Cm130528EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
May 28, 2013
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 5:45 p.m. by Mayor Earling in the Council
Chambers, 250 5th Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Dave Earling, Mayor
Lora Petso, Council President
Strom Peterson, Councilmember
Frank Yamamoto, Councilmember
Joan Bloom, Councilmember
Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember*
*(arrived 5:46 p.m)
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember
ELECTED OFFICIALS ABSENT
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Walker Kasinadhuni, Student Representative
1. ROLL CALL
STAFF PRESENT
Al Compaan, Police Chief
Stephen Clifton, Community Services/Economic
Development Director
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Carrie Hite, Parks & Recreation Director
Rob Chave, Acting Development Services Dir.
Jerry Shuster, Stormwater Eng. Program Mgr.
Rob English, City Engineer
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Linda Hynd, Deputy City Clerk
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst.
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
Deputy City Clerk Linda Hynd called the roll. All elected officials were present with the exception of
Councilmembers Johnson and Buckshnis.
(Councilmember Johnson arrived at 5:46 p.m.)
2. INTERVIEW CANDIDATES FOR APPOINTMENT TO THE EDMONDS CITIZENS' TREE
BOARD.
At 5:47 p.m., the City Council met with the following candidates for appointment to the Edmonds
Citizens' Tree Board, Darcy Macpherson, Roy Smith and Douglas Swartz. The meeting took place in the
Jury Meeting Room, located in the Public Safety Complex. All City Councilmembers, with the exception
of Councilmember Buckshnis, were present for the interviews.
3. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING LITIGATION PER RCW
42.30.110(1)(i).
Mayor Earling announced at 6:45 p.m., the City Council would meet in executive session regarding
pending litigation per RCW 42.3.110(1)(i). He stated that the executive session was scheduled to last
approximately 15 minutes and would be held in the Jury Meeting Room, located in the Public Safety
Complex. He advised the Council may take action as a result of meeting in executive session. Elected
officials present at the executive session were: Mayor Earling, and Councilmembers Yamamoto, Johnson,
Fraley-Monillas, Peterson, Petso and Bloom. Others present were City Attorney Jeff Taraday and Deputy
City Clerk Linda Hynd. At 7:02 p.m , Mayor Earling announced to those present in the Council Chambers
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
May 28, 2013
Page 1
that an additional 10 minutes would be required in executive session. The executive session concluded at
7:12 p.m.
Mayor Earling reconvened the regular City Council meeting at 7:15 p.m.
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Council President Petso added an announcement regarding Yost Pool as Item 5.5.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON, TO
APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
5. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER YAMAMOTO,
TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda
items approved are as follows:
A. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF MAY 21, 2013.
B. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #202229 THROUGH #202340 DATED MARCH 23,
2013 FOR $865,048.92 (REPLACEMENT CHECK #202315 $104.74).
C. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF A CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM THOMAS J.
PAULSON (AMOUNT UNDETERMINED).
D. INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT - NORTH SOUND METRO SWAT.
E. ANNUAL RENEWAL OF SNOHOMISH REGIONAL DRUG & GANG TASK FORCE
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT (2013-2014).
F. ORDINANCE NO. 3923 — AMENDING THE PROVISIONS OF ECC 4.12 TO EXEMPT
STREET VENDORS PARTICIPATING IN CERTAIN SPECIAL EVENTS FROM THE
STREET VENDOR LICENSE FEE AND APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS AND THE
PROVISIONS OF ECC 4.12.055.0.
5.5 ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING YOST POOL.
Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite explained as preparation for aquatic season began a month ago, a
leak was detected in the hot water tank that serves the showers. It was difficult to diagnose and required
asbestos abatement. The contractors are attempting to locate an off -the -shelf unit to replace the tank as
well as be more efficient. She announced the pool will not open June 3, but she was hopeful the pool
could be opened by June 10. She summarized at this time the cost and the actual opening date are
unknown. The leak of the shower tank into the pool tank will also require replacing all the filters.
Ms. Hite explained $120,000 was authorized by Council in the 2013 budget to replace the Yost Pool
boiler. She suggested using those funds to replace the shower tank and not replace the boiler until this
replacement is made. Park Maintenance Manager Rich Lindsay and Pool Operator Steve Redwine assure
her the pool can "limp along" this year with the existing boiler. She was hopeful the tank replacement
would be within the $120,000 range and she did not have to return to Council for additional authorization.
Because it is an emergency and she would like to open the pool as soon as possible, she suggested
including it in the energy efficiency contractor's contract who has presented ideas for replacing the tank
with a more energy efficient tank, as well as replacing of shower heads.
