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Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Burglar in Lake Forest Park may have carried a rifle

Photo by Steven H. Robinson
On Friday, November 26, 2021, at approximately 6:30pm, Lake Forest Park Police officers responded to a theft of a motor vehicle that was parked in the driveway of a residence located in the 4700 block of NE 178 St. 

The theft had occurred nearly 36 hours prior to being discovered and reported.

Upon arrival, the officers were informed that the thief had also gained entry into the residence through an unlocked window and had possibly stolen some items.

During the investigation, security camera videos were checked, and it was determined that the suspect, a white male in his mid-20's or early 30's, was holding what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle.

During the weekend, patrol officers continued to investigate and gather more information regarding this case. A detective has been assigned to the investigation and some leads are being developed.

At this time, there is NO danger to the public and we would like to remind everybody to call 911 if you see something suspicious as it is occurring.

If you have any information call Det. Teschlog 206-364-8216 x532. Or email cteschlog@cityoflfp.com



Scene on the Sound: It was November and a mountain was out

Photo by Jan Hansen

It was November 5, 2021. The sun was shining. As if by magic, a mountain appeared over Puget Sound, highlighted by the sun.

Mt Washington is south of the Brothers. It doesn't get much recognition, but it is a beautiful mountain 6,255 ft. tall.



Holiday spirit returns to Cascadia Art Museum in Edmonds this December with vintage Christmas cards

1952 Charles W. Smith (1922-2009) image of a tired Santa

Vintage Christmas Cards by Northwest Artists, 1900s-1990s
Cascadia Art Museum
December 2, 2021 – January 9, 2022

Holiday spirit is returning to Cascadia Art Museum with our annual exhibition of vintage Christmas cards by noted Northwest artists and designers.

For most of the 20th century, regional artists created original works of art to send to their fellow artists, friends and families to celebrate the Holiday Season. The cards were created using an array of mediums such as woodcut and linoleum blocks; etching and drypoints; screenprints, as well as watercolor, oil, collage and other materials.


This collection includes examples by many familiar names as well as some creative individuals now forgotten by time. The earliest card is a 1909 watercolor by John Davidson Butler (1890-1976), given to his parents the same year he exhibited his paintings at the Alaska Yukon Pacific Exposition in Seattle. 

This card stands in sharp contrast to the unconventional and somewhat bizarre foldout produced by the iconoclastic Seattle architect Robert Reichert (1921-1996) nearly fifty years later. 

Many of the cards reflect the era in which they were created. Most notable is the 1952 Charles W. Smith (1922-2009) image of a tired Santa, resting in a Hardoy chair with a Calder-like mobile hanging from above.

A book featuring many of the cards from our collection is available in the Museum Store.
 
Cascadia Art Museum is an educational, nonprofit organization that celebrates the rich tradition of the visual arts and design in the Northwest during the period 1860-1970.

It is located at 190 Sunset Ave S , Edmonds, WA 98020. 
Open Thursday – Sunday: 11:00pm - 5:00pm. 



Case updates November 28, 2021

The Delta variant is still the biggest concern in WA.
The omicron variant has not been detected in 
Washington but UW researchers are watching for it.
Booster shots have been approved for all who are 18 and over. Contact your local pharmacy or clinic. 

COVID-19 Updates 

 

United States

  • Total cases 48,160,971 - 31,077 new     
  • Total deaths 776,703 - 104 new   

Washington state

  • Total confirmed cases 680,127  - 4,395 new     
  • Total hospitalizations 42,834  - 334 new     
  • Statewide ICU occupancy by COVID-19 patients - 19.0%
  • Total deaths 9,257  - 49 new   


Levels of Community Transmission:
based on the number of new cases per 100,000 residents in the past 7 days:

High: ≥ 100
Substantial: 50-99
Moderate: 10-49
Low: < 10

King county 
  • Total confirmed cases 162,816 -  1,027 new   
  • Total hospitalizations 8,798 -   47 new  
  • Total deaths 2,084 -  5 new   
  • Level of community transmission SUBSTANTIAL  

Seattle 
  • Total confirmed cases 40,246  -  328 new  
  • Total hospitalizations 1,867  -   12 new    
  • Total deaths 516  -   2 new
  • Level of community transmission SUBSTANTIAL  

Shoreline  
  • Total confirmed cases 3,559 - 23 new    
  • Total hospitalizations 247 -   1 new   
  • Total deaths 112 - 0 new
  • Level of community transmission: MODERATE 

Lake Forest Park 
  • Total confirmed cases 545 - 6 new   
  • Total hospitalizations 22 -    0 new
  • Total deaths 5  - 0 new
  • Level of community transmission: MODERATE

Best fiction and nonfiction of 2021 from the King County Library System

Best fiction of 2021
The King County Library System (KCLS) released its 2021 Best Books. The annual list reveals KCLS’ top 100 books of the year, and includes 25 titles in each of the following categories: fiction, nonfiction, children and teen.

Best Books are nominated by KCLS librarians and staff members across the System who, collectively, read thousands of books each year. A selection committee then reviews the submissions and determines the final list. The 386 nominations received this year span a range of genres and interests, from memoirs and world history to poetry, graphic novels and science fiction.

See the full fiction list here.
Best nonfiction books of 2021

“This year’s list represents a great selection of diverse titles and formats including several graphic novels," stated KCLS Director of Collection Management Services Tracey Thompson. "We hope you enjoy digging into some of our favorite books, and perhaps, discover a new one of your own!”

