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20180327 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES March 27, 2018 ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT Dave Earling, Mayor Michael Nelson, Council President Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Councilmember * participated by phone Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember Dave Teitzel, Councilmember Neil Tibbott, Councilmember ELECTED OFFICIALS ABSENT Thomas Mesaros, Councilmember ALSO PRESENT Noal Leonetti, Student Representative CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE STAFF PRESENT Phil Williams, Public Works Director Patrick Doherty, Econ. Dev & Comm. Serv. Dir. Shane Hope, Development Services Director Scott James, Finance Director Mary Ann Hardie, HR Director Rob Chave, Planning Manager Jeff Taraday, City Attorney Scott Passey, City Clerk Jerrie Bevington, Camera Operator Jeannie Dines, Recorder The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Earling in the Council Chambers, 250 5" Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute. 2. ROLL CALL City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present with the exception of Councilmember Mesaros. (Councilmember Fraley-Monillas participated by phone.) 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 4. PRESENTATIONS 1. ANNUAL REPORT - SOUTH SNOHOMISH COUNTY FIRE AND RESCUE Fire Chief Bruce Stedman referred to the annual report that was distributed to Councilmember, commenting Edmonds was the first to see the new South Snohomish County Fire EMS emblem. He reviewed: 2017: A year of change o Regional fire authority • Established October 1, 2017 after being approved in August by voters in Lynnwood and Fire District 1. • Combines Fire District 1 and the Lynnwood Fire Department. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 1 ■ City of Edmonds contract with Fire District 1 automatically transferred to the regional fire authority. • Creates a brand new fire department to serve all of southwest Snohomish o Map of South County Fire areas (Brier Mountlake Terrace Edmonds Lynnwood and unincorporated areas) ■ Regional fire and EMS delivery system ■ Builds on a legacy of automatic aid and fire service partnerships o Leadership ■ New Fire Chief started October 1, 2017, the first day of the regional fire authority. ■ Board of Fire Commissioners: — Five elected Fire District 1 Commissioners — Two appointed Commissioners from the Lynnwood City Council o Priority One: Defining our culture ■ Enhance the lives of the community — Core values Integrity Humility Compassion • Family • Trust o Edmonds contract changes • New deployment implemented February 2017 — All 3 stations staffed by a crew of 3 firefighters including at least 1 paramedic to cross - staff fire apparatus and medic unit. — Changed staffing level at Station 17: • 2016: 1 dedicated medic unit with 2 firefighter/paramedics; engine and aid car cross -staffed by 3 firefighter/EMTs • 2017: engine and medic unit cross -staffed by 1 captain, 1 firefighter/EMT and 1 firefighter/paramedic ■ New contract compliance measures Chief Stedman continued his presentation: • Emergency Medical Services 0 85 percent of calls are dispatched as EMS o All firefighters are emergency medical technicians or paramedics o Nationally recognized for excellence and innovation • Community paramedic services o Verdant grant funding o Health & social care early warning system ■ Edmonds is the highest utilizer with 108 in the program o Breakdown barriers and create access to care ■ Visits, emails, calls, texts = 518 o Indicators: Reduced 911 and hospital use ■ For Edmonds citizens in the program: — 40% reduction in 911 calls — 40% reduction in emergency department visits o Who is served: ■ Senior citizens ■ Mental health ■ Disabled citizens ■ Homeless Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 2 • Veterans Reinventing first aid o Time to ACT: Aligning first aid with threats to today's citizens o Antidote: • Administer opiate antidote every 45 hours (16 in Edmonds) • Lead the fire/EMS County Opiate Task Force ■ Opiate follow-up specialist • Surveillance trigger o CPR • Every second counts, every person counts • Heart of Edmonds 500 Challenge o Tourniquet • Scenes of violence • Active shooter event Disaster preparedness o ReadyFest Open House at Station 17 attended by more than 100 people o Neighborhood Ambassador workshops: 120 people trained o Community Emergency Response Team o ReadyTogether online videos and weekly tips Fire Prevention: incidents and investigations o 8 incidents in Edmonds • Total loss 2017: $1,775,000 ■ Total loss 2016: $462,500 o Inspections ■ New Business: 234 • Re -inspections: 223 • Annual Inspections: 1,206 o Permits • Residential fire sprinklers: 43 ■ Special Events, tank removal and operational permits: 90 • Construction permit inspection: 565 o Major Projects: 305 hours of construction plan review • Building 10 • Magic Toyota • Lynnwood Mazda ■ Westgate Multi -use • Madrona Elementary • R2 Fire Alarm Project Prevention Education o Smoke alarm assistance • Installed more than 125 smoke alarms in Edmonds in 2017 • Smoke Alarm Saturday in partnership with Red Cross at Richmar Condos o Child car seat checks o Bike helmets at all fire stations o Falls prevention education o School programs and station tours Community involvement o Easter egg hunt o Edmonds Waterfront Festival 0 41h of July Parade o Waterball Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 3 o Taste of Edmonds o Night Out with Edmonds Police Department o Tree lighting and Santa delivery o Edmonds 500 Challenge o EMS Week open house and Teddy Bear Clinic at Station 17 o Neighborhood Night Open House at Station 17 — April 12 Regional Training o Working with other county departments to regionalize training o Two major initiatives: • Recruit Training Academy — Started March 19. ■ Snohomish County Training Consortiuin o Sharing instructors and expertise o Reduce duplicated efforts o Breaking down borders with neighboring fire agencies will allow us to work together more effectively on mutual aid incidents Assistant Chief of Operations Doug Dahl presented emergency response in Edmonds, 2017 by the numbers (contract required metrics): * How many calls? Year 12013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Total incidents in Edmonds 14,804 4,718 5,291 5,294 5,213 What type of calls o 85% of calls are dispatched as emergency medical aid ■ ALS: 28.51% ■ BLS: 57.01% o Structure Fire: 0.59% o Fire Other: 10.63% o Other: 3.2% Where are the calls? o Map of Edmonds and Esperance ■ Hot spots - high concentration of calls near hospital and downtown Response Times o Looks at 8 minutes response time in four categories o Measures from time of 911 call to arrival o Comparison of data for 2016 and 2017 o Response times are getting longer o Percentne of calls with a response time of 8 minutes or less Year Total Response BLS ALS Fire Time 2016 82.14% 81.25% - 88.18% 65.34% 2017 7.99% 79.78% 86.13% 63.27% o Response time achieved on 90% of calls by category Total Response Year BLS