Edmonds residents or over 10%
of the population in this group and it is unknown how many have been impacted by COVID-19. If the
budget for this is $100,000, that will serve 100 families; she questioned what happens to the remainder. If
the City is going to do this, it should be done right such as on a first -come first -serve basis with no level of
favoritism. If the Council believes in this, which they did in 2017 when these funds were allocated, they
should consider how many families in Edmonds would be impacted and attempt to provide financial
assistance to those who need it. She believed in the concept, but wanted more information.
Councilmember Buckshnis relayed a lot of residents are concerned this is a gift of public funds. This is an
unprecedented financial time when the rich are getting richer and the poor and the middle class are getting
poorer. She recommended looking out for all of Edmonds and found it heartbreaking that funds would only
be provided to 100. She concluded there is $223,000 in the fund. Ms. Hope said it was up to the Council to
determine the appropriate amount; the account has $225,000 remaining. The downside of spending more is
some Councilmembers want to see how it goes and have options to consider later, whether that is to continue
this program or for other needs the City has. She summarized there was no way the City could provide for
all the needs of all citizens, some funds are better than none and it should be done in the fairest way possible.
Councilmember Distelhorst commented there was no limitation on possibly authorizing more funds in the
future if that need is seen after the initial stages of the program.
Councilmember K. Johnson raised three questions; first, what are the needs of the current homeless
community during COVID-19? They do not have the same needs as the proposed transfer because they do
not pay rent or utilities, probably do not have cell phones or cable or pay for childcare. They are a very
vulnerable population that is at high risk; their needs may include hand sanitizers, disposable thermometers,
tents, transportation to medical facilities and temporary shelter, etc. If the intent is to prevent people from
becoming homeless, there should be a very tight relationship between what is provided and what the City
is trying to prevent. She suggested considering the model in Tacoma that only provides for supplemental
rent. Since the governor has provided a moratorium on rent increases and evictions, the timing may be
complementary.
Councilmember K. Johnson's second question was what are the needs of the Edmonds community during
COVID-19? All 42,000 residents are effected, but what do they really need? The funding for this may not
come from the homelessness fund, but she questioned whether there was enough PPE, testing, screening,
or gloves. Her final question was what is the appropriate role of local government during COVID-19? As
the attorney general discussed, it is appropriate to help the community, particularly the poor and the use of
police powers to assist people. She was not prepared at this time to pay for cable and was very concerned
about the duplication of services. There are larger funds at the state and federal level that fund a variety of
services and when they consider eligibility, they consider all forms of income. She did not want to eliminate
someone in need from getting state or federal assistance because they received assistance from the City.
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Councilmember K. Johnson said there are many other programs such as unemployment insurance, food
stamps, Aid to Families with Dependent Children, women and infant nutrition programs, the utilities have
their own funds available, etc. She was uncomfortable with allocating $100,000 and deciding what to do
with it and developing restrictions and criteria later. She preferred to have a larger discussion about what
the problem is, what the City is trying to fix, and how to go about doing that.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said the homeless population is being addressed by Snohomish County
who has a place for the homeless who have COVID-19 and need a place to stay. They also have a place for
homeless people to get things like gloves, hand sanitizer, etc. She hated to see this fund cleaned out when
the City will experience financial issues due to decreased sales tax. The City is in the process of hiring a
social worker; one of the goals of the Koenig report was to hire a social worker who could direct people to
services as well as have the ability to write grants. Some of the money in this fund were earmarked by the
small group to be used for things that the new social services person could provide such as matching funds.
She feared cleaning out this account when it was unknown what tomorrow will bring with regard to
finances. The prediction is that beyond COVID-19, there will be 6-9 months when people will be having
issues which was her concern about the sustainability of this funding. She relayed today the governor
extended the stay at home order through the end of May. The search for a social worker is down to two
candidates.
With regard to cable, Councilmember Olson clarified her interest was cable internet not cable TV. Similar
to Councilmember Paine's point, that is as much about access to information and opportunities as it is for
entertainment.
Councilmember Paine asked if Edmonds was in line for any state or federal grant funding and if so, how
much and when would it arrive. She was struggling with not knowing what the City's revenues will look
like between now and the end of year, there is a huge need and there is a wide range of people in very
vulnerable positions. She wanted to ensure people were not put into a more vulnerable situation by not
offering some help. Mayor Nelson answered the governor's office informed him today that Edmonds would
be allocated $1.26M from the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. There is a 10
day hold before it is distributed to the City. Councilmember Paine asked what strings were attached to those
funds. Mayor Nelson answered it must be COVID-19 related and there is a 4-page document that outlines
the requirements. He plans to form a task force and come back to Council with a range of possibilities.
Councilmember Buckshnis thanked Council President Fraley-Monillas for the update. Based on tonight's
conversation and with the new hire on the horizon, she was willing to wait. While she thought the proposal
was a fabulous idea, she wished all the vulnerable population that had been affected by COVID-19 could
be addressed. She concluded the Council needed to think this through more clearly.
Council President Fraley-Monillas suggested proceeding to Councilmember L. Johnson's amendment.
COUNCILMEMBER DISTELHORST MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT
FRALEY-MONILLAS, TO APPROVE ORDINANCE NO. 4186, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
OF EDMONDS, WASHINGTON, TO AUTHORIZE TRANSFER OF UP TO $100,000 FROM THE
CITY'S HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE FUND FOR A SHORT-TERM PROGRAM TO ASSIST
COMMUNITY MEMBERS EXPERIENCING HARDSHIP IN MEETING CERTAIN BASIC
NEEDS DUE TO THE IMPACTS OF COVID-19 AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
COUNCILMEMBER L. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO AMEND SECTION 1 BY ADDING THE FOLLOWING AFTER "QUALIFYING
RESIDENT OF EDMONDS," "FUNDS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED MONTHLY IN $33,000
INCREMENTS AND TO ENSURE THE FUNDS ARE SERVING THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH
THEY ARE INTENDED, MONTHLY REPORTS WILL BE PROVIDED TO COUNCIL
OUTLINING THE ORGANIZATIONS THAT HAVE RECEIVED FUNDING, HOW MANY
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April 28, 2020
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PEOPLE THEY SERVED AND THE SPECIFIC SERVICES PROVIDED." IN SECTION 2, THE
DATE FOR DISBURSEMENT WOULD BE EXTENDED BY ONE MONTH AND IN SECTION 3,
THE DATE FOR REPORTING WOULD BE EXTENDED ONE MONTH AND IN SECTION 3, ADD
"MONTHLY" PRIOR TO "REPORTS."
Council President Fraley-Monillas relayed her understanding the organization would need to report on their
use of the $33,000 and would not automatically get another $33,000. Councilmember L. Johnson said that
was her intent. Staff will be overseeing this and based on what they learn about how the funds are being
used, deciding if it is being used the way the City intended or if things have changed in the meantime and
other organizations should be considered.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked for clarification whether the first increment would be $33,000 to either
Washington Kids in Transition or to Verdant or $33,000 to each. She asked if the $33,000 was just a test
amount for any agency. Councilmember L. Johnson answered that was not for her to determine. Staff has
been working on this and she assumed they would select two to start with. Her intent was not to have the
funds go to one organization one month and another the next month. She expected to proceed as proposed
but incrementally.
Councilmember Olson commented the amendment is a positive change in that it gives more feedback in
terms of moving forward. To those with reservations or concerns about duplication of aid, this will help to
address that.
Mr. Taraday asked for clarification about extending the dates. The version in the packet already includes
dates pushed out one month from the version in the packet two weeks ago. He asked if Councilmember L.
Johnson's intent was to push the dates in tonight's packet out a month or use the dates in tonight's packet.
