 |
| Photo by Barbara Twaddell |
Barbara commented:
Sometimes clouds look more dramatic at night. This was from 7:35 PM 10/1.
Friday, October 2, 2026
Auditions for RBCC Players holiday show Saturday October 3, 2026
RBCC Players Presents
10 WAYS TO SURVIVE THE HOLIDAYS
A comedy, served ten ways
by Don Zolidis
AUDITION DATES
Auditions are by appointment:
- 10:00am–12:00pm Saturday October 3
- 7:00pm– 9:00pm Tuesday October 6
The holidays bring family, food, gifts, music, travel, decorations—and countless opportunities for everything to go hilariously wrong.
Guided by two narrators with very different attitudes toward holiday cheer, 10 Ways to Survive the Holidays unfolds through ten comedic vignettes featuring disastrous family photos, determined carolers, workplace chaos at the North Pole, impossible holiday travel, over-the-top decorations, unexpected hauntings, and more.
Beneath the laughter is a warm reminder that the holidays don’t need to be perfect to be meaningful—and none of us has to survive them alone.
Beneath the laughter is a warm reminder that the holidays don’t need to be perfect to be meaningful—and none of us has to survive them alone.
11th annual mattress sale fundraiser at Shorecrest November 1, 2026
The Shorecrest High School Music Department is hosting its 11th annual mattress sale fundraiser on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
This one day event will take place in the school’s gym at 15343 25th Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155 from 10am to 5pm.
If you (or anyone you know) is in the market for a new mattress or adjustable frame, please come see what we have to offer!
There will be 30 different mattresses on display for customers to try. Everything you can get at a retail outlet is available at our sale. The prices are highly competitive, the customer service is top notch, and all sales help support the Shorecrest band, choir, and orchestra programs.
- 30+ Models Available and on Display
- Brand New - Made to Order
- All Sizes, Styles, and Comfort Levels
- Full Manufacturer Warranties
- Delivery & Haulaway Available
- All Forms of Payment Accepted
- Great Financing
Funds are being raised for a variety of expenses including: student travel, instrument repair/replacement, coaching, and uniforms.
Dupont transfers assets to avoid responsibility for contaminating groundwater with 'forever' chemicals
Attorney General Nick Brown today joined a bipartisan coalition of 16 attorneys general in a lawsuit against the chemical company historically known as DuPont (now called “EIDP”), its parent company, Corteva, and a newly-created entity called “Vylor,” to prevent attempts to escape financial responsibility for the companies’ role in PFAS contamination.
These three companies are maneuvering to put DuPont’s most valuable business assets into the newly-created Vylor and leave their massive liabilities behind, including their responsibility for contaminating the country’s drinking water and natural resources with PFAS — dangerous chemicals commonly known as “forever chemicals” because of how long they persist in the human body and the environment. The lawsuit alleges this scheme is an effort to artificially reduce DuPont’s assets so the company can escape responsibility for their decades of harm to the American people.
“DuPont has known that these chemicals were harmful for decades, and for just as long they have worked to escape responsibility for harming our environment and the public’s health with these chemicals,” said Brown. “We’re proud to join a bipartisan group of attorneys general to demand corporate accountability.”
Once PFAS are used, they migrate through the environment, resist natural degradation, contaminate groundwater and drinking water, and are difficult and costly to remove. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to cancer, infertility, thyroid disease, and childhood developmental harm.
DuPont made and sold products containing PFAS for decades despite knowing about the dangers of these chemicals to human health and the environment. DuPont’s own documents show they concealed these dangers from people who bought these products, the general public, and state regulators. A 1984 memo from DuPont noted that manufacturers knew that PFAS could cause birth defects.
The toxic and hazardous effects of PFAS will impact Washington for decades, if not longer. PFAS have been found in more than 800 water sources in Washington. More than 60% of Washingtonians rely on groundwater for at least a portion of their drinking water. Groundwater also serves essential ecological functions, influencing surface water quality, supporting wetlands and providing important instream flows for salmon and other fish species.
