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Photos from Ronald Bog Park and Pacific NW Conifer Arboretum

Thursday, July 30, 2020

Steve Robinson took a stroll through Ronald Bog Park, which opened to the public on Monday, July 27, 2020 and photographed scenes from the park, as well as some of the informational posters.




All the paths are gravel. The fence is around the critical area. The sculpture is called The Kiss. It was moved as part of the renovation. It's owned by King county.


The sign very politely tells people to keep out. The critical area will be a functional wetland. Check it in October when it's raining.


Some of the park's history, including how it was saved and named a park by a group of local women in the 1970s nicknamed the "kitchen activists."


Inside the critical area.


During the rainy season (which is most of the year) most of this area will be wet and when there is a lot of rain, there may be a small pond in the middle.


The picnic shelter was rebuilt but the mossy roof is the same. It sits right between the two zones and is right next to the lake. The designers wanted to have a section where visitors could get next to the water.


This talks about the importance of wetlands and about some of the critters that inhabit Ronald Bog. 


Inviting pathway.


The Conifer Arboretum was well established on the site. The information sign is new and the pathways have been greatly improved. You can learn about and see all the different types of conifers. Looks like a future Shoreline Walks or Tree Walks.


Several varieties of conifers flank the sign.


Conifers are trees that have cones. For more details, here is the webpage for the American Conifer Society.

All photos by Steven H. Robinson



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Ronald Bog Park is open

Tuesday, July 28, 2020


Photos by John Boril

Ronald Bog Park reopened for public use on Monday, July 27, 2020.
 
Sound Transit completed construction of their wetland mitigation project which added one acre of new wetland and enhanced over two acres of wetland buffer area with native vegetation and invasive species removal.

The shelter was refurbished
but you could still graze goats on the roof
 

The Kiss sculpture was relocated out of the mitigation area and new pathways were added from the parking lot to the shelter, to view the wetland areas, and through the Rotary Club arboretum.

Sound Transit is responsible for maintenance and monitoring of the mitigation wetlands and buffer area for a period of ten years to meet federal permitting requirements.

The geese are enjoying the park. They are a lot of fun
to watch - but DO NOT FEED THEM.


The goal of the project was to replace, within the same impacted watershed, the wetland functions and habitat lost with the filling of a few smaller wetlands on the east side of I-5 that could not be avoided.

The wetland and buffer are reserved for the new plants and wildlife that will make their home here.

Keep to the paths and lawn
 
Visitors are asked to enjoy this new natural area from the trails and lawn areas of the park.

This was a major undertaking which necessitated digging out huge chunks of concrete with intertwined tree roots which had been buried under the grass for decades.

The park is located on N 175th between Meridian and I-5.



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Shoreline 175th Street Corridor Improvements Project survey

Friday, July 17, 2020

N 175th and Meridian by Ronald Bog
A roundabout would require removing new sidewalks
Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

N 175th St is one of Shoreline's busiest roads and connects Aurora, I-5, and 15th Ave NE. Traffic on the corridor will continue to increase as the city grows and regional transit expands.

The goal of the City of Shoreline is to make N 175th St easier, safer, and more predictable for people walking, using a wheelchair, pushing a stroller, biking, driving, and taking transit. As such, traffic planners have been working to identify transportation needs to meet the demands of a growing community.

Since engaging the community in spring 2019, they have developed two design concepts for the corridor as well as two design concepts for improvements to the intersection at N 175th St and Meridian Ave N:a roundabout intersection option and an improved signalized intersection option.

The concepts are based on the feedback received from people who live along the corridor, local businesses, Meridian Park Elementary School, community organizations, and people who travel on N 175th St.

Share your feedback on the design concepts and how you think the designs rank against the key evaluation criteria.

This is the most critical stage of the process for you to let us know your thoughts on the concepts and what you think is missing.

The survey is HERE and closes on August 9.





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Notes from Shoreline Council meeting July 13, 2020

Thursday, July 16, 2020

Pam Cross, reporter

Shoreline City Council Meeting
July 13, 2020

Notes by Pam Cross

The meeting was held online using the Zoom platform.

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

Report of the City Manager. Debbie Tarry

COVID-19 Update

We remain in Phase 2 of Washington State’s Start Safe Plan. Because King County, as well as the State, is seeing an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, Governor Inslee directs us to take the following preventative measures:
  • Wear a face covering when you are in public places, including outdoors when you may be unable to maintain six feet of distance.
  • Wash or sanitize your hands regularly.
  • Avoid large gatherings.
  • Get tested at the first sign of illness.
  • And remember, it’s still safest to stay at home.

In parks, basketball courts should not be used for scrimmages or games. They are available for use by an individual to shoot baskets. We have seen the courts used for multiple player games, and people removing the caution tape and closed signs.

Details at shorelinewa.gov/covid

Summer Events 2020 for July
  • Bingo - a new card each week
  • Yard art contest - enter by July 17
  • Virtual concert - Eric Ode July 21.
More information available at shorelinewa.gov/summer2020

Shoreline Climate Challenge

This fun and easy event is now through October 31, 2020. Learn about and implement actions to protect our environment. There are activities for youth and for renters.

You can create your household profile and view your footprint, create or join a team with friends and neighbors, or choose from a list of actions and earn points.There is special recognition for the team with the most points. Visit ShorelineClimateChallenge.org for information.

