20190122 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
January 22, 2018
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Dave Earling, Mayor
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Council President
Michael Nelson, Council President
Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember (by phone)
Thomas Mesaros, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
Dave Teitzel, Councilmember
Neil Tibbott, Councilmember
CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE
STAFF PRESENT
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Carrie Hite, Parks, Rec. & Cult. Serv. Dir.
Shane Hope, Development Services Director
Kernen Lien, Environmental Program Mgr.
Bertrand Hauss, Transportation Engineer
Rob English, City Engineer
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 5th 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. Councilmember Johnson
participated by phone.
6.
5.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT, TO
APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL, TO
APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items
approved are as follows:
APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF JANUARY 15, 2019
2. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF JANUARY 15, 2019
3. APPROVAL OF CLAIM, PAYROLL AND BENEFIT CHECKS, DIRECT DEPOSIT AND
WIRE PAYMENTS
4. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIMS FOR AN UNDETERMINED AMOUNT
5. REAPPOINTMENT OF TWO CEMETERY BOARD MEMBERS
PRESENTATION
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 1
Sediment Quality Sampling
- WC -03 (Harbor Square Outfall)
• Semi -Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs) Exceedances (Significant)
- WC -04, WC -05, WC -06 Showed lesser (minor) exceedances of SVOCs
Water Quality Sampling
- Fecal Coliform exceedances -all stations, periodically, except none at WC -01 (Marina
Beach Park)
- Lead - One exceedance at WC -05 (Dec. 2016)
- D.O & pH - Minor, periodic exceedances at WC -03
Macroinvertebrate Sampling
Station ID Station Name
WC -01 Puget sound
WC -02
Lower Willow Creek
WC -03
Willow Creek Marsh
WC -04
Willow Creek Marsh
WC -05
Willow Creek Marsh
B -IBI Score I B- B1
18 Poor
14
Ve Poor
12
Very Poor
16
Very Poor
18
Poor
WC -06 U er Willow Creek 18 Poor
WC -07 U er Shellabar er Creek 14 Ve Poor
- Low ratings are due to limited riparian cover and impacts to upstream tributaries from
stormwater inputs
Councilmember Nelson asked if Alternatives 5, 6 and 7 used Alternative 4. Mr. Cline explained Alternative
45 the preferred alternative From the first phase, was used to analyze extreme tide conditions and
configurations with flood walls and/or the tidegate. Councilmember Nelson asked if Alternatives 1-4 could
be selected and use Alternatives 5, 6, or 7. Mr. Cline answered they would be slightly different.
Councilmember Nelson referred to Alternative 3 which has extensive buffers, recalling the concern that it
impacted WSDOT parking at the multimodal project. Since that project is not in WSDOT's plans for the
next 20 years, he asked why there was a concern with parking. Mr. Cline answered it is WSDOT's property.
Mr. Williams explained WSDOT has a basic footprint of that project if they ever guilt it; the draft long
range ferry plan does not specifically name Edmonds Crossing as the project to solve ferry issues in
Edmonds and only states that WSDOT will work with the local community to define the right option. The
plan does discuss the need for extensive improvements at the current location but does not state they will
never build an Edmonds Crossing -like project. At some point WSDOT will own the property and the City
is trying to figure out a way to work with them to design a channel across their property that is at least
compatible with what their future needs might be.
Councilmember Nelson commented WSDOT's future needs are not in the current 20 year plan. Mr.
Williams clarified it is not funded in their 20 year pian; but WSDOT owns property so the City needs to
work with them. Staff talked with WSDOT today about their future plans for the property and when the
property title will be transferred. It cannot be completely discounted that WSDOT may have uses for that
property in the future.
Councilmember Nelson commented it has been 20 years since WSDOT has been interested in that project
and it is not in their next 20 -year plan; meanwhile there is an opportunity for larger buffers, but there appears
to be interest in holding off on that due to a what -if scenario. He preferred to push back on WSDOT to have
lager buffers. Mr. Williams said the goal was a balance between adequate buffers from an environmental
standpoint which can be further defined, but there is a point of diminishing return with larger buffers. He
agreed the buffers needed to be right sized.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 4
Councilmember Nelson observed the buffers were smaller due to WSDOT's parking. Mr. Williams said
the footprint for Edmonds Crossing was prior to any discussion regarding marsh buffers. Councilmember
Nelson observed that was where the parking would be if Edmonds Crossing were ever build. Mr. Williams
agreed it could be there; the goal is to figure out how WSDOT could design their project around a perfectly
adequate environmental buffer for the marsh project so the City gets what the environment needs and
WSDOT has a way to build a project in the future should they ever decide to do so. It is difficult to meet
both those needs with one design. With respect to hydrologic modeling and the buffers, Mr. Cline said they
are independent of each other; the hydrologic model does not look at the buffers in calculating flooding and
flows. It is part of the model but does not drive the model. If the buffers were modified on the alternative,
the hydrologics he presented would look very similar if not identical.
Councilmember Nelson observed all the diagrams include seawalls and asked there were alternatives to
seawalls, recognizing that seawalls have a shelf life and are frowned upon. Ms. Hite said the seawall in
front of the senior center is being removed, the elevation raised up and graded back to the parking lot similar
to Brackett Landing South, ideal conditions for habitat by not armoring the shoreline. The City has a lot of
shoreline; Marina Beach, Brackett's South are soft beaches and the senior center will be. At some point in
the future, the City will have to consider capping, raising and/or restoring the existing seawalls that will be
flooded. It could be as easy as capping, but could be more difficult and expensive such as removing them,
raising the soils and building berms similar to what Mr. Cline described around the marsh.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented the discussion is back to the issue of buffers and what is good for
the environment. She preferred a larger buffer where shade trees and more woody debris could be added
which may impact hydrology. She agreed with Councilmember Nelson, and believed WSDOT should be
on board with this project to save Chinook salmon. The City shouldn't be trying to help WSDOT with a
project that they have no idea whether it will be built. She preferred to have the largest buffers possible.
Councilmember Buckshnis said the Edmonds Beacon reported today that the property transfer has been
delayed until summer. Mr. Williams said the City learned that today in a phone call with Ferries. The
January/February timeframe was optimistic when it was first expressed last fall. WSDOT informed the City
today that an optimistic scenario for the property transfer would be mid -summer. He explained this is being
driven by Ecology; Unocal is the current property owner, Ecology entered into a consent decree with
Unocal, and WSDOT has placed funds into escrow to purchase the property. What triggers the closure of
the sale is Ecology announcing that the cleanup levels have at least been initially met; it is likely that will
take until at least mid -summer. Longer term monitoring will also occur.
Mayor Earling, who participated in today's meeting, said there had been growing concern that the date for
the property transfer was moving, having heard it would occur after the first of the year, in January, during
the first quarter, etc. As Mr. Williams indicated, it is clear mid -summer is probably the soonest the property
transfer could be expected to take place. A meeting is being set up with Councilmember Buckshnis and Joe
Scordino to provide details on the potential delays.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to an email from WRIA 8 that if the City can show WSDOT's intent
to enter into an MOU, WRIA 8 is willing to provide grant funds. She was interested in larger buffers, and
was concerned with shading, woody debris and dredging the gunk from fresh water because of the cattails.