Shorecrest boys varsity tennis vs Lynnwood 10-1-2026
 |
| Shorecrest team huddle Photo by Miles Mason |
Boys varsity tennis
10-1-2026
Shorecrest 6, Lynnwood 1
Singles
- Mihai Stansky (S) def. Aryan Jadal 6-1, 6-0;
- Lleyton Hoy (S) def. Kevin Phan 6-1, 6-1;
- Miles Garbaccio (S) def. Jaren Sayavong 6-1, 6-0;
- Jasper Dahl (S) def. Hung Truong 6-4, 6-1.
 |
| Jasper Dahl photo by Miles Mason |
Doubles
- Isamu Nakano-Jordan Nhoek (L) def. Winston Yao-Keane Patterson 6-4, 2-6, 10-8;
- Eli Barr-Grant Carpenter (S) def. Matthew Yao-James Lim 6-0, 6-3;
- Levi Leptich-Luke Artherholt (S) def. Kevin Tran-Kruz Mitchell 6-2, 6-2.
-Robert Mann
Jobs: City of Lake Forest Park Police Commander and part-time Transport Officer
Lake Forest Park, WA
Part-Time - $34.52 - $41.97 Hourly
Category: Law Enforcement
Department: Police
Part-Time - $34.52 - $41.97 Hourly
Category: Law Enforcement
Department: Police
Under the direction of the Support Services Division Commander, the Transport Officer safely moves detained individuals and inmates between correctional facilities and the court for legal proceedings. The officer maintains physical security of defendants, counsel, and court staff during court hearings. Additionally, this role serves arrest warrants and arrests judicially remanded defendants. Position is a specially commissioned peace officer, subject to the Civil Service certification process. Duties require the ability to make independent and immediate decisions and to remain calm under extremely stressful situations.
more information and application
--------------------------------------------------------------
Police Commander
--------------------------------------------------------------
Police Commander
Lake Forest Park, WA
Full-Time - $117,231.24 - $167,724.84 Annually
Category: Law Enforcement
Department: Police
Full-Time - $117,231.24 - $167,724.84 Annually
Category: Law Enforcement
Department: Police
Note: Proposed 2027 salary step schedule: $129,235.72 - $184,899.86 annually DOE.
***To be considered in the first round of application reviews, please apply by October 28, 2026.***
JOIN OUR TEAM As Commander, you will partner directly with the Chief of Police to shape and sustain the future success of the Lake Forest Park Police Department. This vital role requires a dynamic communicator who can build deep organizational trust and forge strong, collaborative relationships with City leadership, elected officials, and neighborhood community groups.
Jobs: City of Shoreline Facilities Maintenance Worker II and Senior Grounds Maintenance Worker
Job type: Full-Time Regular
Salary: $37.45 - $45.57 hourly
Opening date: 09/25/2026
Closing date: 10/11/2026 11:59
Shoreline is an inclusive City that endeavors to build a work culture which embraces diversity, encourages participation, and promotes equity.
Re-posting for a larger pool of applicants.
This job is represented by Local Union No.763. First consideration will be given to internal Local 763 members who express written interest in this job to Human Resources during the first 5-day period of this posting notice.
The Parks, Fleet and Facilities Division of Shoreline’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department is seeking a skilled, hands-on professional who takes pride in keeping public spaces safe, operational and welcoming. This role plays a vital part in maintaining the structural integrity and daily operations of our municipal buildings, maintenance facilities, community centers and parks. The City recently opened a new maintenance facility and is completing a multi-year parks capital improvement project adding new infrastructure city wide. Major features include a vehicle wash station, salt brine generating equipment, new public restrooms, boardwalks, spray parks, and irrigation systems. This work directly impacts the quality of life for coworkers and Shoreline residents on a daily basis. The successful candidate will be able to work in a team that is able to shift with changing priorities and work flexible hours to accommodate varying needs.
DEFINITION
To perform a variety of complex and technical construction, maintenance, remodeling and/or repair of equipment and facilities and HVAC systems; to operate a variety of maintenance vehicles, equipment and tools; and to perform a variety of tasks relative to assigned area of responsibility.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is the full journey level class within the Facilities Maintenance Worker series. Employees within this class perform the full range of duties as assigned including the maintenance and repair of systems in City facilities. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.
