City answers questions about subarea rezoning

Sunday, February 8, 2015

From the City of Shoreline: Answers to frequently questions about station areas

Over the past year and a half, we have heard many points of view about the proposed zoning changes around the future light rail stations. Those views have ranged from people being excited about light rail and supportive of increased density, to those that want to keep the current single-family neighborhoods and character and not encourage development that is more intensive. In the end, the proposed changes will provide for both in Shoreline. Even with the proposed increase in density around the light rail stations, the vast majority of Shoreline will still be zoned detached single-family.

Below are answers to several questions that we hear often. For more discussion on property values and property taxes, you can go to Chapter 3 (pages 3-92 through 3-95) of the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the 185th Street Station Subarea. For more information in general, visit shorelinewa.gov/lightrail.

What will happen to my property values?

The impacts to land values for properties adjacent to light rail is a topic that has been researched extensively over the past two decades in conjunction with the construction of numerous light rail and heavy rail systems across the United States. The research has shown that property values generally increase, particularly when coupled with increases in zoning, for those properties within a half mile of a station. Some studies have even shown increased value for properties even a mile or 1.5 miles away.

This topic has commanded so much attention because many policymakers believe that light rail systems create a value premium, i.e. an increase in property values or related economic factors as a result of the increased access and desirability of the land served by light rail. The most thorough analysis conducted since 2000 found property value increases ranged from 6.4 to 40 percent.

In addition, research has shown that increases in allowable development through denser zoning, even in the absence of light rail, will almost always result in a higher land value, because a developer can build more units on the same site under the increase in allowed density.

Based on the research, and considering the range of outcomes from previous projects around the country, it would be reasonable to assume a potential property value increase ranging from five to ten percent for properties located within one-half mile of the new light rail stations in Shoreline. This would represent a one-time increase in values associated with a new transit station, and would capture the benefit of changes in zoning and other City implementation actions to encourage Transit Oriented Development (TOD) projects. This increased value may come closer in time to when the light rail stations open or depending on market demand some property owners may see some increase in value prior to this time.

Will my property taxes go up?

Because of constitutional and statutory limits on the amount property taxes can increase, such as the 1% limit, it is safe to assume that an increase in property values and assessed values will not automatically lead to an equivalent increase in property taxes. While increased density and proximity to light rail has the potential of increasing property values five to ten percent for properties located within one-half mile of the stations, the slow rate at which property taxes can increase most likely means that the property taxes on those properties will not increase at the same rate. In other words, an increase in property values does not result in a proportional increase in property taxes (e.g., a five percent increase in property value leading to a five percent increase in property taxes).

Will I be able to sell my home? Will people be able to obtain mortgages to purchase single-family homes in the up-zoned areas?

By increasing density around the light rail stations, the City believes, and research backs this up, that the land surrounding the stations areas will become more desirable. While some people would not like to live near light rail stations, others would. Investors understand this. Those wishing to move out of the area will most likely find willing buyers.

That being said, it will still depend on several different factors, including where your property is located, the condition of the property, whether it is possible to effectively redevelop the property, and the overall housing market in general. If the housing market is cold, selling your home could be difficult no matter where it is located.

The City has spoken with mortgage experts and bankers, and all of them have stated that the proposed zoning changes would not prevent someone from being able to obtain a mortgage to purchase a single-family home in the station areas if they wished. The concern arose because of previous discussions about single-family homes being non-conforming in some of the up-zoned areas. The mortgage providers have stated that one of the primary considerations when determining the type of financing a buyer can get is the economic life of the property. Usually, lenders look at the "current highest and best use" to determine the economic life of a property. What the neighborhood looks like is more important than the zoning. If the neighborhood is primarily detached single-family homes, then, regardless of the zoning, a qualified buyer should expect to get a conventional residential loan. If a significant part of the neighborhood has converted to multi-family buildings (such as in a higher density zoned area) then someone who wants to purchase a remaining detached single family home to use for that purpose may have to consider a shorter term loan or other financing mechanism. As it stands now, there aren't any proposals that would prevent someone in a single-family home from selling their home in the future and a qualified buyer obtaining financing for a single-family home.

The City has, and will continue to upon request, provide lending institutions with letters clarifying zoning regulations in the City. What this means is that if a bank is hesitate to lend to someone that wishes to purchase a single-family home in an up-zoned area, the City can provide the bank with a letter stating that the single–family home is a permitted use, or that non-conforming (grandfathered) regulations allow such a use or rebuild, or even expansion.

Why does the zoning around light rail need to be so intensive?

Just as perhaps the people living in the area during the first half of the last century looked at the proposed growth that came in the 50's, 60's, and 70's with trepidation, some current residents that have lived here for many years are unsure of what to expect with the changes that will be coming. Some wish the area would remain just as it is.

However, the population of the Puget Sound region has been growing and will continue to grow into the future. In 1990, the State Legislature adopted the Growth Management Act (GMA) to help address this population growth. The goal of the GMA is to keep growth to urban and developed areas and not let it sprawl into our valuable natural areas. As a result, already established urban areas will need to absorb the growth. That includes Shoreline.