Shoreline Farmers Market

The market will be open on Saturdays through October 3rd at 155th and Westminster Way near the prior location. Current health and safety guidelines limit the number of shoppers at one time, mandate face coverings, prohibit pets except service animals, and encourage pre-orders. Additional information: shorelinefarmersmarket.org

Public Reminders

Planning Commission will hold a remote meeting on Thursday July 16th for a Public Hearing on Community Renewal Area (CRA) Sign Code Update.To participate in public comment, go to shorelinewa.gov/calendar

The following visitors from King County expressed their gratitude to the City of Shoreline for its support of the Assessment and Recovery Center (isolation site) that stood as a model for the nation: Councilmember Rod Dembowski, Leo Flor Director of Community and Human Services, and Patty Hayes, Director of Public Health.

Council Reports

Councilmember Roberts was one of the AWC (Association of Washington Cities) representatives at the annual conference. They amended their policy statement to “a balanced and bold approach” is essential to balance protecting the environment, allowing for expanding populations, and providing necessary economic and social opportunities. This shows strong support for strengthening the environmental section.

Councilmember Roberts was also the City’s representative for the PSRC (Puget Sound Regional Council) annual meeting where they re-elected their officers and adopted maintaining current dues.

Councilmember Robertson. PSRC Economic Development District Board updated strategic plan “Amazing Place” for 2022. Every aspect is looked at through a COVID-19 filter. One discussion focused on the need for universal broadband for such things as remote work, tele-health, and remote learning. A regional approach is necessary.

The North King County Shelter Task Force had their first meeting. They established the goal of going beyond just providing a shelter to providing services to get residents into permanent housing. There is a King County Commerce grant of $11M over 3 years, but because it is for the entire county, it won’t go too far. Colleen Kelly, Shoreline's Community Services Manager, will be getting a proposal together since the application is due before the next scheduled Task Force meeting.

Proclamation 
(Mayor Hall mentioned that Council rules provide for two different kinds of Proclamations. Some are calendared and noted in the Agenda, others are made by the the Mayor and mentioned for transparency.) 

September 2020 is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, an annual international awareness month to raise support, funding and awareness of childhood cancers and the impact for sufferers and families of sufferers of childhood cancer.

Public Comment

Dan Adams commented about the pending closure of Shoreline Pool. He would like to know the actual technical reasons for the decision to not repair the pool.

Approval of the Agenda adopted by unanimous consent.

The Consent Calendar approved unanimously by roll call vote.

Action Item 8(a) Adoption of Ordinance No. 890 - Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 2.60 Purchasing

Sara Lane, Administrative Services Director, gave the staff report

Last discussed at the Council’s June 15, 2020 meeting, monetary limits related to services, materials, supplies, and equipment have not been updated to reflect a changing economy. In addition, several “housekeeping” amendments are needed to reflect current practices and to provide clarity and consistency. The City is expending significant effort for what have become relatively small contracts. It should also be noted that these contracts are being awarded to projects or programs that already have an approved budget.

The purpose of this discussion is to present staff’s response to questions raised at the June 15th meeting.

The reasons for increasing thresholds include inflation, increased opportunities and competition for smaller businesses on these smaller contracts, and time savings resulting in faster project delivery.

Staff can develop a Council Contract Report in the upgraded system in 2021 so Councilmembers are aware of the activity.

DISCUSSION

Councilmembers have faith in staff to make these decisions and see no need for micromanaging the process. There is Council oversight at the appropriate level.

VOTE

Ordinance approved by 6-1 vote with Deputy Mayor Scully opposed.


Action Item 8(b) Adoption of Resolution No. 462 – Updating the Employee Handbook Furlough and Layoff Policy

Don Moritz, Human Resources Director, provided the staff report

The work environment has changed dramatically since the policies were written 2011. In order to maintain a balanced budget, and with minimal impact to City operations and employees, policies are needed to provide flexibility to respond to rapidly changing external forces.

COVID-19 has highlighted this need for policy changes to the layoff policy, strengthening management’s right to implement a reduction in force. These proposed changes affirm and clarify due process rights for employees who are impacted by a layoff. A section defining furlough and outlining its impact and application is also proposed.

At the June 12 the meeting, Council requested that staff prepare options for changes in severance pay and information about the policies of other cities.

(1) The current severance package provides 4 weeks of pay and a cash-out of 10% of accrued sick leave, regardless of years of service.

(2) Proposed graduated benefits based on years of service


(3) An alternative provides 2 weeks of salary for every 5 years of service up to a maximum of 10 weeks.

The current estimated costs of these three packages based on current staffing
  1. Current 4 weeks without years of services: $25,554
  2. 2-12 weeks depending on years of service: $41,590
  3. 2-10 weeks depending on years of service: $37,793
Basing severance on years of service rewards commitment to the organization as demonstrated by those years of service while recognizing the difficulty in obtaining a new job at an older age with several years at one employer.

The City wants to be recognized as fair and supportive of employees. At the same time, the Council must be a good steward of taxpayer dollars

DISCUSSION

Motion and second to adopt the Resolution, but amended to delete changes to severance (leaving severance at current rate of 4 weeks regardless of years of service).

It isn’t always true that newer employees can find a job in 2 weeks or that it’s more difficult for longer term employees. Two weeks doesn’t seem adequate after 4 years experience and possible additional education or training, and yet 4 weeks seems like a lot for someone who’s only been there a year. Long-term employees might receive a higher salary so their total severance package could be larger. Or a 20 year employee might possibly be at a lower pay grade so their compensation would not be higher.

Shoreline would be the only city offering this much severance based on years of service. Layoffs would be a last resort so it is likely large severance packages would be too costly for the City budget.