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May 28, 2013
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Councilmember Peterson asked whether a motion was necessary. Ms. Hite answered the financial
authorization is already included in the 2013 CIP for Yost Pool although it states specifically boiler and
this would be for the water tank in order to open the pool. City Attorney Jeff Taraday explained there is
budget authority and contracting authority. If there is sufficient appropriation in the budget, no further
budget authority is needed. Whether Council authority is required to approve the contract depends on
whether the contract exceeds the $100,000 limit. Ms. Hite was hopeful the contract would be under
$100,000; if it was not, she would return to Council for approval.
There were no objections by Councilmembers to Ms. Hite's suggestion.
Mayor Earling requested a press release regarding the reason and solution. Ms. Hite suggested releasing a
press release tomorrow when further information is available from the contractor.
6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Pamela Shaw, Educational Homestay Programs, explained their mission is breaking down barriers of
language, culture and geography. This is done by bringing international students into local communities
to help them improve their English, learn about American culture and share their culture with members of
the community. The students arrive July 3 and stay for 3%2 weeks until July 29. Approximately 350
students, ages 13-18 years, are coming to the Pacific Northwest this summer for 3-4 weeks; 40 will be in
the Snohomish County area. Homes are needed for approximately 20 students for 1, 2 or 31/2weeks.
EHSP organizes two full day activities for students; the rest of the time they are with their American
families or individuals who are interested in learning about another culture and sharing their own. The
students' lives are changed when they learn about the real America. The host does not need to have a
child in their home; many empty nesters and individual professionals enjoy hosting a student. Her contact
information for anyone interested in hosting a student is Pamela.Shaw(a�ef.com or 617-233-7467.
Finis Tupper, Edmonds, addressed Mayor Earling, stating he is still waiting for an answer to his
question: "Does state law allow City planning staff approval of a variance to the lot requirements as
specified in ECDC 16, subdistricts, without public notice and hearing?" He noted with Mayor Earling's
experience and his sworn oath to uphold the laws of Edmonds, he was entitled to Mayor Earling's answer.
Mr. Tupper assured he would continue to come to Council meetings until he received a response from
Mayor Earling.
7. PRESENTATION: WILLOW CREEK DAYLIGHT EARLY FEASIBILITY STUDY/EDMONDS
MARSH.
Stormwater Engineering Program Manager Jerry Shuster identified the project team, Keeley O'Connell,
Senior Project Manager, EarthCorps; and consultant team: Shannon & Wilson, Inc., Anchor QEA, LLC,
and Confluence Environmental. He explained most of the funding for this project was provided by the
State Recreation and Conservation (RCO) through the Salmon Recovery Funding (SRF) Board. The focus
of the study was primarily fish due to the funding source.
Mr. Shuster explained daylighting means taking part of a stream that is currently in an enclosed pipe and
creating an open-air stream channel instead. He displayed an aerial view of Willow Creek, identifying its
flow though the marsh and explaining where it was put in a pipe in the 1960s. The focus of this project is
to open the connection between the channel and Puget Sound. He explained daylighting Willow Creek
would:
Improve connection between Puget Sound and Edmonds Marsh
o More saltwater marsh, closer to its original ecosystem, better for salmon, birds, and other
critters.
o Lower water level at low tide that may help area flooding
o Higher water level at high tide? If so, tide gate can mitigate.
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Mr. Shuster reviewed the project history:
• First got major traction with the Edmonds Crossing Project — Environmental Enhancement (FEIS
2004)
• Sound Transit's Sounder Train Project wBNSF
o Needed environmental mitigation for filling of wetlands further north
o City suggested Sound Transit install bridges for future daylighting of Willow Creek.
He displayed a photograph of the new bottomless culverts/bridges/trestles installed by BNSF/Sound
Transit in 2011 to facilitate daylighting of the Creek.
Keeley O'Connell, Senior Project Manager, EarthCorps, stated the primary focus of the project is to
explore the feasibility of providing (and maximizing) Chinook salmon access to rearing habitat in
Edmonds Marsh, primarily juvenile Chinook salmon. A secondary focus is to keep the Marsh level lower
during large storm events. She pointed out this is a rare opportunity because most of these habitats on the
east side of the Puget Sound basin were completely filled. She displayed a map of WRIA 8 identifying
juvenile Chinook migration patterns. There are a lot of juvenile Chinook salmon off the beach in
Edmonds in the eel grass and kelp beds but they are unable to get into the marsh due to the pipe system.
Ms. O'Connell displayed a United States Coastal Survey 1872 map overlaid on a current satellite image
of downtown Edmonds. She described historic conditions including the 100+ acre barrier estuary of
which approximately 32 acres remain. It was a common practice over the past century to fill and build
upon these areas. This area has uniquely rich habitat, a rare opportunity between Everett to Tacoma.
