Photo: Thanksgiving Evening

Saturday, November 30, 2019

Photo by Jan Hansen

As the sun was setting for a short time one could see Jupiter, Venus, and the moon. Jupiter set at 5:46 followed by Venus at 5:58. It was a beautiful Thanksgiving evening in Shoreline.

--Jan Hansen



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Turkey Day Fun Run at RB Saltwater Park Thursday morning

The volunteers who make it work

Text and photos by Wayne Pridemore

The annual Turkey Day Fun Run at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park on Thursday morning brought out a large crowd to kick off the holiday season. This year's theme was "space". The proceeds from sponsors benefited Shoreline Hopelink food bank and emergency service.

Teresa Pape, left, and Teresa Pascale.

Many volunteer workers are required to make the event safe, and make it run smoothly.


Selling t-shirts for the community association of Richmond Beach were left, Caroline Gugger, Suzanne Gugger, and Christie Quigley.

Tom Mailhot registered runners

Each runner was registered and given tickets for a drawing before the run. Tom Mailhot was one of many who worked this task.



As the sun came up on the beautiful day the crowd began to walk down the hill for the traditional group photo. The crowd continued to grow.



Many family and friend groups participated in the event. Here is a group of turkey heads, left is Trevor Pottorf of Houston Texas, Amy Gray, Lillian Murphy, Helen Murphy, Laura Pottorf of Houston Texas, and Barbara VanWormer. 

Don Wilson is the founder of the event
 

Don Wilson is the originator of our local turkey run. More than fourteen years ago Don and several runner friends would run at Saltwater Park each Thanksgiving day. 

Each year more people would join the annual event. Don was then approached by the Richmond Beach Community Association to make the run a part of the community's annul programs. Don Wilson now serves as the event's master of ceremony, photographer, and organizer. 

 

Don organizes the crowd for the annual photo.


And then they run!




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Shoreline resident will be running trains at MOHAI Saturday and Sunday

Dennis Terpstra with grandkids
Talia and Toren in 2015

Shoreline resident and model train enthusiast Dennis Terpstra will be running trains again at MOHAI on Saturday and Sunday with the 4d-NTrak NMRA Model Railroad club.

It is a great time to see model trains of different scales and to see the various historical items at MOHAI.

Saturday, November 30, 2019 
from 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday, December 1, 2019 
from 10 am – 5 pm

Visit a miniature wonderland as the Faye G. Allen Grand Atrium transforms into a festive model train show!

Fans of all ages can explore intricately detailed displays, learn about railroad history, and even meet the engineers behind the magic as the 4th division, Pacific Northwest Region of the National Model Railroad Association turns the museum’s atrium into a model railroad extravaganza to celebrate Greet the Season.

The MOHAI Model Train Show runs full steam ahead Friday through Sunday (November 29–December 1, 2019), 10am to 5pm.

MOHAI is located at 860 Terry Ave N, Seattle WA, 98109. 206-324-1126.

Cost: Included with museum admission / Free for MOHAI members



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Book review by Aarene Storms: I am Still Alive

I am Still Alive by Kate Alice Marshall

Jess divides her life into "before" and "after" as she narrates her tale.

BEFORE, while still recovering from the car crash that killed her mom, Jess goes to live with the father she barely recognizes: a survivalist with a dicey past.

AFTER, she is alone with only a dog for company in the remote Canadian wilderness. No shelter, no food, no weapons, no skills.

BEFORE, she wants to return to civilization.

AFTER, she wants to survive... and she wants revenge.

I remember reading Gary Paulsen's classic survival story Hatchet when it first came out in 1987, and being so frustrated when the main character did stupid stuff that nearly got him killed. I experienced the same kind of frustration with Jess in this book: she nearly dies in so many preventable ways!

And yet.

I read the whole book in two days. It's not a perfect story, but it certainly kept me turning pages.

Some cussing, some drinking, and a lot of blood and violence. Recommended for readers who enjoy suspense, survival, and for those willing to forgive a character for making dumb mistakes, ages 14 to adult.


The events may not have happened; still, the story is true. --R. Silvern

Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS astorms@kcls.org



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Single tickets now on sale for SMT's Miracle on 34th Street at the Shoreline Center

Miracle on 34th Street 
December 19 - 29, 2019
Shoreline Center Auditorium

Based on the beloved 1947 film, this 1963 Broadway hit by Meredith Wilson, creator of “Music Man,” comes to life on stage in this new holiday production. 

Filled with such beloved songs as “Pinecones and Hollyberries,” “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” and finally answering the question: Is Kris Kringle really Santa Claus? 

This heart-warming musical is pure family entertainment and the perfect present to fill everyone’s stocking.

Shoreline Center (auditorium) at the north end of the complex, 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline.




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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Bald eagle



Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter can be found under Features in the first column of the front page of the Shoreline Area News



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Are you ready for winter weather?

North City Business District - 15th NE
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


Pacific Northwest winters can bring rain, wind and power outages, cold and icy roads, and sometimes, snow flurries or epic snowstorms. Are you ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store?

Winter weather preparedness includes three simple steps:
  1. Build a kit. Create an emergency preparedness kit with at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water for your home, office and car.
  2. Make a plan and practice the plan with your family and those who depend on you.
  3. Stay informed. Pay attention to the forecast so you’re prepared. Know where to get more information and resources to prepare and cope.
Resources:

--King county emergency news



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Friday Afternoon at the Movies - 1pm at the Senior Center

Friday Afternoon at the Movies at the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center: December 6, 2019 at 1:00pm (note NEW time!) 

Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center and Scarecrow Video’s Silver Cinema Project partner to show some of the most beloved classics for all to enjoy again and again.