The full nonfiction list is here



Monday, November 29, 2021

Executive Constantine appoints Patti Cole-Tindall as interim King County Sheriff

Patti Cole-Tindall appointed as 
interim King County Sheriff
County Executive Dow Constantine has appointed Patti Cole-Tindall to serve as Interim King County Sheriff while the County conducts a nationwide recruitment process for a new Sheriff to be appointed in mid-2022. 

Executive Constantine also announced a new retention and recruitment bonus program for Sheriff’s officers.

Following the passage of a Charter Amendment in November 2020, the King County Sheriff’s Office is transitioning to an appointed, rather than elected, Sheriff. 

The Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC) has developed recommendations for the characteristics of the next Sheriff, focusing on a strong background in law enforcement, community leadership, and community partnerships; a reputation for integrity, honesty, and transparency; the ability to inspire and motivate change; and a commitment to equity, racial and social justice, and LGBTQ+ issues. 

“Patti’s background and experience in the Sheriff’s Office and across County government - working with labor, serving her community, and demonstrating integrity and transparency - make her uniquely qualified to step into this interim role. 

"She embodies the key qualities we’re looking for as we begin to rethink community safety, hire the next generation of officers and search for a newly appointed Sheriff,” said Executive Constantine. “I am confident she will ensure a smooth transition and provide strong leadership for Sheriff’s Office employees and the public.”

Cole-Tindall has a background in law enforcement, labor relations, human resources as well as service to the community. She joined the King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) in October 2015, serving as the Chief of Technical Services Division for almost five years before being appointed to Undersheriff, where she is responsible for day-to-day operations with the team of three Division Chiefs. 

She currently oversees the development and implementation of the KCSO strategic plan and the examination and strengthening of the KCSO complaint and use of force review processes.


Grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony marks opening of youth outreach center "Grounded"

L-R: Steve Ruiter, Treasurer of Shoreline Chamber, Dr. Tim C. Norton, President of the Shoreline Chamber, Erwin Weary and Darnesha Weary, Owners of Black Coffee Northwest, Diana Murru and Haben Haileslassie, Directors and youth leaders of Grounded, and Keith Scully Deputy Mayor of Shoreline.

On Saturday November 20, 2021, Black Coffee Northwest Grounded had their Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting ceremony with members of the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce and Deputy Mayor Keith Scully in attendance.

Grounded is a new youth community center, a youth leadership and development project of Black Coffee Northwest, 16743 Aurora Ave N in Shoreline. Their space is adjacent to the BCN.

Grounded, a registered 501(c)(3) has a mission to support the youth of the Shoreline area. They will be providing school supplies, like backpacks, and notebooks, pens and pencils.

There are good food options and beverages for after school, and a safe space for youth to come after school and get homework done, hang with friends and have the opportunities to learn and hear from other successful businesses in the area. 

Diana Murru and Haben Haileslassie are the Directors and youth leaders of Grounded.



Upcoming openings on Shoreline's Planning Commission

Shoreline City Hall and Council Chambers
Photo by Steven H. Robinson
The City of Shoreline invites interested individuals to apply for upcoming openings on the Planning Commission. 

City Council will appoint volunteers to serve four-year terms beginning April 2022. Candidates must live or own property in Shoreline and be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Community Service Applications are available at City Hall or from at shorelinewa.gov/plancom

Applications are due by Friday, January 7, 2022. You can email them to clk@shorelinewa.gov, mail them to City Clerk’s Office, 17500 Midvale Avenue N, Shoreline, WA 98133, or hand deliver them to the City Clerk’s Office on the first floor of City Hall (17500 Midvale Ave North).

Planning Commission

Citizens who serve on the Planning Commission provide recommendations to the City Council on land use, growth, and development issues. They review and provide recommendations regarding amendments to the Comprehensive Plan, development regulations, subarea plans, and major development proposals.

The Planning Commission hosts public workshops and hearings to gather public input about a wide range of land use matters. The elected City Council, the ultimate decision-making authority on these land use matters, relies on the Planning Commission to develop the record, reflecting both technical information and citizen input, and to provide a thoughtful recommendation for Council’s consideration.

Candidates should have a general interest in environmental, growth, and development issues but we do not require a technical background or experience in land use. Important qualifications are an ability to listen to and work well with others; a willingness to read background reports provided by City staff prior to the meetings; and a commitment to regular attendance and active participation at the meetings.

The Planning Commission meets virtually and, when appropriate, in the Council Chamber at Shoreline City Hall, on the first and third Thursdays of each month at 7:00pm.



Kenmore traffic stop turns into drug bust

Kenmore Police served a warrant on a vehicle following a recent traffic stop.

They seized nearly $4,000 in cash, a stolen handgun, over two pounds of meth, 134 grams of heroin, and 500+ pills. 

Charges for VUCSA, unlawful possession of a firearm, and possession of stolen property are pending.



Giving Tuesday - donate to your favorite social service agency

Giving Tuesday is the day of the year when all the social service agencies do their big "Ask" for donations.

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Most have started early, contacting people on their mailing lists and providing information on how to donate. They remind supporters of the work that they do, why it is so important, and how they will use the donations.

Some remind us of Smile.Amazon.com. If you make your Amazon purchases through Smile, you can designate an organization which will receive a portion of the money you spend. It's a very small amount but the more people who sign up, the more the contribution from Amazon.

If you do not receive a notice from a charity you like, just go to their website for information. We have many worthy local organizations that need your support.

