Cmd080420EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL
VIRTUAL ONLINE MEETING
APPROVED MINUTES
August 4, 2020
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Mike Nelson, Mayor
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Council President
Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember
Luke Distelhorst, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
Vivian Olson, Councilmember
Susan Paine, Councilmember
Laura Johnson, Councilmember
1. CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE
STAFF PRESENT
Jim Lawless, Interim Police Chief
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Shane Hope, Development Services Director
Jessica Neill Hoyson, HR Director
Kernen Lien, Environmental Programs Mgr.
Dave Turley, Interim Finance Director
Rob English, City Engineer
Bertrand Hauss, Transportation Engineer
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Scott Passey, City Clerk
The Edmonds City Council virtual online meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Nelson. The
meeting was opened with the flag salute.
2. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Councilmember K. Johnson read the City Council Land Acknowledge Statement: "We acknowledge the
original inhabitants of this place, the Sdohobsh (Snoliotnish) people and their successors the Tulalip
Tribes, who since time immemorial have hunted, fished, gathered, and taken care of these lands. We
respect their sovereignty, their right to self-determination, and we honor their sacred spiritual connection
with the land and water."
3. ROLL CALL
City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present, participating remotely.
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
DISTELHORST, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER.
Councilmember K. Johnson asked whether the Council was ready for Agenda Item 8.2, Approval of
Sound Transit Funding Agreement for Citywide Bicycle Improvement Project bicycle and Item 8.3,
Proposed Amendment to ECC 2.10.010 for Council Review of Appointive Positions, or if further
discussion was needed before taking action. Council President Fraley-Monillas said although she had not
spoken to all Councilmembers, she believed the Council was as ready as they were going to get and if the
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 1
Council was not ready, it would be quickly apparent. She suggested continuing to move forward because
she did not know each Councilmember's position.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5. PRESENTATIONS
JOHN REED PROCLAMATION
Mayor Nelson read a proclamation thanking the Family of John Reed for his help and hard work in
shaping Edmonds and proclaiming August 4"' as John Reed Day in Edmonds and asking all Edmonds
citizens to show their appreciation for John's endeavors on behalf of the Edmonds community with a
moment of silence.
Mayor Nelson recognized Mr. Reed's daughter Rebecca Linville and son Justin Reed who were present at
the Zoom meeting. Ms. Linville thanked the Council for letting them be a part of the meeting and
recognizing their dad's hard work and dedicated service. He loved Edmonds and loved working with
many on the Council. His family is proud of him and the work he did for the City. He was a great person,
father, grandfather, and friend. They haven't had a chance to memorialize him and hoped to have
something in Edmonds in the future.
Ms. Linville explained after her dad passed away and Justin and she were going through his things, they
found his bronze star medal. They knew he spent time in Vietnam, but did not hear much about it. The
bronze star medal is the fourth highest military honor that someone can receive. They were unaware that
he had received that medal, she assumed for a variety of reasons. It shows that he didn't do things for
accolades, he was very quiet about all the work he did and the great things he accomplished in life and
notoriety given to him. They miss him so much and thanked the Council for recognizing all the years of
work and the great things he did for the City of Ediiionds.
Justin Reed echoed his sister's comments and thanked the Council for recognizing his dad. It means a lot
to Rebecca and his families and affirms how much their dad cared about Edmonds and how much he
meant to the City.
2. SECOND QUARTER FINANCE REPORT
Acting Finance Director Dave Turley expressed his sorrow to the Reeds for their loss. He reviewed:
2020 Sales
Tax Revenues
Sales Tax: receipted
For Sales made in:
Budgeted
Actual or
(Over)
Actual or
in:
Revenue
Estimated
Under
Estimate,
Receipts
Budget
as a % of
Budget
January 2020
November 2019
$635,000
$692,248
$ 57,248)
109%
(Actual)
February 2020
December 2019
800,000
847,349
(47,349)
106%
(Actual)
March 2020
January 2020
595,000
648,279
(53,279)
109%
(Actual)
April 2020
February 2020
565,000
--503;725
61,275
89%
(Actual)
May 2020
March 2020
730,000
500,196
229,804
69%
(Actual)
June 2020
April 2020
666,000
570,127
95,873
86%
(Actual)
July 2020
May 2020
707,000
565,600
141,400
80%
(Estimate)
August 2020
June 2020
785,000
588,750
196,250
75%
(Estimate)
September 2020
July 2020
730,000
511,000
219,000
70%
(Estimate)
October 2020
August 2020
748,000
523,600
224,400
70%
(Estimate)
November 2020
September 2020
789,000
552,300
236,700
70%
(Estimate)
December 2020
October 2020
700,000
490,000
210,000
70%
(Estimate)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 2
$8,450,000 $6,993,174 $1,456,826 83%
Edmonds' economy is not doing as poorly as other areas of the country
o Parks is down considerably due to canceling nearly all summer programs
o New construction is still going strong
o Real estate sales remain strong
■ REET revenues are ahead of budget
o Most revenues are below budget as can be expected, but not significantly
o Due to strategic cuts in some expenses, expense reductions more than offset loss in revenues
over the year
Uvdate General Fund Forecast for 2020
Amended Budget Current Updated Forecast
_Revenue
Property Taxes
$14,850,148
$14 850,000
100%
Retail Sales Tax
8,450,000
7,000 000
83%
Other Sales Tax
760,500
720,000
95%
Utility Tax
6,776,200
6 720 0 00
99%
Other Taxes
343,740
320,000
93%
License/Permits/Franchise
1,585,130
1,485,000
94%
Construction Permits
675,600
676,000
100%
Grants
36,650
36,650
100%
State Revenues
910,410
960,000
105%
Charges for Goods & Services
3,127,662
2 6003000
83%
Interfund Service Char es
3,290,838
35040,000
92%
Fines & Forfeitures
542,940
320,000
59%
Miscellaneous Revenues
918,240
800,000
87%
Transfers
1,535,800
1,035,000
67%
Total Revenues
43,803 858
40,462,650
Change in Revenues
_7,4%
Expenditures
Labor
17,820,288
17,107,476
96%
Benefits
6,599,678
6,335,691
96%
Supplies
519,786
524,984
101%
Services
18,996,956
18,427,047
97%
Capital
1,048,120
298,120
28%
Debt Service
306,600
306,600
100%
Transfers
3,266,993
1,266,993
39%
Total Expenses
$48,58,421
$44,266,912
Chance in Expenses
-8.8%
Revenues minus Expenses
4,754,563
3,704 262
Beginning Fund Balance
19,050,690
19,050,690
Projected Ending Fund Balance
$14,296,127
$15,346,428
Mr. Turley recalled a question during last week's Council retreat whether the City's salaries and benefits
equate to 70-80% like a lot of other cities. His research he found Edmonds' salaries and benefits come to
about 50%; one of the big reasons is because Edmonds outsources fire protection. He pointed out the
Services line, $18,996,956, approximately half of which is fire protection. If the City had a Fire
Department, salaries and benefits would be approximately 70-75%.
Mr. Turley continued his presentation:
• Graph Sales Tax Revenue last 4 Quarters budget to actual July 2018 — June 2020
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 3
o Chart sales tax revenues budget to actual July -Dec 2018, Jan -June 2019, July -Dec 2019 and
Jan -June 2020
Graph REET Revenues last 4 Quarters budget to actual July 2018 — June 2020
o Chart REET revenues budget to actual July -Dec 2018, Jan -June 2019, July -Dec 2019 and
Jan -June 2020
* Parks Operating Expense Budget last 4 quarters budget to actual July 2018 — June 2020
o Chart parks operating expenses budget actual July -Dec 2018, Jan -June 2019, July -Dec 2019
and Jan -June 2020
■ Police Expense Budget lasts 4 quarters budget to actual July 2018 — June 2020
o Chart police operating expenses budget to actual July -Dec 2018, Jan -June 2019, July -Dec
2019 and Jan -June 2020
• Fund Balance in the General Fund — Reserved and Unreserved (policy requires report to Council
every August about fund balances)
o General Fund Operating Revenue = 16% of GF Operating Adopted Expenditure Budget
■ General Fund Subfunds $7.97 million (amount in excess of required policy)
■ General Fund Operating Reserve: $7.72 million (16% of operating budget)
■ Civic Field: $2 million
Councilmember Buckshnis said she had sent Mr. Turley about ten questions. She asked why the General
Fund and Changes in Fund Balance was not included in the packet. She asked why there was a difference
between the ending fund balance in 2019 of $11.3 million and the beginning fund balance in 2020 of
$15.5 million. Mr. Turley said the reason it was not in packet was after he uploaded the information at
deadline, he realized it was not included. With regard to the beginning and ending fund balance, the two
columns on the right on the schedule are actually January to June so they are six month balances.
Typically in a year-to-year comparison, the ending fund balance for one year is the beginning fund
balance in the next column. Councilmember Buckshnis said this can be verified on page 15 of the budget
hnnk_
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to the spreadsheet on packet page 19, Revenues — General Fund,
expressing appreciation for the footnotes. She asked if he had any insight about car sales. Mr. Turley said
he has not visited any of the dealerships to talk to them. Sales tax revenue from car sales tracks more
closely to what matters to the City versus the number of cars they sell; the last six months of 2020
compared to the same 6 months in 2019, sales tax is about 16% lower. If that tracks with car sales, they
are about 15-16% below last year at this time, not a bad reduction all things considered. Councilmember
Buckshnis pointed out Utilities in the same spreadsheet, Line 14, shows near all has been used up in first
six months; she asked about that discrepancy. Mr. Turley said he would look into it.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to overtime in the Street Fund, Storm, HR, Police, Development
Services, etc., and asked if that was COVID related. Mr. Turley answered not really. In Public Works, it
was due to snow in January, the wayside horns and Main Street opening.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to Expenditures by Fund — Detail (page 24), noting repairs and
maintenance in REET 125 and 126 are already over budget, one 115% of budget and the other 179%. Mr.
Turley answered the bulk was attributable to parks, there was a large contract for design work on Civic
Field; much of it was done in the second half of last year and the other half done during the first half of
this year, a $1.2-1.3 million contract.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she had several other questions but would talk to staff offline tomorrow.
She referred to City of Edmonds Investment Portfolio Detail (page 48) and complimented Mr. Turley on
the investment portfolio. She asked if any of the bonds were callable. Mr. Turley was not certain bond by
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 4
bond, some may not be callable for a year; he assumed interest rates were such that when they become
callable they would be called.
Recalling the City received a AAA rating, Councilmember Buckshnis asked if the City had issued bonds.
Mr. Turley answered yes. Councilmember Buckshnis asked if general obligation in non -departmental was
ECA. Mr. Turley answered that is the Civic bonds; the City does not make any bond payments on behalf
of the ECA.
Councilmember K. Johnson commented the City is in good shape with its fund balance, in a large part
due to the prior administration, prior finance director, Long Range Financial Committee and the Finance
Committee who were working together to ensure a healthy fund balance and reserves just in case a
tragedy occurred like what occurred in Arlington. With regard to the updated General Fund forecast for
2020, she recalled Mr. Turley saying not as much would be spent under transfers due to postponing some
capital projects. She asked him to describe which projects would be postponed. Mr. Turley answered $2
million was budgeted for 2020 for Civic Field; $2 million that was set aside in the General Fund which
was included in the budget as a transfer and another $1 million was budgeted for capital facilities
maintenance. A lot of that work will not be done.
Councilmember K. Johnson suggested Parks and Public Works provide an update to Council to identify
those projects. She commented there was a great deal of interest in Civic Field and the City has sold
bonds; she asked if the City was engaging in that project or postponing it. Mr. Turley said Civic Field
went out to bid in April; the bids were much higher than budgeted. With all things considered, rebidding
has been put off until early next year.
Public Works Director Phil Williams said the next four months will be very busy including the elevator
repair ($400,000), replacing all the windows on the east side of City Hall, re-lamping City Hall and
similar LED updates in other buildings. He anticipated that would all be accomplished between now and
the end of the year. Public Works is not delaying any projects. There were also funds in the budget for the
marsh; those are primarily utility funds although some general governmental funds would have been
required to match the grant, but that project is not moving forward this year.
Councilmember L. Johnson referred to Police Operating Expenses (page 12), and asked why it was under
budget. Mr. Turley answered one significant item is the budget includes a police chief and two assistant
police chiefs. The City currently has Acting Chief Lawless doing the work of two people which results in
a significant salary savings. He concluded that was likely a large part of it.