ALS Fire Time 2016 08:53 09:01 08:14 _ 09:57 2017 09:13 09:11 08:26 10:25 o Response times: first paramedic arrival (2 paramedics in 2016 and 1 paramedic in 2017) ■ Percentage of calls within 8 minutes or less 2016: 54.46% 2017: 81.56% Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 4 • Response time on 90 percent of calls in this category 2016: 13:19 2017: 09:14 • This is a predictable outcome of deploying one paramedic at each Edmonds fire station Turnout time o Measures the time from when 911 call is dispatched to the time the apparatus leaves the station o Standard in the contract is different from the standard in the 1756 compliance report: 2:15 vs. 2:45 o Turnout time percentage at 2:15 2016: 80.86% 2017: 76.20% 0 90% turnout time 2016: 02:36 2017: 02:46 o First watch: Live response time compliance ■ New program that provides real time, live data and notifies admin if turnout time is not achieved Neighboring Unit Utilization Factor o What it evaluates: Response of units across jurisdictional boundaries. o What the numbers mean: ■ 100% = an equal balance of cross jurisdictional response. • Contract considers 90%-110% to be within balance range. ■ Over 100% = units from neighboring jurisdictions are responding into Edmonds more than Edmonds units are responding outside the city. o Why does this matter? • We have a regional emergency delivery system. • This evaluates if level of service decisions in one jurisdiction negatively impact a neighboring jurisdiction. o Mountlake Terrace: 2016: 147.2% 2017: 135.3% • Fire and medic units from Mountlake Terrace Fire Station 19 were responding into Edmonds 3 5 % more than Edmonds station units are responding into Mountlake Terrace o Lynnwood 2016: 199.2% 2017: 148.3% ■ Fire and medic units from Lynnwood fire stations were responding into Edmonds 48% more than Edmonds station units are responding into Lynnwood. Unit Hour Utilization Factor o What it evaluates: Percentage of time a fire unit is on a call. o What the numbers mean: The higher the number, the busier the unit is. ■ Unit Hour Utilization Factor is up for Edmonds stations, but within compliance with contract standards. ■ This number is up at all Edmonds fire stations. • 20% is the trigger to start looking at deployment options and additional resources o Unit Hour Utilization Year Station 16 Station 17 Station 20 2016 9.90% 13.20% 13.50% 2017 15.10% 14.60% 16.30% • Transport balancing factor Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 5 Q2 Q3 Q4 Edmonds transports not in the city 52 63 112 District transports in the city 41 33 91 TBF 0.79 0.52 0.81 o These numbers show Edmonds units are doing more out -of -city transports than out -of -city units are doing in Edmonds. o A factor of 1.0 means = in balance. o The difference is not large: 11 patients in Q2, 31 in Q3 and 20 in Q4. o Note: The regional fire authority was formed Oct. 1, 2017, so Q4 includes the City of Lynnwood and responding units from Lynnwood fire stations. Other required metrics o Transport fees billed and collected in Edmonds and Esperance Transport Fees Edmonds 2016 2017 Billed $1,980,534.48 $2,095,695.08 Collected $862,360.15 $781,506.06 Transports Fees Es erance 2016 2017 Billed $109,901.20 $100.893.80 Collected $48,5987.37 $44,978.25 o Edmonds units into Woodway (measured in seconds) 2016: 2,220 2017: 9,738 • Standards of Cover Compliance (SB 1756 report) Standard 2016 2017 Turnout time in standards of cover 2:45 2:36 2:46 Turnout time in contract 2:15 2:36 2:46 First arriving engine company to a fire 6:30 6:17 7:19 Full fire alarm assignment at residential fire 7:45 8:43 18:06 Full first alarm assignment at commercial fire 9:00 11:24 11:55 BLS response 5:15 5:57 6:13 ALS (2paramedic) response 6:45 7:11 1 7:51 Council President Nelson referred to the first paramedic arrival response time, clarifying this compares a two paramedic response time in 2016 to a one paramedic response time in 2017. Chief Stedman agreed. Council President Nelson asked if any other fire department used one paramedic response as a standard for ALS response. Chief Stedman answered not that he was aware of. Council President Nelson noted there was no comparison to a two paramedic response time. Council President Nelson pointed out all medical and fire response times were longer in 2017 compared to 2017. He referred to a March 30, 2018 Fire Commission meeting that he watched where Assistant Chief Dab] indicated in October 2017 it was apparent Mountlake Terrace and Lynnwood BLS units were responding to Edmonds more than Edmonds units were responding to those cities which was impacting the neighboring unit utilization number in Edmonds' contract. To help address that, a deal was struck, not in the contract or written down anywhere, whereby an Edmonds unit would respond before another Mountlake Terrace or Lynnwood unit. Assistant Chief Dahl explained the contract states if responses are out outside the parameters, consideration will be given to remedial ways to fix it. At the time, the City's team including Acting Fire Chief Reading decided to adjust BLS only calls, back when there was a Station 16 and Station 17 jurisdictional boundary, if a BLS was within Station 16 jurisdictional boundary, it would send a Station 16 unit if it was available regardless if a neighboring agency was closer. That was done during a trial period and this week returned Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 6 to dispatching the closest unit at Chief Stedman's direction who was unaware of the trail until recently. There was some improvement in the numbers as a result of that trial but SSCFR wants to continue working with the Edmonds team. Council President Nelson clarified if his neighbor's son his broke arm, an Edmonds unit that was further away would be dispatched even if a Mountlake Terrace was closer and available. Assistant Chief Dahl agreed that was done during the trial period. Councilmember Teitzel commented Edmonds will soon have taller building including an approximately 50-foot tall building at 1001h & SR 104 near Bartell Drugs and the plans to reinvigorate Highway 99 may result in buildings up to 70 feet tall. He asked if the three stations in Edmonds have fire apparatus to reach those heights. Chief Stedman answered not in the three Edmonds stations; however, SSCFR is aware of the vertical growth in its response area and is looking at different standard operating procedures to reach a fire in high rise and mid -rise buildings. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas requested a hard copy of the PowerPoint presentation via email and the turnout times for the last five years. Assistant Chief Dahl agreed to provide both. Councilmember Fraley- Monillas relayed her intent to do a comparison, as there could be some anomalies in prior years. Councilmember Tibbott commented he and ten other Edmonds citizens that he invited completed the CERT training this year. The training was a great experience and he encouraged others to take it. Chief Stedman advised the ACT Now first aid training is being added to CERT. Councilmember Tibbott said he was intrigued with the map of calls and the hot spots on Highway 99 near the hospital and downtown. Observing Edmonds' stations are not the closest to the hospital, he asked how often Mountlake Terrace or Lynnwood are dispatched to the hot spots on Highway 99. Chief Stedman said that information could be provided. Councilmember Tibbott expressed interest in capital improvements to aid response times such station locations and/or types of aid vehicles. Chief Stedman responded there have been discussions about deploying a peak activity unit near the hospital and ways to fund it such as via a partnership. A consultant is current looking at all the stations in their response area to determine if they are in the right locations. To the earlier question regarding high rises, studies indicate getting EMS to a victim on the 15 floor of a high rise adds 3 minutes to the response time. He noted response times are impacted by population growth, traffic, etc. Councilmember Tibbott commented twice this week he has seen an EMS unit headed down the hill from Station 16 to downtown. He asked how many paramedics are needed for an adequate response noting with all three units cross -trained, all have more than one paramedic on a truck. Assistant Chief Dahl clarified each Edmonds station has one paramedic in addition to EMTs. Councilmember Tibbott concluded an EMT was not the same level of response as a paramedic. He asked what type of incident required two paramedics. Assistant Chief Dahl answered any serious event, cardiac, ALS care, etc. is dictated to have two paramedics. He said the reason the unit is coming down the hill is to provide a second medic. Councilmember Tibbott summarized he was very interested in capital improvements. Councilmember Johnson commented after listening to numerous presentations over the years, there seems to be a struggle with turnout time. Having had recent experience with both the fire department and paramedics, she asked if gearing up was a significant factor in turnout time. Chief Stedman answered gearing up delays response time somewhat. He was not comfortable with a 2:45 turnout time and assured that would be fixed. The First Watch program will help with that. He anticipated the turnout time would be 2:30 depending on the station and if a unit exceeds that time, admin will be notified immediately, and the battalion chief can talk to the crew to find out why. Assistant Chief Dahl said a consultant visited each station to evaluate the location of doors, etc.; a firefighter was assigned to work with the consultant for a week and an extensive study was done based on where Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 7 personnel were in the station when a call was received. Different stations have different layouts including one 2-story station which takes personnel longer at night. That study showed 2:35 was what the standard should be. Councilmember Johnson commented it would be badge of honor to meet that turnout time. Councilmember Johnson observed Snohomish County is working on the opioid crisis at a county level; the City plans to study it at the city level and she would welcome any insights they could share. Chief Stedman said he was not prepared to provide any insights tonight; EMS Chief Maxwell participates on the county board. He anticipated the opioid crisis will continue to hit the county harder and harder, agencies must be prepared for it to get worse before gets better. Councilmember Johnson agreed there was a lot to learn. Council President Nelson asked if a peak activity unit would have two paramedics. Chief Stedman answered it was typically two EMTs that do BLS transports; at times the unit does have one paramedic. Mayor Earling referred to the map illustrating the location of calls and the hot spots and asked for clarification of what constituted a call. Assistant Chief Dahl answered it was a call that personnel were dispatched to. Chief Stedman invited Councilmembers to visit their headquarters and he would provide a personal tour of the facility and the training center. He concluded they are Edmonds' fire department and they would like to have all the elected see what they are investing in. Fire Commission Chair Jim Kenny and Deputy Chief Robert Eastman were also present. 2. ANNUAL REPORT FROM ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION Economic Development/Community Services Director Patrick Doherty introduced this item, recalling it has been two years since the Council implemented the new Economic Development Commission (EDC). The new EDC held their first meeting on March 30, 2016. The code requires the EDC provide an annual report during the first quarter. EDC Chair Jamie Reece provided a summary of the 2018 EDC Annual Report. In the past year, the EDC built on the first year of the renewed commission where they considered the most beneficial elements of a new Civic Field for downtown vitality, downtown parking, the Highway 99 Corridor Subarea Plan, and downtown pedestrian signage. In the 2017-18 cycle the EDC continued to monitor these issues, while focusing on 6 other key initiatives: • Development Feasibility - considering various obstacles to effective development throughout Edmonds which could bring more diverse and vibrant shopping, working and living opportunities. This includes the EDC's brief memo supporting the discussion and consideration of a revision of the requirement for a minimum 15' first floor height in the BD zone. After considerable research, input and discussion, the EDC found the current code may be stalling continued enhancement of, and in -fill development in, our otherwise vibrant downtown. The EDC also recommended engaging consultants to study the redevelopment feasibility of the Five Corners commercial district, which has been completed and the resulting report is working its way to City Council at this time. • Highway 99 Redevelopment - continued support for significant redevelopment of the Highway 99 and adjacent zones through public forums and gatherings, as well as letters of support for various initiatives being undertaken by the city. The Commission is hopeful the new policies and changes will spark interest in a significant project in the near future which will kick off a wave of redevelopment throughout the corridor which will bring housing, shopping and work opportunities with excellent access to transit as well as the parks, beaches and cultural opportunities throughout our town. The EDC cohosted a Highway 99 Corridor Redevelopment Forum last Fall after Council approval of the Subarea Plan. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 8 Civic Facilities — the Commission's discussions of Highway 99 spurred conversation about the potential benefits of potentially locating some city facilities along the Highway 99 corridor. We believe this would show support for renewal of this area, while providing easier access to services for many citizens, and greater access to transit city staff in addition to many other benefits for the economics and operations of our city government. Arts & Culture - arts and culture are a major economic driver for our city attracting tourists, citizens and companies, and we are working to support the further development of our arts community. We are working to provide support for Edmonds becoming one of Washington's first Creative Districts, and are a considering the initial recommendations stemming from the Economic Impact Study of Arts & Culture. Affordable Housing - affordable housing is an economic development issue, and we support the city's initiatives to explore and implement solutions to provide more diverse housing opportunities for our citizens. We believe this makes for a better community with greater social and economic diversity, as well as a community which will attract great companies and organizations who wish for their partners to live near work and connect with their local community. We are working the Mayor's housing task force on this initiative and look forward to supporting implementation of recommendations of the task force when released later this year. Technology & Participation in Government - during the course of this year, we tackled a unique challenge of how to accommodate EDC members wishing to strike a balance between their vibrant careers demanding frequent travel and their desire to contribute to their community through local government. A recommendation for a code amendment to allow "remote" participation within necessary parameters was submitted to the Council and later approved for not only for the EDC but for all City Boards and Commissions. Chair Reece identified issues the EDC plans to discuss over the coming year: • Highway 99 • Development Feasibility Issues ■ Civic Facilities • Five Corners Redevelopment • Arts & Culture • Tourism • Any other issues which may arise in the community or at the suggestion of consideration by the Council or Mayor's office. He acknowledged the following: • Commissioners who have served during the past two years: o Aseem Prakash o Nicole Hughes o Matthew Waldron o Darrol Haug o Mike Schindler o Mary Monroe, Vice Chair Commissioners leaving after the conclusion of their 2-year terms: o George Bennett o Stephen Clifton Ex-officio liaison members and their occasional stand-ins during the year: o Neil Tibbott & Adrienne Fraley-Monillas - Edmonds City Council o Nathan Monroe & Phil Lovell - Planning Board o Bruce Faires & Bob McChesney - Port of Edmonds o Greg Urban - Edmonds Chamber of Commerce Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 9 • Staff: o Cindi Cruz o Patrick Doherty Chair Reece commented with the departure of George and Stephen, the coming year will bring fresh perspectives to our Commission. It was his understanding numerous applications have been received and the EDC looks forward to the Council's appointments. Councilmember Teitzel referred to the EDC's recommendation to consider revising the 15-foot building height in BD and asked if input had been solicited from building and/or business owners in the BD about their preferences. Mr. Doherty answered during the background work the EDC did to prepare the memo, the EDC and he have heard from property owners, developers and others. No additional work has been done awaiting a decision by the Council whether to take up the issue. If the Council decides to take up the issue, a great deal more lot more work will be done including gathering information from building and business owners. With regard to affordable housing, Councilmember Teitzel asked if the EDC had an opinion regarding the need to revise the City's accessory dwelling unit (ADU) or detached ADU policy. Chair Reece answered the EDC's initial memo regarding affordable housing reflected their support for making ADU and DADUs more accessible to property owners. Councilmember Tibbott inquired about the formation of a creative district, recalling the economic impact of the arts study indicate arts are very important to the community and Edmonds is becoming known as an arts destination. He asked what it meant to be a creative district and how that might impact economic development. Chair Reece said there will be a limited number of creative districts in Washington. The initial requirements have been increased and resources are being gathered to address them. Mr. Doherty explained when the idea of a creative district was hatched in the legislature last year, many thought of course Edmonds is a creative district due to its resources, walkability, etc. When the actual program was launched, the requirements included a 5-year plan, a steering committee, staff, etc. He and Cultural & Culture Manager Frances Chapin are developing a steering committee with diverse representation and hope to have 2-3 meetings by this summer to develop a 5-year plan and meet other requirements. If the City is granted that designation, the immediate result is only bragging rights but there may be grants in the future grants or grants may inquire whether there is a creative district. The goal is to complete the work by this summer Councilmember Tibbott asked if there were any other benefits to that designation other than potential for grants. Mr. Doherty answered bragging rights could include a sign on the highway saying drivers are entering a Washington State designated creative district. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas referred to the EDC's discussion of potentially moving City Hall to Highway 99 and agreed that may be beneficial. She referred to the comment in the report that new members will bring fresh perspective and asked if the EDC has found bringing in new members generated new ideas and thought processes. Chair Reece answered he was one of a few members that were on the sunsetted EDC. The new EDC included many new voices and energy; like all changes, some are positive and some are not. For example, the smaller group does not provide as much diversity as the larger group, but the smaller group is more productive. He likes fresh perspectives that challenge the status quo. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented it was important to have new views and opinions as well as members who live in different areas of the City. Mr. Doherty said applications for the vacancies on the EDC are being accepted through the end of the week. Mayor Earling and Council President Nelson have appointment authority for those two positions. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 10 Councilmember Johnson commented there are two vacancies as well as three positions up for reappointment. She asked if the Council would have an opportunity to consider whether they wanted to reappoint those members. Mr. Doherty advised the EDC is comprised of direct appointees from each Councilmember and two from the Mayor. Reappointments of the three members are at the pleasure of each appointing authority and no Council confirmation is required. Councilmember Buckshnis asked how reappointments are handled. Mr. Doherty answered three commissioners whose first terms are ending have asked to be reappointed. The reappointment request will be sent to the three appointing authorities; if they do not wish to reappoint the commissioner, it would become an opening. 