It is unknown how the marsh will function because it is currently so impacted by rhizomes. Mr. Williams
said work on the project will not stop because the property transfer has not occurred or won't transfer as
soon as hoped. In order to ask for funds for detailed design and construction, there needs to be an identifiable
property interest. Councilmember Buckshnis agreed granting agencies look at that fact. WRIA 8 will not
begin grant review until June 2019 and there are PSAR, SRF Board and other grant opportunities.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 5
Ms. Hite said a preapplication for NOAA was submitted last week and Keeley O'Connell is also working
on a SRF Board application. In the meeting today with WSDOT, they were asked if they would sign an
MOU even if they did not take ownership of the property until July or August so the City could move
forward with the two grant applications and they said no, that was moving too fast for them as they have
not decided what to do with the property. Councilmember Buckshnis said the public needs to get on
WSDOT because they should be supportive for the environment.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether Mr. Cline's reference to granting agencies was only WRIA 8 or
others. Mr. Cline said it was the current SRF Board grant which includes scoping language and option
language based on what was found in the first modeling analysis. It did not originally include a sea level
rise analysis. After Mr. Williams suggested talking to the granting agencies about sea level rise, he and Ms.
Connell convinced the granting agencies that that should be part of the analysis and the scope was changed.
Councilmember Buckshnis said WRIA 8 has been considering sea level rise as well as community
involvement. Ms. O'Connell clarified the RCO technical committee, not WRIA 8, oversees the SRF Board
and PSAR grants and has to grant approval. Due to the location in the watershed, it has to go through WRIA
8 to get the funding.
Councilmember Johnson referred to the Washington State Supreme Court decision on the culvert case
brought by the Tribes. It was her understanding their preferred conditions through the Edmonds Marsh
mean that tidegates and pump stations should not be built. Mr. Cline responded the daylighting project
meets the intent of the culvert decision, taking out a very long culvert and blockage within the system which
aligns with the legal issues. With regard to the pump station, it is more complex in that there are heavily
urbanized areas with additional runoff and the City is doing its best to isolate and separate stormwater from
natural stream flows and tidal conditions. It would be difficult to drain areas around Dayton without
additional assistance. In certain areas, there will need to be engineering around the site topography. Mr.
Williams agreed, that project is at 90% design and soon at 100% and it is hoped it can be built this year.
The project cost is approximately $2M with $1.5M already committed. The pump project will provide great
relief for WSDOT in particular, their ferry holding, the intersection and south on SRI 04. The City hopes to
convince WSDOT to help in acquiring the last $500,000. That project will be quite effective at stopping
flooding at the intersection and on Dayton which will only get worse as indicated by the modeling.
Councilmember Johnson said it was her understanding from the Windward consultant that one of the
reasons for flooding at Dayton is invasive species in the Marsh east of SRI 04. Those are not on public
property but to allow for proper drainage, the invasive species need to be completely removed as well as
improve the culvert under SR104. Mr. Cline agreed invasive species have reduced flood storage and
conveyance in Shellabarger; a great objective for the overall project would be to perform invasive species
control and management in the system.
Councilmember Johnson recalled comment during the presentation that the seawall near the senior center
needed to be fixed. When the Council was considering that project, she asked whether Shannon & Wilson
had done modeling for the senior center to cover king tides, storm surge and sea level rise and was told the
contract did not include that evaluation. Ms. Hite explained a different team, Environment Works, has been
working with the City on the seawall and beach rehabilitation and have modeled sea level rise and raised
the beach level into the parking lot. A seawall will be constructed under the walkway to prohibit water
flooding the parking lot. The beach rehab has considered sea level rise; the seawall directly in front of the
senior center is not part of the beach rehab and will not be touched in this project. According to Mr. Cline's
modeling, before 2100 the City will need to consider the seawall that runs from the fishing pier to the
Ebbtide and north of the Ebbtide in front of the senior center.
Councilmember Johnson recalled no fecal coliform was found associated with the dog park. She asked if
there was testing done for dog urine near Puget Sound. Mr. Cline answered no, only fecal coliform.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 6
Councilmember Johnson said she has heard from several constituents about the lack of local flora and fauna
in the water around the dog park that can be observed at low tide. She was concerned about potential runoff
and how it impacts fish and water quality. Mr. Cline said the exchange of water in that area will be
substantially different with daylighting. There is a lot of water going in and out on each tidal cycle and all
flushing would impact Puget Sound water quality in the tidal channel in and around Marina Beach Park.
Councilmember Teitzel said the Council has contracted with Windward Environmental to do an assessment
of the marsh as well as soil and water quality testing. He asked if Shannon & Wilson and Windward's
efforts were integrated. Mr. Cline said Shannon & Wilson has shared data with the City and their team.
Councilmember Teitzel asked whether salmon prefer to enter nearshore saltwater estuaries at high tide or
any tide. Mr. Cline said his understanding they usually enter on the incoming tide, foraging in the areas
along the shoreline and as the tide comes in, they follow the tide in, forage and then follow the tide out.
Councilmember Teitzel said his concern was if salmon prefer high tide, would an automatic tidegate
preclude salmon from entering in the marsh during high tide. Mr. Cline answered it could, but the self-
regulating tidegate was planned to be in operation during winter months which are not salmon rearing and
foraging months. Salmon rearing and foraging period is spring to early summer and the tidegate would be
fully open at that point.
Councilmember Mesaros recalled previous presentations indicated the level of environment cleanup
required by WSDOT is at a certain environmental -readiness level, but what will be needed for the
daylighting of Willow Creek is at another level. Mr. Cline explained WSDOT's cleanup is risk based
cleanup criteria which uses statistical criteria across the entire site to meet their cleanup level. As a result,
there may be small areas that have low level contamination or exceedance in places that are statistically
significant that could be encountered when re -excavating into the soils. That has been addressed in the plan
via a large contingency to line the channel. It is included as a contingency because they have not had access
to the site and cannot do sampling along the daylight alignment. As there is access to the property, better
information will be available.
Councilmember Mesaros asked if the first four alternatives were shared with WSDOT today. Ms. Hite
answered they were shared about six months ago. Councilmember Mesaros asked whether WSDOT finds
Alternative 4, the preferred alternative, acceptable. Ms. Hite answered they do. Councilmember Mesaros
asked if Alternative 3 was discussed with WSDOT. Ms. Hite answered all four alternatives have been
shared with WSDOT but it was prior to their community engagement process to determine their long range
plan, prior to them knowing they would remove Edmonds Crossing from the plan for now. WSDOT was
concerned about the impact to that facility and liked Alternative 4.
Referencing Councilmember Nelson's comments, Councilmember Mesaros said there is an opportunity to
revisit that now that more is known. Ms. Hite believed so, commenting the most definitive alignment of the
channel is across Marina Beach and it needs to reach the culvert to the south because that is the access
across the beach. Anything on the WSDOT property will have to be negotiated.