Casanova’s Big Night, is a 1954 American comedy film starring Bob Hope and Joan Fontaine, which is a spoof of swashbuckling historical adventure films. It was directed by Norman Z. McLeod.

Hope plays a tailor who impersonates Giacomo Casanova, the great lover. The film also stars Audrey Dalton, Basil Rathbone, Hugh Marlowe, John Carradine, Hope Emerson, Lon Chaney, Jr., Raymond Burr, Natalie Schafer, and Vincent Price (in a cameo appearance as the real Casanova).

The film runs 1 hour, 52 minutes.

The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center is located in the southern-most building of the Shoreline Center, 18560 1st Ave NE #1, 206-365-1536. 

Such a nice way to spend a Fall Friday afternoon with your sweetie or friends! Come, enjoy!



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The Death Disturbers - The Art and Mythos of Shoreline artist Mimi Sturman



The Death Disturbers - The Art and Mythos of Mimi Sturman

Dec 5, 2019 to Feb 1, 2020

Exhibition opens during First Thursday Art Walk - Pioneer Square, Seattle

Mimi Sturman is delighted to present her newest installation, Mortem Et Incommoda Quamplurima - the Death Disturbers.

Inhabiting Lynn Hanson Gallery, her installation depicts a future visit by three sisters from another planet who have arrived on earth to save humanity. These tall (up to 7 ft) entities have been constructed over the past year by felting Icelandic wool with a single needle to form these amazing creatures.
Colorful and exotic, be prepared to enter another time and place —and to discover their story, Additional artifacts will be available for viewing and purchase.

On Dec 14, 2019, a reception will be held at Lynn Hanson Gallery in which Mimi will discuss her artistic vision and this exhibit. Reception is 2 to 4pm - question/answer with the artist at 3pm.

The Gallery is located at 312 S Washington St, Seattle 98104, 206-960-2118.

Sturman had a previous exhibit at Shoreline City Hall. (see previous article)



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WeatherWatcher: Flurries possible, then we warm up

Dusting in Shoreline in 2010
Photo by Carl Dinse

There's been more talk of snow in the forecast for late Saturday evening and Sunday morning. This particular event is weak, offshore and is a bit too far south. In addition to the distant location of this weather system it also has a mild southwest flow off the Pacific ocean so it may warm the air up too quickly for anything but a couple of sprinkles.

There's a lot of cold and very dry air in place right now over the region. Most of the precipitation in this weather system will likely evaporate before it reaches the ground. At this time, for most areas north of Tacoma we are looking at a very slight chance of any precipitation. This means the chance of any rain or snow falling from the sky is very slim.

Bottom line: Our most likely scenario is just a dry, cloudy day with gradual warming by afternoon. In current forecast models there's a very slim chance that we will see some snow flakes falling from the sky Sunday morning. These forecasts often have a lot of uncertainty in them. There could be about a 0.05% chance of accumulating snow of about an inch. In the end though, this will be short lived in any case as we will get into the low-mid 40's by Sunday afternoon. Very small chances of rain remain in the forecast into Sunday evening.

Remainder of next week: We clear up again on Monday with sunny skies and high temperatures near 45°F, a clear Monday evening with lows dropping into the mid 30's. Tuesday clouds return with a slight chance of rain. For Tuesday evening through next Friday we maintain a chance of rain with high temperatures in the mid-upper 40's, and low temperatures in the mid-upper 30's.

November has been one of the driest Novembers on record. In Shoreline we average 6.63 inches of rain in November. This year we are at 1.34 inches of rain. We also averaged 1°F above average for the month, even with our current cold snap. There are some hints in longer range forecasts that we may start seeing a more typical, active weather pattern starting late next week or next weekend.

Daily average temperatures for November compared to 10 year average.
North Ridge/Echo Lake weather station.
Accumulated rainfall for November compared to 10 year average.
North Ridge/Echo Lake weather station.


For current weather conditions visit www.shorelineweather.com




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Cartoon: Post-Thanksgiving haze

Thursday, November 28, 2019




Yup, no Shoreline Area News today.
We will return to our regular programming after your 
Editor gets some sleep.

Thanks to Whitney Potter for expressing it so well!



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Thanksgiving: What's for dinner?

Photo by Jacob Metcalf


What are you having for dinner this Thanksgiving Day?

Pictured above is a roasted tofurky - a Thanksgiving main dish for vegans and vegetarians, made from flavored and molded tofu, stuffed with dressing.

Photo courtesy Santa Fe restaurant in Richmond Beach


How about tacos? This particular platter comes from the Santa Fe restaurant on Richmond Beach Road in Shoreline.

Turkey dinner at Lake Forest Bar and Grill

Traditional turkey dinner is still available at the Lake Forest Bar and Grill in Town Center on Thanksgiving Day from 12pm to 7pm. Call for dine in or take out 206-364-1261. Here's the menu.

I imagine that some of our Chinese and Korean eateries are open Thanksgiving as well.

And don't forget the Ronald Cafe Thanksgiving dinner.

Cook your own, buy out, or let someone else host - I hope you are all warm and well fed this Thanksgiving and that no one comes to blows over political discussions!

--DKH



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Black Friday marks the kick-off for extra DUI patrols

A police station on wheels
Photo courtesy WSP

This Friday, November 29th is the kick-off for the King County Holiday DUI Emphasis Patrols.

The Washington State Patrol, along with several other allied agencies, will have extra patrols out to remove suspected impaired drivers from the roadways in King County.

The Washington State Patrol has investigated 18 fatal collisions year to date with the majority caused by impaired drivers.