Councilmember L. Johnson deferred to Ms. Hope, relaying she was responding to a recommendation to
extend the dates and assumed it meant what was currently in the packet. Ms. Hope agreed, explaining early
in the process an earlier date was considered; the dates were then extended a little, but this would extend
the dates an additional month to provide an incremental approach. Councilmember L. Johnson clarified the
date in Section 2 would be September and October in Section 3.
Councilmember Paine liked that the City will be receiving grant funds specific to the COVID-19 response.
She was uncomfortable with the full $100,000 coming from a fund identified for homelessness response
and for human services for the entire population. She suggested proposing a different grant amount and
total amount with the option of backfilling once there is a better idea about options with other money and
to avoid depleting funding for the human services coordinator. She agreed it needed to be done, but she did
not want to deplete the existing fund and suggested a separate response in a couple weeks. She asked
whether that would require a new motion.
Ms. Hope said the proposal is not to deplete the Homelessness Response Fund; the proposal would leave at
least $125,000 in that fund. There are additional funds budgeted for the social services position so the
remaining funds could be used to address other homelessness issues as needed. Councilmember Paine
anticipated a lot of the need for human services in the future will be COVID-19 related. The existing need
for this position has increased due to this health emergency.
Councilmember Buckshnis agreed with Councilmember Paine. She said it sounds like a new department is
being created pending hiring of the new person. She asked how labor intensive it will be to distribute fund
monthly and whether enough information will be received during the month to disburse another $33,000.
Ms. Hope answered she did not know because this has never been done before. That was one of the reasons
staff recommends working with agencies who are already familiar with Edmonds and these types of
services. As soon as a person is hired, they would assist with administering this program. Councilmember
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Buckshnis relayed her understanding as soon as the human services person is hired, they will take this over.
Ms. Hope agreed.
To Councilmember Paine's comment about a phrased approach, Councilmember Distelhorst said
Councilmember L. Johnson's amendment does that by breaking it up into monthly amounts to ensure not
all of the $100,000 is allocated immediately. A phased approach allows for assessment and to ensure it is
going to the right people and helping those that the program intends.
Council President Fraley-Monillas expressed support for Councilmember L. Johnson's amendment,
commenting it was a great place to start and the money can be divided up to serve the most people. She
wished the City could serve the 4,000, but there is not enough money. DSHS and the services they provide
should supplement what the City is doing. Starting with $33,000 is a great start and allows the City to
measure the effectiveness.
Councilmember Olson said she will also support the amendment and the original budget of $100,000 from
the Homelessness Response Fund. The Council has not been privy to enough information to talk about
funding this from other sources.
Councilmember Paine said she would like to have as much money as possible available in this account. She
liked the phased approach but if other funds became available, the Council should evaluate it. She was not
certain if that was done via the budget amendment process. She wanted to preserve money for the half time
position that is being hired.
AMENDMENT CARRIED (6-0-1), COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON ABSTAINING.
COUNCILMEMBER PAINE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
AMEND THE MOTION TO ADD IN SECTION 2 AFTER THE DATE, "OR UNTIL THE FUND IS
DEPLETED." AND IN SECTION 3 AFTER THE DATE, "OR WITHIN 30 DAYS OF THE FUND
DEPLETION."
Councilmember Olson asked for an explanation. Councilmember Paine answered if the fund is depleted
earlier than the dates in the ordinance, the amendment would recognize that and a report would be provided
sooner. Ms. Hope commented the amendment would also recognize it may take a longer to get the program
set up.
Councilmember Olson said if the intent is only about the money being depleted sooner, the ordinance as
written adequately reflects that. Councilmember Paine said it was intended to address if the funds were
depleted before the date. Councilmember Olson commented there could still be the authority, but if there
was no money available, it could not be distributed.
COUNCILMEMBER PAINE WITHDREW HER MOTION.
Councilmember L. Johnson explained she extended the date in Section 2 to reflect that the funds would be
divided into three monthly installments. It is possible if the program got up and running sooner than later
so that funds were disbursed in May, June and July, Councilmember Paine's suggestion of adding to Section
3 would make sense because it clarifies the final report is to be provided within 30 days and not allowing
until October for the report to be provided.
Councilmember K. Johnson expressed support for helping people not become homeless as it is more cost
effective to keep someone in their home than to try to find homes for the homeless. She did not believe the
Council had enough information or enough money or a clear enough path for this program. She concluded
the Council was not quite there tonight.
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Councilmember Buckshnis asked if administrative costs would be part of the $33,000, whether those were
part of the $100,000 or would be a different expense under consultants. Ms. Hope said it was assumed this
would be a pass through. If that became an issue, it would come back to Council. The agencies staff has
talked with have not brought that up. They have staff in place and a lot of need and are eager to provide
help with these funds. Councilmember Buckshnis said she was on fence, fearing this was creating a new
department for Ms. Hope. She preferred to address all citizens, and agreed with Councilmember K. Johnson
that there is not have enough data.
Councilmember Distelhorst said one data point that can be seen on a regular basis is the unemployment
figures for Snohomish County which are now more than double the great recession. Initial unemployment
insurance claims now total 100,000 for Snohomish County compared to about 400,000 in the workforce,
or approximately'/4 of the workforce unemployed. The data will be coming, but for many families that may
be too late. The governor's eviction moratorium ends on June 4' and that does not affect the rent or
mortgage payments that people are required to make. His understanding from Ms. Hope is that this program
will take a bit of time to set up, to do the RFQ, to ensure the funds are provided to good agencies that work
in Edmonds and know Edmonds residents and that potentially these funds will help citizens beginning late
May or early June when economic concerns will continue to pile up. The data is there; speaking to these
agencies, it is clear they are receiving increased requests and that will not end any time soon.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED (5-1-1), COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON VOTING
NO; AND COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS ABSTAINING.
3. RESOLUTION REQUESTING MORATORIUM ON HOUSING COSTS RELATED TO
COVID-19
Councilmember Distelhorst relayed the amendments discussed at last week's meeting are reflected in the
updated resolution in the packet in the Whereas clause citing data from Unemployment Security and
amendments from Council President Fraley-Monillas in Section 3.
For Councilmember Paine, Councilmember Distelhorst advised the amendment proposed by Council
President Fraley-Monillas is shown in blue in Section 3. Councilmember Paine commented one amendment
discussed last week was not included that related to encouraging the federal delegation not to overspend
for people who did not need financial support. Councilmember Distelhorst relayed his understanding there
was already a main motion on the floor.
Councilmember K. Johnson commented the motion was tabled at last week's meeting so it needed to be
removed from the table. City Attorney Jeff Taraday said the motion was continued to a date certain not
tabled. The motions pending at the last meeting are still pending. Amendments are appropriate based on the
motion made at the April 21" meeting. The amendments approved on April 21" are reflected in the
resolution in the packet.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DISTELHORST,
TO AMEND THE MOTION IN SECTION I TO REPLACE "HALT" WITH "FREEZE."
AMENDMENT CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO AMEND SECTION 2A BY DROPPING THE REST OF THE SENTENCE THAT
FOLLOWS "THIS HEALTH EMERGENCY" IN THE SECOND TO LAST LINE AND ADDING A
PERIOD AFTER "EMERGENCY" AND TO ADD THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE, "GOVERNOR
INSLEE'S ORDER SHOULD REQUIRE LANDLORDS TO OFFER FORGIVENESS, RENT
MITIGATION, OR MANAGEABLE LONG TERM REPAYMENT TERMS FOR THE RENT
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 9
PAYMENTS MISSED DUE TO COVID-19 IMPACTS DURING THE HEALTH EMERGENCY."
AMENDMENT CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-
MONILLAS TO AMEND SECTION 2B BY DROPPING THE REST OF THE SENTENCE THAT
FOLLOWS "THIS HEALTH EMERGENCY" IN THE SECOND TO LAST LINE AND ADDING A
PERIOD AFTER "EMERGENCY" AND TO ADD THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE, "THE
FEDERAL MORATORIUM SHOULD REQUIRE THAT ANY MORTGAGE PAYMENTS MISSED
DUE TO THE COVID-19 IMPACTS DURING HEALTH EMERGENCY SHALL BE TACKED
ONTO THE BACK OF THE MORTGAGE AFTER THE LAST SCHEDULED PAYMENT."
