Showing posts with label ShARCC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ShARCC. Show all posts

2019 November election results and the impacts to Shoreline: Shoreline Proposition 1 and I-976

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

From the City of Shoreline

Over the next several months, the City will discuss how the results of the November election will affect our community.

Passage of Initiative 976 (I-976) will place a significant strain on our transportation programs and the wider City budget as we search for ways to absorb the annual loss of more than $1.6 million from the City’s street and sidewalk maintenance and preservation programs. 

Failure of Shoreline Proposition 1 will require the Council and the community to have tough discussions about aquatics programming offered by the City and future investments in parks and City recreation facilities.

Shoreline Proposition 1

With an approval vote of 54%, Shoreline Proposition 1 failed. Because Prop. 1 was a bond measure, it required a 60% approval rate to pass. Over the past several years, hundreds of Shoreline residents have contributed to the discussion on developing the proposed Shoreline Aquatics, Recreation, and Community Center and on making improvements to our parks.

Whether you voted to approve or reject the proposition, we want to thank Shoreline residents for taking the time to learn about the issue, provide their input, and vote. As we work to identify a new path forward that will meet the needs of our growing community, we hope that those who supported and opposed the Proposition stay engaged and continue to contribute to the discussion.

Using the extensive input from the public and taking all the different community needs and interests into account, the Council felt it put the best option forward. Council will now begin to evaluate the results of the election and determine what next steps, if any, they should take regarding future investments in park improvements and the City’s recreation facilities.

Council will need to make some tough decisions regarding the Shoreline Pool. The repairs we made to the Pool in 2015 were meant to be temporary and not last much more than five to seven years.

Even with the $750,000 investment in 2015, the City has been experiencing increasing maintenance costs at the pool as it is over 50 years old and the pool systems and building structure are nearing the end of their useful lives. 

In 2019 alone, the City has seen pool repair costs exceed $125,000. Council will need to evaluate whether it makes economic sense to put further investment into the existing pool, refine options for a new facility, or decide not to provide aquatic programs in the long-term.

Until the School District decides to use the Spartan Recreation Center for other purposes, it will continue to operate as it does today. As the need for repairs arise, Council will have to determine how much to invest in an aging facility we do not own.

State, regional, and local transportation funding face cuts under I-976

Passage of I-976 eliminates Shoreline’s ability to charge a vehicle license fee (VLF) for transportation purposes.


  • In 2009, City Council adopted a $20 VLF to help fund the maintenance of Shoreline streets on a regular schedule. Over time, this has helped us preserve our streets and avoid more costly road replacements that can be the result of deferred maintenance. 
  • Council passed the other $20 VLF in 2018 for the repair and maintenance of our existing sidewalk network. 

I-976 does not affect the new sidewalk sales tax measure approved by Shoreline voters in 2018. The new sidewalk program will be able to move ahead as expected.


The combined fees generated approximately $1.6 million per year. The loss of that funding affects the entire transportation program, as well as other City programs and services, as we will need to find that funding elsewhere in the budget or reduce or eliminate these maintenance programs.

The City Council is already considering nearly $1.3 million in budget holds including delaying equipment purchases, redirecting funds for park improvements, and reallocating projected budget savings towards the City’s annual road surface maintenance program.

Passage of I-976 will also significantly affect State transportation funding, particularly for transit and paratransit. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), working with the State Legislature, will need to make decisions about how to maintain state highways, provide transportation options for individuals with disabilities, and more. State funding for local transportation projects, including ones in Shoreline, may be called into question in the coming months.

I-976 will also cut King County Metro funding, which in turn could affect routes serving Shoreline.

Finally, Sound Transit (ST) has indicated that the impacts to funding from I-976 will be significant as well.

While it is unlikely to impact the 2024 opening of light rail in Shoreline, other ST projects or programs, such as Bus Rapid Transit that is planned to serve our Shoreline South/145th Station, may be affected.

There is yet much to be determined about the impacts of this Initiative. Shoreline staff will be keeping an eye on developments and providing updated Shoreline-related information as we learn it.



Read more...

Op-ed: The importance and sound reasoning of a new Community Center and Pool

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Shari Winstead, former
Mayor of Shoreline
Shari Winstead is a former Shoreline Mayor

When I was first elected to the City Council, one of my priorities was to make Shoreline a healthy city for our citizens. A key element of that goal was improving our parks. Parks and public spaces are used by everyone, from toddlers using swings to seniors and others staying active by walking the trails.  A robust park system also increases our desirability as a community.

I am proud that the current Council has put Proposition 1 on the ballot. In 2006, we were not able to make improvements to the four parks who will benefit from Prop 1 (Brugger’s Bog, Briarcrest, Hillwood and Richmond Highlands). Improvements to these parks are desperately needed. The play area at Brugger’s Bog was underwater for good portions of the year. And across the City, we do not have a fully-accessible playground for all ages and abilities. The improvements to Richmond Highlands will make sure that our park facilities are accessible to all.