Council President Fraley-Monillas asked about the 1.8 foot sea level rise by 2100, recalling NOAA's
projection was 8.8 feet. Mr. Cline explained there are multiple projections regarding sea level rise that range
from 1 foot at year 2100 to 6 or 7 feet depending on the model. The Army Corp of Engineers and NOAA
developed a sea level rise calculator for community planning purposes online; they selected the Corp of
Engineer's mid-range moderate sea level rise projection at 2100 which coincides with the NOAA low
probability; NOAA's high end is 6-7 feet. These are two different agencies with different methodologies
and politics and what they are willing to publish for planning purposes. Shannon & Wilson used that as
reasonable estimate because they coincided and it was an average among all projections. An 8 foot elevation
is a very low probability according to their models. Mr. Cline said the target is moving, from the time this
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 7
began, there has been a .8 foot increase in projections. As they refine and move forward, the estimates seem
to be increasing.
Council President Fraley-Monillas was concerned with the possibility of sea level rise being much quicker
and there being inadequate planning, questioning what good has been done if the marsh ends up underwater.
Mr. Cline agreed it was a challenging question and as the project goes forward, it will need to rely on the
science and guidelines that the agencies provide. To be resilient and adaptive, systems should be designed
such that they can be modified and raised if necessary. With regard to more water in the marsh, that is still
good for fish; the marsh provides an area for refuge and foraging. Council President Fraley-Monillas
commented if the whole waterfront was flooded, there would be nothing to block the streams which would
be really good for salmon.
Councilmember Tibbott acknowledged this was the beginning of a series of presentations about marsh
restoration, floodwaters, etc. so he may be asking questions that would be answered in later presentations.
There appear to be three objectives for marsh restoration/daylighting, 1) filtration of stormwater, 2) habitat
restoration, and 3) flood protection. He asked whether daylighting helps filtration of impurities that come
into the marsh with increased flows. Mr. Cline said they have not done detailed analysis or study but the
system currently acts as a detention/retention basin due to the small opening at the downstream end. The
180 culvert that is partially closed and hardly allows any water out as well as the pipes under Admiral Way
result in the storage of a lot of water which equates to traditional stormwater treatment, retaining water,
settling out the solids and the marsh treats the solids. Opening that will allow for more flushing and less
daily storage for water quality treatment.
Councilmember Tibbott said theoretically then, there would be better filtration if the daylighting did not
occur. Mr. Cline said there is currently detention/retention. What isn't known is when water flows through
natural marsh systems, is there a change in water quality treatment at the marsh surface depending on
vegetation conditions; the literature is not absolutely clear on that. Mr. Williams said in general a proper
functioning wetland system with fully and partially wet areas is wonderful place for processing
contaminants as long as the system is not overloaded. The more biological activity in the space, the better
some containments will be processed. If it is a contaminant associated with sedimentation, as long as the
water slows enough and the particles are heavy enough, they will settle and if it is an organic molecule, it
will eventually break down.
Councilmember Tibbott concluded it was anticipated that with daylighting, there would be at least enough
pause in the tidal flow that sediments would be able to settle. Mr. Williams answered it depends on what
the sediment is, how finely divided it is, etc. Typically a lot of things would get reasonably effective
treatment in a properly functioning marsh as long as most of the load is removed from urbanized areas in
another way which is why the pump station project is an important antecedent project to the marsh rehab.
With regard to the second objective, habitat, Councilmember Tibbott observed a proper functioning marsh
would have vegetation, woody debris, etc. He asked how long it would take, what that involved and what
marsh restoration looked like. Ms. O'Connell advised in this case there is already a vegetated system, it is
not so degraded that it will have to be replanted, it will fill in with the seed source that is already available
in the marsh. There is a diversity of salt tolerant and freshwater plants. She pointed out the acreage of new
marsh created in Alternative 4; in addition to the channel, there is a reopening of what is a currently a storm
pond and converting it back to marsh.
With regard to timelines, Mr. Cline said he has been fortunate to construct a number of estuary construction
projects; this project will include conversion of vegetation along the margins from freshwater to saltwater.
He would use a 5-10 year horizon to let things take over; not a lot happens in years 1-3 and in years 4 and
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 8
5 the reactivated seed base takes off. After 5-10 years, there would be a change in larger riparian structures
such as trees and larger shrubs.
Councilmember Tibbott referred to WC03 water flow located at Harbor Square and asked where those
flows come from. Mr. Cline answered the Harbor Square parking areas and Dayton contribute to that outfall.
He identified the storm line and catch basins that contribute to the outfall on the Water and Sediment Quality
Monitoring drawing. With regard to water quality treatment, Mr. Cline said the project includes stormwater
retrofits. For the project to work, there needs to be a tidegate on the outfall and possibly a filtration retrofit
of catch basins leading into the marsh.
Councilmember Johnson referred to a comment that the most likely time for fish to enter the marsh was
spring and summer, recalling in a previous presentation to the Planning Board, it was said small fish winter
over or live in the marsh. Ms. O'Connell explained due to the size of this system, fish of that size would
not over -winter. As juvenile salmon migrate out of the rivers where they hatched, they will spend time on
the shoreline moving in and out of this type of marsh until they reach the size to migrate to the Pacific
Ocean where they will live for 3-5 years before returning. In larger marsh systems, particularly those
associated with large river deltas such as the Snohomish and Skagit River Deltas, there may be fish in those
systems year-round. It would be unlikely for juvenile salmon to remain in this system year-round. Ideally
Coho and/or Chum adults would eventually return and spawn in Shellabarger and Willow Creek again, but
Chinook, the target for recovery, would not.
Keeley O'Connell reviewed:
Willow Creek Daylighting Project Progress to Date
o Early Feasibility Study
o Marina Beach Master Planning Process
o Final Feasibility Study
o Alternative Alignments Study
o Marsh site-specific study (est)
Willow Creek Daylighting Project Next Steps
o Stakeholder meetings
■ MOU with WSDOT is needed to be competitive in
seeking grant funds
o Initial Design Phase (30-60%)
o Marina Beach Park Design
o Permitting
o Final Design Phase
o Implementation — daylight channel elements
o Implementation — Marina Beach Park
Future Funding Scenario
o Multi -benefit project = Multiple Funding Sources
■ Salmon recovery
■ Stormwater Mgmt
■ Flood protection
■ Recreation enhancement
■ Education opportunities
07/01/2012
— 02/01/2014
08/01/2014
— 10/31/2015
04/01/2015
— 03/31/2017
09/01/2017
— 12/31/2018
01/01/2017
— 06/30/2019
03/15/2019 — 12/31/2019
10/01/2019 — 7/31/2020
01/01/2020 — 10/31/2020
09/01/2020 — 5/31/2021
12/01/2020 — 7/31/2021
10/01/2021 — 6/30/2022
02/2022 — 08/31/2022
Ms. O'Connell explained the biggest challenge is working with WSDOT on an MOU so funders are secure
that WSDOT will be an active partner. The project is stuck at the current phase because in 2015 Chevron
denied access to the Unocal site; without access, the necessary studies cannot be completed to proceed into
the design phase.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 9
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether the Marina Beach design is complete. Ms. Hite answered therc
is an adopted Master Plan that includes the daylighted channel. Councilmember Buckshnis referred to the
Marina Beach Park Design in 2020 in next steps. Ms. Hite answered that is preparing design and
construction documents based on the Master Plan.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to RCO documents that state 1/31/2019 project end date, all expenses
must be incurred by this date. Ms. O'Connell said that represents the WRIA 8 funding for this phase which
is complete. All the expenses have been incurred and a final report will be done by the end of the month
that will be submitted to the RCO technical committee. Councilmember Buckshnis summarized that grant
was for the preliminary design. Ms. O'Connell said it was for the final feasibility and alternative alignments
including sea level rise.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented the preliminary design is not part of the alternatives. Ms. O'Connell
said the project is not there yet. Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether funds for design could be
requested without the MOU. Ms. O'Connell said she is working with RCO staff. She will see how the new
information from WSDOT will impact the grant application process this year. Councilmember Buckshnis
suggested calling Jason Wilkinson, WRIA 8, pointing out plans to route Taylors Creek under Martin Luther
King Boulevard. Ms. O'Connell said Mr. Wilkinson is supportive, but RCO needs to provide approval.