Councilmember Distelhorst suggested "addressed after the last scheduled payment" rather than "tacked
onto the back of the mortgage after the last scheduled payment." Councilmember Olson agreed.
Councilmember Olson commented it was important that government officials not choose one business or
one person over another. This seems to be the fairest approach that keeps landlords from getting completely
messed up. There is a thought or stereotype that everyone who owns property is a fat cat or trust fund kid,
when in reality property managers are businesses owners just like every other business and choosing tenants
over landlords is unfair. Her intent was to encourage the government to be fair in parlaying the difficulties.
This is only a recommendation, if the government can come up with another fair solution, she would support
that too.
Amendment restated with language suggested by Councilmember Distelhorst and accepted by
Councilmember Olson:
AMEND SECTION 2B BY DROPPING THE REST OF THE SENTENCE FOLLOWING "THIS
HEALTH EMERGENCY" IN THE SECOND TO LAST LINE AND ADDING A PERIOD AFTER
"EMERGENCY" AND TO ADD THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE, "THE FEDERAL
MORATORIUM SHOULD REQUIRE THAT ANY MORTGAGE PAYMENTS MISSED DUE TO
THE COVID-19 IMPACTS DURING HEALTH EMERGENCY SHALL BE ADDRESSED AFTER
THE LAST SCHEDULED PAYMENT." AMENDMENT CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
COUNCILMEMBER PAINE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER OLSON, TO
AMEND SECTION 3, TO READ, "...MORTGAGE INSURANCE, SUCH THAT NO
SUFFICIENTLYIN NEED EDMONDS RESIDENT WHO..."
Councilmember Paine explained her intent was to guide the policy direction to the federal delegation that
people may not have a broad income but have wealth in other assets, it would be appropriate to provide
guidance language that describes sufficiently in need.
AMENDMENT CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
8. STUDY ITEM
COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC RELIEF FUND SUMMARY
Economic Development/Community Services Director Doherty said the packet contains an explanation and
description of the Community and Economic Relief Program, the title was changed from "fund" to
"program." The COVID-19 crisis particularly affects the elderly, infirm, and individuals and households of
lower means who may lack the ability to self -isolate, ready access to health care, food, supplies and other
services.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 10
The COVID-19 crisis has had, and will continue to have, a significant impact on the local, state, and national
economies, impacting the retail, restaurant and other economic sectors and resulting in economic hardship
for small business owners and employees due to loss of business income, layoffs and reduced work hours
for a significant percentage of this workforce. The significant impacts felt by local businesses facing
shutdowns and/or significantly reduced business operations will directly affect City of Edmonds municipal
revenue through lower sales and use taxes, utility taxes and other fees, all of which tangibly will impact
and strain the City's future ability to provide necessary and desired municipal services to the Edmonds
community.
The City's future ability to maintain acceptable levels of service with regard to various municipal services,
including, but not limited to, police, fire, and EMS services, may depend on the extent to which local
businesses are able to survive what is expected to be a temporary, but severely harsh, business environment.
In light of the above -cited reasons, Mr. Doherty explained Mayor Nelson responded quickly and decisively,
to create the Community and Economic Relief Program as an opportunity to offer financial support to
service agencies providing assistance to the elderly, infirm and lower -income residents and households in
our community as well as local businesses in need. Financial support to businesses is provided via a program
offered by the Chamber Foundation's WISH Fund that pairs an Edmonds business in need of service with
another business in Edmonds who provides that service and the WISH Fund provides up to $1000 for the
business providing the service. The program was created with $200,000 from reallocation of monies within
the City's General Fund comprised primarily of savings from departments and foregoing the community
survey budgeted for 2020.
In order to act swiftly, effectively and efficiently, the three existing Edmonds agencies most directly
engaged in providing direct services to the elderly and infirm, lower -income and food -stressed, and/or small
business community were identified as recipients of monies from the Community and Economic Relief
Program and Community and Economic Relief agreements have been executed with the Edmonds Senior
Center, the Edmonds Food Bank and the Edmonds Chamber Foundation through its WISH Fund.
Disbursement of funds pursuant to those agreements will be on the basis of pre -approved categories of
expenses incurred, upon production of invoices with detailed back-up information. The maximum amounts
that may be disbursed to these agencies, pursuant to these agreements and in keeping with the City's
Council -approved Purchasing Policy are, Edmonds Food Bank - $50,000; Edmonds Senior Center -
$50,000; and Edmonds Chamber Foundation - $99,999.99. The Agreement for the Edmonds Chamber
Foundation is for $50,000; they have the opportunity to seek an amendment to the agreement for the
remaining funds.
Mr. Doherty relayed questions have been raised about, 1) the legality of entering into service agreements
that support the infirm, elderly and low-income populations of our city, as well as the small businesses
struggling during the State -ordered period of closure of their establishments; 2) the Mayor's authority to
enter into service agreements with local service agencies to disburse no more than $99,999.99 in City funds
for these purposes; and 3) the Mayor's authority to transfer funds within the City's General Fund to create
the Community and Economic Relief Program. The packet includes the following:
1) State Attorney General's Memo of 4/6/2020 in which he clearly states that use of public funds to
support the poor, infirm and elderly is a "fundamental purpose" of government by "preserving
public health and promoting public welfare." He similarly states that use of public funds to help
stabilize small businesses as they struggle during this State-manded closure is permissible if it can
be shown that it will help "protect the local economy or promote compliance with public health
guidelines" (by enabling them to stay closed).
2) Email memo from City Attorney Jeff Taraday, dated 4/20/2020, in which he reconfirms that the
Mayor has the authority to transfer funds within the City's General Fund, pursuant to RCW
35A.33.120.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 11
3) Email memo from City Attorney Jeff Taraday, dated 4/20/2020, in which he reconfirms that the
City's Purchasing Policy provides the Mayor authority to enter into agreements or contracts for
goods and services in amounts under $100,000.
In conclusion, in response to the severe impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, Mayor Nelson acted swiftly and
fully within his legal authority to transfer funds from within the 2020 General Fund, resulting from savings
achieved in various City departments, to create a Community and Economic Relief Program intended to
provide small grants to help address the public health, safety and welfare of the elderly, infirm and low-
income in Edmonds, as well as local small businesses which are struggling to stay solvent and hope to be
able to open back up in the future.
Mr. Doherty reviewed questions he had received and the response (in italics):
• Confusion over the use of "Fund" in the name. "Fund" has been changed to "Program. "
• Was a fund number created and if so what is the fund number? How will the auditors review
transactions? No fund number was created, a new account was created within the Non -
Departmental budget of the General Fund for Community and Economic Relief Program
expenditures.
• Is a budget amendment necessary and other questions related to the budget overall and how will
the auditor trace movement of the money? A budget amendment is not proposed as it is unnecessary
given the Mayor's authority. A specific account for the program was created to provide a paper
trail for the auditor.
• Why is the Chamber Foundations service contract less than $100,000? The City Council approved
purchasing policy gives the Mayor authority to approve contracts up to $100, 000. In order to avoid
any question whether the action was within his authority, the contract is $0.01 short of $100, 000.
• Where are the contracts? Contracts have been provided to Council.
■ How were the three agencies identified and is their administrative overhead also paid for? In
recognition of the urgency of the crisis and trying to get effective relief out as soon as possible, the
three existing, recognized agencies that deliver services to seniors, low income and food stressed
and small businesses, the Edmonds Food Bank, the Edmonds Senior Center and the Edmonds
Chamber Foundation were selected. This avoided a delay in the response by putting out a call for
agencies only to discover these three were the most appropriate. The contracts state administrative
overhead is not a permissible expense.