As Mayor, I supported investing $750,000 to keep the current pool open for five to seven years. It was a tough decision, and we found out later that it was difficult to find parts that worked with the existing system. We knew costs would continue to rise just to keep the pool running. As a Council, we recognized that it was not financially responsible to keep spending your tax dollars on a pool that is increasingly expensive to run, and where parts were sometimes difficult (if not impossible) to find.

I know that the residents who served on the Parks Board and the Parks and Recreation Funding Committee carefully considered all of the options before recommending a ballot measure. I know that my colleagues on the Council carefully considered all of the costs before placing Proposition 1 before the voters.

The current site of the pool is not ideal for a new community and aquatics center. The current pool is over a quarter-mile from the nearest transit stop.  Replacing the facility at the current location would put parking on the far side of the soccer fields, making it harder for seniors and parents with infants to access the facility. And, if the center were to be built on the existing site, the tennis courts would have to be moved to different park.

The proposed location for the Aquatic and Community Center is in center of the city, and right along a frequent transit line, making it more accessible to all. The Shoreline School District is contributing to the costs of the pool and there is money available from King County that should help offset building costs. The state is also being asked to pitch in for funding.

I’m also excited about the Aquatics and Community Center because it will meet the needs of our growing population. The configuration of the current pool makes it impossible for individuals to participate in swim team practices and for staff to conduct swim lessons at the same time. With two new pools, the City will have more capacity to offer swim lessons and allow more students the opportunity to be on the swim team.

Please join me, the Shoreline Education Association (your teachers), the Shoreline PTA Council, and many of your friends and neighbors in voting for Proposition 1.

Sincerely,
Shari Winstead



Read more...

Op-Ed: Shoreline PTA Council endorses Shoreline Proposition 1

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

At our September 23, 2019 General Membership Meeting, the Shoreline PTA Council 6.12 voted to endorse Shoreline Proposition 1. 

The proposed new Shoreline Aquatics, Recreation and Community Center, along with improvements at four area parks, is a strong investment in creating active gathering spaces for our families – including, notably, a fully accessible play area for people of all physical abilities.

 Our primary reason for support, however, is the inclusion of an eight-lane pool for recreational and competitive swimming and diving, along with a fully accessible viewing area.

The Shoreline School District currently does not have a long-term facility that can support the swim and dive teams from Shorecrest and Shorewood High Schools. 

High school swimming is one of the very few non-cut sports that any student can join, including beginning swimmers, and this allows students from all backgrounds to participate in a sport during their high school career. 

Swim and dive team students and their families attended many city and school board meetings in the last year to advocate for the continuation of a sport that has created an especially tight-knit and inclusive community.

PTA supports the critical role physical activity plays in increasing physical and mental health in children and understands that fitness and engagement in physical activities are associated with not only greater academic achievement and cognitive functioning, but through team sports can also enhance a sense of belonging and self-confidence.

It is imperative that we build strong communities that include safe, inclusive and accessible parks and community centers.

Shoreline is in need of a long-term facility that can comfortably host regional swim meets, maximize participation of year-round swimmers and attract an increasingly diverse population into the swim community.  

Help ensure that high school swimming can continue in the Shoreline School District. Please support Proposition 1.

Silje Sodal and Amy Reed
Co-Presidents
Shoreline PTA Council 6.12



Read more...

Shoreline Proposition 1 Informational Meetings Tuesday

Monday, October 14, 2019

4 parks and a community center
on the ballot
Shoreline Proposition 1 Informational Meeting
Tuesday, October 15, 2019, 11am to 12noon
Spartan Recreation Center 202 NE 185th St, Shoreline 98155

A second session will be offered the same day and place from 7pm to 8pm.

Shoreline City Council has placed a bond measure, Shoreline Proposition 1, on the November 5, 2019 general election ballot.

Approval of Proposition 1 will allow the City to construct a new aquatics, recreation, and community center. It will also allow the City to make improvements to four community parks. 

The City would issue up to $103,600,000 in general obligation bonds to be paid back through an increase in property taxes.

To learn more about Proposition 1, come to this informational session. Learn more about the new aquatics, recreation and community center and improvements to the four community parks.

Bring your questions!

More information



Read more...

City of Shoreline hosting two informational meetings on Proposition 1

Friday, September 20, 2019

Location of proposed ShARCC
and the four parks
Shoreline City Council has placed a bond measure, Shoreline Proposition 1, on the November 5 general election ballot.

Approval of Proposition 1 will allow the City to construct a new aquatics, recreation, and community center. It will also allow the City to make improvements to four community parks. 

The City would issue up to $103,600,000 in general obligation bonds to be paid back through an increase in property taxes.

The city is hosting two informational meetings on Proposition 1.