2. CITY SUSTAINABILITY ACTIVITIES UPDATE
Development Services Director Shane Hope explained sustainability is an opportunity to look at things in
an integrated way. She reviewed:
• Development Services & Cross Department
o Long Range Plans
■ Comprehensive Plan (including Sustainability Element
■ Climate Action Plan
o Solar Panel Program
■ City launched solar program in 2011
■ City collaborated with the Edmonds Community Solar Cooperative to install solar panels
on Frances Anderson Center roof in 2011
■ Since 2012, City has issued 100 permits for solar installations, generating a total of 541
kW
■ Edmonds received SolSmart Bronze designation for its promotion of solar energy use
o Green Room
■ Brightens space for customers
■ Display of "green" building elements, environmentally -friendly techniques, etc.
o Low -Impact Development Hand-outs
■ Standard details
■ Frequently asked questions
■ Example of handout showing standard detail for raingarden design
o EnviroStars Green Business Program
■ Regional program
■ Special website & information
■ Growing number of Edmonds businesses
o Sustainable Cities Partnership
■ Yearlong partnership between Western Washington University's Office of Sustainability,
Association of Washington Cities, and City of Edmonds.
■ Edmonds was chosen as first Washington city to participate in program.
■ Projects undertaken in 2016-2017 academic year included:
— 4th Ave. Cultural Corridor
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 10
— Edmonds Marsh Restoration
— Zero Waste/Food Waste
— Visitors' Mobile App
— Wastewater Treatment Plant Education
— Stella's Landing opportunities
— Playful City
— Edmonds Cemetery Mapping
— Sea Level Rise
— Green Business Program
— Walkability Assessment
o Critical Areas Code Updates
■ Regulations prepared and implemented to better protect:
— Wetlands
— Fish & wildlife habitat
— Frequently flooded areas
— Geologically hazardous areas
o Shoreline Management Program
■ Prepared SMP & SMP amendments - to meet state requirements & local needs for healthy
multi-purpose shorelines
o FEMA Flood Plain Mapping
• Coordination with FEMA
• Public information
• Plans & practices to reduce flood impacts
o HWY 99 Area Plan/Code
• More opportunities for transit -oriented development & mixed use
■ Improved design standards to enhance pedestrian safety and mobility
• Identification of street improvements for multi- modal projects
■ Requirements for electric vehicle charging
o Complete Streets Ordinance
■ Adoption in 2011 by Council to require City departments to:
- Plan, design, & construct streets with appropriate accommodation for pedestrians of
all ages/ abilities, & for bicycles & transit
o Building Code Updates
■ Energy efficiency
■ Reduction of flood impacts
■ Fire safety
■ Building Resiliency
o Work on Urban Forest Management Plan
• Manage trees & tree care for healthy urban forest
■ Last draft in November 2018
• Revised draft in early 2019
o Historic Preservation
M Support for Commission & Register
■ Implementation of preservation requirements
■ Website & other public information
o Support for Tree Board
■ Website
■ Consultant assistance
■ Goods & supplies
o Climate Protection
■ Support for Climate Protection Committee
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 11
■ Public education/awareness outreach
■ Activities related to Climate Goals Project (Resolution # 1369)
■ Support for city-wide programs, such as:
— Plastic bag ban
— Future initiatives
Public Works Director Phil Williams reviewed Public Works:
Alternative Fuel Fleet
o Between October of 2012 and January 2013 converted 15 police patrol cars and one street
department crew truck to Bi -fuel propane. At this time we already had 5 hybrid and 2 electric
cars. Since then we have added 2 more electric cars and converted 20 more work trucks to
propane. The departments that have these trucks are Street, Storm, Water, Sewer, Facilities,
and Parks. We now have a total of 36 propane and 9 hybrid/electric vehicles out of 118.
Ranging from large trucks to small cars. That's 38%!!
Facilities Energy Reductions
o Waste Water Treatment Plant CO2/Energy Reductions
■ Scada Live Power Usage allows WWTP staff to monitor energy usage in real time.
■ Graph of WWTP Electrical Consumption 2012-2017 compared to trend
■ 37% reduction of energy use between 2012-17.
o Facilities Electric Energy Savings Chart
2012 — 2017 ESCO Project Results — Electric/Gas
— 63% energy savings
Facilities: Additional Sustainability Efforts
o Compost collection at City Hall reduced City Hall garbage volume by 33%
o Use of bleach has been eliminated for regular usage in cleaning
o All new paint purchased is now sourced as zero VOC
o Replacement lighting converted to LED park bollards
o Seven new VFD's for HVAC equipment at public safety and library
o Continuous direct digital controls upgrades and commissioning citywide for HVAC equipment
efficiency
o Staff development — Sarah Brinkley (lead custodian) achieved her Sustainable Community
Steward Certificate from WSU-extension, Dan Housler and Larry Lafave achieved their Lead
Pain Restoration Certification in 2018
Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite reviewed Parks and Recreation:
• Green Practices
o Pesticide/ Herbicide Reduction
■ As part of our continued Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to landcare, Parks
staff is phasing out the use of the synthetic herbicide Roundup (active ingredient
Glyphosate) wherever possible, and replacing it with the organic herbicide Avenger (active
ingredient Citrus oil).
■ Parks continues to use in- house wood chips and leaf mulch for use in weed suppression
and soil building, further reducing the need for pesticides.
o Tree Canopy Enhancement
■ In keeping with the requirements of the Tree City USA certification, Parks plants three
trees for every tree that is removed.
■ More than 300 trees were planted in 2018 during the course of standard maintenance
activities
• Habitat Restoration
o More than 2.2 acres of parkland is currently under active restoration.
R Meadowdale Natural Area - 12,000 sq. ft. of invasive plant removal and native planting
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 12
■ Hutt Park — 10,000 sq. ft. of invasive plant removal and native planting
■ Yost Park — 8,000 sq. ft. of invasive plant removal and native planting
■ City Park — Forest: One acre of invasive plant removal and native planting
R City Park — Wetland: 5,000 sq. ft. of wetland enhancement and demonstration project
■ Edmonds Marsh — Maintenance in 10,000 sq. ft. of previously restored buffer including
planting, weeding, and mulching. Daylighting Willow Creek
■ Hickman Park — 4,000 sq. ft. of eroding hillside stabilized and planted with native plants
o Restoration activities include three phases — site preparation, planting, and maintenance — with
work being performed by Parks staff, contractors, and/or volunteers.
o EarthCorps' Puget Sound Stewards receive ongoing funding through the Parks Department to
manage a volunteer program in Edmonds.
o Approximately 16 Stewards are active in Edmonds, leading volunteer stewardship events at
Hutt Park, Yost Park, the Edmonds Marsh, and some areas of the waterfront.
