Cm131022EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
October 22, 2013
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Earling in the Council
Chambers, 250 5th Avenue North, Edmonds.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Dave Earling, Mayor
Lora Petso, Council President
Strom Peterson, Councilmember
Joan Bloom, Councilmember
Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
ELECTED OFFICIALS ABSENT
Frank Yamamoto, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Thea Ocfemia, Student Representative
ROLL CALL
STAFF PRESENT
Al Compaan, Police Chief
Jim Lawless, Assistant Police Chief
Stephen Clifton, Community Services/Economic
Development Director
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Roger Neumaier, Finance Director
Carrie Hite, Parks & Recreation Director
Rob Chave, Acting Development Services Dir.
Doug Fair, Municipal Court Judge
Frances Chapin, Cultural Services Manager
Brian Tuley, Information Systems Supervisor
Sarah Mager, Accounting Supervisor
Deb Sharp, Accountant
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Sandy Chase, City Clerk
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst.
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
City Clerk Sandy Chase called the roll. All elected officials were present with the exception of
Councilmembers Yamamoto and Fraley-Monillas*.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON, TO
EXCUSE COUNCILMEMBER YAMAMOTO. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
(Councilmember Fraley-Monillas was not present for the vote.)
(*Councilmember Fraley-Monillas arrived at the meeting at this time.)
2. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING A REAL ESTATE MATTER PER RCW
42.30.110(1)(b), LABOR NEGOTIATIONS PER RCW 42.30.140(4)(b), AND POTENTIAL
LITIGATION PER RCW 42.30.1100)(i).
At 6:03 p.m., Mayor Earling announced that the City Council would meet in executive session regarding
a real estate matter per RCW 42.3 0.11 0(l)(b), labor negotiations per RCW 42.30.140(4)(b), and potential
litigation per RCW 42.30.110(1)(i). He stated that the executive session was scheduled to last
approximately 60 minutes and would be held in the Jury Meeting Room, located in the Public Safety
Complex. He announced action may occur in open session as a result of meeting in executive session.
Elected officials present at the executive session were: Mayor Earling, and Councilmembers Johnson,
Fraley-Monillas, Buckshnis, Peterson, Petso and Bloom. Others present were City Attorney Jeff Taraday,
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 1
Public Works Director Phil Williams, Parks and Recreation Director Carrie Hite, Police Chief Al
Compaan, and City Clerk Sandy Chase. The executive session concluded at 7:00 p.m.
Mayor Earling reconvened the regular City Council meeting at 7:04 p.m. and led the flag salute.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO,
TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON,
TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda
items approved are as follows:
A. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF OCTOBER 15, 2013.
B. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #204872 THROUGH #205011 DATED OCTOBER 17, 2013
FOR $1,093,989.51 (REPLACEMENT CHECKS #204877 $7.00, $204879 $55.76, #204896 $8.00,
#204910 $100.00, #204911 $277.70, #204912 $236.53, #204913 $32.00, #204919 $46.52, #204925
$15.00, #204937 $200.00, #204940 $140.00, #204943 $42.00, #204977 $43.20, #204978 $115.85,
#204991 $75.00, #204992 $186.90, #204993 $1,854.09 & #205009 $130.00). APPROVAL OF
PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSIT AND CHECKS #60521 THROUGH #60535 FOR $446,578.82,
BENEFIT CHECKS #60536 THROUGH #60543 AND WIRE PAYMENTS OF $193,247.37 FOR
THE PERIOD OCTOBER 1, 2013 THROUGH OCTOBER 15, 2013.
C. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIMS FOR DAMAGES FROM MICHELLE BAILLET
AND GUY FINEOUT (AMOUNT UNDETERMINED), CHRISTY CUFLEY, ON BEHALF OF
POINT EDWARDS APPELLANTS ($1,333.00), AND GARY REYNOLDS ($500,000.00).
D. COMMUNITY SERVICES / ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT QUARTERLY
REPORT - OCTOBER, 2013
5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Dale Hoggins, Edmonds, speaking on behalf of the Cemetery Board, invited the community to celebrate
Veteran's Day at the Edmonds Memorial Cemetery on Monday, November It, 2013 at 11:00 a.m, for a
walkabout, a guided tour of veteran's gravesites and memorials. On Memorial Day and Veteran's Day,
each veteran site is marked with a US flag. Over 400 veterans from the Edmonds and Snohomish County
area, whose military service date back to the Civil War, are buried or memorialized in the cemetery.
Attendees are invited to share a story of a friend or family member. Anyone with questions may call him
at 425-776-1543.
Al Rutledge, Edmonds, relayed his research regarding coal trains, reporting community meetings have
been held and another meeting will be held this week or next at the train terminal. He reported
Bellingham citizens were told the only way to stop coal trains was to get a minimum of 10,000 signatures.
He suggested those interested in stopping coal trains start a petition drive in Edmonds.
Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, disagreed with Mayor Earling's statement on page 2 of the October 8, 2013
minutes that had Mr. Hertrich waited for the conversation to continue, he would be after him with a 2-
page narrative. After Mayor Earling's comments, Mr. Hertrich stayed for the Finance Committee meeting
and Mayor Earling left the room; there was no opportunity for providing the 2-page narrative. Mr.
Hertrich found the 2-page narrative meaningless because it has no heading and no signature. Next, he
explained the Code of Conduct does not cover the Mayor. Following the incident with Mayor Earling, he
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 2
contacted Human Resources and was told none of the City's policies address the issue. He recalled a letter
dated April 24, 2013 from Mayor Earling regarding a comment he (Mr. Hertrich) made to a citizen that
was interpreted as harassment of a City employee. As a commission member he was covered by the
City's anti -harassment policy. He summarized the City's policies needed to be upgraded to cover
employees and elected officials.
6. PRESENTATION: SNOHOMISH COUNTY GRANTS $80,000 TO EDMONDS FOR CITY PARK
PROJECT.
Mayor Earling relayed the City successfully competed for funds for a Snohomish County grant related to
a City Park project. Snohomish County Council Chair Stephanie Wright and her son presented an $80,000
check to Edmonds for the project.
Tom Teigen, Snohomish County Parks Director, commented he has had the good fortune of working
with Carrie Hite in the past, noting that the City has an amazing Parks & Recreation Director. He relayed
Executive Lovick has been amazing to work with over the past 140 days; he is very supportive of
partnerships and working with Snohomish County's 19 cities and towns. Council Chair Wright has been
unbelievably supportive of parks and working with neighboring cities and counties; she is a great
representative for South County.