Wed., Sept. 25
7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Shoreline Library
345 NE 175th St.

Tues., Oct. 1
7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Richmond Highlands Recreation Center
16554 Fremont Ave. N.

To learn more about Proposition 1, come to one of these informational sessions.

More information



Read more...

Shoreline council appoints committee to write Pro statements for ShAARC

Friday, August 9, 2019

ShARCC design
Shoreline Aquatics, Recreation, and Community Center
At its meeting on Monday, August 5, 2019, the Shoreline City Council appointed three citizens to write the Pro statements for Shoreline Proposition 1: General Obligation Bonds for Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Improvements - the main part of which is the ShARCC (Shoreline Aquatics, Recreation, and Community Center).

They were selected from applications submitted to council.

The selected committee members are:
  • Susie McDowell, Shorewood swim coach and teacher at Echo Lake Elementary
  • Pam Cross, Hillwood Neighborhood Association, reporter for Shoreline Area News
  • Carolyn Hope, 2018 Shoreline Parks Funding Advisory Committee; Land Steward for Strandberg Preserve in Innis Arden; Park Planning and Cultural Arts Manager for the City of Redmond
The council was unable to create a committee to write the Con statement because no one applied.

Statements created by the Pro committee will appear in the November voters' pamphlet.



Read more...

City Council places ShARCC on November ballot

Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Shoreline City Council places Shoreline Proposition 1 on November ballot: Bond measure to construct new aquatics, recreation, and community center and make park improvements

On July 29, City Council approved placing Shoreline Proposition 1 on the November 5 general election ballot.

Approval of Proposition 1 will allow the City to construct a new aquatics, recreation, and community center. It will also allow the City to make improvements to four community parks. The City would issue up to $103,600,000 in general obligation bonds to be paid back through an increase in property taxes.

The new Shoreline Aquatics, Recreation, and Community Center (ShARCC) would replace the almost 50-year-old Shoreline Pool and the 70 plus year-old Spartan Recreation Center. It would also provide space for senior programming currently located at the Shoreline Center.

The ShARCC would be approximately 75,000 square feet and include:
  • Community spaces for classes, rentals, and informal gatherings
  • 6,000 square feet of space prioritized for senior programming, including a commercial kitchen for meal services
  • A two-court gymnasium and indoor walking and jogging track
  • Exercise and weight rooms
  • An activity pool with play features, such as a lazy river and splash-pad
  • A separate eight-lane lap pool for recreational and competitive swimming and diving; swim lessons; and shallow and deep-water exercise classes. There will also be a fully accessible viewing area for approximately 500 spectators
  • A courtyard for casual community gatherings and play. 

The four neighborhood parks that would be improved are: Brugger’s Bog, Hillwood, Richmond Highlands, and Briarcrest Community (Hamlin). Park improvements would include such things as playgrounds, splash-pads, multi-sports courts, trails, and a fully accessible play area for people of all physical abilities.

The owner of a median valued home ($480,000) would expect an increase of approximately $244 annually, or $20 a month, over what they are currently paying.

More information on Shoreline Proposition 1 here. If you have questions, you can contact Management Analyst Christina Arcidy 206-801-2216.



Read more...

Parks presents information on the Community Center bond at Senior Center

Monday, July 29, 2019

Eric Friedli and Angie Ramirez answer questions
about the Senior Center space in the new
Community and Aquatics Center
Photo by Jarred Wright
By Diane Hettrick

Eric Friedli, Director of Parks, Recretation, and Cultural Services and Angie Ramirez, Spartan Rec Center Supervisor, made a presentation at the Senior Center on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 at 10am to show plans for the proposed Community and Aquatics Center, which appears slated for the November ballot in Shoreline.

The Senior Center did not have a place in the original design of the building but after the public feedback, the design was modified to include room for Senior Center activities.

The revised design has a commercial kitchen, essential for the Meals on Wheels program. It provides 6000 square feet for senior activities, which includes the 1200 sq ft kitchen.

Attendees at the session questioned the location of the building, and the environmental impact of using that much fresh water for swimming. Friedli said that the pool would rarely be drained - that the current pool was drained only for repairs.

The need for a new pool was questioned. Why not just repair the old one? Friedli pointed out that the pool is 50 years old. He said that they no longer make parts for the equipment that runs the pool. They had to search the entire United States to find parts for the last repair.

There were many questions about how much it would cost each homeowner to pay for the bond. The answer was about $16 a month.

The current Senior Center is in a building owned by the School District. The District has a cordial relationship with the SC and has expressed no interest in redeveloping the site.

Attendees seemed shocked that the 12,000 sq ft in the current building would be reduced to 6000 sq ft in the new building. Director Friedli said that designing the interior space more efficiently would make up for the loss of square footage.

There are no bathrooms near the SC space but Friedli said that he was aware of that and that some redesign could take place to add bathrooms after the bond had been voted in. 