Councilmember Olson referred to the Updated General Fund Forecast for 2020 (page 8) and asked if
deceased fines and forfeitures was related to decreased police enforcement due to COVID. She said she
was asking less about the budget and more about safety. There have been a lot of discussions and
complaints about the fountain for example, that people are not stopping which is dangerous for
pedestrians. Mr. Turley answered when the area went into lockdown, there was not much traffic so fewer
speeding tickets were written and the City stopped writing parking tickets. He concluded parking fines,
speeding tickets, reckless driving tickets, etc. were down which accounted for the decline in revenue.
Councilmember Olson referred to transfers on that same page and asked what that means. Mr. Turley
answered in expenditures, most of it was the $2 million transfer for Civic Field. Councilmember Olson
referred to expenditures for the Mayor's Office: and the Council Office, assuming the Council was lower
because they are not attending seminars, etc. She asked why the Office of the Mayor was higher than
budgeted. Mr. Turley answered with the change in mayor, the health benefits were different than what
was budgeted. Councilmember Olson referred to the increase in Finance and asked if that was due to the
severance package. Mr. Turley agreed it was the severance package.
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August 4, 2020
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Councilmember Olson referred to the Monthly Expenditure Report -Facilities Maintenance (page 46),
noting expenditures were quite low. Recognizing there has been a lot of deferred maintenance, to the
extent the money was budgeted, she personally would like to those projects accomplish as they will
become more expensive by letting them go. Mr. Williams reiterated the last half of this year will include a
tremendous amount of spending on capital renewal projects, much more than the first six months. That is
partially due to COVID and some of it is just the timing of the projects.
Mayor Nelson suggested in the future if the Council planned to ask staff to make estimations about
expenses in particular departments, they give administration a heads up so the appropriate department
representative could address those questions in advance.
Councilmember Buckshnis appreciated having the time to vet this, pointing out the Finance Committee
usually spends a lot of time on this, regardless of Council President Fraley-Monillas' thought that
financials are mundane.
6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS HTTPS://Z00M.US/S/4257752.525
Mayor Nelson invited participants and described the procedures for audience comments.
Aliza Fallon, Edmonds, referred to the Sound Transit grant for bike lanes. He works at a bike shop in
Lynnwood; no one likes riding next to traffic because it's scary. A lot of people come to the shop asking
for maps of the Edmonds, Seattle, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace area because they want to ride in
protected or designated bike lanes. Adding bike lanes to Edmonds will bring in more people because they
will feel safe riding there. Bicycles and e-bikes will lead the way for greener and cleaner transportation.
He found it a bit ridiculous to forego moving toward a better, cleaner transportation system at the expense
of a few parking spaces or as some have said, lowering property values. He expressed his support for the
project.
Michelle Dotsch, Edmonds, thanked the Council for honoring John Reed; she was honored to have know
him and he continues to be a role model for all. She noted community engagement was a large topic at the
Council retreat in early 2020. A real concern for nearly everyone was the issue of silos; silos between
Mayor and Council, between Councilmembers, staff and administration and individual departments and
greatest of all silos with citizens. The pandemic and subsequent lockdown has amplified silos; citizens are
even more isolated, forced to use technology; virtual Zoom meetings do not really gather people together.
A week ago the Council received pages of printed public comment; over 80%, most from residents in the
9"', Bowdoin and Walnut neighborhoods, imploring the Council to delay or vote no on the Sound Transit
sponsored project to add dedicated bike lanes to those streets. If people could gather in Council
Chambers, she envisioned the Council would have heard over 2'/2 hours of public comments with the
Chambers packed to capacity which she said was public engagement.
Ms. Dotsch expressed concern that the public's comments are not read publicly, just printed the Friday
after the meeting, seemly a disservice to citizens. Considering that over 80% of citizens, those who are
able to email who are truly personally impacted, many of whom are seniors or disabled and are negatively
affected by this project are asking the Council to listen and at a minimum delay the vote so they can
participate fully before a decision is made. If the Council votes to proceed, few changes will be made.
Many Councilmembers were involved in public organizing on other issues such as marsh restoration,
crumb rubber, pedestrian improvement, saving Brackett's Landing beach; if the Council tries to engage
with COVID restrictions on gathering, only the people who have access to computers, internet and apps
can participate. She requested the Council wait to make a decision until able to gather publicly. She
recalled during campaigning, candidates said it would be different this time, they would listen and take up
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 6
their concerns. In the end that seems like lip service because outside entities are telling them what is best
for Edmonds. There are productive discussions to be had.
Mike DeLilla, Seattle, City of Edmonds Senior Utilities Engineer, spoke in favor of the citywide bicycle
improvements. The project is consistent with Ordinance 3842 regarding Complete Streets and adding bike
lanes to all arterial and collector streets. It is also consistent with the 2015 Comprehensive Transportation
Plan. With regard to routes, he has been a frequent rider and driver on the 100"' Street and Bowdoin
routes for the last 10 years; 100"' is the only north -south road that can become a Complete Street.
Expensive right-of-way acquisition would be required on 95"' and 84"'. With regard to the east -west route,
he supported Walnut and Bowdoin. With regard to suggestions to use Main instead, he highly
recommended not using Main because that hill is a category 3 or 4 for the Tour de France and a regular
person would not ride it. With regard to parking, the vast majority of parking on those two alignments is
unused most of the time. On 100", there is a huge 8-12 foot retaining wall on the east side and parking is
only there because it's striped as such. He acknowledged there will be some sacrifices on that corridor,
but goal is to share the road and the parking. He referred to the residents' targeted campaign that said
staff s goal was to completely remove parking, not improve crossings, create dangers and that there
would be no public engagement. That is very misleading and provides a platform for people to bring up
their worst fears without having all the data. This project is early in the process and all those things will
happen once the project moves forward.
Margaret Elwood, Edmonds, said she was participating in the meeting to listen to the Council's
deliberations. She expressed support for the bike lanes, commenting it would be unfortunate and
incredibly short sighted to forego the grant funds for the bike lanes. As an advocate for bike lanes and a
passionate bike rider, she encouraged the Council to support cyclists.
Andrew Morgan, Edmonds, a resident on 9"' Avenue, said losing on -street parking is a real problem for
reasons he expressed previously. Although there can be discussions about grant strategies, what happens
on that street needs to be considered on a micro basis. The flyer that residents received mentioned a 50%
reduction, but the outcry was because a lot of people would have the same problem that his wife and he
will have. He and his neighbors are not opposed to bike lanes, but they want bike lanes where they make
the most sense. To many of them, this feels like it is being imposed top down in a very authoritative
manner. It is important to stop and get meaningful input from citizens and not just the professional
opinions of staff. Nothing can take the place of taking a deep dive with the public and understanding
what's at stake. COVID has turned everything upside down and more time is needed to find the best
solution. He referred to the alternatives presented by Ms. Dotsch that include bike lanes that the
community should discuss. He suggested an open house or outdoor meeting. He took a flight today and is
currently on the other side of the United States; if people can get into planes, trains, buses, and ferries and
maintain social distancing, surely there is a way to meet at City Hall.
(Written comments submitted to PublicComment@Edmonds.wa.gov are attached.)
7. APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
PAINE, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The
agenda items approved are as follows:
APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF DULY 28, 2020
2. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS AND WIRE PAYMENT
8. ACTION ITEMS
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 7
1, WASTEWATER TREATMENT DISPOSAL AND. TRANSPORT CONTRACT
EXTENSION
Public Works Director Phil Williams explained the City has had a very productive partnership with
Mountlake Terrace, Olympic View Water and Sewer District (OVWSD) and the Ronald Wastewater
District for about 32 years. The original agreement was signed in 1988 that extended through May 2018.
About a year before it was to expire, it was obvious the ongoing service area dispute between OVWSD
and Ronald over the possible Pt. Wells development would not be resolved, so the agreement was
extended for two years in May 2017. That agreement expired in May 2019 and was extended to May
2020. Mountlake Terrace, OVWSD and Edmonds approved the new agreement but Ronald, which
represents, 9.488% of the revenue to the system, said they could not sign until the final resolution of the
lawsuit with OVWSD via a decision by Washington Supreme Court. It is unknow when that will occur or
what the decision will say; the decision could resolve some issues and send it back to the original court
which could take a while.
Ronald, Mountlake Terrace, OVWSD have approved this 18 month extension. Approving the 18 month
extension will lock in the 9.488% from Ronald under the old agreement and during the 18 months
pendency, the money that will be borrowed this fall will be spent on the carbon recovery project at the
WWTP. He was seeking Council authorization for the Mayor to sign the agreement and extend it for 18
months.
Councilmember Distelhorst observed the only thing that has changed in the agreement that was before
Council on May 5t" was the date; it was simply an extension. Mr. Williams agreed.
Councilmember Buckshnis recalled discussing this briefly during the gasification project for the WWTP.
She asked if this will have any impact other than solidifying their position. Mr. Williams said it means all
the partners are onboard and will pay their share of that project. Councilmember Buckshnis asked if the
Supreme Court would determine who gets Pt. Wells. Mr. Williams answered yes. Councilmember
Buckshnis asked if Ronald's percentage would increase if Ronald gets Pt. Wells. Mr. Williams responded
the capital percentage was locked in 1988 via the original agreement. The O&M changes slightly each
year based on flows but the capital percentage is locked in. Ronald owns 9.488% of the available
permitted capacity at the WWTP.
COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-
MONILLAS, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZE MAYOR NELSON TO SIGN THE 18
MONTH CONTRACT EXTENSION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. APPROVAL OF SOUND TRANSIT FUNDING AGREEMENT FOR CITYWIDE
BICYCLE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
Public Works Director Phil Williams provided an introduction, explaining staff will provide some
information from the previous presentation as well as new information in response to questions that have
come up. City Engineer Rob English, Mr. Hauss and he are -present to answer questions.
Transportation Engineer Bertrand Hauss explained a letter was distributed to many residents living on
Bowdoin and 1001" that contained some misinformation which was the reason for some of the negative
comments. The letter stated the City's goal was to remove all the parking on those corridors which is
incorrect; more parking studies will be conducted and not all parking will be removed. There will be
multiple open houses in the future. He referred to a comment made last week that bike lanes have never
been added in a residential stretch; he citied 76"' as part of the Bike2Health Project where bike lanes were
added where there was single family and multifamily residential on both sides of the street and there has
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 8
been no negative feedback. He summarized it had been done successfully in the past and he was confident
it would be successful on these corridors. There was also mention of pedestrian safety; as part of this
project staff will look into the possibility of adding mid -block pedestrian crossings so residents can cross
from parking. Whether to retain the two northbound and southbound through lanes in Westgate will be
reevaluated during the design phase.
Mr. Hauss reviewed:
Introduction
0 2017: Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, and Lynnwood added bike lanes throughout the
transportation system (through Bike-2-Health Secured Grant) with focus on north / central
part of Edmonds (- 7 Miles of bike lanes in Edmonds).
0 2019: Sound Transit had a call for projects with the intent to improve active transportation
access to their Sound Transit Stations (MLT Transit Station & Edmonds Station)
o City secured $1.85 Million in grant funding(100% Sound Transit access grant / no local
match).
o All stretches identified in 2015 Transportation Plan (adopted by Council in 2015)
o Proposed bike improvements with focus on south side and central part of Edmonds
■ 100t'Ave W / 9t"Ave N
■ Bowdoin Way
■ 228"' St SW and
■ 80"' Ave W
Project description - Map of citywide bicycle improvements (1 mile, '/2 mile, '/4 mile of Edmonds
Transit Center and Mountlake Terrace Transit Center)
o Proposed sharrows
o Proposed bike lane
o Existing sharrows
o Existing bike lane
o Existing bike path
Cross sections
o 100"' Ave W from 238"' St. SW to north of SR-104
* Existing conditions with 2 travel lanes in each direction
■ Striping -only proposed section
- Road diet (one lane in each direction with 2-way left turn lane and bike lanes)
*Sections within signalized intersections (such as SR-104 @100"' Ave W) to be reevaluated
during design phase*
Sharrow Markings (possible addition with SR-104 @ 100t1i Ave W)
o Such markings to be added along stretches where travel lanes can't be removed.
■ Reminder to driver of potential bike activity.
o The shared lane marking is intended to inform cyclists and motorists where a travel lane is
shared by both modes.
- Encourage safe passing of cyclist by motorist.
- Assist cyclists with lateral positioning in a shared lane with on -street parallel parking in
order to reduce the chance of a bicyclist impacting the DOOR OF PARKED VEHICLE.