5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS Darrol Haug, Edmonds, commented among other things, the Council's job is to provide the best possible service, at the lowest possible cost, consistent with sound financial management. Having served on several boards and commissions, the most interesting the Levy Committee where he, along with Councilmember Buckshnis, learned about the complex issues of city finances. Recent property tax bills are causing citizens to question whether they are getting the most from our taxes. The City is not enjoying the same revenue increases as other taxing entities and it is apparent Edmonds taxpayers are supporting many services outside the City. He most often hears are we paying more than our fair share due to our higher property values and how can we reduce costs? The City's tax base has grown by 50% since 2014 from $6.1B to $9.1B. Those on fixed income have not enjoyed similar increases in disposable income. Creating a sustainable budget was identified as a very high priority by our citizens in the Strategic Action Plan. Council has done several things that have helped with stainability. Fire services initially saved $2M by subcontracting to FD1. Neighboring communities are considering a $1.50/thousand rate for fire services; for Edmonds that rate would create a property tax of $13.7M for fire while the current contract is under $1 OM. Mr. Haug relayed another upcoming cost is the SERS 911 radio system, the countywide cost is estimated at $75M. If the City's share is funded via property tax base the cost would be $6M but on a household basis the cost would be $4M, leaving $2M savings for streets or other unfunded services. Library services are another example of Edmonds taxpayers subsidizing others in Snohomish and Island counties. Edmonds represents 5.8% of the population in the library district but pays 8.1 % of the current tax, about $1.3M more than our fair share. He urged the City to consider contracting for library services with Sno-Isle or another library system to enjoy savings as Fire and SERS. Ed Peterson, Edmonds, concurred with Mr. Haug's comments. He commented this was the Council's chance to put a legacy on the City for a long time. He recommended establishing a standard policy on county share of services with regard to how they do business with the City and deviating from that policy requires submittal of a deviation request. The property tax Edmonds residents pay is not the fair share. Peter Gibson, Edmonds, recalled speaking to the Council in December 2016 before the elimination of a 2-man unit Medic 17 was approved and using the Fitch & Associates Study, the elimination of multiple resources. He does not represent South Snohomish County Fire & Rescue but works for a neighboring Fire Department. He referred to Councilmember Tibbott's question about the difference between an EMT and a paramedic, commenting that should have been researched before eliminating Medic 17, a vital resource to advanced life support. The elimination of that unit has resulted in a spiral in response times. The standard in their study states the turnout times for a first alarm fire of 90% or more should be 2:45; the national standard is 80 seconds. For BLS and ALS calls, the standard is 60 seconds. The response times reported tonight are terrible; Edmonds citizens are paying a lot more and getting less. Not only was Medic 17 eliminated, a battalion chief and the ladder truck were also removed. None of the City's resources can currently reach a 3-story building; a 35-foot ladder does not go 35 feet into the air due to the requirement Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 11 for a safe climbing angle. He questioned how often Shoreline Fire responds to Edmonds. He urged the Council to research this because lives are at stake. He questioned the practice of dispatching an Edmonds unit even if a unit in another city is closer particularly for events such as a cardiac arrest. 6. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows: 1. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF MARCH 20, 2018 2. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF MARCH 20, 2018 3. APPROVAL OF CLAIM, PAYROLL AND BENEFIT CHECKS, DIRECT DEPOSIT AND WIRE PAYMENTS. 4. EDMONDS PUBLIC FACILITIES GRANT ANTICIPATION LOAN/BRIDGE LOAN 7. ACTION ITEMS 1. MARSH STUDY BUDGET VOTE Council President Nelson relayed the consultant requested Tasks 2, 3 and 4 be included, tasks the Council has discussed on numerous occasions but were not included in the first vote. There were also minor changes made to the language in the agreement. Councilmember Buckshnis advised the Council did not previously approve the scope or the budget, recalling the Council had extended the timeline from 14 to 16 months. COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON, TO APPROVE THE AMENDED AGREEMENT WITH WINDWARD ENVIRONMENTAL. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 2. ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A FUND FOR HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE Council President Nelson relayed Finance Director Scott James' request to establish a new fund, known as the Edmonds Homelessness Response Fund, before any funds are allocated. COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 1404, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS, WASHINGTON, AMENDING THE EDMONDS CITY CODE TO CREATE A NEW HOMELESSNESS RESPONSE FUND AND FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 3. ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A FUND FOR OPIOID RESPONSE Council President Nelson advised the reasoning was same as the above fund, however, creating a fund known as the Edmonds Opioid Response Fund. COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY- MONILLAS, ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 1405, TO AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS, WASHINGTON, AMENDING THE EDMONDS CITY CODE TO CREATE A NEW Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 12 OPIOID RESPONSE FUND AND FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 4. APPROVAL OF OFFER LETTERS TO FILL VACANCIES IN TWO STAFF POSITIONS Human Resources Director Mary Ann Hardie commented the current low unemployment rate has created a very competitive hiring environment. The two vacancies are the Environmental Program Manager and the Senior Construction Inspector. The two top candidates and finalists for those positions are previous City employees. Ms. Rackleff was previously the Senior Construction Inspector and Mr. Lien was previously a Senior Planner and now will be hired as the Environmental Program Manager. She explained the Mayor has the authority to provide the offer which is within the pay grade of both positions. Contingent offers have been made to the candidates; the only item in the offer that requires Council approval is the vacation accrual. Per the competitive hiring process, the Mayor has the authority to offer vacation comparable to