Snohomish County Council Chair Stephanie Wright thanked the Edmonds team for being great
partners regionally with regard to parks, the health board, transportation, etc.
John Lovick, Snohomish County Executive, said communities should be about parks. He also
recognized Police Chief Al Compaan for his 35 years of service, commenting he has never worked with a
more professional person. He is a true professional in the profession that he has been honored to serve in.
7. MAYOR'S PRESENTATION TO POLICE CHIEF AL COMPAAN ON HIS 35TH
ANNIVERSARY WITH THE CITY.
Mayor Earling commented this is a rare opportunity to recognize a man who started with the Edmonds
Police Department 35 years ago, working his way up from the ground to the top. He has exuded
professionalism and is the longest serving police officer in Edmonds. He recognized Chief Compaan's
wife Anne, and his mother Phyllis and her husband Larry in the audience. Mayor Earling presented Chief
Compaan an award recognizing his 35 years of service to the Edmonds community.
Chief Compaan recognized his wife Anne who makes his day-to-day existence possible, and his mother
who made him possible. He said it has been an honor to serve the City, it has been a great place to work,
with wonderful staff. He appreciated the staff who attended this presentation and the kind words from the
community, noting the pluses of the job outweigh the minuses.
Several members of the Police Department and Police Explorers were in the audience.
8. NATIONAL ARTS & HUMANITIES MONTH PROCLAMATION
Mayor Earling read a proclamation proclaiming October as National Arts and Humanities Month in
Edmonds. He presented the proclamation to Arts Commission Members Samantha Saether and Lois
Rathvon.
Cultural Services Manager Frances Chapin thanked the Mayor, Council and citizens for the many ways
they support arts and culture in the community. October is Arts and Humanities Month and many
activities and events are offered including the successful Write on the Sound Writer's Conference that the
Art Commission has hosted for 28 years.
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October 22, 2013
Page 3
9. ANNUAL REPORT - PUBLIC DEFENDER
Public Defender James Feldman recalled for the past 4-5 years his annual report has included warnings of
changes to come; those changes are here and the City needs to recognize and act on them. The change is
the implementation of public defender standards by the Washington State Supreme Court and Washington
State Bar Association. The Supreme Court is no longer willing to allow cities to determine what
constitutes a sufficient level of representation; the Court is requiring attorneys and officers of the court to
attest that they meet certain standards. Feldman Lee meets the standards now but over the past year has
provided services for which they have not been adequately compensated; that cannot continue for
business reasons and as members of the Bar Association. The City is at risk for being assessed the
remedies that the federal court has assessed Mt. Vernon and Burlington such as imposing monitors to
ensure adequate funding is available to the public defender to cover the assigned caseload.
Last year the City was provided an outline based on an analysis of the caseload that indicated the public
defender was 1 %-2 attorneys away from meeting the caseload standards as proposed at that time;
implementation has been delayed to January 1, 2015. He was concerned the numbers could be used to
question whether they are providing exemplary service based on the amount of funding and the caseload.
Feldman Lee represents seven cities; Edmonds is the last to enter into negotiations regarding the
standards. He requested the City enter into negotiations to review the contract, and reach a new funding
agreement. There has not been a change in funding since 1985. They are now required by the standards
imposed by the Court to have increased staffing levels, access to investigation and to limit the number of
cases attorneys handle.
Council President Petso asked when the standards go into effect. Mr. Feldman answered 12 standards
were implemented. The first states public defender agencies must be funded sufficiently to provide
adequate service. A caseload standard defined the level of service; 300 cases on a weighted system or 400
on an un-weighted system. Those standards were due to be implemented September 1, 2013 and have
been postponed to January 1, 2015.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented Mr. Feldman did not provide a report regarding the work done
over the past year. Mr. Feldman advised they provide monthly reports to the Court regarding cases
assigned and their disposal. Councilmember Buckshnis recalled Mr. Feldman provided a detailed report
last year. Mr. Feldman advised Judge Fair presented a report last year regarding the number of cases and a
proposal. Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether the 500 cases Feldman Lee handled this year were
weighted. Mr. Feldman answered Edmonds does not have a weighted system.
10. ANNUAL REPORT - CITY ATTORNEY
City Attorney Jeff Taraday advised his report would cover the period October 1, 2013 — September 30,
2013. He described "Team Edmonds" and topics each of them handles:
• Jeff Taraday
o City Council and Management Meetings
o Elected Official Advice
o Land Use
o Litigation
o Coordination/Miscellaneous
o Office Hours Twice a Week
• Sharon Cates
o Labor and Employment
o Contracts and ILAs
o Bidding and Procurement
o Litigation
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o Office Hours Once a Week
• Patricia Taraday
o Public Records Act Compliance
o Code Enforcement
o Litigation
o Office Hours Once a Week
• Rosa Fruehling-Watson
o Labor and Employment
• Beth Ford
o Research
o Writing
o Litigation (Syd Locke, Humann)
o Office Hours Once a Week
• Other Attorneys
o Mike Bradley — Franchising (Astound Zayo) and fiber optics
o Susan Drummond — Land Use, GMHB
o Kathie O'Hanlon — Labor and Employment
o Chuck Wolfe — MTCA, Form Based Code
Mr. Taraday reviewed Lighthouse statistics
• 3,104 hours worked by the team
• $384,000 in legal fees (flat fee unchanged since March 2011)
• $124 average effective hourly rate
Mr. Taraday reviewed the Top Seven Most Resource Intensive activities:
1.
City Council
417 hours
2.
Precision Earthworks (resolved)
339 hours
3.
Human Resources
323 hours
4.
Development Services
312 hours
5.
Locke v. Edmonds
310 hours
6.
Humann v. Edmonds (admin matter resolved)
278 hours
7.
Police
254 hours
With regard to the City Council being at the top of the list, Mr. Taraday commented he did not want this
list viewed as critical of the City Council's use of the City Attorney. He thinks of Lighthouse as one of
the Council's most valuable assets; one of the City Attorney's primary roles is to assist the Council in
achieving its policy objectives.
Mr. Taraday advised he was asked to talk about pending litigation, specifically pending litigation that
Lighthouse is handling rather than WCIA:
• Syd Locke
o Declaratory Judgment, Negligence, Breach of Contract, Trespass/Inverse Condemnation,
Consumer Protection, Harassment
o Arising from City's code enforcement efforts in early 2000s
o Motion for Summary Judgment scheduled for November 1, 2013
o Next steps could include mediation and/or trial
• New Cingular Wireless (federal court)
o Declaratory judgment claim seeking $117,000 tax refund
o Unjust enrichment
o Due process clause allegation relating to failure to provide clear post -payment relief
• Five Corners Roundabout Condemnations
o Anderson
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o Lakeshore Investment Corporation
• Teamsters Arbitration
o February 2014
o Water watch truck
• Kim Cole EEOC
o Awaiting word on whether she will be allowed more time to appeal the June 11, 2013 Order
dismissing her EEOC claim
Mr. Taraday reviewed litigation completed by Lighthouse in the last 12 months:
• Precision Earthworks
o Dispute with contractor arising from construction of Haines Wharf Park
o Settled:
■ $325,000 + $9,100 to Precision
■ $130,000 to Kulchin
■ $35,000 from Gray &Osborne
• Debi Humann
o Administrative whistleblower claim (federal court pending/WCIA)
o City offered judgment with was accepted for a total of approximately $90,000
• Olson v. City of Edmonds (LUPA)
o Voluntarily dismissed, no liability to City
• New Cingular Wireless (federal court pending)
o Voluntarily dismissed, re -filed in federal court
• Meiers v. City of Edmonds
o Settled for $94,000 and $25,000 of in -kind consideration
o Dismissal pending
o WCIA agreed to pay $30,000 toward settlement
Mr. Taraday reviewed the City's use of other law firms (optional), noting with the exception of WCIA,
these are matters the City Attorney's office could handle:
• Stephanie Alexander of Michael & Alexander
o Machado arbitration - $37,000
• Carol Morris of Morris Law
o Hillman closed record review - $5,000
o Point Edward Building 10 closed record review - $1,000 ($5,000 authorized to -date)
o Proportionate share of model land use code - $10,000 ($40,000 authorized to date)
• Foster Pepper
o Water/Sewer Revenue Bonds - $40,000 (not included in Lighthouse scope of work)
• Sofia Mabee of Summit Law Group
o Consulting on Teamsters' grievance - $1,000 ($5,000 authorized)
• WCIA appointed counsel (not optional)
Mr. Taraday advised he was asked to provide a summary of recent code amendments. He provided the
following examples:
• Easement that can be retained as part of street vacation
• "Reasonable economic use" definition (interim)
• Allowed uses in CAO (interim — multiple drafts)
• Extending the life of short plats
• Park Impact Fees
• Downtown BID
• Chapter 2.10 (in progress)
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October 22, 2013
Page 6
Mr. Taraday relayed he was asked to review recommended code amendments. He noted this was a very
short list because there frankly is no end to the code amendment work that needs to be done. He identified
the following recommended code amendments:
• Continue with incorporation of model code
o Lighthouse has had limited role so far
o Will analyze and may propose revisions before these are brought to City Council
• Design review process
Appeal process
o Example: Edmonds may be only City in Washington that allows people who spoke at the
open record hearing but are not appellants to speak at a closed record appeal
Tree related codes
Councilmember Buckshnis expressed appreciation for Mr. Taraday's and his team's work. She referred to
Title 20 and supported the Council allowing citizens to have a voice. She referenced the Hillman issue as
an example where it was discovered the code needed to be corrected.
Mr. Taraday referred to Mr. Feldman's comments about the changes to the public defender. He explained
there is a bigger picture issue; it is not just how many public defenders or how they are paid. There are
other questions such as whether the City wants to continue to prosecute in the same way. Currently
Edmonds police officers have direct filing which is very unusual. Many jurisdictions send police reports
to the prosecutor and the prosecutor decides whether and how to file the case. The way that many
jurisdictions, including Seattle, are avoiding the increased cost of public defense is creating a process
where Driving with License Suspended is never filed; it is a pre -filing diversion program that is filed
essentially as an infraction instead of a criminal matter and therefore there is no right to counsel or
appointment of a public defender. He acknowledged it is a complex matter and there may be other
ramifications of that process that might not work for Edmonds.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas inquired about citizen contact with the City Attorney's office. Mr.
Taraday answered as a general rule the City Attorney does not respond to citizens directly unless asked to
do so by the Council or the Mayor. It is not feasible for them to respond directly to citizen requests
without a gatekeeper; they rely on the Mayor and Council to provide that gatekeeping function. There is
also an issue of appropriateness with responding directly to citizens because there is no attorney -client
privilege or relationship with those citizens.
11. APPOINTMENT OF CANDIDATES TO EDMONDS CITIZENS' TREE BOARD.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPOINT RENE TRAVIS AND BARBARA BROOKE HARRELL TO THE
TREE BOARD. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
12. BUDGET WORK SESSION - DEPARTMENT PRESENTATIONS AND PUBLIC COMMENT.
Mayor Earling suggested questions be limited following each department's presentation and
Councilmembers direct questions to the appropriate staff member over the next week.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to the "yes/no" indicator for one time on the decision packages and
asked who decided whether it was/was not a one time. Finance Director Roger Neumaier advised he
would respond to that during the presentation.
Mr. Neumaier explained presentations would be made by department heads regarding their budgets. He
provided context regarding the budget:
• The information shared this evening is consistent with the aggregate forecast delivered to the
Council in July.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 7
• The budget picture for Edmonds has improved for 2014 because of:
o Difficult decisions made in prior years to live within available resources.
o A moderately improved economy.
• The future is still uncertain; however our circumstances are better than they have been in several
years.
Mr. Neumaier provided the following comments regarding the economic environment:
• We are out of a period of what had become an annual decline in real resources.
• Inflation is under control — for now.
• The Puget Sound economy is one of the healthiest in the country.
• Home values are increasing and housing sales have rebounded.
• We anticipate stable, modest growth over the next few years.
• The possibility of economic volatility due to a broad variety of factors means that we need to
continue to be cautious.
Mr. Neumaier relayed the following with regard to decision packages:
• Changes in expenditures that employ policy decisions are expressed as decision packages.
• There are 51 decision packages.
• Funding for these decision packages is included in the budgets for each department and fund in
the recommended budget.
• Decision packages are listed on pages 31 and 32 of the budget book and also referenced in the
narratives of departments they affect.
Mr. Neumaier relayed the following with regarding to 2014/2013 all funds:
• New expenditures tend to focus on Edmonds Strategic Plan priorities.
• One-time investments address deferred operational or maintenance issues and improve systematic
efficiency or effectiveness.
• No fundamental changes in departmental priorities.
• Caution in increasing expenditures with the recognition that the economy still can be volatile.
• We don't want to have to make severe cuts in future years because we spend too much now.
Mr. Neumaier provided a comparison of expenditures for all funds:
Fund
2012
2013
2013
2014
Change
14-13
Change
14-13
Actuals
Budget
Estimate
Budget
Estimate
General Fund
35,040,490
34,830,213
33,978,978
39,461,132
5,482,154
16.13%
Special Revenue Funds
6,840,953
13,806,093
7,679,116
17,358,808
9,679,692
126.05%
Debt Service Funds
9,494,656
1,032,032
1,039,490
1,051,290
11,800
1.14%
Enterprise Funds
20,195,277
32,061,229
26,378,181
30,132,680
3,754,499
14.23%
Equipment Rental Fund
1,177,770
1,095,372
1,022,711
979,579
43,132
-4.22%
Firemen's Pension Fund
89,480
108,790
89,585
89,615
30
0.03%
72,838,626
82,933,729
$70,188,061
$89,073,104
$18,885,043
26.91%
Mr. Neumaier provided a comparison of General Fund revenues 2013 — 2014:
• General Fund revenues are up by 7% or almost $2.4 million over projected year end revenues for
2013.
• Of that $2.4 million or 7%:
o Over $700,000 or 2% results from treating conservatively anticipated under -expenditures as a
resource.
o Increased fees revenues account for over $200,000 or 0.6%
o Reimbursements for two engineering services positions from the street and utility funds
account for almost $200 thousand or 0.6%.
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October 22, 2013
Page 8
o Increases in Emergency Medical Services property tax (which is still 77% of 2009 levels)
was about $200,000 or another 0.6%.
Thus the increases for all other areas amount to $1.1 Million or 2.8% increase over projected
2013 levels.
Mr. Neumaier reviewed 2014 General Fund key revenue drivers:
2013
2014
%
Revenue
YE Est
Recomm.
Variance
Discussion
General
9,781,109
9,902,273
121,164
1.2%
Assumes 2013 base and 1% levy increase
Property Tax
EMS
2,775,282
2,976,287
201,005
7.2%
Valuation growth
Property Tax
Local Retail
5,287,664
5,525,609
237,945
4.5%
Below current trend
Sales Tax
Mr. Neumaier provided the following with regard to the 2013-2014 comparison of General Fund
expenditures:
• The 2014 General Fund Expenditure Budget is 16.2% larger than the 2013 estimated year end
expenditure.
o The 2014 budget includes anticipated under -expenditures — that has a 2% impact.
o It includes transfers to increase 2014 year end risk management and contingency reserve fund
balances to their required levels — that has a 3.5% impact.
o It includes new dollars to address needs in our street funds — this has a 2.2% impact.
o And the General Fund budget includes about $1.4 million in one-time projects — this has a
4.1 % impact.
Without the increases referenced above, the projected increase for General Fund expenditures
over 2013 projected year end is 4.4%.
We believe this is a prudent budget and the specific one-time new investments and ongoing
increases that you will hear about today will make sense.
He commented on the 2011-2019 General Fund Financial Plan:
• 2011-2019 Financial Plan is a combination of-
* 2011 and 2012 history
0 2013 projection
0 2014 recommended budget
o & 2015-2019 projections.
The plan provides a high level view of where we are and where we are going from a financial
perspective if there are no major unanticipated changes in the economy, revenues or expenditures.
Located on page 16 and 17 of the budget book.
Mr. Neumaier distributed and reviewed the Strategic Outlook Total Revenues & Expenditures 2011-2019
Analysis and the Strategic Outlook General Fund Fund Balance 2011-2019 Analysis. He also provided a
comparison of REET revenues that included a 5-year average, and 2012 actual 2013. He summarized
REET revenues are improving and are an excellent indicator of an improving economy. He noted 2013
REET revenues are 30% higher than 2011 and 42% than the 5-year average.
Municipal Court
Municipal Court Judge Doug Fair reviewed 2013 accomplishments:
• Worked through increased caseload with less staffing.
• Able to backfill loss of part-time position without increase in overall City budget.
• Begin exploring electronic file management system.
• Added back one day to passport processing.
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October 22, 2013
Page 9
Judge Fair identified challenges in the Municipal Court:
• Caseload increase if/when police positions are reinstated.
• Can the court integrate with laserfiche software as the platform for an electronic file management
system?
• Balancing core functions while providing extra services, such as processing passport applications.
• Integrating new public defender standards.
Judge Fair reviewed Municipal Court expenditures:
2013
2013 YE
2014
Expenditures
Modified
Estimate
Recomm.
Discussion
Budget
Professional
27,000
36,000
37,000
Increase related to decision to have court -
Services
Room security at video hearings
(Security)
Interpreter
20,000
17,000
18,000
2013 estimated decrease due to grouping
Expense
Some language interpreters on special
calendars
Miscellaneous
18,000
15,000
36,000
Increase for electronic file management
system (DP). Funded via Court Improvement
Account Funds.
Judge Fair reviewed Municipal Court revenues:
2013
2013 YE
2014
Revenues
Modified
Estimate
Recomm.
Discussion
Budget
Parking
35,790
55,550
50,228
Estimated increase directly related to increase in written
tickets. As of today, 7% increase from 2012
Infractions
260,199
351,476
303,000
Estimated increase directly related to increase in written
tickets. As of today there is a 44% increase from 2012
Councilmember Buckshnis observed salaries and benefits increased 15-19%. Judge Fair advised the only
increases have been as approved in contracts. The increase may be due to restoring the 0.5 FTE.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas inquired about passport revenue. Judge Fair advised revenue was
approximately $10,000 - $12,000/year. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas observed if additional hours
were allocated specifically to passport processing it would not pay for itself. Judge Fair agreed.
City Clerk
City Clerk Sandy Chase advised there are 4.5 staff members in the City Clerk's office. She reviewed 2013
accomplishments:
• Laserfiche (document management system) installed; training of staff occurred and significant
progress has been made in importing and scanning records.
• Ongoing public records training — i.e., Public Works Department, City Council, regular public
records tips
New City Clerk recruited
Ms. Chase reviewed challenges:
• Continued implementation of Laserfiche
• Email Management — Citywide
• Resources for Public Records Disclosure
• Staffing/leave issues
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October 22, 2013
Page 10
• Management of Archive Centers
She reviewed expenditures and revenues:
2013
2013 YE
2014
Expenditures
Modified
Estimate
Recomm.
Discussion
Budget
One-time $60,000 removed for
Total
586,831
576,220
537,273
Document Management
System
Revenues
General Business License
106,297
106,297
107,360
Non Resident Business License
39,274
53,429
53,963
Residential and Visitor Parking
4,600
4,600
13,300
Increase in fee, see decision
package
Ms. Chase reviewed the City Clerk's decision package/change:
• DP #7: Increase annual fee for Residential and Visitor Parking Permits from $10 to $25
Councilmember Buckshnis observed 2013 and 2014 salaries were the same; however, Ms. Chase's salary
was at the top level and Mr. Passey would not be at that level. Ms. Chase offered to research.
Mayor's Office
Mr. Neumaier reviewed 2013 accomplishments:
• Success in improving Edmonds financial position
• Progress in economic development in many areas of the city
• Improved function of Development Services and Engineering areas
• Continued success in pursuing and receiving grants for infrastructure and parks needs
• Improved communication with press releases, re-establishment of the newsletter, and State of the
City presentation
He reviewed 2013 challenges:
• Continued vigilance of Edmonds long-term financial needs
• Maintaining Edmonds commitment to long-term transportation needs
• Diversification of tax base
• Identifying a long-term vision to coordinate with the city's mission statement
• Continue to improve city communication with the public
He reviewed the Mayor's Office budget, noting the only changes are mandated increases:
2013
2013 YE
2014
Expenditures
Modified
Estimate
Recomm.
Discussion
Budget
Total
240,638
240,638
251,085
Human Resources
Reporting Human Resources Director Carrie Hite reviewed 2013 accomplishments:
• Transition to new Health Insurance Plan
• Transition to new Medicare supplemental plan for LEOFF 1 retirees.
• Updated website, including all policies, CBA's, job descriptions, salary and wage information,
benefit plans, contracts, etc.
• Completed Anti -harassment training for all employees
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 11
Ms. Hite recognized the Human Resources team, HR Manager MaryAnn Hardie and HR Analysis
Yvonne Chan. She reviewed challenges:
• Staffing capacity (decision package)
• Applications
• New systems requiring some:
o Paperwork (i.e. LEOFF, Medical
o Insurance, L & I claims)
Ms. Hite reviewed Human Resources expenditures:
2013
2013 YE
2014
Expenditures
Modified
Estimate
Recomm.
Discussion
Budget
Human Resources
281,378
256,636
326,758
DP 42 — applicant tracking
DP#3 — Worker's Compensation
consultant
DP 44 — art -time employee
Ms. Hite reviewed Human Resources revenue (savings):
Expenditures
2013
Modified
Budget
2013 YE
Estimate
2014
Recomm.
Discussion
Medical Benefits
300,000
300,000
150,000
LEOFF Benefits
180,000
180,000
180,000
L & I Claims
20,000
20,000
100,000
Ms. Hite reviewed Human Resources decision packages:
• DP #2: Applicant Tracking
o $12,080. Offer online applications and tracking.
• DP #3: Workers Compensation Consultant
o $12,000. This will save approx. $100,000 in premium costs
• DP #4: Part time Employee
o $24,898 — Funds a .5 FTE to process all paperwork connected to medical/LEOFF/and
workers compensation changes.
• DP #5: Longevity
o $31,900 — Funds longevity incentives for non -represented employees, to be consistent with
other employees in the city. This is reflected in non -departmental.
Councilmember Buckshnis inquired about the LEOFF reserve. Ms. Hite answered she could not comment
on that yet. The reserve was reduced to $350,000 last year. There was a discussion at today's Disability
Board Meeting; she offered to get back to Council with an answer. Councilmember Buckshnis inquired
about the change in salaries. Ms. Hite answered it was primarily due to the .5 FTE decision package.
Community Services & Economic Development
Community Services/Economic Development Director Stephen Clifton reviewed 2013 accomplishments:
• Edmonds Downtown Business Improvement District (EDP Goal 2, Policy 2e)
• City of Edmonds Strategic Action Plan
• Comcast Franchise Agreement (revenue for CC Chamber equipment)
• Amendments to ECC 4.90 and ECDC Titles 16 and 20 (SAP 2a.2 )
• Amendments to BD Zones (approved)
• Paint the Town (EDP Goal 2, Policy 2J)
• Marketing
• Tourism Video
• 105 stall commuter rail parking lot
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 12
Mr. Clifton reviewed challenges:
• Implementation of Strategic Action Plan
• Recruitment / Retention / Expansion of Businesses
• Helping Edmonds Downtown Business Improvement District Transition to Self Sufficiency
• Diversifying the City's Tax Base
• Improving Communication with the Public (SAP - 5b.2)
• Improvement of Permitting Process (SAP - 5a.2 )
• Highway 99 — Launching New Initiatives
• Westgate and Five Corners Special District Studies
• Securing Grants
Mr. Clifton reviewed department expenditures:
2013
2013 YE
2014
Expenditures
Modified
Estimate
Recomm.
Discussion
Budget
Comm Sery
44,044
35,670
40,224
Past EG grant not spent ($3,924)
Professional Services
(+3,924)
Mike Doubleday contract ($630)
+630
Econ Dev
21,210
21,210
65,600
DP 19 - Half time contracted position
Professional Services
(+40,000)
DP 18 — Contracted social media
+4,800position
Econ Dev
24,000
24,000
39,000
DP 19 - Half time contracted position
Advertising
(+15,000)
Mr. Clifton reviewed decision packages:
• DP #18: $4,800
o Contracting for online communication via Facebook, Google and You Tube
o Ties to Strategic Action Plan - Action 5.b.2
• DP #19: $55,000 ($40K contract - $15K Advertising)
o Half-time contracted person to provide information on City economic development and arts
for one year
o Ties to Strategic Action Plan -Actions Id, 1 d.l & 2, le, 1 e.1 -7, and 5.b.2
Councilmember Buckshnis recalled discussions regarding a new logo. Mr. Clifton recalled Roger Brooks
did not recommend the City or elected officials be involved with branding. Members of DEMA and the
Chamber of Commerce are interested in pursuing branding. He envisioned the half-time contracted person
participating in that effort.