Other concerns were the lack of office and work space, seating space and tables for the daily lunch serving, room for a small stage, and space for different kinds of activities, both quiet such as yoga and loud such as the clogging classes. The medical services and advisory services need private spaces, and some need dedicated spaces.

Another issue was that there is no storage space in the building. The Meals on Wheels program needs to take early morning deliveries, and safely store foods at different temperatures. Classes and activities have materials that need to be stored onsite.

Other feedback included needed changes to the parking lot to safely bring in Access vans, school buses, and drop offs to allow parents to bring children to and from swim lessons. 

A shared hallway was a concern for some, who felt that seniors using canes and walkers would be vulnerable in a crowded hallway. The design shows a very long hallway after a long walk in from the parking lot. However, Friedli said that it's really not very different from the current building.

Curbs are an obstacle for many seniors and extremely difficult for those in wheelchairs, walkers, and canes. Curb cuts can be dangerous for those with mobility issues.

There is no room in the building for the Bargain Center Thrift Shop, a fundraiser for the SC. 

Attendees wondered if the City would continue to support the Center with a financial contribution and if the SC would have to pay rent in the new building.

The issue of scheduling was discussed. Ms Ramirez assured the group that the Senior Center would have control over its space during the day but not at night, so evening programs would have to compete with other activities. This, however, is not in the written documents. Priority would be given to building residents over outside activities. 

Seniors pointed out that the population of the area is aging and expressed concern that they would be asked to pay a high price for reduced services.

"We're always an afterthought," one commented after the meeting.


Read more...

Coffee hour at the Senior Center to learn about the Property Tax Bond Measure to fund the Community Aquatics Center

Monday, July 22, 2019

City of Shoreline webpages


Want to learn more about 2019 General Election Ballot to Authorize a Property Tax Bond Measure for the Community Aquatics Center?

A Coffee Hour will be co-hosted by Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center and Shoreline Parks and Recreation Staff, Eric Friedli and Angie Ramirez

Wednesday, July 24, 2019 - 10:00am – 11:00am
Ask questions, find answers and review the proposed building specs

All are welcome!

Shoreline – Lake Forest Park Senior Center
18560 1st Ave NE, Bldg G
Shoreline, WA 98155



Read more...

Shoreline council seeks volunteers to write the pro and con statements for the aquatics center

Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Architect's drawing for Community and Aquatics Center


Shoreline Council seeks volunteers for voters’ pamphlet pro and con committees for potential Shoreline Proposition 1: General Obligation Bonds Parks, Recreation and Open Space Improvements


At their June 24 meeting, the Shoreline City Council indicated they intend to move forward with placing a bond measure for parks, recreation, and open space improvements on the November 5, 2019, general election ballot. (see information here)

The measure could include money for a new community and aquatics center and possibly park improvements. Council is scheduled to make a final decision at their July 29 council meeting.

Accompanying the November ballots will be the King County Voters’ Pamphlet. The pamphlet will include an explanatory statement from the City that states the effect of a bond measure if approved. 

In response will be statements in support and opposition to the ballot measure. 

State law requires the City Council to appoint two committees to draft the pro and con statements. The committees can have no more than three members each; however, the committees may seek advice from any person or persons. The committees will also have an opportunity to write a rebuttal statement to the other side’s statement.

Individuals interested in applying for one of the committee positions can fill out an online application. Applications are due by August 2 at 10:00am. The City Council will review the applications and appoint the committee members at its August 5 business meeting.

To learn more about the requirements for the voter’s pamphlet and the duties of the pro and con committees, review the 2019 Jurisdiction Manual at King County Elections.

If you prefer to fill out a paper ballot, you can download them below or pick one up from the Clerk’s Office at City Hall.

2019 Proposition 1 PRO Committee Application




Read more...

Notes from Shoreline Council meeting May 20, 2019

Wednesday, May 22, 2019

Shoreline City Hall
Photo by Mike Remarcke

Shoreline City Council Meeting
May 20, 2019
Notes by Pam Cross


Mayor Hall called the meeting to order at 7:00pm

All councilmembers were present.

Report of the City Manager Debbie Tarry

Tuesday, May 21st, there is an Open House regarding 175th Street Corridor Improvements between Stone Ave and I-5 at 6:00-8:00pm in City Council Chamber. An online Open House is also available at shorelinewa.gov/175corridor

Tuesday May 28th is the final Home Improvement Workshop 6:00 to 8:00pm at City Hall. Reserve an appointment to discuss your project at shoreline.gov/homeimprovement.

There is also a vendor fair that does not require an appointment.

Thursday June 6th is the State of the City Breakfast from 7:00-8:30am at Shoreline City Hall. RSVP to Heidi Costello at hcostello@shorelinewa.gov or call 206-801-2214. The event is free.