Is it typical to base employment practices based on a person’s age. Reply: No. There are some based on tenure, not on age.

Other jurisdictions:
  • How many pay more than 1 month severance for involuntary layoff. Reply: only one: Marysville pays a flat $5,000. None pays 3 months.
  • Does any local city/county provide severance salary for more than 1 month? Reply: no
  • Did staff consult with the MRSC (Municipal Research Services Center) for their advice? Reply: no

The MRSC does not recommend severance pay. As a public entity, offering severance is not in the best interests of the entity. This is the public’s money, not the City’s. With costs associated with the existing pool, COVID expenses, and possible elimination of programs, should we be increasing layoff costs? Layoffs are hard. Unemployment doesn’t replace a full salary, but the City pays 100% of the unemployment tax. This program should be utilized by laid off workers.

The US Government severance package provides one week of pay for each full year of creditable service through 10 years; and two weeks of pay for each full year of creditable service beyond 10 years. There is also an age adjustment allowance for those over 40 years of age.

Is a severance package useful in recruiting employees? Reply: that is certainly not the intent. It is not used as recruiting tool. (“We offer great severance in case you ever get laid off!”) However, potential employees do look at the entire package of benefits, financial security and get an impression of how the employer treats its employees.

VOTE: on the amendment retaining 4 weeks severance

The motion fails by a vote of 2-5, with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor voting affirmative.

Motion and second to adopt the Resolution, but amended to the alternative providing 2 weeks of salary for every 5 years of service up to a maximum of 10 weeks (instead of 12).

The cost is still high, but employee morale suffers without a severance package.

Will there be an employee satisfaction survey this year? Reply: yes, in August.

Regarding current length of service, is it typical that most (60%) employees have been there 5 years or less? Reply: it depends on the size of the organization and the room for advancement. Since Shoreline is smaller with less advancement opportunities as a result, more turnover is normal. Another consideration is the salary structure and how long it takes to get to the top of the salary range. With the City’s growth and more opportunities, employee retention will be better. But that could take a long time. In the meantime, the number of employees qualifying for the most weeks of severance is reduced.

VOTE: on the amendment retaining years of service but changing to maximum 10 weeks

Motion passes 4-3 with Councilmembers McGlashan, Roberts, and Mayor Hall voting in the minority.

VOTE: on the Resolution main motion “as amended”

Resolution, as amended, passes 6-1 with Mayor Hall dissenting.


Study Item 9(a) Discussion of COVID-19 Pandemic Projected City Budget Impact Update

Staff report provided by Sara Lane, Administrative Services Director, and Rick Kirkwood, Budget Supervisor

On April 20, 2020, staff presented Council with an initial estimate of the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the City’s budget. The scenarios presented in April showed a $2.4M to $5.6M projected range of reduced revenue in 2020 with uncertainty about the depth of a recession and length of the recovery.



Current estimates anticipate the impact of COVID-19 to result in a $6.2M shortfall in the 2020 operating budget and a $3.7M shortfall in the 2021-2022 operating budget. This does not include use of the Revenue Stabilization Fund.

The Revenue Stabilization Fund was created in late 2007 as an outcome of the revised reserve policy adopted by the City Council earlier in 2007. The Revenue Stabilization Fund will accumulate a reserve equal to thirty percent (30%) of annual economically sensitive revenues within the City’s operating budget to cover revenue shortfalls resulting from unexpected economic changes or recessionary periods. (from Shoreline website)

This discussion provides Council an opportunity to: (i) discuss the City Manager’s recommendation to address the 2020 revenue shortfall; (ii) respond to the City Manager’s recommendation that the City not reopen the Shoreline Pool and cease operating the facility as a City program which would reduce the shortfall for the 2021-2022 operating budget from $3.7M to $2M. The Revenue Stabilization Fund (rainy day fund) could be used to further address this shortfall. And (iii) discuss other issues related to early formation of the 2021-2022 biennial budget.

Other options for pool:

The Shoreline School District will be discussing the possibility of taking over operations during their Board meeting in July; other organizations may also be interested. Staff will continue to evaluate options for transferring operations to another agency/organization.

Questions for discussion
  • Should the City cease operating the Shoreline Pool?
  • Should the City demolish the Pool in 2021 if another operator is not identified?
  • Should the City use the Revenue Stabilization Fund to address short-term revenue losses in 2021-2022?
DISCUSSION:

The figures presented include a 10% property tax delinquency rate, which is higher than normal. When would the delinquency be collected from the homeowner? Reply: when the property is sold or when the homeowner catches up. We do not accrue those taxes so the impact is on the year it is not paid.

Do these figures anticipate any additional support from the Federal Government? 
Reply: Any additional federal money would go to offset direct COVID-19 costs that were not anticipated in the budget.

These figures will be updated as additional information becomes available.

Have we used the Revenue Stabilization Fund before? 
Reply: no. We budgeted to use it, but it wasn’t necessary. If we use it now, it would likely only be used for short-term revenue shortfalls.

The Shoreline Pool has been a drain on resources for a very long time. But why are we in such a rush to spend $1M in 2021 to demolish the pool if we can’t find a viable alternative to operate it? And where would this money come from? 
Reply: it would be a one-time budget request.

But where would this money come from? 
Reply: it could be a capital budget. It could be money we have set aside for maintenance. Funding the demolition is an issue we would have to discuss.

But maybe we should wait before demolishing it. The cost is only $4,500. 
Reply: We can’t just let the pool sit. The cost to “mothball it” is $4,500 plus $150,000 each year in utilities and staffing to sustain the systems and the structure. Remember that the building is on property that belongs to the School District so that they have an interest.