Ms. O'Connell described the goals of the early feasibility phase:
• Document existing conditions
• Evaluate three alternative alignments (RCO requirement)
• Develop conceptual plan based on preferred alternative
• Perform hydrodynamic modeling
• Assess biological/fish response
• Provide recommendations for next phase
Ms. O'Connell described the three alternative alignments:
1. North — historically the creek channel went north
2. Directly into Marina — shortest distance
3. Extend existing open channel south — connection to healthiest beach and where bridges have been
installed
She displayed a map of the alternative alignments analysis and explained the south alignment was chosen
as the preferred alignment due to:
• Fish response
• Healthier, broader, more gently sloping beach
• Larger eel grass and kelp beds,
• Existing bridges which avoids negotiation with BNSF
• Entering a marina would be challenging for juvenile salmon who are dependent on sense of smell
• North or marina alignment would not achieve goal of daylighting Willow Creek as culverts or
pipes would be required for the majority of the stretches due to existing infrastructure
Ms. O'Connell displayed a map of the preferred alignment across the beach to the south, advising the
alignment shown on the map was not necessarily the exact alignment. One of the next steps will be to
determine the best alignment for fish to enter the system as well as hydrologically for water to leave the
marsh to alleviate flooding. She described biological benefits of this project:
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If juvenile fish enter the channel early in the tidal cycle, they would have access to the marsh up
to 60% of the time.
If fish enter later in the flood tidal cycle, their access will be limited starting 1 to 2 hours after
high slack tide.
However, residency in the marsh and upper creeks will be possible between tidal cycles if
channels are excavated and habitat value improved above the salt marsh area.
Mr. Shuster described hydrological benefits, explaining the increased connectivity to Puget Sound from
the daylighted channel does not appear to increase flood water surface elevations and may actually reduce
flood water surface elevations. He displayed a graph comparing flows during the December 3, 2007 flood
event for existing and proposed conditions.
Mr. Shuster explained the study concluded it is feasible to daylight Willow Creek and provide a
biological benefit and probable hydrologic benefit. Recommendations include:
• Additional data to calibrate a model for design
• Evaluate the need for a tide gate
• Evaluate if modifications to existing RR bridges are needed to optimize project
• Determine optimum biological and hydraulic alignment through beach
• Work on real estate issues
• More to preliminary design & permitting
Mr. Shuster provided an early cost opinion:
• Final feasibility, engineering design and permitting: $1
(City of Edmonds has applied to RCO for $315,441
feasibility and preliminary engineering design)
• Implementation — total estimated cost: $4.35 million
o Mobilization/Demobilization: $250,000
o Beach Outfall Construction: $1,210,000
o Daylight Channel Construction: $1,306,600
o Marsh Improvements: $155,000
o Taxes, Insurance, Contingency (30%): $1,428,000
1 million
with $225,051 in secured match for final
Ms. O'Connell described the RCO grant the City has applied for via the SRF Board, explaining the City
submitted the pre -application last month. The scope of work for that proposal finalizes feasibility of this
project and initial design work. She noted it was difficult to apply for enough money to complete design
and permitting because the funder wants to see that the project continues to make sense as progress is
being made. Although this grant funder's focus is salmon, there are many other avenues to secure
additional local, state and federal funding due to other implications of this project such as alleviating
flooding, improving habitat and quality of life, human connection to the system, etc. She is in the process
of identifying other funding sources; one of the challenges for a project manager is to combine funding
with the timing of the project.
Council President Petso asked about the source of the $225,000 City match. Mr. Shuster answered
stormwater fees.
Councilmember Bloom referred to Ms. O'Connell's comment that this marsh is the only such marsh in
the area. Ms. O'Connell responded there is only one other somewhat similar opportunity from Everett to
Tacoma, Tilow Park in Tacoma, but it historically has been a different kind of marsh system. They are
slightly further in their design. Many of the systems in the region were completely filled in the past; one
of the largest, Salmon Bay in Seattle, is where Lake Union used to drain into Puget Sound.
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Councilmember Bloom asked about the potential for salmon to return. Ms. O'Connell explained salmon
were not actually born in this system. These two creeks historically had Coho but not Chinook; Chinook
are mainsteam spawners and use only the biggest rivers such as the Skagit, Snohomish, Stilliquamish, and
Cedar. When they emerge from rivers, they find these types of habitats, to rear until they are large enough
to swim out to the open ocean where they remain for 3-5 years and migrate back to Puget Sound and sniff
out the river where they were born. If the system is opened up, Chinook and likely Coho will return. She
anticipated with restoration adult Coho would spawn in Willow Creek in the future.