--Diane Hettrick



Reception for retiring Shoreline Councilmembers on December 13

 

The City of Shoreline is holding a reception for Will Hall, Keith McGlashan, and Susan Chang, who are retiring at the end of their terms on the Shoreline City Council the last day of December.

Monday, December 13, 2021 from 5 - 6:30pm.

The reception will be held outside and under cover at City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination and masks are required. Light refreshments will be served. Questions - call 206-801-2214.



Photo collage: Fall trees in Shoreline


The colors have been wonderful this fall. There was such a variety of color and it lasted for so long. There are still some trees holding on to a fair number of their yellow leaves. And who knew we had so many maples in Shoreline?

Aerial photography by Jared Solano. Instagram @Juarez.Solano
And how about this shot with all our street trees?

Photographers:

Brenda Kent
Lee Lageschulte
Mike Remarcke
Cynthia Sheridan
Jo Simmons
Jared Solano
Janet Way



Bobblehead Hall of Fame releases the Russell Wilson


The Bobblehead Hall of Fame is honoring Russell Wilson on his birthday November 29 with his own bobblehead in the Framed Jersey sports series.

The new Framed Jersey series features some of sports' biggest stars and mascots with a replica of their jersey encased in a glass frame behind the bobblehead.

Wilson’s bobblehead features the star quarterback making a pass with his #3 Seahawks jersey encased in glass behind him.

The bobbleheads are available at this link: http://bit.ly/wilsonframed Each bobblehead is individually numbered to only 2,021. The bobbleheads are $40 each plus an $8 flat-rate shipping charge per order.

Russell Wilson was born on November 29, 1988, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and will turn 33 on the day of the bobblehead’s release. Wilson was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the 3rd round of the 2012 NFL Draft with the 75th overall pick. 

He’s played his entire 10-year career with the Seahawks, becoming a fan favorite. He led the Seahawks to the franchise’s only Super Bowl title in 2014 and has been selected to the Pro Bowl seven times including the last four seasons. 

He recently commented that he wants to play at least another 10 years in the NFL and own an NFL franchise when he retires.

"We’re excited to be releasing this awesome new bobblehead featuring one of the NFL’s biggest stars,” National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum co-founder and CEO Phil Sklar said. “Russell Wilson has been a legend both on and off the field and we think fans will love this new bobblehead.”

The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, located at 170 S. 1st. St. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, opened to the public on February 1, 2019. The HOF and Museum also produces high quality, customized bobbleheads for retail sale as well as organizations, individuals, and teams across the country.

The bobbleheads were produced by FOCO. 



Sunday, November 28, 2021

LFP bids farewell to Judge Linda Portnoy after 23 years on the bench

Judge Linda Portnoy retiring
from LFP bench
Judge Linda Portnoy has served as the presiding judge for Lake Forest Park Municipal Court since 1998, overseeing the operations and growth of the Court and creating one of the outstanding municipal courts in Washington. 

She retires on December 31, 2021 leaving behind a legacy of innovation and commitment to public service. For Judge Portnoy, the role of judge included reaching beyond the courtroom to improve access to justice for everyone impacted by the criminal justice system. 

In 2001, she started the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Youth Court, which is one of the longest running traffic youth courts in Washington. Through her involvement with the LFP Rotary, she helped found the Roger Bouck Rotacare Free Clinic in Lake City. 

When Judge Portnoy observed the ravages of the opioid crises firsthand in her court, she organized an evening educational program at Third Place Commons so people could better understand this addiction. She also enjoyed welcoming third grade students to her courtroom for their mock trials.

Judge Portnoy strived to incorporate innovative programs into the traditional courtroom to address challenging issues. Those included: “staggered sentencing,” a program targeting recidivist drunk drivers; a pretrial release program creating alternatives to bail; and a probation program incorporating social work and vocational counseling services into traditional court supervision. 

In 2013, Judge Portnoy created an award-winning program called TEC-Hearings, providing for traffic infraction hearings fully through the Court’s website and saving thousands of people a trip to court.

Judge Portnoy also worked to improve the justice system in Washington, serving on the statewide pattern forms and court rules committees, Council on Independent Courts and terms on the District and Municipal Court Judges Association (DMCJA) Board and the State Board for Judicial Administration. 

In 2018 she received the DMCJA Presidential Award. Judge Portnoy is proud of her work as a member of a 2011-2013 statewide task force on domestic violence where she worked on the passage of several laws aimed at protecting victims of domestic violence.

She was a featured teacher at the Washington State Judicial College and many statewide judicial conferences. Judge Portnoy’s publications include Washington Criminal Practice in Courts of Limited Jurisdiction; LexisNexis Practice Guide: Washington Criminal Law (co-author) and editor of the Washington State Judge’s Impaired Driving Bench Book.

Judge Portnoy was asked to reflect on her years of service as a judge.

“It has been my honor to serve the community. The executive and legislative branches have been outstanding partners, respecting judicial independence, and supporting our vision for the highest levels of accountability and service. 
"I have been blessed with wonderful administrators, court staff and work colleagues throughout my 23 years and it will be difficult to leave them. I have been honored to work alongside our probation officer, Phil Stanley; his contribution to our court is immeasurable. 
"I have appreciated the hard work and dedication of those practicing in court before me, including long-time prosecutors Sarah Roberts and Carmen McDonald, the public defenders who have handled the criminal caseload, and Jenny Grogan, the city’s DV advocate. 
"As a judge, I see many people at very low and difficult times in their lives. Countless times I have witnessed how people change their lives through courage and perseverance. Being part of people’s lives in my role as judge changed my life too. 
"I learned never to give up on anyone or to believe a person cannot change. Although words alone are not sufficient to express my feelings, I can say It was a privilege and a joy to serve as your judge."
The City invites people to write to Judge Portnoy.