The fact is the City has agonized over the funding and maintenance of this pool for at least the seven years. The reality is that this pool is past its useful life. Whether or not the community decides to move forward with a new pool now or later, it is unrelated to the decision to demolish the old pool. And since COVID-19 is not going away this summer, and may in fact still be here months from now, it would not be cost effective to try to keep it open on a limited use basis.

We are fortunate to have the Revenue Stabilization Fund but its intended use is for short-term revenue loss rather than for an extended period of time. If used for all of the COVID-19 fallout, the fund will eventually be exhausted.


Study Item 9(b) Discussion of the 175th Corridor Project

The staff report was provided by Tricia Juhnke, City Engineer and Leif Johansen, Capital Project Manager

Staff presented a brief project update to Council, including a summary of public outreach and development of design concepts.The 175th Street corridor is one of Shoreline’s most active east-west arterials. It connects the city’s busiest north-south roadways: State Route 99/Aurora Avenue N, I-5 and 15th Avenue NE.

This project has been ongoing since 2011 and is the first project where we will use the Transportation Impact Fees to partially fund it. We kicked off the design in 2019 followed by the first phase of outreach resulting in the development of concept plans. We are now in phase 2 of outreach to share those concept plans. The design concepts are outlined in the staff report.

There are two intersection concepts for Meridian and 175th. The first is revised traffic signage and the second is a two-lane roundabout. The use of a roundabout will improve safety and operations and has lower operating costs. However, it has a greater impact on Ronald Bog because more land is required, and it does not tie into the new sidewalks at the elementary school. Those sidewalks would have to be demolished and redesigned.



Current Budget and funding:

The project is currently funded through the design phase by approx. $3.5M WSDOT Surface Transportation Program and approximately $500,000 in Transportation Impact Fees (TIF). An additional $4M TIF is available for property acquisition and match for grants.

Public Outreach schedule:
  • Virtual meetings with impacted property owners is ongoing
  • Online open house is now available: July 6 - August 10
  • Public meeting webinar: July 29 6PM - 7PM
  • Virtual stakeholder meetings will be scheduled in August
Information and survey: https://175corridor.participate.online/

The project schedule stretches beyond 2025.



DISCUSSION

These are preliminary designs so discussion will be more salient once outreach has been conducted.


Study Item 9 (c) Discussion of Ordinance No. 892 – Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 13.12, Floodplain Management

Andrew Bauer, Senior Planner made the presentation

Regulations and flood maps are used to manage development within the floodplain. The floodplain maps are routinely updated. The last update was in 2012. New maps are coming out August 19th.



Amending the floodplain management regulations including use of the new maps will ensure the City remains a participating community in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), allowing residents and businesses to purchase flood insurance. There are about 110 affected properties in Shoreline. (Puget Sound shoreline, Ronald Bog, Thornton Creek watershed, and Boeing Creek). Property owners in these floodplains were contacted in April and May, and there is a planned notice in July/August to inform the stakeholders of the new maps.

DISCUSSION

Are tsunamis covered by the NFIP? 
Reply: no

Is sea level rise considered in their modeling? 
Reply: no. They are limited to the use of historical data.

Ordinance to come back on Consent calendar.

Meeting adjourned.




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Notes from Shoreline City Council meeting June 15, 2020

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Pam Cross, reporter


Shoreline City Council Meeting
June 15, 2020
Notes by Pam Cross

The meeting was held online using the Zoom platform.

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

Report of the City Manager, Debbie Tarry

Shoreline Small Business Support Grant
  • Applications are open until noon, June 22nd, for grants up to $20,000.
  • Qualifying businesses must have fewer than 25 employees, have been in business since July 1, 2019, have their physical location in a Shoreline commercial zone, and have experienced a loss of income due to COVID-19. More than thirty applications have already been received.
  • To apply or for additional information: shorelinewa.gov/business/covid-19-business-resources
Shoreline Farmers Market
  • The market will be open on Saturdays through October 3rd at 155th and Westminster Way near the prior location.
  • New health and safety guidelines limit the number of shoppers at one time, mandate face coverings, prohibit pets except service animals, and encourage pre-orders.
  • For additional information: shorelinefarmersmarket.org
King County is now in Phase 1.5 of the Safe Start Plan.
  • This allows outdoor gatherings of 5 people from outside the household, outdoor recreation per Phase 2, in-store retail, personal and professional services, pet grooming, restaurants at 25% capacity for indoor dining and 50% capacity for outdoor dining, and construction per Phase 2.
  • Details at shorelinewa.gov/covid
  • Today King County applied for Phase 2.
  • Please continue hand washing, practice social distancing, wear a face mask, and limit groups to 5 or fewer people from outside the household.
Public Reminders
  • The Planning Commission will meet remotely on Thursday, June 18th at 7:00pm. Discussion will be Ground Floor Commercial Development Code. You can sign up to provide comment at Planning Commission meeting June 18
Council Reports

Deputy Mayor Scully and Commissioner Chang had an informational meeting with County Councilmember Rod Dembowski about some potential County Charter amendments and other items relative to police accountability.

Public Comment

The following speakers supported the staff recommendation for funding of park improvements:
  • Bill Franklin, Shoreline
  • Janet Way, Shoreline
  • Katie Schielke, Shoreline, President of the Board of Kruckeberg Botanic Garden
Approval of the Agenda adopted by unanimous consent.
  • The Consent Calendar adopted unanimously by roll call vote.
Action Item 8(a)

Authorizing the City Manager to execute agreements for the purchase of two properties adjacent to Paramount Open Space Park, 14528 and 14534 10th Ave NE.