For Councilmember Bloom, Ms. O'Connell explained the new bridge/culvert is a 33 foot bottomless
culvert. The only covered section of Willow Creek would be under the two railroad tracks. Daylighting
also provides an opportunity to create a vegetated habitat buffer on both sides of the creek to create shade
needed to keep the water cool.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked how the rehabilitation would benefit other wildlife. Ms.
O'Connell explained in addition to salmon, restoration would improve the resident cutthroat trout
population in Willow Creek. It would also greatly improve bird habitat. The existing tide gate, which
must be shut manually, is closed mid -October to Marsh, essentially turning the saltwater marsh into a
freshwater marsh for those months which are critical months for migratory marine birds that would
normally utilize this habitat. It would also improve the habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Although she
had not seen evidence of beaver or river otter in the marsh, they would use these types of habitats.
Councilmember Johnson asked about the relationship between salmon recovery and drainage. She
referred to the salt marsh mud flat area and the fresh water emergent on the map, asking which habitat the
fish will thrive in and what impact dredging a new channel will have on that habitat. Ms. O'Connell
answered juveniles primarily use the salt marsh areas. Their bodies have to physiologically change from
birth in freshwater to migrate into saltwater in Puget Sound; once they make that change, they tend not to
return to fresh water. Adult salmon such as spawning Coho would need more obvious creek channels for
spawning. Excavating creek channels would allow the water to flow more freely and consistently out of
the marsh. Dredging would not affect juveniles because the creeks would not be dredged into the salt
marsh, only up to the edge of the salt marsh and allow them to naturally sheet flow out. She concluded
dredging would not impair juvenile habitat in the salt marsh and would improve spawning habitat for
adults in the fresh water marsh and improve the conveyance of water down the creeks, through the marsh
and out to Puget Sound, instead of Dayton/SR 104.
Councilmember Yamamoto inquired about the timeframe for next steps if the grant is obtained. Mr.
Shuster explained if the SRF Board likes the City's pre -proposal, they will request a full proposal in
August. If that is approved, funding is likely next January. In the meantime there are funds in the City's
2013 budget to continue moving forward with things such as a better survey of the marsh.
8. BRIEFING ON THE RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE — DAYTON STREET & SR104
DRAINAGE STUDY.
Stormwater Engineering Program Manager Jerry Shuster explained this project has connections with the
Willow Creek daylighting project. He reviewed information from the presentation he made to the Council
in January regarding the Dayton Street & SR104 Drainage Study:
• Why does the intersection flood?
1. The inability of Shellabarger Creek to entirely flow under SR104 into Edmonds Marsh and
the inability of getting the flow out of the Marsh into Puget Sound in a timely manner.
2. The elevation of the Dayton St. stormwater line at the intersection of SRI04 is lower than the
water level in Puget Sound during much of the tidal cycle
Mr. Shuster displayed an aerial photograph of the area, identifying Shellabarger Creek, SR104 and
Dayton Street. He reviewed the recommended alternative to reducing flooding:
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• Isolate the two main drainage systems
o Dayton St. System
o Willow Creek/Shellabarger Creek/Edmonds Marsh system
• Improve conveyance to Puget Sound for both systems
Mr. Shuster displayed an aerial of the recommended alternative and identified several components of the
recommended alternative:
• Improve culverts (clean, lower or replace)
• Plug pipe to Dayton System and add short berm
• Improve conveyance to Puget Sound (daylighting Willow Creek helps)
• Install pump station at Dayton Street to pump stormwater out at high tide
• Reroute Salish Cross drainage to Dayton system
Council President Petso asked if the Dayton Street line is the one the City pays rent to the Port. Mr.
Shuster answered no, that line is where Willow Creek is now. Council President Petso asked if the City
would be able to stop paying that rent with the completion of the previous project. Public Works Director
Phil Williams answered that remains to be seen; there may be a use for that line in the future depending
on the location of the pump station. He noted these two projects have many similar goals although they
are funded separately and each has unique goals. He noted most grants either require a local match or a
match makes the grant application more competitive. Because the projects solve flooding and drainage
issues as well as improve the environment, the match can be stormwater utility revenue.
Council President Petso observed there are public benefits to the project as well as benefits to private
property. She asked if upsizing the pump station would be funded via stormwater utility funds plus grant
funds or would the Salish Crossing property owners provide funding. Mr. Williams said that question
could be answered once design has progressed. He explained eliminating the flow of stormwater and
associated contaminants from Salish Crossing into the Harbor Square system and into the marsh would be
a huge environmental benefit and it would be plausible to use public funds.
Councilmember Johnson inquired about the biological and drainage function of the Unocal property on
the south side of the marsh. Mr. Shuster answered that property was an oil terminal from 1923 to 2003
and does not function well biologically. The State and Unocal/Chevron are in the process of an
environmental cleanup and plan to release a feasibility study later this year regarding the site.