Public Reminders

The PRCS/Tree Board will meet Thursday May 23rd at 7:00pm in room 303.

In honor of Memorial Day, City Hall will be closed Monday, May 27th. There will be no Council meetings. The next Council meeting will be held on Monday, June 3rd.

Council Reports

Councilmember Chang attended the monthly Regional Transit Meeting that featured a workshop addressing equity and sustainability when integrating Metro buses with all ride shares, scooters, bicycles etc. and how technology will assist in the coordination.

Mayor Hall met with Edmonds Mayor Ed Earling to advocate for funding for improved non-motorized access to light rail stations.

Public Comment

Susie McDowell, Robin McClelland, Jim Wigfall, Lyn Sherry, Aaron Franklin

Ed Vanna, Theresa LaCroix, and Joanne Donohue made favorable comments regarding the CAC.

Students Simon and Spencer requested Council impose a ban on plastic straws. They can’t be recycled with current equipment. The benefits to the environment outweigh the cost.

The agenda was approved unanimously.

The Consent Calendar was adopted, without discussion, unanimously.

Action Item 8(a) Public Hearing and Discussion on the Reprogramming of 2018 and 2019 Community Development Block Grant Capital Funding to Implement Approved Programs and Projects

Staff report by Bethany Wolbrecht-Dunn, Grants Administrator

This City receives City General Fund dollars and federal CDBG funds (approximately $320,831) annually. After allocation to regional projects, administration and local capital projects, about $154,00 remains. A Public Hearing is required to “reprogram” these funds. The recommended projects are (1), $108,000, (2) $44,189, and (3) $42,404.

“Housing set aside” has been used in Shoreline, however there are no housing projects currently able to use the funds.

There are four applications for use of these funds
  • Center for Human Services (CHS) – Fire Escape/Play Area
  • Compass Housing – Water Leak Repair at Ronald Commons**
  • Hopelink – Shoreline Service Center Capacity Improvements (carpet and room divider)
  • Contingency to Compass and Hopelink to reach total funds

**The water damage is caused by water flowing between floors, not by improperly installed or damaged water pipes. See discussion below.

The Council is expected to vote on this June 3rd.

No questions from Council.

No public comments.

Council discussion

Compass Housing water issue: City would have to sue the contractor/designer in order to recover funds if negligence can be proven. It was designed and built to code and is a newer building, but there are gaps from floor to floor allowing water to travel down to lower floors.

Housing set aside: why do we set it aside if it’s so hard to use? It isn’t a large amount of money, and there are federal rules and “strings” attached. This money can be added together to use for a larger project. Unfortunately federal funds are decreasing from year to year. We always ask for more.

In the future, hope we can attract more and larger projects. Hate to have to find these smaller projects that aren’t high priority. When we ask for increased funds we need better projects to show how we’re spending the money.

Study Item 9(a) Discussing Community and Aquatics Center and Park Improvements Priorities and Funding

Staff report by Eric Friedli, PRCS Department Director

Thanks to staff members and for input from the community.

This project started in 2011 and included outreach efforts to various stakeholder and community groups as well as concept designs, forming an advisory committee, and a community survey.

The 2017 PROS Plan established a goal to build a new Community and Aquatics Center with an objective to “place a proposal for a new community/aquatics center before the voters by 2020 and open a new facility in 2022.”

The most recent cost estimate for the Community and Aquatics Center is $88.1 million. In summary, the staff recommendation is for the following:

• Provide a Community and Aquatic Center that includes an 8-lane lap pool, a pool viewing area for approximately 500 spectators, increases the community facility space by 6,000 square feet which will include a commercial kitchen to provide for dedicated time for senior use or could proceed without these options

• Site the Center at 17828 Midvale Ave N and proceed with acquisition of this property at about same cost if built on SD property

Staff requests Council to direct staff to prepare legislation and other materials for placing a 20-year $88.1M bond measure on the ballot at the November 2019 General Election.

Does the Council concur with staff’s recommendations of:
1.  Additional features included in CAC (listed above)

2.  Location on Midvale instead of offered SD property on a 50 year lease (cost is about the same at either location)

3.  Size and duration of bond measure (SD may contribute $2.4M and/or there may be funding from the King County Levy $5M). If we request less money than we need, a new bond measure will be required to fund the difference. If we approve more than we need, repayment would be lower because the grants or gifts would go to pay off the bond.
The contribution by the SD was based on earlier negotiations regarding the use of their land. They offered three options: the land, capital investment of $2.4M, or providing operation and maintenance costs. Their preference was the land.

KingCo Parks Levy includes funding for pools in form of grants with a maximum of $5M. It will be a competitive grant we would have to apply for but don’t know the details and won’t know until after the primary if this will even be available.



4. Timing of the bond measure. An alternative to the November ballot would be a Special primary or general election in 2020.