Nathan Daum, Economic Development Program Manager, gave the presentation

He presented a brief summary of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan that was adopted in 2017. Its goal was to prepare for future demand resulting from the coming light rail and the increase in the number of Shoreline residents. Staff considered the City’s targeted level of service that created the desire for 95 additional acres citywide with 43 additional acres in the light rail station subareas. They targeted 5 acres of new park land by 2023 in order to expand dog walking and other trail-related activities, and improve the urban forest. Secured funding was provided by the City’s Park Impact Fees collected from developers.

Listed among the PROS Plan priorities was Paramount Open Space expansion. The proposed expansion would allow the preservation of existing trees, planting of new trees, expansion of wetlands, and improvements to streams. It also allows park access from 10th Ave NE. The City has the opportunity to acquire approximately one-third of an acre of property, in two parcels adjacent to the Paramount Open Space Park, willingly sold by the two property owners.

The total independently appraised cost for the two parcels is $1,114,000, of which the City has received $557,000 in King County Conservation Futures Tax (CFT) grant funding. The City would be required to fund the remaining $557,000. There is approximately $900,000 in collected Park Impact Fees (PIF) not yet allocated and available to support the purchase of the properties.

The City Council will also be determining whether the City should submit a ballot measure for voter consideration to fund park improvements and/or park property acquisition. If approved by voters, the proceeds from the bond measure could also be used toward the purchase of the properties.

Because this is the first time the proposal has appeared on the agenda, Mayor Hall opened for public comment. No comments except as seen under general comments.

Discussion

This is a great and exciting opportunity for a natural area that also provides access to the park from 10th Ave NE. There are two willing sellers and half of the cost is covered by CFT grant. This is the second time we have expanded this park in the past 26 years.

(Note: This was the topic of last week's Executive Session which may account for the limited discussion.)

Vote: proposal passed unanimously 7-0.

Study Items

Study Item 9(a) Discussing the Sound Transit Lynnwood Link Extension Project Update

Juniper Nammi, Light Rail Project Manager for City of Shoreline, introduced the speakers from Sound Transit
Randy Harlow, Executive Project Director, and
Erik Ashlie-Vinke, Government and Community Relations Manager

Significant progress has been made in the construction permitting process. Multiple permits are required for the land use, guideways (Guideways refer to the elevated transit structures), station and garage buildings. After that there will be plumbing/mechanical and fire system permits that will be secured by the contractors.

There are some remaining items for Council:
  • Modification of plat restrictions or covenants related to city-owned property
  • Additional street vacations and intergovernmental property transfers,
  • Property exchange agreements, and
  • Additional agreements or agreement amendments.

COVID-19 has had an impact on construction progress and the impacts are still being assessed. Construction slowed, additional health safety measures had to be implemented, and revenue projections have to be reviewed.

Early work in 2019 included finishing clearing and grubbing (Grubbing is defined as removing and disposing of all unwanted vegetative matter from underground, such as stumps, roots, buried logs, and other debris) and construction of access roads. Utility relocations have begun, and the Ronald Bog Mitigation is essentially complete.

Major construction 2020-2023 will include drilled shafts, columns, girders, walls, track-work, stations and garages, and systems installation.

We will be soon be seeing the NE 185th street undercrossing and 5th Ave NE realignment, the roundabout construction at NE 185h and 10th Ave NE, closing 195th St bridge, Ridgecrest Park parking lot construction, McAleer Creek environmental restoration, and continuing utility relocations. Work will continue drilling shafts, placing columns, placing walls, aerial hideaway girder placements.

Future activities include station and garage mechanical, electrical, plumbing and finish work, installation of track-work and systems, followed by hardscaping and landscaping.

Extensive Community Outreach makes it possible to respond to community complaints of dust and debris, speeding work vehicles, noise, vibration etc. There is a 24 hour construction hotline: 1-888-298-2395.

Discussion

How are they addressing graffiti on the sound walls?
Reply: the contractor has a dedicated work crew that removes graffiti, they have introduced a number of patrols to discourage it, and are talking with the Washington DOT for assistance in patrolling.

Council is excited at the progress and pleased with the name change of South Station to 148th from 145th.

9(b) Discussing Park Improvements and Property Acquisition Priorities and Funding

Eric Friedli, PRCS Department Director

Council goals for park improvements and land acquisition were discussed earlier tonight in Action Item 8(a). In 2018 the Council included improvements to four parks in the 2019 Proposition 1 general election ballot measure – Brugger’s Bog, Briarcrest (Hamlin Park), Richmond Highlands, and Hillwood. This decision followed months of parks study, stakeholder and community meetings, online comment forms, and a citizens advisory committee.

Strategic Action Initiative #3 of the PROS plan established the objective to “expand recreation facility opportunities by adding at least one community garden, two basketball courts, two multi-purpose/pickle-ball courts, one playground, one swing set, one paved loop path, one spray park, and one adventure playground.”

Strategic Action Initiative #7 established the objective to “ensure adequate parkland for future generations by adding five acres of new park land by 2023 and twenty additional acres by 2030.”

The priority park improvements part of the $103.6 million Proposition 1:


Proposition #1 received the majority of votes, but did not reach the 60% threshold in order to pass.

In May 2006, Shoreline voters approved a $18.8M parks and open space ballot measure. This was a 15-year measure, which provided funding for a number of park and recreational facility improvements and the acquisition of open space properties.