Please apply at: Facilities Maintenance Worker II
---------------------------------------------
City of Shoreline
Title: Senior Grounds Maintenance Worker
Job type: Full-Time Regular
Opening date: 09/23/2026
Closing date: 10/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary: $41.34 - $50.30 Hourly
Shoreline is an inclusive City that endeavors to build a work culture which embraces diversity, encourages participation, and promotes equity.
Public Works is an exciting environment committed to serving the Shoreline community through a variety of projects and programs. The Department is accredited by the American Public Works Association (APWA), demonstrating the use of best practices for the industry and a dedication to continually improving/enhancing operations and project delivery. The Grounds Maintenance Division within the Department is seeking a motivated individual to fill the role of Senior Grounds Maintenance Worker. The Grounds Maintenance Division is responsible for all ornamental landscapes within city rights-of-way and parks, as well as Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI). This position schedules the division's day-to-day work and ensures proper Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices. It is also responsible for ensuring a safety culture and conducting routine safety meetings.
DEFINITION
Under direction, oversees and participates in the more complex and difficult work of crews engaged in overall care and maintenance of grounds and landscaping infrastructure under the City's stewardship, including easements, medians, rights-of-way, parks, planter beds and strips, bio-swales, and other vegetative assets; leads and participates in the installation, repair, and maintenance of irrigation systems for landscaped areas; ensures work quality and adherence to established policies and procedures; and performs a variety of administrative and technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is the advanced journey level class in the Grounds Maintenance Worker series. Positions at this level are distinguished from other classes within the series by the level of responsibility assumed and the complexity of duties assigned. Employees perform the most difficult and responsible types of duties assigned to classes within this series, including providing lead responsibilities to assigned staff. Employees at this level must be fully trained in all procedures related to the assigned area of responsibility. This class is distinguished from the Grounds Maintenance Superintendent in that the Grounds Maintenance Superintendent is the first-line supervisory level.
Please apply at: Senior Grounds Maintenance Worker
CORRECTION: City council to discuss Lime Bike program at meeting Monday OCTOBER 5, 2026
This program has been tested in Shoreline for two years and the contract with Lime is coming up for renewal.
As reported in the staff study, the goal was to increase transportation options and reduce car trips. The staff report includes pros and cons of this program. See the staff report here.
Written comments may be emailed to the Council by 4pm on Monday. Public comments may be made in person or via Zoom. Public Comment for Council Meetings.
See prior article and comments in Shoreline Area News “Lime bikes are nearing the end of their two year pilot program in Shoreline”.
THE PREVIOUS ARTICLE STATED THE MEETING WAS ON SEPTEMBER 28. THE MEETING IS OCTOBER 5.
Thursday, October 1, 2026
Plant a Tree, Grow Lake Forest Park October 10, 2026
Have a little room in your yard for a new tree? The Lake Forest Park Tree Board, in partnership with the Lake Forest Park Water District, is giving LFP residents a chance to put down some roots—literally.
On Saturday, October 10, 2026 from 10am to 1pm, residents can pick up a free, high-quality native tree at the Water District offices, 4029 NE 178th St.
Sixty nursery-grown trees will be available, each approximately 3–4 feet tall and growing in a one-gallon container. Residents can choose from three native species:
Each species has different needs when it comes to sunlight, water, space, and eventual size, so take a little time to consider which tree will be the best fit for your yard. And because supplies are limited, it’s a good idea to have a second choice in mind.
The trees are intended for fall planting and will need regular watering during dry periods for the first several years as they become established. Watering bags will also be available, although some trees may need to grow larger before they can be used with them.
A few things to know:
The trees are intended for fall planting and will need regular watering during dry periods for the first several years as they become established. Watering bags will also be available, although some trees may need to grow larger before they can be used with them.
A few things to know:
- The giveaway is for Lake Forest Park residents only, with a limit of one tree per household.
- Trees will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and
- residents will need to provide proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill, when picking up their tree.
Sixty trees may not sound like a forest—but every big tree starts somewhere.
