Cmd042120EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL
VIRTUAL ONLINE MEETING
APPROVED MINUTES
April 21, 2020
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Mike Nelson, Mayor
Adrienne Fraley-Monillas, Council President
Kristiana Johnson, Councilmember
Luke Distelhorst, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
Vivian Olson, Councilmember
Susan Paine, Councilmember
Laura Johnson, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Zach Bauder, Student Representative
CALL TO ORDER/FLAG SALUTE
STAFF PRESENT
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Shane Hope, Development Services Director
Angie Feser, Parks, Rec. & Cultural Serv. Dir.
Shannon Burley, Deputy Parks & Recreation Dir.
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Scott Passey, City Clerk
The Edmonds City Council virtual online meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Nelson. The
meeting was opened with the flag salute.
2. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Councilmember K. Johnson read the City Council Land Acknowledge Statement: "We acknowledge the
original inhabitants of this place, the Sdohobsh (Snohomish) people and their successors the Tulalip
Tribes, who since time immemorial have hunted, fished, gathered, and taken care of these lands. We
respect their sovereignty, their right to self-determination, and we honor their sacred spiritual connection
with the land and water."
ROLL CALL
City Clerk Scott Passey called the roll. All elected officials were present, participating remotely..
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
PAINE, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
5. REPORT
SNOHOMISH HEALTH DISTRICT UPDATE
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 1
Council President Fraley-Monillas introduced Nancy Furness, Prevention Services Director, Snohomish
Health District, the second longest serving staff member at the Health District, commenting Ms. Furness
knows all there is to know about COVID-19. Ms. Furness reviewed:
■ COVID-19
o Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response
■ Situation continues to evolve, with guidance and information shifting accordingly.
■ First response on 1/20/20 when the first positive individual in the United States, a
Snohomish County resident.
■ Encourage following www.snohd.org/ncov20l9 and social medial channels (Facebook,
Twitter and Instagram) for latest information.
o Cases by Onset Date
■ Graph 1/16/20 - 4/14/20
o Cases by Status in Snohomish County (Home isolation, hospitalized, recovered, deceased,
and unknown)
Graph 3/ 5/20 - 4/ 16/20
o Cases by Race and Ethnicity - case rates per 100,000 (as of April 17, 2020)
■ Caucasian 85.1
in Asian 92.9
■ African American 157.1
■ American Indian/Alaska Native 165.1
■ Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander 197.3
■ Hispanic 206.6
o Positive vs. Negative Testing
■ Graph 2/29/20-4/13/20
■ New testing from Abbott with rapid results
o Key Priorities
■ Testing capacity
- Resources for case investigations & tracing
■ Long term care facilities
■ PPE availability and healthcare capacity
■ Mid and long range planning
■ Ongoing communications
- Translated materials & expanding outreach
• Moving Forward
o Continuing Essential Work
o Issuing birth and death certificates
o Tracking and responding to other communicable diseases like tuberculosis, whooping cough
& STDs.
o Supporting children's health needs
- Issuing WIC vouchers remotely
- Health screening via phone
o Inspecting food establishments, pools & spas, etc.
o Reviewing permit applications
o Providing refugee health screenings
o Responding to complaints and violations
• Ongoing Hepatitis A Outbreak
o 18 cases of Hep A identified in the county since December that are part of this ongoing
outbreak.
Almost all are experiencing homelessness or sheltering issues and have issues with drug
use
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 2
o Medical Reserve Corps volunteers and District staff provided four vaccination clinics for
high risk populations.
o About 1,500 informational postcards provided for distribution through the county`s point in
time homelessness count as well as cold weather and other shelters.
• Monitoring Budgets & Projections
0 2020 budget was balanced, with $16.75 million in revenues/expenditures.
o Current budget includes 113 full time equivalent positions, down from 125.9.
■ Most of decrease due to First Steps Child Health and WIC transitioning to community
provider later this year
o Graph of budget projections 2021-2026
• Preparing for Special Session(s)
o Additional funding is needed for state and local public health
■ Case investigations and contact tracing
■ Preparedness and planning
■ Communications and outreach
■ Opioid Impact Funds (fee paid by manufacturers of prescription opioid for every
prescriptions dispensed)
■ Increase capacity for monitoring and investigating communicable diseases and
responding to outbreaks
■ Increase capacity for monitoring the impacts and causes of chronic diseases
■ Continue to modernize public health
■ Implement, oversee and evaluate service delivery
• Implementing Our Strategic Plan
o Mission
• Spearhead efforts to protect, promote and advance the collective health of our community
o Goals
■ Reduce the rate of communicable disease and other notifiable conditions
■ Prevent or reduce chronic diseases and injuries
■ Provide high quality environmental health services
■ Improve maternal, child, and family health outcomes
■ Provide legally required vital records
■ Address ongoing, critical public health issues
■ Support increased access to medical, oral, and mental health care
■ Build a more sustainable organization
Stay in Touch
o Blog & Newsletters
■ Sign up for our blog, newsletters, alerts and more at www.snohd.org/NotifyMe
o Social Media
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram
Councilmember Buckshnis thanked Ms. Furness for the very balanced report that included numbers. She
referred to information available nationally regarding different cures and injections like plasma or malaria
drugs and asked the status of testing of potential cures. Ms. Furness said the Health District is following
the science the CDC is following; no cure has been identified yet.
Councilmember Buckshnis commented on people who want to open up the country and the governor's
presentation today about turning that dial slowly. She asked the Health District's opinion about opening
slowly or opening the gates. Ms. Furness said the District supports the governor's actions to be very safe
and keep people home and safe. For example at the Health District, many employees are working from
home and when they are required to go into the community for essential services, practice the 6-foot
social distancing. The Health District supports the same in the community. The message from public
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 3
health is to stay home and stay safe, echoing the governor's stance. The District is concerned if things
open up to too soon, there could be an increase and no one wants to backward.
Councilmember L. Johnson asked Ms. Furness to speak to the reasons for the disparity in how COVIC-19
is impacting communities of color and how that is being addressed. Ms. Furness said she did not know
the exact reasons although she has heard the results of that research. Part of the concern is access to care
and that individuals of certain ethnicities do not have the benefit of good health care coverage or the
social economic issues that prevent them from accessing medical care. If she learns more information, she
will provide it to Council President Fraley-Monillas.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said she chaired the Health District's budget committee for the last two
years; she asked Ms. Furness to explain the reduction of FTE with regard to the WIC program. Ms.