The Mobile Impaired Driving Unit (MIDU) will also be deployed in a central location for all law enforcement to use during this emphasis.

There will be processors on board along with a phlebotomist for search warrant blood draws if necessary.

This will allow for the suspected impaired drivers to be dropped off and allow law enforcement to return to patrol for additional impaired drivers.
                                         
The MIDU is a self-contained 36 foot motorhome that has been retrofitted as a mobile DUI processing center and incident command post.

The MIDU is equipped with three breath testing instruments, two temporary holding cells, three computer work stations, an incident command computer terminal, a dispatcher console with wireless access to WSP dispatch centers and a microwave downlink tower for real time broadcasts from WSP aircraft. This is a full service police station on wheels.

The Washington State Patrol would like to stress good choices through this holiday season and beyond. Have a plan and always drive sober!


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Choral Concert December 5 - by donation



Choral Concert: Arise


Join us on Thursday, December 5, 2019 at 7:30pm for an evening featuring our Shoreline Community College choirs. The venue is the First Lutheran Church of Richmond Beach, 18354 8th Ave NW, Shoreline 98177, popular with local choirs for its beautiful acoustics.

Cost: by donation.

Chamber Chorale and Shoreline Singers will be joining forces for a fall concert entitled "Arise" which features a range of moods, but is intended to uplift the individual and remind us that we are all of one people.

Featuring solos from the choirs, Djimbe, and Yuly Kopkin, Collaborative Pianist. Under the direction of Evan Norberg.

For additional details about the performance, check out this article about the event published in SCC’s The Ebbtide.

Chamber Chorale is a group of 30-40 singers that performs primarily Classical literature, often with orchestra. The Chamber Chorale tours every year and performs concerts at community venues in Fall and Spring quarters. During Winter quarter, chorale members serve as the opera chorus for our Opera Workshop productions held in the SCC Campus Theater.

Shoreline Singers is a classical ensemble made up of students with past choir experience. Styles range from renaissance to contemporary music, jazz, spirituals, and pop. 

Students continue their education with top notch voice instructors here at Shoreline Community College and explore advanced skills related to tone, resonance, blend, and balance while learning about the various styles.



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Shoreline Concert Band in concert December 3 - by donation


Join us for an evening of music on Tuesday, December 3, 2019 at 7:00pm in the Shorewood High School Performing Arts Center, 17300 Fremont Ave N, Shoreline 98133.

The Shoreline Community College Concert Band, under the direction of Darin Faul, will be performing a lively concert called, "To The Summit!" which will also feature The University of Washington Campus Band.

Donations are greatly appreciated! All donation proceeds will go to the Peggy O'Coyne Memorial Music Scholarship Fund which supports students taking music classes at Shoreline Community College.

Shoreline Concert Band is comprised of 40-60 musicians which include Shoreline Community College music students, as well as community members enrolled in the Continuing Education program of the college. 

The band plays a variety of high quality literature including many of the favorite band compositions of the past to original compositions written for the Shoreline Concert Band. The collective goal of this group is to provide enjoyable, high quality concerts for the community it serves. Directed by Darin Faul.



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Classifieds: Northshore Fire Request For Proposal

Northshore Fire Department invites proposals for contracted Fire District Legal Counsel services. Proposals are due to the Fire District Headquarters Office by 12:00pm on Thursday, December 12, 2019.

The Fire Department seeks services encompassing the traditional scope of work including legal counsel, opinions, litigation, consultation and coordination with special counsel. Attendance at a variety of meetings may be required, including staff meetings and Board of Fire Commissioner meetings as specified.

Please visit https://www.northshorefire.com/news/ to obtain the full request for proposal (RFP). If you have further questions, you may contact Acting Fire Chief Eric Magnuson at 425-354-1755 or e-mail emagnuson@northshorefire.com.



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Shoreline council agenda for December 2, 2019

Shoreline City Hall
Photo by Mike Remarcke

The December 2, 2019 Shoreline Council meeting has one study item. No decision will be made at the meeting.

Discussion of Ordinance No. 881 – 2019 Comprehensive Plan Annual Docket Amendments to the Shoreline Comprehensive Plan and Concurrent Rezone

The State Growth Management Act, chapter 36.70A RCW, limits review of proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendments (CPAs) to once a year with limited exceptions. The three under consideration are:

  1. Change the Land Use Designation from Medium Density Residential to Mixed- Use 2 and change the Zoning from Residential, 8 units/acre (R-8) to Community Business (CB) of Two Parcels at 1510 and 1517 NE 170th Street.
  2. Update Natural Environment Goal V by limiting greenhouse gas emissions to 1.5° C of global warming above pre-industrial levels.
  3. Amend Comprehensive Plan Policy LU2 to allow for professional offices in the R- 8 and R-12 zones. 


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The Stocking Stuffer Show at The Gallery at Town Center - through Dec 28



The Stocking Stuffer Show
November 12 – December 28, 2019
Small Business Saturday, November 30!


Shop your favorite local gallery on Saturday, November 30 from 12-5pm during Small Business Saturday. Take pART in your community and support the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council, your local not-for-profit arts organization.

The Gallery at Town Center has a large selection of handmade art items by Pacific Northwest artists, including jewelry, ceramics, glass, fiber, and wood. We are always on the lookout for new and interesting inventory. Stop by and discover our most recent finds.

On the walls will be 12”x12” (or smaller) paintings, mixed media, prints, and photography – the perfect gift size. Plus, boxes and bags are available for most small items helping to make your gift-wrapping a breeze.