Shoreline is a first tier suburb located within 25 miles of major job centers north, south, and east. With the addition of light rail, Shoreline will become an even more desirable place to live. The question the Council and the community have had to wrestle with is whether to allow the growth to occur haphazardly throughout the City, or to plan for it and focus it in those areas that make sense, such as around transit corridors.

The largest environmental threat we face today is climate change. Focusing growth around transit corridors will help the City meet its ambitious goals outlined in the City's Climate Action Plan by getting more people out of their cars and onto transit. Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Washington State. Allowing growth to occur throughout the City instead of concentrating it around transit-oriented developments will lead to more traffic and congestion, increasing Shoreline's greenhouse gas emissions instead of reducing them. The environmental benefits of denser, transit-oriented developments will most likely outweigh the environmental impacts. Many environmental groups that used to decry intensive urban development now realize that the more efficient use of land in urban areas is necessary in order to make significant strides in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Concentrating growth in certain areas will also help to increase the number of amenities serving those areas, such as shops, restaurants, and gathering places. These are the type of places that many Shoreline residents desire. Absent nodes of concentrated density, there is not a market to support these amenities. Investors are not going to invest in a market if it does not make economic sense. Increasing the density around light rail station areas will provide the people necessary to support more shops and restaurants.

Increased density will also lead to greater choices in housing. Shoreline has the second highest percentage of people 65 and older in King County at 15.2%. Those that live in detached single-family homes have few options if they wish to downsize and remain in Shoreline. Increased housing diversity will also provide opportunities for people that work in Shoreline but cannot afford to live here.

The region is growing. Shoreline is a first tier suburb and cannot realistically expect to be immune from that growth. Concentrating growth around transit hubs will allow the City to better plan for and serve the growing population, it will help reduce Shoreline's greenhouse gas emissions, it will increase the likelihood of more amenities coming to Shoreline, and it will allow for more housing choices over time.


Read more...

St Luke Rummage Sale to support missionaries to El Salvador

Saturday, February 7, 2015


St Luke Catholic Church in Shoreline will be sending 49 missionaries to El Salvador for a 10-day mission trip this year.

They are hosting a rummage sale to help raise funds for the trip. Find great bargains, help the environment, and support the church. 322 N 175th St, Shoreline 98133.

Saturday - Sunday, February 21-22.


Read more...

Scholarship Opportunity: City of Shoreline

Scholarship
Opportunity
City of Shoreline seeks applicants for AWC Center for Quality Communities Scholarship

The City of Shoreline is now accepting applications for the AWC Center for Quality Communities Scholarship fund. Scholarships are available through a statewide competitive process for students who are actively engaged in their city government and/or community and plan to attend post-secondary school in fall 2015. The City will nominate one of the applicants from Shoreline to compete with students from across the State.

Students interested in competing for the Center for Quality Communities scholarships must be:

  • Involved (or have been involved) with a city government and/or significant school leadership activity;
  • Eligible to graduate from high school, complete home school, or receive a GED in spring/summer 2015;
  • A City of Shoreline resident; and
  • Plan to continue education in the 2015-2016 academic year at an accredited college, community college, or trade school on a half-time or more basis.

Information and application materials can be obtained at shorelinewa.gov or cfqc.org. Completed applications are due no later than 5:00pm Friday, February 20. Submit completed materials to Communications Program Coordinator Eric Bratton.

The Center for Quality Communities promotes municipal leadership development and civic engagement. The Center’s goal is to develop a broad public understanding of the important role of cities and towns play in Washington. The Center is a 501(c)(3) organization.


Read more...

Planning Commission Public Hearing on Aurora Square Mar 19

Last Thursday, the Planning Commission held a special meeting, which included the Public Hearing on the Aurora Square Community Renewal Area DEIS and a presentation of the 145th Light Rail Station DEIS. It was discovered Friday morning that the audio recording of the meeting did not work. 

As a result the Planning Commission will have to hold a new public hearing on the Aurora Square Community Renewal Area DEIS, potentially scheduled for March 19. All parties that testified on January 29 will be notified. This will likely result in pushing out Council action on this item until April.



Read more...

North City Neighborhood hears about local crime and ways to prevent it

Officer Steve Perry talks crime trends
to a North City Neighborhood meeting.
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The room was packed for the Wednesday night meeting of the North City Neighborhood Association, for a presentation on local crime by Officer Steve Perry, Shoreline Police.

The main topics were
  • Local Crime Trends
  • How burglars target and enter homes
  • Strategies to defend yourself against crime
  • How to organize a Shoreline Watch group on your block
The standing room only crowd took advantage of the question and answer session at the end to ask questions about city services as well as crime and crime prevention. Neighborhoods and Public Outreach Coordinator Nora Smith was in attendance and able to answer specific question about the available city services, how to contact the city, and what could be done relative to signage and street lighting.