• Litter & Waste Removal
o Parks department manages the removal of nearly 300 pounds of dog waste every week during
the summer.
o Parks working groups host volunteer cleanup events throughout the summer, which includes
work parties for private service groups, or larger events that are open to the public.
o The largest volunteer cleanup event of 2018 was held at Marina Beach in August, when nearly
80 volunteers joined Zero Waste and staff from the Discovery Programs to remove 125 pounds
of trash from the beach.
• Reducing Use of Combustible Fuel
o Parks continues to replace power tools that use gasoline with tools that run on battery power
for small jobs such as pruning.
• Environmental Education
o K-6 Education
■ Environmental education in the Parks department is provided through the Discovery
Programs, whose mission is to provide interpretive and environmental education
opportunities for the citizens of Edmonds, our school- age children and visitors to our parks
and beaches; and to promote stewardship of Puget Sound, its shorelines, and the
surrounding watershed.
■ During spring of 2018, more than 4,000 school -aged children participated in K-6 education
classes including the Discover the Forest, Spring Beach Ranger, and Nature Discovery
series
o Public Outreach
■ The Olympic Beach Visitor Station functions as the Discovery Program's summer
headquarters. Both staff and volunteers provide information and talks on conserving the
Puget Sound ecosystem to visitors on the Edmonds waterfront. More than 7,300 visitors of
all ages came through the facility in 2018.
o Watershed Education
or Discovery Programs staff coordinates the annual Watershed Fun Fair, which provides
exhibits, games, nature crafts and activities focused on preserving watershed health in
collaboration with staff from Public Works. Nearly 200 people attended the event in 2018.
o Rain Garden Education
• Discovery Programs staff led an October Rain Garden Tour and Information Session for
Edmonds residents to explore the process of designing, building and maintaining a rain
garden.
• Follow-up surveys are being conducted to see if the tour resulted in behavior change among
the 15 participants. The Program Coordinator also writes articles on rain gardens and other
residential watershed conservation issues for the City eNews throughout the year
• Capital Projects
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 13
o Waterfront Redevelopment: Removing creosote pier from Puget Sound, reintroducing beach
habitat
o Daylighting of Willow Creek
o ADA accessible playgrounds
o Civic Park: LID design
o Community Garden
Councilmember Buckshnis said the Meadowdale Pier was added to the Tier 1 list so the City can pursue
grant funds from WRIA 8.
Councilmember Tibbott referred to the 63% reduction in energy usage, asking whether that translated to
dollars saved and how those savings were being used. Mr. Williams answered it certainly resulted in dollar
savings, those projects pay off very quickly, for example lighting projects within five years. With regard to
how the savings are used, it reduces the WWTP's O&M which keep rates down by a modest amount and
reduces the annual O&M costs paid by the General Fund. The savings are not set aside for future energy
projects.
Councilmember Tibbott summarized the concept is to pay for the improvements with the expectation there
will be a reduction in O&M costs in the future. Mr. Williams said a lot of what drives the energy
improvements is a desire to reduce the City's carbon footprint and saving money is a side benefit. Some
projects, such as the propane conversions, are great investments; the City saves over $1.20/gallon on fuel
in propane powered vehicles. The cost of conversion was repaid in 24 months. Councilmember Tibbott
liked the use of Avenger instead of Roundup and asked if it was commercially available. Ms. Hite answered
the City purchases it commercially and it is probably available in hardware stores or online.
Councilmember Teitzel said one of the goals in Resolution 1389 to move to 100% clean energy for City -
owned buildings in 2019. He asked if there were plans to install more solar panels on City buildings to
achieve that goal. Mr. Williams said there are no plans for additional solar panels but the City will achieve
the goal in Resolution 1389 via the agreement with PUD. By paying a small premium each year,
approximately $20,000 in 2019, PUD guarantees the City a share of their green power projects so officially
all the electricity the City purchases in 2019 will be clean power.
Councilmember Teitzel referred to the solar panels installed on the Frances Anderson Center and asked
why that was not being pursued on other City owned building. Mr. Williams responded the grants went
away. There was a program to stimulate growth of solar technology; the project on Frances Anderson Center
went through a local non-profit solar cooperative that pursued the funding and the City hosted the equipment
on FAC which it has been functioning ever since and is net metered back into the system.
Councilmember Teitzel recognized Parks is transiting to battery -powered trimmers and chain saws and
asked if Public Works was doing the same, noting citizens have complained about the noise from trimmers
and blowers. Mr. Williams answered there has not been any effort to do that yet. Ms. Hite clarified not all
Parks' equipment has been converted because the larger equipment does not have the functionality; smaller
equipment such as pruners, etc. have been converted. Parks still has some gas powered blowers and are
considering propane -powered, but they are not yet commercially available. The most efficient battery
powered tools are the small hand-held items.
6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Joe Scordino, Edmonds, thanked the Council for the Marsh restoration presentation; however, the
presentation references the Willow Creek Daylighting project, but the City's website refers to it as the
Edmonds Marsh Daylighting. It is important that the name represent what the work will do; calling it
Willow Creek Daylighting project is a misnomer because both Willow Creek and Shellabarger Creek flow
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 14
into the marsh and then into Puget Sound. The work that will occur is more than daylighting, it will include
in -marsh work to improve the functions of marsh. He suggest using one name such as the Edmonds Marsh
Restoration project which would also be beneficial when applying for grant funds, making it clear this is
an estuary the City is trying to bring back, and that there are other benefits to the nearshore environment,
reestablishing natural estuarian process which he said should be referenced when this project is discussed
in the public. He and a large public component support the project, want it to succeed and move forward.
Regarding the issue of flooding, he has accompanied students at once a month for over 3V2 years at both
ends of Shellabarger Marsh and Edmonds Marsh, etc. One area that the analysis did not address was the
circulation patterns in the marsh. Invasive plants such as nightshade and canary grass are growing in the
fence that the State installed on both sides of the marsh and the sediment that builds up behind it changed
the circulation patterns and, in his view, causing flooding in Shellabarger Marsh. He has been present when
Shellabarger Creek is roaring following rainfall, but there is essentially no flow coming in under SR104
and the intersection is flooded. He suggested looking at the benefits of removing the fences to allow natural
circulation patterns in the marsh soon and not waiting until this project.
Kathleen Sears, Edmonds, commented it was exciting to hear all the things the City was doing to reduce
its carbon footprint and enhance the environment. With regard to the sustainability presentation, she
appreciated the City's efforts related to tree canopy enhancement. However, the majority of land in
Edmonds is private and she is heartsick when driving by recent developments and seeing all the vegetation
bulldozed. She referred to the recent clearing of property at 91" & 220"', woods she played in as a child.
More need to be done to get private citizens and developers to value the environment. With regard to the
Shannon & Wilson presentation, she was excited to see the daylighting and enhancement of the Edmonds
Marsh. She was disappointed to hear the City is already communicating with WSDOT on Alternative 4
which has 135 -foot buffers instead of the larger buffers in Alternative 3. She hoped the City would
education and encourage WSDOT to do the very best for the environment. Often in the past, the practice
has been to err on the side of development which has resulted in a serious environmental crisis.