5. Not including additional park improvements in the bond measure for Brugger’s Bog, Hamlin (Briarcrest), Richmond Highlands, and Hillwood. Including them would increase the bond to $106M.

Next Steps:
  • 6/10 for continued discussion, or
  • 6/24 discussion of a resolution authorizing the placement of a ballot measure on the 2019 General Election
  • 7/29 Adoption of the resolution
  • 8/06 Deadline to submit!
Discussion

Additional features

The recommendation from staff is still expensive but the additions of senior center space and two additional swimming lanes will be a real asset.

It doesn’t make sense to spend a lot of money on a big building and not fulfill some of the basic needs of the community. It is a relatively small increase to add the senior center and extra lanes.

Without the diving well, the pool will be deep enough at one end to dive and play water polo. The six lanes had already included the extra depth. A separate well would add too much cost for half a dozen users.

The space for the senior center is not dedicated - it is shared-use with programming, parks, and classes - with priority to senior center and their offices.

This project is a “legacy piece.” Council has listened and incorporated the improvements that have been included.

Is this the right size and the right cost for all of the elements that have been included? Answer: staff has gone through numerous iterations, what we offer and want to offer, hours of operation, cost of operations, maintenance and construction etc, We believe this is the right size of building for Shoreline. Also, building as one project is less expensive than separate rec and pool centers.

Location

“Free” land from the School District was very tempting but further research determined that the it was revenue neutral. The reason is the MUR zone of that location has different environmental regulations. It would have to meet “passive house.” The building proposed will not meet passive house because it would then be “$10M more expensive.” Passive house is really designed for residential structures and there’s no way to determine how it would affect greenhouse gas savings in this type of building. The Midvale site is designed LEED Gold.

The Midvale location is centrally located and has less impact on neighborhoods than it would at the SD property. And investing a large amount of money on a site the City doesn’t own, even with a 50 year lease, is taking an unnecessary risk. We could have the same problem we have with the senior center and the Historical Museum. Both were SD buildings that needed to move.

Construction on the SD property was going to be quite challenging.

Additionally, there were conditions on the SD property and parking was a distance away. Midvale is more accessible by public transportation.

Bond measure size and duration

How long will the building last? Maybe we should use 30 years and include some of the park issues? How long does the public want to carry that debt?

Unfortunately, the interest rate goes up if you go to 30 years. CAC is only thing being discussed now. It is possible if the SD gives $2.4M could we reduce the bond by that amount. But we won’t know about the KingCo. Levy. It is possible that there will be a lot of private fundraising, but we can’t reduce the bond amount betting on private fundraising.

A lot of people are “aging at home” and are not cash rich. Even $50/month can be too much for people on a limited income. Even $20/month could be the breaking point.

When you look at the numbers comparing a 20 to a 30 year bond, the total interest paid is higher on a 30 year term. The average annual payment is a little less, but over the additional 10 years it’s $30MM more.

We need to fund the full amount but be aware that $5-10 might be tremendously important to many benefitted by having the extra money. 20 years is preferable but should not be the deciding measure.

It is financially responsible to retire the debt sooner which would also help future Councils. With the debt gone, they can move on to other priorities that arise.

We should reduce the amount and advise the SD that they should be funding the increases that are improvements to serve the entire competitive swim programs and local SD. Why should Shoreline taxpayers pay for those increases? If we reduce the bond measure, the SD may feel more pressure to ante up. We should also include the KingCo levy. By showing we don’t have it fully funded, we are showing our need for the levy funds. We can tell the taxpayers we are looking at other revenue streams. This will show potential private contributors that we need more money, instead of asking for donations to fund a fully funded project.

4 to 3 in favor of 20 year term

6 to 1 in favor using full amount

Timing

There has been plenty of outreach and plenty of response so a November ballot does not seem too soon. The current pool is on its last legs.

2020 is a presidential year so more people vote, but every delay increases the cost.

We need to make sure this is a standalone. If there are other local measures, this would be an even higher lift .

Staff presents the right time for a bond when it has its best chance of passing.

We need to take advantage of momentum.

The Council 100% in favor of November date.

Park Improvements

We need to include the parks because we need parks for our growing population. We need to find ways to fund and improve our parks.

But the price tag for CAC is so high and yes, we need more parks, but added to this, it will be too much.

We should rely on grant funding for parks.In a few years look at a park improvement.

We are talking about improvements to four parks. No major land purchase and some areas really need work, especially this list of 4. They missed the last park bond. This is a little increase on a big ask.

It could be two separate ballots but don’t want them to be competing.

Need to keep it simple on the ballot. Don’t make voters decide between parks and pool.

Hillwood Park always get put aside.It’s a wetland, and there is nothing to draw people there unless you want to play soccer in the mud. But more people will use the pool/rec center.

We don’t want ballot confusion. More people go to parks than the pool but no one wants to threaten this big landmark.

Moved to June 24, Discussion. Last time for public comment.