More information about the North City Neighborhood Association at their webpage and Facebook page.

Officer Perry is available to speak to other neighborhood groups.



Read more...

Valentine's Karaoke / Bingo on Friday night

Drawing for Sweetheart Basket
at Karaoke / Bingo Friday night

Hurry! Register on-line soon for the very special Karaoke/Bingo night at the Shoreline-LFP Senior Center on Friday, February 13!

During the rousing bingo games and joyful, sometimes hilarious singing, there will be a drawing for a Sweetheart Basket full of chocolates, red wine and more.

The evening is sponsored by the Park Ridge Care Center. If you are a Karaoke/Bingo regular and bring a friend you will receive a coupon for a very special dessert. Yummers!

On-line registrations can be made until the afternoon of Wednesday, February 11, after that, walk-ins on a space available basis are welcome.

Register online here. You will pay $6.00 to make your registration on-line and then pay $5.00 at the door for the BINGO packet as required by the Gambling Commission. Walk-in fee is $15 that includes admission and eight game packet; for those 21 and over.

The Shoreline-LFP Senior Center is located at the Shoreline Center, 18560- 1st AVE NE, in the southern-most building.; 206-365-1536.

“You don’t have to wait until Valentine’s Day to show someone how much they mean to you.”


Read more...

Betting on Boone: WSU freshman pitcher rides work ethic to Pullman

Sam Boone at Shorewood
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

The Daily Evergreen, the student newspaper of Washington State University in Pullman, recently published a long feature article on Shorewood graduate Sam Boone.

High school athletes are the essence of their culture - they follow flash, fan fair and popularity instead of their heart. When it came time to choose a university, Washington State freshman pitcher Sam Boone went against the grain. He followed his friend, WSU men’s basketball sophomore forward Josh Hawkinson, and his heart to the Palouse.
Boone sent an email to the WSU coaches during his junior year expressing an interest in being a Coug. Anyone can reach out to a school, but it means nothing without the college’s reciprocation of interest. Cougars pitching coach Gregg Swenson called Boone’s high school coach Wyatt Tonkin, in whom he already had strong trust. Tonkin raved about Boone’s abilities on and off the field.
That conversation got Boone in the door. His work ethic and love for the game did the rest. He grew up in Shoreline, Washington, and attended Shorewood High School. He had a lot to live up to and a drive to not let people down.
“I think a lot of it was because Shorewood had a lot of good athletes, good baseball players,” Boone said on the genesis of his strong work ethic. “A couple guys went to the pros and not wanting to disappoint them and work your hardest to get to where they are.”



Read more...

Data breach may affect Apple Health / Medicaid subscribers

From the Office of the Insurance Commissioner

Insurance giant Anthem today announced that up to 80 million consumers nationwide may be affected by a data breach of current and former customers’ names, social security numbers, contact information and birthdates. It does not appear that any health information was obtained.

Anthem has told the Insurance Commissioner that affected Washington consumers are largely enrolled in Apple Health, the state’s Medicaid program. Anthem does not have any indications at this time that Washington consumers who are enrolled in private, individual health insurance are affected by the breach.

Insurers are required to notify the Insurance Commissioner of security breaches that involve Washington consumers’ information. The Insurance Commissioner will remain in close contact with Anthem as more information is available. The Insurance Commissioner is also working with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners on this increasingly common occurrence.

Anthem has created a webpage for consumers to find information about the breach and set up a toll-free number for people with questions at 1-877-263-7995. Anthem will contact affected consumers and is offering free credit monitoring and identity protection to people who are affected. 


Read more...

Shorecrest girls' rally fizzles, Ed-Way wins 47-38

The Shorecrest girls basketball team had an upset on their mind in Friday's home game against Edmonds-Woodway, and for the first 29 minutes they played the 16-3 Warriors dead-even.

But with the game tied at 34-all with three minutes to play, the Warriors proved their mettle by outscoring the Scots 13-4 down the stretch, defeating Shorecrest by a 47-38 count.

Shorecrest held the Warriors well below their season average of 70 points, but they just couldn't muster enough offense against Ed-Way's pesky pressure defense.

Senior Natalie Kasper led all scorers with 20 points, including seven during that final stretch. Speedy junior Wurrie Njadoe tallied sixteen for the 10-9 Scots.

Edmonds-Woodway           5     11     16     15      47
Shorecrest                          13      4       8      13     38


Read more...

Letter to the Editor: Did you hear about the Planning Commission meeting Feb 5?

To the Editor:

Did you hear about the Planning Commission Hearing last night – Thursday, Feb. 5th? The Open House was from 6-7pm, followed by the Hearing from 7-9:15pm. There were about 80 concerned citizens there for the Hearing from 7-9:15pm.  The topic was the 145th Light Rail rezoning.

There were so many speakers signed up that they had to continue the meeting agenda until February 19th, the next scheduled Planning Commission meeting. The Planning Commission members were very polite and attentive to every one of the speakers and even let several go over their “allotted 3 minutes”.  We appreciated that.