Photo of existing conditions with (2) travel lanes in each direction south of SR-104
Photo of proposed conditions with 2-way left turn lane and bike lanes (on 761'' Ave W)
Results from recent/similar conversion along 76"' Ave. W from 220"' to 212th
o Average daily traffic (ADT)
■ 76"' Ave.: 11,500 vehicles per day
■ 100t' Ave. W (south of SR-104): 9,000 vehicles per day
■ 100t" Ave W (north of SR-104): 5,000 vehicles per day
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 9
■ Stretches with ADT less than 10,000 VPD are great candidates for road diets
(source: FHWA)
Benefits for cyclist
o Dedicated lane => improves safety for cyclists by providing a lane separated from vehicles
o Cyclists more visible to motorist compared to when riding on sidewalk with sight distance
obstructions
o Pavement markings and signs will make motorist more aware of bike activity along each
corridor
o The increase in bike activity will make the cyclists more visible to the driver.
Vehicle Benefits (based on FHWA/Local studies)
o Diagrams identifying conflict points on four lane undivided and three lane
• Impacts to travel time
o Minimal impacts to travel time (as shown (as shown when 76th Ave. W conversion was
completed from 220t" to OVD=> 2'/4 mile stretch)
■ 313 seconds (26 mph) for NB movement to 332 seconds (25 mph)
• 279 seconds (29 mph) for SB movement to 293 seconds (28 mph)
o Reduce ►arutrGer o(confYicls points (from 8 to 4)
o Reduce speeds _(85"' percentile reductions from 2 mph to 5 mph (based on various case
studies completed across US) / more consistent pace
• Safety Improvement for cross traffic (cross streets/driveways)
o Can enter the mainline roadway more safely because there are fewer lanes to cross
o Refuge area can be provided when accessing corridor (with two-way left turn lane)
• Reduction in % of vehicle crashes from 19% to 47% ("road diets" / FHWA)
o Parking can still be maintained in area with high parking demand (with removal of two-way
left turn lane / to be considered upon studying left turn demand)
o No impacts to emergency vehicles (actually easier to get through corridor)
• Benefits for pedestrians
o Bike lane provide buffer between sidewalk and travel lanes
o Less travel lanes to cross at crosswalks
• Benefits for entire transportation system
o Supports complete streets policy (ECDC 18.80.015)
o Many improvements for all modes
o Improve gas emissions (improvements will get more drivers out of vehicles / onto bike to
reach destination or bike to reach bus stop)
• Existing cross section along 100"' from SR-104 to Walnut St & Bowdoin Way from 100"' to 84t"
o Proposed conditions with bike lanes on both side of street / parking on one side (parking
alternating from one side of street to other)
o Proposed conditions with one travel lane in each direction, a two-way left turn lane and bike
lanes on both sides (with very low parking demand)
• Bike accident summary (pre / post Bike-2-Health project)
o (8) Minor injury cyclist collisions between 2012 —2017 (prior to completion of Bike-2-Health
Proj ect)
• (2) Along 2.121h St. SW between 72" d Ave. W and 84--"' Ave. W
■ (6) Along 76"' Ave. W between 220th St. SW And OVD
— Cyclist hit by vehicle while riding on sidewalk => due to limited sight distance with
fences/vegetation
— Cyclist impact with open door of parked car
— Cyclist going through hit turning vehicle
o (0) Minor injury cyclist collisions between 2017 —2019 (after completion of Bike-2-Health
project)
■ With increase in cyclist activity along those streets
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 10
Bike accidents along proposed stretches between 2015 and 2019
o (4) Bike collisions along 100t" Ave. W stretch and (1) along 228"' St. SW stretch
• Cyclist hit while riding in sidewalk due to limited sight distance
■ Cyclists hit while going through by turning vehicle
Parking information
o 100"' from SR-104 to Walnut St (# parking stalls occupied during mid -afternoon time period/
Source: Parking study and Google Maps
August
2011
June
2015
Sept
2018
Sept
2019
July
2020
West side of stretch —160 stalls
11 7%
9 6%
9 6%
17 10%
9 6%
East side of stretch —130 stalls
6(5%)
2 2%
4 3%
6(5%)
6(5%)
o Bowdoin Way from 9"' Ave S to 84"' Ave W (# parking stalls occupied during mid -afternoon
period / Source: Field Study & Good Maps)
Sept 2018
Sept 2019
July 2020
North side of stretch —220 stalls.
11 5%
18 8%
16 7%
South side of stretch —180 stalls
3 (2%)
8 6%
4 3%
o Additional parking studies to be completed during design phase to find high demand areas
Mr. Williams said he drove both streets a couple times in the last week. Although the parking is not
heavily used the majority of the time, a lot of additional space could be identified for parking in the after
condition. The efficiency of the on -street parking on 9` Avenue could also be dramatically improved by
marking individual spaces such as was done downtown which resulted in about 20% more parking
spaces.
Mr. Hauss continued his presentation:
• 76"' a 212t" Intersection (bike count from 7 am to 9 am and 4 DM to 6 pair)
Date
Total Bike Count
(4 hourperiod)
Notes
4/26/16
16
4/27/16
18
Avg
17 cyclist/4 hours in April ' 16
re Bike2Health Pro'ect
4/28/16
18
8/30/16
23
8/31/16
25
9/1/16
32
10/17/17
7
10/18/17
9
Avg
7 cyclist/4 hours in October '17
iv Bike2Health Project
10/19/17
6
4/23/19
13
4/24/19
43
Avg
28 cyclist/4 hours in Al2ril ' 19(post
Bike2Health Project
4/25/19
29
7/16/19
17
7/17/19
24
7/18/19
25
9/17/19
21
9/18/19
43
Avg
32 cyclist/4 hours in Sept ' 19(post
Bike2Health Project
9/19/19
51
12/17/19
24
12/18/19
18
12/19/19
20
■ 9"' @ Walnut Intersection (bike county from 7 am to 9 am & 4 pm to 6 pm)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page I I
Date
Total Bike Count
4 hourperiod)
4/26/-1-6
1-1
4/27/16
8
4/28/16
8
8/30/16
17
8/31/16
6
9/1/16
6
6/27/17
15
18
6/28/17
6/29/17
18
10/17/17
7
10/18/17
7
10/19/17
6
4/23/19
9
4/24/ 19
6
4/25/19
5
7/16/19
17
7/17/19
16
7/18/19
8
9/17/19
6
9/18/19
21
9/19/19
10
12/17/19
2
12/18/19
6
12/19/19
0
• Project Schedule
o Design phase
■ Consultant selection process August 2020
■ Start design September 2020
• Completion of design December 2021
o Construction phase
■ Start of construction April 2022
■ Completion of construction December 2022
Note: If ROW phase is needed for roadway widening, construction could be pushed back one
year
■ Support from other agencies
o Edmonds Bicycle Advocacy Group (EBAG)
o Cascade Bicycle Advocacy
o City of Shoreline
o City of Lynnwood
o City of Mountlake Terrace
o Community Transit
o Edmonds School District
■ Conclusion
o Approval of Sound Transit Agreement
Councilmember Distelhorst expressed appreciation for the updated safety statistics and actual bike counts.
Recognizing this was planned 5-6 years ago, he asked why these corridors were selected and why Main,
8t" or other streets were not selected. He noted he had ideas as a rider but wanted to know from a
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 12
transportation engineer's viewpoint why the proposed streets worked better. Mr. Hauss answered they are
the quickest route to the destination, linking existing facilities. He referred to alternate routes where the
distance was longer, taking riders longer to reach their destination and where slopes were also an issue.
He noted Main Street is a steep uphill slope, approximately 10%, and even on the downhill, a lot of riders
are not comfortable going 35-40 mph. In comparison, Bowdoin is about 5%. In addition, at the top of
Main there is a downhill and then additional elevation.
Councilmember Distelhorst inquired about the design and outreach, whether it would include talking to
neighbors and developing a design that incorporated their feedback. Mr. Williams answered staffs initial
thought was to have a public meeting somewhere early in design, maybe at 10% when there are 2D
sketches of the alternatives to vet those and present them to Council as well. The design process would
then continue, doing as much as possible to be responsive to the comments. The intent would be to talk to
the public early on and at least one other time during the design until a concept is developed and then the
design becomes a more detailed process where finite details are worked out.
With regard to why these corridors, Mr. Williams agreed these were the most direct routes and are
significant transportation corridors where space for a significant transportation asset could be carved out.
Bikes are not excluded from those roadways now, but there is a point at which the average daily volumes
get so high that bicyclists are not comfortable. These streets are not in that category and could
accommodate bike lanes nicely. It would be great if it was affordable to put a protected bike lane on SR-
104, but those funds are not available and likely could not be acquired.
Councilmember Distelhorst commented sometimes the terms road diet and traffic calming can be abstract
and residents have expressed concern with speeding. He asked staff to describe in laymen's terms how
channelization and segmentation improvements improve safety for all road users. Mr. Williams said
anything that a motorist sees in front of them whether it is a bicyclist, another car, pedestrians, narrowed
lanes, a bike lane, markings on the road such as the sharrow markers, etc. will tend to slow cars down. It
is an important aspect of how transportation engineers think. A road diet, particularly south of SR-104
with a center turn lane, will calm traffic speeds. The exact answer on 9"' between Walnut and the
cemetery is unknown, whether there will be a center turn lane, will be determined in design and sussed
out with the community. The solution could be two bike lanes and two travel lanes similar to 220"', a very
well used corridor. The center turn lane is not required, but it adds some nice features. It will be difficult
with the amount of space in 44 feet to get two travel lanes of normal size, one lane of parking and two
bike lanes, it does not quite fit. Mr. Hauss said the width on Bowdoin is 40 feet curb to curb with 20 foo
wide travel lanes; striping will reduce speeds on that stretch.
To understand the process that City staff went through, Councilmember Distelhorst asked whether Sound
Transit gave the money to the City and said build bike lanes or was it a competitive grant that staff
secured for the City. Mr. Hauss answered the City secured the grant via a competitive process with other
agencies in Snohomish County that have Sound Transit stations within their city or in proximity. Mr.
Williams said the City submitted three different concepts and this one was successful.
Councilmember L. Johnson appreciated the explanation of how marking can increase parking efficiency
by 20%. She reiterated her support of road diets; having taught teen drivers recently and recognizing the
benefit of a center turn lane to increase safety. She recognized with COVID, there are more people out
biking and she hoped with the addition of e-bikes that adding bike lanes and improving safety will
encourage biking. That is especially significant in view of the item later on the agenda regarding updates
to the Climate Action Plan.
Councilmember Olson thanked staff for listening to the concerns and adding crosswalks to the plan as
well as tick marks to pick up some of the lost parking. She lives off 9th and parking is always on her mind
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 13
so she understood citizens' concerns. The community needs to be concerned about parking because
people attend the City's numerous events because they can park easily. She was comforted that staff was
thinking through those things, but she had not had the time as a Councilmember to have that
communication with each citizen. There was an overwhelming amount of feedback from citizens and
although she did not support waiting to proceed until a normal public hearing could be held, it was
reasonable for the Council to take the time to consider the public's input. One of the days, the Council
was bombarded with 100 emails. She has been able to keep up with the emails from previous days as well
as some of the 100 but she has not been able to communicate with all those citizens and give them the
opportunity to convince her otherwise, something that she felt she owed them. She asked for another
week or two to vet all the citizen input and hoped other Councilmembers would do the same.
COuncilmember Olson asked whether the City was in jeopardy of losing the money if the Council took
another week or two to vet this. Mr. Williams answered no, they money must be spent by 2024 so a week
or two is not critical. He appreciated the Council allowing the Council Assistant to collate all the emails
the Council received and providing staff a copy. He read all 41 pages as have Mr. English and Mr. HatlSs.
There was a lot of good commentary about issues people foresee with a project like this although
unfortunately, some of it was based on misinformation. Additional meetings with residents early in design
could further flesh out concerns and how they could be addressed. He recognized some of the issues can
be addressed, some cannot; there is likely not a project that would have unanimous support especially
from people who live on those streets. There has not been much commentary from residents in other areas
of the City and he was confident many residents who do not live on 9"', 100' or Bowdoin or 228' would
be interested in bike lanes.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she has read everything, the comments are not favorable for the bike
lanes on 100t" Street SW/9` Avenue from Walnut to 2441h and Bowdoin, 2 of the 4. She was not anti -bike
lanes and as Mr. Morgan said, many people support bike lanes. She agreed 9"' Avenue and Bowdoin were
the quickest routes but questioned whether they were the right routes. A majority of the residents who
received the letter and live on those routes were not in favor of it. She asked how and who selected these
routes and whether a portion of this could be approved and a more thorough open house held on that one
section. Mr. Williams responded there are a lot of fine grain details in the emails that are particularly to 1-
2 addresses; when the design reaches the point of where to start and stop parking on one side of the street,
having contact with individual residents could be worked into the process. If close to half of the parking is
eliminated, it will be seen as a loss by some, but there are gains to be realized by the City at large.