Featured Local Artists: Carol Austin, Elsa Bouman, Jennie de Mello e Souza, Salyna Gracie, Lynne Greenup, Cheryl Hufnagel, A.C. Kandler, Angie Ketelhut, Sonya Lang, Jeanine Langerud, Beth MacLaren, Jennifer Munson, J. Magda Petrou, Sylvia Portillo, Gena Reebs, Rebecca Shelton and Shirley Shores.

Extended Holiday Hours:
  • Every Tuesday – Saturday, 12-5pm
  • Sundays, November 24 – December 22, 11am-4pm
  • Mondays, December 2, 9, 16, and 23, 11am-4pm

While at the gallery, you can sign up to become a member of the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council and save 10% on all of your gallery purchases throughout the year!

The Gallery at Town Center is a program of the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Arts Council and is located inside the Lake Forest Park Town Center on the lower level. 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155.

The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to cultivate creativity and inspire our community through the arts.



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Notes from Shoreline City Council Meeting November 25, 2019

Shoreline City Hall
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Shoreline City Council Meeting
November 25, 2019
Notes by Pam Cross

Mayor Hall called the meeting to order at 7:00pm
All Councilmember were present

Report of the City Manager Debbie Tarry

Saturday, Dec 7 at 9:00 or 10:45 enjoy Breakfast with Santa at Shoreline Senior Center. The entire family can enjoy breakfast, games and activities. Photo and gift bag are included in the price. Tickets required. Tickets are $17 for adults and $12 for kids. Call 206-801-2600

City Hall, Spartan Recreation Center, and Shoreline Pool with be closed on Thursday, Nov 28 and Friday Nov 29.

Happy Thanksgiving wishes to the Shoreline Community.

Council Reports

Councilmember Scully attended a Salmon Recovery meeting about coho salmon. Normally the numbers have been consistent but this year we had 10% of what we traditionally have had. We have seen this reduction over the past couple of years. The focus for this year is lake temperature and lake predation in looking for the cause. They are seeing an increase in both native and non-native predators and a slight increase in water temperature in Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish and Lake Union.

Councilmember McGlashan and other Councilmembers attended the National League of Cities Conference in San Antonio. He attended a class on regulations for AirBNBs. Lacking large hotels, Shoreline won’t see an impact on hotel taxes from AirBNBs but Shoreline should look at regulations sometime in the future.

Affordable housing was the main theme of the event. The National League of Cities has not taken a stand on climate change. The speaker was from Ohio where the average number tornados is 19 annually. This year there was one night when they had 15 tornados. The speaker stated that FEMA is not easy to work with and he recommended every community have a volunteer coordinator designated in staff available in the event of a natural disaster. Someone is needed to control all the volunteers and supplies that come in. Without someone in charge, the lack of coordination is a nightmare. This is something for the City Manager to look into.

Councilmember Roberts added that not only has the National League of Cities not taken a stand on climate change, but in the Presidential Task Force Committee report all references to climate change were removed from the original draft. The Energy Environment and Resource Committee that CM Roberts is on did pass a resolution in support of limiting global warming to 1.5°C (same as the proposed Amendment to our Comprehensive Plan) so there is some movement.

Deputy Mayor McConnell, who is on the The National League of Cities Board of Directors, missed a lot of workshops she wanted to attend because she had several board duties. She is finishing up her second term on the Board but we gained Victoria Woodards, mayor of Tacoma, and Andy Ryder, mayor of Lacey is serving another term, so Washington is well represented. DM McConnell is applying for the transportation committee.

One of the advantages of these conferences is the amount of information shared outside of the presentations. It is an opportunity to talk to other attendees about what what they are doing to address certain issues, what has worked and what hasn’t.

Mayor Hall thanked Senator Salomon and Representative Cindy Ryu who jointed Council to discuss our legislative priorities. Unfortunately Representative Lauren Davis was unable to attend.

Public Comment

Peter Bocek, architect from Seattle, spoke regarding 9(a) Townhouse Design Standards especially as respects mid-block properties

Jack Malek, Shoreline, planning commissioner, local realtor, also spoke regarding 9(a) Townhouse Standards focusing on moving this forward as quickly as possible

Erik Ekstrom Developer. Lake Forest Park, also spoke regarding 9(a) Townhouse Standards regarding mixed single family attached developments

Joseph Irons, Shoreline, spoke regarding Amendments 1 and 3 to the Comprehensive Plan asking the Council to find a way to make this work

Melissa Irons, Shoreline, spoke regarding Amendments 1 and 3 to the Comprehensive Plan, focusing on Amendment 3

The agenda was approved unanimously.
The Consent Calendar was adopted, without discussion, unanimously.

Discussion/Action items

Action Item 8(a)Adoption of Ordinance No. 872 – Amending the 2019-2020 Biennial Budget as Amended, According to the Mid-Biennium Budget Modification

This is the Main Motion

Sara Lane, Administrative Services Director

By law, Council is required to present a balanced budget. Shoreline, like most cities, adopts by ordinance expenditure appropriations ensuring adequate resources of revenues or fund balance to support those expenditures.

On November 18, 2019, Council moved and passed two motions to amend proposed Ordinance No. 872, as follows: (i) to increase appropriation from General Fund by $7,700 to prepare a Citywide Census Mailer, and (ii) eliminate the non-site specific comprehensive plan or development fee.

This is the Main Amendment for clarity in the following discussion.

Staff has one recommended amendment to the Main Amendment which provides options to reduce proposed amendments for future I-976 response. Because the ordinance includes only expenditures, it’s not clear what happened to the revenues. The staff recommendation is to add a spreadsheet showing resources as well as expenditures as an Exhibit to Ordinance 872.