Councilmember Paine thanked staff for the report and expressed appreciation for the speed with which this
was put together. Although there was some confusion about fund and program, the fact is this got out there
and she applauded the efforts to move so quickly. She acknowledged there would be no administrative fees
but asked if there would be any data collection. Mr. Doherty answered yes. Councilmember Paine
commented that would be a great way to assess where needs are and potentially identify gaps.
Councilmember Olson referred to an account versus a fund, recalling an earlier item regarding the
Homelessness Response Fund which is also a program or special interest and therefore a fund was
established. She asked if there was anything other than semantics that made this an account rather than a
fund. Mr. Taraday answered the Homelessness Response Fund is actually addressed in the City code and
specifically states money cannot be transferred out of the fund without adoption of an ordinance by the City
Council.
Councilmember Olson said it was her understanding that in terms of the spirit any account or fund, the
RCWs state this should originate with City Council. Mr. Taraday responded the difference is the
Homelessness Response Fund is a separate numbered sub -fund that cannot have transfers in or out without
a Council ordinance. They money that this program is funded with is General Fund money and according
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 12
to the statute included in his email, the Mayor has the authority in the absence of any Council imposed
regulation to move money within the General Fund which this program does.
Councilmember Paine asked whether the agencies would provide anecdotal information about gaps. Mr.
Doherty answered the contract requires a report but did not specify providing information about gaps. He
will ask the agencies to provide that information. The City has already gotten some input, today the
Chamber presented a list of 35 grants they have already given via the WISH Fund. That is not exactly 70
businesses, because there is some repetition where a business may provide services to different clients. At
least 60 businesses have benefitted from the Chamber's WISH Fund. The Food Bank has been able to be
more robust in its response to the increased need; because donations are down, they are buying more food
which requires storage and they purchased a refrigerated truck.
Regarding the funds allocated to help small business through the Chamber Foundation's WISH Fund,
Councilmember L. Johnson asked what outreach will be done to ensure this is available to small businesses
across Edmonds. She understood Chamber members will probably have a heads up, but she assumed it was
available to non -Chamber members. Mr. Doherty answered it is 100% available to all businesses; there is
no requirement be a Chamber member. The City has tried to use available media and can explore more. It
has been covered in both print and digital media as well as Facebook. The Chamber has also put it on their
Facebook and the downtown organizations such as Ed! and DEMA have shared that information. Staff
continues to look at ways to expand that outreach. Councilmember L. Johnson asked him to monitor it and
if he sees a disproportionate number from the downtown core or Chamber members, to reach out to other
business populations. Mr. Doherty agreed.
Councilmember Buckshnis commended Mr. Doherty on his summary and his response to her questions.
She relayed a lot of citizens, 10-15, have contacted her about this. She relayed citizens questions about why
these three were chosen, that the food bank gets a lot of money and it does not serve only Edmonds residents,
and people preferred the money go to a specific Edmonds organization. Mr. Doherty answered the Edmonds
Food Bank is the professional in the room when it comes to distributing food; they have the operation, the
capacity, volunteers, and infrastructure to make it work. He assured the majority of people using the food
bank are from Edmonds. He met with one of the food bank representatives to understand their situation and
it was really dire; donations had nearly ceased entirely, they encountered retail shelves empty of products
they needed and although they had some reserves, they were quickly depleted. It made the most sense to
use the organization with most experience and to do so right away.
Mr. Doherty said for the small business community, the Chamber is the most appropriate organization.
Councilmember Buckshnis said many citizens thought the money should go to the Chamber. Mr. Doherty
said the Chamber is not set up to do food distribution like the food bank is. The Senior Center is the best
organization to address the needs of seniors. The Senior Connect Project provides home delivery for lunch
7 days a week, grocery shopping and delivery, help with exterior home chores (an essential service for the
elderly so they do not attempt to do the work themselves), weekly check in calls, weekly livestream classes,
technical support, phone counseling with a social worker, phone consultation with a registered nurse, and
other resources and referrals. Councilmember Buckshnis said it would have been helpful to have the
contracts in the packet because a lot of people are asking questions.
Councilmember Buckshnis recommended this come through as a budget amendment for transparency. She
relayed her concern with reducing seasonal Parks Department labor, commenting many parks still need the
grass cut and other maintenance. If there is a budget amendment, citizens can see it and talk about it and
the Council may want to revise the budget to put seasonal workers back in. She thanked Mr. Doherty for
the packet and the explanation.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 13
Councilmember Distelhorst asked if the outreach to small businesses had been only in English. Mr. Doherty
said he thought the answer was yes but there were two recently notifications in other languages. He will
look into that. The City has been translating some of the most important notices into five languages such as
the governor's order and availability of small businesses grants. Councilmember Distelhorst thanked Mr.
Doherty and Mayor Nelson for their work on this, important work addressing multiple groups in the
community, and for providing the report, contracts and increased transparency.
Councilmember Paine agreed with Councilmember L. Johnson's comments. She suggested information
provided by the City's business permits may be a way to distribute information.
Council President Fraley-Monillas thanked Mayor Nelson for thinking outside box and moving so quickly
to address the needs of seniors, the food bank and small businesses. She has not received any calls from
citizens regarding distribution of these funds and several Councilmembers indicated they not received calls
either which means there is not a widespread concern. She commented approximately 50% of the businesses
and restaurants on Highway 99 have closed and will not reopen until further notice and probably some will
go out of businesses. She suggested outreach to the small businesses on the corridor to determine what they
need, recognizing that language is an importance piece because English is not the first language for a
number of the businesses and restaurants on Highway 99. She recognized a number of downtown businesses
have closed but probably not half.
Councilmember Olson said the spirit of the contracting authority limit was having the Council involved and
collaboration. The Council may want to look at regulations that would provide a more direct path or even
if the Mayor was not legally required to come to the Council, that there would be conversations between
Council and Mayor in the spirit of collaboration. Councilmembers put a lot of time and thought into what's
good for the community and they can provide value and the community can benefit from their involvement.
She appreciated Mayor Nelson's quick action and his hard work and hoped the Council, who are also
interested in quick action to benefit the community, could be more involved in the future.
Council President Fraley-Monillas pointed out Mayor Nelson has a $100,000 limit. During former Mayor
Earling's tenure, the limit was $50,000 and it was increased to $100,000 which is an'appropriate amount.
The Mayor needs to have some flexibility to do things. Perhaps better communication would help in the
future, but that does not mean the Mayor can do whatever he wants because there is a spending limit.
Councilmember Olson said her point was the three different allocations were collectively over $100,000
and she was unsure that lived up to the spirit.
Council President Fraley-Monillas invited Mayor Nelson to comment. Mayor Nelson said people are
suffering now from food shortages, seniors are suffering from the virus and being at risk of the virus, and
businesses are closed now due to government order. The actions that were taken were an effort to address
the crisis as swiftly as possible. He agreed there were lessons learned, but the goal was to provide immediate
aid the best way he could in a crisis. He acknowledged there were other options but those would have taken
significantly longer. The City could wait for other entities, the state or the feds to do something, but the
actions the City is taking to help people is an important message. Whether it is the ordinance proposed by
Councilmember Distelhorst or this program, it is important that the City take action. This is initial funding
in response to a crisis; the Council can add to it which he would fully support.
O� U WII RLINU a ►]�7A I WIMS
Mayor Nelson commented as funds become available, it is important that the budget and actions are
reflective of the City and he encouraged Councilmembers to look through that lens. He looked forward to
collaborating with the Council about emergency funds from the federal government and plans to disburse
them.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 14
10. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Council President Fraley-Monillas said she was charged with putting a committee together to discuss the
use of the $1.26M the City will receive. She invited Councilmembers to email her to volunteer and she
would draw names if several volunteered. Mayor Nelson clarified it will be a task force comprised of
Councilmembers and City staff who will make a presentation to Council.