The final year of property tax collections for this bond measure is the end of 2021, as the bonds will be completely repaid by then.

Staff will be asking Council for guidance on next steps towards potentially placing a bond measure to replace parks funding before the voters. Several policy questions and four potential ballot measure alternatives were presented for discussion. One of the key issues for Council is to determine if the City should delay moving forward on a ballot measure until the impacts of COVID-19 are more fully understood on the local economy. This may mean delaying the issue until 2021.

Staff recommends a $38.5M bond measure to cover the priority park improvements, additional park amenities for other priority parks (James Keough and Kruckeberg Garden), park land acquisition, and improvements to acquired property. Staff prepared three alternatives and councilmembers had provided three additional alternatives prior to tonight.

Staff recommends the bond appear on the November 2020 General Election or the April 2021 Special Election ballot. There are arguments for each, such as the number of expected voters and other potential ballot measures.

Note: this meeting is for discussion only. No decision will be made tonight.

DISCUSSION

There is some fear that failure to purchase open space/parks land when it becomes available now, will result in the City’s loss of it to developers. Once the land is gone, it’s gone. Let’s get our current parks more functional before we start buying land for more. And we do have acquisitions in the pipeline.

We need to to highlight the biggest gaps in our current parks system and put our focus there. Some of our parks are fine. The priority parks were chosen after careful consideration and we should make sure they are all usable in the way people think about parks usage.

Kruckeberg Garden should be on the list because it’s really hard to navigate without ADA upgrades. We need parks that are walkable for times like this (COVID-19). Spending the money in the priority parks will spread it out in the community instead of congregating everyone in one park.

Removal of some of the bells and whistles in those priority parks would save money. We need to hunker down and watch our expenditures. But keeping park improvements cheap won’t make it a good proposal. We can’t nickel and dime the community by doing just a little now, then a little later, then a little more after that. We could reduce the monthly taxpayer bill by changing the term of the bond or increase the size of the bond.

If we try for the November General Election, we will be discussing this when everyone is still working from home. There is too much chaos in people's lives right now, and even April may be too soon. What if we have a resurgence of the virus in September or October? Recovery is taking a long time. The deadline to get the issue on the ballot in November, when we will presumably have more voters, is August 4, 2020. To get it on the April 2021 ballot, the deadline is February 9, 2021. 

Will we still be staying in our homes? Will unemployment have improved? Will the economy have rebounded? We don’t have enough information. Targeting the April ballot or later will give us time for things to settle down.

The parks board needs to be behind it in order to get this passed. Council wants to stay close to the parks department recommendation and as close as possible to the amount currently paid by residents. It’s important to remember that a $26M bond pales in comparison to the State tax for schools (not the School District charges), or the cost of Sound Transit.

Consensus:

Council is in favor of the April 2021 ballot or later. Most favor a $26M bond with some changes, or a slightly larger package for a term of 20 years or more.

Council asked staff go back to the parks board, and then bring it back to Council.

9(c) Discussion of Ordinance No. 890 - Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 2.60 Purchasing

Sara Lane, Administrative Services Director, gave the staff presentation

The City’s purchasing regulations, Shoreline Municipal Code (SMC) Chapter 2.60, was adopted in 2001, based on financial management policies that had been in place since the City’s incorporation. Since that time, while this chapter has been amended to reflect changes in statutory law and other housekeeping items, most recently on September 18, 2017, monetary limits related to services, materials, supplies, and equipment have not been updated to reflect a changing economy.

The highlights of the recommended increases to the threshold for the above:
  • Require RFP or RFQ (request for proposal or quotation) from $50,000 to $100,000
  • Require Council approval for services from $50,000 to $100,000
  • Require a submitted contract from $3,000 to $5,000
  • Require quotes on materials, supplies and equipment from $5,000 to 10,000
Additionally it adds an alternative process to award public works contracts as authorized by chapter 39.10 RCW, such as Job Order Contracting and Design/Build.

Proposed Ordinance No. 890 is scheduled to be brought back to Council for potential adoption on July 13, 2020.

DISCUSSION

There is always a concern about lack of transparency, but these changes will not decrease transparency. Instead it is a way to decrease cost by increasing efficiency. This is the first increase in about 20 years. It is not a huge increase and Council will still be involved in larger contract. Council has confidence in staff.

It makes sense to have some kind of increase. Was the amount of increase arbitrary? Council talked about it at the retreat so that may be where $100k came from. Are there a lot of contracts within the difference? Since this is unknown, we need a better case made for size of the increase. Reply: staff will research. There is a significant amount of time spent by staff to get ready to bring these items before Council, taking a minimum of 3 weeks. For public works this delay is a problem due to time sensitivity. The object is to save staff time and eliminate the 3 week delay. Public works projects are significantly higher and controlled by RCW.

How are vendors and services selected? How do we know we meet equity and other measures? Reply: it is a less formal procedure, but these requirements drive the level of competition, several quotes are compared, and they look for the best product at the best value. There is no requirement to prefer Shoreline based business, but it is their practice.

Could we adopt contract status reports that would give Council oversight without tying up the calendar?
Response: might be a challenge to provide the kind of detailed report wanted but they might be able to come up with something that will provide better reporting.

This will not come back on Consent due to some outstanding questions by Council. Scheduled to come back as an Action item July 13th.

Meeting adjourned.



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Hokey pokey

Monday, May 4, 2020

Photo at Ronald Bog
by Martin DeGrazia


You put your right foot in
you put your right foot out
you put your right foot in and you shake it all about

You do the Hokey Pokey and you turn yourself around
That's what it's all about!
Hey!