their previous level, 21 days for Mr. Lien as a manager and Ms. Rackleff would not accrue any additional days of vacation leave at this time. In addition, waive the requirement for each candidate to wait until they have successfully completed their probation period to use and accrue vacation leave. For Mr. Lien, this would be an additional 5 days of vacation due to his 9 years of service, and as per the rate of accrual in the contract for Ms. Rackleff. Councilmember Johnson requested Mr. Taraday clarify why the City Council was involved. Mr. Taraday explained ECC Chapter 2.35.090.13, states in order to attract experienced personnel, the mayor may deviate from the typical vacation accrual schedule or other benefits in the chapter and may communicate those higher level of benefits in an offer level but when he does so, he must obtain ratification from the City Council. He quoted from the code, "Such employment offers shall be ratified by the city council. In the event such ratification is not granted, the individual shall retain those benefits only for the budget year in which they are offered." He summarized the Council's role was to determine via ratification that those benefits would continue throughout the term of employment. If the Council did not ratify, the vacation accrual would only continue through the end of 2018 and in 2019 would revert to the accrual rate commensurate with the amount of time the person has been employed. Councilmember Johnson Lien commented in Mr. Lien's case, by being promoted to a manager, he has an increase in vacation leave. Mr. Taraday answered two different factors determine vacation accrual rates, 1) the position, and 2) length of employment. One of the actions Mayor Earling took in the offer letter for the purpose of years of service calculation was to essentially treat Mr. Lien as if he not left the City; he would accrue vacation at the same rate as if he been employed the entire time. Mr. Lien was previously employed for 9'/z years; he would return accruing vacation at the rate of an 9'/2 year employee, not a brand-new employee. Councilmember Johnson reiterated Mr. Lien will have more vacation as manager than as a senior planner. Mr. Taraday referred to Chapter 2.35.030.A which states, "Regular employees shall accrue the following amount of vacation leave with pay based on the length of continuous service," pointing out what was affected was the length of continuous service. Per Section 2.35.030.A.3, if Mr. Lien was hired without the alteration by the Mayor in the offer letter, after the first six months of continuous employment, he would accrue 8 days of vacation. If his 9'/2 years of previous service are included, he would accrue 21 days of vacation per year. Mayor Earling pointed out the City Council previously approved this position and approved it as a manager. Mr. Lien applied for the position and was selected. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 13 Councilmember Teitzel was pleased with both candidates, finding them both highly qualified. He asked if at any time in the past an employee had left and returned shortly with a promotion and was treated in this manner with regard to vacation. Mr. Hardie answered not during her tenure at the Council but there have been deviations in the policy proposed in the past so it is not unusual to offer a different accrual rate. Councilmember Buckshnis said this had never been done in the nine years she has been on the Council; either those deviations did not come to Council or it was before she was on Council. Ms. Hardie answered she would need to research when it occurred but recalled there have been competitive positions under different mayors and before she was a manager or director so the process may have been different. She assured this has occurred in past. Councilmember Buckshnis said she was trying not to personalize the position. She asked if the Council would be setting a precedence by approving this and potentially some liability. She recalled a candidate from another city who wanted to have the vacation accrual from a different city and that was declined. With regard to the general question about precedent, Mr. Taraday said each situation is handled on a case -by - case basis. The Council has the legislative discretion to ratify or not ratify in each situation so from that perspective there is no legal precedent being set. These two candidates were not only past employees but highly regarded past employees, so the Mayor used his authority, granted to him under the code, to extend the offer letters. It is up to the Council to decide whether to ratify that decision. With regard to transferring vacation from another city, his understanding is neither of these employees will begin with bank of vacation, they will begin service at a higher accrual rate than they otherwise would be able to accrue but both will start at zero days of vacation. Councilmember Buckshnis pointed out when the employees left, they were paid out for their vacation, sick leave, etc. The proposal is to deviate from the normal probationary accrual and fast track it. Mr. Taraday assured there is no double dipping; the proposal was not to deposit vacation for which the employee was paid when they left. Ms. Hardie said when the employees left, sick leave is paid out at a percentage; any vacation they were paid for was vacation they had earned and not used. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas commented she had strong feelings regarding this. One of reasons these rules are in place was to prevent to employees from leaving to take another job, disliking that job and returning to the City. She understood the employees not having a probationary period but giving the earlier opportunity to accrue vacation at a higher rate is a benefit. While she was sorry the employees quit, decided they didn't like their new job and now want to return, that was not City's problem. She felt this smacked of unfair and inequitable treatment for any other employee who may terminate and want to return. She asked the timeframe for an employee to return and keep their benefits. Ms. Hardie clarified both positions will have a six-month probationary period. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked how long these employees were gone. Ms. Hardie answered 90-120 days total. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas asked if the reason they were not returning at the same vacation accrual rate was because the policy did not allow that. Ms. Hardie answered the code allows the Mayor to offer a higher vacation accrual rate, but it is subject to Council approval. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas observed this had never done before in Ms. Hardie's awareness. She agreed with Councilmember Buckshnis, other than the instance in Public Works, she never remembered doing this. She understood the employees did not want to lose their vacation accrual rate, but they made that decision when they left. She recalled at least one of them took a long time before deciding to leave including being offered another job and an increase in salary. Now the person wants to return and one of their demands is to accrue vacation at the previous rate. She pointed out vacation equals money. COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO APPROVE THE OFFER LETTERS WITH THE TERMS SPECIFIED. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 14 Councilmember Tibbott understood Councilmember Fraley-Monillas' comments regarding equity to other employees, but was willing to consider it on a case -by -case basis. In this instance, the positions are difficult to fill and the proposal is to hire two people who know the jobs well. It is a tremendous benefit to the City have both employees back, bringing their institutional knowledge, experience and previously established relationships. One of the ways to honor their past and expected future contributions is to bring them back with their previous vacation accrual rate. Councilmember Johnson said she would be willing to support the offer within the City's established rules and regulations but did not support the motion because it seeks to work outside the City's policies and would have a demoralizing effect on current employees. If there was interest in changing the policy, she preferred to look at it holistically. She did not support making a change on a case -by -case basis. She assured it was not reflection on the individuals. Councilmember Fraley-Monillas agreed it was not about the people, both do good work; it was about code. If the intent was not to apply the code across the board, she questioned why have a code. The City has a code for a reason, to protect against abuse. Working as a governmental employee for over 30 years, she was aware of the importance of codes. She agreed with Councilmember Johnson if there was a desire to change the code, that could be considered. Council President Nelson asked whether the code provides the Council the ability to ratify the Mayor's offer. Mr. Taraday assured everything that is being proposed is consistent with the City code which specifically authorizes the Mayor to make these types of offer letters that are outside the norm and the purpose of this authorization is to permit the City to attract persons with experience at comparable public agencies when the Mayor in his discretion believes it is necessary to attract such individuals to the City, benefits may be authorized which place an individual at a higher level of benefits such as vacation accrual than their hire date would otherwise indicate. He summarized this exact situation was contemplated by the City code. That does not mean the Council has to ratify the decision but nothing in this proposal is contrary to the City code. UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION TIED (3-3), COUNCIL PRESIDENT NELSON AND COUNCILMEMBERS TEITZEL AND TIBBOTT VOTING YES; AND COUNCILMEMBERS JOHNSON, FRALEY-MONILLAS AND BUCKSHNIS VOTING NO. Mr. Taraday advised this is not an ordinance or a resolution for the payment of money; therefore, Mayor Earling can vote to break the tie. MAYOR EARLING VOTED YES, AND THE MOTION CARRIED (4-3). 8. STUDY ITEMS REVIEW OF PLANNING BOARD RECOMMENDATION ON AMENDMENTS TO ECDC 23.40.220(C)(8): ALLOWED ACTIVITIES Planning Manager Rob Chave relayed this is a recommendation from the Planning Board on an item referred to them by Council committee in October 2017 for discussion and recommendation. A concern arose with the cumulative 3-year threshold of 1500 square feet in the code for removing invasive species without doing a critical area study. The concern was this could create barriers for non -profits and community groups with limited funds who are providing a service. The Planning Board considered several options that are described in the staff memo and developed the language in Section 23.40.220.C.8 for two types of critical areas, wetlands and wildlife habitat conservation areas (steams). The new language is as follows: Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 15 "For activities intended to protect or restore habitat in wetlands or fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas, vegetation removal under this section may exceed the 1,500 square foot limitation if.. i. The activity is proposed and managed by a non-profit or other organization, approved by the City, that has demonstrated expertise and experience in the restoration or invasive removal activity; and, ii. The project sponsor provides a specific proposal identifying the scope and location of the project, provides for project supervision, and includes a monitoring and inspection schedule acceptable to the City and approved by the appropriate City department. " Mr. Chave summarized the intent was to ensure the restoration/protection activity was done properly and make it as easy as possible for a group to do it. Basically, a group would need to show they have done this type of project before, they have the experience, demonstrate how they will do it and identify the area. This would apply not only to non -profits and community groups but also to the Parks Department such as for marsh restoration. It does not apply in landslide hazard areas where there may be life safety issues. The intent was to develop something specific but and make it easier do bonafide restoration activities. A public hearing is scheduled on April 3, 2018. Councilmember Buckshnis commented the 1500 square feet was arbitrarily decided. The vegetation removal is for the purpose of habitat restoration. She recalled WRIA 8 vegetation removal on the Cedar River and Snohomish River is much greater than 1500 square feet because it includes removal and restoration. She recommended including language regarding the purpose of habitat restoration. Mr. Chave said the section regarding allowed activities in the code requires it be done according to Best Management Practices which typically require restoration. In some cases, restoration may not be required; for example, if weeds are removed and sufficient natural vegetation remains. Councilmember Buckshnis said Earth Corp reviewed this and suggested some of the language. (Councilmember Fraley-Monillas discontinued participation by phone at 8:59 p.m.) Councilmember Johnson was aware of two situations where this had been an issue in Edmonds, 1) removal of Purple Loosestrife in the Marsh that cannot be removed quickly enough to halt infestation, and 2) vegetation removal and replanting on the Holy Rosary site in the Shell Creek area. Mr. Chave said the 1500 square foot threshold in the existing code does not mean vegetation removal cannot be done, it just triggers an additional level of study. In both situations Councilmember Johnson mentioned, under the proposed amendments, as long as an agency demonstrates their experience, etc., it can approve without an additional level of study. Councilmember Teitzel asked whether staff s decision would be affected if the area greater than 1500 square feet included both a wetland and a steep slope. Mr. Chave said under the proposed amendment, removal could be granted for the portion outside the steep slope. A geotech report would be required for removal on a steep slope. 