Washington's governor is on board and championing the environment, providing an unparalleled
opportunity to increase the leverage and push for the greatest possible environmental benefit to this unique
estuary environment for future generations.
Rich Senderoff, Edmonds, referred to Agenda Item 9. 1, reiterating his August 2016 comments in favor of
the Council retaining responsibility for conducting quasi-judicial hearings, allowing more transparency for
citizens to appeal some land use decisions to the City Council. The Council is responsible for the
development code, meaning the Council is responsible for passing ordinances and legislation that affects
the development code, making it the Council's responsibility to provide oversight over the development
code. Whether a quasi-judicial hearing results in a change of the Hearing Examiner's decision, the fact that
it comes before the Council alerts the Council to the potential need for adjustments in the development code
to prevent loopholes. When the Council first voted to remove that responsibility in August 2016, it was
suggested that by removing it, the Council would actually be able to provide better support of citizens,
possibly help them take an appeal to Superior Court. He asked whether that had happened; he did not think
it would or that it had. When people take an appeal to Superior Court, it costs a lot and most land use
decisions require expert witnesses which are expensive. He is involved as an expert witness in a patent
consultancy in his field and he is not cheap. He urged the Council to consider the comments he made in
August 2016 in the tonight's discussion.
Jeanna Nand, Edmonds, referred to marsh restoration and raising the seawalls and how that affects
accessibility for the disabled at the shoreline. Her father is disabled and they have difficult navigating the
seawalls, going up and down the stairs. Everyone, including those with limited mobility, want to visit the
beach and she has noticed a lot of problems with accessibility at the beachfront. She was surprised the City
was certified Tree City USA. There has been a lot of discussion about the loss of old growth canopy and
clear cutting in Edmonds. She recognized Edmonds was under a lot of pressure from development and how
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 15
to accommodate longtime residents, new families, etc., and wanted to ensure City government was aware.
Her parents received very aggressive, threatening letters from a developer who was trying to bully them
into clear cutting trees on their own property because he thought it would impact his development. She is
an attorney and sent letters to the developer but wondered how longtime residents respond to pressure from
developers used to bullying people to get his/her way. She questioned how government addressed that,
recalling they reached out to the City planning department regarding the developer and there didn't seem
to be a lot engagement or resources. She, her family and others are concerned about keeping Edmonds
beautiful and green, and replanting does not make up for losing the old growth canopy.
Bea Wilson, Edmonds, thanked the City Council and the Task Force who has been working diligently to
bring things coming to fruition. She pointed out natural gas is not clean fuel, 80% is fracked and she urged
the City to do further research. Natural gas may be cheaper but there is a greener way to fuel vehicles. Mr.
Williams clarified vehicle are fueled with propane, not natural gas.
Mayor Earling declared a brief recess. He announced Agenda Item 9.1 would be postponed to a future
meeting.
REPORTS ON OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Council President Fraley-Monillas reported the Snohomish County Law and Justice Commission discussed
an interlocal with cities regarding community court. Edmonds is already looking at a monthly community
court with the judge on Hwy 99.
Councilmember Teitzel reported he will attend the Port Commission and Disability Board meetings next
week. The Disability Board will be considering a long-term care for a third individual and potentially
seeking a second opinion on the individual's condition to ensure it is medically necessary.
Councilmember Tibbott reported the Economic Development Commission reviewed their annual work
plan. They plan to bring forward their 4-5 top priorities to the Council for input. He looked forward to the
Affordable Housing Alliance meeting tomorrow.
Councilmember Mesaros reported in a presentation to the Seashore Transportation Forum by the Executive
Director of Metro, he announced Metro is the fastest growing transportation system in the country.
Community Transit, Pierce Transit and Sound Transit are all in the top ten for growth. He anticipated that
ridership would continue to grow as Sound Transit increases its footprint. He recalled Sound Transit's
presentation to the Council last week referenced about parking around Sound Transit sites. The presentation
to the Seashore Transportation Forum stated that is issue across the entire system and there was discussion
regarding the need to increase parking at transit centers.
Councilmember Mesaros reported SNO911 was created a year ago via the merger of SNOPAC and
SNOCOM. Effective January 1, 2019 SERS was merged into SN0911. Snohomish County voters approved
a bond issue in November for a new radio system; the current emergency response radio system is over 20
years old and parts are not available, etc. A contract has been signed with Motorola and SN0911's
administration of that contract is beginning. Snohomish County, who issued the bonds, set up an advisory
group of county officials and emergency responders to work with the SNO911 Board on how and when
funds will be distributed. He will continue as the vice chair of SN0911.
Councilmember Nelson reported he will be attending the Youth Commission meeting on February 6th.
Councilmember Buckshnis reported the Tree Board planned their 2019 schedule as well as budgetary items.
An Urban Forest Management Plan Task Force consisting of members from the Planning Board, a citizen,
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 16
herself, two Tree Board members, and a Public Works staff person will review the plan in an effort to
customize it to Edmonds. She assured citizens their voices have been heard.
Councilmember Buckshnis reported WRIA 8 reviewed a revised budget this year due to Snohomish
County's decision not to pay their $60,000 share of the interlocal cost share. WRIA 8 awarded the
Meadowdale Beach project $800,000 for design. With regard to the Puget Sound Partnership and Salmon
Recovery Council, she referred to a letter from the Tribes supporting the Governor's $1 B for Orca recovery.
8. ACTION ITEM
1. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN A SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH
DIET ZONE TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE WAYSIDE HORN PROJECT
Public Works Phil Williams reviewed:
• Introduction
o Two at -grade railroad crossings within Downtown Edmonds
■ Main St.
■ Dayton St.
o On-going locomotive noise
o — 45 daily train crossings (from Sound Transit, Amtrak, Freight / BNSF trains)
o Average daily traffic — 6,000 vehicles per day at both crossings (along with high non -motorized
transportation activity)
o Project goal
• Reduce noise pollution
o Design phase started with Quiet Zone Technologies (QZT) in Fall `15
o BNSF also had to complete improvements at Main St. RR crossing
o Aerial of Existing Conditions (Main Street)
■ Recently upgraded cantilevers by BNSF
■ Existing/new BNSF bungalow (signal cabinet) location
■ Existing service meter
o Aerial of Existing Conditions (Dayton Street)
■ Existing bungalow (signal cabinet)
■ Existing Cantilevers
• Proposed Conditions
o Installation of wayside horns / indicators at both crossings
o New conduit to be installed to complete connection to existing City service meters
o Installation of new light pole on NE corner of Main St. Crossing (for indicator)
o BNSF is completing other improvements (as part of WSDOT grant -funded project)
Upgraded existing cantilevers
New bungalow on NW corner of Main St. RR crossing
■ Additional pedestrian signage coming out of Ferry Terminal
o Drawing of Proposed Conditions (Main Street Crossing)
o Drawing of Proposed Conditions (Dayton Street Crossing)
• Budget
Task
Original
Current
Reason for Modification
Notes
Bud et
$48,225
Budget
Design Consultant
$39,841
Removal of public outreach
from QZT scope of work
Design City Staff
20,000
20,000
Project started
Fall' 15
ROW/Easements/Permits
18,199
18,199
Easements needed at
both crossings
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 17
BNSF Boring (Main St)
Unknown
112,097
Addition of various cabinet
BNSF has billed
upgrades a both RR crossings
$43,202 to date
Traffic Control
22,500
22,500
Assume $1,500 per
day (for 15
days)/BNSF flagger
required
Construction City staff
7,000
7,000
Pavers (as part of
1,000
1,000
Reinstall existing
restoration on south side
pavers (to be
Dayton St
completed by city
crews
Light pole installation
Not in scope of
17,172
New light pole to be installed on
(contractor task)
work
NE corner of Main St RR
crossing (replace existing) for
dual direction indicator and
slave cabinet
Main St Crossing
83,129
65,381
Large portion of directional
(contractor task)
boring already completed by
BNSF
Dayton St Crossing
57,777
106,188
Change to electrical service
(contractor task)
location (costs for directional
boring, trenching, junction
boxes..)/original plan was to
connect to Port electrical
service on SW corner of RR
crossing but couldn't be
achieved
10% Mgmt Reserve
14,091
18,865
(from contractor tasks
only)
TOTAL COST
$271,921 +
$458,223
BNSF Costs
• Remaining Schedule
o Final approval of contract w/ BNSF January 2019
o Start of construction by City's contractor February 2019
■ Duration of work 2 to 3 weeks
o Completion of contractor work March 2019
o BNSF final connection work TBD
• Action Items
o Authorize Mayor to sign a Supplemental Agreement with Quiet Zone Technologies in the
amount of $43,289.
o Authorize a first quarter 2019 budget amendment for $19,500 from the REET 126 Fund
Mr. Williams described how the indicator works; the train approaches from the north or south, the engineer
looks ahead to see a flashing orange X in the indicator. The X tells the engineer that the system is working
and they did not need to sound the horn. If something is wrong that suggests the system is not working
correctly, that X is not displayed and the engineer will need to sound the horn. The other option for the
engineer is to manually activate their train horn is if they see something like someone stuck on the tracks,
about to enter the tracks, etc.; the engineer is free to use the train horn for public safety. The horns have
been installed elsewhere in the system and dramatically reduced the number of times the engineer sounds
the train horn. He explained the horns are directional horns that point the noise where people need to hear
it at the crossing. That is not to say noise will not heard beyond but the footprint and decibel level will be
dramatically reduced.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 18
Councilmember Teitzel asked whether these horns have been installed anywhere in Washington. Mr.
Williams said there is one system in Washington on BNSF trackage; UP has a number of locations. This is
becoming not uncommon on major railroads. When Edmonds first began discussions with BNSF, they did
not have much experience with it in this region until a set was installed in Lakewood.
Councilmember Teitzel was concerned this would be a new thing for engineers to see as they are heading
north on the tracks. Worst case scenario the City will spend all this money and trains will sound their horns
anyway. He asked what training engineers would get to recognize this type of signal. Mr. Williams said
BNSF is well aware of the goal and the opportunity. The only thing BNSF will say is they will not commit
to not sounding the horn because if they feel it is necessary, they will. BNSF knows a large public
investment is being made that. He envisioned this was one of many things engineers have to be aware of.
Coming from a railroad family himself, he worked as a brakeman during college and his dad was an
engineer; engineers have a lot of things to think about when operating trains and this is just one more thing.
They already look for block signals on the track that indicates a train on the section of track ahead; this will
be one other indicator that says they do not need to sound the horn and he believed the engineers will
comply with it.
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN A SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT
WITH QUIET ZONE TECHNOLOGIES IN THE AMOUNT OF $43,289 AND TO AUTHORIZE A
FIRST QUARTER 2019 BUDGET AMENDMENT FOR $19,500 FROM THE REET 126 FUND.
Councilmember Johnson commented the discussion included the wayside horns and the quiet zone and she
asked Mr. Williams to clarify what this project is. Mr. Williams said it is a wayside horn installation. A
quiet zone is four -quadrant gates that block all lanes, another way to prevent train horn sounds. It is very
effective at public safety, controlling pedestrians as well as vehicles, but it is expensive. It would be very
difficult and expensive to do in these locations, particularly Main due to congestion, pedestrians, vehicles,
the parking lot, etc. BNSF estimated the cost at $1M per intersection. The wayside horns seemed to be a
much better bargain. Councilmember Johnson asked the initial allocation for this project. Mr. Williams
answered $350,000.
MOTION CARRIED (6-0-1), COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSON ABSTAINED.
9. STUDY ITEMS
1. LAND USE PERMIT DECISION-MAKING AND OUAS[-JUDICIAL PROCESS
Due to the late hour, this item was postponed to a future meeting.
2. UPDATE ON HIGHWAY 99 GATEWAY REVITALIZATION PROJECT
Transportation Engineer Bertrand Hauss introduced Lisa Reid, Project Manager, SCJ Alliance. Mr.
Hauss provided an introduction:
• $ l OM secured through Connecting Washington
• Project Started: fall 2017 (conceptual phase)
• Limits: 244`h St SW to 212st St SW (2.5 miles, 6 signalized intersections)
• Key regional non -motorized facilities
o Interurban Trail
o Future Sound Transit station (2024)
o Lynnwood Link
• Agencies involved
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 19
o Esperance (Snohomish County)
o Mountlake Terrace
o Lynnwood
o Edmonds
o WSDOT
o Community Transit
Ms. Reid recalled the previous presentation included crash history in this corridor including accidents in
two-way left turns. The solution to minimize those accidents is access management. She reviewed:
• Access Management Options
o Median Control
o Protected Left Turns
o Protected Dual Left Turns
■ 212" - SW - NB and SB
■ 220t'- SW - NB and SB
is 238" -SW -NB
o Driveway Revisions
■ Relocate to locations with median openings
■ Consolidate multiple driveways
■ Move further from intersections
■ Combine with adjacent parcels
• SR99 Cross Sections
o Existing Conditions
■ 100 foot right-of-way
■ 84 feet curb to curb
- 12 -foot 2 -way left turn lane
- 11 -foot lanes in each direction
- 14 -foot BAT lane
- -7 foot sidewalks
- Utilities behind sidewalk
o Proposed 15 foot median section
o Proposed Left Turn Section
o Proposed Dual Left Turn Section
o Drawings of specific intersections
■ 238th
• , 224th
■
220"
■
216"
■ 212"
o Median drawings
Interim Improvements
o Between 224th and 220th
* Highest crash history
■ Highest volumes
o Build for future improvements, stripe to fit current tie-ins
o Drawing of interim improvement
Proiect Costs ($M)
Segment Limits Roadway
Cost
Utility
Cost
Utility U/G Total Cost
Cost
1 244th to 238th Streets SW $19.4
$2.3
$8.3 $30.0
2 23 8th to 234th Streets SW $9.7
$1.3
$4.8 $15.8
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 20
3
234th to 228th Streets SW
$17.3
$2.3
$6.5
$26.0
4
228th to 224th Streets SW
$12.2
$1.7
$5.3
$19.3
5
224th to 220th Streets SW
$13.3
$2.8
$8.9
$25.0
6
220th to 216th Streets SW
$13.0
$1.7
$7.8
$22.5
7
216th to 212th Streets SW
$21.8 1
$2.8 1
$9.6 1
$34.2
TOTAL COSTS
$106.7 1
$14.9 1
$51.2 1
$172.8
Mr. Hauss explained the corridor was divided into segments and prioritized due to the total project cost;
15% or $20M is required for design and there are no grants available for that much. He reviewed:
• Public Outreach
o Process
Stakeholder Meetings
■ Public Meetings
■ Council/Committee Meetings
o Scoped Meetings
■ Jan 16th — Stakeholder Meeting #I
Jan 23rd — Parks, Planning, and Public Works Committee Meeting
Feb 20"' — City Council Meeting
■ Mar 7' — Public Open House
■ Mar 201h — City Council Meeting
• Sep 27th — Stakeholder Meeting #2
■ Oct 1 It' & 16th —Property Owner Meetings (total of four)
Funding
o Secured Funding
■ Connecting Washington (CWA)
— $1 M available in 2017 (=>—$500,000 remaining)
— $9M available in 2021 biennium
o Submitted Grants
■ STP - $2.5M (April 2018) — not selected
■ HSIP - $2M (April 2018) — not selected
Next Steps
o Attempt to move $1M of $9M remaining of Connecting Washington funding to 2019 to allow
design to move forward
o Apply for future Grants
• Interim Improvements
■ Full Improvements
o Look into temporary solutions to address key safety issue
X Installation of raised median/C-curb to restrict left turns
o Return to Council for Updates
Mayor Earling advised a request will be made to the legislature for an additional $1 M from the original
$ l OM to allow this work to continue.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said she has been working on this project for the last nine years. She
agreed 220th to 224" has the most accidents in the corridor, but the interim improvement does nothing for
people trying to cross Hwy 99 due to the lack of crosswalks between 238" and 228th. She did not agree with
starting with a vehicular improvement at 220' to 224th when pedestrians are being struck trying to cross the
highway. She asked about plans to get people across in a safe manner. She found it disturbing that there
was only $1M available for a $172M project. Mr. Hauss said when the subarea plan was developed, there
was potential for a HAWK signal for a mid -block crossing around 230' near the apartments on the east
side and the medical clinic on the west side. However, WSDOT was not in favor due to the long crossing
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 21
to cross 7 lanes and the speed limits. As an alternative, a project was identified to potentially add a traffic
signal at Hwy 99 and 234tH. Although not exactly mid -block between 220th and 238tH, it would potentially
be another pedestrian crossing at a signalized intersection. Hwy 99 is a state route so signals require
WSDOT approval; WSDOT has specific standards regarding the spacing between signals and certain
warrants must be met for a traffic signal such as sufficient vehicular volume and delay from cross streets,
pedestrian accidents, etc. A total of ten warrants must be met to install a traffic signal.
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TEITZEL TO
EXTEND FOR 15 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said she was tempted to start in the area between two 238th and 228tH
People are darting across the 7 lanes of traffic on Hwy 99 with or without crosswalks because there are bus
stops and apartments on both sides. She acknowledged accidents occurred between 220th and 224th but
pedestrians are being hit at the south end of the corridor. Mr. Hauss referred to crash diagrams of 238tH,
234tH, 230th. Council President Fraley-Monillas referred to the need for a mid -block crossing in the area
between 238' and 228th, particularly 230th. Mr. Hauss said certain requirements must be met for a HAWK
signal including pedestrian generators, pedestrian activity, schools, parks, supermarket, etc. A medical
clinic and apartments are not enough to convince WSDOT. Ms. Reid said a mid -block signal on a wide
street has to include access management or what happens is 1-2 cars stop and others do not see the
pedestrian and do not stop which is even more dangerous. Whatever solution is constructed must be a
complete solution so it does not introduce more conflicts for pedestrians. She summarized sometimes doing
too little can make a situation worse. Council President Fraley-Monillas requested a mid -block crossing be
considered.
Councilmember Buckshnis echoed Council President Fraley-Monillas' comments and asked about $51M
to underground utilities, preferring to spend that on pedestrian safety or an overpass. Although everyone
would like to have utilities undergrounded through Edmonds, the cost is exorbitant and could be used
elsewhere. Mr. Williams said the suggestion was not to spend $51M to underground power but there was
interest in doing that to improve aesthetics. The amount is simply to illustrate what it would cost and is not
a hard/fast recommendation. Councilmember Buckshnis referred to the artistic wraps that other cities use
on above -ground utility boxes.
Councilmember Nelson asked if the 172.8M cost was for the entire revitalization. Mr. Williams answered
yes. Councilmember Nelson suggested separating out the safety improvements and that temporary solutions
to address key safety which should be the number one priority and wait on aesthetics. Mr. Williams said
that has been studied. The City applied for and did not receive two grants that would have funded the first
section, 220" to 224th. The federal grant program changed dramatically in 2017, going from TIGER to
BUILD and changing the criteria. The City has applied several times on other projects and have not been
successful. To be successful, a jurisdiction needs over a 60% match. By contrast, when the City received a
$5M HSIP grant for 228th, there was no match; CMAQ federal grants for the roundabout and 212"/76 1h had
a 13.5% match.
Mr. Williams acknowledged this is a huge project and $10M is a great start. The City lobbied the legislature
for those funds prior to 2017 when the change occurred. The path forward to complete a project of this size
is fuzzier. The interim improvements could be as simple as C -curb to prevent left turns which could have
huge benefits at a low cost. The only downside is when the accidents decrease, grant funds related to safety
are harder to get. Councilmember Nelson commented this is the most dangerous roadway in City. Mr.
Williams agreed. Mr. Hauss offered to send the Council the detailed estimate Ms. Reid developed for the
major improvements.
COUNCILMEMBER MESAROS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER TIBBOTT TO
EXTEND FOR 5 MINUTES UNTIL 10:20 P.M. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 22
10. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Earling commented there was a great story in the Herald on Sunday about the Creative District that
referred to Edmonds as "Culture City." He provided Councilmembers a copy of the article.
Mayor Earling announced Edgar Martinez was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
11. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmember Teitzel said he had the pleasure of attend the celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King's
legacy at the Edmonds Center for the Arts, an event spearheaded by Donnie Griffin and other members of
the Edmonds Diversity Commission. It was an outstanding, very moving and spiritual presentation. He
looked forward to similar presentations in the future.
Councilmember Tibbott also attended the event at the ECA and found it incredibly inspiring.
Council President Fraley-Monillas reported she and Councilmembers Buckshnis and Nelson attended the
Edmonds-Woodway High School Martin Luther King Day assembly on Thursday. She was invited to attend
the Garfield High School Martin Luther King Day celebration, a fabulous presentation with wonderful
speakers.
Councilmember Mesaros reported Edmonds was third in Snohomish County with a 64% approval rate in
the radio replacement bond issue in November. Edmonds was followed by a 10' of 1% by Mountlake
Terrace in level of approval. Index was first but they have only 61 voters.
Councilmember Buckshnis announced she selected Cole Albaugh for the Youth Commission, a freshman
at Edmonds-Woodway High School who participates on LINK Crew. His most famous quote was, a kind
word goes a very long way. Councilmember Buckshnis urged everyone to spread kindness.
12. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING OR POTENTIAL LITIGATION
PER RCW 42.30.1I0(1)(1
This item was not needed.
13. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF MEETING IN
EXECUTIVE SESSION
This item was not needed.
14. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:20 p.m.
DA D O. EA LING, MAYOR PASSEY, CITY K
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 22, 2019
Page 23