For more information contact cbishop@cityoflfp.gov
Navigating Success Small Business Forum October 7, 2026
%20v2.png)
Navigating Success Small Business Forum October 7, 2026
The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce, the City of Shoreline, and the Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) invite local business owners, and anyone thinking about starting a business, to the free 3rd Annual Navigating Success Small Business Forum.
Wednesday, October 7, 2026 from 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Shoreline City Hall
17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline 98133
Drop in to meet with local business resources, including free one-on-one advising from the Washington SBDC. At 5pm, local business owners Erin Murray, Kevin Barrett, and Marina Early will share what has worked and what they would do differently. Appetizers from Smokin’ Pete’s BBQ and refreshments will be provided.
The forum is free, but an RSVP is required by EOD Friday, October 2nd so we can plan for food.
Please RSVP here
Shorewood senior football captain named Prep Athlete of the Week by the Everett Herald
 |
| Kyson Vanee, Shorewood Football Captain |
Shorewood senior football captain Kyson Vanee was named the prep athlete of the week by the Everett herald last week. Kyson currently starts at QB and Safety along with handling all of the kicking duties.
Last week’s winner
Kyson Vanee | Shorewood football
The senior quarterback (18 of 24, 203 yards, 1 passing TD, 34 rushing yards, TD) led two fourth-quarter drives in Shorewood’s comeback win, including an 85-yard late game-winning drive capped by an 8-yard touchdown pass as the Stormrays improved to 2-1. Vanee won The Herald’s Athlete of the Week for Sept. 13-19, 2026.
The Shoreline Food Drive for Hopelink is Back for the Month of October
Throughout the month of October, the Shoreline community is coming together to support neighbors in need through the Shoreline Food Drive.
Donations can be dropped off at 16 participating locations across Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Mountlake Terrace, and North Seattle.
The demand for Food Bank resources continues to increase in our region. Basic items—canned meals, nut butters, spices, non-dairy milk, and more—are critical lifelines to individuals and families in our community who may be facing unexpected challenges.
Your donation helps fill the shelves at Hopelink’s Food Bank with a variety of foods. Look for the “Shoreline Food Drive” signs around town or find a convenient drop-off location near you.
You can also donate online
Join us in supporting this community-wide effort and help ensure everyone in Shoreline has access to healthy, nourishing food.
Join us in supporting this community-wide effort and help ensure everyone in Shoreline has access to healthy, nourishing food.
Shoreline Food Drive Donation Sites:
Ballinger Thriftway
20150 Ballinger Way NE, Shoreline, WA 98155
EVERYDAY 6 AM - 10 PM
Ballinger Thriftway
20150 Ballinger Way NE, Shoreline, WA 98155
EVERYDAY 6 AM - 10 PM
Lara Grauer Photography
14300 Greenwood Ave N Suite E, Seattle, WA 98133
TUES & WED 2-4 PM
or BY APPOINTMENT
Join us for a Harvest Party donation drop off event on October 22 from 4-6 PM
Minuteman Press North Seattle
10300 Greenwood Ave N Seattle, WA 98133
MON- FRI, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Ridgecrest Books
512 NE 165th St, Shoreline, WA 98155
SUN & MON 11 AM - 5 PM, TUES - SAT 11 AM - 7 PM
ShoreLake Arts
521 NE 165th ST, Shoreline, WA 98155
TUE - THURS 10 AM - 4 PM
Shoreline College
16101 Greenwood Ave. N., Pagoda Union Building, 9203 (Career Center)
Shoreline
MON - THURS 8 AM - 5 PM, FRI 8 AM - 4:30 PM
Sky Nursery
18528 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
MON - SUN 9 AM - 6 PM
Spartan Recreation Center
202 NE 185th St, Shoreline, WA 98155
MON-THURS 7 AM - 8 PM, FRI 7 AM - 5 PM, SAT 8 AM - 3 PM
1430 NW Richmond Beach Road, Shoreline, WA 98177
MON - THURS 12 PM - 10 PM, FRI 12 PM - 11 PM, SAT 11 - 11, SUN 11-10
Shoreline City Hall
17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
MON - FRI 8 AM - 5 PM
Shoreline Teen Center at the Richmond Highlands Rec Center
16554 Fremont Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
MON - THURS 2:30 - 6 PM, FRI 2:30 - 9 PM, SAT 6- 10:30 PM
Shoreline Historical Museum
18501 Linden Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
TUES - SAT 10 AM - 4 PM
SportClips
15407 Westminster Way N #5A-2, Shoreline, WA 98133
MON - FRI 8 AM - 7 PM, SAT 8 AM - 6 PM, SUN 8 AM - 5 PM
The Nock Point
22313 70th Ave W Ste U1A, Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
TUES - FRI 10 AM - 8 PM
SAT & SUN 10 AM - 6 PM
Meet the Experts, Open House at Irons Brothers Construction October 17, 2026
Meet the Experts, Open House at Irons Brothers Construction
Planning an addition, whole-home remodel, kitchen renovation, bathroom update, or aging-in-place project? Join Irons Brothers Construction for a special Open House and Meet the Experts event at their award-winning Design Build Center in Shoreline.