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Ronald Bog Park update

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The Sound Transit mitigation project to restore the wetlands at Ronald Bog Park, remove the chunks of cement from the grounds, and replant with native plants is starting to look like a park instead of a construction project!

The photos were taken within the week and show the progress and the growth that spring has brought to the park.

Rebecca McAndrew, Sound Transit Senior Environmental Planner reported:

Most of the work is finished at Ronald Bog. The contractor should be hydroseeding the lawn outside of the mitigation area this week. The ideal time to hydroseed is after March when there is no chance of frost. 

Hydroseeding will take place very soon
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


The three interpretive signs to be installed are almost done. The parking lot will need to be restriped and there could be a few other minor things that need to be done before the park is reopened. 

The sandbag wall will be removed
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


The sandbag wall (also called a cofferdam) isolates the work area from the rest of the pond so sediment-laden water (stirred up while the contractor disturbs soil) doesn’t enter the main pond and flow downstream on the North Branch of Thornton Creek. 

The “fish window” — when in-water work may occur — for Ronald Bog is July 1 to September 30. 

Since work continued after September 30, the wall had to be left over the winter and spring. The sandbags will be removed once the fish window opens again.


 This is the plan being followed for the park.


Sound Transit My Nguyen reports that

Our crew is working on striping the parking lot and hydro-seeding the park which will take approximately three more weeks until it is completed. During this three weeks it will allow our team to assess if the park can be open to the public.  
The re-opening event will be postponed until it is deemed safe to gather in large groups by our state governor. An email alert will be sent out to our readers featuring a date of the event so community members can come enjoy the new amenities to the park.

Article updated 4-29-2020


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This can't end well: Eagles and ducklings

Saturday, April 25, 2020

Ronald Bog
Photo by Martin DeGrazia

By Diane Hettrick

There's a lot going on in this Ronald Bog photo by Martin DeGrazia. The two eagles are the ones in the previously published photo, landing in Ronald Bog. (see previous article).

In this photo they are sitting on one of the sandbag barriers put in place to prevent sediment from entering the lake during the park remodeling project.

The large black plastic bags outside and inside the barrier wall are also part of the project.

If you look closely, there are two mother ducks with large broods of ducklings swimming inside the barrier. One has a brood of 13 and the other has 7-9. The eagles are clearly interested.

I asked Martin what happened to the ducklings but he didn't stay to see. 

I did check in with Sound Transit for an update on the park.

Rebecca McAndrew, Sound Transit Senior Environmental Planner reported: 

Most of the work is finished at Ronald Bog. The contractor should be hydroseeding the lawn outside of the mitigation area this week. The ideal time to hydroseed is after March when there is no chance of frost. 
The three interpretive signs to be installed are almost done. I believe the parking lot will need to be restriped and there could be a few other minor things that need to be done before the park is reopened. 
The sandbag wall (also called a cofferdam) isolates the work area from the rest of the pond so sediment-laden water (stirred up while the contractor disturbs soil) doesn’t enter the main pond and flow downstream on the North Branch of Thornton Creek. 
The “fish window” — when in-water work may occur — for Ronald Bog is July 1 to September 30.  
Since work continued after September 30, the wall had to be left over the winter and spring. The sandbags will be removed once the fish window opens again.



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Eagle landing at Ronald Bog

Monday, April 20, 2020

Photo by Martin DeGrazia

This image of an eagle landing at Ronald Bog was captured by Bog Watcher Martin DeGrazia.




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Bog Watcher: Blue heron at Ronald Bog

Thursday, March 26, 2020

Photo by Martin DeGrazia

Blue heron at Ronald Bog, photographed by Bog Watcher and Otter Whisperer Martin DeGrazia.




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Rally for the Trees this Friday and Saturday in Shoreline

Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Trees on Dayton that would be removed
Photo by Jamie Holter
Residents of Shoreline are asking the City to amend its plans to remove more than 133 significant trees on Dayton Avenue North, N 155th St and N 160th St that are in the way of development.

The trees are slated for removal to make way for a redesigned, environmentally friendly Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) building that will also house the Department of Ecology, and for Right-of-Way (ROW) improvements by the City on the affected streets.

The ROW improvements include eight-foot-wide sidewalks, a five-foot amenity strip (for utilities and signage) and curbs. 

Representatives of the City and WSDOT attended a community meeting January 28 to discuss their plans.

The Save Shoreline Trees group reiterated that sidewalks can meander around trees and be composed of asphalt or gravel, both more environmentally friendly to tree roots than concrete. These materials are also ADA accessible, as is a three-foot rather than an eight-foot sidewalk.

Ronald Bog Park and Richmond Beach Saltwater Park in Shoreline have ADA-accessible gravel paths.

The City has received more than 300 emails, letters and postcards stating community concern for the trees. Some mentioned the irony of redesigning an environmentally friendly LEED building by the State, but an environmentally unfriendly removal of trees by the City. 

Because of public comment, the City has asked WSDOT to redo its designs and provide another arborist report for street improvements. Both the City and the State own land (and trees) in the affected areas.

To keep visibility on the trees, rallies will be held Friday, February 7, 2020 at 4pm. and Saturday, February 8, 2020 at 12 noon, along Dayton Avenue North, between N 155th St and N 160th St. 

Students at area middle schools and high schools have been invited to attend. Participants will hold signs alerting the public to the imminent removal of the 70- to 100-year-old trees: Douglas fir, Western white pines, and Western red cedars.

“Once these trees are gone, they are gone forever.” 