Councilmember Distelhorst thanked Mayor Nelson and the Council for their support and leadership for
Edmonds residents. This process will be a long one and even with the governor's easing of some limited
outdoor recreation, he urged residents to keep the health and safety of their families and neighbors a top
priority to prevent the curve from going back up. The economic impacts of this crisis will continue mounting
the longer it goes on. He was glad the Council took action tonight to encourage relief on rent and mortgage
by state and federal authorities, noting the Council may need to continue advocating on behalf of residents,
businesses and nonprofits. He looked forward to hearing from Ms. Hope and Mr. Doherty regarding how
the money from the Homelessness Response Fund is being administered and how they are helping those
most in need during this crisis. The Recovery Task Force met with staff yesterday for the first time and he
looked forward to continuing to work with them to discuss how to come out of the Stay Home, Stay Safe
orders.
Councilmember K. Johnson expressed her thanks to everyone in the City for maintaining social distancing
and keeping the COVID-19 virus under control. In comparing Edmonds' statistics with Lynnwood, which
is about the same size as Edmonds, Edmonds has about half the number of cases and significantly fewer
deaths. She recognized it takes the whole community together to combat the virus.
Councilmember Buckshnis agreed it was not time to reopen and she preferred to let other states reopen and
see what happens. Things are still worrisome, but she was glad some construction has reopened. As a
founding member of dog park, she said the dog park is closed. She referred to the dog park newsletter that
addresses COVID-19 and introduces the City's new Parks & Recreation Director. There are plenty of places
to walk dogs such as in neighborhoods, the trails of Hutt and Yost, and on Sunset. She urged everyone to
stay safe and healthy and to walk their dogs.
Councilmember Olson said she has seen some disturbing things on social media during the last week. She
emphasized this is a very serious health crisis. As soon as there is a safe approach to businesses and
recreation activities, she requested the Mayor and Governor release them from the mandate. Exercising pets
is working well for those who are ambulatory, but she suggested consideration be given to opening the dog
park for people who aren't ambulatory; perhaps limiting the dog park to those who are disabled would be
a way to limit the number of people. To the extent that things can be opened, they should be opened in safe,
socially distanced ways that conform with the mandates. She gave a shout out to her fellow
Councilmembers, commenting it had been a terrific week and a great meeting. Everyone was super well
prepared and put in a lot of thought and brought up good points in discussions.
Councilmember L. Johnson recognized the loss of 21 Edmonds residents to COVID-19 virus, a sorrowful
loss for the entire community. With a population of 42,000, that is 1 life lost for every 2,000 residents and
unfortunately it will probably go higher. People have some control over how high it goes; staying home
saves lives. She implored everyone to continue abiding by the Stay at Home order and not let their
restlessness and reckless choices undo these efforts. Continue to protect the health of your family and our
community; stay safe and be well.
Councilmember Paine said she was happy with tonight's meeting; the Council focused on the community's
well-being and its needs. She encourage everyone to take advantage of the programs they quality for if they
were in need. There is no shame, this has never been seen before and will likely last longer than most are
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 15
comfortable with. She encouraged the public to ask for help if they needed help and to inform the City if
there are any gaps. The Council is limited in what it can discuss at meetings -and -perhaps _the governor will
address that soon. She encouraged the public to ask for help with food, housing needs, utilities, yard work,
etc. to ensure residents and the community get through this in as graceful and as healthy a way as possible
which means keeping safe distances, limiting trips to the store, and being safe and thoughtful.
Student Rep Bauder hoped everyone was doing well and staying safe, commenting a big part of staying
healthy is getting a lot of sleep.
11. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:06 p.m.
MICHAEL NELSON, MAYOR SCOTT PASSEY, CITY CLERK
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 16
comfortable with. She encouraged the public to ask for help if they needed help and to inform the City if
there are any gaps. The Council is limited in what it can discuss at meetings and perhaps the governor will
address that soon. She encouraged the public to ask for help with food, housing needs, utilities, yard work,
etc. to ensure residents and the community get through this in as graceful and as healthy a way as possible
which means keeping safe distances, limiting trips to the store, and being safe and thoughtful.
Student Rep Bauder hoped everyone was doing well and staying safe, commenting a big part of staying
healthy is getting a lot of sleep.
11. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:06 p.m.
MICHAEL NELSON, MAYOR kCCWf PASSEY, CITY CL
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 16
Public Comment for 4/28/20
4/27/20 Ken Reidy, Subject: Additional Public Comment for April 28, 2020 City Council Meeting
I find it to be of great concern that over 90% of the money budgeted for Homelessness
Response and Opioid Response sat untouched for such a long time and that 40% of it
($200,000) was eventually transferred to the Marsh Restoration and Preservation Fund. Page
68 of the 2019 Adopted Budget states the following:
Function: The Edmonds Opioid Response Fund (019) was established through Ordinance No.
4105 effective April 6, 2018. The fund was established to provide moneys with which to alleviate
the problem of opioid addiction in Edmonds and the surrounding area. 2019 Bud et Chan es:
Council amendment added $200,000 for a transfer to the Marsh Restoration Fund. I encourage
others to read the December 5, 2017 City Council Meeting Minutes which include powerful
Audience Comments about these issues. One Audience Comment made by a current
Councilmember before she was on Council (Laura Johnson) discussed:"In June 2016
homelessness was one of the top five ideas at Mayor Earling's town hall. In August 2017, Mayor
Earling announced appointments to a housing strategy task force, stating many groups in the
region are working on housing and homelessness issues and the City needed its own approach,
one that recognizes good examples from others but tailored to our community, our people and
our needs. It has been a slow start locally to begin discussing these issues and once the task
force presents its findings this spring, funds will be needed to begin implementation."Funds
were allocated and the great majority of the funds have remained unused. How is that
possible? Councilmember Luke Distelhorst is now proposing a transfer $100,000 from the
existing Homelessness Response Fund to assist Edmonds residents on limited incomes who
have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Funding would come from a transfer
of up to $100,000 from the existing Homelessness Response Fund.The City Council agenda
packet for tomorrow's April 28, 2020 Council meeting confirms that $225,443 of the original
$250,000 remains unspent in this fund (General Fund, Edmonds Homelessness Response
Subfund 018). 1 salute Councilmember Distelhorst's efforts to actually get this money in the
hands of those who need it. At the same time, I must ask: Why did it take a pandemic to start
the flow of this money to people who need it? Homelessness problems were well known long
before the Covid-19 outbreak, and the money was budgeted. As stated earlier: In June 2016
homelessness was one of the top five ideas at Mayor Earling's town hall. In addition, during the
same time period the great majority of this budgeted money sat by unused, the City violated the
City's street vacation Either:OR law. City Council charged Westgate Chapel
$92,610 PLUS made Westgate Chapel grant multiple easements to 3rd parties. ECDC
20.70.140.A.3. clearly says that it is Either:OR. Edmonds City Government had no legal right
to require BOTH — the law is clearly Either:OR. Just think of the good Westgate Chapel could
have done with their $92,610 plus all the money they had to spend preparing the multiple 3rd
Party easements required by City of Edmonds Government, etc. I suspect available funds
would not have sat by unused. Westgate Chapel Emergency Services is wholly funded by
donations of the Westgate Chapel family and the greater Edmonds, Washington community and
is a member of the Snohomish County Food Bank Coalition which is made up of twenty food
banks in our county. Westgate Chapel Emergency Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organization. Each week Westgate Chapel Emergency Services operates a food and clothing
bank for the less fortunate in the greater Edmonds community. The food Westgate Chapel
Emergency Services distributes is donated by Northwest Harvest, Food Lifeline and the United
States Federal Commodities Program. In addition, food, clothing and household items are
donated by the Westgate Chapel congregation and the greater Edmonds community. Westgate
Chapel Emergency Services also purchases food when donations are not enough. In addition to
food and clothing, Westgate Chapel Emergency Services also provides some financial
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 17
assistance, gasoline and community transit vouchers for appointments or job searches and/or
grocery vouchers for specialized needs.