The main topics that were discussed were to slow down the project and make it smaller. When both of these topics were brought up by speakers, about 90% of the room was in total agreement shown by raising their hands. Residents were passionate about their ideas, but no one was angry.

The Planning Commission was supposed to give their decision about the 145th Street Station EIS after last night’s meeting. However, that will not happen right away because of the meeting scheduled for February 19th. Therefore, their decision will not get to the City Council in time for the February 23rd City Council meeting. (This is the meeting where the City Council was going to try to cover both 145th and 185th Light Rail projects – not a good idea!) So, we are happy that we are already slowing down the process.

Important Meeting coming up! Please come to the City Council Meeting on February 9 at City Hall from 7-9pm. We would like to at least double the number of concerned citizens who come to this meeting. Let’s fill the lobby and the council meeting room.

Ginny Scantlebury
Shoreline


Read more...

Rat City Rollergirls play first home team season bout at The Nest, sell out venue


The Rat City Rollergirls (RCRG) will play their first home team season bout at The Rat’s Nest Sunday in the aftermath of game restructuring designed to improve the fan experience and the league’s longevity. Rat City is pleased to announce that the event sold out. Fans can still purchase tickets for upcoming bouts in Season 11.

"We are glad that people are excited about mixing it up,” said founding league member Clobberin’ Mame, aka Carmin Thomas of the Sockit Wenches. "I think the fans that are used to seeing us at the KeyArena will be pleasantly surprised with the games at The Rat’s Nest. It is a very intimate setting where you get to experience the action up close, much like the early days of the league."

RCRG opened the home team season at the KeyArena on Jan. 10 with two matchups—Sockit Wenches vs. Grave Danger and Throttle Rockets vs. Derby Liberation Front. Both bouts were close games with Grave Danger and Derby Liberation Front winning their respective matches, proving that the teams are more equally matched this year and you can’t afford to miss any more bouts. In today’s match, Derby Liberation Front, the winner of Season 10 championships, will take on Sockit Wenches, with Grave Danger playing against the Throttle Rockets.

“Grave Danger is pretty much a whole new team this season. The captains and coaches have brought on several new talented skaters that have tons of potential and a solid work ethic, “ said Dee Cap Attack, AKA Janelle Anderson of Grave Danger. 
“Because we are a new team we are putting our blood, sweat, and tears into our training this season. Everyone has really stepped up and is giving 110%. I think this is going to be one of our most exciting seasons yet. All of the home teams are very close in skill and experience, which makes for very close bouts. I can't wait to see what the season will bring for Danger and the rest of the league!”

Even though the bout today is sold out, RCRG fans still have plenty of opportunities to see the action this season. The Rat City Rollergirls will bout on Feb. 21, March 7, March 28 and April 11 at The Rat’s Nest, which is located at 19022 Aurora Avenue North, Shoreline, WA 98133. And for those fans who love seeing Rat City skaters take the track at the KeyArena— home team championships will be held there on April 25.

The Rat City Rollergirls (RCRG) is Seattle’s premiere all-female, flat-track roller derby league. RCRG is composed of about 80 active skaters and many more retired skaters who are still involved. The skaters are divided among four home teams, as well as the All Stars team and Rat Lab. It is Rat City’s mission to maintain a competitive athletic program, promote the sport of roller derby, provide quality sports entertainment for fans, and make a positive impact in the community.


Read more...

Total Experience Gospel Choir performs at Third Place Commons Valentine's Day Feb 14

Pastor Pat Wright
February 14 -  2 pm  
      "Total Experience Gospel Choir”  performance at Third Place Commons.
  
The director of the choir, Pastor Patrinell “Pat” Wright, was born in Carthage, Texas. She, and her seven siblings, were introduced to music early.

She directed her first choirs in her father’s church by age 14. After graduating from Turner High in Carthage as valedictorian, she attended college at Prairie View A / M, Texas.

Her music career is extensive. In 1973, she founded "Total Experience Gospel Choir”. They are well known and have performed in 38 states, on 5 continents, and in 22 countries. Members of the choir range in age from 7 - 72. They have received many awards and have seven recordings.

You can find them on You-Tube and Facebook for a preview. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear a joyous choir! Get there early to get a good seat.

Rotary Club of Lake Forest Park is a sponsor for this event.


Read more...

Concert of Music from the Nueva Canción Tradition of Latin America by Sin Fronteras

Friday, February 6, 2015

Sin Fronteras plays at Shorecrest Performing Arts Center

Northwest Heritage Resources is pleased to present a concert performance in partnership with the Shoreline – Lake Forest Park Arts Council, by the very talented traditional musical group, Sin Fronteras. The concert is scheduled for 7:00pm on Saturday, February, 28, 2015 at the Shorecrest Performing Arts Center, 15343 25th Ave NE in Shoreline.

At a time in the Pacific Northwest when there is growing involvement in arts and social justice, there has been renewed interest in the nueva canción (“new song”) movement from Latin America.