Discussion

The recommended staff amendment needs clarification.

The chart is for explanatory reasons only.There is no impact if we don’t adopt it. It’s a way to quickly locate how money is being moved between expenditures and revenues. In the past a complete new budget was prepared each year so you could compare expenditures to revenues. Biennium budgeting was adopted last year. The online budget book will not be updated. So if we add an amendment changing expenditures, there is no way to see how that affects the revenues without looking through the staff reports. With this staff amendment, the information will be available.

I-976 just passed and that takes away $1.7M in revenue. If asked how can we show where we cut that out of our budget, the spreadsheet will provide the answer. We are planning to use fund balance and some grant revenue to continue to do some of the transportation projects so the impact of I-976 will be felt in future years instead of all at once.

Decision was to keep this as an advocacy tool but not adopt it as an amendment to the budget.

There is also a proposed amendment to reduce the amendment appropriations by $940,922 in order to create a one-time funding to address some of the impact of I-976. The list of proposed options for reductions can be attached to the amendment and used as a reference. For example, you can refer to “item 2a” instead of having to list the full project name when making future changes.

Discussion

At Council’s request, staff reviewed Exhibit D that was last discussed at the November 18th meeting.

Motion and second to approve proposed amendment that amends the Main Amendment (This motion is made to open allow proposed changes to this amendment).

Motion and second to strike 1 and 2 (snow equipment). Removing them from the list puts them back in the budget as expenditures - so we will purchase snow equipment.

This could be looked at as a $300k reaction to a one time snow event when we have so many tough decisions to make. If we don’t have snow next year, we still have maintenance expenses. Total is large in light of big budget cuts we may need to make next year

It is better to be prepared than not. People were impacted, some severely, by last year’s snow event. These weather related catastrophic events are increasing and we need to be prepared. We have learned that contract work for snow removal is not available. There is a lot of year-round utility to some of the equipment and it will last for years. It is a city’s responsibility to look out for the health and safety of the community. We have been patching things together for the last 12 years. It’s time to actually get some decent equipment.

Vote for this amendment to amend the Main Amendment striking 1 and 2 from Exhibit D, leaving them in budget as expenditures

Passes 7-2 with Mayor Hall and Councilmember Chang opposing

Oppose moving the Sound Transit appropriation from parks where it was supposed to go. With the failure of Prop 1, we need some money for parks.

Motion and second to strike #3 (parks) from main amendment

Discussion
  • “New money” from Sound Transit is put in General Fund (GF).
  • Ordinance 872 shows it as an expenditure, noting it is a transfer from GF 
  • Main Amendment leaves the money in GF in order to reduce expenditures (you can’t spend money you don’t have)
  • Proposed amendment leaves it in capital improvement plan (CIP), general budget policies section for parks
While in the GF, the money can be spent on anything. In the capital improvement plan, it can be allocated to parks. This parks amount is not appropriated to a particular park. It is not remediation. How it will be used will come back when we do the next CIP update.

Vote to strike #3 (parks) from main amendment and leave it in CIP for parks passes 4 to 3.

Now that Council has finished Amending the Main Amendment, they return to a vote for the Main Amendment itself, incorporating these new changes.

This motion is to adopt the Main Amendment and increase the amount of expenditure appropriations by the amounts of 1 (snow), 2 (snow) and 3 (parks).

Vote: Passes 6-1, with Councilmember Roberts opposing

Motion and second to direct city manager to make the changes just voted for. Passed unanimously.

Vote to adopt Main Motion Ordinance 872 as amended: Passes 6-1, with Mayor Hall opposing.


Study Item 9(a) Discussing Ordinance No. 871 – Amending Certain Sections of the Shoreline Development Code to Provide for Townhouse Design Standards

Staff report by Catie Lee, AICP, Associate Planner

The City has experienced increasing demand for the townhouse housing style since the adoption of the Mixed Use Residential (MUR) 35’ and 45’ zoning in the 185th and 145th Station Areas. The City’s current design standards for townhouses are better suited for apartment buildings than townhouses. While the increase in new townhouses constructed helps to expand housing choice within the city, it is important that these developments be appropriately designed to ensure both functional and desirable places to live.

The proposed design standards include planning commission recommendations for
  • outdoor space
  • landscaping
  • building design improvements in how townhouses look from the street.
  • site configuration and building orientation
    • Units next to the street to have the entry oriented to the street
    • Percentage of units to be facing the street dependent on lot size
The Planning Commission has recommended adoption of the proposed amendments in Ordinance No. 871.

Staff believes that the regulations proposed by staff to the Planning Commission on October 3, 2019, particularly regarding site configuration, are more reflective of the design standards contemplated with the adoption of the MUR zoning.

The detailed differences between the recommendations are outlined in the staff report available online, with pictures and lot designs.

Discussion

Shoreline currently has 195 units that are being reviewed. Will those all fall within the current code with flat walls and no setback etc? Yes, they will fall under the current code. Then we need to move as fast as we can if we want our city to look they way we want it.

It would be helpful to have a chart showing the differences between the recommendations of the planning commission and staff in a simple form for discussion purposes. The detail is important, but when reviewing it’s nice to have something concise so we can quickly identify the key differences.

The configuration and building orientation define the number of units that can be built on the site and therefore the profitability of the development.

Question: How many lots do we have that are less than 70’ in width in the 145th and 185th station areas? 
Answer: There’s no simple way to determine that but it appears it’s going to be most of the lots are platted for 60’ width. 
If we can verify that without too much additional work, it makes the decision of site configuration and building orientation crucial.

On a 60’ width, there is room for only one front facing unit. The percentage of front facing units being proposed is 30% or 40%. Using 30%, you would be limited to three units.

Front facing units is important to the community. There have been some suggestions to offer 25%. Question: Any idea what kind of effect this would have? 
Answer: It would allow a single row of five or six units. This will not be attractive to a developer who planned on five units, and it’s not the appearance we are looking for.

Do we want to maximize every piece of property? Other options would be skinnier units, or assembling lots. We don’t want every lot to be a townhouse development. The zoning is mixed-use so it would be nice to have some retail or apartments mixed in.

Question: Is there any flexibility in the site configuration? 
Answer: There is an administrative design review process for everything except the landscaping. If you have a unique lot that is an odd shape or is really deep or is really narrow, you can apply for an administrative design review. This review process was developed for when you can’t meet the code regulations because of the lot configuration, but you’re still meeting the purposes of the code.

Question: What if there are developments on either side of a 60’ undeveloped lot? 
Answer: That would be a time to take it before the administrative design review. We don’t want a bunch of small lots left that cannot be developed.

The planning of these projects starts long before the application goes in. We need these changes in place ASAP because planning is based on development possibility. There are projects being pencilled out now. When changes to the regulations are finalized, applications for these pending projects may arrive before the regulations go into effect. If we don’t get these rules in place soon, we’ll be out of lots to apply these new regulations to.

Question: Other than townhouses, what can you do with property in MUR 35 and 45?
Answer: MUR 35 you can have single family detached, apartments and if you’re on an arterial you can add mixed use offices and retail. MUR 45 allows attached single family, apartments and more of the commercial use retail and offices.

From here, what would we like from staff:
  • It would be easier to have staff come back with two different amendments for Ordinance 871 - one for staff and one for the planning commission recommendations.
  • Or we could start with one amendment, and make changes to it similar to what we did for Ordinance 872. We need the least confusing approach.

Catie, who is making this staff presentation, pointed out that there are only two differences between the two proposals
  1. Site configuration. Staff’s Oct 3rd report stated 40% had to be in front of property and the Planning commission segmented it by # of units
  2. Dimensions of the required weather protection. Staff proposed a larger dimension that was scaled back by the planning commission
Another issue that might come into play is the open space requirement that greatly increases with more than 10 units. This may be an incentive to keep the lots smaller because there are fewer requirements on smaller projects. Not what Shoreline wants.

Decided to work from the planning commission proposal and then add amendments to it.

After discussion and review of the calendar, it was decided to bring this back on Jan 6th.


ITEM 9(b) Discussing the 2020 State Legislative Priorities

Presentation by Jim Hammond, Intergovernmental Program Manager

Brief overview of the 2020 state legislative agenda is very similar to last year’s. Hitting on some of the same themes but worded a little differently to highlight points of interest to Shoreline

Shoreline will be working with a new advocate Debra Munguia who has worked with several other cities across the State over the years.

Role of legislative priorities is to provide clear direction to city representatives and staff so we can be consistent with information about city priorities, and policy guidance in the dynamic legislative environment.

The 2020 legislative session is a 60-day “short” session. It is expected the recent passage of I-976 will play a major role, focusing on the significant financial impacts. And of course it is being challenged in the courts but the effects of the initiative will be addressed while we wait for the court decision.

There will be minor adjustments to the budget since we are mid-biennium. We will learn more next month when we hear from the governor about his budget and policy platform.

Shoreline-specific interests priorities (edit proposed by Councilmember Roberts)
  • Pursue state funding support for a non-motorized pedestrian/bike bridge to integrate connections to the Shoreline South/145th Street light rail station. But we will have to wait and see how I-976 plays out.
  • Maintain project visibility for the N 145th Street/I-5 Interchange as a strong candidate for any state transportation package.
  • Partner with State agencies to seek legislative action that supports City goals and the long-term vision of an approved Fircrest Master Development Plan.
  • Seek passage of legislation which would provide code cities the ability to annex unincorporated areas pursuant to a cooperative interlocal agreement.
    • This is a specific interest/priority because we told Woodway we would do this because we have the ability to and Woodway does not.
  • Restore transportation benefit district authority for Council, like vehicle license fees (addition proposed by Councilmember Roberts)
Shoreline broader policy interests
  • Pursue a comprehensive set of transportation policies that provide new financial resources and local funding options to cities and metropolitan planning organizations (edit proposed by Councilmember Roberts)
  • Preserve city fiscal health with secure funding sources including removal of the existing 1% property tax limitation or revise by indexing it to inflation, population growth, or some related indicator.
  • Continue to address homelessness and opportunities to increase affordable housing at the state and local level through incentives and support, while avoiding mandates.
  • Pursue the creation of a tax increment financing option for cities
  • Support legislation that addresses climate change impacts, specifically in the transportation sector and general budget policies
  • Continue to advance a watershed-based approach and strategic plan to address local fish-blocking culverts along with state culverts, and provide significant local funding.
Coming up:

January 28-29: AWC City Action Days

February 13: Mayor’s Exchange

Discussion

Comment: It would be nice to have something more specific.
Response: This is meant to be policy guidance to keep staff on task for what Shoreline wants. It’s not the work plan.

One other thing:

There was a comment pointing out that there is a flaw in the way state law works. If a jurisdiction adopts what turns out to be an illegal plan or regulation, and a project comes in and vests to it, and then a court throws that plan or regulation out, the vested project is allowed to continue.

Because it’s not facing Shoreline right now, we don’t need to list it as a specific priority but there are opportunities to continue to work on making sure that development is predictable and that the rules are predictable for everybody.