Bicycling is already slow, cyclists are doing something positive by getting out of their cars, reducing
emissions, getting exercise, and staying healthy; he questions whether they should be punished by
pushing them onto side streets where they are not seen and their trip will take longer. That doesn't seem
quite right if there is room for bike lanes and enough parking can be retained. If only 5-10% of the
parking is used in non-COVID years, if half the spaces are eliminated, only 20% of the parking available
on the street is being used, which leaves 4 out of 5 parking spaces unused.
Councilmember Buckshnis said it was not all about parking. She did not like Mr. Williams' opinion about
pushing bikes to some other street. She provided the example of Portland, Oregon, where they spent two
years doing an extensive bike lane process and they chose a residential area to move the bikers through
which was slower but safer. She referred to the statement that bike lanes provide -a buffer between cars
and pedestrians, noting she was just trying to ensure this is vetted correctly. In her opinion there was not
enough information to determine that this was the best route for citizens and bicycles. She questioned if a
vehicle count had been done to determine the number of cars traveling on 9"', commenting when she
drives it at 5:00 it is backed up. A variety of things have been brought up that are unrelated to parking.
She was interested in a better understanding of the alternates and why they did not work; sometimes a
better route is a safer route. Westgate is a dangerous intersection, 9"' Avenue is always busy, and Yost is
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 14
always busy when the pool is open. She suggested approving this but not approving those two areas until
there was a better vetting of potential alternatives.
Mr. Williams responded the other side streets are even narrower and a lot of them do not have sidewalks
so there would not be a dedicated bike lane, only painted sharrows. Westgate is a huge designation and
bikes cannot reach it via 96th or 95th because bikes cannot effectively travel east -west on SR-104 so the
only way to reach Westgate is 100"' and 9"'. It is the right route, but the details of how to make it work for
everyone needs to be worked through. Councilmember Buckshnis said 7th and 8th are very large streets;
she preferred the Council had other alternatives to consider in making an informed decision. She agreed
bike lanes are needed and bicycling supports climate change but everyone needs to be conscious of safety
and that there is major traffic coming in/out of Edmonds. When driving neighbor at 5:00, it takes her 15
minutes to reach a place 4 minutes from her house. Mr. Williams said the traffic count on 9th north of SR-
104 peak is about 5,000/day and 500 during the PM peak hours. The road diet on 76t" turned out very well
and the traffic volume there is 11,000 vehicles/day. He understood it was a balance between modes of
travel, but is not a traffic issue but figuring out how to prioritize various users within the curb lines.
Councilmember Buckshnis recalled Ms. Dotsch's comments about 76"' and turning toward Perrinville
where the bike lanes ends because Lynnwood installed a turn lane. She favoring having a more robust
discussion with citizens in determining whether this is the accurate route.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said she lives off 76"' where the traffic volume is 10,000 cars/day. She
recalled there was a lot of pushback when the bike lanes were installed on 76"', including from her, due to
concern there would not be enough space and it would be too dangerous. There are only bike lanes on one
side of 76"' for most of way, and two for the last 3-4 blocks before Highway 99 which has worked out just
fine. She commented this is the third time this has been on agenda; the Council approved the bike lane
route 2-3 years ago so she was comfortable moving ahead. The Council has been told they will have input
on the design and moving forward. She referred to multiple letters from the Sierra Club regarding bike
lanes and how much better bikes are for transit. She has begun biking herself recently and learned that
safety is the top priority for the biking community.
Council President Fraley-Monillas expressed concern with the misinformation that was distributed door
to door on 9t' Avenue. The letter encourages residents to get involved, because if no residents speak up,
the City's goal is likely no parking will remain on 9"' Avenue. She noted that was not accurate; one side
of the street for most of the stretch will have parking. Someone dropping off scary letters to the residents
on 9"' Avenue was inappropriate. She acknowledged there wasn't parking on both sides on 76"', but there
is parking on one side. She received multiple emails, one from a citizen complaining they will not have
anywhere to park their eight vehicles. The roads belong to the City, not to individual citizens. The City's
codes state homes have to have a certain amount of parking on site.
With regard to this being a dangerous areas, Council President Fraley-Monillas said she understood there
was a lot of traffic at Westgate but there is more traffic on 76th and 205"' where there are bike lanes.
When leaving her neighborhood, sometimes cars are backed up 2-3 blocks from 205"' trying to get
through the light. The bike lanes on 76"' are constantly used in both directions. She encouraged the
Council to pass this tonight and to continue to stay involved in the design to ensure the design on 100"'
and 9"' Avenue is done in a way that protects citizens and bikes. She recalled a cyclist who called her to
describe riding on 9th and someone opening a car door caused them bike to swerve into traffic.
Councilmember Olson referred to a comment she received expressing concern with adding traffic at the
Yost Park intersection, people come from out of town do not recognize it as an actual intersection,
making it inherently dangerous. She asked if the proposed project would improve the safety of that
intersection or would City funds be necessary, noting the intersection will only become less safe by
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 15
adding more cyclists. Mr. Williams said staff could commit to looking at that intersection. He did not
realize there were issues with confusion; perhaps better signage/markings could be installed to better
identify the intersection. Anything more elaborate that changes curb lines or puts in physical
improvements would cost money and that is not in the grant. Mr. Hauss said there were comments about
vegetation obscuring the stop signs which have been addressed. To address a concern with the curve
before the stop sign westbound, an advisory "stop sign ahead" sign was added recently. Additional
evaluation of that intersection could be done during the design phase.
With regard to the flyer that was distributed, Councilmember Olson said the misinformation that all the
parking would be removed was a problem because it was not true and 50% was big difference between
none. She recalled Mr. Williams mentioned zigzagging areas of parking so it is better for residents on
both sides instead of having it all on one side or the other. She thanked the person who distributed the
flyer because although it contained misinformation, it provided a great service and she hoped the City
would do something similar in the future with accurate information to bring people to the table. She
offered to personally distribute flyers along with other volunteers and other Councilmembers. She
requested one more week to be able to talk to everyone who contacted her instead of voting tonight.
Councilmember Paine said the discussion with Council, comments from the community, testimony,
phone calls and emails have been very helpful. Last year she spent a lot of time on 9"' doorbelling and she
used to live on 14"' Street SW off 100"' so she is very familiar with the neighborhood's concerns with
traffic, parking and bicycles. One person voiced tremendous concern about the speed of traffic
particularly at the intersection of 9th & Walnut and into downtown. Having bike lanes and raising
visibility for other modes of transportation will help the biking and pedestrian community. There have
been some very visible, tragic pedestrian incidents including a couple deaths in these neighborhoods in
recent years. She was gratified to hear staff plans to go out to the community; if the Housing Commission
can hold a community open house, a targeted bike lane discussion can occur. Parking versus bikes will
always be a major discussion point, but the roads belong to the City and the rights -of -way need to be
managed for all users. Complete Streets describes sharing the streets and Edmonds adopted Complete
Streets 15-20 years ago. She concluded adding bikes to the mix will help drivers slow down and
recognize that others are using the street. The main thoroughfare between 100th from Firdale and from
SR-104 to Walnut and up Bowdoin as well as on 8"' Avenue can be racetrack. She appreciated the
information, feedback and information she has received on this topic.
Councilmember K. Johnson thanked Mr. Hauss for applying for the $1.85 million grant, an opportunity to
implement the bicycle element of the Transportation Plan adopted by the City Council. She was heartened
that the Council had heard from over 100 people; they seem to be in two groups, 1) residents who live
adjacent to the proposed bike lanes who are concerned about parking, and 2) citizens who are bike riders
and would love to see more safe access. There are basically three levels of bike facilities, 1) protected like
the Burke Gilman or the Interurban Trail, 2) a bicycle lane, and 3) riding with traffic. Bicycle lanes where
there are wide streets make sense. She lives off Bowdoin Way and has ridden her bike there; the 5% grade
is doable, but she would not want to ride up Main Street.
Councilmember K. Johnson said the roadway is a public asset, it belongs to the City and is wide enough
to accommodate bike lanes and perhaps some parking. There is no expectation that private parking is a
right for an adjacent landowners. If the roadway design is changed, residents' parking needs will have to
be accommodated elsewhere. The comments have revealed there are some hot spots including 5 Corners,
Westgate, and Yost Park, areas that can be looked at in greater detail. This contract allows $350,000 for
design and up to $500,000. The Council is not being asked to design the bike lanes or to eliminate all the
parking. This provides a year to design and study it in greater detail; a process that has a great start due to
the 100 people who have contacted the City.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 16
Councilmember K. Johnson pointed out that although Sound Transit is providing $1.85 million, it will be
a City project. The City will oversee the design and decide what public involvement is appropriate and
can bring it back to City Council for final approval. She supported the project, having long felt there was
excess capacity and an opportunity to build bike lanes in this area. The Council needs to be responsive to
citizens, but this isn't the last step; this is only the beginning. She was willing to give Councilmembers
extra time if they needed it to be comfortable, but she was ready to approve the funding agreement
tonight.
Councilmember Distelhorst suggested Mayor Nelson be provided an opportunity to comment.
Councilmember K. Johnson raised a point of order, the Mayor must ask permission from the entire
Council in order to speak; it is not something an individual Councilmember can request.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
DISTELHORST, TO ALLOW MAYOR NELSON TO SPEAK ON THIS ISSUE.
Councilmember Buckshnis raised a point of order, asking if the Council could finish their discussion first.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said Mayor Nelson is part of the discussion and every Councilmember
has already spoken.
MOTION CARRIED (5-2), COUNCILMEMBERS K. JOHNSON AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO.
Mayor Nelson expressed support for staff's proposal and for bike lanes in the City, agreeing that
community involvement throughout the process is helpful. Unfortunately in this instance the community
outreach was not done by the City first in a way that reached the people who feel they are the most
impacted. Moving forward, it will be important to reach out to everyone who is impacted, understanding
it is not just the people who live there or the people who bike through there, it is a citywide benefit. Staff
has done an outstanding job of applying for and obtaining the grant and have been very clear that they
will seek input on the design from the public which will undoubtedly influence the design. This is not the
end but the beginning of the bike lane project.
Councilmember Buckshnis said the bike lanes have not been vetted by the public other than the flyer and
the emails that the Council received. The City has $350,000 for design; there are 4 stretches the City has
identified. She believed the citizens and the City should be allowed to have open communication to
determine alternates for 100' and the Westgate area. On average, one out of ten emails supported the bike
lanes; she supports bike lanes but did not feel the four choices staff suggested had been vetted. She will
approve the project if the two stretches can be removed and alternatives proposed. She summarized there
had not been adequate interaction with citizens on the Westgate section, 100t" & SR-104, 9t" Avenue, and
Walnut & Bowdoin. She reiterated she supported bike lanes.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
PAINE, TO AUTHORIZE MAYOR TO SIGN THE SYSTEMS ACCESS PROJECT AGREEMENT
INCLUDING HAVING OPEN HOUSES FOR DESIGN.
Councilmember Olson said she will abstain if the Council votes tonight. She requested the Council move
the vote to the next Council meeting so she can participate in the vote.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said this has been discussed at three meetings and Councilmembers
have had an opportunity to reach out to those who have contacted them. She was not interested a further
delay.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER OLSON, TO
AMEND TO REMOVE THE BIKE LANE STRETCH FROM 100T" STREET SOUTHWEST/9T"
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 17
AVENUE SOUTH FROM WALNUT STREET TO 244TH STREET SOUTHWEST, TO BE
REVIEWED FOR ANOTHER ALTERNATE.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she has read all the comments the Council received and has had multiple
discussions with people. It would be advantageous in a public process just like Marina Beach Park to
engage citizens before selecting the routes.
Council President Fraley-Monillas encouraged Councilmembers not to support this amendment because
there will be further discussion regarding the design. She was not interested in citizens having a say about
the design of one stretch; citizens should have input into the design of all the stretches of the bike lanes.