Seattle area trio Sin Fronteras (“without borders“), are highly skilled performers of this tradition and emigrated to the U.S. from Chile, Colombia, and Mexico.

They describe the music as having “vibrant rhythms, soulful melodies, and breathtaking harmonies – songs of life, humanity, and love.” The song lyrics alone are some of the most beautiful poetry in the Spanish language.

The roots of nueva canción are based in the rural folk music of Chile, and spread from there to Argentina, Spain, and other Latin countries. In support of the “common people”, the music made extensive use of traditional musical forms and instruments, such as the quena, zampoña, charango and cajón, and feature the guitar (from Chilean cueca). 
Sin Fronteras continues this tradition, adding the cuatro, Argentinian bombo (bass drum), and Venezuelan harp.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and youth under 18, and are available online at Brown Paper Tickets or by calling 206-417-4645.

This performance is funded in part by Northwest Heritage Resources, 4Culture, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Presented by Northwest Heritage Resources in partnership with Shoreline – Lake Forest Park Arts Council and the Ethnic Heritage Council.

For more information call 206-306-1181 or 206-417-4645, or email.

                         

Read more...

Sky Seminars this weekend: roses, fruit trees, and vegetables


Saturday, February 7th                  
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Roses:  How to Select, Grow, and Care For                          
Deborah Boyer

Join Debo Boyer, Sky Nursery’s rose buyer, for “Roses 101.”  She will be covering this year’s new introductions, her all-time personal favorites, and how to plant and maintain your rose bed.

Saturday, February 7th     
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Fruit Tree Selection and Care    
Charlie Shull –repeat of 1/17 seminar.

Sunday, February 8th                                                
1 pm – 2:30 pm
Bareroot and Beyond:  Perennial Vegetables and Small Fruits       
Emily Wilkins

From artichokes to wasabi, you can harvest your favorite farmer’s market treats from your own backyard!  Asparagus, rhubarb, horseradish, artichokes, berries… these edibles will repay proper planting with year after year of harvests.  Emily will discuss varieties for the Northwest, planting times and techniques, companion planting and year-round design ideas—and the best part of all, when and how to harvest! 

Sky Nursery 18528 Aurora Ave N. Shoreline, WA 98133 206-546-4851 



Read more...

Town & Country Markets honored by Washington State Wine Commission

Town and Country Markets - which includes Shoreline Central Market -  is in the company of such establishments as Willows Lodge, Canlis and Anthony’s — among those named Grand Award winners by Washington State Wine Commission (WSWC) for promoting Washington wine.

WSWC - a government agency funded almost entirely by the wine industry – was formed by the Legislature to raise awareness of this state’s wine industry. Restaurants, retailers, tourism professionals and distributors whose work raises the profile of Washington wines were honored at the group’s awards night last month.


Read more...

School Board Meeting Summary January 26, 2015

School Board Meeting Summary January 26, 2015
by Marianne Deal Stephens

The Consent Agenda of the January 26, 2015 School Board Meeting included:
  • approval of several change orders for the Shorecrest and Shorewood construction projects;
  • acceptance of $33,581 in gifts from the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation for Classroom Grants [financing projects in every school, ranging from a square dance to naturalist lessons to a Shakespeare workshop];
  • adoption of Resolution No. 2015-1, Temporary Waiver Request from High School Graduation Requirements [would give the district until 2021 to implement the new state-mandated requirements]; 
  • approval of extended field trips for Cascade K-8 8th graders to Fort Worden and Meridian Park 6th grade to Camp Orkila.

District Equity Committee Update
In 2014, the District created an Equity Committee to examine and improve racial equity in the Shoreline Schools. Deborah Northern from the Puget Sound Educational Service District (PSESD) is facilitating the committee, which is part of an expansion of a program originally impelemented in the Road Map Project region in South King County. 

The Shoreline District Equity Committee consists of 28 principals, teachers, parents, students, family advocates, counselors, district administrators, and a school board member. Currently, the group and the many staff throughout the district are working on an extensive Racial Equity Self-Inventory that will assess current district practices and identify barriers or gaps. The primary goal is to increase student academic achievement. Particular recommendations will be presented to the School Board in April. 

District Instructional Materials Committee (DIMIC) 
Director of Teaching and Learning Teri Poff briefly presented the latest DIMIC recommendation for a Document Based Questions (DBQ) Project for grades 6-12 Social Studies. The district plans to implement the DBQ Project this fall as a supplement to the core textbooks.

Enrollment Projections for 2015-16
Mark Spangenberg, Director of Finance and Business Services, presented projections for next school year. Overall, the district expects enrollment to increase by about +3%, or approximately 266 students, between 2014-15 and 2015-16. Enrollment declined 2009-2013, and began to increase in the 2013-14 school year. 

December 2014 General Fund Cash Flow Report
Director Mark Spangenberg updated the board on the state of the budget. No major items of interest. 