In response to Council President Petso's earlier question, Mr. Shuster explained if/when Willow Creek is
daylighted, the pipe located on Port property could be rehabbed and used for overflow in the event of a
large storm or sea level rise. Mr. Williams suggested if the City were to invest funds in that pipeline, the
City could own the pipe or the owner could contribute to the rehab of the pipe. He noted the pipe was in
poor structural condition and would need work in the next few years.
Councilmember Peterson asked if there were opportunities with redevelopment of Harbor Square and
Salish Crossing to utilize low impact development (LID) techniques such as rain gardens. Mr. Shuster
answered yes and no; the Salish Crossing project that demolished some of the buildings and constructed
Sound Transit parking does include a rain garden for parking lot runoff. He noted because the area is so
low and ground water is just below the surface, it is not the ideal location for rain gardens for stormwater
control but they can assist with improving the water quality.
For Councilmember Peterson, Mr. Shuster explained at the start of this project, a stakeholder meeting was
held with representatives from Salish Crossing, Sound Transit, the Port, and WSDOT. Once a
recommended alternative is finalized, another meeting will be held to continue that discussion. Mr.
Williams advised all commercial customers pay stormwater rates based on the amount of impervious
surface that contributes to the system.
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Page 7
Mr. Shuster reviewed the estimated planning level costs:
Item
Estimated Cost
Isolate the two main drainage systems incl. sediment and
$458,000
Improve Conveyance
Da on St System
Pump Station
$1,173,000
Connect Salish Crossing flow and Harbor Square Overflow
$185,000
WQ Treatment for Ferry Holding Lanes
$442,000
Edmonds Marsh System
Willow Creek Da li tin incl. channel restoration
$5,545,000
Harbor Square flap gates and berm
$200,000
Rehab existing pipe/outlet improvements
$400,000
Self-regulating tide gate (TBD)
$567,000
Estimated Total
$8,970,000
Mr. Shuster reviewed next steps:
• Public Open House in late spring/early summer 2013 to present the recommended alternatives
and get input.
• Work with stakeholders to develop a plan to implement preferred alternatives.
• Move projects into the CIP for design and implementation.
EMERGENCY SERVICES COORDINATING AGENCY (ESCA)
Police Chief Al Compaan explained one of his responsibilities is serving as the City Disaster Coordinator.
This presentation is in response to a Council request to provide information regarding disaster
preparedness. The City is a member of ESCA who assists the City with disaster preparedness.
Lyn Gross, ESCA, offered to provide Councilmembers a tour of ESCA's facility. She next provided
ESCA's vision: The Emergency Services Coordinating Agency, its member cities and citizens in the
community, prepares for disasters. ESCA's mission is to coordinate and assist the ESCA member cities to
be better prepared for disasters through mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery activities. She
highlighted laws that govern emergency management including RCW 38.52, commenting many are new
since 9/11 and Post Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act. She explained RCW 38.52 requires
every city, county and town in the State to have an emergency management program. Jurisdictions can
establish their own program or join together with other agencies to conduct emergency management
activities as a group. ESCA member cities include Brier, Edmonds, Kenmore, Lake Forest Park,
Lynnwood, Mill Creek, Mountlake Terrace, Mukilteo, Woodinville and Woodway.
She provided information regarding ESCA staff:
• Combined staff experience — 67 years
• Certified Emergency Managers
• 20+ disaster declarations
• Leaders at the State and National level
• National recognition as IAEM subject matter experts
• Certified Master Trainers — FEMA Emergency Management Institute
Ms. Gross reviewed mandates and essential activities, commenting ESCA's responsibilities and mandates
post Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act and 9/11 have increased 350%:
• Planning requirements
o Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP)
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o Access and functional needs (ADA)
o Mitigation Plan
o Animal Response Plan
o Hazardous Materials and Terrorism
o Debris Management Plan
o Recovery Plan (soon to be a requirement)
o Regional Planning and Coordination
o Maritime Terrorism Response Plan
Grant "Work Plan" deliverables
Training and Exercises
o Annual training and exercise requirements
o NIMS compliance
Response/Continuity of Operations
o EOC operations, facilities and systems
o Emergency/Back-up communications EAS/CEMNET
o Staff and resources
o Mutual aid agreements
Ms. Gross reviewed planning activities ESCA provides:
• Research standards and best practices
• City and department coordination
• Develop partnerships and incorporate partners
• Stakeholder input
• De -conflict plans
• Review/approve process (state or federal)
• Production and distribution
• Plan maintenance (1-4 year cycles)
She reviewed training and exercise activities ESCA provides:
• Planning and training needs assessment
• Develop and deliver training
• Design and conduct exercises
• Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) compliance
• NIMS compliance
• Consider individual city needs
Ms. Gross reviewed response/EOC Operations activities ESCA provides:
• Centralized coordination in support of cities
• Liaison to state and federal response teams
• Essential EOC tasks
o Communication clearinghouse
o Regional prioritization of need
o Coordination with essential partners
o Restoration of essential services
o Resource support and management
• Support City disaster activities
o Incident Command System
o Damage assessment
o FEMA Public Assistance (PA) and Individual Assistance (IA)
o Mass care/shelter/CPOD
o Short-term and long-term recovery efforts
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o Request and support specialized team responses
Ms. Gross described broad support to cities ESCA provides:
• Coordinate activities with State EMD
o Statewide planning and response
o Grant management
o Emergency Worker Program
o Mission numbers
o Emergency communications system
o Liaison between cities and state
• Emergency/disaster support through ESCA EOC
o Resource management and support
o Coordinate FEMA public and individual assistance
o Coordinate mass care/shelter
o Establish Community Points of Distribution (CPOD)
o Support specialized team responses
o Support short and long term recovery efforts
• Planning using best practices and standards
• Develop and deliver training and exercises
• Support special projects and events
• Emergency management information clearinghouse
• Regional coordination and leadership presence
• Coordination with special purpose districts and community partners
• Fire and law enforcement mobilization support
She emphasized coordination is crucial: a whole community approach to emergency management and
disaster preparedness. She highlighted primary partners and secondary partners, advising there are
approximately 200 partner organizations. In addition to partners, ESCA utilizes volunteers; in 2012
ESCA volunteers contributed 5,523 hours or 2.7 FTE. She described value-added services ESCA
provides:
• MyStateUSA emergency notification
• Specialized planning (SOP development assistance, recovery, special teams)
• City -specific training
• Disaster Resource Database
• Public education and outreach (articles, brochures, community events, etc.)
• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
Ms. Gross identified City responsibilities:
• Pre -disaster:
o
Attend training
o
Participate in exercises
o
NIMS compliance
o
Cultivate local response capabilities
o
City policy and direction
o
Department participation in planning
• During disaster:
o
Public warning
o
Proclamation of emergencies
o
Continuity of government
o
Continuity of operations
o
City EOC management
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o Damage assessment
o Coordinate resource needs with ESCA
Ms. Gross identified concerns:
• Decreasing grant funds
• Sensitive to strained city budgets
• 30% increase in cities since 2005
• 350% increase in mandated planning elements
• 20% staffing decrease
Council President Petso advised she obtained some level of NIMS compliance and asked whether NIMS
compliance was required or recommended for elected officials. Ms. Gross answered the level of training
Council President Petso was asked to complete was familiarity versus operational training. During a
disaster response, there are issues in which the Council is engaged, particularly during recovery. The
mayor, city manager and anyone working in the EOC needs higher level training.
In the event of a large earthquake in which Edmonds homes were uninhabitable, Councilmember Bloom
asked where residents would go and what ESCA's role would be in getting them to the location. Ms.
Gross answered there are a variety of levels; first is a shelter of last resort which is simply to get people
out of the weather. In the event of a disaster, it is likely a series of interim shelters would be opened to
house people out of the weather until Red Cross established shelters. The City's disaster plan addresses
short and long term housing issues. Councilmember Bloom recalled discussions regarding grant funds to
upgrade the Edmonds Center for the Arts gym for use as an emergency shelter. Ms. Gross explained the
Red Cross has agreements with a variety of churches and schools regarding use for shelters. After an
earthquake, all those shelters must be evaluated before they are opened as shelters. People may need to
use an interim shelter until structures are evaluated.
Mayor Earling declared a brief recess.
10. DISCUSSION: CITY CODE REVIEW/REWRITE
Acting Development Services Director Rob Chave explained the City has begun to receive model
language from Carol Morris who is assisting with the rewrite. Staff will integrate Edmonds specific
material into the model code language, ensure internal consistency, remedy existing problems in the code,
etc. As stated in February, staff is committed to enabling the Council to discuss policy issues as they
arise. He asked at what point in the process the Council would like to have policy discussion regarding
issues such as subdivision and enforcement. He suggested having that discussion after internal review has
occurred and Edmonds specific information has been inserted.
Council President Petso requested policy changes be highlighted. Mr. Chave assured they would be.
Council President Petso commented scheduling Council review will become more difficult closer to
budget review. Mr. Chave advised the code review/rewrite is taking longer due to decreased staffing and
increased permitting.
11. DIRECTION TO PLANNING BOARD AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
REGARDING COUNCIL PRIORITIES ON WESTGATE AND FIVE CORNERS.
Councilmember Johnson advised this issue has arisen several times throughout the course of the Westgate
Plan and was discussed most recently at the Council retreat and the Parks, Planning and Public Works
Committee meeting. She was interested in coordinating the long range plans in the Westgate area. She
relayed it has been suggested the Council proceed with form based code in the Westgate area and address
transportation on a case -by -case basis as development occurs. She found that a short-sighted approach as
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there was an opportunity to coordinate the land use and transportation planning efforts, an approach that
is consistent with regional, multi -county and city policies such as Destination 2030, Vision 2040 and
Complete Streets.
She referred to Policy 3.15.A in the City's adopted Transportation element of the Comprehensive Plan
that encourages the preparation of comprehensive access plans and consolidation of access points in
commercial and residential areas through shared driveways and local access streets. She concluded there
is sufficient direction from a policy standpoint to coordinate land use and transportation. The question is
how to proceed to that end with the $50,000 allocated to initiate a study in the Westgate area. Her intent is
to coordinate the Westgate plan and transportation planning.
Councilmember Peterson observed the Planning Board has been working on the Westgate Plan for some
time and is relatively close to completion. He agreed with the idea of working on them together but did
not want to lose momentum on the Westgate Plan. He was also concerned with shifting staff time due to
the issues Mr. Chave noted with limited staff.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked if Councilmember Johnson's intent was to begin with Five
Corners then finish the Westgate Plan once the transportation study for SR104 has been completed.
Councilmember Johnson answered that was an initial suggestion because the transportation analysis and
the roundabout design for Five Corners has been completed. Her suggestion was the Westgate Plan would
be incomplete without the transportation study of SR104. Her research of the Planning Board's activities
indicates the only recent significant discussion regarding the Westgate Plan was on February 13, 2013.
There have been general discussions regarding form based code, often using Westgate, but only the one
detailed discussion about Westgate. She noted there appeared to be a shift in thinking about how form
based code integrates with transportation which heightened her concern.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked Councilmember Johnson to clarify what she was asking.
Councilmember Johnson asked to move forward with the transportation analysis for Westgate and not
conclude the Planning Board's recommendations until that work is complete. Councilmember Fraley-
Monillas asked if it was Councilmember Johnson's intent that no planning be done for Westgate or Five
Corners while that occurred or that the Westgate Plan and transportation planning occur concurrently.
Councilmember Johnson answered her concern was SR104 and did not think one should be done without
the other.
Public Works Director Phil Williams relayed Councilmember Johnson, staff and he have talked about the
scope of the SR104 study. Although the Council provided some funding, it is not enough to do a robust
study of the entire corridor. He and key staff are planning to meet with WSDOT to determine their
interest in pursuing a study. He did not see any problem with the two occurring concurrently, noting it
was similar to the daylighting study and flooding study that were presented to the Council earlier tonight;
they are occurring at the same time and although they do not have identical goals, there are several
commonalities. If the two were conducted independently, he was unsure when funding for a complete
project would be available.
Mayor Earling relayed Mr. Chave's indication that the Westgate study is 75-85% complete. Mayor
Earling expressed concern with timing, particularly a 1-2 year delay while funding is sought for a
transportation study. Mr. Chave advised the Planning Board has put a substantial amount of time into the
Westgate study including one hearing. The Planning Board has not put as much effort into Westgate in
recent months, awaiting feedback from the Council. The impetus for presenting this issue to the Council
was the Planning Board heard individual Councilmembers were interested in doing Five Corners first and
the Planning Board did not want to proceed to conclusion on Westgate if that was not the direction the
Council wanted to proceed. The Planning Board has not worked on the Five Corners Plan because they
wanted to "get their feet wet" on the Westgate Plan first.
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Council President Petso recalled the Planning Board Chair indicated the Planning Board needed to wrap
something else up and that would be a better time for the Planning Board to take a break from the
Westgate Plan and come to the Council after they had incorporated the Transportation element. She was
supportive of giving the Planning Board direction that the Council did not want them to finalize the
Westgate Plan until they have the Transportation Plan.
Councilmember Bloom noted there needs to be an understanding of the transportation system in Westgate
with regard to items such as turn lanes, bike trails, make it more pedestrian friendly and safe, etc. The
Westgate plan needs to address internal circulation, reaching the area safely via all modes of
transportation as well as pedestrian and bicycles crossing the street. She agreed with the Planning Board
delaying the Westgate Plan until the transportation element is integrated. She anticipated the Westgate
form based code would address setbacks, road and sidewalk widths, bike paths, turn lanes, ferry traffic,
etc. Mr. Chave responded form based codes do not deal with details of the right-of-way design. He agreed
it would be helpful to discuss a study with WSDOT.
Mayor Earling advised the WSDOT representative indicated she will be available for the Council's June
17 retreat. He suggested exploring the potential with the WSDOT representative before the Council made
a definitive decision. Mr. Chave agreed.