Email for more information



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Ronald Bog in January

Thursday, January 23, 2020

Photographed from N 175th. Note the rustic shelter background left
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


You will recall that Ronald Bog is undergoing extensive remodeling to plant trees and plants and create a healthy wetland.

Here's a slightly different angle, looking toward Meridian
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


It's a Sound Transit mitigation process in return for building the Lynnwood Link through the wetlands on 1st NE between the fire station on 155th and Aegis Living on 1st NE.

We published an extensive article on the plans for the Bog in September. (What's happening with Ronald Bog? Blame it on Mr. Bean). At that time the ground was being scraped and chunks of concrete were still being dug out of the ground.

Four months later, it's a dramatic difference.



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Meridian Park Neighborhood Assn to hear about Ronald Bog Tuesday

Tuesday, January 21, 2020



Meridian Park Neighborhood Update 1/21/20 on Ronald Bog Changes

Everyone is invited to attend the presentation and Q/A about the new construction, plantings, and reconfiguration of Ronald Bog Park.

Tuesday, January 21, 2020 in Room 301 at Shoreline City Hall 17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline 98133. Free parking in city garage. 7 - 8:30pm.

Light refreshments will be served.



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Photos: Mr. Otter finishes his meal - nom, nom nom

Thursday, December 26, 2019

Photo by Martin DeGrazia

Really chomping down, eyes closed, concentrating...

Photo by Martin DeGrazia

Taking a breath, making sure the human hasn't moved, ready to finish up the last bits...

Photo by Martin DeGrazia


The tailfin is the worst, keeps getting stuck on the roof of my mouth, but going to finish everything on my plate....

Photo by Martin DeGrazia

Just going to get the last bit down...

Photo by Martin DeGrazia

..a little water will help wash down the last bits and clean off my face and paws


Photos at Ronald Bog - Martin DeGrazia and the resident otter.




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Photo: Otter with mouth full

Sunday, December 22, 2019

Photo by Martin DeGrazia


This Ronald Bog otter is not even concerned about the proximity of the photographer - he just keeps munching on the fish he caught.

He either thinks the photog is a friend or figures he can take him in a fair fight, but he's calm, relaxed and chowing down on his fish.

Fresh water otters are apparently in every stream and body of water in the area, but they are normally very elusive and only people who live at water's edge ever get to see them.




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Photo: The otter's dinner

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Photo by Martin DeGrazia

This is a Ronald Bog otter, calming enjoying his / her dinner in spite of the camera held by Otter Whisperer Martin DeGrazia.

The otters and cormorants at Echo Lake appreciate the state of Washington for stocking the lake with trout but they don't stock Ronald Bog. 

However, there's enough fish to keep the otters happy.



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Wild creatures among us: Otters

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Otter at Ronald Bog
Photo by Martin De Grazia
By Diane Hettrick

A man I knew who worked in a building on Echo Lake told me a story years ago about being in the building at 5am and seeing animals he didn't recognize leaping and playing in the water. 

We took the story to the Echo Lake neighborhood association and after a lot of research, identified the creatures he saw as freshwater otters.

Then, people who lived around the lake started telling otter stories. It's apparently one of those things you know about if you live there. 

My favorite story was the young man who was fishing off one of the docks. He was catching a lot of fish and thought it would be a great idea to keep them in a basket and put the basket under water.

When he was done, he pulled up the basket - and it was empty. The otters were probably delighted with the bonanza.

A rare photo of an otter out of water
running along the shores of Ronald Bog
Adult males are 4 feet in length and weigh 20-28 pounds
Photo by Martin De Grazia
I have heard many other otter stories since. 

Martin De Grazia lives on Ronald Bog and sees otters there regularly. 

They are very elusive and I have few local photos, so I am pleased that he was able to get a number of photos and share them.

Otters live in burrows with underwater entrances or hidden dens near the water. They spend most of their time in the water, hunting for fish, and other water creatures, such as crayfish. 

They are a particular boon to Echo Lake, which has the dubious distinction of being home to a species of invasive crayfish.

Otter at Ronald Bog
Photo by Martin De Grazia
Otters are opportunistic, though, and will follow any good food source. 

George Piano of Lake Forest Park told a story about coming home to find an otter fishing in his koi pond. She ran off, but not before getting a few of his prize koi. 

A few days later, she was back, this time using his pond to teach her pup how to fish.

George's home in Lake Forest Park has a steep ravine behind his property, which drops down to McAleer Creek.

Otters playing in the waters of Twin Ponds
Photo by Debbie Arthur

I think it's safe to assume that every body of water and every stream in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park has otters. This week, I received a photo taken by Debbie Arthur of otters in Twin Ponds. Kevin Urie reports they are in Boeing Creek.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife says that "In late fall, the pups leave to establish their own territories. During this time, wandering youngsters are seen far from water, traveling on land between lakes, ponds, and from one stream drainage to another."

Otters at Ronald Bog
Photo by Martin De Grazia
This is a partial explanation for the stories about otters being seen traveling across the Kruckeberg Botanic Garden in the Richmond Beach neighborhood. 

Since there are no streams or bodies of water nearby, I am still curious about where they are coming from.

It's also interesting to think that, aside from the occasional fish pond, the otters are finding enough fish in the lakes, bogs, ponds, and streams, to sustain life and breed.

-----
This article was originally published January 11, 2016. Since then, Martin De Grazia has become the Otter Whisperer, apparently part of the otter clan. The otters stare at him but they don't hide and he is getting some amazing photos from Ronald Bog.




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