Referenced above:
  • The Puget Sound Educational Service District includes 35 school districts and more than 200 private schools in King and Pierce Counties and Bainbridge Island.
  • The Road Map Project is a community-wide effort that aims to improve education in South King County and South Seattle.
  • The DBQ Project uses primary and secondary sources to help students develop critical thinking skills. The project emphasizes reading, writing, and discussion and debate. 


Read more...

Barbara Luetke: In honor of my 65th birthday and semi-retirement...

45 years educating deaf or hard of hearing children

Do you have a relative or friend with hearing loss? I have dedicated my adult life (45 years!) to educating children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

I have trained over 350 teachers of the deaf, published seven books and over 100 published journal articles about deafness, and now, having just turned 65, am beginning the road to retirement from my current job as an administrator at Northwest School for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children, located right here in Shoreline!

This incredible school is the only one of its kind in the world— the gem in the Emerald City, as we like to say!

Nationally-referenced research has demonstrated that the NWSDHH students (from some 22 school districts around the Seattle area) have average or above speech, English language, and reading levels, and that more of our graduates (compared to the national average reported in a recent study) earn college degrees and are gainfully employed.

Barbara is dedicated to the school,
which needs a new playground
So, to celebrate my milestone birthday and dedication to deaf education, I am asking for your help. 

Let's improve the playground at Northwest School for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children, where 40 deserving children would like sound based toys and overhead protection from the rain.

All you have to do is go to the school website, and look to the right for the “donate” button. When you make a contribution you can note that you intend the money for the playground and would like a tax receipt.

Thanks for your support,
Barbara Luetke


Read more...

Puget Sound Blood Center is now Bloodworks Northwest


New name showcases comprehensive services provided throughout Northwest
by Tom Petersen

Puget Sound Blood Center (PSBC) is changing its name to Bloodworks Northwest. PSBC has merged or partnered with several other blood services in the greater Pacific Northwest, and serves hospitals far beyond the Puget Sound area, hence the more inclusive moniker.

Established in 1944, Puget Sound Blood Center was one of the nation’s first independent, non-profit community blood banks, and now serves nearly 90 hospitals in Washington, Oregon and Alaska.

“The name honors our roots while connecting us to the expanded role we play in patient care and biomedical research in the greater Northwest,” said BloodworksNW President and CEO Dr. James AuBuchon. 
“While the new name is a major change for us, our service to local patients and communities is the same as ever. “We’re still the place where donors come to support local patients and give back to the community —just like always. And we are still the source for lifesaving blood that local hospitals turn to.”

As always, donors are welcome at any one of the 12 donor centers.
The closest to Shoreline / Lake Forest Park are found in Lynnwood, at the corner of 196th and Aurora, and North Seattle, at Stone Way and 105th.

There are frequent community blood drives in Shoreline, including the Richmond Beach event on February 21, at the corner of Richmond Beach Road and 20th Ave NW.

Information about locations and times can be found at Bloodworks  (the old www.psbc.org address will work for another year, too). Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Appointments can be made online or by phone by calling 800-398-7888.


Read more...

Shoreline Council to select 145th Street preferred alternative for FEIS on March 2

DATE CHANGE: The Shoreline City Council will make their final decision on the preferred alternative to be studied in the 145th Street Station Subarea Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) on March 2, 2015.

Previously, this item had been scheduled for February 23. However, the Planning Commission has decided to take more time before making their recommendation, thus delaying the Council's decision-making process. The meeting on February 23 is still scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m.

For more information, visit the web page.


Read more...

Shoreline City Manager's report - week of 2/2/2015

Weekly Update for Week of 2/2/2015
By Debbie Tarry, Shoreline City Manager

January 26 Council Meeting
·         Regular Meeting
o   Follow-up Question from Affordable Housing Discussion
1.    Can Property Tax Exemptions (PTE) be used in conjunction with Transfer of Development Rights (TDR)(LCLIP)? The answer is yes. TDR as envisioned for the Catalyst Program (TDR instead of Affordable Housing) can’t be combined with at 12 year PTE, but could be combined with an 8 year PTE.

February 2 Council Meeting
·         Dinner Meeting
o   185th Planned Action Ordinance Adoption Process: Council discussed the adoption process for the 185th Station Area Planned Action Ordinance.
·         Regular Meeting
o   Proclamation of Black History Month: Council recognized the month of February as Black History Month. Student members of the Shorecrest BSU (Black Student Union) were present to receive the proclamation.
o   Execute a Contract with Ralph Anderson and Associates for a Classification and Compensation Study: Council authorized the City Manager to enter into a contract with Ralph Andersen for $50,000.
o   Discussion of the 2015-2017 Information Technology Strategic Plan
o   Discussion and Update of Lake Washington/Cedar/Sammamish Watershed (WRIA) 8 Projects: Council discussed the City's interaction with WRIA 8 and were given an update on the Salmon Recovery Council's current efforts. This was presented by Jason Mulvihill-Kuntz, WRIA 8 Watershed Coordinator.