Guess what a "Road Closed" sign means


Ok. This is a test. What does a "Road Closed" sign mean? 

Give up?


It means the road is closed.

There have been reports from Whatcom County Sunday afternoon of drivers needing help after driving past Road Closed signs and finding themselves in dangerous situations. 

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office says "Please do NOT drive on a road that has been closed. If the sign is still up, the road is still closed, even if there is no water."

This advice is good for all counties.



King County Search and Rescue: ready for winter

Training for a hoist rescue
The King County Sheriff's Office Air Support Unit (ASU) is a critical resource supporting both search and rescue efforts and public safety agencies throughout our region. 

ASU is comprised of four commissioned pilots and five helicopters based at the Renton Municipal Airport.
 
These photos capture a fall training exercise near the Bandera Airport in King County near I-90

With the assistance of the King County Search and Rescue Association (KCSARA) and King County Medic One, the team created different scenarios where a hoist rescue would be needed. 

Often winter rescues involve steep, snowy or icy terrain that makes a foot rescue very difficult. That's when our highly trained ASU members enter the picture for a hoist rescue.

Guardian Two is the Bell UH1 'Huey' helicopter captured here. 

With a maximum speed of 125 knots, and the capacity to carry a nine person crew, it is the helicopter most often used for regional SAR missions.

Take a look at that hilltop. 

If the dusting of snow is any indication we can expect King County Air Support, and other first responders, to have a busy winter season.
 
Visit this link for additional information and photos of the Sheriff's Office Air Support Unit.


Search and rescue officers train on quickly getting the injured person into the basket to be hoisted to the helicopter. Medic One personnel were also part of the training exercise.

--King County Sheriff's Office



Birds in the Backyard - or outside the window

 
Photo by Jan Hansen

Jan Hansen has a new friend outside her office window. Probably no bird says "Northwest" like this seagull.



Case updates November 26, 2021

The very contagious Delta variant
Booster shots have been approved for all over age 18. Contact your local pharmacy or clinic. 

COVID-19 Updates 

 

United States

  • Total cases 48,106,615 - 54,232 new     
  • Total deaths 776,070 - 534 new   


Letter to the Editor: Delay in Shoreline's code amendments means that more trees will be lost to development

To the Editor

Pursuant to the earlier letter published in SAN on Nov. 15, the next step for Tree Preservation Code Team (TPCT) proposed tree code amendments will happen on Thursday, December 2, 2021, where the Planning Commission will continue reviewing them. In the December 2 Staff Report, City Staff noted that it needs more time to study several of the TPCT proposed tree codes. TPCT feels the longer the review process takes, more of the pending permits will be issued under the current tree code, which will mean more trees are lost to development. For more details, open link, Dec. 2 meeting.

TPCT's proposed tree codes do not have drastic changes, and in fact do not apply to seven (7) zones in Shoreline where major construction is taking place (CB, MB, NB, TC1-2-3 and MUR-70’). On these 7 zones, developers can remove all trees and no tree replacements are required. TPCT's proposed tree codes apply only to construction on multi-family lots in residential zones known as subdivisions, and development on MUR-35 and MUR-45 zones.

Following the December 2 meeting, a public hearing will be scheduled by the Planning Commission in January 2022 and then proposed codes will proceed to the City Council for study sessions, public hearing and decision, currently calendared for February, 2022, subject to change. TPCT asks the Planning Commission and Council to “[m]ake timely and transparent decisions that respect community input.” (Framework Goal 11, the Comprehensive Plan) to avoid loss of more Shoreline trees.

Susanne Tsoming
Shoreline
Tree Preservation Code Team Member



Gloria's Birds: Didja ever feel like you've got a bug stuck in your throat?

Photo copyright Gloria Z Nagler

Photo copyright Gloria Z Nagler

Ptui! This warbler (I think it's a warbler...feel free to second guess:) did, and spit out a tiny fly. 

Happy ending all 'round; bird stopped choking and fly actually soared away, living to be swallowed another day!

--Gloria Z Nagler



Your power strips can kill you - learn how to use them

Power strips - graphic via Northshore Fire
Northshore Fire offers these important safety tips

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), over 3,300 home fires originate in extension cords and power strips each year, killing 50 and injuring 270 more. 

Your power strip can only draw so much electricity without getting overloaded. 

If you plug too many high powered things such as a space heater, microwave or another power strip that has multiple things plugged in (called “daisy-chaining”), it can overheat the power strip, or the wall outlet and cause a fire. 

Small devices such as phone chargers, TV’s, computers, lamps and radios are safe. 

The general rule is if the device can heat (coffee maker, toaster, microwave) or cool (air conditioner, fridge, freezer) then those appliances must plug directly into a wall socket.


Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services / Tree Board Meeting


Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services / Tree Board Meeting Thursday, December 2, 2021 from 7 - 9pm on Zoom https://zoom.us/j/97515984680

You may join the meeting via Zoom Webinar or listen to the meeting over the telephone.