4/26/20 Finis Tupper, Subject: Community and Economic Relief Fund.
FACT: There is no Community and Economic Relief Fund in the adopted 2020 City of Edmonds
Budget.
FACT: There are no agreements for services between the City of Edmonds and the Edmonds
Chamber of Commerce, Edmonds Senior Center and the Edmonds Food Bank. FACT: City
never solicited services for the poor and infirmed. State Law RCW 35A.33.120: Transfers
between individual appropriations within any one fund may be made during the current fiscal
year by order of the city's chief administrative officer subject to such regulations, if any, as may
be imposed by the city council. Notwithstanding the provisions of RCW 43.09.210 or of any
statute to the contrary, transfers, as herein authorized, may be made within the same fund
regardless of the various offices, departments or divisions of the city which may be affected.
RCW 42.24.080 - Municipal corporations and political subdivisions --Claims against for
contractual purposes --Auditing and payment--Forms--Authentication and certification. All claims
presented against any county, city, district or other municipal corporation or political subdivision
by persons furnishing materials, rendering services or performing labor, or for any other
contractual purpose, shall be audited, before payment, by an auditing officer elected or
appointed pursuant to statute or, in the absence of statute, an appropriate charter provision,
ordinance or resolution of the municipal corporation or political subdivision. Such claims shall be
prepared for audit and payment on a form and in the manner prescribed by the state auditor.
The form shall provide for the authentication and certification by such auditing officer that the
materials have been furnished, the services rendered or the labor performed as described, and
that the claim is a just, due and unpaid obligation against the municipal corporation or political
subdivision; and no claim shall be paid without such authentication and certification ....
Washington Constitution Article Vill, Section 7 of the Constitution of the State of Washington
states: No county, city, town or other municipal corporation shall hereafter give any money, or
property, or loan its money, or credit to or in aid of any individual, association, company, or
corporation, except for the necessary support of the poor and infirmed. The Council must ignore
controlling constitutional, statutory, and common law authority to hold the Community and
Economic Relief Fund was properly created. It would be unconscionable for City Council to
ignore the plain meaning of the words in our State Constitution and State laws. What is a gift?
Giving something or money with no strings attached. First off Mayor Nelson lacks authority to
create a fund without the benefit of an adopted city ordinance. There is no Community and
Economic Relief Fund in the Edmonds 2020 Budget. The Mayor lacks authority to decide who
gets to receive public funds. Prior to any transfer of public taxpayer funds for services requires
bargained for services and documentation of those services to be provided. The City Attorney
alluded to agreements in his memo to the Council. I have requested those agreements with no
result from the City Clerk. There are no agreements in the Agenda packet. Where are the
agreements? The purpose of this requirement is to prevent fraud and misuse of the public
funds. Edmonds municipal government is a democracy not a dictatorship. If the Council truly
believes there is a public need to support the poor and infirmed please start this process over:
Create an ordinance, solicited bids, evaluated the organizations and plans to use those funds,
require a written agreements and documentation of the expenditures. Please City Council take
charge of this situation, failure to do otherwise would be abdication your legislative
responsibility.
4/26/20 Ken Reidy, Subject: Additional Public Comment for April 28, 2020 City Council Meeting
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 18
For another window into fundamental purpose of local government, I encourage the 2020 City
Council to read the following portion of the December 5, 2017 City Council Meeting Minutes.
After doing so, please research how much of the money was actually used for its purpose
between 1/1/2018 and 12/31/2019. Best I can tell, truly little of the $500,000 total has ever been
used for homelessness and/or opioid response. Was only $1,862 spent out of Funds 018 and
019 in all of 2019? It looks like the greatest use of these funds was a $200,000 transfer to the
Marsh Restoration & Preservation Fund. The 2019 budget is inconsistent, showing this
$200,000 transfer came from the Edmonds Homelessness Response Fund in some places and
showing it came from the Edmonds Opioid Response Fund in other places. For example, please
see page 21 of the 2019 budget which shows the $200,000 came out of the Edmonds
Homelessness Response Fund. Page 35 of the 2019 budget shows the $200,000 came out of
the Edmonds Opioid Response Fund. Page 20 of the 2019 budget calls both Funds 018 and
019 the Edmonds Opioid Response Fund. The following Meeting Minutes also show an
understanding of a need to create funds like the Marsh Restoration & Preservation Fund,
Homelessness Response Fund and Opioid Response Fund via Ordinance. Please also note
discussion of Council involvement approving distributions. Can a Mayor really create a fund
by himself, transfer funds to it and decide which third parties get the money — all without
involving the City Council? Add New Regional Homeless Fund
COUNCILMEMBER NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS,
TO FUND A REGIONAL HOMELESS FUND FOR $250,000. COUNCIL PRESIDENT
MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO AMEND THE
MOTION TO REDUCE THE AMOUNT TO $150,000 TO BE SET ASIDE FOR THE
HOMELESS AND USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE RECENT $1 MILLION ALLOCATED
BY SNOHOMISH COUNTY AND THAT NO FUNDS BE DISPERSED WITHOUT A SPECIFIC
VOTE OF THE CITY COUNCIL. Council President Mesaros referred to Snohomish County's
allocation of $1 million which represents $1.26/resident which includes Edmonds residents. His
amendment to allocate $150,000 increases that to $3.75/Edmonds resident, a generous amount
from citizens toward this problem. As mentioned by several speakers, this needs to be done in
conjunction with neighboring jurisdictions and he was hopeful other jurisdictions would respond
in kind so this could be a region -wide effort rather than just Edmonds as much more can be
accomplished working together. Councilmember Tibbott expressed support for the amendment.