Scheduled for adoption on July 29th,

Meeting adjourned at 8:50pm.



Read more...

Classified: Shoreline Parks and Tree Board meeting Thursday

Monday, May 20, 2019

The Shoreline Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services / Tree Board regular meeting will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2019 at Shoreline City Hall Room 303, 17500 Midvale Ave N, 7pm.

The board will be updated on the Community and Aquatics Center planning and the Public Arts planning and funding plan.







Read more...

Parks board to discuss and possibly take action on funding committee recommendation for Community and Aquatic Center

Saturday, April 20, 2019

Community and Aquatic Center design proposal


Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services/Tree Board Meeting
Date: Thursday, 4/25/2019 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Shoreline City Hall Conference Room 303
17500 Midvale Ave N Shoreline 98133

Agenda Highlights
  • Special Events Discussion
  • Parks Funding Advisory Committee Final Recommendation Discussion (Possible Action)
Link to Full Meeting Packet

Comment on Agenda Items



Read more...

Shoreline Parks/ Tree board meeting Thursday will hear recommendations of funding advisory committee

Thursday, March 28, 2019

Thursday, March 28, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Shoreline City Hall Conference Room 303
17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline 98133

Agenda Highlights
  • King County Library System Annual Report
  • 185th Street Multimodal Corridor Strategy
  • Parks Funding Advisory Committee Final Recommendation
Link to Full Meeting Packet



Read more...

City and School District in discussion about siting Community Center on school district property

Saturday, March 2, 2019

School district property on 1st Ave NE proposed for the CAC


By Diane Hettrick

The City of Shoreline and Shoreline Public Schools are in discussion about the siting of the new Community and Aquatics Center (CAC).

At the February 25, 2019 meeting of the school board, Athletics Director Don Dalziel and Superintendent Rebecca Miner updated the board on the current discussions.

At stake for the school district is the future of their high school swimming and diving programs. The CAC proposed by the City provided inadequate facilities for the swim teams - one of the few non-cut sports in high school.

The school district is offering a 50 year lease on their land north of the Shoreline Center for the CAC. To meet the City's needs, the land offer would include the property the current pool sits on, the tennis courts, rest rooms, and maintenance buildings, all of which would need to be relocated.

The school board approved proceeding with the discussions.

The City Council will take it up at their meeting on Monday, March 4th, with an item added to their agenda:

Agenda Item 7.c (Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Contract Amendment with WRNS Studio in the Amount of $45,000 for the Shoreline Community and Aquatics Center Alternative Site Analysis) has been added.
On February 25, 2019 the Shoreline School Board offered school district owned property as a potential location for the CAC.  This contract amendment would provide information necessary for the City to compare the 17828 Midvale Avenue N site with the site offered by the school district.

The original City planning called for the purchase of the storage facility near City Hall as the site of the CAC.




Read more...

Notes from Community and Aquatics Center open house

Monday, December 3, 2018

Community and aquatic center open house
Photo courtesy City of Shoreline


Shoreline Community and Aquatics Center

PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE NOTES
By Diane Finafrock

A public open house was held on Wednesday, November 28, 2018 at Shoreline City Hall to present the design concept for the Community and Aquatics Center planned on Midvale, near City Hall.

Eric Friedli, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services, made a brief presentation along with WRNS Studio consultants and City staff, followed by 60 minutes of questions and answers.

The room was packed, with an estimated 150-200 people in attendance. Many asked questions about lack of accommodations for high school swim teams and for the senior center.

Repeated themes heard during the open house include the expressed need for:

1. 8-lane competitive pool
2. Diving well
3. Large aquatics spectator viewing area
4. Designated Senior Center space
5. Commercial kitchen

The current budget for the center is $80 M which allows no money for a diving well or competition level swimming pool.
 No dedicated senior center facilities are planned for the Center. City Council will ultimately set the amount to be spent on the Center and voters will have to approve a bond.

The pool planned for the Center will have six lanes 7 feet wide and 25 yards long.

Park at Town Center Plan
 

The Center will be part of a planned pedestrian area for our city which includes the park in front of City Hall. They plan to keep the historical red bricks. The city plans to revamp the park along the Interurban Trail in this City Center area adding playful centers. The land belongs to City Light, so no permanent structures can be placed there, but there is still a lot that can be done.

Design concept for Community and Aquatics center

For the Center, there will be a courtyard in front center of three community buildings. The building on the north side is a gym with a jogging track above. The Pool will be southeast with community rooms southwest. These south area rooms will be more intimate space which will open to a beautiful forested area on the south of property.

There will be rooms for community events including weddings. It will be a civic core space to benefit from access from the trail. Based on feedback received during the summer, they are adding a play structure in the courtyard. Also people want the market to come back to the area. The land is in the Boeing Creek watershed and a tributary of Boeing Creek is beneath the area which could be daylighted.