More than just an office, the Design Build Center was thoughtfully remodeled to showcase creative design ideas, quality craftsmanship, and the possibilities of a well-planned renovation.
Visitors can tour inspiring spaces, explore materials and finishes, gather ideas for their own homes, and see firsthand how thoughtful design can transform the way people live.
Throughout the event, homeowners can speak one-on-one with experienced design-build professionals to discuss project goals, ask questions, and learn more about the remodeling process.
Whether you're considering a home addition, major remodel, kitchen or bathroom renovation, or planning your forever home to age in place, the team will be available to provide guidance and expertise.
Saturday, October 17, 2026
10:00am - 3:00pm
Irons Brothers Construction Design Build Center
14926 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
Free admission. All are welcome. No RSVP required.
For more information, visit ironsbc.com or call 206-306-PROS (7767).
Explore, get inspired, and start the conversation about your future home.
Saturday, October 17, 2026
10:00am - 3:00pm
Irons Brothers Construction Design Build Center
14926 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
Free admission. All are welcome. No RSVP required.
For more information, visit ironsbc.com or call 206-306-PROS (7767).
Explore, get inspired, and start the conversation about your future home.
Travels with Charlie: What’s This at Animal Acres Demo Garden?
What’s This at Animal Acres Demo Garden?
Story & Photos by Gordon Snyder
Charlie and I were walking around Animal Acres path by the Demonstration Garden. I had to stop and check out this new box installed in the garden.
Charlie and I were walking around Animal Acres path by the Demonstration Garden. I had to stop and check out this new box installed in the garden.
Know what this is?
At first I thought was one of the park sculptors that make little debris artworks. But when looking closer, there is a lot of “diversity” on each of the shelves.
Hmmm…. I did a little checking and found a wonderful project. Back in the fall of 2024, a unique collaboration between King County Master Gardeners, Lake Forest Park Rotary, and Interact Students and Counselor from Shorecrest High School embarked on creating a pollinator garden as part of the Demonstration Garden at Pfingst Animal Acres Park in Lake Forest Park.
Efforts to be spent on plants birds & native insect pollinators.
So what is this? It's an Insect Hotel (also called a Bug Hotel or Bee Hotel). This structure was integrated as an educational asset by the King County Master Gardeners to demonstrate eco-friendly backyard conservation practices.
Shoutout to the Volunteers for this Living Ecology Display. Check it out when you can…
Cheers,
Gordon Snyder
================
Want a closer look at this?
Here’s what I discovered…
Gordon Snyder
================
Want a closer look at this?
Here’s what I discovered…
Instead of being random debris from the park, the materials inside the Hotel were carefully curated to mimic the natural wintering and nesting environments required by different beneficial insects at Animal Acres.
Some suggested details:
- Hollow Reeds & Bamboo Tubes: These create ideal nesting tunnels specifically for native solitary bees (like mason bees and leafcutter bees) which do not live in hives.
- Twigs, Bark, & Drilled Wood: These provide tight nooks and crannies for beetles, lacewings, and ladybugs that feed on common garden pests.