February 9 Council Meeting
·         Dinner Meeting (5:45 p.m.): King County Councilmember Dembowski will be in attendance.

·         Regular Meeting (7:00 p.m.)

o   Adoption of Ordinance No. 704, Amendments to Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 3.01 - Fee Schedule: Proposed Ordinance No. 704 corrects some minor errors and omissions in the City’s adopted 2015 fee schedule. Council previously discussed Ordinance No. 704 on January 26, 2015.

o   Adoption of Ordinance No. 694: Proposed Ordinance No. 694, which would amend the City's Property Tax Exemption Program (PTE), was discussed by Council on January 26, 2015. Council subsequently directed staff to bring back proposed Ordinance No. 694 for adoption.

o   Discussion of the 185th Street Station Subarea Plan: Council will review ordinances that the Council will ultimately adopt as the185th Street Station Subarea Plan package:

1.    Ordinance No. 702:  Subarea Plan, Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map  - The Subarea Plan contains policy direction for future development of the 185th Street Station Subarea, including implementation strategies that will require additional work following adoption of the Plan. The Subarea Plan also amends the City’s Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map to include Station Area (SA) designations that implement the proposed zoning designations.

2.    Ordinance No. 706:  Development Code Amendment and Proposed Zoning Map.  This discussion will include a review of zoning and phasing options.
 
3.    Ordinance No. 707:  Planned Action - A Planned Action is a development project (in this case a development area) whose impacts have been addressed by an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) associated with a plan for a specific geographic area before individual projects are proposed. The Planned Action Ordinance includes the boundaries of the Planned Action and mitigation measures identified in the EIS.

January 29 Planning Commission Meeting
Last Thursday, the Planning Commission held a special meeting, which included the Public Hearing on the Aurora Square Community Renewal Area DEIS and a presentation of the 145th Light Rail Station DEIS. Unfortunately, it was discovered Friday morning that the audio recording of the meeting did not work. As a result the Planning Commission will have to hold a new public hearing on the Aurora Square Community Renewal Area DEIS, potentially scheduled for March 19. All parties that testified on January 29 will be notified. This will likely result in pushing out Council action on this item until April.

Point Wells
The City responded to Richmond Beach Advocates’ motion to intervene with the Growth Management Hearings Board case. The City’s response asks the Board to deny RBA’s motion to intervene.

145th Corridor
·         Mayor Winstead, Intergovernmental Relations Manager Scott MacColl, and I headed to Washington DC on Tuesday to meet with our federal delegation. Our primary focus is to make sure that our congressional delegation is prepared to be a key partner in helping secure funding for the 145th infrastructure project. We shared our 2015 Federal Policy Agenda memorandum.

·         State Transportation Package/145th St. Funding Update
o   Governor's proposal - As you may be aware, the Governor has presented his transportation proposal to the Legislature. In his proposal, he only designated specific large, statewide projects for direct funding and only left a (relatively) small amount of $350 million over 12 years for 'other high-priority projects across the state'. Funding that would be available to cities is mainly available through existing grant programs such as the Regional Mobility Grants and Complete Streets program, etc. There is a local options funding component, but Councilmembers would have to act locally to impose the funding options.

Tolling Questions Follow-Up from January 12, 2014
·         Provide the Council with timeline and costs related to adoption of impact fees and the adoption of the TBD ordinances and fees – as this may be a good indication of timeline/cost for tolling to move to a ballot measure.

o   In 2009, the City began to develop concurrency and impact fee regulations as part of the process to adopt and develop the Transportation Master Plan. The total cost for the contract to develop the concurrency and impact fee regulations was approximately $285,000. The sub consultant who prepared the ordinances, calculated the impact fee and prepared the rate study represented approximately $100,000 of that contract. The work included development of a traffic model to identify locations of future potential traffic problems and the projects needed to fix them. 


Many of the aspects of the work to develop concurrency and impact fee regulations and the development of the Transportation Master Plan were tied to one another. And, extracting only the costs associated with developing the ordinances, calculating the impact fee and preparing our rate study may not provide an accurate portrayal of the potential timeline and costs for developing a tolling package. Also, there are key differences between the development of concurrency and impact fee regulations and developing a tolling package. For example, concurrency and impact fee regulations, and the Transportation Master Plan do not require voter approval whereas a tolling package via the Shoreline Transportation Benefit District does. Further, there is a well-established path to development and adoption of concurrency and impact fee regulations and a Transportation Master Plan. Developing and implementing a tolling package does not have such a well-established path.

·         Does the ballot language for approving tolling have to include the geographic area in which the toll will be implemented? Or, can it simply state that tolling may be implemented in the City? Can ballot language be ‘not-so-specific’ about the location?
o   Per RCW 36.73.065, the proposition must include a specific description of (a) the transportation improvement or improvements proposed by the district; (b) any rebate program proposed to be established under 36.73.067; and (c) the proposed range of tolls imposed by the district to raise revenue to fund the improvement or improvements or rebate program. RCW 36.73.015(6) defines a transportation improvement as a “project contained in the transportation plan of [the city]”. Projects aren’t just roads but include the operation, preservation, and maintenance of the improvements. Thus, while a specific geographic area does not need to be defined, it does need to specifically describe the project – the transportation improvement(s) - that the toll is intended to address. In addition, the requirement to provide a range of tolls indicates a need to demonstrate that the toll is linked to the identified improvement and the TBD isn’t asking for more money than is necessary to achieve the project.

·         If voters approve tolling, are there any timing requirements for implementation? Would the authority to implement tolling expire after a certain time period?
o   RCW 36.73 does not set forth any timing requirements for implementation. But, since the toll is required to identify a project that is contained in the City’s TMP, there should probably be some alignment with that project’s implementation timeline in the TMP. It may be the authority to toll that is lost after a period of time or the toll-to-project cost may be lost. In addition, most propositions go before the voters because immediate action is wanted – even if that means the start of planning for a future action. If the decision is made to put a proposition on the ballot identifying projects and toll range, then the intent would be that tolling implementation and the projects are moving forward in a timely manner.

·         Does there have to be a relationship between the toll and the projects it is used for? I would feel queasy about tolling drivers for something out of which they would get no benefit.
o   See response above. RCW 36.73.065 does establish a relationship between the toll and the transportation improvement project that it is intended to address. And, of course, the drivers tolled would be the ones using the project so they are benefited.

This and That
      Thank-you letter from Superintendent Miner for the City’s response to the incident on Meridian Park Elementary's campus on January 7.
      Seattle City Light will begin charging Shoreline ratepayers for the Aurora Phase 3A project on April 1. This charge will represent about a 0.6% increase to Shoreline rates ($0.0005 per kWh). This charge will collect the $2.9 million in costs associated with the completed Aurora Phase 3A undergrounding project. It will be collected over 25 years.
      Seattle City Light will shut-off power to 490 residential customers and 11 businesses beginning at 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 15. The approximate geographical area is Aurora and N 192nd St. Notices were mailed to customers earlier this week.
      Letter regarding rate changes in the Local Hazardous Waste Management Program that will be effective April 1, 2015.
      Final 2014 jail costs were $2,285,064, approximately $239,000 more than was projected. Fortunately there were other budget savings to cover this cost (which had been anticipated), but still a large increase from previous years. Staff is reviewing projections for 2015, as the adopted budget is $1,600,000, while actual costs could be closer to $1,875,000 if 2014 year-end trends carry over to 2015.



Read more...

Global Affairs Center hosts panel of experts on genetically modified food

Global Affairs Center Director Larry Fuell,
Dr. Christina Owens from the Gates Foundation,
Dr. Toby Bradshaw from the UW and
Dr. Natalie DiNicola from Monsanto
Photo courtesy SCC

A stellar panel of experts gathered Thursday, Feb. 5, 2014 at Shoreline Community College to discuss one of the more hotly debated subjects of the day: Genetically modified food.

The panel included Toby Bradshaw, Ph.D., chair of the University of Washington Biology Department, Natalie DiNicola, Ph.D., Vice President of Sustainable Ag partnerships at Monsanto Co., and Christina Own, Ph.D., program officer in the Agricultural Development group at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The event was part of the ongoing Biotechnology Symposium hosted by the Shoreline’s Global Affairs Center. Center Director Prof. Larry Fuell served as moderator for the panel discussion.

After brief self-introductions and statements, the event was open to questions from the audience, which explored a broad range of issues and concerns regarding biotechnology and agriculture.


Read more...

Mudslide causes Sounder Northline cancellation

Weather forecasts are predicting landslides to follow the series of winter storms blowing in, and it looks like some slides aren't going to wait.

Northline Sounder service between Seattle and Everett was canceled Friday evening 2/6/15 due to a mudslide. With the weather forecast for more rain there will be an evaluation on Sunday to determine if service will resume on Monday. Monitor the webpage for updates to Sounder Northline prior to your commute.

Sound Transit will provide special buses with direct service to Northline Sounder stations. Riders may also take regularly scheduled bus service.


Read more...

Shoreline Police arrest burglary suspect after K9 tracks him to a backyard shed

On Thursday February 5, at 4:03am Shoreline officers responded to an alarm at a business in the 18300 block of Aurora Ave N.

The first officer arrived within a minute and noticed two individuals running from the location. A perimeter was set up and a Sheriff’s Office K9 deputy responded with his partner “Atilla” to do a track.

Witnesses called 911 to report a subject running through their yard, and officers were able to adjust the perimeter appropriately based on this information.

At 4:30 am one of the suspects was found by the K9 unit in the 18200 block of Stone Ave hiding in a back yard shed and taken into custody.

The suspect is 34 years old, from Seattle. He was booked into King County Jail for investigation of Burglary. Video surveillance from the store was used as confirmation on the suspect.

The suspect’s vehicle was found with stolen property near it and impounded for a search warrant. The investigation continues to try and identify the second suspect and determine if they were involved in additional crimes.

  

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