Finance & Information Services
Finance Director Roger Neumaier reviewed Finance Department 2013 accomplishments:
• The 2012 Annual Financial Report received no findings or management letters.
• Water, Storm, & Sewer Utilities were separated into their own funds. This was a complex
adjustment that was not completed until September.
• The quality of the work done during the year is a reflection of the professionalism of the staff.
• The Finance Department transitioned through three directors in 2013 — and survived!
• Moved $10 million into Snohomish County Investment Pool increasing return to the City.
Mr. Neumaier reviewed Finance Department challenges:
• A goal for 2014 will be to document operational procedures and guidelines within the Finance
Department and for our internal customers.
• We intend to work in support of the Edmonds PFD in improving the caliber of their accounting
and internal controls.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 13
We will also be looking at our automated budget system to determine if we can improve the
efficiency of our budget process without significant cost.
Such an improvement would allow the City to incorporate more innovative mechanisms and
would help make possible outcome base budgeting.
Keep up with workload!
Information Systems Supervisor Brian Tuley described 2013 Information Systems accomplishments
• Clerk's Document Management
• Redundancy for the WWTP systems
• Hosted Payment Solutions that meet legal and financial requirements.
• Improve Documentation to manage technology tools effectively.
o Systems
o Assets
o Infrastructure
Mr. Tuley reviewed Information Systems challenges:
• Business Continuity — Make sure systems available and information is secure.
o Security and threat protection
o Disaster recovery
• Strategic Asset Planning
o Leverage infrastructure versus new acquisition to assure invest in right products and multiple
users benefit whenever possible.
• Compliance with legal and other required levels of security.
Mr. Neumaier reviewed Finance and Information Services expenditures:
Expenditures
2013
Modified
Budget
2013 YE
Estimate
2014
Recomm.
Discussion
Salaries
669,370
681,841
778,376
DP - IS staff and intern
12 months of director salary
Benefits
214,100
221,484
255,363
Supplies & Equipment
208,200
152,587
206,590
DP — IS equipment
Repair & Maintenance
171,750
155,924
180,986
All Other Charges
255,098
236,060
223,970
Total Budget
1,518,518
1,447,896
1,645,285
Mr. Tuley reviewed Information Systems Decision Packages/Changes:
• DP #8: Hosted Credit Card Systems
o $5,500 - removes credit cards from internal systems to meet legal requirements.
• DP #9: GIS Web Maps
o $16,400 - web access for mapped information to map underground water pipes.
o Partially funded with proposed fee increase.
o Self-service web portals support Edmonds Strategic Objective 5b.1: Public Access
• DP #10: Part time to Full Time IT staff
o $33,800 - makes existing half-time position full time and will allow department to meet
existing service level expectations.
• DP #11: Police Department Monitoring
o $10,000 -adds 2 cameras and video recording capacity at Police Department to meet capacity
and security requirements.
• DP #12: Secure Network Segment
o $35,000 - segregates web exposed systems from network to provide citizen self-service
access to mapping data across City GIS systems.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 14
o Packages 11 and 12directly support Edmonds Strategic Action Plan 5c.1 Safe and secure
environment
• DP #13: Backup System
o $21,000 -hardware and software for data backup system will reduce risk to the City of major
loss of data.
Mr. Neumaier advised the above decision packages that Mayor Earling has included in the budget are not
a wish list. They are fundamental and basic needs for the security of the City. He reviewed Financial
Services Decision Packages/Changes:
• DP #14: College / Graduate Student Internship
o $10,000 to Focus on documentation of Financial Services (as well as Information Services)
Policies, Procedures and User Documentation.
o Improve efficiency and reduce audit concerns.
Mr. Neumaier advised Finance is also responsible for the budget of several other small funds:
• LEOFF Medical
• Risk Management
• Contingency Reserve
• Employee Parking
• Clerk's Processing Service Fee Adjustment
• LID and Debt Service Funds
• Fireman's Pension to Actuarial recommended level
Councilmember Buckshnis observed salaries increased $100,000; only $50,000 is due to the Finance
Director. Mr. Neumaier answered the increase represents a full year of the director's salary, an intern and
increasing a part-time employee to full-time as well as normal salary increases.
Non -Departmental
Finance Director Roger Neumaier explained Non -Departmental is used to segregate all costs not directly
identifiable to departments and those expenditures and services that are required by law or contract that
are beneficial to all citizens. The Finance Department provides oversight to the Non -Departmental
budget. 2013 Estimated Expenditures are 97.4% of budget:
Expenditures
2013
Modified
Budget
2013 YE
Estimate
2014
Recomm.
Discussion
Public Defender
270,000
135,000
170,000
Cost trended down
Liability & Property his
396,193
396,193
379,784
WCIA rates
Miscellaneous
55,156
55,156
455,708
Includes $400,000 for optional Council
decision packages
Snocom/New World
817,064
817,064
888,768
Debt Service
1,201,223
1,196,223
1,227,091
EPFD Contingency
Reserve
190,000
180,000
180 000
Transfer to Other Funds
1,575,185
1,402,250
3 864 087
Other ND Expenditures
7,661,583
7,662,900
8,012,705
Total Expenditures
12,166,404
11,844,786
15,178,143
Mr. Neumaier reviewed transfers within the General Fund related to law enforcement medical, risk
management, General Fund Contingency Reserve, building maintenance. He also reviewed key transfers
to other funds including REET, Debt Service, Cemetery Fund, Street Fund, Street Construction Fund,
Fireman's Pension, and Municipal Arts Fund. He reviewed decision packages/changes included in Non -
Departmental, noting each are discussed in department budgets with the exception of DP #46.
• DP #5: GF ($32K) Longevity Program proposed through Human Resources.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 15
• DP #24: GF ($40K) - Parks support services for Cemetery.
• DP #25:
GF ($20K) — Parks Arts Commission
• DP #36:
REET I ($450k); REET 11($300K); & GF ($450K) -
• Public Works Pavement Preservation Program
• DP #37:
GF $300K - Road Operations Funding
• DP #38.
39 & 40: GF ($623K); Public Works Facilities Infrastructure Major Maintenance
Projects.
• DP #46:
GF ($400K); REET I ($200k); Reserves for Council Designated Projects.
• DP #47:
GF ($725K); 2% Under -Expenditures Resource
• DP #48:
Transfers to General Fund sub -funds detailed earlier.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to Decision Package #47, 2% General Fund under -expenditure. Mr.
Neumaier responded decision packages include anything related to a decision.
Mayor Earling commented putting together the 2014 budget has been an incredibly positive experience.
The City has amazingly qualified management staff. All presenters worked with him and Mr. Neumaier to
develop their budget presentations and he was continually amazed by their competency and the care they
have for the City.
Mayor Earling declared a brief recess.
Council
Council President Petso described Council 2013 accomplishments and challenges:
• Accomplishment:
o Live broadcasting of City Council meetings
• Challenge:
o No back up for the Senior Executive Council Assistant who video records meetings
Council President Petso reviewed the 2014 Council budget:
• No proposed changes in Council salaries.
• 1.4% increase for the Council Assistant which is consistent with nonrepresented employees.
• Overtime has been reduced from prior years based on changes made by Council last year and the
Council Assistant's scheduling of her time
• With the exception of professional services, all amounts are the same as last year
Council President Petso reviewed Council decision packages:
• DP #42: Move City Attorney costs into one major line item
• DP #1: $10,000 — Attorneys for closed record review or other professional services
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether $10,000 would be enough. Council President Petso answered it
was difficult to predict.
Development Services
Acting Development Services Director Rob Chave reviewed 2013 accomplishments:
• Permit activity — i.e. number of building permits — is at an all-time high.
• Permit revenue is below the peak years of 2004-2007, but is rebounding from recession levels.
• Significant projects will elevate permit revenue over the next year, primarily related to Swedish -
Edmonds.
• The budget includes proposed fee increases, based on a more thorough analysis of direct and
overhead costs. The result improves cost recovery and moves fee levels to be more in line with
other cities.
• With reduced staffing, continuing to support strategic plan initiatives and Council, board &
commission work.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 16
Mr. Chave reviewed challenges:
• Code re -organization project is proceeding, but is still challenging to devote sufficient staff time
to complete (decision packages attempt to address this challenge).
• Permit activity per employee is at an all-time high. This is not sustainable at current staffing
levels (decision packages attempt to address this challenge).
• At lowest staffing level since 1990. Staff downsizing for 2013 has resulted in slower permit
review times (decision packages attempt to address this challenge).
He provided a comparison of building permits issues and revenue through September and building
permits per Development Services enniplo ee. He reviewed Development Services expenditures:
Expenditures
2013
Modified
Budget
2013 YE
Estimate
2014
Recomm.
Discussion
Salaries
1,032 549
997,094
11255,706
DP 41, 21 and 23
Benefits
358,465
348 186
459,602
+324 294
Total Department
1,653,042
1,565,133,
1,938,960
+285,918
Mr. Chave reviewed Develo ment Services revenue:
2013
2013 YE
2014
Revenue
Modified
Estimate
Recomm.
Discussion
Budget
Construction Permit
430,000
510,000
654,045
Swedish+
Permit Fees (net increase)
--
--
+183,185
DP 20
Mr. Chave reviewed decision packages/changes:
• DP#41: New Development Services Director
o Ongoing $198,221 in 2014 ($178,221 in 2015+)
• DP#20: Adjustments to Development Fees
o Ongoing revenue, $183,185 in 2014+
• DP#21: Hire a Plan Check/Inspector in Building
o Ongoing $68,170 in 2014+
• DP#22: GMA Critical Areas Ordinance
o Two-year study: $40,000 in 2014, $40,000 in 2015
• DP#23: Building plan coordinator hiring overlap
o One-time $12,055 in 2014
Councilmember Bloom thanked Mr. Chave for working in two positions as well as overseeing the code
rewrite. She observed there were no additional funds allocated in the 2014 budget for the code rewrite.
Mr. Chave stated his intent was to allow the new Development Services Director to review and make
recommendations. The Council may want to include funds in the 2014 budget for the new director's
recommendations.
Councilmember Buckshnis recalled last year the Council approved $75,000 for 2013 and $75,000 for
2014. She asked if the $75,000 was in professional services. Mr. Chave answered it was not.
Councilmember Buckshnis recommended adding that amount. Mr. Chave anticipated Ms. Morris will be
75% done and will have billed the City for $30,000 of the $40,000 budgeted in 2013; the additional
$10,000 will likely be spent in 2014. The $75,000 budget was an estimate of what it might take to get the
job done. He was uncertain what other consultants would need to be hired. Staff will need to revise items
that are outside Ms. Morris' ability such as zoning standards. The Development Services Director
position may be able to do some of the work which could significantly reduce the $75,000. He suggested
earmarking $75,000 and talking to the new Development Services Director about the best way to proceed.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 17
Councilmember Bloom suggested a summary of what Ms. Morris is working on and what is left. Mr.
Chave answered the time to do that will be at the next step of the rewrite, the process chapter. That
chapter is the most complicated, needs the most updating and has the most legal ramifications. He
anticipated seeing something from Ms. Morris by the end of the month.
Councilmember Bloom relayed the Tree Board is finding it very difficult to review the code. She hoped
some funds could be allocated to include Tree Board issues in the code rewrite.
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services
Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite reviewed 2013 accomplishments:
• Replacement of playground area at Mathay Ballinger Park
• Edmonds Marsh Feasibility Study
• SR99 International District Enhancements
• Edmonds Arts Summit
• Installation of 13 new flower posts with artwork
• Main street lighting and landscaping project
• Yost Pool heat exchanger replacement
• Installation of grant funded interpretive signs at Marsh
• Adopt a flower basket and corner park program
• Write on the Sound writer's conference
• Grant funded concert series Hazel Miller Plaza
• Health and Fitness Expo
• Park Impact Fees
• MDP/Park Levy exploration
• Richard F. Anway Park naming
• Public art project for Five Corners
• 5,227 volunteer hours of 2.5 FTE, average 100 hours/week
Ms. Hite recognized management staff, Recreation Manager Renee McRea, Park Maintenance Manager
Rich Lindsay and Cultural Services Manager Frances Chapin. She reviewed challenges:
• Staffing capacity
• Yost Pool
• Park Maintenance
• Park Projects
• Cemetery Fund
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY PETSO TO EXTEND THE
MEETING FOR 20 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Ms. Hite explained the budget was similar to last year with the exception of the decision packages and a
$13,000 increase in interfund rentals for fleet maintenance and a $10,000 increase in rental/lease for
rental of port -a -potties. The difference in the administration and recreation budget is the result of moving
hourly and front desk staff from administration to recreation. She reviewed department expenditures:
Expenditures
2013
Modified
Budget
2013 YE
Estimate
2014
Recomm.