- Terracotta Pots & Bricks: The broken clay pots shield sections from rain while absorbing ambient warmth from the sun, offering a dry shelter for spiders and crawling beneficial insects.
- Wire Mesh Cover: The hardware cloth mesh secured across the front protects the delicate hibernating insects and their larvae from being eaten or torn apart by foraging birds.
Make one for your backyard. Let’s be watching this as the seasons change.
Cheers,
Gordon Snyder
October Blood Drives In and Around Shoreline
By Tom Petersen
Make all the Halloween jokes you want . . . the need for real blood is real, and as the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, there will be a cozy bloodmobile or warm reception room for you to donate!
To make an appointment for any of the following, go to www.bloodworksnw.org or call 1-800-398-7888.
That's also where to go to look for drives further afield on different dates, or to go to one of the brick-and-mortar donor centers which are open all day, all week.
- Monday, October 5, 10 am to 4 pm: Windermere Northlake, Lake Forest Park.
- Wednesday, October 7, 10 am to 4 pm: Town & Country Market, Shoreline.
- Also Wednesday, October 7, 10 am to 4 pm: Shoreline Community College, Shoreline.
- Friday, October 9, 8 am to 2 pm: Dale Turner YMCA, Shoreline.
- Saturday, October 17, 10:30 am to 4:30 pm: Broadview Library, Seattle.
- Also Saturday, October 17, 9 am to 3 pm: Top Pot Donuts, near ferry in Edmonds.
- Thursday, October 22, 12 noon to 6 pm: Edmonds College, Lynnwood.
- Monday, October 26, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm: Edmonds Waterfront Center, Edmonds.
- Wednesday, October 28, 9 am to 3 pm: Fircrest School, Shoreline.
- Friday, October 30, 11 am to 5 pm: Mountlake Terrace Library, MLT
Shorecrest boys varsity tennis vs Edmonds-Woodway 9-30-26
9-30-2026
Shorecrest 4, Edmonds-Woodway 3
Singles
Singles
- Mihai Stansky (S) def. Keston Morton 6-0, 6-1;
- Lleyton Hoy (S) def. Joe Meranno 6-2, 6-0;
- Miles Garbaccio (S) def. Michael Mkrtchou 6-4, 6-4;
- Abe Ho (EW) def. Jasper Dahl 6-2, 4-6, 10-8.
- Will Spear-Eli Ago (EW) def. Keane Patterson-Winston Yao 6-2, 6-4;
- Akiya Shaver-Kemuel Argopradipto (EW) def. Eli Barr-Grant Carpenter 6-4, 3-6, 10-7;
- Levi Leptich-Luke Artherholt (S) def. Isaiah Shultz-Evan Matthes 6-1, 6-4.
-Rob Mann
Ryu visits Sunday sign-waving
 |
| Cindy Ryu, right. Photo by Paul B. |
By Pamela Mieth
With so much riding on the federal midterm election, local races can be overlooked; but, in normal times, at least, they can have as much or more impact on our daily lives.
Attendees and passers-by at "Social Justice Sundays" sign-waving at the Shoreline-Edmonds line have appreciated the many local candidates who have taken the time to drop by and introduce themselves and answer questions over the past few weeks.
Most recent was 32nd Legislative District state Rep. Cindy Ryu (who is running for state senate against incumbent state Sen. Jesse Salomon) this past weekend. Ryu met some 50 area residents gathered for the weekly sign-waving who shared questions and concerns with the representative.
Sign-waving organizers Everyday Activists invited candidates in the 32nd Legislative District (which includes all of Shoreline and parts of Edmonds, Woodway, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, and Seattle) and the 21st LD (which includes parts of Edmonds, Lynnwood, Bothell, Everett and Mukilteo), as well as those in the five open state Supreme Court positions, to come by one Sunday between the end of August and Oct. 25.
Ryu was the ninth to accept. Invitations are still open and additional visitors may be scheduled before the election (Tuesday Nov. 3).
Sign-waving is held every Sunday at the intersection of Aurora Avenue North (Hwy 99) and N 205thh St, 1-2pm. Some signs are available to borrow and, as usual, donations of non-perishable food, personal care items and school supplies are accepted for donation to a local organization assisting those in need.