We are trying to keep the list focused and actionable but there are other big things that have been discussed throughout the year that we’ll be working on in Olympia, such as gun safety and tax reform issues. This list is provides guidelines to our legislative staff but it doesn’t mean we won’t be working on other things.

Brought forward on Consent Calendar.

Meeting adjourned 9:50pm



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LFP Planning Commission special meeting Dec 2 to continue discussion: Town Center, parking regulations, and land use

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

City Hall, Lake Forest Park
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Note: Meeting was originally scheduled for 12-3-19

City of Lake Forest Park Planning Commission Special Meeting Monday, December 2, 2019
City Hall, 17425 Ballinger Way NE, LFP

PROPOSED MEETING AGENDA

Old Business
  • Implementation of Town Center Vision
    • Structured Parking Regulations and Guidelines
    • Land Use Process, Pedestrian Access, Open Space Regulations and Guidelines
New Business
  • 2019-20 Work Plan

Current Commissioners

Chair:
  • Joel Paisner
Members:
  • T.J. Fudge 
  • Ira Gross
  • Steve Morris
  • Rachael Katz
  • Maddy Larson (Vice Chair)
  • Jon Lebo
  • Richard Saunders
  • Mark Withers
Links to Projects

Town Center Process
Town Center Vision
2015 Comprehensive Plan Update



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Shoreline Rotary to hear presentation from Richmond Beach winery

Virtue Cellers in Richmond Beach

Meeting starts at 7:00am with breakfast and camaraderie; formal program starts at 7:30am.

Vitality Malbec. Charisma Cabernet Sauvignon. Sincerity Syrah.
These are just some of the offerings of Virtue Cellars, the passion of Kevin and Kathryn Mueller, located right in Richmond Beach.

According to their website, “What started as a love of great wine, turned into an ambition for making it. At Virtue, we're proud of the wines we produce. They are a reflection of the great state of Washington, a legacy and a labor of love.”

The six-year old winery has already produced a Double-Gold Medal winner!? Virtue Cellars has a wine club - members enjoy 20% off on their purchases - and they also specialize in supplying wine for weddings and events.

Kevin Mueller will tell us all about Virtue Cellars and their focus on great wine.

Can you think of a better presentation for the holidays?! Bring your friends to hear about this wonderful local business!



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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: free range turkey




Thanksgiving is coming! Be ready to ride.



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Gothard Sisters play holiday show in Edmonds


The Gothard Sisters are a dynamic musical group of three sisters who play contemporary Celtic music and new arrangements of Christmas music. 

Blending Celtic, Christmas, folk, classical, world and northwest musical influences The Gothard Sisters bring songs to life with violin, acoustic guitar, mandolin, bodrhan, djembe, octave violin, whistle and vocal harmonies.

The sisters are Edmonds natives and have performed locally. They are very successful and now spend their time touring with world with their beautiful harmonies and energetic performances.

They will have one show at the Edmonds Center for the Arts on Thursday December 5, 2019 @ 7:30pm. Tickets are available here.




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Registration open for baseball and softball with Shoreline Little League


Registration is open for the 2020 Shoreline Little League Spring Season for baseball and softball. Sign up by December 31st to receive $10 off the registration price. 

Shoreline Little League endeavors to mentor our community's youth in developing the qualities of sportspersonship, discipline, teamwork, confidence and physical well-being. 

Learn more here.



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Photos with Black Santa in Shoreline – on Dec 1 and Dec 7


Free event - enjoy holiday cheer, crafts, treats, and photos with Black Santa!

Sun. Dec. 1, Noon-4pm at Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave. N.

Sat. Dec. 7, 3:00pm-6:00pm at Dale Turner Family YMCA, 19290 Aurora

Photos by AshleyKay Photography. Suggested photo donation $5-10. 

Bring donations for Hopelink:
  • new, unopened, unwrapped toys and games; 
  • new, unwrapped kids clothing; 
  • canned and dry pet food; 
  • baby items: size 3-6 diapers, wipes, formula; 
  • hygiene Items: toothpaste/toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, deodorant, razors, lotion, combs, brushes; 
  • paper items: toilet paper, paper towels, foil, zip-lock bags; and 
  • household and cleaning items: dish or dishwasher soap, laundry soap. 
 Contact blacklivesmattershoreline@gmail.com with any questions.



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Locally owned grocery stores open on Thanksgiving

If you need something last minute on Thanksgiving, our two locally owned stores will be open until 4pm.



Central Market - open 7am to 4pm
Current ad
You can still buy Thanksgiving dinner for 6-8 people, with leftover! but you should not wait.
Central Market is located at N 155th and Westminster Way, just west of Aurora. Facebook page.



Ballinger Thriftway - open 6am to 4pm

Ballinger Thriftway, is on Ballinger Way just east of the I-5 interchange.
Current ad

Judging by all the ads, most people run to the store to get cheese and cracker platters. Ballinger Thriftway has wonderful cheese and their Facebook page features the cheese of the week.



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Shoreline City Council incumbent McConnell has officially defeated challenger Chen

Doris McConnell retains her
Shoreline council seat

By Evan Smith

Incumbent Shoreline City Council member Doris McConnell has officially defeated challenger David Chen, according to final, certified results of the Nov. 5 election.

Those results, posted Tuesday, Nov. 26, show McConnell with 8,794 votes (50.93%), 391 votes ahead of Chen, who has 8,403 (48.67%), with 69 write-in votes (0.40%).

The McConnell lead is beyond recount range. State law requires a recount only if the difference between two candidates is less than 0.5 percent of the two-candidate total, in this case 86 votes.