Courtyard scheme plan and views

The architect showed pictures of the entrance which they like to call the "living room," which will look down into the pool. The entrance will expand through from the front courtyard area to the back doors onto the parking lot.

QUESTIONS AND RESPONSES

Asked to place the importance of Senior Center, Friedli said "a 10, knowing our audience." The jogging track and community center offers space. "If we had more money, we could add more" similar to facilities at the existing Senior Center.

Patron mentioned that the senior center has a commercial kitchen that now serves lunch for $4. Response was kitchen could be added in future, like 10 years.

Why do we have to put so much into landscaping and not put more to building a competition level swimming pool? 
The amount of landscaping has been reduced from the original design and that remaining is not a significant part of the budget.

How was the determination made for the design ... Things were put out in neighborhoods.

Can there be private donations? Yes of course, but doubtful that we would receive another $20M.

Suggestions made to visit the Lynnwood Recreation Center as it was done really well. Another stated to take a look more at Snohomish Center which is much better than Lynnwood.

SWHS swim coach Suzie mentioned that they need spectator space for their competitions and no bulkhead, plus eight lanes. Lynn spoke of how swim is one of two non-cut sports in district which is important to kids.

Another stated "Let's not miss the boat here and miss our chance to get what we need now and for the future..."


The Aquatic facility will be bigger than Shoreline pool but yes lap pool is less.

Person mentioned that seniors love jogging track and pool but need a place to just be and socialize ...
The current senior center is run by an outside agency - Sound Generations - who needs to step up with city.

Consider an L shape for the pool. Cascade Swim pays lots of money to pools and so surprised not taking that into consideration.

Water polo needs 5 feet deep. Now they get pool time at 9pm.

Was asked if School District has been asked about project?
 Eric admitted that the district has been silent and not participating.

Several mentioned that they have not received any neighborhood notices of this project. Notices were given to neighbors, Secret Shoreline, workshops, and focus groups from swim groups too.

Person stated thinks will need more parking ...
Again not enough money. Open surface structure costs $25,000/spot compared to $2,000 for surface parking spaces. Yes of course can use the City Hall parking down road.

Asked if we have to have two basketball courts ...
Yes that is what we have now at Spartan Gym and it is all used by various different activities (volleyball, pickleball, badminton, jazzerize, and many other activities and events).

The budget started at $75M and went up to $80M, it's up to Council to go beyond.

Again brought up more about a competition lap pool to accommodate all these four classes of 60 kids. Plus need a diving well.
 Then a parent of swim student mentioned that we need to get District on board.

Someone asked who owns pool. The pool is owned by the city, but the property is owned by the school district. Right now there is a joint operating agreement for pool use with no money changing hands.

Asked if we needed all the outdoor space ... The outdoor space responded to what people requested in responses.

Asked about property ownership of the new site ... In July Council went to property owner. City Manager is currently negotiating for purchase of property.

Asked if surveys covered demographics. 
Random telephone survey outreach done two years ago. Recently did dots survey at Swingin Summer Eve and Celebrate Shoreline.

Eric ended by saying that the current Shoreline pool is very expensive to run. It's the largest natural gas user in the area. Currently its revenue is about $1.2M and the new pool should also bring in $1.2M year in revenue.

The City's notes about feedback at the meeting are HERE.

The City's information page on the project is HERE.



Read more...

Public open house to share community and aquatics center concept design

Sunday, November 25, 2018



The City of Shoreline will hold a public open house on Wednesday, November 28, 2018 to share the concept design for the planned Community and Aquatics Center.

The Center will be located near City Hall on Midvale on land currently occupied by a large one story storage unit facility.

The open house will be held from 6 to 8pm with a brief presentation at 6:15pm.

The design, which was prompted by the failing condition of the Shoreline Pool, does not include a diving well or a pool big enough for the high school swim teams, nor does it have accommodations for the Senior Center.

It does expand on facilities currently available at the Spartan Center, which it would replace, and a "leisure pool and lap lanes." Also, an indoor jogging track, fitness facilities, and a two court gym.

More information is available HERE

A Parks Funding Advisory Committee has been appointed and is currently meeting.

Committee Members
  • Donald Bell
  • David Chen
  • Bill Franklin
  • Philip Herold
  • Joan Herrick
  • Jean Hilde 
  • Carolyn Hope
  • Julian Larson
  • Jeff Potter
  • Esaac Mazengia
  • Sara Raab McInerny
  • Yvette Perez
  • Betsy Robertson
  • Cecelia Romero
  • Nan Skinner
  • Sally Wolf

Contact for more information: Email: shorelineparks@shorelinewa.gov or 206-801-2600



Read more...
ShorelineAreaNews.com
Facebook: Shoreline Area News
Twitter: @ShorelineArea
Daily Email edition (don't forget to respond to the Follow.it email)

  © Blogger template The Professional Template II by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP