Cm131126EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
November 26, 2013
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Earling in the Council
Chambers, 250 5"' Avenue North, Edmonds.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Dave Earling, Mayor
Lora Petso, Council President
Strom Peterson, Councilmember
Frank Yamamoto, Councilmember
Joan Bloom, Councilmember
Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
ROLL CALL
STAFF PRESENT
Al Compaan, 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.
Rob English, City Engineer
Sarah Mager, Accounting Supervisor
Debra Sharp, Accountant
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Scott Passey, City Clerk
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst.
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present.
2. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING AND POTENTIAL LITIGATION
PER RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)
At 6:02 p.m., Mayor Earling announced that the City Council would meet in executive session regarding
pending 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. No action was anticipated to occur as a result of meeting in executive session. Elected officials
present at the executive session were: Mayor Earling, and Councilmembers Yamamoto, Johnson, Fraley-
Monillas, Buckshnis, Peterson, Petso and Bloom. Others present were City Attorney Jeff Taraday and City
Clerk Scott Passey. The executive session concluded at 7:03 p.m.
Mayor Earling reconvened the regular City Council meeting at 7:05 p.m. and led the flag salute.
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
4. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Council President Petso requested Item E be removed from the Consent Agenda.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 1
COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO, TO
APPROVE THE BALANCE OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
The agenda items approved are as follows:
A. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 19, 2013
B. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #205493 THROUGH #205646 DATED NOVEMBER 21,
2013 FOR $1,030,376.55. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSIT AND CHECKS
#60571 THROUGH #60583 AND REPLACEMENT CHECK #60593 FOR $443,640.07,
BENEFIT CHECKS #60584 THROUGH #60592 AND WIRE PAYMENTS OF $123,102.61
FOR THE PERIOD NOVEMBER 1, 2013 THROUGH NOVEMBER 15, 2013
C. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIMS FOR DAMAGES FROM SANDRA K. LUCE
(AMOUNT UNDETERMINED) AND PEGGY ROSS (AMOUNT UNDETERMINED)
D. AUTHORIZE MAYOR TO SIGN CONTRACT TO AWARD BID FOR CITY PARK PLAY
EQUIPMENT
F. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN AND APPROVE THE SETTLEMENT AND
RELEASE AGREEMENT FOR THE ANDERSEN PROPERTY AS PART OF THE FIVE
CORNERS ROUNDABOUT PROJECT
G. APPROVAL OF PAYMENTS FOR KELLY DAY BUY BACK (CHECKS #60594 THROUGH
#60627) FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMISSIONED EMPLOYEES IN THE AMOUNT
OF $37,013.18 AND HOLIDAY BUY BACK (CHECKS #60628 THROUGH #60680) FOR
LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMISSIONED EMPLOYEES AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
SUPPORT SERVICE EMPLOYEES IN THE AMOUNT OF $126,170.21 PER UNION
CONTRACTS
Item E: AUTHORIZE MAYOR TO SIGN FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT WITH CAROL
MORRIS TO PROVIDE LEGAL SERVICES RELATED TO THE POINT EDWARDS
BUILDING 10 CLOSED -RECORD APPEAL
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
APPROVE ITEM E WITH THE CHANGES THAT MR. TARADAY HAS MADE, CHANGING THE
AMOUNT TO AN ADDITIONAL $5,000 FOR THE CAROL MORRIS CONTRACT UP TO A TOTAL
OF $10,000 AND WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT BY APPROVING ITEM E, COUNCIL IS
ALSO AUTHORIZING THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT TO PAY THE ADDITIONAL INVOICES
FROM THE COUNCIL CONTINGENCY BUDGET ITEM. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Natalie Shippen, Edmonds, said the City's sign code is largely meaningless because it regulates little and
does not enforce what it regulates. Premise is defined as the actual physical area of the lot by which a sign is
posted except within the boundaries of the BC and BD in the Downtown Activity Center where premises
shall include any portion of the public sidewalk that fronts upon the lot, essentially giving the public
sidewalk to the adjacent business. There is no enforcement except upon public complaint and anyone who
requests investigation of a possible violation must provide their name. She concluded the sign code needed
sweeping revisions. She disagreed with Mr. Chave's plan to work on solutions with the business community,
pointing out businesses are the problem not the solution. She suggested the Council appoint a group of
citizens with no economic interest in Edmonds work with Mr. Chave to revise the sign code. She suggested
the group be provided sign codes from cities that have successfully attracted tourists such as Poulsbo and
Port Townsend.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
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Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, referred to the proposed budget amendment to increase funding for the SR104
study from $50,000 to $150,000, and recommended the Council identify the reason for the study and/or the
problem to be solved. Next, he questioned the amendment proposed by Council President Petso to reduce
REET funding for paving. He also said the proposed budget included too many new hires and suggested
placing the funds for new hires into the Council Contingency fund for consideration in 2014.
Bruce Witenberg, Edmonds, was appalled that some Councilmembers who profess to be public safety
advocates do not support Police Chief Compaan's decision packages. He recalled comments he made at the
last Council meeting regarding some Councilmembers' distrust of directors and their attempts to
micromanage departments, finding this another example. Chief Compaan has the experience and expertise to
make these recommendations; when cut were necessary, Chief Compaan offered not to fund the assistant
police chief position for one year. He urged the Council to demonstrate their support for public safety by
approving the decision package for a second assistant police chief position as well as the other Police
Department decision package to add a police officer.
6. VETERANS' PLAZA UPDATE
Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite explained during the process of naming the mini park, there was a
great deal of interest by the community in establishing a veterans' park. Following that process, she
committed to working with a group to develop ideas for a veterans' park. Councilmember Peterson
participated in the group as well as Ron Clyborne and Planning Board Member Neil Tibbott. The group
discussed various locations for a veterans' park/plaza and identified the plaza outside the Public Safety
building. If the Council agrees with the proposed location, the group will develop a design for a veterans'
plaza and funding options.
Ron Clyborne, member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, and Vietnam Veterans of
America, advised there are over 500 members in these organizations and they, various Rotary Clubs, the
Boots to Books Program at Edmonds Community College and various other service organizations support
identifying a location in Edmonds to honor veterans. Edmonds is one of the few communities in the United
States of this size and stature that does not have a location that honors veterans other than the monuments in
front of the museum which is proposed to be moved. The proposed location for the Veterans Plaza, the plaza
in front of the Public Safety building, is already a plaza and has two flagpoles, one that flies the American
flag and the MIA/POW flag. The service organizations originally discussed a memorial park but now look
forward to naming this location Veterans' Plaza to honor fallen heroes who did not return as well as honor
veterans who have returned. He was a Marine in Vietnam and was one of the lucky ones able to return.
Mr. Clyborne explained the VFW and American Legion have set aside money to research and review what
could be done in conjunction with the Parks and Planning Departments and the support of the City Council.
It is the sacred obligation to honor the memory of veterans who sacrificed so much in the defense of liberty,
freedom and the American way. In light of the willingness of those men and women who accepted the
responsibility to defend America and who sacrificed so much in the discharge of their duties, creation of
Veterans' Plaza would serve as a demonstration of the community's lasting gratitude and the high esteem in
which they are held.
Councilmember Peterson thanked Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite and Parks Maintenance Manager
Rich Lindsay for developing creative solutions. He also recognized Mr. Clyborne and Mr. Tibbott and other
members of the community who participated in identifying a location. He found this a perfect opportunity
and placement for a Veterans' Plaza with the firefighters' memorial nearby and the Public Safety building,
all great representations of first responders. The plaza is easily accessible and provides a place for veterans to
enjoy and reflect on their and others' service. He asked the Council for their support in proceeding with
developing design ideas. He summarized this is a great opportunity for Edmonds and he was honored to be
part of it.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
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Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented this was a great idea that showed respect. Both her parents
served in WWII; this location is a more appropriate way to honor veterans than the park in the ferry holding
area. She commended whoever identified the Public Safety building plaza. Ms. Hite credited Mr. Lindsay
with developing the idea.
7. COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE 2014
BUDGET
Mr. Neumaier explained the Council reviewed the Mayor's recommended budget in October. Last week the
Council reviewed and discussed proposed budget amendments. Testimony has been taken during several
Council meetings and will be taken again tonight. The schedule targets December 3 for budget adoption.
Tonight's schedule includes action on proposed amendments. He explained Councilmembers received a list
of proposed amendments; the list groups related budget amendments which can be passed as a group or
individually.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER YAMAMOTO,
TO PUT THE MAYOR'S BUDGET ON THE TABLE FOR DISCUSSION.
Councilmember Buckshnis requested further information regarding the property tax ordinance.
Mr. Neumaier clarified the Council will amend the budget tonight but the budget will not be acted on tonight.
He will provide further information regarding the property tax ordinance and the Council needs to vote on
the property tax ordinance tonight.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Mr. Neumaier explained Council motions on amendments, either individually or as a group, will be followed
by discussion of specific issues and a vote. Some of the budget amendments early on the list affect later
amendments. Accounting Supervisor Sarah Mager demonstrated how the spreadsheet will be updated as
amendments are approved. Mr. Neumaier explained the vote on the property tax ordinance will occur after
the amendment discussion and a decision whether to levy a 1% increase in general property tax. He will
make a presentation on the property tax ordinance at that time. The state requires the property tax ordinance
to be adopted by November 30, 2013.
Council President Petso asked the effect on the General Fund ending balance if the Council approves all the
proposed amendments. Mr. Neumaier answered it would increase fund balance at the end of 2014 by
$62,967. The projection in out years is a decrease of $137,000.
Councilmember Buckshnis pointed out not approving Package #3 will have a $95,000 impact on the budget.
Mr. Neumaier explained if the Council does not approve Package #3, the budget stands as proposed by
Mayor Earling. If the Council approves Package #3, it reduces Mayor Earling's proposed budget by $10,067.
Public Testimony
There were no members of the public present who wished to provide comment.
Mr. Neumaier briefly reviewed each amendment package followed by Council discussion and action:
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
1
Development Services Building Professional
$32,000
001
Chave
Services information omitted from
recommended budget
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 4
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
APPROVE PACKAGE #1, ADDING $32,000 INTO THE BUDGET FOR PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES.
At Councilmember Bloom's request, Acting Development Services Director Rob Chave explained building
professional services covers external reviews, particularly complex projects where structural reviews are sent
to a consultant. There are several projects in the coming year that meet that criterion such as the Swedish -
Edmonds emergency room expansion. This proposed amendment anticipates those required expenditures.
Councilmember Bloom relayed her understanding this was not an ongoing expense. Mr. Chave agreed it
would vary year-to-year depending on activity.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
2
Eliminate Decision Package #5 — Non-
Departmental Longevity Program
(31,900)
001
Buckshnis
Councilmember Buckshnis preferred that Package #2 be discussed by Council committee; she had some
ideas about handling longevity in other ways.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE PACKAGE #2, ELIMINATING DECISION PACKAGE #5, NON -
DEPARTMENTAL LONGEVITY PROGRAM.
Councilmember Peterson did not support the motion, recalling this was proposed by a consultant in February.
The Council approved some of the consultant's recommendations but delayed a decision on this
recommendation. When it was discussed again a few months ago, it was delayed until the budget forecast
determined whether there funds were available. The Mayor's budget indicates there are funds for this item.
He was frustrated by the Council kicking the can further down the road. He was also concerned that the
Council was willing to pay $30,000 - $40,000 for contract labor but was not willing to support existing City
staff who may do some of the work the Council wanted to outsource. The nonrepresented employees who
have worked for the City a long time deserve this compensation; it is a nod of appreciation to what staff has
done, particularly during the past 10 years during staff shortages and budget cuts. He concluded it was
important to give nonrepresented employee the longevity program that many other employees receive.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas pointed out other employees received longevity pay as part of a negotiated
package; those employees gave concessions in order to receive the longevity. She agreed this decision has
been delayed twice and reappeared in the Mayor's budget. She recalled the Council's previous action was to
not give longevity pay; it was not to delay a decision until the budget.
Councilmember Buckshnis was hopeful this issue could be resolved in the coming year. In her conversations
with Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite, there are a variety of ways monetary value can be provided to
long term employees. A lump sum is among the options being reviewed by the auditor and Mr. Taraday.
Councilmember Yamamoto commented $31, 900 for approximately 40 employees was very minimal. He
supported rewarding employees for their work; without that, there was no incentive for them to stay. He did
not support the motion.
Councilmember Johnson commented there were very different budgetary circumstances when the Council
last discussed this. She was interested in longevity pay for employees with 20+ years of service. The current
proposal is to reward employees at incremental 5-year steps. The cost to provide 1 % to nonrepresented
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 5
employees who have been employed 20+ years would be $6,500 and $13,000 to provide 2%. She favored
true longevity pay for employees with 20+ years of service.
MOTION CARRIED (5-2), COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON AND YAMAMOTO VOTING NO.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
3
Decision Package # 16: An additional
policeman rather than another Assistant Chief
(10,067)
001
Buckshnis
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE PACKAGE #3, TO ADD A POLICEMAN RATHER THAN AN
ANOTHER ASSISTANT CHIEF.
Councilmember Buckshnis said this amendment was the result of her meeting with four citizens; she may
now vote against the motion. She found the information that Police Chief Compaan provided compelling; the
budget includes another police officer and another supervisor is needed for the 51 commissioned officers in
the Police Department.
Councilmember Peterson did not support the motion, commenting if any department needs excellent
management, it is the Police Department. The chief and assistant chief have done an admirable job over the
last year since the former assistant chief retired. If the Police Department were management heavy, he would
consider replacing an assistant chief with another police officer but that is not the case. It is imperative to
give the chief and assistant chief some help so that the City's police force can continue to keep citizens safe
and make the City proud.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented there has been an approximately 20% reduction in the police
force in the last ten years due to cuts to direct service employees. She was approached by three patrol officers
during the last six weeks and when asked whether they would rather have another assistant police chief or a
patrol officer, all three said another patrol officer. She will support this amendment package for those two
reasons.
Councilmember Yamamoto relayed none of corporations he is familiar with have only two management
executives running a department 24/7. He was certain if management were queried, they would say there
needed to be more management. He did not support the motion, pointing out the plan is to promote an
assistant police chief from within and the budget includes another police officer.
Councilmember Johnson commented the questions are whether to have an additional assistant police chief
and what the Police Department needs. Chief Compaan has explained the difficulty the department
experienced during the past year with only one assistant chief, explaining she relied on his judgment over her
own because he is the expert in that field. Hiring additional police officers is a separate question. She did not
support the motion because she believed the Police Department needed another assistant chief.
Council President Petso was sympathetic to citizens' wishes to have additional officers. She found it
interesting that the officers themselves would like additional officers but was inclined to vote no on this
amendment because she believed Councilmembers have reason to bolster the Police Department's
management team.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (1-6), COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING
YES; COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO AND COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM, JOHNSON,
PETERSON, YAMAMOTO, AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO.
Pkg # Proposed Amendment Description Revenue $ Expense $ Fund Requester
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 6
4 Eliminate Decision Package #39 - "Eliminate (210,000) 001 Petso
transfer for LED fixtures to streetlights and
improve Library HVAC systems
4 Eliminate Decision Package #39 - "Eliminate (210,000) 016 Petso
transfer for LED fixtures to streetlights and
improve Library HVAC systems
4 Eliminate Decision Package #39 - Grants (90,000) 016 Petso
Portion
4 Eliminate Decision Package #39 - "Eliminate (300,000) Petso
transfer from General Fund for LED fixtures to
streetlights and improve Library HVAC
Mr. Neumaier explained package #4 has been modified since it was first proposed; instead of removing this
expenditure of which $90,000 was proposed to be a State grant, the proposal is to fund the $210,000 via a
low interest loan instead of on a cash basis from the General Fund.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
APPROVE THE THREE AMENDMENTS THAT COMPRISE ITEM #4.
Council President Petso explained the ESCO III energy efficiency project approved in March 2013 has not
yet been completed; that project was originally proposed to be funded via a low interest loan. The proposed
budget pays the contribution to that project from General Fund cash. This project is just being formulated
now and details are not available. The projects typically include the low interest loan and grant as part of the
funding package. She preferred to rely on the grant rather than transfer money from the General Fund. This
would allow more of the Council -proposed amendments to be funded and in the future the Council would
have the option to fund the project from either General Fund cash or a low interest loan.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented $210,000 of the $300,000 cost would be funded via a low interest
loan plus the $90,000 grant. She asked how this impacted decision packages (DP) 38 and 39. Mr. Neumaier
answered DP 38 and 39 are unrelated. He explained this project is proposed to be funded via ESCO IV; it is
the same approach but in a different area. Councilmember Buckshnis inquired about the loan's interest rate.
Mr. Neumaier relayed Public Works Director Phil Williams' estimate of 3%.
For Councilmember Yamamoto, Council President Petso explained the ESCO III project was initially to be
funded via a low interest loan; a decision was made to fund the project from General Fund cash. When the
complete project comes to the Council, the Council can make a decision whether to fund it via a loan or cash.
Councilmember Peterson asked about the return on investment of the energy savings. Mr. Neumaier relayed
Mr. Williams' anticipation that the projects will probably pay for themselves; the funding source needs to be
considered in that analysis. It is a policy decision for the Council. Although he understood the efficiencies in
taking advantage of low interest loans, Councilmember Peterson was concerned with Council President
Petso's support for using a loan for this project so that the Council could spend the $210,000 somewhere
else. He may be more comfortable if the $210,000 were used for other energy retrofit opportunities. Mayor
Earling advised his charge to staff was to identify one-time efficiencies that could be done on a cash basis.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked if that was the same reason DP 38 was to be funded with cash rather than
an ESCO III loan. Mayor Earling answered yes. Mr. Neumaier explained when that project was originally
presented to the Council, the interest rate was estimated to be 2%; it has increased to 3%. Councilmember
Buckshnis asked whether the $90,000 grant was guaranteed. Mr. Neumaier answered that was an
assumption; Public Works believes they can obtain the grant. If they did not, they would return to the
Council.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 7
Council President Petso commented the reason for the difference between the ESCO III project and the
ESCO IV project is the ESCO III project is defined and underway and cash funding makes more sense. The
ESCO IV project is still in a conceptual stage and based on past experience, she was uncertain it would be
funded in 2014.
Councilmember Bloom asked whether the $210,000 could be allocated to another expenditure such as
streets. Mr. Neumaier answered it is the Council's decision; the alternatives are to not spend the money or
spend the money elsewhere.
Councilmember Bloom expressed support for the motion, relaying her preference to use the 3% loan and use
the cash for another purpose.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (3-4), COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO AND
COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING YES; COUNCILMEMBERS
JOHNSON, PETERSON, YAMAMOTO AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description Revenue $
Expense $
Fund Requester
5
Reduce Decision Package #48 and amount
(300,000)
001 Petso
included as regular transfer from General Fund
to Risk Management by $300,000
5
Eliminate $129,000 transfer to Fire Fighters
(129,000)
001 Petso
Fund
5
Adjust Decision Package #36 to increase
450,000
001 Petso
General Fund for paving and reduce REET for
paving
5 Reduce Decision Package #48 and amount (300,000) 012 Petso
included as regular transfer from General Fund
to Risk Management by $300,000.
5 Adjust Decision Package #36 to increase (450,000) 126 Petso
General Fund for paving and reduce REET for
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
APPROVE THE AMENDMENTS LABELED AS PACKAGE #5.
Council President Petso recalled an audience member asked for clarification regarding this amendment. She
explained by Council policy, the excess in Fund 126 (REET) is dedicated to park improvements and
acquisition. The Mayor's budget proposes instead to spend that money on paving. This package of
amendments retains the use of the 126 Fund for park acquisition and improvements and delays a decision to
use park funds for roads for at least another year. At that point the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS)
plan will be updated and the Council will be in a better position to determine how much funding can be
allocated to paving projects. To avoid impacting the Mayor's proposed paving plan under this amendment,
funding for paving comes from the General Fund.
Councilmember Buckshnis suggested separating these amendments. She did not support reducing the transfer
to the Risk Management Fund because of large, upcoming lawsuits. She referred to the Risk Management
policy.
Council President Petso commented the $900,000 proposed to be transferred into the Risk Management Fund
is in excess of the target balance established by Council policy. The policy was 2%; the proposed transfer is
at least 3%. That Council policy will be further violated unless this package of amendments is approved.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 8
Councilmember Bloom expressed support for not utilizing funds from the REET 126 Fund particularly
because the PROS Plan has not been completed. She questioned why this was proposed as part of the budget
process. She also agreed with Council President Petso regarding the Risk Management Fund.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked whether the items within package #5 could be separated. Mayor
Earling commented that was the Council's decision; the motion is to approve them as a package. He relayed
the Finance Department's indication that the $129,000 could be used. He expressed his interest in identifying
a stable funding source for paving via accessing some REET funds.
Councilmember Buckshnis pointed out only $300,000 was being added to the Risk Management Fund, not
$900,000. Mr. Neumaier agreed, relaying the intent was to have the required amount in the fund during and
at the end of the year. Councilmember Buckshnis recalled the fund was depleted last year and an amendment
was required to replenish it.
Councilmember Yamamoto did not support the motion, especially eliminating the $129,000 transfer to the
Fire Fighter's Fund. Mayor Earling relayed Ms. Neumaier and Ms. Hite determined the $129,000 could be
used without damaging the fund. He did not support the other four items in the package of amendments.
Council President Petso referred to an interfund transfer on page 61 of the budget book of over $900,000 into
the Risk Management Fund.
Councilmember Johnson supported increasing paving in the City but was concerned with how REET 1,
REET 2 and TBD funds were allocated. She acknowledged that is a larger issue that the Council may want to
address in the coming year. She suggested separating the items in this package of amendments.
COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON, TO
AMEND THE MOTION TO REMOVE THE ELIMINATION OF THE $129,000 TRANSFER FROM
THE FIRE FIGHTERS FUND.
Council President Petso asked for clarification what removing the $129,000 meant. Councilmember Peterson
responded that amount would not be part of Council President Petso's motion. He felt it best to separate the
funding sources, pointing out the Fire Fighter's Fund was very different than the other two sources.
Councilmember Bloom preferred to review each item separately rather than remove and vote on them one
item at a time.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas suggested the maker of the motion withdraw the main motion. Council
President Petso responded if the Council did not approve the main motion, it would be procedurally
appropriate following that vote to make motions on individual items.
AMENDMENT CARRIED (5-2), COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO AND COUNCILMEMBER
BLOOM VOTING NO.
UPON ROLL CALL, THE MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED FAILED (3-4), COUNCIL PRESIDENT
PETSO AND COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING YES;
COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, PETERSON, YAMAMOTO AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO, TO
ELIMINATE THE $129,000 TRANSFER TO THE FIRE FIGHTERS FUND AND HAVE THAT BE
ADJUSTED TO DECISION PACKAGE 36 TO INCREASE THE GENERAL FUND FOR PAVING
AND REDUCE THE REET FOR PAVING.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 9
Mr. Neumaier demonstrated the impact of Councilmember Buckshnis' motion on the spreadsheet, explaining
the motion has a neutral impact on the General Fund and increases the REET fund balance.
Council President Petso clarified the amendment would not transfer $129,000 to the Fire Fighter Pension
Fund and instead allocate those funds to paving projects, thus preserving $129,000 in the REET 126 fund.
Mr. Neumaier agreed.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Pkg # Proposed Amendment Description Revenue $ Expense $ Fund Requester
6 Increase Professional Services in Development 75,000 001 Bloom
Svcs for code re -write. (One -Time)
6 Code Re -write of Tree Code (One -Time) 25,000 001 Bloom
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
INCREASE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES IN DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT FOR
THE CODE REWRITE, A ONE-TIME EXPENDITURE OF $75,000 AND A REWRITE OF THE
TREE CODE, A ONE-TIME EXPENDITURE OF $25,000.
Councilmember Bloom explained $75,000 was previously earmarked for 2014 but was not included in the
2014 budget pending hiring of a Development Services Director. She preferred not to delay the code rewrite
and to include the funds in the 2014 budget. The $25,000 would allow the Tree Board to seek matching grant
funds. A rewrite of the tree code is an enormous project and she was uncertain it could be completed for
$25,000 although it would allow a good start. The Tree Board also believes these funds will allow them to
seek matching grants for mapping the tree canopy and impervious surfaces.
Councilmember Peterson asked what would be addressed with this year's $75,000. Mr. Chave answered
those funds were earmarked for Carol Morris to complete the basics for a good portion of the code as well as
funds to allow Code Publishing to update the website; it would not address the tree code. Some of the funds
will be carried forward into 2014. The $75,000 that Councilmember Bloom's amendment contemplates
would focus on sections that Ms. Morris's review has not addressed.
Councilmember Peterson suggested the motion be amended to include the inventory of the tree canopy and
impervious surfaces. Mr. Chave agreed.
Councilmember Johnson suggested the Code Rewrite in package #6 be considered as part of package #14,
Small Matching Grant Reserves for Boards and Commissions. She explained her intent was to have one line
item for funding for boards and commissions.
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED TO AMEND THE MOTION CONSIDER ALL THE
BOARDS AND COMMISSION PACKAGES AS ONE DECISION PACKAGE FOR A TOTAL
AMOUNT OF $102,000 WHICH INCLUDES THE ARTS COMMISSION, THE HISTORIC
PRESERVATION COMMISSION, THE MATCHING GRANTS FOR BOARDS AND
COMMISSIONS AND THE TREE BOARD, PACKAGES 6,9 AND 14. MOTION DIED FOR LACK
OF A SECOND.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO, TO
AMEND THE MOTION TO HAVE THE REWRITE OF THE TREE CODE INCLUDE SURVEY OF
THE TREE CANOPY AND IMPERVIOUS SURFACES. AMENDMENT CARRIED (6-1),
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON VOTING NO.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED 7-0.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 10
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
7
Half-time coordinator of all volunteers
(Ongoing)
40,000
001
Bloom
Councilmember Bloom relayed she is considering withdrawing this amendment following a discussion with
Ms. Hite. The original intent of this amendment was related to the fact that last year when the Council
approved student representatives on boards and commissions, there was no staff member available to recruit
students. As a result of her conversation with Ms. Hite, she realized what she wanted was to involve more
youth. She and Ms. Hite also discussed adding contract funds to assist with the volunteer appreciation picnic
that was organized by Councilmember Johnson this year.
Ms. Hite clarified Councilmember Bloom was interested in increasing youth involvement in the City, on
boards and commissions, events, planning processes, etc. Engaging youth in City government will take a
great deal of outreach. In response to Councilmember Bloom's suggestion for someone to assist with the
volunteer appreciation picnic, she suggested including funds in the volunteer picnic package for contract staff
to help organize the picnic.
Councilmember Bloom asked Ms. Hite to comment on potentially funding a youth coordinator position next
year. Ms. Hite explained there are several cities in the region that have incorporated youth councils into their
government model. That would require establishing a position that would develop relationships with local
schools, get to know the students and recruit positions on a youth council. If the Council is interested in
pursuing that, she offered to review other cities' models and develop a proposal for the following year's
budget.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked about gift of public funds when hiring a caterer for the volunteer picnic.
Mr. Neumaier answered the amount per person could not be increased but funds for organizing it would not
be a conflict.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas advised this year's volunteer picnic was organized by Councilmember
Johnson, Senior Executive Council Assistant Jana Spellman and herself with Council President Petso
assisting with serving. She summarized Councilmember Johnson and she have the volunteer picnic under
control.
COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
WITHDRAW PACKAGE #7. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Pkg # Proposed Amendment Description Revenue $ Expense $
Fund Requester
8 30,000 - 40,000 to hire a temporary part time 40,000
001 Fraley -
Department contract staff to coordinate the
Monillas
strategic plan times
8 30,000-40,000 to hire a temporary part time 40,000
001 Fraley -
Department contract staff to coordinate the
Monillas
economic redevelopment to Highway 99 for 1
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT
PETSO, TO APPROVE PACKAGE #8 WITH IT ONLY BEING ONE POSITION INSTEAD OF
TWO.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas relayed this would be beneficial as little progress has been made on the
strategic plan in the past two years. The person would coordinate the elements of the strategic plan and bring
them together in a document for the Council and staff. The person could also coordinate planning for
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 11
Highway 99 as well as talk with the neighborhoods and businesses, coordinate redevelopment with the
Economic Development Department and provide frequent reports to the Council. She envisioned this as one
contract person via an RFQ process but with some level of Council access to this individual. This would be a
one-time expenditure for 2014, approximately 10 months by the time the person was selected.
Councilmember Buckshnis clarified it took two years to develop the strategic plan; the plan was adopted in
April 2013. She felt staff, led by Community Services/Economic Development Director Stephen Clifton, was
doing a great job. She suggested holding retreats next year with the Council, EDC and stakeholders to work
on the strategic plan. She felt this proposal was premature, advising the Highway 99 Task Force has done a
great deal of work such as obtaining grants for the Internal District lighting.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas pointed out the Highway 99 Task Force has been meeting for ten years;
there is not sufficient staff to visit businesses. The City Council has become centric on issues in the
downtown core; other areas of Edmonds need more attention. She invited Mr. Clifton to describe how he
envisioned this position. Mayor Earling suggested he also describe efforts related to the strategic plan. Mr.
Clifton advised Mayor Earling and the directors met to discuss this position and determined a contracted
person could assist with both the strategic plan as well as the economic development. Many of the plan
actions in the strategic plan are related to Highway 99. A contract person familiar with community
organizations, comprehensive planning, land use planning, etc. could perform both functions.
With regard to the comment that little has been accomplished on the Strategic Plan for two years, Mr. Clifton
explained the strategic plan took about 1'/2 years to complete and adopted on April 2, 2013. Implementation
of the plan has only been underway for the past seven months. Some actions the Council took this year relate
to plan actions such as adopting new regulations for public markets and some of the proposals in the 2014
budget are related to plan actions such as communications, economic development, promoting the arts, and a
contract person to develop Facebook, YouTube and Google pages. He envisioned this person would report to
his department because the job duties relate to economic development and the strategic plan. He envisioned
issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) or Request for Proposals (RFP).
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented there are at least 80 elements in the strategic plan and she was
concerned no one had the time to chase them down. Mr. Clifton has taken on the responsibility of the
strategic plan but prior to the adoption of the strategic plan, he already had a full-time job. She envisioned
hiring someone who could coordinate the 80 elements and provide a document to Council and staff to move
the strategic plan forward.
Councilmember Yamamoto commented he has been involved in the strategic plan from its inception; before
he was a Councilmember, he was the Chair of the EDC, Councilmember Buckshnis was the Council
representative and Councilmember Johnson was the Planning Board representative. He suggested the EDC
and Highway 99 Task Force provide the Council updates, envisioning that could be accomplished without
spending $40,000 to hire a contract person.
Councilmember Peterson commented it is too early in the strategic plan process to bring in an outside
professional hired by the City. Many of the 80 elements in the strategic plan are outside the City's purview.
He preferred to hold a roundtable with the Council, EDC, Chamber of Commerce, Swedish -Edmonds
Hospital, the Port, and other organizations identified as key stakeholders in the strategic plan. He preferred it
be a community led project rather than a City -led project, noting there may be funding opportunities from
other stakeholders.
Councilmember Peterson took issue with spending $40,000 - $60,000 to hire outside contract employees
when City staff has been overworked and often underpaid over the past ten years and the Council chose not
to provide longevity pay. Much of the internal work related to the strategic plan and Highway 99 could be
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 12
done in-house. He may be amenable to an RFP process if that is what the organization committee
recommends next year.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas clarified her amendment had nothing to do with the EDC, it was related to
the strategic plan. The strategic plan requires community input; she questioned who would collect
information from the community. She expressed willingness to withdraw her motion.
Council President Petso thanked Councilmember Fraley-Monillas and Mr. Clifton for clarifying this
amendment and for considering whether this person could also handle the social media improvements
suggested by Mr. Clifton. She described things that have happened over the past year that led to her support
for this contract person such as the Planning Board's interest in starting a Highway 99 Task Force, unaware
there already was one and the PROS Plan committee's believe they had to include a proposal to move the
senior center because it was in the adopted strategic plan. She relayed 63% of the respondents to the strategic
plan survey felt moving the senior center was a low or very low priority. When the strategic plan was
adopted, it was acknowledged the low priorities would not attract a great deal of City resources and were left
in the plan in case another organization wanted to pursue it. She supported hiring a contract person to
coordinate implementation of the strategic plan.
Councilmember Buckshnis clarified the strategic plan is a dynamic process and other stakeholders are
involved. She recalled if one citizen recommended moving the senior center, it was included in the strategic
plan; that was one of her criticisms of the strategic plan process. The stakeholders in the strategic plan are
working on their elements and a meeting has not yet been held to discuss their efforts. She preferred to allow
the stakeholders and the EDC to continue their efforts and determine later whether a coordination person to is
necessary.
Mayor Earling asked the estimated cost of hiring one person for this position. Councilmember Fraley-
Monillas answered $70,000; he/she would report to Mr. Clifton with feedback to the City Council.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (3-4), COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO AND
COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM AND FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING YES; COUNCILMEMBERS
JOHNSON, PETERSON, YAMAMOTO AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO.
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM TO
APPROVE HIRING A TEMPORARY PART TIME DEPARTMENT CONTRACT STAFF TO
COORDINATE THE STRATEGIC PLAN TIME. UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (4-3),
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO AND COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM, JOHNSON AND FRALEY-
MONILLAS VOTING YES; COUNCILMEMBERS PETERSON, YAMAMOTO, AND BUCKSHNIS
VOTING NO.
Mayor Earling asked for clarification if the estimated cost was the $30,000 - $40,000 range identified in the
proposal and reporting to Mr. Clifton with feedback to the Council. Councilmember Johnson answered yes.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
9
Transfer from GF to Historical Preservation
2,000
001
Johnson
Fund for reprint of historic preservation
brochures
9
Grant Funding for Historical Preservation 5,000
014
Johnson
Printing
9
Transfer of Funds from General Fund for 2,000
014
Johnson
Historic Preservation Brochures
9
Historic Preservation Commission Calendar
5,000
014
Johnson
9
Historic Preservation Commission Brochure
2,000
014
Johnson
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 13
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO, TO
ADOPT THE ENTIRE PACKAGE #9.
For Councilmember Yamamoto, Mr. Neumaier explained there is $2,000 allocated from the General Fund
for the brochures and the $5,000 depends on grant revenue; if the grant is not received, the expenditure will
not occur. Councilmember Johnson relayed her understanding that if the grant was received, $5,000 from the
General Fund would not be needed. Mr. Chave advised the funding is currently structured as Mr. Neumaier
described. Mr. Neumaier suggested amending the package as follows:
Pkg #
Amended Proposed Amendment Description Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
9
Transfer from GF to Historical Preservation
7,000
001
Johnson
Fund for reprint of historic preservation
brochures
9
Transfer of Funds from General Fund for 7,000
014
Johnson
Historic Preservation Brochures
9
Historic Preservation Commission Calendar
5,000
014
Johnson
9
Historic Preservation Commission Brochure
2,000
014
Johnson
Council President Petso expressed support for the proposal. She pointed out reprinting of the historic
preservation brochure is done every few years when the HPC runs out of brochures; they were last reprinted
in 2007.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
10
Annual Citizen Appreciation Picnic
1,000
001
Johnson
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
APPROVE PACKAGE #10. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
I Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
11
Council part-time legislative analyst position
140,000
001
Johnson
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
APPROVE #11, COUNCIL PART-TIME LEGISLATIVE ANALYSIS POSITION, IN THE AMOUNT
OF $40,000.
Councilmember Johnson explained this would be a new position to provide support to the Council. Many
cities have legislative analysts; she suggested filling the position on a trial basis such the second and third
quarters for half the amount. That would allow time for Council to consider how the position would assist
them.
Councilmember Buckshnis did not support the motion, questioning the need for another position when the
Senior Executive Council Assistant to always been able to obtain whatever information she needed. Her
research found most other small local cities do not have a part-time analyst other than a council assistant.
Councilmember Bloom expressed interest in funding this position and suggested the Council discuss the
details of the position at a Council retreat. If the position is not funded, she requested it be discussed at next
year's retreat.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 14
Councilmember Peterson did not support the motion, preferring to discuss it at a Council retreat before
funding it. The Council has historically had a half-time person to support the Council; he found this a radical
increase.
Councilmember Yamamoto agreed with Councilmember Peterson, relaying his preference to outline the
position before funding it.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (3-4), COUNCILMEMBERS BLOOM, JOHNSON,
FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING YES; COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO AND COUNCILMEMBERS
PETERSON, YAMAMOTO AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description Revenue $ Expense $
Fund Requester
12
Transfer of $100,000 from General Fund to 100,000
001 Johnson
112 for SR104 Study.
12
Transfer of Funds from General Fund for SR 100,000
112 Johnson
104 Study
12
Increase Fund for SR104 Study from $50,000 100,000
112 Johnson
to $150,000.
Councilmember Johnson requested a legislative analyst be discussed at the Council retreat.
COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE PACKAGE #12.
Councilmember Johnson explained last year a $150,000 transportation study of the SR104 corridor from the
ferry to 761h was included in the CIP. The Council allocated $50,000 toward that study in last year's budget;
those funds will be carried over into 2014. The additional $100,000 would provide the necessary funding for
the study. The purpose of the study is to identify what the roadway configuration would be, look at the
roadway from edge to edge, sidewalk improvements, driveway access, internal circulation and the
relationship to the built environment. It would not include any transportation modeling, traffic analysis or
traffic impact analysis. She and City staff met yesterday to discuss the project limits, scope, and funding. She
summarized it was important to do this study in conjunction with the Westgate form -based code.
Council President Petso questioned how the roadway would be designed if the study did not include traffic,
capacity or access analysis. Councilmember Johnson responded because the section of SR104 from Highway
99 to the ferry is considered a highway of statewide significance, there are no level of service requirements.
A complete transportation study done in 2009 determined no capacity improvements were needed at that
time. Two subsequent traffic analyses have been conducted for the intersection of SR104 and 100t'/9 h
Avenue. The transportation element of the Comprehensive Plan will be updated in 2015.
Councilmember Bloom asked whether this would include pedestrian and non -motorized improvements.
Councilmember Johnson answered yes.
Council President Petso relayed although she voted in favor of this study last year, she does not support the
study now because it has morphed into a study that will not include traffic or capacity analyses. Problems
that exist at the Westgate intersection and capacity issues at SR104/76`h Avenue indicate those analyses need
to be included in the study. She questioned designing a sidewalk or bike lane only to find it needed to be
removed to create travel lanes. Councilmember Johnson answered the CIP project has not changed; it never
included that level of traffic analysis.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 15
Councilmember Buckshnis inquired about the outcome of the meeting between Mayor Earling, Mr. Chave,
Mr. English, Mr. Hauss and Councilmember Johnson. Mayor Earling responded as a result of that meeting,
staff is comfortable with the scope of the study.
Councilmember Bloom asked why a capacity analysis would not be included in the study and whether there
was a risk that sidewalks and bike trails could be eliminated in the future to add a right turn lane at Westgate.
City Engineer Rob English explained modeling that was done in the 2009 Transportation Plan to 2030 based
on projected growth both regionally and within Edmonds projected a level of service (LOS) at that
intersection of D. LOS D is the City's accepted LOS but as Councilmember Johnson indicated, there is no
LOS standard because SR104 is a corridor of statewide significant. When proposed development at Westgate
was considered last year, the projected growth remained at LOS D. Through the planning horizon of 2030
there is no projection for LOS to drop below D.
Councilmember Bloom asked whether there was a risk that sidewalks and bike trails could be eliminated
later. Mr. English answered based on best guestimates of population growth, etc. the LOS D is adequate. The
Transportation Plan will be updated as part of the Comprehensive Plan update in 2015; that planning horizon
is 2035 or 2040. He summarized it is difficult to project beyond that timeframe.
Councilmember Yamamoto asked whether the study would be completed next year. Mr. English anticipated
beginning the study next year, acknowledging one of the challenges is staff levels. Councilmember
Yamamoto asked whether the complete $150,000 was needed in 2014 or if only half would be needed in
2014. Mayor Earling relayed staff s indication it would take approximately nine months to complete the
study. Mr. English advised the duration of the study will be determined by the consultant's scope of work;
there will be an RFQ process followed by consultant selection and development of a scope of work that will
be presented to the Council for review and approval.
MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO VOTING NO.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $ Expense $
Fund
Requester
13
Green Resource Room at City Hall.
25,000
001
Peterson
13
Green Resource Room at City Hall.
8,333
421
Peterson
13
Green Resource Room at City Hall.
8,333
422
Peterson
13
Green Resource Room at City Hall.
8,333
423
Peterson
COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
APPROVE PACKAGE #13, A GREEN RESOURCE ROOM AT CITY HALL WITH $25,000 FROM
THE GENERAL FUND AND THE REMAINDER FROM EACH OF THE UTILITY FUNDS.
Councilmember Peterson explained the Green Resource Center, located on the second floor in the Building
Department, would provide a place for staff to present green alternatives to developers and citizens as well as
provide staff training on the latest green building technology. This will continue Edmonds' excellent
progress on more energy efficient public buildings as well as residences and commercial buildings.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked how the $25,000 would be used. Councilmember Peterson answered
it would fund reconfiguration of the second floor to provide space for displays such as pervious pavement,
insulation values, etc. It would also fund staff training. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked who would
provide staff training. Councilmember Peterson answered there are many organizations that provide training;
staff that attend training can then train other staff.
Councilmember Yamamoto inquired about the $8,333 from each utility. Councilmember Peterson advised
the funding provided by the utilities was appropriate because green building techniques have a positive effect
on each utility.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 16
For Councilmember Bloom, Councilmember Peterson explained the total funding is $50,000; $25,000 from
the General Fund and the remaining $25,000 equally divided between the three utilities. This is a one-time
expenditure to create the Green Resource Center; there may be minor ongoing expenses such as reprinting of
materials, etc. Councilmember Bloom asked whether there would be matching funds for grants to pay for
training. Councilmember Peterson responded he was not aware of grant -funded training; there are many
reasonably priced training opportunities.
Councilmember Bloom inquired about the utilities providing funding. Councilmember Peterson explained
training will include low impact development technology which is related to stormwater as well as water
conservation technology which is related to water and sewer. There is also a General Fund element.
Councilmember Johnson said education is a good first step in green technology. This has been discussed for
years by the Mayor's Climate Protection Committee as well as the Planning Board. Education will result in
better results for green buildings in the City.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
14
Small Matching Grant Reserves for Boards and
Commissions
50,000
001
Peterson
Councilmember Peterson explained he will reduce the amount requested as it was intended to include the tree
code rewrite by the Tree Board which was approved as Package #6.
COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
APPROVE #14 IN THE AMOUNT OF $25,000.
Councilmember Peterson explained unlike the funding for the tree board rewrite, this would provide
matching grants funds for boards and commissions that could be accessed quickly rather than seeking
Council approval for individual requests. He had nothing specific in mind other than allowing boards and
commissions to be creative in identifying opportunities.
Councilmember Bloom asked how boards and commission members know about grants, know the matching
funds are available or access the funds. For example the Tree Board does not have a dedicated staff member
to seek grants. Councilmember Peterson explained members of boards and committees often have
professional experience and/or networking where they learn about grant opportunities.
Councilmember Bloom asked whether a limit would be established for each board or commission.
Councilmember Peterson answered no, envisioning grant opportunities would be vetted through staff with a
recommendation to Council.
Council President Petso clarified the funds would not be awarded without Council approval. Councilmember
Peterson answered that would be ideal particularly in this first stage. If the funding was successful, perhaps
in future years funding under $2,000 could be done without Council approval.
Mr. Neumaier clarified this amount would be in Non -Departmental and would be accessed via a department
asking the Council for authority. Councilmember Peterson agreed.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas was uncomfortable with this concept when it had not been vetted well and
many boards and commissions do not have staff support.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 17
Councilmember Bloom commented most boards and commissions have Council liaisons. For example as the
liaison to the Tree Board, she will inform them of the availability of these funds. Mayor Earling offered to
send a notice to all boards and commissions of the availability of the funds and with further Council input,
outline the process for accessing the funds.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (5-2), COUNCILMEMBERS YAMAMOTO, BUCKSHNIS,
BLOOM AND PETERSON AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO VOTING YES;
COUNCILMEMBERS FRALEY-MONILLAS AND JOHNSON VOTING NO.
Pkg # Proposed Amendment Description Revenue $ Expense $ Fund Requester
15 Marsh Restoration Using Council Reserved 200,000 126 Buckshnis
$200K (note that we need to establish a
mechanism for contributions)
15 Remove Council reserve for projects (200,000) 126 Buckshnis
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON, TO
PUT $200,000 ASIDE IN A NEW FUND FOR MARSH RESTORATION.
Councilmember Buckshnis advised there is a tremendous amount of money available. She also
recommended establishing a 501(c)(3).
Council President Petso asked if this was intended to be a transfer from the General Fund or the 126 Fund.
Councilmember Buckshnis answered it was from the $400,000 membership/non-departmental in the General
Fund.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
16
Bank 1% Property Tax instead of Levying it in
2014
(98,000)
001
Petso
Council President Petso advised this item will be considered separately with the property tax ordinance.
Councilmember Buckshnis preferred to vote on this item separately. She relayed the 2014 budget is very
aggressive and there are unknowns associated with the 7% increase in revenue and the 16% increase in
expenditures. The City could use the $98,000 generated by a 1% increase in the property tax in a variety of
ways such as a redundant fiber optic line, etc. She preferred to maintain the status quo of levying a 1%
property tax increase each year.
Mr. Neumaier advised two ordinances have been prepared; they are identical with the exception of the
property tax levy; one ordinance increases the property tax levy by 1 %, the other banks the 1 % property tax
increase. There are three elements in the property tax ordinance: general property tax, the emergency medical
services (EMS) levy, and the public bond levy which will expire after 2016. With regard to the EMS levy, he
explained it has been at $0.50/$1000 of assessed value. Property values decreased in recent years; when
property values increase, the Council needs to affirm the $0.50/$1000 level.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON, TO
EXTEND THE MEETING FOR 40 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED (6-1), COUNCILMEMBER
FRALEY-MONILLAS VOTING NO.
Mr. Neumaier explained the Mayor's budget assumed the EMS levy would continue at the $0.50/$1000
level. That will generate only 80% of the revenue generated in 2009. Based on advice from the County
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 18
Assessor's Office, the ordinance must explicitly state the City wishes to keep the levy rate at $0.50 and state
the change in the amount and percentage. The ordinance states there is an 11 % increase in the EMS levy to
achieve consistency in the rate. With regard to the public bond levy, Mr. Neumaier explained it will expire
after 2016; there is no proposal to increase or decrease that element. He summarized the policy issue for the
Council's consideration is whether to bank the 1 % property tax or levy the 1 % property tax.
Mayor Earling suggested the Council complete their review of the amendment packages before voting on the
property tax levy.
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
17
Reduce Decision Package #46- GF portion of
001
Buckshnis
Reserve for Major Capital Projects. This
package could positively impact the General
Fund fund balance by an amount of from $0 to
$400 thousand General Fund impact
Pkg #
Proposed Amendment Description
Revenue $
Expense $
Fund
Requester
18
To the extent that the Council uses the
400,000
001
Neumaier
$400,000 one-time project reserve to fund
Projects, this amendment will transfer that
$400,000 to those projects rather than use fund
balance
Mr. Neumaier explained with the amendments that have been approved, the amount in Council one-time
projects is $497,000.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON, TO
REMOVE $400,000 FROM THE GENERAL FUND BECAUSE THE COUNCIL EXPENDED IT IN
THE PREVIOUS 15 ITEMS.
Council President Petso clarified the motion was effectively approving Item 18. Mayor Earling agreed.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
CONTINUE THE MAYOR'S BUDGET AS AMENDED TO THE DECEMBER 3 MEETING.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Property Tax Ordinance
Mr. Neumaier distributed the two property tax ordinances, levying the 1 % property tax increase or banking
the 1% property tax increase.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BLOOM, TO
APPROVE ORDINANCE NO. 3946 USING THE BANKED CAPACITY VERSION OF THE
ORDINANCE.
Council President Petso relayed a citizen's appreciation for the Council not taking money from citizens if it
was not needed. She expressed support for banking the capacity, noting it could be levied in future years if
necessary.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 19
Councilmember Buckshnis relayed she heard from six citizens who preferred to maintain the status quo. The
budget shows a $1.6 million deficit because expenses are 16% more than revenue. She preferred to maintain
the status quo of a 1% increase that had been done since the Eyman initiative was passed in 1999. She
envisioned the additional $98,000 could be used for a variety of purposes including fiber optic redundancy or
to cover the $98,100 that the Council exceeded its allocation for one-time expenditures.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented the City was at a point where they could give a little back to
citizens. If an additional $98,000 was needed, she suggested it be identified elsewhere in the budget. There is
an opportunity this year not to levy the 1% property tax increase, although she recognized the banked
capacity may need to be levied next year, resulting in a 2% increase. She supported the motion, summarizing
it was a good thing for the taxpayers.
Councilmember Peterson did not support the motion, pointing out it has been over a decade since Eyman's
initiative put a chokehold on city and county governments. The City provides service to its citizens and it is
due to the incredible staff that services have continued to exceed those offered by neighboring cities. Citizens
are aware that services such as an additional patrol officer or the other amendments the Council approved
cost money. He recognized some of the Council amendments were not must -haves such as the Green
Resource Room, but citizens are willing to provide their share to support quality of life. He emphatically
opposed banking the 1 % property tax increase.
Councilmember Bloom expressed support for the motion. She was disturbed by the approval of a 3 year
9.5% utility rate increase, a $266 increase to the average household. She felt this was the least the Council
could do to give citizens a little bit of a break, recognizing if the budget looked bad next year or the
following year, the Council could levy the banked capacity and citizens would understand.
Councilmember Johnson expressed support for the motion, finding it an opportunity for the Council to save
taxpayers some money. She was willing to relook at the budget to identify additional savings to compensate
for this.
Councilmember Peterson referred to the utility rate increases, explaining those increases were necessary
because the City has not raised some utility rates in nearly a decade, kicking the rate increase can down the
road. Now the Council wants to kick the tax increase can down the road and he anticipated the Council
would balk at raising property taxes 2% in the future even if the City needed the money. If the Council was
really interested in saving money in the budget, the Council likely would not have approved the foregoing
amendments.
Councilmember Buckshnis advised the utility rate increase is approximately $7.50/month or $90/year for 3
years. She agreed with Councilmember Peterson's comments. She questioned the source of the additional
$98,000 expended on Council amendments.
Council President Petso commented the budget was not $98,000 in the hole. There is a budget deficit of $1.6
million; most of it one-time expenditures. The City will end next year with nearly $10 million in the 001 and
002 funds. The Council could look for the $98,000 but she was inclined to say close enough and not worry
about it due to the City's healthy reserves.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (4-3), COUNCILMEMBERS FRALEY-MONILLAS,
JOHNSON AND BLOOM AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO VOTING YES;
COUNCILMEMBERS BUCKSHNIS, YAMAMOTO AND PETERSON VOTING NO.
8. DISCUSSION OF THE VOUCHER TO THE PUBLIC FACILITIES DISTRICT (PFD)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 20
Finance Director Roger Neumaier referred to Councilmember Bloom's question at the last Council meeting
regarding whether the Public Facilities District (PFD) had indicated their intent to request a lower loan
amount. He explained the budget included $190,000; the PFD requested $180,000. There was no discussion
or intent to request a lower amount.
9. CONTINUED DISCUSSION REGARDING THE ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION OF ANY
STRUCTURES OR USES RELATING TO COLLECTIVE GARDENS, MARIJUANA PRODUCTION,
PROCESSING, OR RETAILING IN THE CITY OF EDMONDS
City Attorney Jeff Taraday explained this was introduced to the Council in August/September; the memo
from that packet is included in tonight's packet. Since that time all three Council committees have addressed
the issue. He outlined he Council's policy choices: allow I-502 marijuana stores in Edmonds or ban them.
That decision will determine how staff proceeds. The moratorium expires approximately February 20, 2014.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas spoke in favor of allowing dispensaries in Edmonds, particularly in the
Hospital District, recognizing marijuana is increasingly prescribed for medical purposes. She recognized
further discussion of the specifics would be required.
Councilmember Johnson recalled Mr. Taraday's advice to wait to observe what happened in Kent's case. Mr.
Taraday answered it is still his opinion that the Council has the ability to ban but there has not yet been a
definitive ruling from the Court of Appeals or Supreme Court. That is also the consensus among attorneys in
the municipal law community. If anything changes in the coming months and it is determined the City cannot
ban, he will immediately inform the Council.
Council President Petso asked Police Chief Compaan, 1) whether he has a recommendation regarding
allowing or banning and 2) what he knows about difficulties or problem that arise if they are allowed. Chief
Compaan answered this is uncharted territory; he has his own personal and professional opinions. One can
hypothesize about the value added to society; there is still the conflict between state and federal law although
the Attorney General of the United States has indicated the federal government will take a step back with
certain conditions. The regulatory infrastructure established by the Liquor Control Board (LCB) provides a
fairly high degree of regulation including security and siting. There needs to be further uniformity between
the medical marijuana and the retailing of marijuana in state law as there currently are two separate systems
that are somewhat in conflict. He assumed the legislature would be revisiting that issue. He agreed it was a
policy decision for the Council.