In elections for the other two council positions on Shoreline city ballots, incumbents Keith Patrick Scully and Betsy Robertson easily defeated their challengers.

Scully defeated challenger Vivian Collica 11,427 votes (68.02%) to 5,317 votes (31.65%), with 55 write-in votes (0.33%).

Robertson defeated challenger Luis Berbesi 12,848 votes (76.99%) to 3,783 votes (22.67%). with 57 write-in votes (0.34%).


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Third Place Books: closed Thanksgiving, open Black Friday and Small Business Saturday

Third Place Books
Photo by Jerry Pickard
Third Place Books is closed on Thanksgiving.

Open Friday, November 29, 2019 
Black Friday!
Spend $50, and receive a $10 Gift Card!

Enjoy the best that your community has to offer, take advantage of our complimentary gift wrapping, and kick off your holiday shopping in style here at Third Place Books! We’re celebrating Black Friday all day long...without the lines or the stress.

Saturday, November 30
Indies First and Small Business Saturday!

Enjoy the best that your community has to offer, take advantage of our complimentary gift wrapping, and kick off your holiday shopping in style here at Third Place Books! We’re celebrating Small Business Saturday all day long. Spend $50, and receive a $10 Gift Card!



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Fire dog: Shoreline Fire assists lost dog that collided with vehicle

Delivering lost pup to owners
Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire

Tuesday, November 26, 2019, on a blind corner, a lost dog collided with a vehicle. 

A Shoreline Aid Car witnessed this and was able to assist the very concerned driver.

They brought the uninjured pup to the fire station to call the owner on the tag.

The owner was very relieved and all were excited with the reunion.

Great job Firefighters Mentzos and Etherington!

--Shoreline Fire



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Live and Local Saturday, November 30

There's a lot of live and local music to choose from each weekend. Most venues have food, some have dancing. Most have a cover charge and require reservations.

All have great local bands and entertainment!

This Saturday, November 30, 2019 here's what's happening:


DARRELL'S TAVERN

Ska Birthday Party, Mister Blank, Checkered Record, The Disorderlies - 9pm – 1am - $7 cover - 21+

Darrell's Tavern 18041 Aurora Ave N. 206-542-6688.

Heavy rock metal and punk bands at Shoreline's own Dive Bar. Live music, vintage decor, pizza, tacos, hotdogs, and free pool.

Darrell's usually has bands on Friday and Saturday, and Trivia / Taco Tuesdays


EASY MONKEY TAPHOUSE

Michael Good - $7 cover - 8 - 10pm

17537 15th Ave NE Suite B, Shoreline 98155
Call for Reservations: (206) 420-1326

A seasoned professional, Michael has decades of performing experience in numerous locations and venues throughout the Pacific Northwest. 
He is currently working on an upcoming album of original compositions at the renowned London Bridge Studio in Shoreline, WA.

“I believe it’s about the music- the love of music. Just so happens it’s on a guitar.

 The Taphouse has live music Wednesday through Saturday. They serve food.


Mark DuFresne
GRINDERS

Mark DuFresne - 8-10pm - $10 cover
Reservations highly recommended: call (206) 542-0627. And call if you can't make your reservations!

19811 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline 98133

Mark DuFresne is one of the most sought after Blues talents in the Northwest. The Washington Blues Society has awarded him for best vocalist, songwriter and harmonica more than any other artist. 

He has recorded three CD’s of all original music, toured Europe. His work on the chromatic harmonica is considered as some of the most innovative in Blues music. His ability to circular breathe has left audiences amazed.

Grinders is known for its huge (and delicious) hot sandwiches. Music every Saturday and sometimes Friday and (no cover charge) Sunday.


The Coastals
LAKE TRAIL TAPROOM
AT 192 BREWERY
7324 NE 175th St Ste F, Kenmore

The Coastals - no cover - 8pm to 11pm

A local Pop Punk Seattle Band, The Coastals, will take the stage at our Lake Trail Taproom for their first performance in Kenmore this Saturday Night.

Lake Trail Taproom has live music most Saturdays. They also have Taco Tuesday, Wednesday trivia, open mic Sunday.


NORTH CITY BISTRO and WINE SHOP

Adriana Giordano and Marina Albero $15 Cover - 8pm - 10:30pm - all ages
Reservations and Tickets required
North City Bistro and Wine Shop, 1520 NE 177th St, Shoreline 98155,

Call 206-365-4447 or go to website and fill out the simple reservation request form in order to secure seats for the show. Then buy your tickets here.

Giordano and Albero started playing music together around 2015. Their connection continued beyond the stage and their friendship opened an artistic space where their life stories could turn into songs. Brazil and Spain meet at a rhythmic crossroads with dance and song celebrating and empowering the Latin sisterhood.

The Bistro is owned by a jazz musician who has a huge network of musicians. Music every night, Tuesday to Saturday. A menu of Small Plates and an extensive wine collection.


Scratch Daddy plays the blues

THIRD PLACE COMMONS

Scratch Daddy - FREE and family friendly. 7:30 - 9:30pm

Third Place Commons Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way NE in Lake Forest Park.

Killer vocals and a 4-piece combo singing the blues and beyond with a little blend of Motown and rock edge sure to get your blood pumping.

Thanks to sponsor Merlone Geier, Third Place Commons has free music every Friday and Saturday. With a large stage, they are able to book both large bands and solo acts. People go there to dance to the music. Two restaurants in The Commons and three others in the rest of Town Center.



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Cora believed that if she posed here long enough, she'd become an icon

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler

She was that kind of cormorant.

(Spotted Cora, a Double-crested Cormorant, from the deck of the ferry the other day)

--Gloria Z Nagler



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