9. REPORTS ON OUTSIDE BOARD 8z COMMITTEE MEETINGS Councilmember Buckshnis reported WRIA 8 is working on their budget, legislative priorities, and a success story on the Cedar River. She was hopeful WRIA 8 would make a presentation to Council. Councilmember Tibbott reported the Economic Development Commission is studying whether there could be higher/better use for existing civic facilities and potential for relocating some along Highway 99. They do not have a specific recommendation yet. The Port of Edmonds is running well. Their water treatment system that uses oyster shells is able to treat water flows at a very high level that exceeds what some other Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 16 marinas doing with more elaborate systems which speaks well for the system and the Port's commitment to environmental purity. Councilmember Tibbott reported an AWC wellness seminar that he and approximately 350 others attended at the Lynnwood Convention where they learned about practices that cities can put in place to benefit employee wellness. Council President Nelson reported he attended a SERS meeting; their leadership continues to meet with City Councils as well as a subcommittee of the Snohomish County Council seeking approval of resolutions in support of a new radio system. The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee met to review updates/changes to the VisitEdmonds.com website. The Snohomish County Tourism Bureau changed their slogan to, "Come visit Seattle's back country" which the LTAC did not feel was appropriate and they plan to contact the Bureau about it. Mayor Earl agreed, advising the City had contacted the Bureau about that slogan. Councilmember Teitzel reported: • Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) Transit Oriented Development meeting o Population in the Puget Sound region is expected to grow by 1.8 million, from 4.0 million to 5.8 million by 2050 o The PSRC area is 6,300 square miles ■ Urban growth area (UGA) is 1,000 square mile o Working on Vision 2050 to replace Vision 2040, adoption target is 2020 o Policy focus is to absorb growth in the UGAs and along transit corridors, maintain open space and reduce sprawl to the extent possible o Goal to create enough housing near transit stations to absorb 25% of 1.8 million growth and minimize parking to encourage transit o Development along transit corridors would be mixed use with a spectrum of housing including affordable housing o Sound Transit does not think Trump administration will pull funding from ST3 • Snohomish County Tomorrow o Providing input to PSRC regarding Vision 2050 representing Snohomish County's interest o Focusing on regional centers. For example, the Arlington/Marysville area will be defined as a manufacturing industrial center focused on attracting more manufacturing/aerospace businesses due to available land Economic Alliance of Snohomish County o Snohomish County continues to be one of the fastest growing counties in the country o Sound Transit reported they have allocated $40 million to enhance transit parking in Mukilteo and Edmonds, primarily Sounder parking, by 2024 Affordable Housing Alliance o Will make present to Council on April 18 o Trends very alarming. For example, the percentage of cost burdened families continues to increase rapidly, faster than housing availability is increasing o Focus on Housing Trust Fund as a way to create housing. o Snohomish County allocated $1 million in REET, $500,000 of that is allocated to the Housing Trust Fund o Appeal made to cities to contribute to Trust Fund o Interested in funds Edmonds allocated to affordable housing. He assured them the City is studying the issue and has no plans to allocate the fund to the Trust Fund at this time Disability Board meets quarterly to discuss the claims of 26 LEOFF 1 employees who retired 20 years ago and are typically 70-80 years old o When they retired, the City agreed to pay for any medically necessary products/services that insurance did not cover. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 17 o Cost are increasing because two require special care, one in -home and one in assisted living o Costs will continue in 2018 and potentially grow due to the elderly population o For the member in assisted living, the City contracted with a patient advocate (no cost) to identify a lower cost facility Councilmember Johnson thanked Councilmember Teitzel for attending Sound Transit and PSRC TOD meetings she has been unable to attend. 10. MAYOR'S COMMENTS Mayor Earling reported the federal government passed a budget which is critically important for several projects in Washington; the largest was Sound Transit full funding grant agreement which had not been finalized Mayor Earling reported on Saturday nine people will be going go to Hekinan, Japan to celebrate the 30' anniversary of Edmonds' sister city relationship with Hekinan and to celebrate Hekinan's 70' birthday. Hekinan was originally three smaller communities that joined 70 years ago. 11. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Johnson reported Student Representative Noal Leonetti is very involved in Taming Bigfoot. She was troubled Sound Transit would not reach Everett until 2037-2040. With the statistics regarding population growth and funds going into transit station development, she said Snohomish County was losing out. She wished Mayor Earling a wonderful time in Japan. Councilmember Teitzel said he was always impressed by the willingness of volunteers to help those less fortunate. This weekend he participated in a food packing event at the Methodist Church that included 50- 60 volunteers from the Edmonds Daybreaker Rotary as well as the Noon Rotary Clubs who packed over 3,000 lunches for McKinney-Vento students who are driven to Edmonds Schools from locations as far as 50 miles away and may need additional nutrition. Council President Nelson wished his mother a Happy Birthday. Councilmember Tibbott wished everyone a Happy Easter season. While attending the Edmonds School District Foundation event earlier this month, the Council was invited to pack food for Nourishing Network. He was unable to secure a day this year so will schedule one in the fall. Nourishing Network serves families throughout the Edmonds School District. Councilmember Buckshnis wished the Hekinan delegation a happy Hekinan experience. She reported the Tree Board will have a presentation from the consultant preparing the Urban Forestry Management Plan on April 5 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. Audience comments are accepted. 12. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION PER RCW 42.30.110(l)(i) This item was not needed. 13. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING 1N EXECUTIVE SESSION This item was not needed. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 18 14. ADJOURN With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:21 p.m. SCOTT PASSEY, CITY CLEk 1-1 Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 27, 2018 Page 19 P