Furness explained the WIC (Women, Infants and Children) nutrition program has been in the Health
District since 2005. For many years it was sustainable financially because the District received enough
money from the Department of Health or the program. Over time it became 'less financially stable to the
point over the past few years it cost Health District a lot of money to keep the program going. With the
need to balance the budget due to a significant deficit in 2019, the District looked at programs that only
the Health District does and programs that are also being done in community. The WIC program was one
that that is being done by other agencies.
Ms. Furness explained the District began working with the Department of Health who is in the process of
giving the WIC program contract to Sea Mar Clinic, establishing a building space for the clinic and taking
over the District's case load. It was a financial decision with regard to providing a service that the District
can no longer afford to provide.
Council President Fraley-Monillas observed that will result in the loss of approximately 12 FTE, but most
were absorbed into vacant positions in the District and there were few layoffs. Ms. Furness said Sea Mar
wants employees to transition from the Health District's WIC clinic to their clinic so it is hoped there will
be minimal if any layoffs. Council President Fraley-Monillas said Ms. Furness plans to retire at the end of
July. She thanked Ms. Furness for her hard work, noting no one knows public health in Snohomish
County like she does.
Councilmember Distelhorst thanked Ms. Furness for her presentation and for the work the District has
been doing over the last 100 days. He inquired about the multiagency Safe Team that is working with
people experiencing homelessness. Ms. Furness said it is primarily through human services in Snohomish
County; the team goes out into encampments and other areas where people experiencing homelessness are
staying to determine what support they need, get people who are ill into care, determine what they need to
stay well, and address sanitation related to COVID-19 as well as the Hep A outbreak.
Councilmember Distelhorst referred to the District's midterm and long range planning and asked what
time periods those represent. Ms. Furness answered that is a moving target. Discussions began this week
to determine what it will take and what has to happen to get back to normal, open the doors, have
customers come in and have staff in office. It will depend on what the governor wants the community to
do; the governor's message today does not sound like things will open on May 4"'. The District is looking
every day at what needs to happen to get the agency back to normal and get the community back to the
new normal. It depends on the disease process and what happens to the number of cases as people start
getting back to normal activities.
Councilmember Paine thanked Ms. Furness and District staff for the work they are doing. She referred to
friends who live in retirement facilities and the fact those staff in those facilities are pressed for PPE. She
asked how PPE is distributed to care homes. Ms. Furness answered when this first started, the Department
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 4
of Health developed a tier level, tier 1 was hospitals and emergency medical services; long term care
facilities were a lower tier unless they had a case which put them at a higher level. It took a while to get
enough PPE and especially for long term care facilities. As things have opened up, there is more supply of
gowns, masks and gloves. The District put out a call to all long term care facilities and all agencies to
submit requests to emergency management for whatever supplies they needed and to determine their burn
rate (supplies they use on a daily or weekly basis). The District has been working closely with emergency
management; the District's auditorium has six tables of surgical masks packets available to long term
care, assisted living and other facilities. She summarized it is improving, but it is not 100% there yet.
Councilmember Paine said she had assumed there was a priority system with hospitals at the top of the
list.
Councilmember Paine relayed her understanding the Medial Reserve Corps was looking for volunteers.
Ms. Furness answered they are always looking for volunteers. They have been instrumental in giving
immunizations for the Hep A outbreak, staffing the drive -through testing clinics and working at the call
center. Councilmember Paine said the webpage indicates all the training has been canceled; she had heard
they need volunteers and that people can be trained as volunteers. Ms. Furness agreed regular trainings
are canceled at this time.
Councilmember Paine said she contacted the federal delegation and asked them to provide more money
and support for the public health system as it has proven to be absolutely necessary.
6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS [SUBMITTED TO PUBLICCOMMENTO&DMONDSWA.GOV)
See Attached.
7. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Buckshnis requested Item 7.8 be removed from the Consent Agenda and Councilmember
K. Johnson requested Item 7.1 be removed.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PAINE, TO
APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
The agenda items approved are as follows:
2. APPROVAL OF CLAIM, PAYROLL AND BENEFIT CHECKS, DIRECT DEPOSIT AND
WIRE PAYMENTS.
3. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIMS FOR DAMAGES BY USAA CASUALTY
INSURANCE COMPANY AND DOUG TAYLOR
4. FRANCES ANDERSON CENTER TENANT LEASE RATIFICATION
5. AWARD OF THE 2020 PAVEMENT PRESERVATION PROGRAM
6. AWARD OF THE PHASE 7 SEWERLINE REPLACEMENT PROJECT
7. ORDINANCE EXTENDING EFFECTIVE DATE FOR DEVELOPMENT PERMITS
THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY COVID-19 IMPACTS
9. FEBRUARY 2020 MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
8. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 5
ORDINANCE RETURNING LANGUAGE THAT HAD BEEN DELETED FROM ECC
6.60.035(previously Consent A enda Item 7.R
Councilmember Buckshnis advised this ordinance will restore the language in Section 6.60.035.0 "The
emergency operations board, which oversees and provides policy recommendation to the city council
during disaster and recovery periods and provides direction for the development and maintenance of the
emergency operations plan. The emergency operations board shall oversee the activities of and provide
direction to the emergency management committee during major emergencies and disasters. The
emergency operations board provides policy direction for disaster preparedness and mitigation. The
mayor shall serve as chair of the emergency operations board and the disaster coordinator shall serve as
vice -chair. The remaining membership of the emergency operations board shall be as designated in the
emergency operations plan." Councilmember Buckshnis summarized this will put the City in compliance
with the Comprehensive Emergency Plan.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PAINE, TO
APPROVE ORDINANCE NO. 4185, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS,
WASHINGTON, AMENDING SECTION 6.60.035 OF THE EDMONDS CITY CODE, ENTITLED
"EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION," TO RETURN LANGUAGE THAT HAD
BEEN DELETED REGARDING THE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS BOARD. MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF .APRIL I4 2020
(oreviously Consent Agenda_ Item 7.I
Councilmember K. Johnson requested the following correction:
• Top of Page 17: "Councilmember K. Johnson commented as a general rule, the Council did to
not take action on the same night that something was discussed."
COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO APPROVE THE CORRECTION TO THE APRIL 14, 2020 MINUTES. MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
DISTELHORST, TO APPROVE THE COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF APRIL 14,
2020 AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
9. ACTION ITEMS
FRANCES ANDERSON CENTER TENANT RELIEF PROGRAM
Deputy Parks & Recreation Director Shannon Burley reported she spent the last week researching the
Council's questions and connecting with each tenant. She reviewed:
• Background
o FAC home to 7 community serving businesses, many for 20+ years
• Main Street Kids
• Olympic Ballet
• Edmonds Montessori
• Sculptors Workshop
■ Sno-King Youth Club
■ Edmonds Senior Center
• Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation
5 of 7 tenants are non -profits, all selected for the programming and value they bring to the City's
community center
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 6
Tenant Lease Relief Resolution brought before Council Tuesday, April 14, 2020, staff requested
to verify with legal and the State Auditor's office that relief would not be considered a gift of
public funds
• Tenant Relief Request
0 6 of 7 tenants not able to operate due to stay at home order. Main Street Kids continues to
operate as an essential business.
o Council authorized a 60 day moratorium on evictions of small businesses and non -profits
o Mayor appealed to landlords to "find a way to work with tenants to weather this financial
storm" through open letter on March 27
o Staff believe it is unfair to charge rent to the tenants who are not legally allowed to use the
leased premises as intended during the "Stay Home Stay Healthy" order
o We, see great value in the services that these organizations provide to our citizens and feel this
is one way in which we are able to support their efforts to remain intact when this is over.
• State Auditor's Office
o "MRSC Coronavirus (COVID-19) Economic Impacts and Mitigation section under Rent
Deferrals for Local Government Tenants states the following:
■ A local agency, as a landlord, may also be able to provide for deferred rent during an
emergency if the specific facts warrant it. For example, if the facility in which the tenant's
business is located is closed due to the emergency, then suspending or deferring rent
would be an appropriate measure. From audit prospective, the City needs to document its
analysis and retain any supporting documentation of its decision for audit purposes."
• Legal Counsel Statement
o The SAO's response also recommended using the city's legal counsel. Mr. Taraday's has
stated:
• A city's use of public funds is presumed to be constitutional There is no gift of public
funds where the funds are used to carry out a fundamental purpose of government. The
city considers the tenants of the Francis Anderson Center to be its partners in that they
provide programming that the city wants to be able to offer to its citizens. Each of these
programs helps the city secure the health and welfare of its citizens, which is why these
tenants are allowed to rent space from the Frances Anderson Center in the first place.
Providing some rent relief to these tenants during this crisis, when they cannot use the
building, serves a fundamental purpose of government in that it helps ensure that these
programs survive the crisis and are still able to provide their respective programming
after the crisis is over.
■ These programs are certainly undergoing substantial hardship with or without the rent
relief. If lack of rent relief were to cause them to close permanently, in the future, the city
would either have to provide the programming on its own, which would be difficult to
establish and have ongoing operational burdens, or would have to deprive its citizens of
the benefits of such programming.
Tenant Status Update
o The Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation
■ 501(c)(3) non-profit
■ Leases a small art display space near entrance
x Space intended to provide public rotating artwork for viewing
■ Space is not being used as was intended
o Sculptor's Workshop
■ 501(c)(3) non-profit
■ Supported solely by their membership and bi-annual pottery sales
■ Not able to utilize the facility
o Olympic Ballet
■ Two parts to their business
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 7
— 501(c)(3) non-profit (large performances)
— School which serves 50 ballet students
• School funds the non-profit and pays the rent
■ Waived tuition for all students for April
Laid off all professional dancers and employees
■ Seeking several grant opportunities
■ Hopeful they can start the school back up their summer
■ If not able to start up this summer, not confident they can survive
■ Rent relief critical to making it through this time.
o Edmonds Montessori
■ Suspended classes in March
■ No new registration and over 60% immediately withdrew for the year
■ Applied for a PPP loan, Washington Small Business Grant and will apply for the EIDL if
more funds become available
■ Pandemic exempt from insurance reimbursement
■ Working on two specific plans
1. Without relief, seeking authorization to be considered essential business. Children
limited to 10 per class, temperatures taken at door and masks required on all students
and staff
2. With rent relief, no classes through the end of June with hopes to open their usual
summer program in July and August for summer session
■ UPDATE: Edmonds Montessori received a PPP loan; only requesting 50% rent relief
o Sno-King Youth Club
■ 501(c)(3) non-profit
* $165,000 in registration fees for spring (1,500 kids) need to refund
■ Registrants asked to consider donating fees
■ Critical to operate summer and fall programs without help
* Applied for PPP loan, have not heard if they will be receiving one
o Edmonds Senior Center
• 501(c)(3) non-profit
• Serving our most vulnerable residents
■ City of Edmonds allocated funds to assist the Senior Center
k Evaluating mutual agreement to cancel lease set to expire in September
o Main Street Kids
Ot Email received 4/14/20: We got approved for PPP loan. I'll be happy to continue paying
rent at 100% and continue operating and providing essential childcare to the community.
■ Tenant Relief Summary
Customer
Aril
May
June
July
August
Edmonds Arts Festival
608.80
608.80
608.80
608.80
608.80
Sculptor's Workshop
2,269.20
2,269.20
2,269.20
2,269.20
Olympic Ballet
5,211.17
5,211.17
4,604.72
4,604.72
4,604.72
Edmonds Montessori
2,358.90
1,179.45
1,179.45
1,179.45
1,179.45
Sno-King Youth Club
1,761.71
1,761.71
1,761.71
1,761.71
1,761.71
So Co Senior Center
890.25
890.25
890.25
890.25
890.25
Toddle Time Main Street Kids
Driftwood Players
200.00
200.00
200.00
200.00
Monthly Total
$10,830.83
$12,120.58
$11,514.13
$11,514.13
11,514.13
o Maximum Total: $57,493.80 (worst case scenario)
o Estimate based on need: $8,000/month
• Staff s Request
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 8
o Approval resolution authorizing staff to work with tenants to find solutions to help support
viability.
Council President Fraley-Monillas thanked Ms. Burley for all the work she has done and expressed her
support for the resolution.
Councilmember Olson thanked staff for the through research and answering the Council's questions. She
referred to her comment last week that with the moratorium in place on evictions, there was an
opportunity to treat this not as an emergency action but to be thorough and thoughtful in the process of
both equity and propriety for the greater community. She was confident based on Ms. Burley's input and
thanked the Edmonds School District for their historical approach to a similar situation. She was
comfortable this was the right way to proceed.
Councilmember K. Johnson observed if the Council passes this resolution, it appears the Council is giving
staff the authority not to require rent even though some organizations received PPP loans to cover 50% of
their rent. Ms. Burley said most who receive a PPP loan are working with an accountant to determine
exactly how the funds can be distributed. No more than 20% of the funds they receive may be allocated to
rent so it is not a one size fits all solution as each tenant has a different operating structure. The resolution
provides authority to work with each tenant to determine what type of relief the City could provide to help
them sustain during this situation. It is different for each tenant and it changes daily and as more loans
come through and the amount of relief the tenants need declines. She has provided the worst case scenario
but is hopeful each organization is able to obtain relief and will be able to pay more to remain in the
spaces they occupy.