Councilmember Paine supported having an abundance of discussion during the design phase at 10% as
Mr. Williams stated and also at 30% design to look at parking and the bike lane design. She encouraged
maximum safety in all the designs which includes the most direct routes, but she would leave it to
professional engineers who put this together.
AMENDMENT FAILED (1-6), COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS VOTING YES.
Councilmember Olson said she did not have time to vet all the comments although she is working
diligently on it and would like to postpone the vote until August 11 "' She wanted an opportunity for
citizens to convince her that she was wrong or she would vote her gut feeling that this was a positive, but
she wanted to hear everyone.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON, TO
POSTPONE THE VOTE TO AUGUST 11TH
Council President Fraley-Monillas reiterated the Council has had three weeks to consider this in addition
to the year or two since it was approved. She encouraged the Council to move forward, emphasizing there
will be an opportunity to have a say in the design as the project moves forward.
Councilmember Olson pointed out the Council was committing to the routes based on this vote. It is
relevant to hear and communicate with citizens who are concerned these are not the right routes. She said
the first time this was on the Council agenda, the Council did not have the citizen input.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she will support any Councilmember who needs more time. This has
been on the agenda for a long time and everyone supports bike lanes. The Council has received about 150
emails over the last two days and it takes a lot of time to review them. She responded to 95 emails over
the weekend and has since received more emails. She has listened to what the public wants which is more
public involvement.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said discussion at three meetings was enough for her. She was
interested in the design which will identify any issues on the routes. She encouraged Councilmembers not
to support the amendment.
Councilmember Distelhorst agreed it had not been easy, he has replied to every email and tried to have
that engagement. He has also offered to meet in person with people on Bowdoin and 9th who have had
concerns but so far no one wants to meet in person. He was confident that staff will be able to engage
with the public during the design phase. He was unaware of any new information that would come out in
the next seven days.
Councilmember K. Johnson said she was prepared to vote tonight, but if a Councilmember requests more
time, she is happy to give it. This item can always be put on the Consent Agenda next week.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 18
Council President Fraley-Monillas appreciated Councilmember K. Johnson's thoughts but not want to
discuss it a fourth time in four weeks.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON AMENDED HER AMENDMENT, SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON, TO PUT IT ON THE CONSENT AGENDA NEXT WEEK
INSTEAD OF VOTING TONIGHT.
Councilmember Paine said next week is committee meetings, therefore there would need to be a special
meeting. Councilmember Olson commented that has been done the last two months and asked if there
was a reason it could not be done next week.
Council President Fraley-Monillas commented the Council is not getting a lot of work done because
Councilmembers keep bringing stuff back. Three weeks to discuss this is plenty of time and putting it on
Consent next week will not change anything; there will not be any more information, it will just allow one
Councilmember the opportunity to contact people which other Councilmembers have already done. She
did not contact everyone, but contacted as many as she could. She was willing to move forward and use
the opportunity during the design phase for citizens to provide input.
Councilmember Olson pointed out she did not know what new information might come from the
conversations and that is the whole point of having them.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS CALLED THE QUESTION. THE VOTE ON THE CALL FOR
THE QUESTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Olson restated the motion:
TO PUT THIS ON THE CONSENT AGENDA FOR THE AUGUST 111" MEETING INSTEAD OF
VOTING TONIGHT
AMENDMENT FAILED (3-4) COUNCILMEMBERS OLSON, BUCKSHNIS AND K. JOHNSON
VOTING YES.
Council President Fraley-Monillas restated the main motion:
TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE SYSTEMS ACCESS PROJECT AGREEMENT
WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT WE'RE GOING TO HAVE CITIZEN INPUT IN THE
DESIGN.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (5-0-2), COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS
AND COUNCILMEMBERS K. JOHNSON, DISTELHORST, PAINE AND L. JOHNSON VOTING
YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS BUCKSHNIS AND OLSON ABSTAINING.
Councilmember Olson raised a point of order, whether Councilmembers were supposed to state their
reason for abstaining. Mayor Nelson said they were not.
3. PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ECC 2.10.010 FOR COUNCIL REVIEW OF
APPOINTIVE POSITIONS
HR Director Jessica Neill Hoyson advised this is continued discussion of a proposed code amendment
that allow an exception to the three candidate pool and allows the Mayor to request Council approve his
bringing forward a single candidate for appointment. During the last presentation, there was a lack of
clarity regarding the difference between the two amendments.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 19
In 8.3.b (packet page 232), Section D of this code amendment provides an additional exception to the
three candidate rule that is currently in code and would allow the Mayor to request approval to move
forward one candidate for confirmation by the Council, which requires passage by a super majority. The
other proposed code amendment, 8.3.a (packet page 227) Section F also addresses some conflicting
language between the expectation that recruiting begin 30 days after there is a vacancy. Section F
provides if the Mayor has put in place an acting director for that vacancy, the expectation is not that
recruiting would begin within 30 days. By the fourth month of that acting directorship, the Mayor would
either need to request the exception of Council or begin recruiting. If Council approves the amendment to
allow for the additional exception, it would not make sense to begin recruiting in 30 days if the Mayor is
taking the opportunity to evaluate that candidate.
Ms. Neill Hoyson highlighted another small change in Section B (packet page 228) that addresses the
question of the continuance of an acting appointment. The code language indicates when an acting
appointment lapses, the position is considered to be vacant. The Mayor then has the authority to appoint
to a vacant position without Council confirmation. The amendment in this section makes it clear that the
intent is any subsequent appointments to an acting directorship would require Council approval even if
there had been a lapse and the position was now called a vacant position.
Ms. Neill Hoyson explained after last week's discussion, some Councilmembers expressed concern with
the permanent feeling of code changes to address the current recruiting issues with an acting director and
moving the police chief position forward and whether that could be accomplished in a less permanent
way. Mr. Taraday and she discussed that today and unfortunately the only way to accomplish it is through
a code change, but Council could choose to put a sunset on that change in the code to clearly recognize
that part of the issue is related to the current environment where recruitment for a position may not elicit a
pool of candidates given there may be less mobility of candidates during a pandemic. A sunset date would
tie the code change to the current conditions and that the code section would sunset in a certain time
period -
City Attorney Jeff Taraday said the title of the ordinance was also amended to add "for a limited period of
time" based on 8.3.b but the same change could be made to either of the two versions in the packet. A
new whereas clause was also added that reads, "Whereas, such an exception is especially appropriate
now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, because the administration anticipates that the pandemic would
make it difficult to recruit a sufficient number of qualified candidates." The new sunset provision
described by Ms. Neill Hoyson would be inserted as Section 2, "Sunset Provision. This ordinance shall be
in effect for one year from the effective date described herein. On the one year anniversary of the
effective date it shall cease to have effect." The remaining sections would be renumbered.
Councilmember Olson said she liked the idea of a sunset clause and was interested in adding that. She
suggested those who made amendments last week may want to redo them if the Council plans to proceed
with one of the options.
Councilmember Buckshnis relayed a lot of citizens have contacted her regarding this. She is confused and
asked whether the recruiting process had started, recalling Ms. Neill Hoyson and the consultant made a
presentation to Council in January. Ms. Neill Hoyson answered recruiting is a very broad term in HR; to a
lot of people that means posting a job, but a lot of work occurs prior to posting a position. That was the
work that had been conducted with the consultant; analysis of the current job description, analysis of the
current department challenges, creating a candidate profile, and establishing a marketing plan and
materials. The position was very close to being posted when the pandemic broke out and the question
arose whether it was reasonable to expect if the City began searching for candidates that a viable pool of
candidates would apply given what was going on.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 20
Councilmember Buckshnis asked Ms. Neill Hoyson if she was told in March not to do anything because
under the governor's OPMA provisions searching for a police chief was not routine and necessary, or did
recruiting just stop. Ms. Neill Hoyson said recruiting was paused and the consultant informed. The
consultant agreed it was not a good time to move forward. During that subsequent 30 day time period, the
consultant paused the process and discussions began about appointing a single candidate, Jim Lawless, as
the chief. At that point, Mr. Taraday determined discussion about changing the code to allow for an
exception for a single candidate did not fit the parameters of what was allowed for legislative bodies to
discuss during that time period.
Mr. Taraday said he still maintains that an amendment of this type did not meet the attorney general's
guidance regarding what was necessary and routine under the governor's order. Councilmember
Buckshnis pointed out that ended in May and she questioned why the Council was discussing this in
August and whether it had taken so long was due to COVID. Ms. Neill Hoyson answered COVID was
certainly the reason for pausing the recruitment and the cause of the OPMA restrictions and legal
counsel's direction that discussion regarding the code changes could not occur during that time period.
Once the OPMA restrictions were lifted, there were discussions with the Mayor about how he wanted to
move forward and once that was finalized, it was brought to Council. This is the third week Council has
discussed this so it was added to agenda about 4-5 weeks ago which is only a 3 week gap.
Councilmember Paine asked for clarification, that the sunset language would remove all the amendments
from the code that have been in existence since 2015. Mr. Taraday answered the sunset clause would only
erase the amendments that the Council is about to make. Whatever the final version of the ordinance
looks like after the Council snakes any amendments, if that final version also includes a sunset clause, it
just means that version of the ordinance including all of tonight's amendments would go away a year after
the effective date and the code would essentially revert back to the way it reads today.
Councilmember K. Johnson asked who is responsible for enforcing the code, whether it was the HR
director, the mayor or the attorney. Mr. Taraday said he does not have enforcement authority and he not
sure what Councilmember K. Johnson mean by enforcement authority. Councilmember K. Johnson said
the code the Council is being asked to change states the mayor shall begin recruitment of candidates to fill
vacant appointive offices no later than 30 days after the latter of two City Council actions described in
subsection A and C of this section, provided..." which she felt was unclear. She was trying to figure out
who was supposed to do the recruitment and the appointment for this position. Her reading of the code
indicates it should have been done within the first 30 days prior to COVID. She asked who was
responsible for ensuring the code is in fact followed.
Mr. Taraday said he did not have all the facts related to the dates at his disposal. Councilmember K.
Johnson pointed out this is August so it was not done during the first 30 days. Mr. Taraday said in his
conversation with Ms. Neill Hoyson, she and Mayor Nelson commenced recruitment early in 2020. He
did not know the exact dates but he was uncertain there was a delay in the initial recruitment. Ms. Neill
Hoyson said there was no delay, recruitment began in January. As stated earlier, recruiting is a very broad
term in the HR lexicon, a lot occurs prior to a position being posted. In the case of the police chief
vacancy, it begin with discussions with Mayor Nelson regarding the best way to approach this
recruitment, whether it should be done in-house or utilize a recruiting consultant. Once that decision was
made, work had to be done to develop proposals and to retain a consultant. That all began in January so
recruitment did begin within 30 days of the vacancy.
Councilmember L. Johnson said similar to last week, for her it was about policy, procedure and
legislative oversight. The Council is making changes to accommodate one position. Unfortunately, this
has been allowed to become very personal and that is not how the Council should be legislating. She
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 21
supported moving forward with the process and allow candidates to come forward and be duly appointed
and confirmed following the processes and procedures.
Councilmember K. Johnson said normally she would agree the Council should follow procedures and
code without question. However, the City is in a situation where there has been an acting police chief for
eight months which she found very unfair. She was of two minds, 1) she was very supportive of Acting
Police Chief Lawless, and 2) felt the City needed to follow procedures. Lynnwood's code, which she sent
to everyone and asked Mr. Taraday to review, includes an opportunity for the Council to modify the
number of applicants based on justification that is acceptable to the Council. Additionally, the final results
of the background checks are done prior to Council confirmation, all appointed employees are subject to
Council confirmation, and a review of documents submitted is allowed Council consideration. She
summarized Edmonds' code is obtuse, convoluted, and making a change now makes it worse even if a
sunset clause is added. Edmonds' code is three pages and Lynnwood's code is only one page.
COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER OLSON, TO
CONSIDER STREAMLINING THE PROPOSAL SUBJECT TO COUNCIL REVIEW OF THE
LYNNWOOD PROPOSAL AND THE THIRD PROPOSAL THAT OUR ATTORNEY HAS
PRESENTED.
Councilmember K. Johnson restated motion:
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CONSIDER A THIRD ALTERNATIVE WHICH WAS DRAFTED
BY OUR CITY ATTORNEY THAT INCORPORATES A MUCH MORE STREAMLINED
EXAMPLE BASED ON THE CITY OF LYNNWOOD'S APPOINTIVE PROCESS.