Discussion
Administration
473,795
454,027
408,211
Recreation
907,879
914,975
1,090,134
2014 staff reorg from Admin to Rec
DP 25, 26, 27
Programs
578,168
509,056
590,945
Increased programming
Park Maintenance
1,461,984
1,456 633
1,631,615
DP 28 30 31 33 and 43
Flower Program
20,691
20,323
50,211
DP 29
Total Department
3,442,517
3,355,014
3,771,116
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 18
Ms. Hite reviewed revenue:
Revenue
2013
Modified
Budget
2013 YE
Estimate
2014
Recomm.
Discussion
Aquatics
126,100
132,583
134,250
Program Fees
895,500
836,580
877,825
Increased programming
Rentals
145,500
155,900
158,700
Leases
143,000
157,445
159,335
Parks Donations
4,300
9,900
9,100
Total
1 314 400
1,292,408
1,339,210
Ms. Hite reviewed decision packages/changes:
• DP #24: General Fund Subsidy to Cemetery Fund
o $40,186 (ongoing) - Supports service level at cemetery.
• DP #25: Support for Arts Commission
o $20,000 - Adds intern support for Arts Commission projects.
o Related to Strategic objective 1 e.1-7
• DP #26: Recreation Manager — Interim Asst Parks Director
o $6,418 -Assists Parks Director with large park projects ( PROS, City Park).
• DP #27: Training
o $5,000 - Supports staff with ongoing professional training to stay current and provide best
practices to citizens of Edmonds.
• DP #28: Parks Ballfield Irrigation
o $15,000 - Restores irrigation at area ballfields.
• DP #29: Parks Seasonal Flower program
o $30,337 - Offset by flower donation program. Total is $8,550.
• DP #30: Replace downtown trash cans
o $16,000 - Enhances downtown area.
• DP #31: Parks Seasonal Laborers
o $45,559 - Restores summer seasonal laborers to mow, pick up trash, clean restrooms.
• DP #32: PROS plan
o $62,500 — Completes the PROS and Community Cultural Plan.
• DP #33: City Park Spray water costs
o $25,000 —Support new Spray Park.
• DP #43: One Cemetery Seasonal
o $15,186 - Provides for mowing, edging, landscape maintenance during peak times.
Councilmember Bloom was impressed by the number of volunteer hours and asked who coordinates the
volunteers. Ms. Hite answered Ms. McRae coordinates it for recreation and Mr. Lindsay coordinates it for
the off -leash park and adopt -a -park projects. She advised 80 people are already signed up to assist with
the community -build on the City Park playground.
Councilmember Buckshnis relayed that during the walkabout of the Edmonds Marsh, WRIA 8 inquired
about additional funding. Ms. Hite advised REET funds can be put aside for that; funding will also be
provided by the Storm Utility. The CIP includes funds for the Marina Beach Master Plan due to the
Willow Creek daylighting as well as contracting with Earth Corp to continue their work at the Marsh.
Public Comment
Al Rutledge, Edmonds, commented the budget is primarily salaries and operation of the City. He
expressed interest in a long term vision, and suggested the City needed a Visioning Director, someone
who can bring in events in the next 3-5 years. He also commented on City owned buildings that need
work including the Senior Center.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 19
Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, relayed his impression that there were a lot of salary increases. He was
concerned the City wanted to spend the extra revenue rather than being more conservative. He questioned
the $3.8 million transfer of funds. Although he was impressed with Mr. Clifton's plans related to
marketing, he was concerned that neither the Economic Development Commission nor the Tourism
Subcommittee had discussed his plans. With the limited funds available for streets, he suggested serious
consideration be given to chip sealing, citing the success Shoreline has with that method. He suggested
inviting a representative from Shoreline to describe their program. He urged caution about raising
development fees; technology should allow the department to operate more efficiently with fewer people.
13. REPORT ON OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS.
Councilmember Peterson reported Councilmember Fraley-Monillas and he attended the Economic
Development Commission meeting; it focused on implementation of the Strategic Plan and getting the
stakeholders together. He reported Council President Petso and he attended the PFD Task Force meeting;
the task force is working with staff to develop a document that describes the current situation.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas reported an issue arose in the Snohomish County Health District audit
regarding the inventory and tracking of electronics. She anticipated a similar issue could arise in the City.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas reported the Disability Board met this morning. A longtime volunteer on
the Board, Dr. Deming, passed away recently. She expressed appreciation for his service and offered her
condolences to his family.
Councilmember Johnson reported Council President Petso and she attended the Historic Preservation
Commission meeting. The November agenda will include a proposal for a new entry on the Edmonds
Registry of Historic Places. A Historical Society dinner is scheduled on November 8, 2013.
Councilmember Buckshnis reported tomorrow's Snohomish County Tomorrow meeting will include a
summary of the Puget Sound Regional Council's actions and activities, appointment of a citizen
representative, discussion of the Affordable Housing Interlocal Agreement and an update on the
Economic Alliance of Snohomish County.
Councilmember Bloom reported Tree Board Member Anna Marie Heckman made a presentation to the
Tree Board on silva cells, blocks that are placed under sidewalks to improve the health of urban trees. The
Tree Board also discussed solar easements, the Heritage Tree Program, the tree ordinance and support the
Tree Board would like to have from the 2014 budget. Councilmember Bloom reported she also attended
the Disability Board meeting. She did not attend the Port Commission meeting due to illness.
14. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Earling reported 37 members of the Hekinan delegation will attend next week's Council meeting.
This is a great opportunity for the community to meet Hekinan residents including their Mayor who will
be part of the delegation. He encouraged Councilmembers to indicate which events they planned to
attend.
Mayor Earling provided a reminder of City Clerk Sandy Chase's retirement party tomorrow at 3:00 p.m.
in the Brackett Room of City Hall.
15. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmember Bloom thanked Mr. Clifton for the PFD information he provided Councilmembers.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 20
Councilmember Johnson was impressed with the number of volunteer hours reported by the Parks,
Recreation and Cultural Services Department. She recommended including them in next year's volunteer
appreciation picnic.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked how Councilmembers should forward their budget suggestions.
Council President Petso suggested Councilmembers email them to her.
16. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION
PER RCW 42.30.110(1)(I)
This agenda item was not considered.
17. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING IN
EXECUTIVE SESSION
This agenda item was not considered.
18. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:27 p.m.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 22, 2013
Page 21