Also, voters should start planning to fill out their ballots as early as they can and bring them to an official ballot dropbox, if possible. Make sure you are registered to vote and have the correct ID in case of any last-minute changes coming from Washington, D.C.
Everyday Activists and Indivisible Shoreline WA are collaborating on sign-waving and info-sharing events Saturday, October 17, 10:30am to noon, on Aurora Avenue North (Hwy 99) at the intersections with N 155th St, N 175th St, and N 205th St to help make sure every vote counts!
Shoreline Proposition 1: Is This the Right Time to Finance $100 Million for a Luxury Pool?
Jeff Hays is part of the committee of three, chosen to write the Con statement for the voters pamphlet on Shoreline Prop 1
Many residents are rightfully questioning the creation of a new tax district and a permanent overall tax increase of 5.5% to 7.5% to finance $100 million in new debt for the construction and operation of a city-run pool. The City of Shoreline acknowledges that this initiative carries significant risks and yet placed the measure on the ballot anyway.
Financial and Taxpayer Risks
Interest-rate risk
Local and national news are dominated by concerns about rising interest rates and increasing debt costs. The City plans to issue bonds for pool construction in late 2027. If interest rates are higher than currently projected, the cost of servicing the debt over the next 20 years will increase dramatically. This could require the MPD to raise its tax rate beyond the initial proposed rate.
Rising property taxes and taxpayer fatigue
The proposition would add at least 33% to current city property taxes and increase total property taxes by approximately 5.5% to 7.5%. Property taxes in Shoreline have already increased much faster than inflation over the past eight years and are expected to continue rising.
Furthermore, the City is forecasting significant operating deficits by 2030. The City also plans to seek approval for another levy-lid lift (tax increase) in 2028—the same year the new MPD taxes would begin.
This raises an important question: Will the city be able to address its projected deficits, fund essential obligations, including sidewalks, public safety, existing park measures and successfully raise taxes further to pay for future public school projects?
Construction and Operating-Cost Risks
The $100 million construction estimate
The City’s current estimate for the pool is $100 million, or more than $1,500 for every Shoreline resident. However, the project is only approximately 10% designed. At this early stage, the cost estimate may not be sufficiently reliable. Continued inflation, changing construction costs, and design revisions could cause the final price to easily exceed $100 million. It is not too late to pause and find a viable solution that makes more sense.
Operating and maintenance costs
The City projects that operating and maintaining the pool will cost nearly $4.4 million annually on average during the first five years. If inflation or other factors push these costs above projections, the City may need to increase user fees, the MPD tax rate, or a combination of both.
Equity Concerns
The financial burden would not fall only on property owners. Those least able to absorb higher costs could be affected most severely. Property owners would pay the tax directly. Landlords will likely pass the increased cost on to renters through higher rent. Low-income seniors and people with disabilities will also be required to pay the new MPD taxes.
Some residents note that the new taxes could more than double what they currently pay in city taxes.
Other Aquatic Options
Shoreline residents currently have access to public pools in neighboring jurisdictions. The $100,000,000 question is: does the city of Shoreline need to be in the pool business? Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, and North Seattle all have viable options that charge daily access fees similar to those projected for the proposed Shoreline pool. Private options are also available, including the McMenamins Swimming Pool in Bothell and the Dale Turner YMCA.
These options allow Shoreline residents who want pool access to attain it for generally what it would cost them to do so with a new Shoreline pool, but without burdening all taxpayers with the proposed huge new tax obligation.
A Possible Public-Private Partnership
Alternatively, the City would be wise to further explore a public-private partnership with organizations like the YMCA, which have extensive experience developing and managing recreational facilities. Working with these organizations could include offering vouchers to aid in providing additional programming or staff support. Several Washington cities have successfully used public-private partnerships to provide recreation facilities while sharing development, operating, and financial responsibilities.
Conclusion
Everyone appreciates the value of added amenities and recreational facilities. This is not an argument against recreation or community pools; it is an argument for being fiscally responsible and keeping Shoreline affordable.