Councilmember Olson said she liked the simplicity of Lynnwood's code. [The remainder of
Councilmember Olson's comments were not recorded due to a technical difficulty.]
wunc.11meiwci r a:ne saiu she had an opportunity to review Lynnwood's code and had concerns about
the way Lynnwood does things. She was not looking at their code with an eye toward adopting it but to
compare and contrast. She is still left with ultimately feeling like this not something that needs to be
resolved today and not something the Council asked for. She was hopeful the administration could
develop a solution that did not include a code change. It was frustrating to be put in this position,
swapping horses midstream. Although everyone is well intentioned, she was hopeful there was a simpler
solution and when the appointive hires are completed, she would welcome having this code change come
through the normal process such as the personnel committee and to consider better options. She hoped
there could be an agreeable solution that did not include an ordinance change. She liked how Lynnwood's
code was written as it was a lot clearer, but she did not like everything about it.
Councilmember Olson said in effect the sunset clause does what Councilmember Paine said she wants to
see.
Councilmember Paine raised a point of order, stating she objected to having her words used and that was
not what she meant. Mayor Nelson ruled point taken. Councilmember Olson said in her judgment the
proposed sunset clause gives the Council the ability to use it in this circumstance without permanently
altering the code and provides an opportunity to alter the code later. She was in favor of the sunset clause
and whatever code the Council ended up choosing. She was hopeful the Council would approve a
modification to the code tonight.
Council President Fraley-Monillas commented there are two issues that are being intermixed, 1) the
mayor's wish to appoint Mr. Lawless to the permanent position, and 2) to change the code to reflect
bringing less than three candidates to Council for confirmation. She was opposed to taking away the
Council's authority for whatever reason when it comes to an appointment of a director regardless of the
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 22
position. She understood the purpose of the sunset clause, but she felt creating a clause due to COVID
was a mistake. She has contacted other cities such as Everett and Tukwila who are hiring director level
positions and they are still able to get three candidates to interview due to the loosening of the OPMA
restrictions by the governor. She preferred the policy not be changed because she was not willing to
release the Council's authority to make an ordinance change based on an emotional response to hiring
someone or based on a pandemic when several names can move forward. She recommended retaining the
existing policy and perhaps amending it later to be clearer. She supported moving forward with the Mayor
bringing forth names, having no doubt he would be able to present three names and if Chief Lawless was
the best, she was all for it. She concluded changing things at this point due to COVID when other cities
are able to hire was concerning to her.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked Ms. Neill Hoyson about next steps. For her, it was not an emotional
response; for some reason someone dropped the ball and what has happened to Mr. Lawless was an
embarrassment to City. Ms. Neill Hoyson said after the last Council meeting when no changes to code
passed, she moved forward as if the current code were in place and she sent the Mayor an outline of the
proposed process for recruiting for the police chief. If no changes are made today, she will continue with
that process. Councilmember Buckshnis asked about the timeframe. Ms. Neill Hoyson said she could not
provide a specific timeframe tonight. Given the legwork that has been done, it is potentially a 2-3 month
time period for having final candidates.
Councilmember K. Johnson commented the Council is definitely not discussing her motion. She restated
the motion:
THAT THE COUNCIL CONSIDER A THIRD PROPOSAL THAT WAS DRAFTED BY OUR
ATTORNEY TO CONSIDER A MORE STREAMLINED PROCESS THAT WOULD
INCORPORATE ALL OF OUR CONCERNS AND IT'S BASED ON THE CITY OF LYNNWOOD.
Councilmember Distelhorst questioned what "consider" meant, whether it inean to consider voting
tonight, whether to consider looking at it long term, etc. Councilmember K. Johnson said because it is a
third alternative, she was asking that the Council not vote on it tonight but look at it next week.
Councilmember Buckshnis said she did not support this as she believes the Council should move forward
and get it going because Chief Lawless has done a stellar job, she is not emotional and the Council just
needs to march forward although she knew how the votes would go.
Council President Fraley-Monillas agreed with Councilmember Buckshnis although she did not know
how the votes would go. She agreed with continuing to move forward. She thanked Ms. Neill Hoyson for
the work she has done on this.
Councilmember Olson said she has had time to look at Lynnwood's code, and felt it was better than the
City's existing code and was a code she wanted the City to have long term. She supported voting on this
option and pursuing Lynnwood's code next week.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (2-5), COUNCILMEMBERS K. JOHNSON AND OLSON
VOTING YES; AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS AND COUNCILMEMBERS
DISTELHORST, BUCKSHNIS, PAINE AND L. JOHNSON VOTING NO.
Councilmember Olson suggested passing one of the two remaining ordinances in the packet on this
subject, ordinance 8.3.b, and after that vote, have debate and a conversation about which one if it passes.
COUNCILMEMBER OLSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO
VOTE TO PASS ORDINANCE 8.3.B.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 23
Council President Fraley-Monillas encouraged Councilmembers to vote no. She preferred to get three
candidates and did not think the City's codes or policies regarding the hiring of a very important position
should be changed due to COVID.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION FAILED (3-4), COUNCILMEMBERS BUCKSHNIS, K.
JOHNSON, AND OLSON VOTING YES; AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS
AND COUNCILMEMBERS DISTELHORST, PAINE AND L. JOHNSON VOTING NO.
COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS, THAT THE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE TAKE UP THE REVISION OF THE
CITY CODE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
COuncilmember Buckshnis agreed with Councilmember K. Johnson, but did not know if it was
appropriate right now as there were a lot of codes that needed to be updated.
Council President Fraley-Monillas agreed with Councilmember Buckshnis that now is not the time. If the
Council could hold separate meetings, she questions why committee meetings were not being held. It may
be reasonable if the Council can return to committee meetings for all three committees. Mr. Taraday said
there is nothing preventing the Council from having regular committee meetings. Council President
Fraley-Monillas said if the Council is willing and ready to return to three committee meetings, she had no
problem with Councilmember K. Johnson's motion. Otherwise, the process itself could be dealt with once
the COVID issue is over.
Councilmember K. Johnson commented the Council has been meeting as a committee of the whole which
includes all three committees. That meeting should not be populated with only Public Works items but
items that also generally come to Finance and Personnel Committee. She was not saying it needed to be
on the agenda next week, but it was an issue that deserved to be cleaned up because it has been a real
mess.
Councilmember Distelhorst appreciated Councilmember K. Johnson's approach, commenting it feels like
a fog has conflated the code with a personnel decision and it would be appropriate to keep the policy issue
separate from the personnel issue. Councilmember K. Johnson's approach would give him a clear head to
separate those issues and think about them independently.
Councilmember Buckshnis was not in favor of holding individual committee meetings during COVID
and via Zoom due to the logistics. Many people are watching and they enjoy the committee of the whole.
She disagreed with Mr. Taraday that although it may be okay, logically it would be very difficult.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
L. JOHNSON, TO EXTEND THE MEETING TO ADDRESS ONE ITEM UNTIL 10:20 P.M.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said the Council code of Conduct will need to be postponed to a future
meeting and the presentation regarding the Climate Goals Project should occur as there are people waiting
to speak _on -that. _
MOTION CARRIED (6-0-1), COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON ABSTAINING.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said if the Personnel Committee plans to meet, she encouraged the
Council to meet in separate committees. Councilmember Buckshnis raised a point of order, there is a
consultant waiting to make the presentation on Climate Goals Project. Council President Fraley-Monillas
said there is a motion on the floor so discussion about the Personnel Committee was proper. Mayor
Nelson agreed.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 24
Council President Fraley-Monillas said if the Council plans to hold a Personnel Committee meeting, the
Council needs to hold meetings for all three committees. If the Council approves Councilmember K.
Johnson's motion, she will support holding meetings for all three committees.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
L. JOHNSON, TO AMEND THE MOTION BASED ON THE ABOVE COMMENT.
Council President Fraley-Monillas restated the amendment:
IF WE'RE GOING TO BREAK INTO THE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE MEETING, THERE IS
NO REASON WHY WE CAN'T HAVE FINANCE AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEES MEET
INDEPENDENTLY. WE HAVE FIGURED OUT A WAY TO DO IT SO THEY'RE ALL THREE
ON ZOOM.
Councilmember K. Johnson said that was never her intent. The Council is meeting as a committee of the
whole and that is how the Council decided it wants to proceed. Her intent was this was an appropriate
topic for the committee of the whole on a future agenda.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS WITHDREW THE AMENDMENT.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
9. STUDY ITEMS
UPDATE ON CLIMATE GOALS PROJECT
Development Services Director Shane Hope introduced Environmental Program Manager Kernen Lien
and Mark Johnson, PSA. She said sustainability and protecting the climate is a priority for Council and
many members of community.
Mark Johnson, PSA, reviewed:
• Inventory Results
o Local Emissions (305,962 MT CO2e 7.2 MT CO2e per capita
■ Transportation 40%
■ Buildings (residential) 35%
Buildings (commercial) 15%
■ Buildings (industrial) 2%
• Refrigerant Loss 6%
■ Waste 2%
o Graph of Local emissions + household consumption -related emissions (imported)
■ Emissions from the production of imported food, goods, and energy consumed by the
Edmonds community are larger than sources of local emissions
■ Strategies and Policy Gaps
o Reviewed City planning and policy documents
o Found over 300 measures that pertain to climate action
o Recommended 6 new measures under existing categories (Transportation, Land Use, and
Buildings)
o Added a new category —Wastewater with 4 measures recommended
■ 10 Strategies to Track
CAP
Strategy
Metric
TR-1
Additional Units in Commercial and Multi -Family Centers by 2035 and 2050
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 25
Number of housing units built in activity centers
TR-2
Percent of Commuters Using Transit by 2035 and 2050
Percentage of commuters using public transportation (avoided VMT
TR-3
Percent of Commuters Walking or Biking to Work by 2035 and 2050
Percentage of commuters usin an active mode of transportation avoided VMT .
TR-4
Percent of Commuters Carpooling and/or Utilizing an Alternate Work Week by
2035 and 2050
Percentage of commuters carpooling, telecommuting, and/or working shorter weeks
and longer hours avoided VMT .
TR-5
Percent of Electric Vehicles by 2035 and 2050
Percentage of Citywide fleet that is BEV and PHEV avoided VMT).
W-1
Reduction in Solid Waste Generation by 2035 and 2050
Change in amount of solid waste generated per capita as com ared to 2017 levels
EY-1
Number of New Residential and Commercial Solar PV Systems Installed by 2035
and 2050
Number of homes and businesses that installed solar PV since 2017
EY-2
Percent of Residential and Commercial Area Retrofitted by 2035 and 2050
The total residential and commercial area (in square feet) that is upgraded with energy
efficiency programs/ opportunities.
Savings from 2017 Improvements to Wastewater Treatment Plant
Amount of electricity and fuel oil saved from 2017 efficiency improvements to
wastewater treatment_plant
EY-3
Percent of New, LEED-Certified Residential and Commercial Development by
2035 and 2050
Percenta e of new development since 2017 that is built LEED-certified
EY-4
Number of Trees Planted by 2035 and 2050
Number of trees planted Cii '�Nide since 20i7
• Reductions by Sector
o GHG Reductions by Inventory Sector— Progress Toward 2035 Target
■ Graph comparing 2017 emissions and reductions by sector: energy, transportation, waste,
target gap and remaining footprint in 2035
• Addressing the gap
o The 10 strategies are not the only actions the City plans to take
o Largest gaps projected for Transportation and Residential Energy
o Market forces, and federal and state regulations will help
■ Federal automobile fuel efficiency standards will reduce GHG emissions per vehicle mile
traveled
■ State Clean Energy bills will decarbonize the state electric grid by 2050, and continue
incentives
■ All auto manufacturers are expanding electric vehicle production, driven by European
and Asian markets
■ Solar power costs are expected to continue to fall
■ Heat pumps already cost less than gas furnaces to operate —
■ Sequestration technology is being developed
• Settine a Science -Based Target
Science -based Targets
Celsius
10
1 5°
2°
Fahrenheit
1.80
2.70
3.60
o A science -based climate target sets a rate of climate action that is aligned with keeping
average global temperature increases below a specified level of increase compared to pre-
industrial temperatures.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 26
o Keeping global temperature increases below 2°C will allow the majority, but not all, of the
global population to avoid the worst social and economic effects of climate change (Paris
Agreement)
o The average temperature of the earth is approximately 1.2°C higher today than at the
beginning of the industrial revolution.