Council President Petso referred to the required buffer zone around schools, parks, daycares, etc. and asked
whether an existing facility would be grandfathered if a daycare or park opened within the buffer. Mr.
Taraday answered he was uncertain what the LCB would do in that situation; there may be a renewal
process. He reiterated there is a fundamental question to be answered, whether the Council wants to allow
marijuana facilities or ban them. If the Council wants to allow them, there will be plenty of time to work out
the details such as the question Council President Petso posed. However, if the Council wants to ban them,
that question does not need to be answered.
Councilmember Buckshnis did not support a ban. Chief Compaan explained there is a difference between
dispensaries and retail establishments. Dispensaries are still illegal under state law although some
municipalities have looked the other way. Mr. Taraday clarified the decision tonight is only the 1-502 LCB
licensed facilities. Anything else will be banned because it is not allowed under state law now.
COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO DIRECT STAFF TO BRING BACK A RECOMMENDATION ADOPTING
ZONING AND OTHER ISSUES IN FAVOR OF ALLOWING MARIJUANA BUSINESSES AS
RELATED TO I-502. MOTION CARRIED (6-0-1), COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON ABSTAINED.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 21
10. REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS OF NOVEMBER 12, 2013
Public Safety & Personnel Committee
Councilmember Peterson reported on the following items discussed by the committee:
A. Residential Dwelling Sprinkler Report — Information only
B. Update for renewal of 2014 Executive Assistant to Council Employment Agreement — Consent
Agenda
C. Discussion and potential action regarding Chapter 2.10 — Full Council agenda item
D. Discussion and possible action regarding Code of Conduct — Full Council agenda item
E. Discussion regarding Council attendance via speaker phone — Full Council agenda item
Finance Committee
Councilmember Yamamoto reported on the following item discussed by the committee:
A. Update for renewal of 2014 Executive Assistant to Council Employment Agreement — Consent
Agenda
B. Authorization for Mayor to Sign Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement with
Alderwood Water & Wastewater District (A)VWD) — Consent Agenda
C. Authorization for the Mayor to Sign the SRF Loan from the State of Washington for WWTP
Switchgear Project— Full Council agenda item
D. Discussion of Edmonds Public Facilities District Task Force Preliminary Report — Information only
E. Discussion and Potential Action regarding Audited Financial Statement Issue and Council Oversight
of Removing Receivables — Full Council agenda item after PFD audit completed
F. 2013 November Budget Amendment — Full Council agenda item
G. 2013 September Budgetary Financial Report — Full Council agenda item
H. Authorization for Mayor to Sign HGAC Interlocal Contract for Cooperative Purchasing Agreement —
Consent Agenda
Parks, Planning & Public Works Committee
Councilmember Johnson reported on the following item discussed by the committee:
A. Minor technical amendments to ECDC 10.90.040 regarding the Historic Preservation Commission's
powers and duties - Consent Agenda
B. Expression of support for potential solar grant partnership — Consent Agenda with understanding
future memorandum of understanding resulting from successful grant require further Council review
C. 2014 Engineering and Development Services Fees resolution — Full Council agenda item
D. Authorization for Mayor to sign agreements with Frontier, Snohomish County PUD, Comcast, and
Astound Broadband, LLC for the underground conversion of overhead utility lines within the Five
Corners Roundabout project limits — Consent Agenda
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETERSON, TO
EXTEND THE MEETING FOR 10 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Johnson continued her report regarding items discussed by the Parks, Planning & Public
Works Committee:
E. Authorization for Mayor to Sign Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement with
Alderwood Water & Wastewater District — Consent Agenda
F. Authorization to award a contract for the Citywide Safety Improvements Project— Consent Agenda
G. Authorize Mayor to sign Interlocal Agreement with Snohomish County for Conservation Futures
Grant to acquire beachfront property — Consent Agenda
H. Authorization for Mayor to sign HGAC Interlocal Contract for Cooperative Purchasing Agreement —
Consent Agenda
1. Authorization for Mayor to sign Supplemental Agreement #8 with David Evans & Associates for
additional illumination work for the Five Corners Roundabout project— Consent Agenda
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 22
J. Authorization for Mayor to sign an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) with Snohomish County for a
Natural Yard Care Practices Outreach Program Targeting Homeowners — Consent Agenda
K. Authorization for the Mayor to sign Supplemental Agreement No. 2 with the Blueline Group for
additional construction inspection and administration services — Consent Agenda
L. Acceptance of a 50-foot street dedication (105th PI W) and authorization for Mayor to sign face of
plat documents accepting the street dedication — Full Council December 3, 2013
M. Veterans' Memorial Park Update — Full Council November 26, 2013
N. City Park project update — A special Parks, Planning & Public Works Committee meeting was held
on November 20.
11. REPORT ON OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas reported the Parking Committee is discussing more parking downtown. The
building to the south of the ferry terminal has underground long term rental parking. The Highway 99 Task
Force asked Mr. Chave to propose amendments to the zoning on Highway 99 to allow different types of
development. The EDC was provided an update on the Westgate project.
Councilmember Johnson reported on the Historical Society dinner that was attended by over 200 people. She
attended the Planning Board's November 13 meeting, the HPC's November 14 meeting and the EDC's
November 20`h meeting.
Councilmember Peterson reported on the PFD meeting, relaying the PFD has hired some additional staff to
fill vacancies. ECA Staff reported ticket sales for all this year's performances have been at or near 90%.
Councilmember Buckshnis reported on the WRIA 8 meeting, relaying that the legislature funded the Puget
Sound Acquisition and Restoration Program in the amount of $70 million for 2013 through 2015. Seven
members of WRIA 8 are retiring. She reported Mayor Earling provided an update on Sound Transit at the
Snohomish County Tomorrow meeting. The meeting also included updates on SEPA regulations and the
2015 Comprehensive Plan update.
Councilmember Bloom reported the Tree Board meeting included comment from a citizen concerned with a
large tree in the City right-of-way. Mr. Lindsay will follow up with the citizen. The Tree Board also
reviewed the draft proposal for obtaining permitting and approval for tree removal and trimming within City
rights -of -way, funding for the tree code rewrite and impervious surface and tree canopy inventories.
Councilmember Bloom reported the Port meeting included reports from Commissioners regarding
information provided at a conference regarding farmers markets and DOE stormwater regulations.
Council President Petso reported on meetings staff held with residents: November 20 to discuss the Sunset
Walkway project and November 21 to discuss the 76`h Avenue construction project.
Mayor Earling reported the Sound Transit Board approved the Northgate to Lynnwood preferred alternative.
12. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Earling reminded of Small Business Saturday, an opportunity to shop local, and the tree lighting
ceremony on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. in front of City Hall.
13. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Council President Petso reported according to the code, the EDC is to provide a report on or around the first
meeting in December. By mutual agreement it will be scheduled the first week of January.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 23
Councilmember Bloom relayed the Port's invitation for the public to visit the marina for Holiday on the
Docks sponsored by the Edmonds Yacht Club in the guest moorage area of the Port marina December 1
through January 5.
Councilmembers Buckshnis and Johnson wished everyone Happy Thanksgiving and safe travels.
Councilmember Fraley-Monillas congratulated Senator John McCoy, 38"' District, who was appointed
tonight.
Mayor Earling relayed Swedish -Edmonds Hospital is again operational following a fire on Thursday,
November 21.
14. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION
PER RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)
This item was not needed.
15. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING IN
EXECUTIVE SESSION
This item was not needed.
16. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:55 p.m.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
November 26, 2013
Page 24