The City has more pressing priorities that should be addressed before taking on a new, long-term obligation. Proposition 1 involves substantial debt, uncertain interest and construction costs, ongoing operating expenses, and a permanent increase in property taxes. Sensible Shoreline voters should understand that Proposition 1 is too costly and financially risky at this time.
For more information, please visit our website at: shorelineprop1.com
-Shoreline Citizens for Responsible Spending.
Many residents are rightfully questioning the creation of a new tax district and a permanent overall tax increase of 5.5% to 7.5% to finance $100 million in new debt for the construction and operation of a city-run pool. The City of Shoreline acknowledges that this initiative carries significant risks and yet placed the measure on the ballot anyway.
Financial and Taxpayer Risks
Interest-rate risk
Local and national news are dominated by concerns about rising interest rates and increasing debt costs. The City plans to issue bonds for pool construction in late 2027. If interest rates are higher than currently projected, the cost of servicing the debt over the next 20 years will increase dramatically. This could require the MPD to raise its tax rate beyond the initial proposed rate.
Rising property taxes and taxpayer fatigue
The proposition would add at least 33% to current city property taxes and increase total property taxes by approximately 5.5% to 7.5%. Property taxes in Shoreline have already increased much faster than inflation over the past eight years and are expected to continue rising.
Furthermore, the City is forecasting significant operating deficits by 2030. The City also plans to seek approval for another levy-lid lift (tax increase) in 2028—the same year the new MPD taxes would begin.
This raises an important question: Will the city be able to address its projected deficits, fund essential obligations, including sidewalks, public safety, existing park measures and successfully raise taxes further to pay for future public school projects?
Construction and Operating-Cost Risks
The $100 million construction estimate
The City’s current estimate for the pool is $100 million, or more than $1,500 for every Shoreline resident. However, the project is only approximately 10% designed. At this early stage, the cost estimate may not be sufficiently reliable. Continued inflation, changing construction costs, and design revisions could cause the final price to easily exceed $100 million. It is not too late to pause and find a viable solution that makes more sense.
Operating and maintenance costs
The City projects that operating and maintaining the pool will cost nearly $4.4 million annually on average during the first five years. If inflation or other factors push these costs above projections, the City may need to increase user fees, the MPD tax rate, or a combination of both.
Equity Concerns
The financial burden would not fall only on property owners. Those least able to absorb higher costs could be affected most severely. Property owners would pay the tax directly. Landlords will likely pass the increased cost on to renters through higher rent. Low-income seniors and people with disabilities will also be required to pay the new MPD taxes.
Some residents note that the new taxes could more than double what they currently pay in city taxes.
Other Aquatic Options
Shoreline residents currently have access to public pools in neighboring jurisdictions. The $100,000,000 question is: does the city of Shoreline need to be in the pool business? Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, and North Seattle all have viable options that charge daily access fees similar to those projected for the proposed Shoreline pool. Private options are also available, including the McMenamins Swimming Pool in Bothell and the Dale Turner YMCA.
These options allow Shoreline residents who want pool access to attain it for generally what it would cost them to do so with a new Shoreline pool, but without burdening all taxpayers with the proposed huge new tax obligation.
A Possible Public-Private Partnership
Alternatively, the City would be wise to further explore a public-private partnership with organizations like the YMCA, which have extensive experience developing and managing recreational facilities. Working with these organizations could include offering vouchers to aid in providing additional programming or staff support. Several Washington cities have successfully used public-private partnerships to provide recreation facilities while sharing development, operating, and financial responsibilities.
Conclusion
Everyone appreciates the value of added amenities and recreational facilities. This is not an argument against recreation or community pools; it is an argument for being fiscally responsible and keeping Shoreline affordable.
The City has more pressing priorities that should be addressed before taking on a new, long-term obligation. Proposition 1 involves substantial debt, uncertain interest and construction costs, ongoing operating expenses, and a permanent increase in property taxes. Sensible Shoreline voters should understand that Proposition 1 is too costly and financially risky at this time.
For more information, please visit our website at: shorelineprop1.com
-Shoreline Citizens for Responsible Spending.