What are the options? What rates of GHG reduction are required:
Target
+1.0°C
350 ppm
+1.5°C
400 ppm
+2.0°C
450 ppm
Average Annual Rate of Reduction to Meet Tar et (rounded)
8% 1 5% 2%
Annual Reduction com ared to 2010 values are rounded for simplicity)
By 2020: 15%
13%
10%
By 2030: 70%
50%
35%
B 2050: 100%
100%
80%
Environmental Program Manager Kernen Lien reviewed:
Climate Target Resolution
o Mayor's Climate Protection Committee recommended 1.50Celsius as a target for the City of
Edmonds
o A draft resolution to formally recognize this target is included in the Council packet
o The resolution will inform the update of the Climate Action Plan
M Next Steps
o Climate Action Plan Update
• ESA completed review of other jurisdictions Climate Action Plans
■ Considering format changes and new information to do a major update of the 2010 CAP
■ Develop robust public engagement process
■ Continue consulting with Mayor's Climate Protection Committee
o Interim Actions
■ Interdepartmental "Climate Action Team" of City employees to explore actions the City
of Edmonds can take now to help mitigate climate change
■ Identify actions the City can take to implement climate goals
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
PAINE, TO EXTEND FOR TEN MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Buckshnis said the Youth Commission also supports a target of 1.5° C. Recent literature
states changes can be made by getting rid of fossil fuels and going without gas furnaces, etc. She asked
when the GHG model will be rolled out. Ms. Hope answered that will be part of the next steps. One of the
reasons for community engagement is to get people on board and to suggest changes. Specific updates to
the current Climate Action Plan will occur simultaneously. Prior to 2020, the City Council reviewed this
information and gave an informal approval of the idea of a 1.5°Celsius target. The intent is to have the
Council formally recognize that target via a resolution. That will be used in working with the community
and continuing to refine what's possible. Councilmember Buckshnis recalled even with Taming Bigfoot
in 2018, it was difficult to get information out to the entire community. She wanted to ensure the Climate
Action Plan included reference to blue carbon as the restoration of the Edmonds Marsh will have a
tremendous impact on blue carbon and carbon sequestering. She wished there could have been more time
for discussion of this item.
Councilmember Distelhorst said he will email questions to staff or speak on August 18"'. He concluded
this was an exciting step for the City.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 27
Councilmember Paine said she was sorry this was left to the end of the meeting and she looked forward to
more engagement.
Council President Fraley-Monillas expressed appreciation for Mr. Johnson waiting to make this
presentation as it is important to inform the citizens about the City's climate goals.
Councilmember L. Johnson thanked the Mayor's Climate Protection Committee for all their work last
year on this. She looked forward to further discussions on the update.
2. REVIEW OF COUNCIL CODE OF CONDUCT
Due to the late hour, this item was postponed to a future Council meeting.
i0. MAYORIS COMMENTS
Mayor Nelson wished his father-in-law, Mr. Shelley, a very Happy 70"' Birthday,
II. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmember Buckshnis said John Reed was a special light in our universe. He had wisdom, wit,
humor, intelligence and a big, open heart. He always sought the truth and reasonableness and that did a lot
for the City. She thoroughly enjoyed reading the Planning Board minutes during his era and subsequent
roles he took on as a volunteer. His legacy is captured in the archives of the City and she will miss him
dearly. Most of all, she will miss the twinkle in his eye and smile on his face because he truly was a
gracious leader. RIP John, now you're with Gretchen.
Councilmember L. Johnson said John Reed was one of her first examples in Edmonds of informed, vocal
and civil public engagement. No doubt his work and his example will have a long lasting impact on
Edmonds and on her personally and he will be missed.
Councilmember K. Johnson wished everyone be well.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said Gretchen and John Reed had been her friends for the last 15 years
and she and as well as their children take solace in knowing they are finally together again. It was a
challenge for John to face the world without Gretchen in it and she envisioned them continuing to have
great debates.
Council President Fraley-Monillas advised there seemed to be some misunderstanding regarding the
quarterly financial report. Although it was indicated she was making head nods regarding whether it was
appropriate or not, she wanted people to understand her issue was with having three Councilmembers
bringing up questions for the finance director. Councilmember Buckshnis submitted her questions in
advance but three Councilmembers asked questions on the spur of the which resulted in that agenda item
taking three times the amount allotted on the agenda. She pointed out there were only five items total on
tonight's agenda and the Council was only able get through four items. She encouraged the Council to
reach out to directors and get their questions answered prior to the Council meeting. The Council is not
getting its work done because of the amount of discussion regarding each item. Not only are
Councilmembers asking staff questions in advance, they are often bringing them up again during the
meeting and that is starting to bog down the process. She was asked today about having two Council
meetings a week, but she was not sure that would change anything when the Council only gets through
four items per week. She encouraged Council to get their questions answered in advance so the Council
can get its work done.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 28
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED RY COUNCILMEMBER
L. JOHNSON, TO EXTEND FOR FIVE MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Council President Fraley-Monillas encouraged COlntcilmember to get their questions into staff in advance
because the Council is not: getting the work it needs to get done and a tot. of that is clue to having questions
answered on the fly.
Councihnember Olson urged citizens to use masks so we can get serious about fixing this situation that
we're in.
Councilntember Paine personally credited John Reed for the way downtown is, He was a selfless man,
always putting; others before: himself, and he had a sense of humor. His contributions to the City of
Edmonds are very visible in the downtown area due to land use laws he applied while on the Planning
-Board and his leadership on the Alliance for Citizens of Edmonds (ACC:). lie was a very nice man who
valued his family and his friendships and site will miss him.
Councibne.mbe.r Distethorst thanked Mayor Nelson for the proclamation and everyone's comments about
Mr. heed. It is very sobering, to hear and lie appreciated what everyone said and what his fancily meant to
the community. He urged citizens to wear masks and take care of each other. He hoped everyone had
exercised their democratic right and gotten their ballots in by 8 P.m.
12. ADJOURN
With no further business; the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:33 p.m.
MI ' AEL N> LSON, MAYOR
S OTT ASS , CITY CL —
Edmonds City Couricil Approved Minutes
Aucust 4, 2020
Page 29
Public Comment for 8/4 Council Meeting:
From: michelle dotsch <mdotsch2001@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, August 4, 2020 2:44 PM
To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>
Cc: Council <Council@edmondswa.gov>; Hauss, Bertrand <Bertrand.Hauss@edmondswa.gov>;
Williams, Phil <Phil.WlIlia ms@edmondswa.gov>
Subject: RE: Sound Transit Bicycle Lane Project: Route to Edmonds Sounder Transit Station from
5-Corners missing tonight. Shouldn't it be part of this Sound Transit Grant Project so how do
you get from 9th Ave to Sounder station? Here is Option for Edmonds' res...
* *For public comment record please include image attached if possible - important
for visual map to be included otherwise difficult to envision. Thank you.
1) Route from 5-Corners down Main St to Access road through Yost Park, coming out on Maple
St where road is wide and should accommodate parking on both sides with dedicated bike
lanes. Across 9th, there can be a Hawk signal and crosswalk for safety of bicyclists and
pedestrians.
2) Alternate route is coming out at entrance to Yost Park, go down short stretch of Walnut
using Sharrows as it is a wide street to preserve parking, especially because it is slated as a
future higher density area and already has a crosswalk. There are NO crosswalks across
Bowdoin from entrance to Yost Pool until Five Corners — almost a mile! A huge consideration if
parking is removed in certain areas. Please consider Sharrows on Bowdoin to keep parking for
Yost Pool and Park activities and for the residents/visitors/deliveries to safely park in front of
their homes and not be forced to Jaywalk.
3) Maple is safe and wide, traverses at milder grade than Walnut. Dayton was supposed to be
the primary route downtown from 9th; curious if next to add bike lanes and lose 50% parking
there? Travel Maple using Sharrows and parking allowed on both sides easily accommodated as
sightlines excellent and can cross to Dayton on 8th. Main Street also has Sharrows already
painted below 6th Ave so can cross to Main at 6th if easier than continuing down Dayton and
access that existing route to the Sounder Station.
The public records for Bike counts, only one point for this entire project route was 9th and
Walnut. Wouldn't it be more complete, gain better insight where cyclists go from there, having
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 30
counts closer to Westgate, past Westgate on 100th and anywhere on Bowdoin on the upper
and lower portions by Yost to see do they turn off early to go South on different streets or go
down to 9t"?
As public transportation options are not safe during this pandemic (currently forbidden for
hospital workers to ride at Main UW Hospital for fear of high transmission rates), people are
using the safety of private vehicles to get around and not be exposed to larger, enclosed group
settings with strangers. At half -capacity for our buses, Sounder and LightRail requiring 6-foot
distancing, more people use family vehicles for transportation. Good flow of all motorized
transportation, Uber rides, along with quick and easy parking, will reduce carbon emissions. If
they are now waiting longer to move the same distance, taking longer to drive around and
around to find safe and reasonably close parking, especially for our aged population, veterans
and disabled along with any visitors, keeping the traffic moving along safely and efficiently will
help with all aspects of being good stewards of our City.
Michelle Dotsch
Edmonds Resident
Five Corners to The Bowl of Edmonds
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 31
Rio gle Maps Five Corners, 8401-9457 Main St, Edmonds, WA 98026 to The Bowl of Edmonds, Edmonds, WA 98020
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From: Ken Reidy <kenreidy@hotmaiLcom>
Sent: Tuesday, August 4, 2020 6:36 AM
To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>; Public Comment (Council)
<publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>
Cc: Council <Council@edmondswa.gov>; Nelson, Michael <Michael.Nelson @edmondswa.gov>;
Judge, Maureen <Maureen.Judge@edmondswa.gov>; Passey, Scott
<Scott.Passey@edmondswa.gov>
Subject: Public Comments for August 4, 2020 City Council meeting
As Council is studying a review of the Council Code of Conduct, I provide the October 29, 2009
email below as historical conduct to consider during this study. The email is a public record.
Please note the use of personal email addresses rather than official city email addresses:
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 32
--- On Thu, 10/29/09, gary haakenson <ghaakensonpyahoo.com> wrote:
From: gary haakenson <ghaakenson@vahoo.com>
Subject: Next week
To: "michael plunkett" <m_ ichaelppp98@yahoo.com>
Date: Thursday, October 29, 2009, 3:47 PM
The Hearing Examiner is set to hear the Reidy/Theusen case on November 4th. Scott Snyder
and Reidys attorney have been exchanging nasty emails. Finis Tupper has been asking
questions of Wambolt. Mauri Moore has made a bunch of public records requests bout the
matter and she appears to be working on Reidys behalf which is odd since she was financially
supported by Theusen in the mayoral election two years ago.
DJ met with Moore and Reidy last week. DJ has now scheduled an Exec session on the matter
for next Tuesday against Mr. Snyders better judgment. He has also scheduled a full discussion
agenda item after the exec session to talk about the Reidy/Theusen issue which is against Mr.
Snyders advice. Scott basically says that he CP can put whatever he wants on the agenda but
advised DJ not to with the Hearing Examiner case so close to conclusion which will resolve the
City's portion of the matter.
I've asked Sandy to make the case to DJ to remove the agenda item and only add it after the
exec session if the Council sees fit.
If he persists and puts it on the agenda, you may want to rally three other votes to remove it
from the agenda on Tuesday night if you think its wise.
Just trying to keep you in the loop as to what he is doing. Why he is doing it is beyond me
but if he's working with Reidy .... it must be to get at you somehow.
I share this email with you as I believe it provides an example of conduct the 2020 Council may
want to consider as Council studies updates to the Council Code of Conduct. Conduct
including:
1. The use of personal email addresses by elected officials rather than official City email
addresses;
2. The impact of financial contributions to Candidates on subsequent conduct;
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 33
3. Discussion about the Council President, citizens and others in an email without copying those
people on the email so that they know elected officials are talking about them, and;
4. Efforts to "rally three other votes" outside of an Open Public Meeting.
Thank you for considering this historical conduct as you study and consider updates to the
Council Code of Conduct.