Attend the Meeting via Zoom Webinar: https://zoom.us/j/97515984680
Call into the Live Meeting: 253-215-8782
Webinar ID: 975 1598 4680

Agenda Highlights:
  • Director's Report
  • Public Art and Municipal Art Fund Overview
  • City Financial Outlook

Scam alert from the Social Security Administration


If you receive a call, text, or email that...
  • Threatens to suspend your Social Security number, even if they have part or all of your Social Security number
  • Warns of arrest of legal action
  • Demands or requests immediate payment
  • Requires payment by gift card, prepaid debit card, internet currency, or by mailing cash
  • Pressures you for personal information
  • Requests secrecy
  • Threatens to seize your bank account
  • Promises to increase your Social Security benefit
  • Tries to gain your trust by providing fake "documentation," false "evidence," or the name of a real government official
...it is a SCAM!

Do not give scammers money or personal information – Ignore Them!

Protect yourself and others from Social Security-related scams
  • Try to stay calm. Do not provide anyone with money or personal information when you feel pressured, threatened, or scared.
  • Hang up or ignore it. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email, hang up or do not respond. Government employees will not threaten you, demand immediate payment, or try to gain your trust by sending you pictures or documents.
  • Report Social Security-related scams. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email that mentions Social Security, ignore it and report it to the SSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG). Do not be embarrassed if you shared personal information or suffered a financial loss.
  • Get up-to-date information. Follow SSA OIG on Twitter @TheSSAOIG and Facebook @SSA Office of the Inspector General for the latest information on Social Security-related scams. Visit the Federal Trade Commission for information on other government scams.
  • Spread the word. Share your knowledge of Social Security-related scams. Post on social media using the hashtag #SlamtheScam to share your experience and warn others. Visit oig.ssa.gov/scam for more information. Please also share with your friends and family.



Jazz Vespers will light up your holiday season


Jazz Vespers is ready to light up your holiday season! Join us on Sunday, December 12, 2021 at 5pm. 

The program will feature vocalist Jacqueline Tabor (“the Seattle Chanteuse”), Marina Albero on keyboard, Greg Feingold, bassist, Jeff Bush on trombone, and Jean Chaumont on guitar. 

Mark your calendar today for a wonderful evening filled with music and friends. We can’t wait to see you.

Live at Lake Forest Park Presbyterian Church 17440 Brookside Blvd NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155 or streaming live at Jazz Vespers LFP



Letter to the Editor: Stop herbicide use in Lake Forest Park

To the Editor:

Last August, Lake Forest Park residents were concerned to see that the city contracted the use of herbicides Roundup and Garlon 4 along Perkins way — including along salmon-bearing McAleer Creek. Herbicidal removal of invasive species constituted phase one of the Perkins Way project while phase two involves native plantings in spring 2022. Unfortunately, this use of herbicides is counterproductive to the goal of native restoration along Perkins Way.

Herbicides can unbalance bacterial and microorganism populations that are crucial for healthy soil. Glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, is an antibiotic that eradicates the soil bacteria that fix atmospheric nitrogen and microorganisms that suppress soil-borne plant pathogens. An ENDS report in 1991 even showed that spray drift from target sites can decrease tree hardiness, particularly during winter. Use of herbicides might make space for native plants, but it leaves behind a lower quality environment.

Many have expressed concern that this work was done adjacent to a salmon-bearing stream, with good reason. Negative effects of glyphosate extend far beyond where it has been directly sprayed. A 2011 study in Pesticide Management Science found that glyphosate is detected in surrounding surface and groundwater nearly anywhere it is used due to contaminated runoff. Multiple studies have shown that herbicides, including Roundup, are detrimental to salmonids. In addition to causing neurological impairment, glyphosate negatively impacts aquatic invertebrates, reducing food sources for resident salmonids. Again, while herbicides may seem like an effective option now, they impair the ecosystem in the long run.

Herbicide use along Perkins Way, or anywhere in our city, is counterproductive to the goal of a thriving, native ecosystem. Manual removal, while more time consuming, aligns far better with this goal. To express concerns about herbicide use in Lake Forest Park, email project manager Andrew Silvia at asilvia@ci.lake-forest-park.wa.us.

Thalia Jensen
Lake Forest Park



Gallery North Announces December’s Holiday Show: “An Artful Holiday!”

Mountain Christmas by Ben Groff
Gallery North is celebrating the holiday season with “An Artful Holiday!” featuring unique works of art created by our 16 local artists. 

In addition to winter- and holiday-themed paintings and photographs, this exhibit will feature various creative interpretations of artful gifts that provide wonderful, unique items for gift-giving to yourself, or for family members and friends. 

Gallery artists have created beautiful items to decorate the home, small artworks, jewelry to address the uniqueness of the wearer, hand-crafted wood, medallions, and glass designed to enhance any decor.

This year’s holiday show opens December 1, 2021 at Gallery North in downtown Edmonds. 

All artwork and gift items are available for purchase during the show, which is open to the public throughout the month of December, seven days a week, 11am - 5pm.

Red Cardinals by Leanna Leitzke
About Gallery North

In operation for almost 60 years, Gallery North is one of the longest running artist-run cooperative galleries in the nation. 

It continues its mission to promote and sell local art in the heart of downtown Edmonds. 

Open 6 days a week, Gallery North is located at 401 Main Street, Edmonds, Washington

For further information, call the gallery at 425-774-0946.




CORRECTION: Christmas tree sale to benefit Shorecrest Senior Spree - time corrections


Shorecrest Class of 2022 is sponsoring its annual Spree Tree Sale to benefit their Senior Spree graduation night festivities. The previous article had incorrect sale times in the text - the flyer was correct.

Warm drinks and other gifts for purchase will be available.

Dates and hours of the sale will be:
  • Fri 12/3 (3pm - 8pm)
  • Sat 12/4 (9am - 8pm)
  • Sun 12/5 (9am - 5pm)
Trees of all sizes and various price points. Cash and credit card payments accepted.

Lake Forest Park Towne Center (Windermere office) intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way (17711 Ballinger Way NE)



Notes from Shoreline council meeting November 22, 2021

Pam Cross, reporter
Shoreline City Council Meeting
November 22, 2021

Notes by Pam Cross

Deputy Mayor Scully called the remote meeting to order at 7:00pm.

Mayor Hall was excused for personal reasons. All other Councilmembers were present.

Approval of the Agenda
Agenda approved by unanimous consent.

Report of the City Manager Debbie Tarry

COVID-19 UPDATE

Case rates continue to slowly decline statewide and in King County we are at a level of substantial (down from high) transmission of COVID-19 infections. Unfortunately new cases are increasing in Shoreline.

Wear a mask, even if you are fully vaccinated. We encourage everyone to get vaccinated and, if eligible, get a booster shot. Masks are mandated for everyone in indoor public settings and outdoor crowded settings. To find available vaccines and for additional information, visit doh.wa.gov

In accordance with the Public Health Order effective 10/25/21 in all of King County, proof of vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken in the last 72 hours will be required for: indoor dining, bars, and recreational activities of any size including theaters, gyms, and performances as well as outdoor events with 500 or more people. More information: kingcounty.gov/covid

Vaccine Clinic for adults and children through December 17.


HOLIDAY EVENTS

The Holiday Crafts Market last Saturday had over 3,000 shoppers making it a great success.

Registration is open for the Winter Porch Light Parade.


Council Reports

CM Chang attended possibly the last meeting of the Regional Transit Committee on Service Guidelines, the Strategic Plan and the Long-Term Plan for KingCo Metro. We did the best we could for Shoreline. There was already some restructuring with the Northgate station opening and there will be more when our stations open. The amendments that passed basically allow for our buses to be moved out of our area to other areas in the County with greater needs, so there’s no guarantee we’re going to keep the bus service that we have. The most important part is that there is a provision that KingCo has to engage with the affected areas and develop a set of goals for the restructuring. There is a section in there where there is a goal of serving light rail but that the area can’t be left with worse service than they currently have. It is really unclear what that means in Shoreline because we don’t really have any routes that go east-west right now. We couldn’t get any new routes or new service which requires large concentrations of priority populations and we don’t have that. We need to make sure the City of Shoreline residents stay involved to protect our interests.

CM McConnell offered congratulations to CM Roberts for his election to the National League of Cities (NLC) Board of Directors. He was elected to a 2-year term and will provide strategic direction and guidance for NLC’s federal advocacy, governance and membership activities. NLC is the largest and most representative organization for cities, their elected leaders and municipal staff, and advocates for city priorities in Washington by building strong federal-local partnerships. The conference was remote and very busy. CM McConnell will be reapplying for the Transportation Committee.

CM Roberts thanked CM McConnell for her support for him and others. CM Roberts stated five Washingtonians were elected to the NLC board. The membership elected Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards as First Vice President, and Seattle Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda, Bellevue Councilmember Janice Zahn, and Vancouver Councilmember Ty Stober to two-year terms on the board. This is good representation from the Northwest for a national board of about 55.

DM Scully went to the Brotherton Cadillac groundbreaking for their new Shoreline facility and did the ribbon cutting at Grounded, a non-profit located behind Black Coffee NW.

Public Comment
NONE

Approval of the Consent Calendar
Consent Calendar approved unanimously

Action Item 8(a) Appointment of Pro and Con Committee Members for City of Shoreline Proposition 1: General Obligation Bonds for Parks, Improvements and Park Land Acquisitions

Eric Bratton, Communications Program Manager, gave the brief presentation


Pro Committee Applicants
  • Brian Branagan
  • Katie Schielke
  • Mary Ellen Stone
Con Committee Applicant
  • Joseph Smith
For the primary and general election, King County publishes a voters’ pamphlet. The City Council is responsible for appointing committees to prepare statements in favor of and in opposition to a ballot measure. These statements will be published in the voters’ pamphlet. Committees must submit their statements to King County Elections by December 14 and their rebuttals by December 16. The City must also provide an explanatory statement of the ballot title for the voters’ pamphlet.

DISCUSSION
Motion and second to appoint the volunteers (shown above) for the Pro and Con Committees.

DISCUSSION
Council stated appreciation for the volunteers who applied for the committees.
No additional comments.

VOTE
Passes unanimously 6-0.

Action item 8(b) Adopting the 2022 State Legislative Priorities

John Norris, Assistant City Manager, made the presentation

At its November 8 meeting, the City Council reviewed and discussed the proposed 2022 State Legislative Priorities. For 2022, staff proposes the continuation of efforts to secure funding and/or other legislative support for: a bike/pedestrian bridge at N 148th Street; planning support, in collaboration with partner cities, for a regional crisis triage center; and increased investment in behavioral health and misdemeanor court diversion.

Additional issues raised on November 8 included changing the residential energy code, potentially adding a priority to seek local authority to make changes to the State’s residential Energy Code. Council also discussed whether ongoing efforts by the State to develop the Fircrest Campus ought to be included as part of the Legislative Priorities.

Staff does not recommend adding Fircrest but did prepare a potential motion regarding the residential energy code.

DISCUSSION

Motion and second to adopt 2022 State Legislative Priorities

Motion and second to amend the main motion to read:


Last week we discussed the energy code around multi-family buildings. We want to allow the City to look at the residential codes as well as the multi-family. It will not commit the City, but gives us the authority to make changes if we so desire.

We need to be careful here. The energy code is very long and technical, with credits added and subtracted, in order to make a project work out. It’s nice to have Statewide code so there is no advantage to one City or County over another. Thank about vehicle emission standards where California has more restrictive requirements than the rest of the country. But a vehicle manufacturer cannot be expected to build vehicles differently for every individual state. I see the energy code in a similar way. One Statewide code is easier to work with and has the advantage of being vetted.

I share that caution. This is a short and therefore fast session so we should keep our legislative priorities very focused. This is a little broad. Adding to priorities takes away from our other ones that I think are more important.

I support it but I would be astonished if anything happens on it this session. It will probably be a multi-year process but now could be the time to start the conversation. And it should be a recurring discussion.

VOTE ON AMENDMENT
Motion passes 5-1, with CM McGlashan opposing

VOTE ON MAIN MOTION as amended
Passes unanimously 6-0

Study Item 9(a) Discussion of Ordinance No. 950 - Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 10.20 Speed Limits

Kendra Dedinsky, City Traffic Engineer, made the presentation


Historically, speed limit setting practices have relied heavily on 85th percentile speeds. That is, the speed at which 85% of traffic is traveling at or below on a particular street or road. This car-centric practice was based on the idea that most drivers are prudent, however this approach diminishes the experience and safety of non-driving roadway users. A 50th percentile operating speed may provide a better approximation of the average speed.

After additional review based on Council feedback from the January 4 discussion, staff worked with engineering consultant DKS to study speed limits and developed proposed amendments to SMC Chapter 10.20 Speed Limits for Council consideration. A new tool was used developed by the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP).


Staff proposes a speed limit reduction of five miles per hour (mph), from 35 mph to 30 mph, for five of the six corridors studied:
  • N/NE 175th Street from Aurora Avenue N to 15th Avenue NE
  • Meridian Avenue N from N 145th Street to NE 205th Street
  • 15th Avenue NE from NE 145th Street to NE 175th Street
  • Greenwood Avenue N from N 145th Street to NW Innis Arden Way
  • N/NW Richmond Beach Road from 8th Avenue NW to Fremont Avenue N
Analysis of the sixth corridor, 15th Avenue NE from NE 180th Street to NE 196th Street resulted in a recommendation to retain the existing speed limit. Council retains the authority to lower the speed limit on this segment if it chooses.

At the January meeting Council also mentioned concerns about speed enforcement. The plan is to retain existing citation rates and enforcement practices. Education and outreach will be key components of these changes.

Drivers often choose a speed within a certain increment above the posted speed limit. Study data confirmed that when posted speeds were lowered, operation speeds decreased.

The National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) also showed that crashes were lowest where the average vehicle operating speed was within 5mph of the posed speed.

Other main concerns were:
  1. sensitivity to the disproportionate impact traffic enforcement and citations have on lower income populations and people of color
  2. the economic cost of slower speeds.Increased travel time costs for all 5 corridors is estimated at $2.25M annually, and collisions are estimated to cost about $7M annually. If a significant reduction in injury collisions is realized, a balanced benefit/cost could be achieved.
  3. interest in a second review of the northern 15th Ave NE segment. New data was collected and the recommendation remained the same largely due to high operating speeds (using 50th percentile).
  4. the ability of posted speeds alone to influence lower operating speeds.

DISCUSSION

I was looking thru the spreadsheet results in the back of the staff report, and some of the streets were characterized as urban rather than suburban. Do we have urban streets in Shoreline?
  • Reply: the categories were chosen by the consultant. It was more qualitative - whether there were commercial or multifamily or single family homes. Our arterials fit into the urban category. I played around with the speed setting tool a bit and changing from urban to suburban didn’t really change the outcome. Density of signals, pedestrians and bikes didn’t have much of an impact either. There wasn’t as much sensitivity in the tool as I expected.
The Greenwood stretch had a really small number of accidents and 1 fatality. Other segments had much higher. Why is this part being reduced?
  • Reply: I was surprised too. The results seem to depend on whether they used 85th or 50th percentile. The tool still heavily relies on data that we put in. So if other factors (density of signals, the presence of pedestrians and/or bikes) had resulted in use of the 50th percentile, accident numbers would not make a difference.
A speeding vehicle caused the horrible accident we just had so the impact of speed is obvious. But we also need to keep design in mind as a big element because there will always be people who ignore speed limits and drive recklessly. I think 15th NE design needs to be addressed because the current design propels you through that corridor. I think a lot of people will be using it when we have light rail here.