Councilmember K. Johnson said she understood that from the presentation but the resolution does not
provide that flexibility. Next, she asked if the rent relief should go back to March 13 when the doors of
the Frances Anderson Center were locked and tenants no longer had access to the facility in their lease.
Ms. Burley said the reason the rent relief did not back to March was each tenant collected revenue for the
month of March and made their payments on March 1. She has heard from tenants that the challenge
began with April rent because they were unable to collect revenue for April.
With regard to the language in the resolution, City Attorney Jeff Taraday said as he listened to the
discussion, it occurred to him that some flexibility may need to be added to the resolution. There is some
flexibility in Section 4 regarding when the rent relief will cease. He referred to Section 1 that states, "The
City Council hereby releases the tenants..." and suggested changing "releases the tenants" to "authorizes
the administration to release" to provide additional flexibility.
Councilmember L. Johnson relayed she has heard rave reviews from a number of the tenants regarding
Ms. Burley's work on this. These businesses and non -profits have been in the Frances Anderson Center
for over a decade and are part of the fabric of the Edmonds community. They provide valuable services
and jobs in the community and closed to protect the community and slow the spread. As a small business
owner herself, she feels their pain, many are scrambling including some even looking at taking a second
mortgage on their homes. They are doing their part and this is one way the City can do theirs. Making
decisions looking at each business individually is fair and reasonable and she supported that approach.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
L. JOHNSON, TO APPROVE RESOLUTION NO. 1451, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EDMONDS, WASHINGTON, RELEASING CERTAIN OF THE
CITY'S TENANTS FROM HAVING TO MAKE RENT PAYMENTS TO THE CITY DURING
THE APPLICABILITY OF THE GOVERNOR'S "STAY HOME — STAY HEALTHY" ORDER.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 9
Councilmember Olson suggested authorizing staff to negotiate rent payments with the tenants instead of
the language Mr. Taraday provided. She said that better describes the intent of the resolution.
Council President Fraley-Monillas suggested Mr. Taraday revise the language in the resolution and place
it on next week's Consent Agenda. Ms. Burley said the tenants are holding their rent payments. It would
be helpful if she could at least share with them that the Council intends to more forward and authorize
staff to hold off on May 1 rent payments.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER K.
JOHNSON, TO AMEND SECTION 1 TO READ, "THE EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL HEREBY
AUTHORIZES THE ADMINISTRATION TO NEGOTIATE AND RELEASE THE TENANTS
LISTED IN SECTION 2."
Mr. Taraday clarified Section 1 would read, "The Edmonds City Council hereby releases authorizes the
administration to negotiate a release fnr the tenants listed in Section 2, below,..." Councilmember
Buckshnis agreed.
Councilmember Olson suggested "negotiate and/or release."
Councilmember Paine suggested adding "full" in front of "obligation."
Mr. Taraday read the combination of Councilmember Buckshnis' amendment and Councilmember
Olson's addition, "The Edmonds City Council hereby authorizes the administration to negotiate and/or
release the tenants listed in Section 2, below..." advising that did not work. He offered to return with a
revised version or the Council could hammer it out tonight. Mayor Nelson preferred to hammer it out
tonight.
Mr. Taraday suggested Section 1 read as follows: "The Edmonds City Council hereby authorizes the
administration to negotiate reductions and/or releases for the tenants listed in Section 2..."
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS WITHDREW THE AMENDMENT WITH THE
AGREEMENT OF THE SECOND.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
OLSON, TO AMEND THE MOTION SO THAT SECTION 1 READS AS STATED BY MR.
TARADAY ("THE EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL HEREBY AUTHORIZES THE
ADMINISTRATION TO NEGOTIATE REDUCTIONS AND/OR RELEASES FOR THE
TENANTS LISTED IN SECTION 2..."). AMENDMENT CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. RESOLUTION REQUESTING FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO IMPOSE A
MORATORIUM ON HOUSING COSTS RELATED TO COVID-19
Councilmember Distelhorst relayed there have been a couple of positive developments since the
resolution was drafted; they do not change the content of the resolution but bolster support. First,
Governor Inslee prohibited raises in rent through June 4"'. That is only six week away and as the
Snohomish Health District indicated, this will be a very, very long process for a lot of people and
businesses. The unemployment numbers in Snohomish County (included in the packet) are at
unprecedented levels. This new normal lends support to decision -makers for making their voices heard
regarding where they stand on these issues and to call for the governor's emergency powers to be used
beyond June 4"'. During today's news conference, the governor urged support of the most vulnerable and
to protect the ability for people to have safe housing.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 10
Second, Representative Jayapal is supporting a House bill that would cancel rent and mortgage payments
while also establishing a relief fund for landlords and mortgage holders to cover their losses. As the
Council did in the previous agenda item by providing relief for tenants at the Frances Anderson Center, it
seems appropriate for the Council to lend their voice beyond its tenants to local residents, landlords,
businesses and non -profits in calling for the appropriate officials at the state and federal levels to more
aggressively tackle the economic crisis stemming from this pandemic.
Council President Fraley-Monillas asked how the City would reach out to residential and commercial
landlords to ask them to consider halting rent increases during this health emergency. Councilmember
Distelhorst answered the City Council did not have the authority to do that, but should encourage the
governor to continue with what he has already proclaimed through June 4t". Council President Fraley-
Monillas said the Council may not have the authority to do it but the resolution states the Council is to
call on residential and commercial landlords to consider a halt on increases in rental payments during this
health emergency. She suggested amending the resolution to state how that would be accomplished such
as via a postcard, newspaper ad, etc. Councilmember Distelhorst said he was open to working with the
administration, the community services department and the new PIO officer regarding communication.
Council President Fraley-Monillas concluded the intent was to ask them to develop a plan.
Councilmember Distelhorst answered potentially, if they are willing.
Councilmember Buckshnis observed if the City is already under the governor's emergency plan, Section
1 did not apply or was the intent to make it more local. City Attorney Jeff Taraday answered, as
Councilmember Distelhorst pointed out, the governor's proclamation only extends through June 4"'. The
ask in Section 1 of the City's resolution calls on residential and commercial landlords to consider a halt
on increases during this health emergency which is broader than the June 41h date in the governor's
proclamation. For that reason he did not find Section 1 duplicated the governor's proclamation,
anticipating the City would not be anywhere near a normal economic state by June 4t". As it is unknown
whether the governor's proclamation will be extended, it would be appropriate to retain Section 1.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether the City should begin notifying people, observing June 4"' is
right around the corner. Mr. Taraday responded Sectionl does not create a binding obligation on behalf of
landlords in the City; it is a request that they work with their tenants. As far as how to get the word out, in
the absence of anything specific from the City Council, he said it would be left to the administration to
determine how to communicate this resolution. It could be done in same way that anything the Council
does is communicated such as publication, the City's website, this televised meeting, coverage on My
Edmonds News, etc. That may be enough, but if the administration wanted to take additional action, that
would be up to the administration to determine.
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to the language "during the health emergency," observing that meant
the duration of this resolution was as long as Mayor Nelson's emergency proclamation remained in place.
Mr. Taraday answered because Section 1 is just a request of landlords, even if Mayor Nelson were to
declare the emergency over on July 1 st for example, it does not preclude landlords from continuing to
work with their tenants if they know their tenants are suffering.
Councilmember Paine observed Section 1 was related to a halt on increases in rent payments and Section
2.A asked Governor Inslee to use emergency powers to impose a moratorium on all residential and
commercial rent payments. She asked if that was the intent. Councilmember Distelhorst answered it was.
Councilmember K. Johnson commented it is an advisory resolution to the state and federal government
but also states the desire for a moratorium. She had a hard time going that far. People can rely on the state
and federal governments to a certain extent but she was not sure the Council was in a position to
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page l l
recommend a moratorium on all rents due to the impact on property owners as well as tenants. After the
health crisis is over, the financial crisis may be longer lasting and may trigger a recession and inflation.
She was uncomfortable with making such a quick decision on something so important and complex and
was unable to support the resolution tonight.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
DISTELHORST, TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
EDMONDS, WASHINGTON, CALLING ON STATE AND FEDERAL OFFICIALS TO IMPOSE A
MORATORIUM ON RESIDENTIAL RENT PAYMENTS AND CERTAIN OTHER HOUSING
COSTS RELATED TO COVID-19 IMPACTS.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said she had no problem with the wording to use emergency powers to
impose a moratorium because the governor has already done that. The resolution is asking that he
continue that which is fair until the impacts of COVID-19 are clearer.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS, TO AMEND SECTION 3, TO REPLACE "REPRESENTATIVES PRAMILA
JAYAPAL" WITH "ALL WASHINGTON CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVES."
Council President Fraley-Monillas commented it would be good to ask all the representatives to support a
moratorium.
AMENDMENT CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember L. Johnson proposed an amendment to Section 3, similar to the Frances Anderson Center
tenants, instead of requesting full release from rent, it be on an as needed basis. She clarified the intent
was wording that recognized not paying rent was based on need.
Mr. Taraday said Section 3 already has a qualification, "such that no Edmonds resident who has lost
income or faces significant new costs due to COVID-19 should be required to pay mortgage during this
health emergency..."
Councilmember L. Johnson suggested striking "no renter in the nation shall be required to pay rent..."
Mr. Taraday suggested "...such that no Edmonds resident who has lost income or faces significant new
costs due to COVID-19 should be required to pay mortgage or rent during this health emergency or
accumulate additional debt for unpaid mortgage payments..." He said that would address both mortgage
and rent but limit it to the people who have lost income of face significant new costs.
COUNCILMEMBER L. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BUCKSHNIS, TO AMEND THE MOTION TO INCLUDE THE LANGUAGE STATED BY MR.
TARADAY (...SUCH THAT NO EDMONDS RESIDENT WHO HAS LOST INCOME OR FACES
SIGNIFICANT NEW COSTS DUE TO COVID-19 SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO PAY
MORTGAGE OR RENT DURING THIS HEALTH EMERGENCY OR ACCUMULATE
ADDITIONAL DEBT FOR UNPAID MORTGAGE PAYMENTS..." AMENDMENT CARRIED (6-
1), COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON VOTING NO.
Councilmember Olson asked what Councilmember K. Johnson did not like about "moratorium" and what
verbiage she would find acceptable. Councilmember K. Johnson said she did not have any proposed
verbiage as she had a problem with the whole concept. She has lived long enough that she has been
through several recessions and declines in the stock market that have significantly wiped out people's
fortunes, periods of high unemployment, and periods of high interest rates. This is one of the natural ebbs
and flows of the economy. COVID-19 is one thing but the economic impact can last a long time. To
simply state anyone impacted does not have to pay rent or mortgage seems to go against the American
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 12
principle of a capital system. She summarized she had a problem with this from a philosophical
standpoint. She found it difficult to put into words because she had only had the packet for four days. She
did not support the resolution.
Council President Fraley-Monillas reminded Councilmembers they can vote no if they do not like
something. The Council was having good, important debate and Councilmembers could vote yes or no.
Councilmember Olson suggested this may be another circumstance where it would behoove the Council
to wait a week before taking action. The governors' order is in place so it is not an emergency. She
suggested tabling this until next week when Councilmembers have had more time for review and
consideration so their vote is more thoughtful and vetted rather than forcing a vote when there is no
emergency.
Councilmember Distelhorst commented as Ms. Burley stated in the previous agenda item, these weeks
and days matter and it is important to remember this does not actually provide any relief or a moratorium.
It is a statement calling on federal representatives to act; they are currently making decisions and it was
important for the Council to lend its voice while those discussions were occurring.
Councilmember Olson commented when the Council does make a statement to the federal
representatives, it should be meaningful and represent the Council's best thought so they can rely on it
and it is not just the Council shooting from the hip.
Councilmember K. Johnson raised a point of order, commenting this should not have been on the agenda
as an action item. If it had been a study item, Councilmembers could discuss it and hear from constituents
and make a decision next week.
COUNCILMEMBER K. JOHNSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER OLSON, TO
BRING THIS BACK FOR ACTION OR CONTINUED DISCUSSION NEXT WEEK.
Councilmember Buckshnis raised a point of order, whether the motion was appropriate given there was a
motion was on the floor. City Clerk Scott Passey advised a motion to postpone to a date certain was
appropriate.
UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (4-3), COUNCILMEMBERS K. JOHNSON,
BUCKSHNIS, OLSON AND PAINE VOTING YES; AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRALEY-
MONILLAS AND COUNCILMEMBERS DISTELHORST AND L. JOHNSON VOTING NO.
Councilmember Paine asked the date certain. Mr. Passey answered the motion stated next week. Council
President Fraley-Monillas suggested waiting until Thursday's agenda -setting meeting to determine the
date as it impossible to say now if this would be on next week's agenda. Mr. Taraday advised when the
Council makes motion to postpone to a date certain, it takes away the Council President's authority to
schedule it on a different date. That item will be on next week's agenda; if that poses a problem, the
Council can address it at that time.
Councilmember Olson asked if there would be additional comment or discussion on this topic tonight.
Council President Fraley-Monillas advised there would not be.
10. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Nelson explained last Wednesday the City announced Sunset Avenue would be closed to vehicle
traffic beginning Friday, April 17" to protect pedestrians. In response to questions about that decision, he
reiterated why it was done, 1) there have been increasing crowds of people walking on Sunset and he
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 13
observed people walking in the street trying to abide by social distancing when cars are driving by, 2)
Sunset is a narrow road, 3) nicer weather will increase the number of people, 4) Sunset is already a
popular place for people, and 5) to encourage people to be physical active in a safe manner. Due to
COVID-19 and concern with pedestrians being hit by vehicles, it was decided to temporarily close Sunset
Avenue to vehicles. In response to questions about those with mobility issues, he advised additional
accessible parking has been provided near the entrance to the closure to provide more convenient parking.
Mayor Nelson referred to his announcement that he selected Acting Police Chief Jim Lawless as his
appointment to Police Chief subject to confirmation by the City Council. Due to COVID-19 and the
restrictions under the governor's OPMA waiver proclamation, the Council's confirmation cannot be
scheduled on the agenda as it does not fit the criteria of necessary and routine. The acting chief needs to
be reappointed every six months so that may need to be done.
I]. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmember Paine said she was excited about the numbers and the community's hard work. The City
has received emails about stopping all the restrictions but she assured those restrictions are what are
keeping people safe. While on a run last night near her house, she saw a huge community cocktail party
with people close together, noting that seemed unsafe. She understood there have been other instances
where people are meeting in groups in areas that are off limits. With the upcoming Farmer's Market, she
recommended everyone follow the rules that are intended to keep everyone safe. Until there is a vaccine,
people do not have the ability to get within other people's 6-foot bubble. She was hopeful the positive
momentum could keep going. She was excited to get outside and see friends but everyone must be
thoughtful about how they do it.
Councilmember Buckshnis echoed Councilmember Paine's comments, noting she has been to parties but
people are 6 feet apart. She referred to the February Monthly Financials on page 213 of the packet and the
book, "The Price of Government", that she found helpful during the recession. She assured the City has
got this and will come out great, noting an emergency crisis policy is being developed.
Councilmember Buckshnis reminded tomorrow is the 50t" anniversary of Earth Day. Many projects had
been planned by the Tree Board and the library and she urged people to plan something great for
tomorrow.
Councilmember L. Johnson commented locally as a state, as a nation and the whole world has come
together to fight this pandemic. What we are doing is necessary to save lives and to protect health. It is
not easy, it has taken a toll. Some are merely restless and others are seriously struggling. She encouraged
everyone to continue to do their part to protect the community so as not to undo the results of the
sacrifices that have been made so far. However, to those who are more than just restless and seriously
struggling with the effects of isolation or are in an unsafe situation, she encouraged them to reach out to a
loved one or neighbor for help or help a senior learn to connect via Facetime or Skype. If someone was in
an unsafe situation and unable to reach out, she recommended going to SnohomishCountyWA.gov where
there are crisis resources such as a suicide prevention hotline, veterans crisis hotline and domestic
violence services. She encouraged people to access the resources they needed to stay safe and to continue
to help the community stay safe.
Councilmember K. Johnson referred to an interesting email from the Association of Washington Cities
(AWC) that describes every city's COVID-19 vulnerability. Almost 9,000 people or 21% of Edmonds'
population is over age 65 and at risk. The good news is 96% of Edmonds' population has health
insurance, and only 4% are without health insurance. She echoed Councilmember Buckshnis' comments
about the 50"' anniversary of Earth Day, commenting she remembered the first Earth Day.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 14
Councilmember Olson echoed previous comments about recreating safety, measures taken on Sunset, and
the upcoming Farmers Market. She reminded citizens that restrictions at the state level could not be
reduced by the City during same period. When the mandate is lifted, it will be good to have plans in place
to go from no activity to safe activity. Completely staying home helped people realize how serious
COVID-19 is and learning what safe means in order to move toward safe activities in the future. She
hoped to work with administration to look at safe practices, citing Costco as a good example of 6-foot
distancing and limiting the number of people in a space. That same thing could be done in Edmonds; for
example, the entrance gate to the dog park could be used to limit the number of people, establish a
socially -distanced line, assign days of the week by alphabet to visit the park, etc. She urged the City to
start thinking about going from no access to safe access and safe use.
Councilmember Distelhorst thanked Councilmember Buckshnis and Councilmember K. Johnson for
mentioning Earth Day tomorrow. He did not remember the first Earth Day but it had been in place his
entire life; he was proud of that decision and that it would be part of future generations. Recognizing it
was diffICUlt to think about anything other than COVID-19, he reminded every decision has an
environmental impact. He suggested citizens come up with a few changes they can make in their lives to
create less waste or less stress on the environment. He hoped everyone was continuing to stay safe and
healthy. He appreciated Councilmember L. Johnson mentioning resources for people who need help.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said public health is still recommending social isolation; parties,
events and other gatherings are not good idea. Even if people are 6 feet apart, the virus transfers not only
from sneezing and coughing but just breathing. She encouraged people to stay socially isolated until
advised otherwise.
Council President Fraley-Monillas thanked Councilmember Distelhorst for his willingness to send a clear
message via the proposed resolution and thinking outside the box. She thanked Mayor Nelson for his
quick response to COVID-19 impacts. She serves on the Edmonds Chamber Board and they were thrilled
with the ability to start supporting business through their non-profit. She also heard from the Senior
Center how thrilled they were with the money that was given to their non-profit that will help seniors. She
was also contacted by the food bank who was very thankful for extra money to feed residents of
Edmonds.
Student Representative Bauder hoped everyone was doing well and staying safe.
12. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 8:46 p.m.
MICHAEL NELSON, MAYOR SCOTT PASSEY, CITY CLERK
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 15
Councilmember Olson echoed previous comments about recreating safety, measures taken on Sunset, and
the upcoming Farmers Market. She reminded citizens that restrictions at the state level could not be
reduced by the City during same period. When the mandate is lifted, it will be good to have plans in place
to go from no activity to safe activity. Completely staying home helped people realize how serious
COVID-19 is and learning what safe means in order to move toward safe activities in the future. She
hoped to work with administration to look at safe practices, citing Costco as a good example of 6-foot
distancing and limiting the number of people in a space. That same thing could be done in Edmonds; for
example, the entrance gate to the dog park could be used to limit the number of people, establish a
socially -distanced line, assign days of the week by alphabet to visit the park, etc. She urged the City to
start thinking about going from no access to safe access and safe use.
Councilmember Distelhorst thanked Councilmember Buckshnis and Councilmember K. Johnson for
mentioning Earth Day tomorrow. He did not remember the first Earth Day but it had been in place his
entire life; he was proud of that decision and that it would be part of future generations. Recognizing it
was difficult to think about anything other than COVID-19, he reminded every decision has an
environmental impact. He suggested citizens come up with a few changes they can make in their lives to
create less waste or less stress on the environment. He hoped everyone was continuing to stay safe and
healthy. He appreciated Councilmember L. Johnson mentioning resources for people who need help.
Council President Fraley-Monillas said public health is still recommending social isolation; parties,
events and other gatherings are not good idea. Even if people are 6 feet apart, the virus transfers not only
from sneezing and coughing but just breathing. She encouraged people to stay socially isolated until
advised otherwise.
Council President Fraley-Monillas thanked Councilmember Distelhorst for his willingness to send a clear
message via the proposed resolution and thinking outside the box. She thanked Mayor Nelson for his
quick response to COVID-19 impacts. She serves on the Edmonds Chamber Board and they were thrilled
with the ability to start supporting business through their non-profit. She also heard from the Senior
Center how thrilled they were with the money that was given to their non-profit that will help seniors. She
was also contacted by the food bank who was very thankful for extra money to feed residents of
Edmonds.
Student Representative Bauder hoped everyone was doing well and staying safe.
12. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 8:46 p.m.
r
r'
MICAAEL NELSON, MAYOR
SCOTT PASSEY, CITY C
Edmunds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 15
:; .,
s•.
ry
Public Comment submitted for 4/21/20
4/20/19 Christi Kreft, Subject: Setting Examples
I would like to encourage you, our elected leaders of the city council to lead by example. I am
perplexed how the Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson has asked us all to do our part including
private owners to provide rent relief if they can and here we find the city council that provides
our local leadership unable to find the same decency. The link below takes you directly to My
Edmonds News and the open letter posted March 27 httos:/Imyedmondsnews.com/2020/03/in-
an-open-letter-edmonds-mayor-asks-landlords-to-work-with-business-tenants/ Edmonds
Montessori is a long time renter at the Frances Anderson Center, I myself have been here 20
years. This is our community, and we support it. Our families live, work and send their children
to private and public schools here. We find ways to help throughout the year with food and toy
drives, donating to community events and while we may be a for profit business this is not a
high wealth endeavor. All businesses have a story- we are all struggling at this difficult time, no
one is unaffected. What I believe we all have in common is our desire to come out the other
side, most of us know it will take a substantial amount of time to rebuild to full capacity from the
pandemic. As local and state government officials are asking business owners to be patient,
show compassion, and do what is socially responsible. I would like the same in return. I value
the small businesses in Edmonds and appreciate the consideration. Christi Kreft Edmonds
Montessori 700 Main St. Room 121 and 126, Edmonds, Washington 98020
4/19/20 Joan Kenton, Subject: Wrongful closure of Sunset Avenue
I was completely shocked to learn that you chose to close Sunset Avenue to allow more people
to walk with safe social distancing. This is wrong and I am completely opposed to this
decision. You are completely discriminating against those who are not fully ambulatory!!! The
parking spots are full because this is the only public place to go near the waterfront and receive
the much needed calm and peace the waterfront provides. At this difficult time all you have
done is create more stress! Where do we go now if all we can do is sit in our car? Why not
temporarily lower the speed limit? Why not temporarily add more parking spaces? Your
practice of privilege and discrimination gives a whole different meaning to an "Edmonds kind of
day". Regards, Joan Kenton (Daily frequenter of Sunset Avenue)
4/18/20 Ken Reidy, Subject: Public Comment for April 21, 2020
Public Comment: On Monday March 23, 2020, less than 16 hours after the surprise Council
Meeting was called on Sunday Afternoon March 22nd, I emailed the email found below at the
bottom of these public comments. The new draft Ordinance included in the April 21, 2020 City
Council Agenda Packet includes reference to the ESCA, an organization that hasn't existed
since December of 2015. [Please appreciate, Ordinance No. 4177 updated the City's Code
defining the Emergency services coordinating agency (ESCA)" as a local government agency
created pursuant to Chapter 38.52 RCW that provides local emergency management functions
for the Edmonds area, including coordination between Edmonds and other agencies and
organizations for emergency preparedness and disaster response. That is a false statement
right in the body of Ordinance No. 4177! The ESCA does not currently provide such services
and hasn't since the end of 2015.] The new draft Ordinance included in the April 21, 2020 City
Council Agenda Packet returns language that includes "the disaster coordinator". Ordinance
No. 4177 renamed this position "the safety and disaster coordinator", so the new draft
Ordinance included in the April 21, 2020 City Council Agenda Packet will now be inconsistent
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 16
with Ordinance No. 4177. Please appreciate, Ordinance No. 4177 requires the mayor, or
president of the city council to cause any proclamation or order issued pursuant to the authority
of this chapter to be delivered electronically to all news media within the city. The City has
admitted that this was not done for the Modified Order adopted by City Council the evening of
March 24, 2020. Days after Ordinance No. 4177 was passed, it was violated by the mayor,
or president of the city council. Will anybody be held accountable? This whole mess has
been very unfortunate. Please make a motion to remove the "Ordinance returning language
that had been deleted from ECC 6.60.035" from the consent agenda this coming Tuesday
night. After doing so, please make a motion to amend the agenda to consider full repeal of
Ordinance No. 4177. Nobody answered my March 23rd question: Were all members of the
City Council aware of the CEMP and the ESF prior to your vote yesterday? As
Ordinance No. 4177 deleted a section of the Code that now all admit should not have been
deleted, I have to suspect Council was provided false, misleading, incomplete or inaccurate
information before Council's vote on March 22, 2020. City Council should never let decisions
stand after they become aware that Council was provided false, misleading, incomplete or
inaccurate information. If City Council is willing to do so, please think of the huge ramifications
of such conduct. Such conduct turns the legislative process on its head, rewarding those
who provided false, misleading, incomplete or inaccurate information. Why would any
Councilmember ever do so? Please repeal highly flawed Ordinance No. 4177
immediately. Thank you. The following is part of my public comment: Sent: Monday, March 23,
2020 5:58 AM To: Council@edmondswa.gov <Council@edmondswa.gov>; Michael Nelson
<michael.nelson(a,edmondswa.gav>; Jeff Taraday <jeff(r I hthouselawgrg p.com>; Passey,
Scott <scott. asse edmondswa. ov>
Subject: Ordinance No. 4177 To all, I follow City government very closely and I am very
confused as to what took place yesterday. Did Council pass an Emergency Ordinance or did
Council pass a public emergency ordinance necessary for the protection of the public health,
public safety, public property or the public peace? Do both require a public hearing with 60
days? I didn't hear any discussion of the need for a majority plus one vote, so I suspect this is
an Emergency Ordinance. ECC 6.60 says that the emergency management organization of the
city of Edmonds is created and shall consist of the following: A. The mayor, who shall be the
administrative head and have direct responsibility for the organization, administration and
operation of the emergency management organization for the city of Edmonds and direct
responsibility for the disaster operations of departments in the city; B. The disaster
coordinator, who shall be appointed by and be subject to the supervision of the mayor and who
shall be responsible for the administration and operation of the emergency management
organization, including the issuance of recommendations to the mayor on the amendment and
implementation of the emergency operations plan; C. The emergency operations board,
which oversees and provides policy recommendation to the city council during disaster and
recovery periods and provides direction for the development and maintenance of the emergency
operations plan. The emergency operations board shall oversee the activities of and provide
direction to the emergency management committee during major emergencies and disasters.
The emergency operations board provides policy direction for disaster preparedness and
mitigation. The mayor shall serve as chair of the emergency operations board and the disaster
coordinator shall serve as vice -chair. The remaining membership of the emergency operations
board shall be as designated in the emergency operations plan; D. The emergency
management committee, which provides staff support, direction and expertise in development
of the emergency operations plan and all supporting documents. The disaster coordinator shall
serve as chair of the committee. The emergency operations plan may also designate the ESCA
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 17
director as a co-chair of the committee. Other membership in the committee shall be as
designated in the emergency operations plan. [Ord. 3196 § 3, 1998]. When one clicks on the
link to the ESCA on the City's website - it takes you to a Texas webpage. Does the ESCA
exist? The April 18, 2017 City Council Meeting Minutes indicate that the City was transitioning
from the Emergency Services Coordinating Agency (ESCA) to Snohomish County Department
of Emergency Management (DEM). See more details in the P.S. Section at the bottom of this
email. Please inform the public who fills the following positions as of Friday March 20,
2020: - -
1. Disaster Coordinator
2. Emergency Operations Board
3. Emergency Management Committee
Thank you. There was much discussion that this hadn't been looked at in 22 years. In 2017,
Mayor Earling signed (undated) the City of Edmonds Comprehensive Emergency Management
Plan (CEMP) which was approved on April 18, 2017. The CEMP describes the basic strategies,
assumptions, objectives and operational protocols which will guide the City's emergency
management efforts through preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. To facilitate
effective operations, the City's CEMP utilizes an Emergency Support Function (ESF) approach.
Each ESF identifies the City Department primarily responsible for organizing response actions
related to that ESF, as well as support departments and agencies. The CEMP is a 265 page
document. Page 8 of the document indicates that Al Compaan discussed removal of references
to ESCA in October, 2016. 1 didn't hear any discussion of the CEMP yesterday. I also don't see
the CEMP discussed in the Agenda Packet for the March 24, 2020 City Council Meeting. I don't
see any discussion of the ESF in the Agenda Packet for the March 24, 2020 City Council
Meeting either. Were all members of the City Council aware of the CEMP and the ESF
prior to your vote yesterday? The CEMP clearly states that City of Edmonds Ordinance 2224
and Municipal Code 6.60 are part of the authorities and references used in the completion of the
2017 version of the City's CEMP. It appears this topic was looked at in detail in 2017. The
CEMP clearly states that the Mayor or his/her successor may proclaim special emergency
orders under Edmonds Municipal Code 6.60. Please clear this up so we know what is going
on. Is this an Emergency Ordinance? How does new Ordinance No. 4177 interact with the
CEMP? Does the CEMP now need to be updated? Does new Ordinance No. 4177 need to be
corrected to refer to the DEM rather than the ESCA? There may be additional questions and
items that need to be cleared up. Thank you for your efforts to deal with this very difficult
situation. I hope you find my questions and the information I provide helpful. Ken Reidy P.S.
Excerpt from City Council Meeting Minutes April 18, 2017: Police Chief Al Compaan
commented the City's Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP) is important to
the City operationally and it is a legally required document. The current version was adopted by
Council resolution December 15, 2015 as the City was transitioning from the Emergency
Services Coordinating Agency (ESCA) to Snohomish County Department of Emergency
Management (DEM). The City is required by state and federal law to maintain a current CEMP
as well as a Debris Management Plan. The updated version in the packet replaces all
references to ESCA with DEM as well as other minor edits made in coordination with DEM.
Regulations require the City review and update the plan every two years as well as do a
complete update every five years. Staff worked closely with DEM on the update who
complimented the City on an excellent plan that they considered a model. He offered to answer
any Council questions and recommended adopting the plans by resolution on next week's
Consent Agenda. Councilmember Nelson referred to the Emergency Support Function (ESF)
responsibility matrix which lists the City Council but does not identify any tasks. Chief Compaan
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 18
responded that was an oversight that will be corrected. Councilmember Buckshnis commented
she found the plan fascinating. She asked if there would be an training for the public. Chief
Compaan answered this document is primarily for City operations. DEM, Fire District 1 and he
have discussed providing emergency response/management training for the public such as
personal household responsibilities, having a communication plan in place, having basic
supplies, etc. Councilmember Buckshnis, asked if the plan will be on the City's website once it is
adopted. Chief Compaan answered yes. Councilmember Buckshnis referred to the Animal
Disaster Protection Plan which refers to livestock, poultry, horses and captive wildlife,
commenting Edmonds did not have livestock, horses or captive wildlife. Chief Compaan advised
there could be livestock. Council President Mesaros pointed out there are horses near the old
Woodway High School. Councilmember Buckshnis observed the format was consistent with
other cities. Chief Compaan agreed. He recognize Executive Assistant Caroline Thompson for
her assistance with the plan. It was the consensus of the Council to forward the resolution to the
Consent Agenda for approval next week.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
April 21, 2020
Page 19