From: michelle dotsch <mdotsch2001@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, August 3, 2020 9:04 PM
To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>
Subject: Option of Safer and More Bicycle Connections to Edmonds' many Parks and Schools -
Alternate Bicycle Route from 5 Corners to Firdale planned bike routes and beyond to Aurora
Village Transit Station and MtLk Terrace Light Rail Station
Edmonds to 23763-23813 100th Ave W
Edmonds to 23763-23813 100th Ave
W
Find local businesses, view maps and
get driving directions in Google
Maps.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 34
Bicycle Connections of this Alternate Route using Sharrows on only 20-25 mph max speed
roads and links to existing Sharrows and dedicated bike lanes previously completed: Reverse
Route the same
1) Five Corners down Main St 1 minute to the access paths on North side to Pine Ridge Park and
directly opposite on South side to Shell Valley Rd to Yost Park, , Yost Pool, Yost Sport Courts
2) From Yost Entrance connects down 96th to Westgate Elementary School - there is a safe
crossing with Flashing Hawk signal on 96th across 220th
Multiple Options:
Could then link to 220th existing bike lanes and link to 84th to Five Corners loop and 212th and
76th to Perrinville and Lynnwood and Interurban Trail from 220th
Could go west on 220th across 100th down Elm Way to 8th and connect there heading west on
15th St SW to cross Hwy 104
3) From Westgate Elementary School continue down 96th to 224th and head West across 100th
to 8th now south to 15th St SW
4) Go West on 15th St SW - already has existing Sharrows.
5) Much safer intersection with Hwy 104 (Edmonds Way) to cross avoiding all High Risk Traffic
congestion, longer crossing paths across Hwy 104 and multiple ingress and egress on either side
of 100th North and South of Westgate, plus Bus Stop in front of Bartell's used heavily by Scriber
Lake -and -Edmonds Heightss-schoolkids and -teens. Long -lines -of - cars -backing -up-to-Westgate -
when schools get out as well better with 2 through lanes.
6) Head west now on 226th St SW - already has existing Sharrows and turn South on 106th Ave
W toward Sherwood Elementary School
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 35
7) Heading south on 106th Ave W - already has existing Sharrows until Robin Hood Drive
8) Follow Robin Hood Drive to Hickman Park an JP Patches Playground
9) Pass Hickman Park at stop sign go East along 238th St SW past Klahaya Swim and Tennis
Club - already has existing Sharrows until intersection of Firdale Ave and 100th Ave W
10) From this intersection can link to existing Bike lanes on Firdale Ave to Firdale Village and
Aurora Village and City of Shoreline.
From this intersection can use Safe Routes to School to extend this bicycle route East
to Woodway Elementary and Madrona Schools.
This Route according to the Bicycle use icon on Google: 3.7 miles taking 23 minutes just 4
minutes longer than original route.
This Route avoids issue of purchasing Right -of -Way access at Hwy 104, a State Hwy. these funds
do not come out of this Grant - they are Edmonds' responsibility. If you follow the Lynnwood
Bike Route on 76th North approaching 196th by entrance to QFC/Rite Aid strip mall, their
dedicated bike lane just ends (poof!) mid -way to the intersection - how safe is that? It must
have been too expensive or difficult a design to cross 196th, so they didn't. Crossing WA State
Highway 104 will be an even more difficult process, potentially costing more money than
expected and all cost overruns are the responsibility of the taxpayers of Edmonds.
This Route has less continuous steep grades, allowing more levels of bicycle riders, especially
the children and teens going to school or for fun. Parents will not want them on the Primary
Main Arterial for cars in Edmonds at 9th/100th with just a painted line separating them from
the parked cars, driveways and vehicles as those roads are a Max speed of 30 mph.
This Route adds more connections to parks and schools already at 20-25 mph so that ALL riders
can learn to use these routes safely and feel more comfortable than being forced by the bike
lane next to the Main Arterial of cars that can go 30mph.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 36
Please consider this route as a viable option that can create more safety, more harmony with
popular and frequent destinations within Edmonds, lower speed limit routes, existing lanes and
sharrows already there to connect to, making costs cheaper. This route also links up better
with our Safe Routes to School program, potentially also allowing more financial options for
electronic speed signs, flashing beacons, additional safe crosswalks, giving us so many more
options for many benefits to more of our residents and visitors alike.
I am more than happy to help in any way to make this a WIN -WIN for many, many more of our
Citizens of all ages and locations, bringing this option to ride safely in Edmonds to a reality
without sacrificing our only main route North and South through Edmonds, allowing the cars to
move easily and safely through, thereby reducing Greenhouse gases by not eliminating a
through lane on each side, which will definitely back up cars, now sitting, idling, waiting longer
and belching more CO2 into the air. We are slated to add more than 3000 more residents to
Edmonds. Less parking means driving more rather than finding easy, safe and available parking.
No longer will those living on 9th/100th and Bowdoin/Walnut have to worry that they will lose
parking access and their own pedestrian safety issues with minimal existing crosswalks if forced
to park across the street and few sidewalks down side roads, especially off of 9th, forcing them
to walk in the middle of the street and if winter, it will be dangerously dark after school, sports
and work.
This took time to put together to share, as I have thought about this route being a great option
for some time now, along with an additional one I will send to get to the Edmonds Sound
Transit Sounder station. I appreciate all of you in hopefully taking time to review this and look
forward to hearing if it can be explored with additional time to process other beneficial route
options further before coming to a final conclusion this Tuesday.
Sincerely, Michelle Dotsch
Edmonds Resident
From: Betty Borgen <bjb1888@hotmail.com>
Sent: Monday, August 3, 2020 4:20 PM
To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>; Nelson, Michael
<Michael.Nelson @edmondswa.gov>; Council <Council@edmondswa.gov>
Subject: Public Comment regarding on -street parking on Walnut Street
Mayor Nelson and Edmonds City Councilors:
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 37
Please see attached file as submission of Public Comment regarding request for continued
allowance of on -street parking on Walnut Street in Edmonds.
Thank you,
Betty J. Borgen and James C. Borgen
Please note: I was given an undeliverable e-mail address for Mayor Nelson, so am including
all recipients once again in this e-mail. Please disregard if this is a duplicate e-mail.
August 3, 2020
Dear Mayor Nelson and Edmonds City Councilors,
Learning that you are considering removing on -street parking on Walnut Street in Edmonds, in favor of dedicated hike
lanes, we are requesting that you reconsider this decision for the following reasons:
• Several sections of Walnut Street are very hilly
• Bikers rarely travel on Walnut Street
• Cars travel fast and not easily seen due to steep hills
• There is poor lighting and no crosswalks for a good portion of walnut Street
• Risk family's safety if required to walk from available parking to residence, especially during dark, wet winter
months
• Homeowners, often working from home and thus taking up driveway parking, would require visitors to find
parking elsewhere which would be almost impossible for visiting, elderly grandparents, etc.
We urge you to continue allowing on -street parking on Walnut Street in Edmonds.
Thank you,
XA (/V "_x
Imes CI Borgen ] BettyJ. Borgen
burr,n_�r,enhru arfbar.cti r b;b13E��aihot�m�ii.c t
From: Bre Borgen <b.borgen@hotmail.com>
Sent: Monday, August 3, 2020 3:07 PM
To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>; Council
<Council@edmondswa.gov>; Nelson, Michael <Michael.Nelson @edmondswa.gov>
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 38
Cc: Bre Borgen <b.borgen@hotmail.com>
Subject: KEEP Walnut Street Parking PLEASE
Hello, I hope this message find you all healthy and doing well.
I am writing with major concerns about taking away street parking and replacing it with bike
lanes between 9th Avenue and Walnut Street.
I live on Walnut Street and rely heavily on street parking. Within four houses of mine there are
a total of 6 kids under the ages of 9 that live on both sides of the street. When these families
are forced to park on the opposite side of their homes this is putting children and families at
risk.
In addition, there are two assisted living homes on Walnut Street. Forcing the elderly resident's
visitors to park far away is not okay. The employees for these facilities will also be pushed into
other crowded streets. I do not feel any of these factors were considered at all when Walnut
Street was selected for this new bike route. Please correct me if I am wrong and you collected
data from neighbors about our thoughts and usage.
Is this really the best way to spend money right now even if it is a grant from Sound
Transit? Zillow just announced work from home forever. How many other big companies are
going to make the move away from downtown Seattle with the current situation we are
seeing?
It looks as if Luke Distelhorst, as stated in one of his response emails and by viewing his Twitter
account; represents the cyclists and is pro bike lanes. My question is who do you have
representing the residents that rely heavily on street parking?
Also, I wonder about the crowded parking around Bar Dojo and another assisted living facility
near Bowdoin and 84th Avenue. Where will this parking overflow to?
Lastly, does the city not have a legal obligation to inform residents directly impacted by such a
big change? You are eliminating parking that when we purchased these homes knew we could
use for ourselves and visitors. When a new house is being built, as we were just informed that
4 new homes are being built on Walnut Street, it was nice to know ahead of time about this
change. The city of Edmonds sent us a letter regarding the 4 new homes and we appreciated
it. You provided no such notice regarding the potential loss of parking. Furthermore, the 4 new
homes on Walnut will cause additional congestion and parking strain on a street where you
want to take away street parking?
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 39
The bottom line is, currently cyclists can ride up and down Walnut Street as is, even though I
hardly see anyone use it as it is a very steep hill, so why take away the street parking of
residents that utilize these spaces on a daily basis?
I've been in contact with Thalia Moutsanides and Diane Shrewsberry that live on Sunset Avenue
to get ideas on how to prevent these types of parking changes as I know they were involved in
Sunset Avenue proposals. I am prepared to work with neighbors and other community
members to help save our parking.
Thank you for considering the impact you are making on Walnut Street. Please do not approve
this proposal. Or at least pause and gather more information from those that will be directly
impacted as I and others do not feel were considered.
Thank you,
Breanna Borgen
From: Kassie Radwick <Radwick6@hotmail.com>
Sent: Monday, August 3, 2020 10:22 AM
To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>; Council
<Council@edmondswa.gov>
Subject: DO NOT REMOVE STREET PARKING ON WALNUT STREET!!!!!!
Dear Edmonds City Council:
Please keep street parking on Walnut St. For the safety of our neighbors on Walnut, to prevent
further congestion around City -owned Yost Park during the summer and to prevent a poor use
of our tax dollars, we ask you to NOT remove parking on Walnut in favor of dedicated bicycle
lanes.
Thank you,
Kassie Radwick
From: Eileen Torres <eileenmtl@hotmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, August 1, 2020 6:55 PM
To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>
Subject: Dedicated Bicycle Lanes
Dear Council Members,
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 40
I live at 1057 Walnut Street, just west of Yost Park. My husband and I love the idea of more bike
lanes in Edmonds, however I am not sure it is wise to use both sides of these particular streets,
eliminating street parking altogether.
Walnut and Bowdoin are used as overflow for Yost Park (hiking, pool and pickle ball activities).
The folks on 96th are going to have to absorb a lot of this overflow and it is going to make travel
into Yost Park busier and more dangerous for the kids to cross. The current parking area in Yost
is barely sufficient now and usage of that park is ramping up. Especially in the summer (other
than this year) there is a lot of traffic when the pool opens.
The entrance to Yost Park (961h and Walnut) is at the bottom of a steep hill which makes it very
easy for cars to accelerate coming downhill. What makes it worse it that because Yost Park
entrance is at the bottom of the hill, it does not look like a typical intersection and we have
witnessed that people not familiar with the area won't even clue into the fact that there is an
intersection there.
If you do decide to create bike lanes on both sides, forcing folks to park and walk across the
intersection, I strongly recommend adding a crosswalk lighting system that flashes for folks to
cross. I am concerned that there could be a real safety issue involving kids otherwise.
Thanks for your consideration.
Eileen and Robin Torres
From: Mark Bucklin <outlook ODCF416302E9OC3C@outlook.com>
Sent: Monday, July 27, 2020 10:34 AM
To: Public Comment (Council) <publiccomments@edmondswa.gov>
Subject: Bike Lanes om 9th/100th.
Council members:
I urge you to reject the tentative plan to use Sound Transit grant money for bike lanes on 9th
Ave ./100th .
I have lived on 9th Ave. S. For 45 years.
The current bike lanes in Edmonds are rarely used. Second, 9th Ave. S. is a major commuter
feeder line for N/S traffic in Edmonds and to the freeway. Third, there are no good off street
parking options for deliverymen, vendors or guests of those who live on 9th. I see lots of
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 41
Amazon, UPS and yard maintenance trucks and residents cars parked during the day on
91" Those who currently elect to bike on 9th Ave. S./100th do not seem to be having any
problems doing so. I have biked on 9th S. for 62 years and had no problems. Bike lanes can
create a false sense of security for cyclists and increase the risk of right turn accidents with
motorists. (Note young woman lawyer killed last year in downtown Seattle bike lane.). The
premise of the grant seems to be to have commuters bike to Sound Transit park and ride lot in
Mountlake Terrace. Any study to show that this would really happen? I doubt it especially
during the eight rainy months of the year. This is not a good idea. Please vote no to this idea.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
August 4, 2020
Page 42