Many of these roads have a lot of transit on them. Has Metro been consulted? Do they have any input?
  • Reply: Last year I talked to Metro and there weren’t any major concerns. They support Target Zero (Washington State’s Target Zero plan represents a bold vision: zero deaths and serious injuries on Washington's roadways by 2030). And of course they care about their users who are pedestrians as well. Metro is more concerned about congestion affecting their travel times. We will touch back with them before implementation.
We need to go beyond these corridors, and look at Dayton and 15th NE that we’ve already talked about. As we look at the land use map and look at these roads - all the current 35mph streets are generally on routes that have larger commercial, wider roads, and are not adjacent to R6 (single family) zoning. Dayton and 15th sections are R6. 35 mph needs to be limited to more commercial areas, not single family homes where you tend to see a lot of children. Neighborhood streets are not captured in the data.
Also they are looking at current usage. If you lower the speed limit and perhaps make some minor improvements, people will feel safer and walk and bike in areas where they currently don’t. Because of the changes we made to Richmond Beach Road, we see more bicyclists there now that we lower speeds and have bike lanes.

I support staff coming back to us sooner than another 10-15 years because we have such significant growth as we increase density around the light rail stations. Even with projections, we don’t know what it will really look like until it happens. We need to be proactive as these areas develop.

Thanks to the staff for answering the questions that we raised in January. I do have a concern that if we reduce a speed limit that is currently not followed, that would just create a bigger pool of people who can be cited - but it’s not necessarily safer. I would like traffic enforcement to concentrate on the ones that are going 50 or 60mph, and appear to be impaired. The seriousness of the accidents can be reduced by driving at a slower speeds.

I was surprised we do get safer as we set lower speed limits because most people will drive slower. But we’ll have to watch this. We don’t want to target any particular population.

Council is supportive.

This will come back as an Action item to allow additional discussion.

Study Item 9(b) Discussion of the Transportation Master Plan (TMP) Update

Nora Daley-Peng, Senior Transportation Planner, gave the presentation.

What is the TMP?
A realistic plan that results in action. It will guide transportation spending over the next 20 years based on community needs and priorities.

Why update the TMP?


This is a multi year process with a goal of completion at the end of 2022. The last update to the TMP was in 2011. This is the second briefing - the last briefing was in May.


Since May, we had various forms of outreach from mid-June to mid-July.

These were the key discussion topics:
  • Future transit service
  • Shared-use mobility to provide convenient ways (such as community van/shuttle, bike share, scooter share and ride hailing) for people to make that first and last mile connections without needing to drive.
  • Future traffic patterns and volumes when light rail stations open in 2024
  • The impact of redevelopment around the light rail stations
  • Interest in formalizing, beautifying, and extending a network of neighborhood paths to key destinations such as schools, parks, and commercial centers
  • Desire for more comfortable and direct bicycle connections to key destinations
  • And getting the highest and best use of curb space

DISCUSSION

How does the TMP interact with what’s going to happen at Metro? It seems like there is information here that’s important to get to Metro.
  • Reply: Nytasha Walters, our Transportation Services Manager, has been attending those meetings.
  • Reply by Nytasha Walters: We have been sharing our desire for Metro Connects (King County Metro's vision for bringing more service, more choices, and one easy-to-use system over the next 25 years). We have been advocating for the utilization of that as part of the restructuring that will be occurring with Lynnwood Link coming online. We are continuing to advocate for getting that implemented in the interim rather than long term.
The map of network pathways. Are these pathways developed? Or ones neighborhoods would like to see developed?
  • Reply: This was just a survey - not a study. So we wanted all ideas - existing or new additions. We do have these little “unimproved right of way” areas throughout the City. Some neighborhood associations have fixed them up using City grants and volunteer labor. It is City right of way and there was a lot of interest in them.
Are any on private property?
  • Reply: there might be some that infringe on private right of ways, but the respondents stayed focused on the City property.
If the City does them, do we have to do the maintenance?
  • Reply: Yes. If we want more, we need to figure how to pay to get them to created and maintained.
We are making good progress completing projects in the TMP. These long term plans are big, but they really do shape where we’re going with our City. Transit is important aspect as previously discussed.

Looking at some of the prioritization and scorecard for sidewalks, are we really going to look at them since they’re not mentioned in the 2011 TMP?
  • Reply: I know Council was very involved in the Sidewalk Prioritization Plan. It was the beginning of the pedestrian aspect of the TMP. We are heading into this update with that Plan in place and we’re building upon it. In terms of the metrics, we learned quite a bit. We can break down other goals the same way. We don’t have that yet. We need to be rock solid on the foundational stuff first before we move into a point system and metrics.
So you’re coming up with a score card for metro, roads, etc all as part of the TMP?
  • Reply: we are looking at a layered network (transit, walking, driving, biking). They overlap in many ways. Also we will talk about the prioritization process with everyone - but the scoring report will be outside the actual TMP. It’s too focused for a master planning document. Having it outside the master document allows it to be updated on a more regular basis.
But the scoring categories, and how we score, will be in the TMP?
  • Reply by Kendra Dedinsky: The metrics - yes. There will be different metrics for the different modes (biking/metro/roads). The standards that the modes are measured against will be in the TMP.
  • Reply: the TMP is about the process of how we want to prioritize the construction of projects over the next 20 years. The prioritizations metrics should be available next time we meet for input from Council. Things like how are we going to measure safety. We will have specific metrics and it will be a very early draft that will require much more work.
I thought the Sidewalk Prioritization we great - it was really well done. But we didn’t build in an update mechanism. And the safety valve was “Council can change it.” But we’ve learned that facts on the ground change faster than the update. Also, Council isn’t positioned to do that. I’m hoping we can build into the metrics a way to update the matrix more frequently and to capture the changes such as changing bus routes or new development, changed the priority. A project that made sense 5 years ago, may no longer be important.

This will come back in February or March.

MEETING ADJOURNED