Councilmember Johnson agreed. She suggested conducting a tour of the area after the retreat.
Councilmember Peterson asked whether the City had much input into what can be done on SR104. For
example, he did not anticipate a bike lane on SR104. Mr. Williams responded the City has some influence
as SR104 serves as a City street and a State highway; WSDOT will make the final decision. He
envisioned the Westgate Plan and transportation study could occur simultaneously.
12. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING IN EXECUTIVE SESSION
COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER YAMAMOTO,
TO ALLOW UP TO $5,000 TO CONTRACT WITH A LAND USE ATTORNEY TO REPRESENT
THE CITY COUNCIL AND PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL LEGAL ADVICE DURING THE
UPCOMING CLOSED RECORD REVIEW OF THE HEARING EXAMINER'S FINAL
DECISION ON THE HILLMAN VARIANCES.
Council President Petso asked whether the motion was to hire an attorney but not specify the attorney.
Councilmember Peterson recalled in a recent quasi-judicial hearing, the City Attorney worked directly
with staff and the Council hired an outside land use attorney to advise them without any appearance of
conflict. The Council will be reviewing the Hearing Examiner's decision in a quasi-judicial setting. It is
best practice to hire an impartial attorney to ensure the public process is as smooth as possible.
COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON MADE THE FOLLOWING AMENDMENT WHICH WAS
ACCEPTED BY COUNCILMEMBER YAMAMOTO:
TO HIRE CAROL MORRIS.
Councilmember Peterson explained the City Council hired Carol Morris to advise the Council during a
previous quasi-judicial matter. She is working on the code rewrite so is very familiar with land use issues
in Edmonds. According to the City Attorney, Ms. Morris is one of the top land use attorneys in the region.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked whether it would be preferable to have the flexibility to hire a land
use attorney rather than specify an attorney. City Attorney Jeff Taraday answered he will inform the
Council at their next meeting if Ms. Morris has a conflict. The Council has appointment authority when
hiring legal counsel unless the Council delegates that authority.
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Councilmember Peterson requested Mr. Taraday provide names of alternate attorneys if Ms. Morris is not
available. Mr. Taraday advised he would.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (4-2), COUNCILMEMBERS PETERSON, FRALEY-
MONILLAS, YAMAMOTO AND JOHNSON VOTING YES, AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT
PETSO AND COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM VOTING NO.
13. REPORT ON OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Councilmember Peterson reported on the Public Facilities District (PFD) Board meeting. He is meeting
with Executive Director Joe McIalwain to review their Strategic Plan before it is forwarded to the City
Council. The PFD Board will be interviewing for two board positions that will be vacated in June. A
reception for the outgoing Board Members Terry Vehrs and John McGibbon will be held in June.
Councilmember Johnson reported she attended the State Historic Preservation conference and plans to
share the information with the members of the Edmonds Historic Preservation Commission.
Councilmember Bloom reported the Tree Board had a presentation from a member of the Floretum
Garden Club regarding a tree exchange between Hekinan, Japan and Edmonds. The Tree Board discussed
the Arbor Day celebration, the Museum Garden Market booth, the Watershed Fun Fair, and difficulties
with new board/commission City email addresses.
Councilmember Bloom reported the Economic Development Commission (EDC) meeting included
discussion regarding:
• Negotiations with additional fiber optic customers
• A second meeting that was held with several businesses interested in providing space for
incubator businesses who would utilize the fiber
• Marine tourism
• Attracting bed and breakfasts to Edmonds
• Update on coal trains
• Business incentives
• How the EDC can support implementation of the Strategic Plan
• Difficulties with board/commission City email addresses
14. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Earling thanked everyone who attended the Memorial Day service. It was a great community
gathering to acknowledge veterans in the community. He estimated 400-500 people attended the service
including at least two Councilmembers.
Mayor Earling advised the Waterfront Festival will be held this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There will
be many food vendors and exhibits.
15. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmember Johnson announced the Business Expo to be held this Saturday at the Conference Center.
The Edmonds Historic Commission will have a booth at the Expo.
Council President Petso advised the other candidate for appointment to the Tree Board arrived late due to
a miscommunication regarding the time.
Council President Petso invited Councilmembers to submit items for the Council's June 17 mini -retreat.
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Councilmember Peterson reported he visited the Marathon Memorial in Boston on Memorial Day. He
found it incredibly moving and touching.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas thanked the Floretum Garden Club for their efforts throughout the City
including working on the flowerbeds. She thanked staff for their work on the flowers as well, noting it
was beginning to look like Edmonds in bloom.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas reported she attended the Memorial Day service. She thanked the Chair
of the ceremony, Dale Hoggins, for his efforts over the years to make that a special ceremony.
16. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:41 p.m.
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