As mentioned last week, he would like to have more particulars regarding the plan, especially
the specific deliverables from whatever grant mechanism is used. He recognized the need for
homeless services; his family has a formerly homeless youth living at his house and he has
been a great addition to their household. There are many ways that private citizens can be
involved in providing help and services to those in need. He summarized $150,000 was a great
start and if programs are proposed for funding that have specific deliverables and are meeting
needs, an amendment could be proposed to increase funding. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas
encouraged the Council to vote the amendment down to allow her to describe what the
$250,000 would cover. She was prepared to offer a long list that was developed in consultation
with a number of resources in Snohomish County. Councilmember Teitzel expressed support
for the amendment as he shares Councilmember Tibbott's concern regarding the need for more
detail about how the funds would be used. The funds are precious taxpayer money and the
Council must ensure they are invested wisely. There are many agencies focusing on
homelessness including Snohomish County, AHA, and the faith community which includes his
church. He preferred an integrated, synergistic effort that includes a framework regarding how
the funds would be spent so that the issue could be aggressively attacked. As Councilmember
Tibbott mentioned, the amount can always be increased once the framework is established.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 19
Councilmember Johnson referred to the phrase in the motion that the City's effort would be tied
to -what Snohomish -County is doing, pointing out southwest_Sn_o__homish_County is _very different_
from Everett and Marysville and she envisioned whatever funds the City allocated would be
spent in this area and not dispersed throughout Snohomish County. UPON ROLL CALL,
AMENDMENT FAILED (3-4), COUNCIL PRESIDENT MESAROS AND COUNCILMEMBERS
TEITZEL AND TIBBOTT VOTING YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, NELSON,
FRALEY-MONILLAS AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas
commented $250,000 is really a drop in the bucket compared to the $35 million that Seattle
allocated to the homeless issue and the large amount allocated by Everett. She highlighted
what the $250,000 could purchase: establish a human services work group which will require
staff time and money which she envisioned as a contract. She already has a number people
who have volunteered to serve on the work group from organizations that serve the very low
income and homeless. Some think the funds should be used to purchase land to provide
housing. She assured no one had all the answers; if they did, there would not be homelessness
in the streets. She proposed the City begin working on a solution and if there are funds left over,
great. She agreed the issues in south Snohomish County were different than in north or central
Snohomish County. In talking with surrounding cities about assisting in this issue in the long
term, there has been very good response and interest in moving forward. Councilmember
Fraley-Monillas encouraged the Council to support $250,000, assuring it would not be spent
willy-nilly because Mr. James would ensure the funds were appropriately spent. She suggested
putting together a small group of people, to include Council and staff, to figure out how to move
forward in an organized manner to take a really good look at homelessness. Councilmember
Nelson said while specifics are not where some would like, this is a first step. Every project is
measured by whether it is funded. He did not pretend to have all the ideas to solve the problem,
but he knows homelessness and the opioid crisis is costing the City and its citizens dearly. This
needs to be addressed not with words but deeds; the intent is to set aside $250,000 to begin
working on this next year. If not all of it is spent, that is okay but he favored setting aside the
funds to begin. Councilmember Teitzel supported aggressively getting after the issue of
homelessness; it is a crisis and something needs to be done. The City Council could
aggressively pursue ADU policies that would free up mother-in-law apartments to provide low
income housing, or zoning changes that would allow tiny homes to be placed in backyards to
house a homeless person. The Council has been very slow on the trigger on such changes. If
funds are needed, a mid -year budget amendment could be approved to fund efforts to address
homelessness. He encouraged the City to work on plans to address the issue and to get people
off the streets. He was conflicted; by voting no, it appeared he did not support addressing the
homelessness issue which he does, but he felt this was the improper process. Council
President Mesaros said he will support the motion because although he disagreed with the
amount to be allocated, he agreed with the principle. As Councilmember Teitzel mentioned, the
Council can do much more than allocate funds. His church in Seattle has constructed a tiny
house on its property; after being red flagged and fighting City Hall, they are working toward
completing it to house a homeless individual. He was hopeful houses of worship in the City
would have that opportunity as well as the City doing something to facilitate the permitting of
ADUs. Councilmember Tibbott was unclear how the funds would be dispersed and had not yet
heard how the Council would be involved in the disbursement. He has heard possibly a small
group or that the Finance Director will oversee it, but he wanted to know whether Council
approval of disbursements would be required. Mr. James suggested a transfer to Homeless
Fund to be created via ordinance rather than add a New Regional Homeless Fund," The Council
could then create the fund next year and determine how funds would be spent.
COUNCILMEMBER NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS,
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 20
TO AMEND THE MOTION TO REFLECT MR. JAMES' SUGGESTION (TRANSFER TO
HOMELESS FUND TO BE CREATED VIA ORDINANCE). Councilmember Buckshnis
commented this would be similar to the Edmonds Marsh Restoration Fund. The Council put
aside funds for the marsh with the same thought, to move it forward and there are now over
$500,000 in grant funds. She agreed with working on an ordinance next year. Councilmember
Johnson asked if that would be accomplished via a budget note. Mr. James said the
amendment would be renamed transfer to a fund to be created after the first of the year.
Councilmember Johnson remarked all Councilmembers are in favor of the idea but not the
amount; one amendment proposed to reduce it to $150,000, the proposal is $250,000, added
together and divided by 2 is $200,000. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas thanked Councilmember
Buckshnis for her comments about the marsh, She agreed the Council put aside $200,000 for
marsh restoration; the least the Council could do is save the lives of women and children and
families living in the streets for $50,000 more than was allocated to the marsh. AMENDMENT
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. UPON ROLL CALL, MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED (5-
2), COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, NELSON, FRALEY-MONILLAS, AND BUCKSHNIS
AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT MESAROS VOTING YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS TEITZEL
AND TIBBOTT VOTING NO. Add New Regional Opioid Response Fund Mr. James suggested
a similar amendment to create a transfer to an Opioid Fund to be created next year via
ordinance. COUNCILMEMBER NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS, TO TRANSFER FUNDS TO A REGIONAL OPIOID RESPONSE FUND TO BE
CREATED BY ORDINANCE NEXT YEAR. Council President Mesaros said although he agreed
with setting aside funds, the idea has less definition than the previous Homeless Fund.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL,
TO AMEND THE MOTION TO ALLOCATE $150,000 FOR AN OPIOID RESPONSE FUND.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas encouraged the Council to defeat the amendment to allow her
to explain how the funds could be used. Councilmember Teitzel commented the process is
inverse from what it should be. He supported the opioid response issue because members of
his family as well as members of friends' families have been effected. He agreed it hurts and is
a serious problem, a crisis and epidemic that needs to be addressed. However, he wanted
assurance the City was spending taxpayers money wisely which requires at least a framework
of a plan. He planned to support an upcoming amendment to provide funding to the Health
District which would be used in part to support the opioid response issue because it includes
some details. He was unable to support the $250,000 request without that level of detail. He
could support a reduced level with the knowledge funding could be increased if necessary.
UPON ROLL CALL, AMENDMENT FAILED (3-4), COUNCIL PRESIDENT MESAROS AND
COUNCILMEMBERS TEITZEL AND TIBBOTT VOTING YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS
JOHNSON, NELSON, FRALEY-MONILLAS AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO. Councilmember
Fraley-Monillas explained south Snohomish County has specific issues that are unlike other
parts of Snohomish County, opioid addiction behind closed doors, in homes schools,
businesses, not in the streets like in the rest of Snohomish County which makes it much more
difficult to reach people. She proposed creating a south Snohomish County response to the
opioid addiction to analyze the impact of the opioids specifically in south Snohomish County
(Snohomish Health District will assist with providing data at no charge), analyze assessment
and development of an action plan (action may include partnerships, prevention, treatment
options, recovery, leverage combined with other opportunities and programs occurring in
Snohomish County), and implement the action plan. One of the issues with opioid addiction is
housing and treatment of which there are none in Snohomish County other than emergency
rooms. This is a good start and something the Council can do. If the Council believes that
people need help, she encouraged them to support this fund and work toward a south
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 21
Snohomish County commission with contract staff during the next year and get information out
about opioid addiction. UPON ROLL CALL MAIN MOTION CARRIED (5-2),
COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, NELSON, FRALEY-MONILLAS, AND BUCKSHNIS AND
COUNCIL PRESIDENT MESAROS VOTING YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS TEITZEL AND
TIBBOTT VOTING NO.
4/25/20 Ken Reidy, Subject: Public Comment for April 28, 2020 City Council Meeting
The following Public Comments are submitted respectfully in the hope that they may promote a
change to the culture that has been existed within City of Edmonds government for years.
Culture evidenced by the fact that the last email response I received from an Edmonds Mayor
was on March 9, 2012. Culture evidenced by the fact that City Directors and City
Councilmembers do not respond to all my emails either.
The culture I am referring to is the culture that thinks it okay to "push the issue" due to so
called "liability issues" rather than simply complying with the Policies adopted by City
Council. The culture I am referring to is the culture that refuses to correct past violations of
adopted City Policies by Mayors, City Staff or City Council and refuses to make harmed citizens
or organizations whole.
If offering financial support to service agencies who provide assistance to the elderly, infirm and
lower -income residents and households and small businesses in our community is a
fundamental purpose of local government, why did Mayor Mike Nelson need to try and create a
NEW "Community and Economic Relief Fund"? Why wasn't this Relief Fund in place and
budgeted for long ago? My belief is that the City's conduct documented in Ordinance No.
4061 is a more accurate reflection of what City of Edmonds Government views a fundamental
purpose of local government. History shows that City of Edmonds government chose to act
contrary to the City's Street Vacation laws and charged Westgate Chapel $92,610 PLUS made
Westgate Chapel grant multiple easements to 3d parties. City of Edmonds government chose to
do this even after I stated the following during the November 1, 2016 Public Hearing: 1. "Why
should an applicant have to pay for and provide an appraisal with the application BEFORE the
City Council has even discussed granting the petition and/or whether or not to require
compensation? Perhaps the applicant should be REIMBURSED for this expense."
2. "1 strongly support NOT charging the applicant $92,610 related to this street vacation. I think
it would be WRONG to do so." 3. "Why charge the property owner now when staff
has FOUND that the vacation of those same easement rights is in the PUBLIC INTEREST?"
4. "Please treat this applicant fairly. The vacation is already in the PUBLIC INTEREST and that
should be PLENTY without the need for $92,610 more." 5. "Conditions include the provision of
easements to Olympic View Water and Sewer District as well as to other vague, unidentified
entities. I'M NOT SURE WHY WE ARE DOING IT THIS WAY instead of just simply following
State law by the City itself RETAINING an easement or the right to exercise and grant
easements in respect to the vacated land for the construction, repair, and maintenance of public
utilities and services?" Regarding item 1 above, my request that the applicant be reimbursed for
the appraisal expense was reasonable considering Ordinance No. 3647. Ordinance No.
3647 deducted the cost of the related appraisal ($3,750) from the compensation required. Why
was Westgate Chapel treated differently? The approved November 1, 2016 City Council
Meeting Minutes show that not one citizen showed up to the Public Hearing to ask City Council
to charge a penny of compensation for this street vacation, let alone the full tilt price of
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 22
$92,610. Furthermore, not one citizen showed up to support requiring Westgate Chapel to
grant easements to third parties.As such, why did City Council charge Westgate Chapel
$92,610 PLUS make Westgate Chapel grant multiple easements to 3rd parties? ECDC
20.70.140.A.3. clearly says that it is Either:OR. Edmonds City Government had no legal right
to require BOTH — the law is clearly Either:OR. Making all of this even worse, efforts are being
made from outside the legislative branch of our City Government to remove
the Either:OR law from our Code. The Either:OR law reflects the legislative intent of the
elected officials who adopted it. The people from outside the legislative branch of our City
Government are doing this even though Planning Board recently recommended keeping
the Either:OR law. Contrary to the Planning Board's recommendation and previously adopted
POLICY, City Staff recommends an amendment to City Code allowing City Council to require
BOTH monetary compensation AND the retention of easements (i.e. utility easements) as
conditions to a Street Vacation. The current City Code allows Either compensation: OR the
retention of easements.City Staff and the City Attorney are NOT our Policy Makers. As such,
why are they recommending action different than what Policy Makers previously adopted and
different than what the Planning Board recommends? Please review the following comments
made by City Attorney Jeff Taraday during the August 14, 2019 Planning Board Meeting. His
comments relate to another proposed amendment, doubling of compensation in certain
situations, but I think the comments provide a window into one view of the fundamental purpose
of local government: Taraday - 1:23:10 mark of Planning Board Meeting: "I represent the City of
Edmonds. I'm here to advance the interest of the City of Edmonds, not individual property
owners." Taraday - 1:23:18 mark of Planning Board Meeting: "So, if I see that State Law allows
the City of Edmonds to collect more money for a street vacation than it is currently collecting, it
is my job as the City Attorney to make that option available to the Policy Makers and let them
decide whether they want to adopt that into their Code or not .... but we are leaving money on the
table right now ... that is the bottom line. Now, Policy Makers may decide that it is good to leave
money on the table — that's a policy decision — but I'm telling you we are leaving money on the
table. So, I feel an obligation to bring that forward and let the Policy Makers make a decision
about whether that is a good thing or not." PLEASE NOTE: Policy Makers already decided long
ago what were good things. State Law has not changed, yet the City Attorney and City Staff
are recommending changes. Again, please appreciate, we do not elect the City Attorney or City
Staff to make Policy. Just think of the good Westgate Chapel could have done with their
$92,610 plus all the money they had to spend preparing the multiple 3rd Party easements
required by City of Edmonds Government, etc. Westgate Chapel Emergency Services is wholly
funded by donations of the Westgate Chapel family and the greater Edmonds, Washington
community and is a member of the Snohomish County Food Bank Coalition which is made up of
twenty food banks in our county. Westgate Chapel Emergency Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
organization. Each week Westgate Chapel Emergency Services operates a food and clothing
bank for the less fortunate in the greater Edmonds community. The food Westgate Chapel
Emergency Services distributes is donated by Northwest Harvest, Food Lifeline and the United
States Federal Commodities Program. In addition, food, clothing and household items are
donated by the Westgate Chapel congregation and the greater Edmonds community. Westgate
Chapel Emergency Services also purchases food when donations are not enough. In addition to
food and clothing, Westgate Chapel Emergency Services also provides some financial
assistance, gasoline and community transit vouchers for appointments or job searches and/or
grocery vouchers for specialized needs. I find it disingenuous that Edmonds City Government
would profess care for the elderly, infirm and lower -income residents and households after what
the City Government did to Westgate Chapel. Westgate Chapel has been aiding those less
fortunate for decades. Westgate Chapel did not need to create a NEW "Community and
Economic Relief Fund". Westgate Chapel had its first worship service on June 7, 1959 and
has been providing relief in our community for decades! Next, the City Council Agenda
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
Page 23
Packet is once again incomplete. The 3 detailed Community and Economic Relief Services
Agreements are missing. I believe an Open and Transparent Government provides these
documents so that the City Council and the public can see what terms Mayor Nelson agreed
to. When were the 3 agreements executed? Where are these "service agreements" that Mayor
Nelson entered into? Did City Council ever contemplate adopting policy that the City needed to
seek out such "service agreements" instead of providing the relief directly? Does the Service
Agreement entered into with the Edmonds Chamber Foundation require the Chamber to identify
the specific economic benefits that the public will receive from the grants or loans? What
happens if more than $100,000 is needed? Will Mayor Nelson's agreements have to be voided
so Council can authorize entering into new agreements that exceed the Mayor's purchasing
limit? The related Narrative claims that "the three existing Edmonds agencies most directly
engaged in providing direct services to the elderly and infirm, lower -income and food -stressed,
and/or small business community were identified as recipients of monies from the Community
and Economic Relief Fund'. While all 3 are valuable agencies, is that an accurate
representation? If this is why the 3 agencies got the money, please require documentation
proving that these 3 are the three existing Edmonds agencies most directly engaged in
providing direct services to the elderly and infirm, lower -income and food -stressed, and/or small
business community. Was a study done to prove this? If not, maybe the money would be more
efficiently utilized by other nonprofit organizations. Would not an application process have
helped to determine who best to provide these funds to? Next - the City Council Agenda Packet
does not contain copies of Ordinances No. 4104 or No. 4105, both adopted while current Mayor
Mike Nelson was City Council President. Had even one of the Ordinances been included in the
City Council Agenda Packet, the 2020 City Council could have easily seen what has been done
before to create anew fund within the General Fund and transfer money to it. ECC 3.85.010
"Homelessness Response Fund" clearly shows that the administrative services director needs
to be authorized to create and number a new fund. History and Ordinances No. 4104 or No.
4105 shows that this authorization is done via Ordinance, something Mayor Nelson cannot do
on his own. Once City Council has authorized the creation and numbering of a new fund, it may
be supported by a transfer from other unexpended or decreased funds made available by
Ordinance. Please consider the need to bring forth a request for City Council to authorize the
creation and numbering of a new fund to be known as the Edmonds Community and Economic
Relief Fund. If such is authorized and funds are made available by Ordinance or supported by
future budget appropriations, please clarify who can apply for the related funds and how it will
be decided who the funds are given to. Please do all you can to insist we remain a mayor -
council plan of government as currently required by Ordinance No. 1513. Please do what you
can to promote an improved culture within City of Edmonds government.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 28, 2020
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